Series 27, Episode 10
Wexford Geese
Farming and nature are often seen as being in conflict with each other. But not so on the Wexford Wildfowl Reserve where nature is dependent on farming in order to create a perfect bird habitat. Helen Carroll visited the Wexford Slobs where the open fields, widely spaced out hedges, water channels and soft, well-watered soils attract over 250 different migrating bird species to spend the winter feeding and breeding.
Healthy Soil
It is said that when we stand on the soil, we are standing on the rooftop to another world. But often we take for granted what lies beneath our feet and forget how important it is to our lives. But how healthy is the soil in Ireland and how can we ensure this precious commodity is in the best possible condition? Ella Mc Sweeney meets a group of farmers in Kildare actively pursuing a more holistic approach to how they look after their land. One of the world’s leading soil Ecologists, Christine Jones joins the group on their farm walk.
Horse Therapy
Nestling in the Golden Vale in West Limerick, Liskennett Farm is home to 25 horses and 14 people with autism, but its influence extends right across the Midwest. The farm was established 5 years ago by the Charleville based charity St Joseph’s Foundation to provide equine therapy to people with autism. Farm manager David Doyle, whose daughter has autism, says the therapy is much more than just animal-child interaction. “The rhythm of the horse has an effect on the stress hormones in the child, giving them a chance to break the cycle of fear and allowing better communication”. The farm provided 10,000 sessions last year and David Doyle says there is a great need for other centres around the country. Darragh McCullough reports from this unique farm.