Farm Walk highlights innovative Grassland and Nature Management at Mayo family farm

A recent farm walk hosted by Alan and Alanna Daly on their family farm along the shores of Lough Mask in Mayo provided attendees with a unique and educational insight into sustainable land management and nature conservation.

It was organised as part of the Farming for Nature Farm Walk Series. The event drew a large and engaged crowd, all eager to learn from the Daly family’s ongoing work in nature-friendly farming through their involvement in the NPWS farm plan.

Participants were treated to a fascinating walk through the myriad of habitats present on the Daly's farm but the real highlight was the knowledge shared. Alan Daly demonstrated his bracken management techniques, explaining how regular topping in June, July, and August over the past five years has helped revive the health and productivity of grasslands on the farm. Alan is also trialling an alternative approach by rolling bracken to compare outcomes and fine-tune best practices, as part of his NPWS-supported efforts.

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Another compelling aspect of the walk was the discussion around the use of Yellow Rattle, a semi-parasitic plant that reduces the vigour of grasses allowing other plants to grow. By sourcing seeds from conservation group the Burrenbeo Trust, Alan aims to pave the way for the reestablishment of an old hay meadow, a vital step in restoring the traditional wildflower and herb species typically found.

Biodiversity took centre stage throughout the visit, with special attention given to the Daly farm’s role as an active bat roost site. Tom O'Donnell, one of the Daly's farm planners, explained how avoiding modern roofing materials, such as synthetic felt, has helped preserve suitable roosting spaces for bats, an often overlooked, but very important species.

“We are incredibly grateful to Alan, Alanna, and the entire Daly family for their generosity in hosting this farm walk and for the great work they are doing for nature on their land” said a spokesperson for Farming for Nature. “This walk was not only enjoyable but educational, and it demonstrated the real impact of thoughtful land stewardship.”

This event is part of a wider series of farm walks designed to support knowledge exchange and peer learning among farmers and conservationists across Ireland.

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