The winner of the 2022 Royal Dublin Society (RDS) Teagasc Farm Forestry Award is Cavan farmer Cathal Rudden. He received his award from Teagasc Director Professor Frank O’Mara and Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Pippa Hackett at a May ceremony.
In addition, Cork farmers Willie and Avril Allshire won the Special Commendation Award. They farm 48 hectares in Stradone, Co Cavan.
In 2014, Rudden identified forestry as a steady and reliable income stream that would help him manage the rest of his farm enterprise. As a result, he planted half his farm with Sitka Spruce and Oak. What’s more, he also manages a suckler herd. “I am surprised and delighted to win the RDS Teagasc Farm Forestry Award. I would like to thank my wife Rita and my family for their support. Also my local Teagasc forestry advisor Kevin O’Connell for his advice and support,” said Cathal Rudden.
O’Mara complimented Rudden on his determination to innovate and diversify on his farm, putting him at the forefront of the economic and environmental sustainability of Irish agriculture.
According to RDS President, Professor J. Owen Lewis: “It is more important than ever to recognise the work of our farmers and foresters who are contributing to the sustainable development of Irish agriculture.”
These awards applaud working farmers who successfully implement a whole farm planning approach to their farm and forestry enterprises.