Robert Molloy
Ceist:285 Mr. Molloy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry the progress, if any, that has been made in the current investigation into the overgrazing problem in County Mayo. [13177/96]
Written Answers. - Overgrazing in County Mayo.
The scientific information available on the problem of overgrazing is limited. Against this background Teagasc is carrying out research, mainly at its Hill Sheep Farm, Leenane, County Mayo, to determine the effect of controlled sheep grazing on hill vegetation. This research commenced in 1995. As a result it is far too soon to draw any conclusions. However, details of the physical features and a baseline of the vegetative cover have been established. Initial results were published in the spring 1996 issue of Teagasc's publication "Farm & Food".
Teagasc, in conjunction with UCD, has initiated a broader study to evaluate changes in soil, water and vegetation cover on mountain, hill and blanket peat in areas representative of the whole of the west of Ireland. This project is co-funded by my Department and the EU through the research stimulus fund provided for under the Operational Programme for Agriculture, Rural Development and Forestry.
I am confident the findings of this research programme will provide vital, scientifically-based technical guidelines for future policy measures.