South Kildare farmer, Colm Flynn is witnessing the revival of something many others have long overlooked – the life contained within the soil beneath his feet.

Farming 90ha of mixed tillage and grassland, Colm Flynn had long been concerned about soil health. The defining moment, however, came years ago when he noticed a distinct lack of company when ploughing.

“I realised the crows no longer followed the plough and I said what’s wrong and it was basically there was no earthworms left in the soil,” he explained before outlining the actions he’s undertaken to bring about a soil revival.

Years of on-farm trials followed, all with the aim of rehabilitating the soil. Grass leys were introduced, livestock were carried, and the establishment system was changed. But not everything went to plan.

Now, after years of learning what works and what doesn’t, Colm Flynn is starting to see progress.

“What we’ve seen since is the development of soil structure, porosity, crumb, and the microbiome,” he explained. “It’s unusual to see in continuous tillage land – land that’s been tilled for hundreds of years – earthworms so freely available in a small piece of clay. They were practically extinct on this farm eight years ago.”

For further insights, watch the video below:

Soil Health Week 2025

This week marks Soil Health Week, a dedicated weeklong initiative designed to support and inspire farmers, students and the general public with the latest insights, innovations, and practical guidance on soil health. From informative podcasts and live “Ask the Expert” webinar, to farm walks, expert-led lectures, and engaging talks, the week offers a packed schedule aimed at deepening understanding and sparking conversation around sustainable soil management.

To add to the excitement, we’re also hosting a Soil in Focus Photo Competition, inviting farmers and enthusiasts to capture the complexity and life of soil in action, with fantastic prizes up for grabs. Whether you’re a seasoned grower or just curious about soil health, there’s something for everyone.

Find out more about Soil Health Week here.

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