Irish organics, innovation and farm collaboration: A pathway to farm viability and generational renewal
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Date
2021-12-22Author
Farrell, Maura
Murtagh, Aisling
Weir, Louise
Conway, Shane Francis
McDonagh, John
Mahon, Marie
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Farrell, Maura, Murtagh, Aisling, Weir, Louise, Conway, Shane Francis, McDonagh, John, & Mahon, Marie. (2022). Irish Organics, Innovation and Farm Collaboration: A Pathway to Farm Viability and Generational Renewal. Sustainability, 14(1), 93.
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Abstract
The family farm has been the pillar of rural society for decades, stabilising rural economies
and strengthening social and cultural traditions. Nonetheless, family farm numbers across Europe
are declining as farmers endeavour to overcome issues of climate change, viability, farm structural
change and intergenerational farm succession. Issues around farm viability and a lack of innovative
agricultural practices play a key role in succession decisions, preventing older farmers from passing
on the farm, and younger farmers from taking up the mantel. A multifunctional farming environment,
however, increasingly encourages family farms to embrace diversity and look towards innovative
and sustainable practices. Across the European Union, organic farming has always been a strong
diversification option, and although, historically, its progress was limited within an Irish context, its
popularity is growing. To examine the impact of organic farm diversification on issues facing the
Irish farm family, this paper draws on a qualitative case study with a group of Irish organic farmers
engaged in the Maximising Organic Production System (MOPS) EIP-AGRI Project. The case study
was constructed using a phased approach where each stage shaped the next. This started with a
desk-based analysis, then moving on to semi-structured interviews and a focus group, which were
then consolidated with a final feedback session. Data gathering occurred in mid to late 2020. Research
results reveal the uptake of innovative practices not only improve farm viability, but also encourage
the next generation of young farmers to commit to the family farm and consider farming long-term