Organic Farming Scheme to open on 7 March 2011

24/02/2011

Minister Michelle Gildernew MP, MLA has announced the opening dates for the Organic Farming Scheme.

Confirming the opening dates, the Minister said: "Now that the draft budget has been announced, I can reveal that the Organic Farming Scheme will open from 9.00am on 7 March 2011 until 5.00pm on 1 April 2011. 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 one 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."

In conclusion the Minister said: "If you are moving towards conversion of your farming system to organic, you should consider applying for the Organic Farming Scheme. I would encourage anyone who is considering a move to organic to weigh up their options and see if the OFS could help them."

You can apply by contacting Countryside Management Development Branch at Loughry 028 8675 7515 or 028 8675 7516.

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