Organic Schemes: new organic farming scheme opens February 2022

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐎𝐫𝐠𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐜 𝐅𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐧 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝟗𝐭𝐡 𝐨𝐟 𝐅𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟐.

There are two changes to this years scheme:

1) Maximum area at a full rate of payment will increase from 60ha to 70ha. 2) Once farmers meet the ANC stocking rate of 0.15LU/ha, the land is eligible for payment, previously there was a requirement to have a stocking rate of 0.5LU/ha. These changes also apply to those who are already participating in the scheme. How to Qualify: - Produce livestock and crops according to EU organic standards - Complete an approved training course - Farm and manage the land included in the application - Register with, and be approved as, an organic operator by a private inspection body - Have a minimum farm area of 3 hectares - except for horticultural producers where the minimum farm area is 1 hectare. The Organic Farming Scheme is an agri-environment measure. Farmers entering the OFS could qualify for payments of up to €220/ha during the conversion period and up to €170/ha when they have achieved full organic status. Higher payment rates are available for organic horticultural and tillage farmers. If you are interested in getting involved in Organic Farming or finding out more information - get in contact! Call: 085 839 1019 Email: atempleagriconsultancy@gmail.com

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