Lean farming at Glasraí Organic Farm
OGI Network Coordinator Kitty Scully reports from our first on-farm event of 2025, at Glasraí Organic Farm where lean principles are being applied across all areas, from workflow and labour to harvest and packing systems, sales models, equipment and infrastructure.
What a fantastic turnout and an inspiring, information packed day at our first OGI Network farm walk of the season, hosted by Glasraí in Co. Mayo yesterday. Despite the torrential rain, the group remained completely engaged as Joe and Aoife guided over 20 farmers and growers through their impressive 7-acre farm—featuring five polytunnels, a market garden, field-scale crops and a well-equipped packing shed that also served as our classroom for introductions.
The day focused on Lean Farming—a practical approach to improving efficiency—which sparked lively and valuable discussions. Joe and Aoife shared their experience and the realities of scaling up, growing from one tunnel and a third of an acre to five polytunnels, seven acres in production, and a team of ten in the past 10 years.
Their insights covered everything from crop planning, soil health, planning rotations, machinery, growing techniques to managing teams, sales models, marketing, packing systems and maintaining a work-life balance.
What makes these Network farm walks truly special is the depth of peer-to-peer learning. Everyone brought something to the field with participants ranging from those just starting out to seasoned growers with decades of experience.
A heartfelt thank you to Joe, Aoife and their incredible team (including OGI intern, Brian), and to all the participants who contributed to making the day so meaningful and memorable.
