Rotational diversity in focus at AHDB Groundswell sessions

Ana Reynolds, AHDB head of engagement, cereals & oilseeds

With the industry under pressure to remain productive and profitable, while lowering environmental impact, the expert-led debates will inspire farmers to try new approaches.

Visitors to the AHDB stand can also pick up copies of the new 50-year anniversary edition of the Nutrient Management Guide (RB209), discuss the current review of the Recommended Lists (RL) and discover how the organisation is working to address major cross-sector issues, such as helping farmers to make the most out of emerging natural capital markets.

Ana Reynolds, AHDB head of engagement, cereals & oilseeds, said: “These sessions will shine a light on a diverse array of innovative crop management practices, inspiring farmers and advisers to view unconventional solutions with a fresh perspective, helping to deliver both production and environmental benefits.”

Rotation – mind the gap! (28th June, 11:30am)

Chaired by John Pawsey of Shimpling Park Farm, this session will bring together Andy Bason from Newhouse Farm, Alice Andrews of Ceres Rural, and James Standen from Newcastle University Farms to focus on crop rotations.

The group will discuss the search for the ultimate ‘alternative’ break crop, showcasing the opportunities for profit to be made, whether it be from hemp and chia, or forage and grazing cereals.

Is perennial agriculture the future? (28th June, 3:30pm)

Abacus Agriculture’s Stephen Briggs will lead this discussion on how perennial agriculture will play an important part in the future of the industry.

David Miller from Wheatsheaf Farming, Emily Grant of Forrit & Coldrochie Farm, and Dom Amos from Organic Arable, will showcase the value and their experiences of growing perennial crops, including clover understoreys, grass, kernza and agroforestry.

Genetic diversity of grains (29th June, 10:00am)

Chaired by Michael Marriage of Doves Farm Foods, this session will explore genetic diversity and the role it could play in profitable UK cereal production.

Dr Phil Howell from NIAB and Dr Ed Dickin from Harper Adams University will bring a scientific, evidence-based perspective, while Fred Price of Gothelney Farm will also provide first-hand experience of how diversity contributes to his farm’s journey towards agroecology.

Getting comfortable with composting (29th June, 2:00pm)

Chaired by the Organic Research Centre’s Dr Julia Cooper, this session will cover why and how farmers should get more familiar with composting.

Ben Taylor-Davies also known as RegenBen, Billy Lewis of Boycefield Farm and Andy Sincock from Agriton will discuss resource management, composting farmyard manure and bioreactors, and quantifying soil health benefits.

An audience with John Gilliland (29th June, 3:00pm)

AHDB is delighted that respected farmer, researcher and policy expert, Professor John Gilliland will contribute to an evidence-based debate on agriculture’s role in providing climate change solutions.

As former president of the Ulster Farmers’ Union and ex-Defra Rural Climate Change Forum chair, Professor Gilliland is working with AHDB’s environment team to support the development and delivery of the organisation’s environment action plan and will be on-hand to answer questions from the audience.

Find more information on what to expect at Groundswell Festival 2023.