AHDB Cereals & Oilseeds and AHDB Potatoes are uniting to showcase evidence-based developments in agronomy this December.
Initially a single day focused on cereals and oilseeds, a second potato-focused day has been added to the AHDB Agronomists’ Conference this year to bring extra rotational breadth to the event.
Tim Isaac, Head of Knowledge Exchange for AHDB Cereals & Oilseeds, said: “2016 sees the Agronomists’ Conference enter its tenth year.
“Since its introduction, the event has matured to become a staple in the agronomists’ calendar.
“Every aspect of the event is designed to make people think a little differently about agronomy and that has been its key to success.
“We are delighted to work with AHDB Potatoes to bring the latest technical developments to agronomists operating across the UK.”
‘Cross-sector’ activity
The expansion of the event to two days occurred following feedback given at the 2015 event. Almost half of the respondents said they would be interested in joint events with AHDB Potatoes.
Phil Burgess, Head of Knowledge Exchange for AHDB Potatoes, said: “The Agronomists’ Conference is an established event that delivers information on the latest technical efficiencies.
“We recognise the value of agronomists in translating highly technical information and repackaging it on behalf of their grower clients and see it in our strategic interests to work more closely with them.
“The inclusion of a second day focused on potatoes will be of tremendous benefit to all – not only to those who advise on potatoes – as there is so much to be learned from potato production systems and their place in the rotation.”
Save the dates
The AHDB Agronomists’ Conference will take place on Wednesday 7 to Thursday 8 December at Peterborough Arena.
The first day is dedicated to AHDB Potatoes and the second day to AHDB Cereals & Oilseeds.
For the potatoes, the event will replace the annual Winter Forum in the East, enhancing the offering previously provided by that single day.
Full programmes, as well as information on the conference theme, will be published early in the autumn.
Each day will include information on wider rotational issues (such as cover crops and soils), as well as pest, weed and pathogen management. The conference will also feature growers talking about the application of innovation on the farm.
AHDB plans to upload papers and videos to YouTube after the event to ensure as many people as possible have the opportunity to access the latest technical developments.
