Search on for FBD Young Farmer of the Year 2015

The search is on to find the top young Irish farmer. Macra na Feirme has launched this year's FBD Young Farmer of the Year award and the winner will be crowned in September. This is the 17th year of the competition which is aimed at farmers under 35 years who have at least three years' experience in agriculture.

The format has been changed this year as representatives from each farming sector will be chosen in every county before being whittled down to six for the final.

President of Macra na Feirme, Kieran O’Dowd, said the organisers wanted to recognise young farmers’ achievements in all farming enterprises: “The success of the agricultural industry relies on the contribution of all young farmers.

“It’s a positive and exciting time in farming and this competition is an ideal platform to highlight the strength and ambition of the industry,” he said.

Entrants are judged according to criteria such as innovation, efficiency, farm safety, environmental protection awareness and community involvement.

The top prize is a travel bursary to allow the winner look at farming practices abroad.

The competition is also supported by IFA and its president Eddie Downey encourage young farmers to put their name forward. Farmers can also be nominated for the award.

The current Young Farmer of the Year is Seán O’Donnell, a dairy farmer from Ballina, Co Mayo .

The closing date for applications is May 29th.