Author: Clemmie Gleeson

Categories
PROBITY

Promising news for precision breeding legislation

Daniel Zeichner MP
Daniel Zeichner MP
Zeichner commits to advance gene editing legislation, but gives no update on ADOPT

Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs Daniel Zeichner has announced he will be advancing precision breeding legislation in England ‘as soon as parliamentary time allows’. 

Speaking at the World Agri-Tech Innovation Summit (WATIS) in London on September 30, Mr Zeichner said that precision breeding technologies like gene editing could ‘transform the sector’ by making development of new varieties quicker, more efficient and precise.

But there was no news on ADOPT, a £40 million fund to support farmer-led R&D announced by his predecessor Mark Spencer at WATIS last year.

Mr Zeichner said that precision breeding “has the potential to be a key technology for growth, food security and sustainability.”

The limited opportunities to exploit these technologies commercially had prevented the industry from reaping the benefits, he added. “Globally, agriculture related gene editing startups have already raised over $2.7 billion since 2012.” 

Of this, approximately 80% of capital investment had gone to US-based companies, compared to only 5% in Europe, he added.

“Now we’ve placed scientists and breeders in England at the forefront. This must be taken advantage of to foster innovation resilience in agriculture. That’s why it is critical to drive forward that legislation.

“Using technologies like precision breeding will enable development of crops that are more nutritious, resistant to pests and disease, resilient to climate change, and more beneficial to the environment.”

This could lead to significant reduction in use of pesticides and a positive impact on pollinators, as well as increasing food production and reducing costs for farmers, he said.

The British On-Farm Innovation Network (BOFIN) is leading PROBITY, a multi-partner project which is trialling precision-bred crops on commercial farms for the first time in Europe. BOFIN founder and project lead Tom Allen-Stevens welcomed the announcement and urged the minister to act swiftly.

Tom Allen-Stevens

He said: “When the Genetic Technology Act was passed last year, England became the only country in Europe where precision-bred crops can be grown on commercial farms. However, the secondary legislation which covers aspects such as food labelling has been left by the wayside meaning that we are currently in limbo. 

“I welcome Mr Zeichner’s commitment to bringing this legislation forward, and hope he will do so with a matter of urgency.”

But he expressed concern over the delay on the roll-out of Defra’s Farming Innovation Programme and particularly ADOPT.

“Defra has now released details of how the fund will work. It looks really good and could significantly bolster on-farm productivity.

“It’s deeply concerning that the new government has not given the go-ahead for this valuable R&D funding. It would be all too easy to drop it altogether, blaming the previous government’s overspend.

“But to do so would be to cut off your nose to spite your face – it is the one area of agricultural funding that could stimulate the productivity growth we so desperately need for farming.”

Categories
BOFIN

Free soil analysis opportunity

Free soil analysis opportunity

Farmer members of BOFIN are invited to take part in a free soil analysis offer.

PES Technologies is partner in the TRUTH Project which is helping develop a special soil sensor which can ‘smell’ a soil’s biological profile.

The project’s Root Rangers are already helping by supplying samples, but PES has identified that it needs an additional 500 samples to validate the sensor. 

The PES team is particularly keen to receive samples of lighter, low organic matter soils. 

Therefore all BOFIN farmer members are being given the opportunity to receive detailed analysis of their soil. Participants will need to supply samples from three in-field points (1kg per sample), plus one reference point (1kg). Boxes, shipping, sample bags and protocols will all be provided. 

In return the farmers will receive the following results: pH, Organic Matter %, P mg/l,  K mg/l, Mg mg/l, P index, K index, Mg index, O.M. LOI %, Bulk Density kg/l, Carbonate Class, Soil Inorganic Carbon (SIC) %, Total Carbon %, Total Nitrogen %, C:N Ratio, Soil Organic Carbon (SOC) %, Organic Carbon Stock t/ha, Sand 2.00-0.063mm % w/w, Silt 0.063-0.002mm % w/w, Clay <0.002mm % w/w, Textural Classification, Nitrate Nitrogen mg/kg, Ammonium Nitrogen mg/kg, and Dry Matter %.

Anyone interested in taking part should contact Dominic Edwards at PES directly on d.edwards@pestechnologies.com

Categories
SLIMERS

Agronomist & Arable Farmer article

Promising signs from SLIMERS project

Farmers and scientists involved in the SLIMERS (Strategies Leading to Improved Management and Enhanced Resilience against Slugs) project are making strides towards finding sustainable slug control methods including ‘slug resistant’ wheat varieties.

Read the full article HERE

Categories
BOFIN

Make the most of knowledge exchange opportunities

‘Make use of knowledge exchange opportunities’

Farmers are being encouraged to take part in sharing knowledge and ideas via a series of specialist online forums.

Exchanging knowledge is a key part of the projects coordinated by the British On-Farm Innovation Network (BOFIN).

