Over 50,000 tonnes of organic feed needed next winter
There's been a boom in organic farming, with the number of organic farmers doubling to 4,000 in 2023, and an additional 1,000 farmers signing up for the Organic Farming Scheme in 2024.
This growth means that, by 2024, organic farms will cover 5% of all farm land, aiming to hit 10% by 2030, in line with Ireland's goals for climate action.
A recent survey, carried out by The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, focusing on the organic feed needs for the winter of 2024/25, recieved over 900 responses from organic farmers. The survey aimed to gauge the demand for organic concentrate feeds, straight feeds, and forage, in light of over 1,000 new farmers joining the Organic Farming Scheme in 2024.
It is estimated that overall demand for concentrates will be in the region of 33,000 tonnes. Demand could be in the region of 20,000 tonnes for straights, 6,000 tonnes for protein crops (such as a pea/barley mix), and for 50,000 bales of silage and hay, and 5,000 bales wholecrop.
The survey, reflecting a 25% participation rate from the organic farming community, revealed that 40% of respondents have achieved full organic status, with the remaining 60% in the process of conversion. The majority are involved in beef and sheep farming, with a smaller portion engaged in tillage, poultry, and dairy.
The data indicates a significant demand for various types of feed, including over 1,100 tonnes of grain pea mix and demands for organic oats and barley across all regions. This highlights the potential for expanding organic crop farming in Ireland presenting a significant opportunity for farmers.