The Beef Data Genomic Programme is funded by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development under the Low Carbon Economy and Environment Protection Investment Areas. The primary goal of the programme is the incentivise farmers to adopt more efficient breeding policies.

The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine coordinated activities with trained advisers and beef farmers to achieve worthwhile effects. An example of one of the activities carried out is the Carbon Navigator. This Carbon Navigator tool captures the actual carbon footprint of beef herds and provides the farmer and their adviser with a number of options for improving their carbon footprint.

Training of Advisers

The Department of Agriculture established a training programme for professional advisers. The training included learning about the terms, concepts and practicalities of reducing carbon usage on the farm and familiarisation with an online Carbon Navigator tool developed by Bord Bia and Teagasc.

Michael Tennisyon, a private consultant based in Co. Kilkenny, was one of the advisers trained:

I found the course of enormous benefit. Apart from familiarising me with the online navigator tool, it provided a comprehensive relearning and refresher course on my practical knowledge and skills in relation to carbon efficiency.

To learn more about the Beef Data Genomics Programme, and what the Advisers went on to do with the Farmers involved, read the full report here.