Natural resources

How to account for winter rainfall in nutrient management plans

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 09:05:44 GMT

How to account for winter rainfall in nutrient management plans

North Essex Monitor Farm – Ditch and drainage management

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 17:02:08 GMT

Join us at Shore Hall Estate for a practical, on-farm session focused on ditch and drainage management.

We will begin with breakfast before heading out into the field to look at the recent ditch and drainage work carried out across the estate. This will be an opportunity to see the work first-hand and discuss the approach taken with the contractors involved, including practical considerations, challenges and lessons learned.

While on farm, we will also take the opportunity to look at the crops and hear from the farm's agronomist about key considerations for the upcoming season.

This will be a practical, discussion-led morning with plenty of opportunity for questions and shared experiences.

Please bring suitable footwear and clothing for this on farm meeting.

Amy Catling
Senior Knowledge Exchange Manager – Cereals & Oilseeds

Norwich Monitor Farm: Ditch and drain management – Practical solutions for a changing climate

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 14:37:40 GMT

Join us for our next Norwich Monitor Farm meeting, where we’ll take a practical, on-farm look at ditch and drain management and explore how growers can build greater resilience into their land.

We’ll begin the session out in the field, visiting an area of the host farm that has historically presented drainage challenges.

Together, we’ll discuss:

How the site has developed over time
What has contributed to the issues
Practical steps being considered to future-proof the area in the face of increasingly unpredictable weather patterns

Back in the meeting room, we’ll continue the conversation with a focus on:

Effective ditch and drain maintenance
Management strategies
The role of good records and long-term planning in protecting soil health, crop performance and farm infrastructure

There will also be an important update on the Advanced Water Industry National Environment Programme (A-WINEP) grant scheme, which will open for applications at the end of January.

The scheme supports projects that:

Improve water quality
Reduce pollution risks
Deliver wider environmental benefits across catchments

Please arrive at 9:30am to start at 10:00am. We will finish with lunch at 1:00pm.

Please bring suitable footwear and clothing for a farm walk.

Amy Catling
Senior Knowledge Exchange Manager – Cereals & Oilseeds

Building resilient arable systems: Long-term no-till, biologicals and foliar nutrition in practice

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 14:33:07 GMT

Join us at this on-farm meeting led by Geoff Homer, George Hosier and Ben Arthur.

We will be discussing:

Long-term direct drilling – review, outcomes and lessons learned.
Integrating grazing into arable systems
Foliar nitrogen – melting urea
Soil biology, brewing biologicals and on-farm microbiology

The presentations will be insightful and backed by data, providing the opportunity to question the outcomes of their collective learnings.

The presentations will be practical and followed by a farm walk (weather permitting).

Lunch will be provided and BASIS and NRoSO points will be awarded.

David Hunter
Knowledge Exchange Manager - Cereals & Oilseeds

Whole farm regenerative grazing for upland livestock systems

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 09:44:54 GMT

A practical introduction to increasing farm resilience and productivity through regenerative grazing and ecosystem management

Together with Pasture for Life, we're delighted to invite you to join this thought-provoking workshop with industry renowned consultant Caroline Grindrod and beef and sheep farmer Nick Prince.

Agenda

In the morning, Caroline will explore why regenerative grazing works best when applied as a whole-farm system rather than a set of isolated practices.

Drawing on her experience across UK uplands, she'll cover:

Why soil, plant, animal and farm ecosystems are interlinked and why understanding these connections matters for reducing inputs and increasing productivity
The role soil biology plays in pasture health and farm viability
Principles of adaptive grazing management for hill and upland systems
Why regenerative farming requires systems thinking, not just new techniques
Building farm business resilience in the face of policy change and climate uncertainty

After lunch, Caroline will explain how she works with individual farms to apply these principles within their specific context – landscape, stock type, labour availability and business goals.

This isn't a one-size-fits-all approach, it's about reading your own land and making decisions that fit your situation.

We'll then relocate to a nearby upland hill farm, kindly hosted by Yorkshire Dales beef and sheep farmer Nick Prince, where we'll see some of these ideas in practice, learn more about the farm and discuss his experiences.

Register

To attend you must register in advance.

Please let us know of any dietary requirements when you book your place.

Final confirmation and event information will be shared before the event.

Caroline Grindrod

Caroline is a trainer, consultant and coach supporting livestock farmers to transition to regenerative agricultural systems.

She uses her 'ROOTED framework' and a whole-system design approach to help farmers work with their individual unique contexts rather than against them.

With a background in environmental conservation and hill farming in the Yorkshire Dales and Lake District, Caroline has worked with farms across thousands of acres of UK uplands, from Welsh mountains to Scottish Highlands.

Somerset: More from less – making the most of your soils

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 16:23:30 GMT

Join Terrafarmer and LEAF farmers Rob Addicott and Jeremy Padfield for a practical on‑farm event digging deep into soil biology.

