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Steps to Take when Considering Converting to Organic Farming

Steps to Take when Considering Converting to Organic Farming

The Organic Farming Scheme is open. Elaine Leavy, Teagasc Organic Specialist gave a presentation recently at the IFA Information Meeting on the Organic Farming Scheme which was held virtually on Thursday, 4th March 2021. Elaine's presentation and Teagasc guide to organic conversion can be found here

The Organic Farming Scheme

The Organic Farming Scheme is currently open to applications from all sectors and is set to close on Friday, April 30, 2021. The Organic Farming Scheme is an agri-environment measure under the Department of Agriculture, Food & the Marine (DAFM) Rural Development Programme.

Farmers entering the scheme could qualify for yearly payments of up to €220 per hectare during the conversion period and up to €170 per hectare when they have achieved full organic status. Higher payment rates are available for organic horticulture and tillage farmers.

Priority access to this scheme will be given to those sectors for which most market demand exists, namely the dairy, horticulture and tillage sectors. However there is also provision being made in the selection process to encourage young farmers to convert to organic farming. In addition farmers who were not successful in gaining entry to the previous scheme but who have continued to farm organically, will have their commitment acknowledged, through priority access. Details on how to apply are given i n the step by step guide below

View Elaine's presentation below 
Steps to take when considering converting to Organic Farming (PDF)

View a step by step guide to organic conversion below 
Organic Farming - a step by step guide to conversion (March 2021) (PDF)

Teagasc provides training, advice and research for those involved in organic production, those considering converting to organic farming and the wider organic sector. Find out more about Organics at www.teagasc.ie/organics