Mushroom composters have recognised the importance of a local straw supply and are proposing contracts to guarantee enough quantities this year, IFA grain chair Mark Browne has said.

Browne said straw is now considered a vital part of income on tillage farms and cereal growers must be paid a sustainable price for the product.

“Straw is a valuable and vital product for the wider Irish agriculture sector. For too long, the product has been undervalued with little attention paid to its importance, whether it is incorporated back into soils or used as a feed, bedding or compost source.

“No one needs reminding of the fodder shortages in recent years which led to the importation of large volumes. This will become a regular occurrence if we continue to see the decline in the cereal sector and will only add extra cost to end users,” he said.

The IFA grain chair said the harvest has just started and €20 is being quoted for 4x4 straw in southern areas, with farmers reporting strong demand.

Browne called on all end users to source their straw immediately in order to secure supply.

Read more

Blackgrass expanding at an alarming rate

Barley straw selling at €18 to €20/bale, say growers

Harvest starts on early crops this week