Achieving more sustainable food and farming will only be possible through sound science that is firmly rooted in practical application.
This was the message delivered at LEAF’s inaugural Integrated Farm Management Conference last week.
Delegates heard about the use of LED lights to maximise growth and plant quality, the application of drones to improve yields, how biobeds and phytobacs are enabling farmers to reduce their environmental impact and the benefits of cover crops to farmers and wildlife.
This was followed by talks from LEAF Demonstration Farmers who highlighted how they were making IFM work for them.
Julian Davies from Stockbridge Technology Centre, one of LEAF’s Innovation Centres explained the advances that were being made in the horticultural sector.
For example, looking at LED lights and more sustainable growing media to push forward more sustainable methods of glasshouse production.
LEAF at the forefront of farming sustainably
Also speaking at the conference, Professor Dave Roberts, Head of SRUC Dairy Research said: "The framework of IFM had the potential to offer much to the livestock sector in terms of better grassland management systems, feeding and welfare", but acknowledged there was still a long way to go.
At the conference, which was introduced this year as part of LEAF’s 25th anniversary, the LEAF Information Centre was unveiled – an online information portal for LEAF members housing all of LEAF’s technical publications and a range of guides, assessments and videos on all aspects of IFM as well as some of the broader topics associated with sustainable agriculture.
Caroline Drummond, LEAF’s Chief Executive said: "LEAF has been at the forefront of delivering more sustainable food and farming for the past 25 years.
"We have spent this time defining the principles of IFM, building our knowledge generation and exchange activities, developing management tools and guidance for farmers, creating a robust and transparent global assurance system and delivering innovative public engagement activities.
"I am immensely proud of what we have achieved and hugely excited by the challenges that lie ahead.
"The practices and developments within IFM must continue to evolve and improve. Meeting the challenge of providing better nutrition for more people sustainably calls for joined-up research that takes an ecological approach, responds to people’s real needs and respects farmers’ know-how. Our Demonstration Farmers and Innovation Centres are key to making this happen."
'Vital to have access to latest technology'
Alice Mitchell, LEAF’s IFM Manager added: "Underpinning all our activities is our network of Demonstration Farmers and Innovation Centres.
"If farmers are to continue to farm more sustainably, then it is vital they have access to the very latest research and technologies as well as opportunities to share their own knowledge and expertise.
"This helps to drive forward real change and helps farmers seize opportunities and make meaningful and informed choices that will work for them and their businesses.
"Our Innovation Centres and Demonstration Farms represent some of the most forward looking scientists and farmers in the country.
"This feeds into the continual development of IFM to ensure it remains robust, relevant and able to address the challenges ahead in a way that is pragmatic and resilient to future uncertainties."
LEAF Demonstration Farmer, John Renner from Renner Farming in Northumberland concluded the afternoon talks by stating: "I have been amazed today to see the sheer diversity of farming enterprises represented by LEAF members and implementing IFM principles.
"There is a very positive future for farming in every sense. We can supply the food we need, protect and enhance the environment as well as offering some fantastic career opportunities for young people."
