Help us make a difference: We need agricultural voices
As many of you may be aware, there are several research projects underway addressing the challenges facing biodiversity and agriculture. Through collaboration between these initiatives, we have identified several ongoing surveys where farming voices are especially needed.
We know how busy those working in the agricultural sector are, so we have all the relevant survey information in one place to make it as easy as possible to contribute.
Surveys are a vital method to understand the scope of opinions and experiences across a sector – but their accuracy and usefulness is determined by how many people take part. We need enough responses – and a wide range of perspectives – to draw meaningful and reliable conclusions.
Every response helps ensure that research and policy decisions are based on reliable, representative data. However, without enough responses and perspectives, insights drawn may not truly reflect the reality on the ground. And, unfortunately, due to the worsening health of our biodiversity and ecosystems (see the latest European Environment Agency (EEA) report here), we don’t have a lot of time for trial and error.
That’s why we need to ask you for your help to collect the most accurate data we can. Every voice counts – your input will help us make progress towards more sustainable, mutually-beneficial solutions for nature and farming alike. All survey data is anonymous.
Below, you’ll find details for each of our current surveys. We’ve included key information so you can quickly see what each one is about, who it’s for, and a link to participate.
Knowledge gaps and needs with biodiversity-supporting practices
Project: FarmBioNet (Horizon Europe)
- Survey aims: To identify knowledge gaps and needs of farmers, foresters, and advisors and how these needs are perceived by stakeholders.
- Who can participate? Farmers, foresters, and advisors
- How long? 20-30 mins
- When will results be shared? Release results late Spring 2026 via the Farming and Biodiversity National Network mailing list (contact Saorla Kavanagh below to be added)
- Take the survey here.
- Project website/information: FarmBioNet website
- Point of contact: Niall Walshe, TeagascNiall.Walshe@teagasc.ie and Saorla Kavanagh, Teagasc farmbionet@teagasc.ie.
Stakeholder experience and needs for pollinator-related tools
Projects: RestPoll & VALOR
- Survey aims: To find out what tools and resources different groups in society (1) currently use and why and (2) would like to see developed.
- How long? 10-20 minutes.
- Who can participate? Anyone involved in, or dependent on, the agricultural sector, and anyone involved in pollinator conservation or research.
- When will results be shared? Release results early Spring 2026 via the Irish RestPoll mailing list (contact Sarah Larragy below to be added)
Project website/information: RestPoll website; VALOR website.
Point of contact: Sarah Larragy, TCD – slarragy@tcd.ie
Farmer views and experiences with pollinator-supporting practices
Project: A View Across Fields (Formas)
- Survey aims: To ask farmers or farm advisors about their views on and experiences with pollinator-supporting practices, such as flower strips and hedgerows.
- Who can participate? Farmers & farm advisors
- How long? 10 mins
- Project information: A View Across Fields project description.
- Points of contact: Alison O’Reilly (alison.oreilly@cec.lu.se) and Jess Knapp (jessica.knapp@cec.lu.se), Lund University.