Athenry 2025: Agroforestry for Ireland's Farming Future

The National Agroforestry Conference held in Athenry in November 2025 brought together experts, farmers, and policymakers to discuss the integration of trees into Irish farming systems as a solution to multiple agricultural challenges. Organized by the Irish Agroforestry Forum and Teagasc, the conference highlighted practical examples of agroforestry from across Ireland, emphasizing the environmental, economic, social, and animal welfare benefits of incorporating trees into farms. Professor Jim McAdam from AFBI and Queen’s University Belfast opened the event, drawing on 35 years of research at the Loughgall silvopasture site in Northern Ireland. His presentation demonstrated that integrating trees with livestock production can maintain agricultural output while delivering significant environmental benefits, including improved biodiversity, climate resilience, water quality, soil health, and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. The conference underscored that silvopasture systems can extend the grazing season, increase carbon sequestration, reduce water runoff and nutrient loss, and enhance animal health and welfare. For Irish farmers, the event provided clear evidence that agroforestry is not only environmentally beneficial but also economically viable, with support growing from organizations such as Teagasc, the Irish Agroforestry Forum, and European projects like AF4EU and EELAP. International networks such as the European Agroforestry Federation (EURAF) also offer extensive resources and expertise. The conference concluded that agroforestry presents a practical pathway for building more resilient, diverse, and sustainable farming enterprises, especially for those willing to plan for the long term. The event also showcased real-world examples, such as mixed conifer and hardwood woodlands, hedgerows, orchards, and beekeeping, all contributing to biodiversity and farm self-sufficiency. Ongoing monitoring of birds and insects by Biodiversity Ireland further illustrates the ecological value of these systems. The conference emphasized that agroforestry is not just a niche practice but a scalable solution for the future of Irish agriculture, with growing support for education, research, and policy development.