Rising oil prices has swung the spotlight onto bio-energy crops. Teagasc is to the forefront in Ireland in exploring the opportunities for farmers in becoming producers of alternative energy crops. 

At Agriculture and Food 06, the major Teagasc event of the year being held at Kildalton College on June 21, a range of alternative crops which have been grown for fuel will be on display on the day, accompanied by expert Teagasc advice. This is an opportunity to see these new crops and hear first hand the latest knowledge on this developing sector. The opportunities for individual farmers from crops such as oilseed rape, miscanthus, and willows will be explored on the day.

This bio-energy display will be just one part of a major tillage exhibition at this event. The latest news on wheat and barley varieties, fungicide trials and weed control strategies will also be featured. Visitors can get information on novel cereals such as naked and black oats.

Advise on growing and feeding the full range of forage crops such as cereal wholecrop, kale, rape, peas, beans, lupins and maize will be available. As the area under maize continues to increase, growers are searching for effective weed control programmes and alternative products to atrazine are being tested in Kildalton.

Teagasc Prepares for Agriculture and Food 06 at Kildalton College

Teagasc is hosting a major national event at Kildalton College this summer. This family event, entitled ‘Agriculture and Food 06’ will take place on midsummer’s day, June 21, at Kildalton College. Fundamental shifts are occurring across the whole agricultural sector. Now more than ever farm families need clear information on their options for the future. Agriculture and Food 06 is a key event in Teagasc’s campaign to provide clear direction and leadership on the wide range of challenges facing farm and rural communities, according to Donal Carey, Teagasc Director of Training and Development, who is chairing the event steering committee.

The major farm enterprises such as beef, dairying, sheep and tillage will be featured. Other key areas will include horticulture, forestry, horses, environmental issues, financial management, farm buildings/mechanisation, labour efficiency, financial management and farm health and safety. The emerging issues of biofuels, bioenergy and waste management will also be featured.

The event will focus on overall rural development options and small business opportunities that can generate additional income at farm level. A food-hall village will feature the range of foods being produced in rural areas and the whole area of personal health and lifestyle issues for rural dwellers will be highlighted.

A network of other national agencies and organisations together with industry trade exhibits will also feature.