Minutes, Inishowen Organic Group meeting

September  24th 2009

 

Present:  N. McLaughlin, M. Reilly, T. Morgan, L O’Connor, M McCaul, V Treanor, , J Craven

 

Apologies: ., M Smallwood, Stan McWilliams

 

 

Minutes of previous meeting read and approved.

 

Raif Shepherds Arbroteum

 

The Group discussed the summer trip to Raphoe to visit Raif Shepherd. Everyone agreed it was an enjoyable trip and a surprise stop at a stone circle was a special treat

 

Tree Planting

 

Noel discussed his intentions of setting up a coppice. He wants to plant ash & willow but has been advised by the Teagasc foresty officer(Steven Meyen) that if the soil is wet then ash would not be successful and that alder & willow could be an alternative. Michael stated that alder could generate sparks.

 

Mary mentioned Michael Henchill of Fanad to be quite knowledgable on the subject.

 

Bad Seeds?

Vincent discussed his garden and despite quite a lot of good prep work he had unsuccessful year germinating seeds. Many of the group had experienced similar problem with similar crops(onions, spuds, beetroot). Many members of the group had bought their seeds from a large diy store which would be wrong to state the name of but if you think hard enough...You can do it!

Greenhill farm could supply the group with seeds and it was advised to get your order ready for January and it would also support a local organic business.

 

Winter Veg

The question was raised about what veg could be grown for winter crops. Michael recommended Mange Tout, year round lettuce, Mazuma, chinese cabbage & white turnip.

 

Michael McCaul

As Michael is a very knowledgable chap on self sufficiency and has put this into practice at his home in Clonmany. There was particular interest when Michael mention he brews his own beer and cider.It was suggested that the group visit his homestead and learn from his efforts. Michael thought that springtime or summer would be a better time for a visit as everything is full flow.

 

Website Recommendations

 

http://www.arkwrightshomebrew.com/

 for man can live on love alone. This company sell all the equipment you need for making your own beer, wine, liqeurs & cider

The next meeting takes place a week earlier on the 29th October