Western Organic Producer Organisation holds successful first sale
Gaining momentum since its launch back in March 2026, Teagasc Organic Advisor, John Noonan reflects of the success of the Western Organic Producer Organisation’s first sheep sale on August 23.
The Western Organic Producer Organisation held its first sheep sale in Maam Cross Mart on Sunday, August 23.
First through the sales ring were hogget ewes and, in line with trends around the country, there was average demand. A max price of €272/head was achieved, the minimum price was the minimum price was €127/head, while the average stood at €211/head.
Store lambs offered through the sale achieved prices €20-25/head ahead of conventional stock prices of a similar type.
The market for ewe lambs was brisk, with exceptional prices for blackface ewe lambs – the quality of which was noteworthy.
Ewe lambs on average, including crossbred lambs, made €90-170/head, ranging in weight from 21.5kg to 34kg.
Sample prices:
- 34kg blackface ram lambs – €108/head
- 30kg blackface ram lambs – €96/head
- 21kg blackface ram lambs – €64/head
- 5kg blackface ewe lambs – €165/head
- 23kg ewe lambs – €150/head
- 5kg ewe lambs – €98/head
The organic sheep presented on the day were strong, healthy and well presented and buyers were very happy with the quality of all stock.
Along with the sale, there was a big crowd of farmers, who were treated to organic lamb burgers supplied by group member, Tommie Hoban of Gleannaolainorganicfarm, while the salads and tomatoes came from Joe Kelly Organic, Kiltimagh, Co. Mayo.
Overall, the group were very happy with the sale, and it has given them confidence to develop and grow. One of the aims of producer organisations is to demonstrate that organic farming can help farmers maintain and improve margins.
The Western Organic Producer Organisation is supported the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, while support from Bord Bia and OBLIG (Organic Beef and Lamb Innovation Group) is much appreciated.