Founder Tom Allen-Stevens said: “On-farm trials are advancing expertise in sustainable farming, but we don’t want to keep our findings to ourselves. As well as hosting in-person events and publishing knowledge guides, leaflets and articles we have the Knowledge in Farming section on The Farming Forum to enable online discussion.”

This is a dedicated section for farmers – and anyone else interested – to learn from the BOFIN trials but also to host wider discussion around specific areas of interest.

Sections on the forum are the Soil Circle, Slug Circle and Pulse PEP reflecting the work being carried out within the TRUTH, SLIMERS and NCS projects respectively. Each Circle has a resource hub hosting a range of useful resources as well as the discussion forums. A fourth Circle to host discussion and resources on precision bred crops will be launched later this year.

Expert input

“This month our research partners are launching a new series of discussion threads to bring in their areas of expertise,” added Tom. “It’s an excellent opportunity to learn from scientists, researchers and other innovative farmers. I strongly encourage farmers to make time to use of this fabulous resource.”

BOFIN members are automatically registered and allocated a username and password for The Farming Forum when their first join the network, allowing them to access and join in the discussions straight away. Anyone who has mislaid their log-in details can enter their email address and click on ‘forgotten password’ at The Farming Forum for a reminder via email.

For tips on engaging with forum discussions read ‘Online discussion top tips’ and visit www.thefarmingforum.co.uk to get involved.

Categories
BOFIN

Knowledge in Farming:

‘Top tips’ for online discussions

The Knowledge in Farming section of The Farming Forum is BOFIN’s online platform for farmers to enhance their expertise and engage in meaningful discussion about agricultural practices and policy. Here, BOFIN’s Community Manager Skye Melita shares her ‘top tips’ for getting started and making the most of online discussions on the Soil Circle, Slug Circle and PulsePEP.

Create your profile

BOFIN members are automatically sent a username and password for The Farming Forum when they first join the network. When you first log in you should change your password to something you will remember. You can also change your username if you wish, add an image and further details to your profile. What you include is entirely up to you, but could reflect your farming business, including the types of crops or livestock you manage and – if you are BOFIN trialist – indicate which of our trials you are involved in.

Your profile is what others see and helps them understand your perspective, making it easier to connect with like-minded people. If you’re not a BOFIN member already you can sign up here for free.

Active participation

Engagement is key to benefiting from the forum. Start by reading existing threads to understand ongoing conversations. Then, contribute by sharing your experiences or asking questions about topics that interest you – anything goes (within reason)! Your insights will be valuable to others, and asking questions can lead to really informative exchanges.

Use the resources

The Knowledge in Farming section also hosts a hub of resources aimed at enhancing knowledge exchange. Have a look through these sections to find webinars, articles, and research reports which can help you stay informed about best practices and the latest innovations.

Build relationships

Networking is another essential element of knowledge exchange. Reach out to other members through direct messages or by commenting on their posts. Whatever your query you will find someone on the Circles who has the experience to help you.

Be open-minded

In any discussion forum, people will have differing opinions. Approach conversations with respect and an open mind. Engaging constructively with diverse viewpoints can be just as useful as finding people who share your views.

Follow up on discussions

After participating in discussions consider following up with members who provided valuable insights or resources. This could involve thanking them for their contributions or asking further questions based on what you’ve learned. 

By actively engaging with the Circles you can enhance your knowledge, share valuable experiences, and contribute to a vibrant community of innovative farmers.

Get involved at: https://thefarmingforum.co.uk/index.php?categories/knowledge-in-farming.265/

Categories
BOFIN

Successful recruitment drive for on-farm trials

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 

Categories
Citizen Scientists

Top tips for Slug Scouts

Here are some essential tips to help you become a master slug collector for the SLIMERS project

Finding Slugs

  • Look in damp, shady areas of your garden or field
  • Check under logs, rocks, or garden debris
  • Search during early morning or evening when slugs are most active
  • Create ‘slug traps’ using overturned flowerpots or boards

Catching techniques

  • Use gloves or tweezers to handle slugs gently
  • Lure slugs with bait such as lettuce leaves, citrus peel or chicken feed
  • Consider using a torch for night-time scouting

Identifying Grey Field slugs

  • The grey field slug is only about 3-5 cm long when extended
  • Check for a light grey to brownish coloration and distinctive darker tentacles
  • And importantly, please avoid slugs that have orange colouring or stripes, or that are more than 5cm long, as these are very likely to be the wrong species for this project

Container tips

  • Use a clean, sturdy plastic container with tight-fitting lids
  • Line the bottom with slightly damp paper towel
  • Include a small piece of vegetable such as lettuce for food

Shipping guidelines

  • Only post on Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday to ensure safe arrival before the weekend
  • Avoid shipping during postal strikes or heatwaves
  • Don’t overload your containers – maximum 30 slugs per container please
  • And remember, please exclude other slug species, especially leopard slugs

Your efforts contribute significantly to important research. Thank you and happy slug scouting!

