Category: BOFIN

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BOFIN Event

Detecting nitrogen in crops from space – for the first time ever!

Join us at the upcoming webinar: ‘Satellite 2.0: Detecting nitrogen in crops from space’

Farmers interested in cutting-edge technology are invited to a webinar exploring the potential opportunities of hyperspectral satellite imaging for optimising fertiliser use.

As the only satellite technology able to detect the specific wavelengths required for remote crop nitrogen analysis, hyperspectral imaging has ‘game-changing potential’ believes UK agri-tech start-up Messium, which is co-hosting the webinar with The British On-Farm Innovation Network (BOFIN).

REGISTER FOR WEBINAR

“Previous generations of satellites couldn’t detect nitrogen in the crop – only biomass,” said Messium CEO George Marangos-Gilks. “Hyperspectral satellites are able to do both making this a game changer for farmers wanting to make best use of nitrogen applications.

“Whats more, commercial hyperspectral satellites are now available at scale, meaning that the value is there for farmers now.” 

Integrating this data with leading crop growth models and real-time weather information, gives farmers actionable insight to improve the Nitrogen Use Efficiency of their crops, he explained.

The virtual event ‘Satellite 2.0: Detecting nitrogen in crops from space’ at 8.30am on Wednesday 29thJanuary will explain the science behind the technology and optimal fertiliser use. Attendees will also hear from a farmer involved in Messium’s 2024 commercial pilot which involved 40 farms and saw an average 29% improvement in Nitrogen Use Efficiency (NUE).

“This led to an average uplift in profit of 7%, where the technology was correcting under-fertilisation, and 12% where cropped areas had previously been over-fertilised,” continued George Marangos-Gilks.

Tom Allen-Stevens, Founder of BOFIN said: “It’s essential that farmers can make best use of the latest technology if they are to increase productivity and sustainability in 2025 and beyond. Satellite technology has become part of the toolkit for UK farmers seeking precision application, so hyperspectral imaging should be of huge interest to those wanting to take their production to the next level.” 

To register or for more information click the button below:

REGISTER FOR WEBINAR

Notes to editors

Press enquiries to Clemmie Gleeson clemmie@bofin4982.live-website.com

Photo of George Marangos-Gilks and a QR code for the booking page are available HERE

About BOFIN:

  • The British On-Farm Innovation Network (BOFIN) was founded in September 2020 by Tom Allen-Stevens to represent farmers who carry out their own on-farm trials.
  • The network currently has over 500 farmers within a total membership of around 3500. The rest are scientists, knowledge exchange managers, industry innovators and a large following of citizen scientists.
  • Membership of BOFIN is free and there is no obligation to carry out on-farm trials, or to get involved. But for those who do, the aim for BOFIN Farmers is to seek a more scientific approach to on-farm trials. We encourage collaboration, discussion, and offer a platform to share ideas and for these to be valued.
  • BOFIN Farmers have a bent for pre-commercial technology. We seek a more sustainable, resilient path for agriculture, both for the UK and worldwide. But the journey to get there should be exciting, inspiring and exhilarating. 
  • Find out more and join at www.bofin.org.uk 

About Messium:

  • Messium is an agri-tech start-up backed by Innovate UK, and the UK & European Space Agencies. 
  • It uses cutting-edge hyperspectral satellites and crop models to offer accurate and frequent insights to growers on the level of Nitrogen in wheat crops. With these insights, growers can optimise their fertiliser regimes to maximise yield and protein, minimise waste, and reduce harmful emissions. 
  • The Messium model has been rigorously trained on 13,000+ samples from more than 300 trial sites in 23 countries, including 50 strip trials with rate-specific recommendations. 
  • It’s 2024 commercial pilot involved 40 farms with more farms taking part in 2025.
  • Find out more at www.messium.co.uk  
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BOFIN

Funding boost for farmer-led trials through ADOPT fund 

The long-awaited ADOPT fund will launch this spring, but the government has not confirmed if it will commit the previously promised £44 million.

The fund was first announced in November 2023 as part of the Farming Innovation Programme, by former Environment Secretary Steve Barclay. Accelerating Development of Practices and Technologies (ADOPT), promised businesses the opportunity to apply for a share of £44 million to test and trial new technology and techniques on farms. However, the new government put it on hold.

Speaking at Oxford Farming Conference today Defra Secretary of State Steve Reed confirmed that ADOPT would go ahead this spring. It would fund farmer-led trials “to bridge the gap between new technologies and their real-world application” he said. However, when questioned he failed to confirm the value of the total fund, saying that the Treasury would confirm this in subsequent announcements. 

Defra Secretary of State Steve Reed

“Our intention is to support these schemes and innovation because the future of the sector is dependent on getting that right,” he said.

Oxfordshire farmer and founder of the British On-Farm Innovation Network Tom Allen-Stevens said: “This fund is desperately needed and should never have been put on hold, so it is welcome news that it is now finally being rolled out. 

“Farmers need access to the latest technology and innovation which is most appropriate to their businesses. ADOPT is a very exciting programme which should make it possible to bring new tech onto farms to thoroughly test what does and doesn’t deliver.

Tom Allen-Stevens

“While Reed acknowledged the role of innovation in agriculture, he failed to commit to restarting other measures of the Farming Innovation Programme, importantly the Farming Equipment Technology Fund,” he continued. 

“This stimulus is desperately needed as we have already seen manufacturers diverting investment in innovation away from the UK since it went on hold last year.”

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BOFIN

CropTec 2024

The CropTec Show 2024 at NAEC Stoneleigh on November 27 and 28, brings together industry professionals, researchers and innovators to explore the latest advances in arable technology. 


