Going organic? –get your application in!

The Organic Farming Scheme opened for applications on the 1 September this year and will close on the 31 October.  The Scheme provides payments to help farmers who are in the process of converting their farming system to organic, reflecting the higher costs and initial loss of income that occurs during the conversion period.  

The Scheme is voluntary and open to all farmers with a trading DARD Farm Business Identification Number, and at least 1 hectare of horticultural or at least three hectares of arable, improved or semi-improved land.  Applicants have to be in the process of converting to organic production, including having made contact with an organic registration body.  However, land which is fully converted to organic production is not eligible for the Scheme.

If you are moving towards conversion of your farming system to organic, you should consider applying for the Organic Farming Scheme before it closes on the 31 October. You can apply by contacting your local DARD office, or Countryside Management Branch at Loughry (028 8676 8192).

The Organic Farming Scheme is an element of the Rural Development Programme 2007-2013, funded under the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD).