NFU sets out research priorities for farming

If farming is to meet the challenges of producing more food while impacting less on the environment it is vital that research and development in agricultural science is given a prominent role, a major conference will hear.

Dr Helen Ferrier, the NFU’s chief science and regulatory affairs adviser, will be one of the keynote speakers at the Westminster Food & Nutrition Forum seminar on food security, innovation and research.

Dr Ferrier said: "Research priorities for farming are about developing better breeds and varieties - improving the genetics - allied to improved management practices, agronomy and husbandry, so farmers can achieve that genetic potential in a commercial context. Key elements in this are pest and disease resistance and control; efficient use of nutrients, feed, water, pesticides, energy or light by the plant or animal; using technology and machinery to increase efficiency and target inputs; and reducing waste from the system.

"However, for this to work on a commercial scale and to have industry-focussed research there must be effective knowledge exchange with farmers, identifiable networks of experts and research centres, and demonstration facilities. It also requires a common language, mutual respect and two-way communication between farmers, advisers and scientists.