Farm Walks 2026 - Thomas & Claire O'Connor: Diverse Food Production on an Organic Farm

Join this farm walk focusing on practical actions for nature with Farming for Nature Ambassador Thomas & Claire O'Connor: Diverse Food Production on an Organic Farm. 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.

Thomas and Claire will show how they run a small mixed organic farm supplying a wide range of food to their local shop. The system includes vegetables, poultry, livestock and perennial crops, all managed as part of an integrated whole. You’ll see how woodland, permaculture planting and biodiversity habitats fit alongside food production. The farm is located on marginal land, and they will explain how they have made it productive through careful management and diversity. There is a strong focus on soil health and the role of biology in supporting crop and animal performance. They will also discuss their direct-to-consumer model and links with the local community. This walk gives a clear picture of how a small farm can support both local food production and biodiversity.

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