Published: 27 May 2025
In the rolling hills of Northern Ireland, a quiet revolution is taking place, transforming the way farmers approach their craft. Spearheading this change are Technology Demonstration Farms (TDFs), local farms that serve as living classrooms, showcasing the latest agricultural innovations. The College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) has been instrumental in this initiative, organising over 600 TDF training events across various sectors including Dairy, Beef, Sheep, Crop, Environmental, and Pig farming.
The feedback from visitors has been overwhelmingly positive, with many farmers eager to implement the new techniques and technologies on their own farms. The success of the program has encouraged CAFRE to continue taking bookings for visits to TDF farms over the coming months, offering a unique opportunity for farmers to learn and grow together.
One such TDF is the farm of Alastair McNeilly from Muckamore, Co Antrim. As one of the first beef farmers to be appointed as a TDF, Alastair has opened his farm to almost 40 groups, sharing his knowledge and experience in various aspects of farming, with a particular focus on grassland management.
Alastair’s 60-hectare farm is home to an 80 suckler cow and beef finishing enterprise, as well as a poultry enterprise. He operates a closed herd, primarily composed of Limousin and Aberdeen Angus cross cows, rearing his own replacements and finishing all the progeny. His focus on improving the productivity of his grassland has led to better utilisation of grass and improved animal performance.
This has been achieved through a range of technologies, including soil analysis and nutrient management planning, grass budgeting using online support tools, and animal performance recording using EID weighing scales. Alastair’s enthusiasm for his role as a TDF is palpable. “I really enjoy hosting group visits,” he says. “I am looking forward to having other groups of farmers visit my farm in the months ahead.”
The TDF initiative is funded by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) under the Innovation Technology Evaluation Demonstration (ITED) Scheme, as part of the Rural Development Programme. This support underscores the importance of the initiative in driving innovation and progress in Northern Ireland’s agricultural sector.
For those interested in visiting a TDF, details of all participating farms, including Alastair’s, and how to book a visit are available on the CAFRE website. Currently, CAFRE is taking group bookings only, which can be arranged by emailing [email protected].
This initiative represents a significant step forward in agricultural education and innovation. By providing a platform for farmers to learn from each other and adopt new technologies, TDFs are helping to shape the future of farming in Northern Ireland.