Multi Species Sward Measure is launched as part of DAFM €12 million support package
Launching the measure, Minister McConalogue said: “As part of our response to the cost increases currently facing Irish farmers, I am delighted to launch this measure which will encourage the sowing of multi-species swards. Multi-species swards are proven to reduce our dependency on chemical nitrogen while maintaining forage output and I am very confident there will be strong farmer interest in this initiative.”
The Minister continued by saying, “I am particularly pleased with the co-operation we have received from our Independent Agri-retailers and Co-operatives who will play a vital role in the operation of the measure.”
Research has shown that multi-species swards can have a positive impact from a climate, biodiversity, and water quality perspective, as well as supporting improved livestock productive efficiency, while also reducing dependence on expensive chemical nitrogen. Subject to farmer uptake and seed availability, it is anticipated that the measure will establish approximately 12,000ha of Multi-Species Swards. The Measure will be delivered by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine in co-operation with participating Agri-retailers and Co-operatives throughout the country.
Minister of State Pippa Hackett, who has responsibility for Land Use and Biodiversity also strongly welcomed the measure. She said: “The roll out of this measure will off-set some of the costs of establishing a multi-species sward. This is a welcome development in what will undoubtedly be a challenging year for the farming sector. The use of multi-species swards can have a positive impact on emissions and water quality, as well as providing other environmental benefits such as enhanced biodiversity, particularly through pollinators feeding on the variety of flowering plants in multi-species swards”.
Minister Hackett concluded by saying: “Research on multi-species swards has also shown greater resilience to drought, while trials carried out in UCD have demonstrated improved anthelmintic properties around lamb production, which is an important element of our One Health Strategy. The different species in the mix will have a complementary impact at various stages of the growing season with the potential to enhance overall fodder production.”
Farmers wishing to apply for the Multi Species Swards Measure should apply through www.agfood.ie by the closing date of 4th April 2022.