The 2023 National Farming for Nature (FFN) Ambassador Awards was held in Gort Co. Galway on Saturday 28th October as part of the annual Burren Winterage Weekend. Now in its sixth year, FFN welcomed 10 wonderful new ambassadors into the network this year. This day was a celebration of the inspiring work being done by so many farmers across the country.
“This year’s Ambassadors operate equine, beef, forestry, horticulture, sheep, goats, dairy and tillage systems and work with a range of valuable habitats including species-rich grasslands and heaths, wetlands, woodlands, uplands, hedgerows and more. These Ambassadors are not only managing farming systems that are agriculturally progressive, ecologically sound and economically viable, but they are also actively engaged in sharing their work, stories and practical knowledge with their community” said Lucy Bowler, FFN programme officer.
This years FFN Ambassadors are:
- Bláthnaid Gallagher – Sheep farmer, Co. Galway. More information on Blátnaid’s farm here.
- Bruce Thompson – Dairy farmer, Co. Laois. More information on Bruce’s farm here.
- David Kerr – Dairy farmer, Co. Laois. More information on David’s farm here.
- Diana & Pen Pickersgill – Mixed stock & forestry farmer, Co. Westmeath. More information on Diana’s farm here.
- James Gilmartin – Mixed stock farmers, Co. Leitrim. More information on James’ farm here.
- Justina and Liam Gavin (Drumanilra Farm) – Mixed stock & horticulture, Co. Roscommon. More information on Justina & Liam’s farm here.
- Lisa Gifford – Goat farmer, Co. Leitrim. More information on Lisa’s farm here.
- Marianne Klay – Equine farmer, Co. Kildare. More information on Mariann’s farm here.
- Michael Keegan (Luggala Estate) – Nature restoration, Co. Wicklow. More information on Michael’s farm here.
- Tom Tierney – Tillage farmer, Co. Kildare. More information on Tom’s farm here.
FFN will feature each of these farmers in detail over the coming months, giving people the opportunity to hear their stories and learn about the different ways they are working to support nature on their land. Keep an eye on FFN’s social media platforms/website to access farm videos, podcasts and other educational resources featuring these 2023 Ambassadors.
The National Farming for Nature Ambassador Awards is sponsored by Bord Bia and supported by a wide range of farming and conservation interests including the Dept of Agriculture, Food and the Marine and the National Parks and Wildlife Service.
