Renewable Energy

Global warming affects every aspect of farming and wildlife. Energy costs are rising, so alternative energy sources on-farm are imperative. There are also opportunities to be had for the farming industry.

FWAG in conjunction with Action Renewables (DETI funded) have been informing farmers about wind, solar, biomass, hydro, pv and ground source pump energy alternatives. Farmers have the scope and skills for the development, growing and building of many aspects of the renewable energy businesses and must look to diversify, and utilise their properties.

Grazing Animal Project

In a sense this is a case of “horses for courses”. With the Common Agricultural Policy reform there are unprecedented cases in England of livestock having to be brought in to manage specific habitats such as ASSIs and SACs. This is not yet such a problem in N.Ireland. There is a need however to manage many such precious habitats here and to apply the correct type of animal and pressure to prevent scrub encroachment. This habitat management benefits either flora or fauna or both, generally through the use of native or traditional livestock. More...

Cross Compliance

The Farming and Wildlife Advisory group in Northern Ireland recognise the need for Good Agricultural and Environmental Condition on every farm and try to assist whenever necessary to explain and encourage it’s delivery.

Nutrient Management

FWAG see this as an aspect of sustainable farming practise which has environmental benefits by targeting farm yard manure, slurry and artificial fertiliser to crop requirement.

Agri-Environment

A multi purpose aspect of farming, that benefits income, the farms biodiversity and can have a bearing on public perception of farming. FWAG see the benefits that the Countryside Management Scheme, for example has on the landscape as well as a growing interest among farmers to participate more willingly.

Local Food

We fully recognise that it is essential to improve our local food supply chain and to have it properly labelled. Imported food that is prepared and packaged in Northern Ireland should not be called “Produce of Northern Ireland”. The sustainability, food miles, traceability and animal welfare issues should all be recognised as well as the implications that retaining sale costs within our economy has for the rural society