Burren farmer get ‘green’ training
The BFCP is a three- year agri-environment scheme for Burren farmers, based on findings from the BurrenLIFE research project. It aims to deliver improvements in the condition of habitats and monuments, and in water quality.
Key innovative aspects include the high level of farmer input, the simplicity of farm plans, and rewarding farmers for the quality of their species rich grassland.
Payments are based on work done and results achieved under three complementary measures include:
- Production of species rich grassland
- Farm enhancement works
- Protection of SAC’s (Special Areas of Conservation).
Payments are issued by the Department of Agriculture. Currently farmers who are part of the scheme are in their second year of the three year scheme. There are 143 farmers involved with over €1 million available per year.
The first of the training programmes for year two farmers took place this week in the Burren Outdoor Education Centre in Bellharbour. It was rolled out by the BurrenLIFE project team who are based in Carran. As part of the training there were participating farm visits held later on in the week
