Innovation Farms
CAFRE is establishing a network of Innovation Farms throughout Northern Ireland. The Innovation Farm element is part of the Farming for Sustainability – Innovation Scheme and is funded by DAERA. This initiative aims to increase the rate of implementation of sustainable innovative practices on Northern Ireland farms. Groups of farmers will be invited to visit these farms and find out about the latest innovative practices in place.
It is the intention to appoint seven beef (including suckler and beef finishing) and seven dairy farms initially. Farms from other sectors will be appointed later this year. Farmers selected will be people who enjoy welcoming other farmers onto their farm and can tell their story of how they have introduced innovative sustainable practices into their businesses.
What is expected of the host farmer?
Host farmers will be expected to demonstrate to groups of visitors innovative practices which align with the aims of the Sustainable Agriculture Programme, namely sustainability, productivity, resilience, one health and an effective, functioning supply chain. In addition, host farms must participate in the CAFRE benchmarking programme. Each hosted visit is eligible for a payment of £786.