90,000 soil samples to be taken over 2024

This programme will provide information to farmers to inform decisions that promote the health of their soils.

ISEC, which consists exclusively of Irish organisations, was formed to ensure the delivery of this project, utilising the resources of several organisations.

The consortium is made up of National Co-op Farm Relief Services (FRS), Dairygold, Teagasc, Southern Scientific Services, and FBA Laboratories.

Soil sampling begins this week and will be supported by a team of approximately 100 personnel, with as many as 80 of those collecting the samples on farms around the country.

Farmers will be provided with results that will allow them to implement sustainable soil management practices and improve soil health on their farms.

Sample results will then be delivered over periods ranging from 10 days to six to nine months, depending on the nature of the tests completed and to which programme tier those tests apply.

Informed decisions

Minister of State with responsibility for land use Pippa Hackett commented: “95% of the food we eat starts with the soil and it is important that we help farmers to focus on improving the physical, chemical, and biological properties of their soils.

“Over the course of the coming year, the soil sample results will allow farmers make more informed decisions on their farms and create more profitable and sustainable farming enterprises.”

Pat Murphy of Teagasc said that Teagasc team members will assist with the soil sampling programme and project management.

“We will also be providing ongoing training to ensure the sampling team is operating at the highest level, as well as delivering an additional layer of oversight on the testing operations, further ensuring the quality of the service provided to those farmers who participate in this vital programme,” Mr Murphy added.