Norman Dunne won the RDS Spring Awards Kildare 2023 prize

placeholder image — Norman Dunne won the RDS Spring Awards Kildare 2023 prize

The 2023 RDS Spring Agriculture and Forestry Awards presentation took place today in Dublin. With a total prize fund of €31,000, the awards celebrate and promote the principles of climate-smart agriculture in Ireland. Norman Dunne won the RDS Spring Awards Kildare 2023 prize for sustainable agriculture. Thirteen Award winners were announced over three main categories: Forestry, Livestock and Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Development.

Speaking at the RDS, Minister Hackett said, “Sustainable farming and agriculture has a very bright future in Ireland and I am delighted to see the efforts of all the award winners here today at the RDS Spring Agriculture and Forestry Awards. As a proud organic farmer myself, I understand the hard work involved, but also the pride and satisfaction that goes with practising climate-smart farming and forestry. I want to congratulate all the award winners and indeed all those who participated.”

According to RDS President, John Dardis: “It is more important than ever to recognise the work of our farmers, foresters and agri-entrepreneurs, who are contributing to the sustainable development of Irish agriculture, which remains the most important industry in rural Ireland. This year’s Spring Agriculture and Forestry Award winners have achieved a balance between the economic and environmental needs of the sector and are highlighting what is possible when experience is combined with innovation and dedication.

“The RDS wishes to thank Minister Hackett and acknowledge the support of the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine for these awards, in particular for their continued sponsorship of the Forestry Award category. Increased carbon sequestration through effective forestry management is recognised as one of the most effective tools available in tackling climate change and in promoting sustainable agriculture. These Awards recognise those who are setting the standard for others to follow in this regard. What they have been able to achieve is an inspiration to all involved in the future development of Irish agriculture.”

The 2023 RDS Spring Agriculture and Forestry Award recipients are:

RDS Forestry and Woodland Awards

Production Forestry Award – Des and Elaine Drew, Co. Dublin

Teagasc Farm Forestry Award – Sean Creamer, Co. Leitrim

Community Woodlands Award – Knockranny Woods, Co. Mayo

RDS Livestock Awards

Economic Breeding Index Award (Best Dairy Cow) – Brendan Meade, Co. Meath

Euro-Star Index Award (Best Beef Cow) – Gerard Collins, Co. Clare

Dairy Herd Index Award – Jim White, Co. Tipperary

Beef Herd Index Award – William McGrath, Co. Cork

LambPlus Breeders Index Award – William Hutchinson, Co. Kilkenny

RDS Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Development Awards