Farming has always involved uncertainty, but today’s challenges can feel greater than ever. Rising fuel and fertiliser costs, volatile markets, climate pressures and increasing environmental demands are forcing farmers to think differently about the future of their farms.

While no one can control global supply chains or weather extremes, there are practical actions farmers can take to build stronger, more sustainable farm systems.

One of the most valuable resources already on every farm is soil. Soil is the foundation for our agri-food systems and 95% of our food comes directly or indirectly from soil.

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The importance of healthy soils

Healthy soils do far more than grow grass and crops. They store carbon, recycle nutrients, filter water, support biodiversity and help farms cope better with drought and heavy rainfall. In fact, a single tablespoon of healthy soil contains more living organisms than there are people on Earth, all working to improve nutrient cycling, soil fertility and plant growth.

Protecting soil health delivers real benefits on the ground. Optimising soil fertility and pH improves nutrient availability and supports better crop and grass growth. Avoiding soil compaction improves drainage, reduces runoff and protects water quality and measures such as riparian buffer strips and over-winter green cover can help reduce nutrient loss while improving resilience across the farm.

These are all practical actions offering practical rewards: lower fertiliser losses, healthier soils, cleaner water and stronger resilience against climate and market pressures.

Open day at Johnstown Castle

To help farmers see these measures in action, Teagasc is hosting 'Farming for a Better Future: Innovating for Healthy Soils and Clean Water' on 10 June at Teagasc Johnstown Castle, Co Wexford.

This major open day will bring together Teagasc research, advisory and education specialists to showcase the latest practical advice, demonstrations and innovations focused on soil health, water quality and sustainable farming. Visitors will have the opportunity to speak directly with experts, see live demonstrations and learn how small changes in soil and nutrient management can deliver significant benefits for both farm profitability and environmental performance.

The event will focus on practical, achievable actions farmers can take immediately on their own farms. Topics will include improving soil fertility, avoiding compaction, nutrient management, protecting watercourses and building resilience into farming systems for the future.

For farmers looking for practical ideas, expert guidance and simple actions that can make a real difference on the ground, 'Farming for a Better Future' is an event not to miss.

Find out more about the event at https://teagasc.ie/event/farming-for-a-better-future-2026/.