Wexford dairy farmer Cheryl Poole has been recognised for the role she plays in addressing water-related challenges across Europe’s farm sector in winning Copa-Cogeca’s Innovation Award for Women Farmers.
The award was presented at a ceremony held in the European Parliament and Fine Gael MEP for midlands-northwest Maria Walsh sat on the judging panel.
The Gorey-based farmer said that receiving the award “recognises not only our work, but also the values of our farm and business”.
“It is essential that while producing high quality food we protect our environment, climate, biodiversity and water quality. On our family farm we strive to achieve this balance,” Poole said.
“We take a science-based approach, with a strong focus on biodiversity in our farming practices.
“We also firmly believe in educating the next generation; we have opened the Poole Bio School to offer a chance for schools and community groups to experience life and biodiversity on our farms.”
Walsh pointed to Poole’s farm as one that achieves decent performance on productivity and environmental stewardship.
“This award sends a clear message: women farmers are not only participating - they are leading,” she said.
“Across the EU, we must do more to support their innovation and amplify their voices, through policies and practices. The future of farming depends on it.”
Fianna Fáil MEP for Ireland south Cynthia Ní Mhurchú said the award proves Poole is “dedicated to protecting wildlife, rainwater harvesting, reducing waste and protecting our waterways and is the perfect example of how farmers are living in harmony with their environment”.
“She is a champion for biodiversity, lower fertiliser uses and reduced energy costs.
“The Poole farm has also become an important community hub, earning national and international recognition for its environmental leadership,” the MEP said.
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