Successful recruitment drive for on-farm trials
The number of farmers applying to take part in trials with the British On-Farm Innovation Network (BOFIN) in 2024-5 more than doubled this year, reflecting a growing understanding of the contribution of on-farm trials to agricultural innovation.
BOFIN coordinates trials for three major Defra-funded projects exploring the potential of pulses, sustainable slug control and soil and root health. This summer the team launched a campaign to recruit the next intake of farmers and was delighted by the response.
Oxfordshire farmer and BOFIN founder Tom Allen-Stevens said: “With all the challenges and unknowns our industry is facing it is very positive to see that farmers recognise the value of research. It’s meant that we have now filled all the available slots on our projects for 2024-5 and look forward to working with our new trialists as well as those who are continuing from last year.”
For each of the projects participating farmers are given training and support to undertake trials in their own fields and take responsibility to collect and submit data.
In return farmer trialists are paid and also benefit from the detailed analysis and information they receive.
“BOFIN was founded on the belief that farmers must contribute to the development of agricultural innovations if they are to be of true value. However, like any professionals we shouldn’t be expected to contribute without being rewarded, so all our farmers are paid a fee for their time and input.”
Plans are now underway to develop the fine detail of next year’s trials ahead of autumn drilling.
For more information on BOFIN‘s projects click here