Developing Grass Expertise programme 2021-2022

The 2021-22 Developing Grass Expertise Programme (DGE) programme aims to recruit anyone looking to develop their knowledge, skills and competence to produce and utilise grazed grass and silage to help support levy payers.

*Applications for the first group is now closed – please keep an eye for the next window of applications*

Grassland is a fundamental crop for British agriculture and covers 64% of all agricultural land. One of AHDB’s priorities is to improve Farm Performance and grassland underpins the ruminant sectors. One of the key ways to deliver this priority is for AHDB to ensure that experienced consultants and advisers continue to be available to the dairy, beef and sheep industry and help upskill this network in grassland management techniques.  

The 2021-22 DGE aims to produce a group of trained consultants and advisers. It is therefore important that anyone applying for this programme is available to deliver support around grazing management once the programme has been completed.  

A total of five sessions will take place over the 12-month programme, covering various topics around grassland productivity/management, these include: 

• Economics of grass as part of the system
• Grazing management and tools
• Nutrition & fertility at grass
• Winter feeding options (e.g., all grass outwintering)
• Animal & soil health
• Breeding and genetics 
• Professional skills e.g., communication, facilitation, presentation, knowledge dissemination