Applications open for Farm Innovation Visit to the Netherlands

Those taking part will see and hear about research on various ammonia reduction technologies and methodologies, through Wageningen University Farm at Leeuwarden, which is the world leading Centre on developing systems to reduce ammonia emissions from agricultural sources.

There will be farm visits to see how this research is being implemented and hear from the farmers on the ground. There will be a visit to Lely headquarters in Maassluis to see and hear how their robotic equipment is manufactured and what new inventions are in the pipeline to help meet the needs of emission reduction.

A visit to Farm Nescio who were the first farm to have a milking robot installed in 1992 and have further retrofitted technology to advance their sustainable enterprise. The trip will involve 2-3 nights away, travelling via Dublin to Amsterdam.

An action within the recently published Environmental Improvement Plan is to develop an Ammonia Strategy to deliver reductions in ammonia emissions from agriculture. This FIV represents an ideal opportunity to learn about cutting edge research on ammonia reduction and the adoption of these technologies on farms in the Netherlands.

Applications are invited from one member or employee of a farm business that has over three hectares of land, is over 18 years old on the application closing date and not in full-time education. Fifteen places are available on this visit, these will be allocated with preference given to those who meet the criteria.

To increase the benefits arising from the study tour, all applicants must identify a group of farmers to share their findings with upon their return.

The Farm Innovation Scheme, which is part of the NI Rural Development Programme will cover the costs associated with setting up the visit, accommodation, travel and meals. Participants will be expected to meet any additional costs, including farm relief and travel insurance.

Farmers interested in participating can find out more details and complete an application form at: https://consultations2.nidirect.gov.uk/daera/fiv-application-ammonia-reduction-jan25/

Applications close at 4:00pm on Friday 1 November 2024.