Guidelines for Organic Farming

What is Organic Farming?

Organic farming is a system of farming which avoids the use of soluble fertilisers, pesticides, growth regulators, feed additives and other chemicals. The organic farmer relies on the use of crop rotations, animal manure, clover, low stocking rates and good animal husbandry for producing outputs. The natural immunity of plants and animals are used to combat disease whenever possible.

The organic tillage farmer and vegetable grower aim to have a high level of organic matter and a high level of biological life in the soil. As “quick fix” solutions are no longer an option, excellent husbandry skills are required.

Guidelines

There are guidelines or rules which must be followed for organic farming. These are specified in a document called ‘The Standards for Organic Food and Farming in Ireland’. These standards have been developed by organic associations and have recognition in EU law (Regulation EEC No.2092/91 and 1840/99). A copy of these standards is available for a fee from any of the three organic certification bodies (OCB’s); the Irish Organic Farmers and Growers Association (IOFGA), Organic Trust or Demeter Standards. The aim of these standards is to develop a system of farming that co-exists with nature, sustains soil fertility and protects the environment, wildlife and non-renewable resources.

Farmers considering the organic option should examine the standards relating to their farming enterprises in detail and discuss the options with an agricultural adviser. The standards will give farmers an indication of the practices on the farm which do or do not meet the organic regulations.

To avail of the price premiums and financial supports for organic produce, a farmer must have his farm certified by one of the OCB’s and must practice farming in accordance with organic standards. Some of the main requirements of these standards are outlined below.

The Standards for Organic Food and Farming in Ireland

• A two-year conversion period is required before a farm is given organic status.
• Soluble mineral fertilisers are prohibited, but some fertilisers are permitted, such as lime and rock phosphate.
• Clover and other legumes supply nitrogen. The balance between fertility building crops, such as grass, clover lea and exploitative crops such as cereals and potatoes is critical in a tillage rotation.
• Most manufactured agro-chemicals (e.g. weedkillers) are prohibited.
• Ruminant livestock must be fed a diet which is at least 60% roughage. The livestock diet should consist mainly of organically produced foods. Tillage crops should be considered on organic farms as it may be cheaper to grow than to buy in concentrates. Cereals also produce straw for bedding and an opportunity to re-seed ground to a clover lea.
• The highest standards of animal welfare are required. Housed animals must be provided with bedding. Good ventilation and a generous floor area for each animal are required.
• Routine preventative treatment of healthy animals is not allowed. The emphasis is on prevention rather than cure. Obviously, sick animals must be treated and treatment is also allowed in the case of a known farm problem (permission is required in this case).

Applying the standards

Before considering the organic farming option, farmers should examine the organic standards to see if they agree with them and if it would be possible to implement them on the farm. While the organic standards may appear difficult at first glance, there are many farms that could change to organic production without much difficulty. Mixed farms with suckler cows, sheep and some tillage are ideally suited to organic farming.

The most vital part of a successful organic farm is the farmer. He or she will need excellent livestock and crop husbandry skills, have good foresight and planning ability, keep good records and successfully market the farm’s produce. A tall order by anyone’s standards!

Getting information

Information on organic farming is obtainable from any of the OCB’s. It is advisable for farmers to visit organic farms in their area first, to learn from other farmers experiences and to see the changes that had to be made to convert to organic farming. Details of organic farms to visit can be obtained from the OCB’s or the Teagasc organic adviser. Short courses in organic farming are provided by Teagasc, the organic centre in Leitrim and An tIonad Glas in Co. Limerick.

Relevant Organisations