We would like to introduce our honorary Ambassador for April, Donna Mullen from Tyerworker in Co.Meath. We are delighted to include Donna in our network of Farming For Nature Ambassadors. These individuals have been chosen in acknowledgement of their long-standing commitment and contribution to farming for nature on their land and in their community
Donna and her husband brought their 43-acre farm twenty years ago. It initially comprised of three large fields of intensive grassland with little plant or animal diversity. Through their work and dedication, it has been transformed into a nature reserve. They have planted 7 ½ acres of bird seed crop – oats, linseed and kale. There are now twenty-two species of birds on the farm, including species new to the farm: buzzards, mallard ducks, jays, woodcock and grasshopper warblers. 15 acres of woodland was added to increase species diversity. Two orchards of heritage Irish apple trees were planted as was an acre of wildflower meadow for pollinators. Over the last six years 1km of hedgerow has been planted. Hedgehogs were reintroduced last year and pine martins were recorded on the farm for the first time last year. A lake was created to encourage newts. Over 50 bat boxes are located on the farm. What Donna and her family are doing on their farm is easily replicable, providing diverse habitats to encourage diverse species. Donna was nominated in 2019 and given the role of honorary ambassador in April 2020. More information on Donna’s farm and a podcast can be listened to here.
[Due to Covid 19 restrictions her plaque will be delivered to her in due course]
