The Museum of English Rural Life (MERL) is holding its Annual Lecture in the Great Hall at the University of Reading at 5pm on October 21st.
MERL, which is owned and managed by the University of Reading, is delighted that the talk "Farming and a sustainable countryside: how do we meet the challenge?" will be given this year by Dame Fiona Reynolds, Director-General of the National Trust.
In this fascinating free lecture, Dame Fiona will discuss the National Trust’s vision for farming which recognises the crucial importance of sustainable land management to future water supply, carbon storage, biodiversity and quality of life - as well as food production.
With 1,763 Farm Tenancy Agreements, the Trust has a vital role to play. In 2006, the Trust launched its Fine Farm Produce Awards - a special kitemark which can be awarded to the produce of National Trust farm tenants which meets stringent standards with respect to the environment, animal welfare and, crucially, taste.
Dame Fiona Reynolds DBE will touch upon these issues, as well as explaining the Trust’s response to what is undoubtedly the biggest challenge ever for the future of the countryside: climate change and its impacts.
Dame Fiona said: "The National Trust is the largest non-government landowner in the UK, managing more than 250,000 hectares of which around 80 per cent is farmed. But unlike other landowners, our land is held in perpetuity for the benefit of the nation. It is therefore important for us to understand what the nation needs from land, and how best to deliver it on the ground."
Kate Arnold-Forster, Director of MERL said: "We are absolutely delighted that Dame Fiona is our speaker this year. The annual MERL lecture was established by the University three years ago to mark the opening of the Museum’s new home. Our aim is to contribute to the national debate surrounding the future of the countryside and the promotion of wider understanding of issues relating to food, farming and rural life. The theme of the sustainable countryside is a topic that is central to our mission at the Museum."
The lecture is open to the public. Admission is free but a ticket is required. To find out more and to request a ticket, call 0118 378 8660, email merlevents@reading.ac.ukor visit our new website at www.reading.ac.uk/merl