Farming Conference to tackle the big issues in 2016 04 Feb

Breaking world records, developing technical solutions and planning for the future in the agricultural industry are some of the key topics that will be discussed at the Lincolnshire Farming Conference this year.

Making its return to the Lincolnshire Showground on March 1, the conference is highly anticipated as the go to event for all the latest news, discussions and more for Lincolnshire’s agricultural industry.

Steve Ward, Chairman of the LAS Education Committee, said: “Being a county with such an important and large agricultural community, we felt it was essential to have a farming conference on home soil, hence with partners, we set up the Farming Conference. Now in its second year, I look forward to welcoming those within the industry who now see this event as key in their annual events calendar.

“We had a tremendous amount of positive feedback from both speakers and attendees last year. We pride ourselves on tackling the big issues and questions on the industry’s lips and throughout the day there will be chances to speak to individual companies at their stands and also sign in to gain Basis and NRoSO points too.

“This year’s highlights will include an in-depth look of what it is like to work with farmers – from a farmer’s perspective, how we can engage more with the next generation, and looking at transferring agricultural research into practical agronomy advice.”

The Farming Conference opens to attendees from 2.30pm until 8pm with a welcome from chairs Chris Godson and Andrew Ward at 3pm.

Jim Godfrey OBE, DSc, chair of the UK Sustainable Agri-Food Innovation Platform, will be sharing his expertise at the conference.

The North Lincolnshire based farmer has sat as Chair of the International Potato Center (CIP), the Scottish Crop Research Institute (SCRI), the UK Potato Marketing Board, among others before taking up his current position as chairman of the International Rice Research Institute – the largest agriculture research organisation in the world. He will be discussing the latest news and issues facing farmers today.

Other speakers will include Tim Lamyman, James Dallas, and a key note paper from Caroline Drummond,who is the CEO of LEAF.

The Lincolnshire Showground is well placed geographically attracting attendees and exhibitors across the Midlands and further afield. Sponsors of the Lincolnshire Farming Conference include HSBC, Streets Chartered Accountants, Brown & Co, Andrew & Co LLP and more.

Steve added: “The Farming Conference is not just about attracting those already in the industry,but we are keen to welcome more students and young people interested in farming to offer them an insight into current agricultural issues.

“It is important to make sure we reach the next generation to ensure that Lincolnshire continues to be a national leader in agriculture.”

Refreshments and a Lincolnshire hog roast will be available for attendees after the afternoon sessions.

Tickets cost £12 for adults, £6 for students with members going free. Buy your tickets here!

For regular updates follow the Farming Conference on Twitter @LincsShowground or join the conversation at #LFC2016