More than 50 farmers have signed up as members for a new organic producer organisation that was launched in Westport last week.

The Western Organic Producer Organisation aims to support existing organic farmers and new entrants right along the western seaboard.

Over 100 farmers attended the launch at Westport’s Castlecourt Hotel last Thursday, with many more contacting the organisers by email and phone to express an interest in becoming involved.

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The new group is being chaired by Teagasc organic advisor John Noonan and is being co-ordinated by Breege Biggins who works with both the Mayo Blackface Sheep Breeders and the Mayo Mule and Greyface Group.

The organisation is looking for new members who are producing high quality lambs or finishing lambs, along with hogget producers and buyers.

Noonan is particularly keen on women farmers and younger farmers becoming involved.

The producer organisation is planning to hold a special breeding and store lamb sale at Maam Cross Mart on Sunday, 23 August.

The group can be contacted at john.noonan@teagasc.ie or shane.ohaire@teagasc.ie; or phone 086 731 3965 for more details.