Cloughjordan Community Farm

Cloughjordan Community Farm: A Living Model of Agroecological Practice in Ireland

Nestled in County Tipperary, Ireland, Cloughjordan Community Farm has been a beacon of agroecological innovation since its founding in 2009. Established by a diverse group of individuals drawn together by their passion for sustainable food systems, the farm is deeply rooted in the principles of ecological stewardship, local resilience, and community collaboration. Many of its founders were residents of the Cloughjordan Ecovillage, a groundbreaking initiative dedicated to building a sustainable, interconnected community.

“Our journey began with a town meeting, inviting everyone interested to explore whether we could create this farm together,” explains Wendy Bailey, a musician and primary school teacher who has been part of the project since its inception. “The motivation was clear: we wanted to grow our own food, reduce our dependence on long-distance supply chains, connect with the people growing our food, save seeds, and support local livelihoods.”

Cloughjordan Community Farm stands as Ireland’s largest example of a Community-Supported Agriculture (CSA) initiative. This agroecological approach fosters a direct partnership between producers and the wider community, emphasizing shared responsibility, equitable food distribution, and ecological sustainability. The farm champions practices that restore soil health, preserve biodiversity, and empower local food sovereignty while offering fresh, organic produce to its members.

By embodying the core values of agroecology, Cloughjordan Community Farm not only provides healthy food but also serves as a living laboratory for sustainable farming practices, inspiring communities across Ireland and beyond to rethink their relationship with food and the land.

Our goals go beyond just growing food. We see the farm as a place where people come together, build connections, and learn from one another. It’s a space where we can share the principles and practices of agroecology while strengthening our community and creating local opportunities. We’re not just growing crops—we’re growing a movement. Together, we’re proving that through collective action, we can build a healthier, fairer, and more resilient food system, one that inspires others to join us in creating lasting change.

Our vision at Cloughjordan Community Farm is to create a thriving, regenerative food system that puts ecological balance, community well-being, and resilience at its core. We dream of growing nutrient-rich, organic food right here in our community, freeing ourselves from the industrial food system and the long supply chains that harm both people and the planet. By restoring the health of our land, protecting biodiversity, and saving seeds, we aim to build a sustainable future—one that works in harmony with nature and ensures that future generations can thrive.