The primary objective of this project is to adopt innovative approaches to add value to the Blackstairs hill farming system whilst simultaneously improving habitat condition. The Blackstairs Farming Futures (BFF) EIP pilot proposes to develop and trial four innovations:
1. A Results Based Agri-Environment Payment Scheme for upland habitats and commonage land
2. An effective commonage governance model for Ireland
3. Habitat management for red grouse and wider upland biodiversity by commonage farmers in the Blackstairs
4. Wider community engagement in the environment, culture and tradition of farming in the Uplands
The project is conducted by GMIT (ARD group) in partnership with Blackstairs Farming Group; Teagasc; National Parks and Wildlife Service; JP Byrne & Co. with funding from the Department of Agriculture Food and the Marine (2018-2022)
