Organic sheep farming - factors to consider and producing lamb on an organic farm

The Irish organic sector has experienced a large influx of new farmers in recent years, with over 4,000 farmers now farming organically - including just over 2,000 who entered conversion in January 2023. The number of organic sheep flocks in 2021 was approaching 700, with an estimated 66,000 breeding ewes, which will increase with the recent new entrants. Teagasc Organic Specialist, Elaine Leavy, told delegates at the recent series of National Sheep Conferences.
Amy Jackson, in partnership with her husband Ross, are farming organically in Lacka, north Tipperary. The farm comprises both an organic cereal and sheep enterprise. Prior to conversion to an organic system, it was a tillage farm with a number of crops being grown. She told their story at the recent National Sheep Conference.