Categories
Citizen Scientists SLIMERS Uncategorized

Slug Scout update

Scientists in the SLIMERS project are gearing up to restart their slug feeding trials after the summer break, which means that we will shortly be sending out more Slug Scout packs to those waiting to get involved.

Any slugs received over the summer have been taken care of in the insectory at John Innes Centre near Norwich, enjoying a diet of Chinese cabbage with small quantities of cat food for protein ahead of the trials.

A BIG thank you

Firstly, we want to thank everyone who has participated so far. Your contributions have been invaluable and helped us make great strides in our research. Grey field slugs are often spotted in gardens but are a major pest for arable farmers causing £43.2m worth of damage to crops every year. By taking part as a Slug Scout, you are contributing to the project which aims to find more sustainable ways to control slugs, including finding ‘slug resistant’ varieties of wheat.

With a huge amount of media coverage in recent months we’ve seen an incredible amount of interest in the project, and we’re so grateful for your interest! We will be sending out another batch of packs soon to as many people on our waiting list as possible. 

What’s new in the Slug Scout packs?

To accommodate our growing community, we’ve updated our participation packs. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Slug Scout pocket guide: Clear guidelines on how to identify grey field slugs
  • Postage guidance: Instructions on how to package up your haul safely
  • Labels: Easy-to-use labels to cover the postage for your slugs 
  • Freebies: A fun Slug Scout badge and some stickers to show our appreciation!

A small request

We do ask that you find your own container for the slugs and that you will send at least 10 (ideally more) grey field slugs. Takeaway tubs work perfectly as long as they have a tight-fitting lid. Additionally, please find a ‘Jiffy’ postage bag to send your slugs in – feel free to recycle one you already have!

Thank you for being a part of the SLIMERS project. 

Visit our Slug Scouts Facebook page

Categories
Citizen Scientists

Slimy invaders

The struggle which unites farmers and gardeners

Many gardeners will be familiar with the feeling of waking up to find your prized vegetable patch has been pilfered, hostas have been hacked or dahlias decimated, overnight. 

Now, picture that devastation on a much bigger scale, and you’ll understand the plight of UK arable farmers battling these menacing molluscs.

Slugs are the bane of UK agriculture, costing the industry a staggering £43.5 million every year. 

These slimy pests don’t discriminate between a home-grown lettuce and a farmer’s wheat crop – they will munch through both with equal enthusiasm. Just as gardeners might find seedlings vanishing overnight, farmers face the heartbreak of seeing entire crops damaged or destroyed. 

While the scale may differ, the challenges faced by farmers and gardeners are similar:

  • Both struggle with unpredictable weather that can lead to slug population explosions
  • Both want to find environmentally friendly ways to protect their plants
  • Both experience the frustration of seeing hard work undone by these persistent pests

The SLIMERS Project: Your chance to get involved

Here’s where it gets exciting – you can join the fight against slugs and contribute to a research project which is working towards sustainable solutions! The SLIMERS (Strategies Leading to Improved Management and Enhanced Resilience Against Slugs) project is calling for ‘citizen scientists’ or Slug Scouts to get involved.

How to become a Slug Scout:

  1. Visit slimers.co.uk and click ‘Become a Slug Scout’
  2. Wait to receive your Slug Scout pack, complete with instructions and ID guide
  3. Set up your very own ‘slimery’ to attract and collect slugs
  4. Post your slimy specimens to the research team

It’s a great opportunity to get hands-on with science and help farmers develop better slug control strategies. Plus, you’ll gain a whole new appreciation for these fascinating (if frustrating) creatures.

Why Your Help Matters

By participating, you’re not just helping farmers – you’re contributing to more sustainable agriculture practices. The research aims to reduce pesticide use while keeping our food supply secure. 

So, the next time you’re cursing the slugs in your garden, remember – you are not alone in this slimy struggle. From the smallest allotment to the largest farm, we’re all in this together!

Categories
BOFIN

Apply now for paid on-farm trial opportunities!

Apply now for paid on-farm trial opportunities!

We have had a fantastic response to our call for more farmers to join our paid on-farm trials. If you’d like to join us, you need to be quick! 

There are only a few spaces left for farmers to join our projects for the 2024/5 season:

Strategies Leading to Improved Management and Enhanced Resilience against Slugs – SLIMERS
Thriving Roots Underpin Total soil Health – TRUTH
Nitrogen efficient plants for Climate Smart arable cropping systems – The NCS Project

As a BOFIN trial farmer you will benefit from:

  • Payment for your involvement (rate varies for each project according to time requirement)
  • Full support and back-up from the BOFIN team and community
  • A warm glow from knowing you are contributing to a project that is making a difference to your farm business and the wider industry!

Register your interest now at bofin.org.uk/getinvolved 

We look forward to hearing from you,

The BOFIN team