Teagasc is now accepting registrations for its organic training courses. The 25-hour level 5 QQI organic farming principles course will give participants the essential skills and knowledge to meet organic standards.

Tipperary farmer Pat Maher has outlined his experience of taking part in the course: "For me, going organic was a lifestyle change, not a retirement option.

"It’s important to do the course in time as I found there was a lot to learn.

"The specifications for organic take time to sink in, so I found the course very useful to clarify what’s required in order to comply with the organic standards, it makes the transition smoother as I was more familiar with the organic requirements,” he added.

The course aims to equip participants with the knowledge, skill and competence to apply organic farming principles to the production of organic produce, as well as to meet market requirements and approved organic standards in compliance with EU and Irish legislation.

Organic farmer Liz Hendy said: "The course was delivered through a combination of online, in-person classroom and farm visits. It is a compact course that offers a great insight into organic farming and what is required of you as an organic farmer.

"The classroom aspect of the course allowed for great interaction and discussion among the group. 

"The farm visits allowed the opportunity to meet with organic farmers and hear about their experiences and rational for entering the organic farming scheme," she added.

Hendy praised the course for its accessibility, which is open to all levels and sees every individual catered for no matter their academic ability.

She said: "I felt fully supported throughout the course, in the knowledge that my organic advisor was always at the end of the phone to offer advice and knowledge in any aspect of organic farming.

"My biggest take way from the course has been how much other organic farmers are willing to share their experiences with you, good and bad, and solutions they have found when problems have been encountered.  

The course combines online classes with in-person farm visits for a practical learning experience.

The training course consists of three online session days which run from 10:00a.m to 1:00p.m, followed by two in-person days at a Teagasc office and farm visit which run from 9:30a.m to 1:00p.m.

On successful completion of the organic training course, participants will be able to:

Outline the origin and development of the organic movement including the diversity or organic approaches and the range of certifying bodies;
Explain the principles of organic production;
Outline the procedures involved in converting from a non-organic to an organic production system;
Describe organic soil fertility practices;
Outline general standards for organic production;
Describe weed, pest, and disease control in organic crops;
Plan a production programme to organic standards in accordance with conversion principles;
Complete the documentation required for conversion to an organic production system;
Describe soil amelioration techniques with organic production;
Manage a crop using organic principles;
Outline the key aspects of an organic production plan;
Assess the economic viability and market opportunities for organic production including EU and national supports.

Places for the organic training courses are filling up fast, with the following course dates remaining:

Gorey, Co. Wexford on March 4, 5, 11, 12, and 19;
Clonmel, Co. Tipperary on March 4, 5, 11, 12, and 19;
Castlerea, Co. Roscommon on May 20, 22, 27, 29, and 30;
Macroom, Co. Cork on May 20, 22, 27, 29, and 30;
Tuam, Co. Galway on May 20, 22, 27, 29 and 30;
Portlaoise, Co. Laois on May 20, 22, 27, 29, and 30.