Laois brewery will host inaugural ‘farm for nature’ festival
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STRADBALLY’S Ballykilcavan Farm and Brewery will host the inaugural Farming for Nature Festival (FFN) on 22-23 June. The farmer-led event will celebrate practical, nature-friendly farming.
Running from 9.30am to 10.30pm on both days, the festival offers hands-on learning for farmers across all stages of their sustainable farming journey, from seasoned veterans to first-time farmers.
Event organiser Lydia Lishman said: “The focus will be on real stories from farmers â the successes and the challenges – and show how good food begins with good farming. By involving a wide network of partners, we want to inspire change and grow the movement of farmers and producers working with nature.” Farming for Nature is a national farmer network established by Burrenbeo Trust, a charity that aims to create greater appreciation for the Burren landscape. BASE Ireland and the National Organic Training Skillnet have also contributed to the festival’s programme.
BASE Ireland chairman Rob Coleman said the festival promises to be a “unique opportunity”, where attendees can see a wide range of innovative farming practices.
“There really will be something for everyone, no matter how they currently farm,” Mr Coleman said. “We want to meet farmers where they are; whether that’s organic, fully conventional or somewhere in between. Our aim is simply to share real experiences and, hopefully, give people a few ideas they might bring home and try for themselves,” he added.
Before the festival kicks off, there will be a special summer solstice-inspired evening dinner, where there will be a celebration of food, music and culture, as well as a special keynote speaker.
The Farming for Nature Festival is supported by Shared Island Civic Society Fund, Lifes 2 Good Foundation, National Parks and Wildlife Service and the Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine.
Further event details, including ticket information and accommodation, are all available on the website www.farmingfornaturefestival.ie.
