Kilkenny Farms Honored for Major Greenhouse Gas Reductions

UPDATE: Two farms in Kilkenny have received prestigious recognition for their groundbreaking efforts in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The Teagasc / FBD Environmental Sustainability Awards were presented earlier today by Timmy Dooley TD, Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine.

The award for Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions was claimed by the Dollard family, who operate a dairy beef farm in Kilkenny. Their commitment to environmental sustainability is evident as they have successfully reduced chemical fertilizer usage by more than 20% over the past two years. By switching to protected urea for 80% of their fertilizer needs, they are setting a new standard in sustainable farming.

The Dollards focus on soil fertility and grassland management, achieving impressive results. Their steers now reach slaughter weights at approximately 21.5 months, while operating at a stocking rate of 2.51 LU/ha. The farm’s carbon footprint stands at an impressive 7.6 kg CO2e/kg LW, showcasing their dedication to lowering emissions.

In addition to their fertilizer innovations, the Dollards are actively participating in environmental schemes, including ACRES (2023–2027), where they have established over 2,615 metres of riparian buffers and 1.93 hectares of riparian zones. This initiative aims to safeguard water quality and enhance biodiversity. They have also applied for a yard sweeper through the Water EIP and are engaged in the Teagasc Signpost Advisory Programme for comprehensive sustainability planning.

Their efforts extend to biodiversity management as well, where the farm features careful hedgerow management with native bushes retained every 100 metres. Nutrient protection is strictly enforced with designated slurry and fertilizer buffer zones.

Looking ahead, the Dollards plan to transition to 100% protected urea by 2026, reduce slaughter age even further, and install solar panels through the TAMS initiative. Their farm is emerging as a model for sustainable dairy beef production, setting a compelling example for others in the industry.

In addition to the Dollards, James Madigan, another Kilkenny farmer, received recognition at the awards. The overall winner of the Teagasc / FBD Environmental Sustainability Award for 2025 was Don Somers, a tillage farmer from Oylgate, County Wexford.

The recognition of these farms highlights a significant movement toward environmentally responsible farming practices. As climate change continues to pose challenges globally, the innovative strategies employed by the Dollard family and their peers are critical in the fight against greenhouse gas emissions.

Stay tuned for more updates on sustainable farming practices and local environmental initiatives.