Farm Walks 2026 - SEPTEMBER DATE/TIME TBC - Mariann Klay: Low-Input Stud Farming with Biodiversity at Its Core

THIS EVENT WILL TAKE PLACE IN SEPTEMBER 2026 - DATE/TIME TBC. SIGN UP TO THE MAILING LIST AND WE WILL NOTIFY YOU WHEN A DATE HAS BEEN SCHEDULED AND BOOKING FOR THE WALK IS OPEN.

Join this farm walk focusing on practical actions for nature with Farming for Nature Ambassador Mariann Klay: Low-Input Stud Farming with Biodiversity at Its Core. The Farming for Nature farm walks are an opportunity for FFN Ambassadors to showcase their contribution to nature and good farming practices on their land.

Mariann will walk through how she manages a thoroughbred stud farm using a low-input and nature-focused approach. The system is run at a low stocking density, with careful grazing management supported by cattle in summer and sheep in winter. You’ll see how multispecies grassland, hay and silage production and soil aeration all contribute to animal health and soil condition. The farm includes a wide range of habitats, from mature hedgerows to a well-established pond, wetland area and stream. These features support a high level of wildlife, including birds, mammals and insects. Mariann will also share how small, consistent changes have helped build biodiversity over time while maintaining a successful breeding enterprise.

WHAT ARE THE FARM WALKS:

• The exact location of the farm walk will be sent via email to ticket holders on the week of the walk (keep an eye on your email & your spam folder as sometimes the emails end up in spam).
• This will be a 2.5 hour (approx.) visit to the farm and will include a walk around with the farmer, a look at some of the habitats/species, as well as the livestock and/or crops. Feel free to engage with the farmer about how they manage the land in support of nature.
• These walks are for farmers and people with an interest in farming for nature. They are meant to be an interactive knowledge exchange. They are not suitable for children, or for people/groups looking for an ‘organised walk’ in the countryside.
• These walks are non-profit but a booking fee is necessary to minimise no-shows. It costs €12 to register and all funds are circulated back into the farming community.
• Please wear suitable footwear for uneven and potentially muddy conditions.
• Dogs are not welcome. You will be turned away if you arrive with one. We would ask that you please respect these farmers, their land and livestock when visiting. 
• Please arrive at least 10 minutes before the walk commences.

Thank you to the National Parks and Wildlife Service and the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine for supporting these farm walks.

For more info on FFN events, resources, programmes, go to: www.farmingfornature.ie