In a thrilling reveal for the agricultural community, Laois dairy farmer David Fennelly and horticulturist Liagh Whelehan are set to present groundbreaking research at the prestigious 2024 Nuffield Ireland conference. This highly anticipated event, themed ‘Shaping the Future of Irish Agriculture,’ will unfold on Friday, November 15, at the luxurious Mount Wolseley Hotel in Carlow. The conference promises to be a hotspot for innovation and leadership in the agribusiness sector, featuring a captivating fireside chat with former Glanbia plc Group MD, Siobhán Talbot.
Fennelly's research, titled “Alternative pasture management to address the nitrates challenge at the root cause,” tackles the pressing issues facing the Irish dairy industry. His study emphasizes the urgent need to boost milk production while simultaneously protecting the environment. With innovative strategies involving alternative forages and enhanced pasture management, Fennelly's findings could revolutionize how farmers approach nitrogen loss and soil health. Key recommendations include expanding slurry storage, refining nutrient management, and integrating plantain into grassland mixes, positioning farmers for a sustainable future.
Innovations in Horticulture
Meanwhile, Whelehan's research on ‘Sustainable plant production in controlled environments’ dives deep into the future of horticulture. Her study addresses the challenges of sustainable practices in crop production amidst shifting policies, consumer demands, and climate change. With a focus on maximizing efficiency and profitability, Whelehan's findings advocate for optimized space usage, strategic crop selection, and a reduction in pesticide reliance. Her recommendations highlight the importance of precision in inputs and the adoption of innovative technologies, ensuring that the horticulture industry can thrive in a rapidly changing landscape.
Joining Fennelly and Whelehan at this year's conference are other notable figures, including Offaly's Margaret Edgill, who will unveil a blueprint for farm diversification through agri-food tourism, and agronomist Thomas Murray, who will explore the future of potato and vegetable production in Ireland. Kilkenny's Bryan Daniels will discuss the role of clover in Irish grassland agriculture, while Gillian Willis from Carlow will address the crucial topic of future-proofing people management in the agricultural sector. With such a dynamic lineup, the conference is poised to ignite discussions that could reshape the future of agriculture in Ireland.
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