LEAF Technical Field Day, April 7, 2011

Posted 9 March 2011

Farmers will be able to learn about the latest research in sustainable agriculture when Harper Adams University College hosts its first LEAF Technical Field Day on April 7.

The event, ‘Profitable Farming and the Environment’, will see a variety of experts give 10 minute talks along two guided routes around the campus, with lively debate and interaction encouraged.

In-field demonstrations will help farmers improve their efficiency, productivity, profitability, environmental protection and enhancement of dairy, pig, horticulture and arable enterprises.

Dr Heidi Cunningham, from the Crops Department at the University College in Shropshire, said: “Here at Harper Adams, we embrace the principals of Integrated Farm Management, from the way we farm to the way we produce energy for the campus.

“We’re keen to disseminate our research, such as our work monitoring the methane output of dairy cows, with Professor Liam Sinclair on hand to discuss ‘carbon hoofprints’ with visitors on the day.”

Other speakers at the event will be looking at topics such as how to reduce the environmental impact of pig production, using sustainable irrigation and improving soil through the use of anaerobic digestate.

LEAF (Linking Environment And Farming), help farmers adopt more sustainable farming practices through Integrated Farm Management (IFM).  It produces a wide range of resources and training to help farmers maintain profitability as well as improve the environment. 

LEAF also builds public understanding and trust of food and farming in a number of ways, including Open Farm Sunday and visits to their national network of Demonstration Farms and Innovation Centres. 

Harper Adams has been a LEAF Innovation Centre since 2003. These centres research and pioneer new approaches in sustainable land management through practical experimentation.

Kathryn Mitchell, IFM Development Coordinator at LEAF, said: “We’re delighted to be working with Harper Adams to help encourage an understanding of the latest technologies and innovations within the farming industry. 

“We have a great line-up of speakers, together with practical demonstrations that will help farmers identify cost saving measures that they can implement on their own farms. 

“We hope the day will give farmers a lot to think about and equip them with the skills and know-how to tackle some of the industry’s current challenges including water management, reducing energy use and biofuels.”

The event, sponsored by BOCM Pauls, DairyCo and Väderstad, is free to LEAF members, although non-members are welcomed at a charge of £25. By attending the event, visitors will be eligible for NroSO and BASIS points.

For a more information, details of the speakers and to book your place, please visit http://www.leafuk.org/resources/000/578/372/LEAF_Technical_Field_Day_-_7th_April_2011.pdf or contact the LEAF office tel: 024 7641 3911

LEAF Technical Field Day – ‘Profitable Farming and the Environment’
Harper Adams University College,
Newport, Shropshire
Thursday, April 7, 2011
10am-2pm.