Author Posts: Sarah Kidby
Govt sets out plan to tackle BTV-3 outbreak
24th May 2024
The government has set out its plan for tackling an outbreak of BTV-3 this summer, as it works to deploy a vaccine.
JUNE 2024
How to maximise spring barley this season
24th May 2024
An unusually wet spring meant there was very little spring barley in the ground by mid-April, when a press briefing saw experts share top tips on maximising the crop – as well as a new barley resource for growers and agronomists. Sarah Kidby reports.
General Election 2024: What could the next govt mean for farming?
23rd May 2024
As the General Election is set for 4th July, Labour is currently leading the opinion polls. We explore what happens next, and what farmers would like to see from the next government.
New BTV-3 vaccines authorised in Europe
23rd May 2024
Two vaccines are now available for BTV-3, which first emerged late last year, and have been granted emergency authorisation in two countries.
SFI offer “hugely expanded” from July
21st May 2024
Defra has quadrupled the actions available to farmers, and added a new, expanded offer for upland farmers, as well as agroforestry and precision farming actions.
New planning rules come into force
21st May 2024
From today (21st May), changes to planning rules make it easier to convert unused farm buildings into new homes, farm shops and gyms, Defra has announced.
Govt to crack down on solar panels projects on prime farmland
20th May 2024
Local councils will be advised not to approve solar panels on high quality farmland unless “necessary” according to a written ministerial statement laid before parliament.
Act now as blowfly risk rises across UK
16th May 2024
Action is needed now to prevent blowfly strike as red alerts are being sent to farmers across the South, Midlands and Eastern UK.
Carbon credits: A threat or opportunity for farmers?
14th May 2024
With recent figures showing over half of farm sales last year were to non-farmers, and reports of farmers being outbid for land that is being put into woodland or other offsetting projects, we explore the threats and opportunities of these schemes.
Hundreds of CNH Industrial workers to go on strike
8th May 2024
Over 500 CNH Industrial workers – comprising nearly the entire shop floor of the Basildon factory which produces New Holland tractors – are striking during May over a pay dispute.
MAY 2024
Native beef breeds: An opportunity for farmers?
2nd May 2024
Despite many of the UK’s native cattle breeds being at real risk of extinction, they could help to meet the country’s environmental goals whilst reducing input costs for farmers, as they are well adapted to low-input systems. Additionally, native breeds can offer greater nutritional value and superior flavour. Sarah Kidby reports.
Soil leaching threatens animal health after turnout
29th April 2024
After relentless heavy rainfall, nutrition specialists are concerned about forage quality due to mineral leaching from the soil.