The project aimed to document traditional farming practices as forms of living cultural and environmental heritage. Three case study farms were selected, each focusing on a distinct traditional farming practices and selected to represent diverse geographical, regional, and farming contexts. The case studies comprised:
The three farms were visited by the project field team consisting of Eve Campbell (heritage advisor) and Kevin Handy (videographer) in June–July 2026. During the visits the team were given tours of the individual farms and carried out videoed interviews with the participating farmers, focusing on their specific heritage practice. The interviews were semi-structured, with set questions designed to focus on the key project themes. The farmers gave demonstrations of their specific heritage practice which were documented by Kevin Handy using video and photography.
After the fieldwork portion of the project was concluded, work on the videos began. The interviews were transcribed by Kevin Handy using appropriate software. The transcripts were then reviewed by Eve Cambell, who advised on the content and structure of the short videos. Kevin Handy edited the footage captured during fieldwork to produce three short videos combining the recorded interviews and footage of the heritage practices.
In addition, a short case-study text was prepared on each farm by Eve Campbell, Each case study text is approximately 500 words long and provides an accessible overview of each heritage practice in its farming and landscape setting. The case studies place the heritage practices in their modern context, looking at the place of heritage practices in the future of farming. The case studies also include short reference and links sections for readers who wish to find out more about each heritage practice.
The videos and case study texts have been made publicly accessible through the Talamh Beo website. The material is hosted on a dedicated section of the website, accompanied by photographs by Kevin Handy and selected supporting archival material where relevant. This digital resource has been promoted through the organisation’s network.
During Heritage Week each farmer hosted themed guided farm walks that were open and advertised to the public. The walks were advertised on social media and locally via project posters displaying the Heritage Council logo. The walks provided an opportunity to the public to engage directly with the traditional farm practices in a working farm setting.
This series of case studies have been created to support new & existing farmers in Ireland. You can view individual case studies online or view & download the entire booklet here.
