Book on Farming and the Burren Published by Teagasc
5 June, 2003
The Minister for Agriculture and Food, Mr. Joe Walsh, TD, officially launched a major new Teagasc publication on ‘Farming and the Burren’ in Cassidys, Carron, The Burren, Co. Clare today (Thursday, 5th June 2003).
The 100 page book is based on the results of a four-year Teagasc sponsored post-graduate research study in the Burren region. Written by Dr. Brendan Dunford the book investigates the evolution and significance of the relationship between the rich heritage of the Burren and the farming communities of the region.
This beautifully illustrated book traces agriculture in the Burren through the ages and describes the unique farming systems traditionally employed. The current situation of farming in the Burren is outlined and the implications of recent changes in farming systems for the future of the heritage are discussed.
Speaking at the launch of the publication, Dr. Brendan Dunford said “the Burren is an area internationally renowned for the extraordinary wealth of its natural and cultural heritage, however, the relationship between this heritage and the agricultural traditions that shaped and sustained it has never been fully acknowledged or appreciated”.
According to Dr. Dunford, “to protect what is an increasingly limited and valued resource we need to understand how it functions, particularly from and agricultural perspective. This book is an important start in helping to acknowledge the contribution of farming to the environment of the Burren”.
“Further research is needed to provide the key to new forms of sustainable agricultural systems in the Burren, which will help to protect this environment while also maintaining the long tradition of agricultural use that has defined the region” he said.
‘Farming and the Burren’ is available from the Publications Office, Teagasc, 19 Sandymount Avenue, Dublin 4; Phone (01) 6376021; email: publications@hq.teagasc.ie; Price €10.
