What Lies Beneath! - Soil Health Takes Centre Stage at Cullyhanna

An evening dedicated to exploring the crucial relationship between soil health, farming practices and environmental sustainability is set to take place in south Armagh next week.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council is hosting the event on Wednesday 15 October at 7.30pm in the Cardinal O'Fiaich Heritage Centre in Cullyhanna, bringing agricultural expertise directly to the local farming community.

The speaker for the evening is Andy Doyle, an agricultural journalist with more than 30 years' experience in the field and formerly Tillage Editor of the Irish Farmers Journal. Drawing on his extensive background in both agricultural journalism and crop research, Andy will delve into the science of how soils work, what makes soil healthy, and how different farming approaches affect both the ground beneath our feet and the wider climate.

The session is designed particularly for farmers, landowners and anyone involved in managing land sustainably. Attendees will gain practical understanding of how maintaining healthy soils can boost farm productivity whilst simultaneously supporting local biodiversity and building greater resilience against the challenges of climate change. The evening will also create space for discussion and the sharing of knowledge among those whose livelihoods depend on working the land.

Council Chairperson Councillor Philip Campbell welcomed the initiative, saying: "We are proud to welcome Andy Doyle to our district for what promises to be an informative and inspiring evening. Soil is the foundation of our farming heritage and our future. Events like this highlight the importance of protecting and understanding our natural resources, and I encourage all local farmers and landowners to attend and take part in this important conversation."

The event ties into the broader work of the Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark, which plays an important part in soil conservation through protecting the geological heritage that shapes soil formation. The remarkable variety of rock types found across the Geopark creates an equally diverse range of soils, which in turn supports the region's biodiversity, helps with climate resilience and enables sustainable farming practices.

The event is free to attend. Those interested can find more information and book their place at mournegullionstrangfordgeopark.com