We'll assess the opportunities and potential cost saving and efficiency improvements in the latest biological fertiliser technologies.

Agenda

10:30am Arrival and refreshments

11:00am Stratton Farms background and introduction

Rob and Jeremy will outline their 2350-acre mixed farm partnership with a focus on their 440 acres of permanent pasture, red clover and herb legume leys.

They are advocates of regular testing of nutrients and organic matter in order understand their soils and to help make their businesses more resilient and sustainable.

11:30am Terrafarmer soil biology and Stratton Farms analysis results

Terrafarmer will present the farm’s recent soil analysis results and outline a ‘What next?’ action plan, including:

Identifying opportunities from the soil data
Potential cost savings and efficiency gains from current biological fertiliser technologies
Approaches to nitrogen reduction and nutrient management
Strategies to support soil health improvement and long‑term farm productivity

12:15pm Lunch

12:45pm Farm walk and Q&A

The guided farm walk will provide an opportunity to see practical examples of the systems discussed, including:

Soil structure, biology and nutrient status in different fields
Establishment and performance of herbal leys
Discussion around nutrient cycling, water quality and grazing management
Demonstration of Tow & Fert machinery

2:00pm Event close

This event qualifies for BASIS points.

Cornwall: More from less - making the most of your soils

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 13:31:50 GMT

Join Terrafarmer and renowned Cornish butcher, James Kittow, for a practical on‑farm event digging deep into soil biology.

We will assess the opportunities and potential cost saving and efficiency improvements in the latest biological fertiliser technologies.

Agenda

10.30 – Arrival and refreshments

11:00 – Kilhallon Farm background and introduction

James Kittow will outline his 130‑acre suckler enterprise and butchery. He will discuss the farm’s current focus on improving productivity on a low input grass-fed system including bale grazing, herbal leys and catch crop kale.

11.30 – Terrafarmer soil biology and Kilhallon Farm analysis results

Terrafarmer will present the farm’s recent soil analysis results and outline a ‘What next?’ action plan, including:

Identifying opportunities from the soil data
Potential cost savings and efficiency gains from current biological fertiliser technologies
Approaches to nitrogen reduction and nutrient management
Strategies to support soil health improvement and long‑term farm productivity

12:15 – Lunch

12:45 – Farm walk and Q&A

The guided farm walk will provide an opportunity to see practical examples of the systems discussed, including:

Soil structure, biology and nutrient status in different fields
Establishment and performance of herbal leys and catch crops
Bale grazing sites and their impact on soil condition
Discussion around nutrient cycling, water quality and grazing management
Demonstration of Tow & Fert machinery

14:00 - Event close

This event qualifies for BASIS points

Land drainage and its role in farming’s future

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 11:22:29 GMT

Join us for a Kent Monitor Farm meeting in association with the East Stour Farmer Group

Guest speaker, Nuffield Scholar Rob Burtonshaw

Drawing on worldwide research and practical on-farm experience, Rob will explore how effective drainage can unlock soil performance, improve yields and support targeted areas for biodiversity and integrated pest management —maximising the holistic value of the farmed environment.

The event will include a farm walk and lunch, with opportunities for discussion and questions throughout.

BASIS & NRoSO points will be available.

David Hunter
Knowledge Exchange Manager - Cereals & Oilseeds

East Sussex: NFU Water Quality Meeting

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 14:46:28 GMT

Join NFU for an informative and practical session where we’ll explore the latest developments in water quality and how they impact farming.

With recent changes to the Farming Rules for Water and further regulatory changes on the horizon, now is the perfect time to get up to speed on what this means for your business.

We’re delighted to welcome experts from:

• Environment Agency – sharing insights on water testing and compliance

• AHDB – offering practical advice on slurry management

• Local Water Companies – discussing key issues and solutions

This is a great opportunity to hear directly from specialists, ask questions, and gain actionable advice to help you stay ahead.

After the meeting, enjoy a complimentary lunch and, weather permitting, an optional farm visit.

Surrey: NFU Water Quality Meeting

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 14:21:31 GMT

Join NFU for an informative and practical session where we’ll explore the latest developments in water quality and how they impact farming.

With recent changes to the Farming Rules for Water and further regulatory changes on the horizon, now is the perfect time to get up to speed on what this means for your business.

We’re delighted to welcome experts from:

• Environment Agency – sharing insights on water testing and compliance

• AHDB – offering practical advice on slurry management

• Local Water Companies – discussing key issues and solutions

This is a great opportunity to hear directly from specialists, ask questions, and gain actionable advice to help you stay ahead.

After the meeting, enjoy a complimentary lunch and, weather permitting, an optional farm visit.

