Award-Winning Wexford Farmer Opens His Gates for Family Farm Walk

Don Somers, overall winner of the Teagasc FBD Environmental Sustainability Award 2025, hosted a special family farm walk, attended by hundreds of people, on his farm in Oylegate, County Wexford yesterday evening the 17th of June.

Don farms 183 hectares in partnership with his uncle Jim, producing winter and spring cereals while sharing machinery and labour resources. His farm was recognised nationally for its outstanding commitment to environmental sustainability, innovative farming practices and dedication to protecting natural resources while producing high-quality food.

Don Somers has implemented a range of sustainable farming practices, including precision nutrient management, organic manure use, cover crops, and advanced technologies such as nitrogen sensors and yield mapping to improve efficiency and soil health. His commitment to environmental protection is further demonstrated through reduced chemical nitrogen use, riparian buffer zones, integrated pest management, and biodiversity-friendly hedgerow management that help safeguard water quality and wildlife habitats.

Speaking from the event, Dr Siobhán Kavanagh, Teagasc Signpost Programme Communications and Engagement Specialist, said: “Since being crowned the overall winner of the Teagasc/FBD Environmental Sustainability Awards last October, Don Somers has been a fantastic ambassador, sharing key messages on his journey to date, while always acknowledging the advice and guidance he has received from other farmers along the way.”

Michael Berkery, Chair of FBD Trust, said: “It was a fantastic experience to visit Don’s farm, which is a true example of a modern, sustainable farming enterprise. It also provided a stunning backdrop for celebrating a vibrant local community. Since their inception, the Teagasc FBD Environmental Sustainability Awards have been at the forefront of highlighting innovative farming practices, demonstrating how farmers can successfully balance environmental sustainability with running efficient and profitable businesses. We are looking forward to hearing even more inspiring stories like Don’s in 2026.”
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