Another successful Farming Conference for Lincolnshire! 12 Feb

Future farming opportunities, biodiversity and carbon were the key discussion points at the Lincolnshire Farming Conference held this week (Thursday 8th February 2024) at the Lincolnshire Showground.

Hosted by the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society, the annual conference saw farmers, exhibitors and industry experts come together to openly discuss the opportunities the agricultural industry is being given and how we can really integrate the opportunities we have been presented with.

With talks from captivating speakers and interactive workshops this one-day event held at the Lincolnshire Showground’s EPIC Centre, covered topics looking at the future of the agricultural industry, the new Government targets and why now is the most challenging time to be involved in the farming sector.

David Webster, Chief Executive Officer for LEAF, gave the keynote speech and talked about current challenges within the industry, how things are changing and how engagement with sustainability is no longer optional.

David said: “It was a great privilege to join the 2024 Lincolnshire Farming Conference and to have the opportunity to meet so many forward-thinking farmers from across the region. There is no question that farming faces some enormous challenges currently, but the overriding message from all speakers was remarkably positive about the opportunities that also exist for farms to support decarbonisation and nature recovery on a significantly increased scale.”

“It really does feel as though we are on the cusp of momentous change in our approach to food production and the adoption of nature-based solutions in that context. It was a wonderful day and I extend my sincere thanks to the organising committee for putting on such a great event – despite the snow!”

This year’s conference had a strong focus on what opportunities are available within the industry at a time where direct payments to farmers are reducing. With talks from industry experts, including, Liz Bowles from Carbon Cutting Toolbox, Janet Hughes represented the Department for Environmental Food & Rural Affairs and Michael Kavanagh from the Green Farm Collective.

Sponsors of the event, Shakespeare Martineau, Streets Chartered Accountants and Brown & Co & JH Walter held a workshop for delegates on the topic of BNG, Carbon Voluntary Bio-diversity markets. Anglian Water and the University also hosted alongside with 'Practical steps to building farm resilience'. Workshops are free for delegates to attend and gave the opportunity to ask for specific guidance.

Kelly Hewson-Fisher, Chair of the Lincolnshire Farming Conference committee, said:

“Reflecting on another excellent Lincolnshire Farming Conference which focused on Future Farming Opportunities: Biodiversity and Carbon. For anyone who has been involved in organising a conference, they will know this really is a huge team effort. Thank you’s in abundance to the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society, the Lincolnshire Showground, the Lincolnshire Farming Conference Steering Group, the exhibitors and the sponsors. Without whom, the day would not run.”

“Our aim is that everyone goes away having learnt something and is a little more informed and from the feedback received so far, the conference has succeeded.”

“Agriculture is going through a challenging and changing time, at the heart of which needs to be profitability, sustainability, food production and environmental protection and recovery. Land managers and owners are a key cog in this big wheel and the Lincolnshire Farming Conference will continue to bring experts and specialists to the County to support decision making for the future.”

“A big thank you to the speakers who give their time freely to help and support attendees navigate through these challenging times, it is very much appreciated. The atmosphere at the start of the conference was electric with anticipation and this did not wane throughout the event.”

The Lincolnshire Showground is well placed geographically with the Conference attracting attendees and exhibitors from across the Midlands and further afield. Sponsors of the event included CLAAS, University of Lincoln Agri-Food Department, Woldmarsh Producers Ltd, Streets Chartered Accountants, Anglian Water, OMEX Agricultural, Brown & Co & JH Walter, Dallas Scott Davey and Shakespeare Martineau.

Those who were not able to attend the conference you can watch highlights on YouTube here - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX7wm6cthiwPc9ejUHLXhY3SLOydTk4hf

You can also view photography from the event you can view here using code 'Showground24' https://cvphotos.photoshelter....