WELL done to Max Solan Clinton who won Teagasc’s ‘Equine Farming and Biodiversity’ 2022 photo competition. From Boyle, Co Roscommon, Max’s winning image was selected from over 150 diverse images featuring examples of biodiversity in harmony with equines on farms around the country and earned him vouchers valued at €250.

Teagasc Countryside Management Specialist Catherine Keena said: “The photo shows a vegetated margin with flowering grasses and broadleaved plants, which support a wide range of wildlife. Seed eating birds such as goldfinch and linnet feed on small grass seeds, while butterflies such as Meadow Brown and Speckled Wood lay their eggs and their larvae feed on tall grasses.”

Teagasc Equine Specialists Wendy Conlon and Seán Keane added their congratulations saying, “Max’s photo resonated with the judges for its simplicity yet captivation of the landscape and most particularly demonstrating the biodiversity value of field margins.”

In second place is Kristine O’Neill from Ardrahan, Co Galway, who will receive vouchers valued at €150. Brian Morgan from Ennistymon, Co Clare, placed third and will receive vouchers valued at €100.

Teagasc sincerely thanks all participants for taking the time to enter and wishes everyone continued enjoyment of their surroundings, while encouraging all to strive to both sustain and improve biodiversity on their farms. The winning photos can be viewed at www.teagasc.ie/equinecomp.

Round-up

Schull Show

Irish Draughts

IRISH Draught mare owners will be rearing to go too to Schull Show which takes place on Sunday, July 24th in the local town park, as the feature event will be the €1,500 Irish Draught broodmare class, sponsored by Horse Sport Ireland.

“We’re very grateful for their continued support and the prize money in this class for registered Irish Draught mares goes to sixth place. The aim of this class for us is to encourage our West Cork breeders to get back into the game of breeding and showing and to acknowledge those who have continued interest in our native breed.”

With 44 classes from Irish Draughts, thoroughbreds, working hunters, lead-rein, miniatures and donkeys, plus the farmers market, there will be something for all at Schull.