Noel Lynch

1
Noel Lynch Ullanes West, Ballymakeera, Co
Cork Organic Beef Sheep Farmer
2
Before Conversion 2005

• 164 acres grassland and mountain
• 30 suckler cows
• Bulls sold as weanlings
• Heifers finished 12-14 months
• Spring Calving Dec-March
• 80 ewes lambs sold as stores

3
Conversion Process

• Introduced clover to existing pastures
• Grow 6 acres oats and 6 acres red clover
• Modified cubicles
• Switch to autumn calving

4
Current Situation 2009

• 164 acres 36 acres grassland
• 25 cows 30 ewes
• Autumn calving
• All calves sold as 1 ½ year olds
• Grow 6 acres red clover and oats

5
Grassland Management

• Stitching in clover
• Undersowing and Reseeding
• Topping weed control
• Tight grazing in spring/early summer
• Efficient use of FYM and slurry

6
Livestock Management

• Closed Herd
• Rotational Grazing
• No routine dosing

7
Pros and Cons of Organic Farming

• Pros
• No Fertiliser Bill
• Grant Payments
• Premium for cattle sold

• Cons
• Drop in production levels
• Conversion Plan cost
• Annual Licence Fee
• Dearer concentrates
• More Straw