29 May 2025

Organic mixed farming with John Hamilton

Donegal farmer, John Hamilton combines sucklers, sheep and tillage in a fully organic system.

John Hamilton is a mixed enterprise organic farmer based in St Johnston, Co. Donegal, with an additional out-farm in Newtowncunningham. His journey into organic farming began in 2009, and by 2011, the farm had achieved full organic status. All the land farmed is owned by John, with no leased land, and his system includes three key enterprises: suckler cattle, sheep, and tillage.

Tillage Enterprise 

The tillage enterprise is largely used for growing feed for the cattle and sheep on the farm but there is also a small amount of feed sold off farm to local organic farmers.

The tillage enterprise for 2024 consists of a combination crop (Pea, Barley and Oat Mix), arable silage, Forage rape and a Pea/Bean mix as part of a nationwide trial.

In the video below, John caught up with Cathal McCauley, Teagasc Organic Advisor to discuss how he aims to grow top quality silage for his cattle and sheep. John outlines how he is focusing on red clover silage and how he incorporates red clover into the rotation on his farm.

Suckler Enterprise 

The Suckler enterprise consists of 20 suckler cows with predominantly Hereford x Simmental breeding. The cows have excellent milk ability and produce excellent quality calves. John has recently switched to using a red Angus sire which continues the ease of finishing animals which the Hereford has provided in the past. All cattle produced are finished on farm and are sold through an organic processor.

Sheep Enterprise 

The sheep enterprise consists of a flock of 50 ewes with a scanning rate of approximately 1.8 annually. All lamb is brought right through to finish.

John’s experience shows how organic farming can be successfully implemented across multiple enterprises. By growing his own feed and finishing all livestock on farm, he demonstrates a sustainable model of organic farming.

Find out more about the Growing Organics programme