Axis 2: Environment & Countryside

The second Axis of the RDP is directed at preserving and, where possible, enhancing the environment, biodiversity and the amenity value of the countryside. 80% of expenditure under the RDP comes within this Axis which provides for compensatory payments to farmers who farm in Less Favoured Areas, Natura 2000 payments in respect of designated Special Areas of Conservation/Special Protection Areas and agri-environment payments under the Rural Environmental Protection Scheme (REPS).

For more information see Irish Rural Development Programme 2007-20013

High nature value farming case studies in north Connemara and the Aran Islands

July 26, 2010
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Traditional extensive farming practices have helped to create the Irish landscape, as we know it today. Much of the natural and cultural heritage that we encounter in Ireland today is influenced by, or has evolved, in response to these interactions, such as our flower-rich grasslands, and our networks of stone walls. Maintaining that heritage relies on [...]

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SEAI launch Miscanthus Pilot Demonstration Programme

May 11, 2010
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The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland recently announced the launch of the Miscanthus Pilot Demonstration Programme which aims to support the establishment of a number of exemplar boiler sites.

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Organic Farming Scheme: A Viable Option

April 22, 2010
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The deadline for the Organic Farming Scheme is fast approaching with receipt of applications due in local AES (Agricultural and Environment Structures) offices before the 15th of May, 2010.

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Details of Agri-Environment Options Scheme Announced

March 30, 2010
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Today the Department of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries announced details of the new Agri-Environment Options Scheme (AEOS) and the Natura 2000 Scheme.

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Proceedings: Energy Crops Technical Information Day

March 26, 2010
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The proceedings from the Teagasc information day on energy crops,  held in Carlow on the 16th of February, are now available.

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Opportunities in Bioenergy

March 21, 2010
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The Bioenergy Scheme for 2010 offers establishment grants of up to €1,300 per hectare or 50% of the cost to farmers to plant Miscanthus and Willow. The closing date for submission applications for pre-planting is quickly approaching - Wednesday, 31st of March 2010.

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Area under organic farming increased by 7.4% between 2007 and 2008 in the EU-27

March 2, 2010

A recent Eurostat report shows that Organic farming in the EU27 covered 7.8 million hectares in 2008, up by 7% compared with 2007. Over a longer time period, the data available for the EU25 show an increase of 21% in the total organic area between 2005 and 2008.

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From the field to the furnace

February 16, 2010
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The large attendance by farmers at a Teagasc information day, held in Carlow on the 16th of February, on bioenergy crops shows that there are high levels of interest in the potential of this sector. With the cashflow pressures being felt by many in Agriculture, the recent launch of the new Bio-energy Scheme and the planting season [...]

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New Bioenergy Scheme for Willow and Miscanthus

February 9, 2010
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Brendan Smith TD, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, has announced the commencement of a new Bioenergy Scheme to grant aid the planting of willow and miscanthus crops over the period 2010 to 2012.

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UPDATE: REPS4 Traditional Farm Buildings

February 8, 2010

Thanks to all those who made contact with us yesterday regarding the broken link in our article “REPS4 Traditional Farm Buildings Grant Scheme 2010-2011“. The link has been fixed and the article can be viewed here.

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