Signpost Advisory Programme
The Signpost Advisory Programme aims to provide comprehensive support to farmers, enabling them to commit to, select, and implement climate and sustainability actions tailored to their farms.
The programme targets engagement with 50,000 farmers by 2030, aiming to empower farm families to adopt technologies and systems reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 25% by 2030 while maintaining profitability.
Farmers can access a range of resources and support through workshops, one-to-one advice, farm walks, and digital newsletters, facilitating informed decision-making and progress tracking.
The Signpost Advisory Programme is free of charge and supported by a team of dedicated advisors across various regions. While the primary focus is on climate action, there are complementary benefits to water quality and biodiversity enhancement. By aligning with broader climate tools and strategies, such as the Sustainability Digital Platform and a National Centre for Agri-food Climate Research and Innovation, the programme strengthens Teagasc’s capacity in climate-related research and knowledge transfer.
One key component, “Know My Number – Make My Plan,” supported by AgNav’s Sustainability Digital Platform, allows farmers to assess their carbon emissions and sequestration profiles as a baseline for action. With the guidance of 21 Signpost climate advisors, participating farmers can develop and implement action plans, fostering trust and capacity for adopting new technologies.
We’re thrilled to assist John and Debbie Sheridan in their vital leadership role, as members of the Signpost Demonstration Farm Network. Our whole community will benefit from their participation in the network, which facilitates farmer-to-farmer learning and knowledge dissemination.
Case Study
John and Debbie Sheridan’s Journey Towards Sustainable Dairy Farming.
John and Debbie Sheridan, dairy farmers in Killoskehane, Borrisoleigh, Thurles, Co. Tipperary, are dedicated members of the Signpost Programme, committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) on their farm.
Collaborating closely with Mark Bourke from Centenary Thurles, Padraig Costigan, their local Teagasc advisor, and Shane O’Hanlon, their Signpost programme advisor, the Sheridans have devised a plan to enhance sustainability while maintaining profitability.
One significant change in their strategy was the adoption of protected urea as the primary source of nitrogen (N) fertilisation. This decision proved to be an “easy win” for John, who promptly ordered the fertilisers based on their nutrient management plan through his local Centenary Agri Farm Store. Throughout the year, 70% of the nitrogen fertiliser purchased on their farm was protected urea. This switch resulted in substantial financial savings, amounting to €8,000, with John explaining, “For every 5 tonnes of CAN I would normally use, I switched to 3 tonnes of protected urea and I saved €1,200.”
Moreover, the transition to protected urea contributed to a 4% reduction in total GHG emissions on their farm. Further, by reducing nitrogen application by 17% from 2021 to 2022 (from 211 kg N/ha to 175 kg N/ha), despite facing yield reduction due to drought, John managed to save an additional €4,700 on nitrogen costs. This reduction in nitrogen usage also resulted in an additional 1% decrease in overall GHG emissions.
Reflecting on their achievements, John emphasised, “Overall I have saved €12,700 and reduced my overall farm emissions by 5%, by changing fertiliser product and reducing my nitrogen application slightly for every grazing round.” He views the decision to switch to protected urea as pivotal and plans to continue with this sustainable practice, affirming, “Ordering protected urea will be the first phone call I will make for the year!”
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