Thomas Kavanagh

Thomas and Noreen Kavanagh joined the Growing Organics Monitor Farm Programme in 2023. Their participation will run for five years and is aimed at promoting the adoption of best practices at farm level to increase the future viability and sustainability of the Irish Organic sector. The Kavanagh’s farm in the historic townland of Ballymoreigh Upper Ventry, Dingle, Co. Kerry. The holding is made up of one block of land all of which is owned. The total area of the farm is 78 Ha. They have three children, Louise, Cliona and Ronan. Both Thomas and Noreen have full time jobs off-farm.

Thomas and Noreen joined the Organic Scheme in March 2022 principally due to frustration at large inflation in the prices of fertiliser, fuel and feed. In addition the production of cattle in an organic, environmentally capacity appealed to them. The farm has recently converted from store beef production to a suckling system. The Kavanaghs both feel that this system can work well within the organic system, using grass and the excellent housing present to drive a high level of sustainable production.

Suckler Beef

Prior to switching to organic suckling beef Thomas & Noreen purchased 60 weaned Aberdeen Angus / Hereford heifer calves at approximately 3 months of age. They were normally retained until 18-20 months of age and sold as forward stores at weights of approximately 400 kgs. Beef output per LU in 2022 was 343 kgs whilst output per Ha was 266 kgs. Given the layout of the land in one block and the suitable infrastructure a move to suckling took place in 2023. 24 Aberdeen Angus cows calved down in 2023 with a plan to have 27 calf in 2024.

Calves born in the Spring of 2023 will be held until March 2024. Thomas feels that there will be an excellent market for these type of organically certified cattle for both breeding and fattening for slaughter in the future. Thomas is a participant in the Suckler Cow Efficiency Programme.