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Fields Good: A new era for regenerative farming in Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland
DAERA
fibres
fibre production
food system
grazing
regenerative farming
soil health

Farmers were inspired and delighted by a day of knowledge sharing and lively discussions as Northern Ireland introduced its own version of popular events like Groundswell in England and Go Falkland in Scotland.

With the rising popularity of regenerative agriculture, events dedicated to this practice have grown in both size and significance. Northern Ireland has now joined the movement with its own 'regen ag' event, Fields Good, which drew farmers from across Ireland to the Antrim Glens under the glorious September sunshine.

The NFFN played a key role in the creation of Fields Good. NFFN NI Steering Group member and farmer Bronagh O'Kane is one of the event's two main organisers. Bronagh started the day on an upbeat note, emphasising that regen ag is far more than the trend it is still dismissed as. She described it as a philosophy with the potential to create a brighter future for farmers, consumers, and the planet alike.

Going green put me in the black.

Bronagh O'Kane

At Fields Good, the focus was on how regen ag can be applied across different farming systems, offering visitors practical tips to take home.

Soil health was a key theme. Consultant Niels Corfield led a hands-on session where participants examined soil structure. The festival showed how better soil health leads to more profitable farms by reducing expensive inputs and improving crop and livestock quality. As Bronagh stated: "Going green put me in the black."

Another highlight of the event was American rancher Greg Judy, a leading figure and influencer in regenerative farming, who shared how his system keeps cattle outside year-round.

The NFFN had a strong presence, with farmers and supporters sharing information about nature-friendly farming, participating in panels or sessions, or simply mingling with the many visitors. Bronagh's fellow steering group member, Charlie Cole of Broughgammon Farm, prepared nature-friendly meals over an open fire.

Steering group vice chair Helen Keys took part in a panel titled 'Fibres of the Future', where she discussed her flax farming. Finally, this year's Farming for Nature Ambassadors were introduced during a panel discussion.

All in all, Bronagh and her co-organiser Claire Saunders deserve immense credit for creating an event that will hopefully become a popular annual fixture on Northern Ireland's farming calendar.