The revised Environmental Improvement Plan

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 14:43:36 GMT

The revised Environmental Improvement Plan

Grazing for growth: sheep and arable working together

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 13:55:10 GMT

Join us for “Grazing for growth: sheep and arable working together” at Bryce Mackellar’s farm in Stafford.

This practical, farmer-focused event will showcase how integrating sheep into arable rotations can boost soil health, improve crop performance, and support ewe nutrition over winter. Through a guided farm walk, expert-led workshops, and plenty of networking, attendees will explore the real-world benefits of grazing cover crops, fodder beet, and early-stage cereals.

Whether you’re an arable farmer looking to enhance sustainability, a sheep farmer seeking better grazing options, or an adviser working in regenerative systems, this event offers valuable insight and collaboration opportunities. Come along to learn, share experiences, and see mixed farming in action.

What the meeting will cover

Benefits of sheep grazing on cover crops and early-stage arable crops
Impacts on tillering, weed control, and crop performance
Soil health improvements from integrating livestock
Nutritional strategies for pregnant ewes grazing stubble turnips/fodder beet
Knowledge exchange between arable and livestock farmers
Practical demonstrations during the farm walk

Speakers

Amanda Bennett – Senior Environment Manager (soil health & nutrient management)
Bek Hirstman – Agronomy & Environment Manager
Nerys Wright – Sheep consultant

Session timings

10:00 – Arrival
10:30 – Housekeeping and introductions
10:45 – Presentations – providing the context
12:00 – Lunch and networking
12:50 – Leave for farm walk
13:00 – Farm walk
15:00 – Close

Are there any points available?

BASIS

Is the event free to attend?

Yes - funded by your levy

Food available & time

Lunch provided at 12:00

Pembrokeshire, Wales Monitor Farm Network - Soil health with David Purdy

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 14:36:49 GMT

Join us at Trewarren Farm in Pembrokeshire for our second monitor farm network in Wales with Farming Connect.

We will be looking at soil health, compaction with David Purdy. As well as the Micronutrient project on farm with Farming Connect.

Main content.

Speaker David Purdy
Soil Health
Soil Compaction
Micronutrient project from Farming Connect.

The event will include a farm walk, giving attendees the opportunity see the machinery.

Please do register for us to cater accordingly.

Aaron Cantrill
Knowledge Exchange Manager – Cereals & Oilseeds

North Lancashire: Improving soils by breaking the phosphate cycle

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 13:37:19 GMT

Phosphate – what does this do for the soil, why is it important, why is it important to keep at safe levels?

Book your place and come to hear and chat with James Bretherton about phosphates and his views.

What you will learn:

James will be looking at the phosphate cycle from imported to hitting the ground in the Northwest region and looking at how that impacts soil health and ultimately locking up nutrients which then affects the animals grazing

We look forward to seeing you at Casterton Golf Club – book your space now.

South Lancashire: Improving soils by breaking the phosphate cycle

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 11:07:02 GMT

Phosphate – what does this do for the soil, why is it important, why is it important to keep at safe levels?

Book your place and come to hear and chat with James Bretherton about phosphates and his views.

What you will learn:

James will be looking at the phosphate cycle from imported to hitting the ground in the Northwest region and looking at how that impacts soil health and ultimately locking up nutrients which then affects the animals grazing

We look forward to seeing you at The Nab's Head – book your space now.

Using tech to talk to soils

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 10:01:45 GMT

Using tech to talk to soils

Cumbria: Improving soils by breaking the phosphate cycle

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 13:23:19 GMT

Phosphate – what does this do for the soil, why is it important, why is it important to keep at safe levels?

Book your place and come to hear and chat with James Bretherton and Richard Lane about phosphates and their views.

What you will learn:

James will be looking at the phosphate cycle from imported to hitting the ground in the Northwest region and looking at how that impacts soil health and ultimately locking up nutrients which then affects the animals grazing
Richard Lane from the Dairy Group will be looking at livestock nutrition and how keeping everything in check can boost productivity and ultimately margins

We look forward to seeing you at Wigton Mart – book your space now.

FAQs for farming rules for water statutory guidance update

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 16:46:00 GMT

FAQs for farming rules for water statutory guidance update

Livestock slurry – Your liquid asset

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 07:49:00 GMT

Livestock slurry – Your liquid asset

Kingsclere: Soil Resilience Workshop - Addressing Poaching and Pan Disruption

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 08:11:32 GMT

David Purdy explores the effects of soil treatments applied before the winter grazing season and their performance in reducing the damage caused to soils by poaching and panning.

We’ll be looking at physical, chemical and biological treatments to the soil and their effect on soil compaction.

This will be a practical demonstration with an emphasis on promoting and maintaining soil health.

This event is free to attend running from 10am – 2pm including lunch and BASIS/NRoSo points are available.

David Hunter
Knowledge Exchange Manager - Cereals & Oilseeds