Cultivating the next generation of organic farmers in Mayo

ASPIRING organic growers now have a unique opportunity to dive into the world of organic horticulture with the Organic Growers of Ireland (OGI) Internship in Organic Horticulture programme for 2025.

This innovative work placement initiative, which includes Mayo, is designed to equip participants with the skills, knowledge and experience necessary to thrive in the growing organic sector.

With Europe targeting a 25% increase in organic agriculture by 2030 and the need for greater food security in Ireland, there has never been a better time to consider a career in organic farming.

Said Una Wycherley, coordinator of the programme: “With supports for organic growers significantly increased under the new National Organic Strategy, and consumer demand for sustainable produce at an all-time high, the opportunities in this sector are immense."

The OGI Internship Programme offers six- to nine-month-long paid work placements on some of Ireland’s leading organic farms, including Glasraí Organic Farm in Co. Mayo.

Other participating farms are: Hometree Native Irish Nursery, Co. Clare, Irish Seed Savers Association, Co. Clare, Cork Rooftop Farm, Co. Cork, Beechlawn Organic Farm, Co. Galway, Mill House Farm, Co. Galway, Moyleabbey Farm, Co. Kildare, Paul Brophy Produce, Co. Kildare, Ballincarey Farm (Dermot Carey), Co. Kildare, Master Chefs, Co. Limerick, Slieve Bloom Organics, Co. Offaly, GIY, Co. Waterford, Castleruddery Organic Farm, Co. Wicklow, and Green Earth Organics, Co. Galway.

Participants will gain real-world experience working a minimum of 30 hours per week, developing essential skills such as soil health management, crop propagation, pest control, machinery operation and marketing. The programme also includes workshops led by organic horticulture experts like renowned market gardener Jim Cronin and trainer Klaus Laitenberger and Dave Beecher.

Beyond hands-on farm work, interns participate in engaging farm walks, classes and workshops. A key component is achieving a QQI Level 5 qualification in Organic Principles and Standards, essential for transitioning to organic farming and accessing department funding.

The programme’s holistic approach connects interns with a community of growers and experts, fostering lifelong friendships and industry contacts.

As past participant Louise Rankin, who made the move from teaching to organic farming, shared: “The connections I made through this programme have been invaluable.”

The programme welcomes applicants from all walks of life, whether transitioning family farms to organic practices or making bold career changes. A background in horticulture, an agricultural qualification, or six months of farm experience (voluntary or paid) is required to apply. The internship serves as a bridge to full-time careers in the organic sector, with many participants continuing to work on host farms or starting their own enterprises.

Applications are open until February 15. For more information and to apply, visit https://organicgrowersireland.ie/ or contact Una Wycherley at placement@organicgrowersireland.ie.