Is Organic Farming the Option for you?

The Irish organic sector has experienced a large influx of new farmers in recent years, with over 5,000 farmers now farming organically - including just over 1,050 who 
entered conversion in January 2024. A major factor distinguishing organic farming from other approaches to sustainable farming is the existence of internationally acknowledged standards and certification procedures. A two-year conversion period is required before a farm is given organic status. Organic farming can be a profitable system of farming by maintaining good output levels through the adaption of organic farming production methods, coupled with lower production costs and premium market prices contribute to higher margins.

Step 1 - Consider

Is Organics an Option?

If you can answer yes to some or all of these questions then you should consider switching to organic production.

Animal Systems

1. Is your current stocking rate below 2 livestock units per Ha?
2. Can your housing be modified to incorporate a bedded lying area?
3. Are you in another agri-environmental scheme? Some scheme options may not be eligible for the Organic Farming Scheme (OFS) payment

Crop Systems

1. Can you incorporate a grass/ clover break in your rotation?
2. Do you have a source of farmyard manure/slurry on or near your own farm
3. Can you see yourself farming without relying on pesticides and chemical fertilisers?

Step 2 - Investigate

1. Get acquainted with the adjustments required by talking to other organic farmers and contacting a local advisor.
2. Familiarise yourself with the Organic Standards

Step 3 - Choose an Organic Certification Body

The Organic Certification Bodies (OCBs) provide an inspection and certification service for all Organic Production Units in Ireland. They have been designated and are regulated by the Organic Unit of the Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine, and are responsible for upholding the organic standards as defined by the EU. The OCB sends an information pack on request. Further information including a guide for completing the application and the conversion plan can be sourced from these certification bodies:

IOA (Irish Organic Association), Golden Island, Athlone, Co. Westmeath.
Tel: 090 6433680 | Email: info@irishoa.ie | Web: www.irishorganicassociation.ie

Organic Trust, Naas Town Centre, Dublin Road, Naas, Co. Kildare
Tel: 045 882377 | Email: info@organictrust.ie | Web: www.organictrust.ie

Step 4 - Apply to join the Organic Farming Scheme (OFS)

Having registered as an organic operator with an OCB, you may then apply to the 
Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine to join the Organic Farming Scheme (OFS). 
This requires 2 separate online applications:

1. Submit separate Organic Farming Scheme (OFS) application ONLINE
2. Choose “in-conversion” or “organic” land parcels on BISS (Basic Income Support for  Sustainability) application ONLINE. 

Organic Farming Scheme (OFS)

• Area based payment
• Minimum organic farm area required is 3 hectares  (1 hectare for horticultural producers)
• Minimum Stocking Rate = 0.1 LU/Ha & Maximum = 170kgs Organic N/Ha

Organic Capital Investment Scheme (OCIS)

• Rate of aid of 60% on investments up to a ceiling of €90,000 for  Organic farmers, irrespective of age or educational qualifications. 

Organic Processing Investment Scheme (OPIGS)

• Funding for processors who wish to invest in developing facilities for the processing, preparation, grading, packing and storage of organic products
• Grant Aid is payable at 60% of the eligible cost for projects above 
   €3,000 (excluding VAT).

Step 5 - Complete an Approved Training Course

An approved ‘Organic Farming Principles’ course must be completed as part of the Organic Farming Scheme requirements.  Get more information and booking details on 25 hour Organic Farming Principles Course 

Summary - Steps to becoming an Organic Farmer

• Eliminate pesticides & chemical fertilisers
• Choose an Organic Certification Body & Register as an Organic operator
• Apply to join the Organic Farming Scheme
• Complete an Approved Training Course
• Complete the two year Conversion Period