As part of the drive for the Irish agriculture sector to achieve a 25% emissions reduction by 2030, Teagasc has established a new advisory programme for farmers. The Signpost Advisory Programme aims to help farmers to implement climate and sustainability actions on their farms over the coming decade. Given the nature of the national discourse at the moment, it surprised me to learn that many farmers are still unaware of this service. As a "public good programme", it surely deserves a great deal more media attention that it has received to date. That is why, in this week's first entry, we are going to take an in-depth look at the programme and the services it offers to Irish farmers.
Signpost: what's it about?
Participation in Signpost is open to all farmers. The programme will link in with the existing Signpost Demonstration Farm Network, providing enhanced support and advice to farmers to help them achieve meaningful climate and sustainability actions on their farms. A new team of Signpost advisors has been assembled across the Teagasc advisory regions. These will facilitate farmers to participate in the programme.
Ultimately, Signpost aims to encourage Irish farming families to adopt new approaches, technologies and food production systems as part of the drive to meet Ireland's 2023 emissions targets.
Teagasc says it hopes to enrol 10,000 farmers in the programme each year, with a total of 50,000 participating up to 2030.
What will Signpost mean for participating farms?
Participation in Signpost is optional, but farmers are strongly encouraged to participate. Once you have registered for the programme, the Signpost advisor will conduct a baseline assessment of current sustainability actions being taken on your farm. This will include data on the current emissions figures for your farm, which will give you a clearer idea of the areas in which you need to make changes.
Once the baseline assessment has been carried out, your advisor will help you to draw up an action plan. This will enable you to choose and commit to the actions that are most relevant for your farm. A range of supports - including advisory and group-based supports - will be put in place to help you achieve your targets.
How long will the Signpost Programme take and what does it cost?
Participation in the programme is for 3 years. This will give you ample time to deliver on the various targets you have set yourself in relation to emissions management.
There is no charge for participation. The service is freely available to all farmers.
Registration
Farmers are actively encouraged to participate in the Signpost Advisory Programme. An online registration service is available via the Teagasc website. To register you will need some basic details as well as your herd number.
For more information, visit the relevant page on the Teagasc website.
