West Cork farm shortlisted for Teagasc Farm Forestry Award

Two Cork farm and woodland owners have been shortlisted for this year’s RDS Forestry Awards.

The awards, taking place on April 10 at the RDS in Dublin, reward farmers and woodland owners who have adopted climate-smart agricultural practices.

These practices include sound commercial management, environmental protection, and biodiversity.

Rosscarbery natives Willie and Avril Allshire have been shortlisted for the Teagasc Farm Forestry Award, which promotes the sustainable contribution of forestry and acknowledges the farmer’s role in managing the forest and promoting tree planting.

Artisan 

The Allshire’s mixed farm contains the oldest Irish herd of free-range outdoor pigs and a meat-processing unit for their artisan business.

Theirs is one of three farms that are involved in the West Cork Farm Tours and it is also the site for the fledgling wellness business, Forest Bathing West Cork and Cork.

The awards will take place as part of the ‘Finding Common Ground’ festival, which extends over two days, and is being delivered as one of the RDS Foundation social-impact programmes.

It will bring together scientists, researchers, policymakers, industry professionals, practitioners, advocates and RDS to explore how Ireland can harness the benefits of natural resources and the circular economy to create awareness, education and identification of solutions.

Talks

A series of talks and discussions will take place on the day, with a focus on the latest advancements and challenges in areas such as land use, forestry and the bioeconomy.

The broad programme will also explore topics such as decarbonising construction, how to use the arts to engage with environmental societal change and primary science education.

The full programme for the event will be announced in mid-March.