Exploring new opportunities for the family farm
For many farm families, the traditional agricultural enterprise remains at the heart of the farm business. However, as Teagasc Advisor, Eimear Hughes writes rising costs, family circumstances, a desire to create additional income or nurture an entrepreneurial spirit can all lead farmers to consider an alternative enterprise on their farm.
This is where the Teagasc Options Programme can play an important role.
This autumn, Teagasc will run a series of Options Programme Events nationally. The programme is designed to encourage farm families to look at resources, skills and opportunities they may have, and consider how these might be developed into additional or alternative sources of income. Diversification does not necessarily mean moving away from farming. In many cases, it is about adding another enterprise or making better use of existing farm buildings, land, skills and resources.
No single model for diversification
There is no single model for diversification. For one farm, it might mean developing a farm shop or producing value-added food products. For another, it could involve agroforestry, organic farming, tourism or outdoor accommodation.
With this in mind, Teagasc is hosting a two-day Options Programme workshop in Mellows Campus, Athenry on the 3rd and 4th of November. The workshop runs from 10am to 4pm daily and is aimed at landowners and farmers interested in developing the opportunities available to them.
The two-day event will give participants the opportunity to hear from specialists involved in different areas of rural enterprise, learn about the supports available and importantly, see diversification in practice.
Seeing diversification in operation
A key part of the programme will be a visit to a local farm that has successfully developed a number of complementary enterprises. The farm demonstrates how a range of different activities can be brought together to create additional income streams, while maximising the use of existing assets.
The farm includes a farm shop, egg production, vegetable production, agroforestry, native woodland, saunas and an event space.
The practical realities of diversification
For farmers thinking about diversifying, seeing these enterprises in operation provides a valuable opportunity to understand what’s involved beyond simply hearing about it. Participants will also have the opportunity to learn about some of the practical realities of diversification – what worked, what was challenging, what lessons have been learned along the way.
Another important element to the event will be the opportunity to explore opportunities in food production and food enterprise. The programme will include a visit to the BIA Innovator Centre in Athenry, where participants can learn more about developing a food business and the supports available to new and growing food enterprises.
The supports available
Representatives from the Local Enterprise Office will explain the range of supports available to those considering developing a food product or food-related business. This will provide an opportunity for participants to find out about the practical steps involved in taking an idea of a food product from the initial concept to through to a viable enterprise.
The aim of the workshop is not to suggest that every opportunity will be suitable for every farm. It is about giving farm families a flavour of what is possible and encouraging them to think creatively about the future of their own holding.
For some people, the most valuable outcome may simply be a new idea. For others, it may be meeting somebody who has already taken the first steps and learning from their experience. Networking with other people that are considering alternative enterprises can also be an important part of the process.
Overcoming the diversification challenge
Diversification can also be challenging. Careful consideration needs to be given to planning, finance, regulations, markets and demand. However, with the right preparation, advice and support it can provide opportunities to generate additional income, create employment and encourage rural generational renewal.
This event offers the chance to discover new ideas, meet others on a similar journey and see diversification in action.
Attendance is free of charge, but booking is essential, as places are limited. For further information and to book your place contact Eimear Hughes at eimear.hughes@teagasc.ie or visit the Farm Business Options Training Programme section of the Teagasc website on www.teagasc.ie.
Along with Galway, Farm Business Options training programme courses are available in a whole host of additional counties. Visit here to find out more about the additional locations.