This year’s show will feature three theatres focusing on Innovation, Knowledge, and Profit. Here are a few CropTec highlights for BOFIN members…


Gene-editing panel
BOFIN’s Tom Allen-Stevens and PROBITY Technical lead Prof Nigel Halford of Rothamsted Research will join other experts to discuss the transformative potential of gene-editing technologies. Head to the Innovation Theatre at 2pm on 27thNovember to hear how precision breeding can improve crop resilience and yield, addressing both opportunities and regulatory challenges. 


Soil Health
Soil Health is the focus of a session starting at 10am on day 2. Tom Allen-Stevens will reveal highlights from the TRUTH project and BOFIN trialist Tim May will share how his transition from conventional broad acre farming to mixed farming has impacted the health of his soils at Kingsclere Estate, Hampshire. 


Exhibitor highlights
More than 150 arable focussed businesses and research organisations can be found in the exhibition halls including BOFIN research partners UK Agri-Tech Centre (stand 1.456) and Rothamsted Reseach (stand 1.452). 


BOFIN events
Don’t miss BOFIN’s own events at CropTec. As well as launching The Sequence Circle and our new #PROBITYPledge campaign we will showcase the latest findings from the NCS and TRUTH projects. These special events being held in The Oak Tree room adjacent to the main hall. Read more HERE.
 
CropTec links
Full the conference programme click HERE
To register for your free CropTec tickets click HERE

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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

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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.

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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/

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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 

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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

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BOFIN

One year of the BOFIN Buzz!

One year of the BOFIN Buzz!

The BOFIN team celebrates the one-year anniversary of the BOFIN Buzz podcast this month, along with the introduction of BASIS points for listeners. 

Since the podcast launched in August 2023, 24 episodes have been published, including interviews with farmers, scientists and supply chain experts, and covering topics from slugs and soils to pulses and weeds.

Hosted by BOFIN founder Tom Allen-Stevens the podcast has been well received by farmers and others in the industry who enjoy its conversational style. 

“We find the podcast a really useful way to learn from the expertise of the many farmers and partners we work with through BOFIN, and I’ve found the conversations we’ve had so far absolutely fascinating,” says Tom “It’s very rewarding that listeners find the topics interesting and inspiring too. 

“The BOFIN team has plenty of ideas on how to develop the podcast further so watch this space!”

BASIS points

One recent advance is that from September BASIS members can claim CPD points for tuning in. 

“We’re delighted that the educational value of the podcasts has been recognised by BASIS and hope that this will encourage even more people to listen,” added Tom.

The BOFIN Buzz can be accessed via your chosen podcast provider for example Apple podcasts or Spotify, or via the BOFIN website. BASIS members can claim one point per one hour of podcast content – follow the instructions given in the episode on how to claim.

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BOFIN

‘Farmers need to lead the fourth agricultural revolution’

‘Buckle up for an exhilarating ride as farmers lead the fourth agricultural revolution’ 

By Tom Allen-Stevens

This piece was published in Farmers Guardian on August 9th

Wouldn’t it be brilliant if someone produced a wheat that could moderate available nitrogen to increase N-use efficiency? 

Maybe someone will find a way to predict where slugs will appear, so you can minimise pellet use, or use robots to control them without pellets.  

Imagine if someone cracked the secret to consistently better returns from pulse crops, or proved the value of a gene-edited wheat with health benefits. 

What if that someone was you? 

As farmers we tend to wait for agricultural innovations to be presented to us. We follow advice given to raise productivity, and buy inputs priced to bring greater returns to the manufacturer than to the farmer who uses them.

But it’s our knowledge that turns innovations into agricultural progress and that has value. It’s time our role was given full credit. 

You don’t have to look far beyond the farm for tomorrow’s innovations. The UK has world-leading scientists in its research institutes with creations that will make you slack-jawed with wonder. These just need a field to spread their roots, push up shoots and share their secrets with farmers with a keen eye for detail. 

The right framework is in place – Defra is midway through the roll-out of its Agricultural Transition Plan. While the ELM scheme grabs the headlines, the £270m allocated to R&D up to 2028/29 could hold more appeal if you’re looking to push productivity rather than put land aside for nature. Defra’s aim with the Farming Innovation Programme, delivered through Innovate UK, is to directly involve and engage farmers in this R&D. 

The acknowledgement that agricultural research must meet farmers’ needs is long overdue. But don’t hold your breath – Defra’s Agri-Tech Strategy hasn’t done much to make a real difference on farm. Much of the focus has been on the four Agri-tech centres, and large collaborative projects. While these have sought to involve farmers, they’ve been delivered with a level of bureaucracy that makes Rural Payments Agency processes look ‘light touch’.

However, some brilliant minds at the heart of Whitehall have recognised the misgivings of the current set-up and Defra is poised to launch ADOPT (Accelerating Development of Practices and Technologies). This is the truly farmer-focused element and appears to hold promise for farmers who want to explore innovations with scientific welly behind them. 

While the detail is still coming together, it looks like you’ll be able to bid for funds, either on your own or as a group. You’ll work directly with scientists or tech innovators, putting cutting-edge technology to the test, but you’re in the driving seat. The best part is that you’ll have funds for an experienced project manager so you can focus on the co-creating. 

Sounds too good to be true, and to be fair, ADOPT hasn’t yet been launched – the new Defra ministers could still stuff it up, or delay its roll-out. But if you’re keen to get innovating, you don’t have to wait. The British On-Farm Innovation Network (BOFIN) is one of a number of organisations bringing farmers into exciting projects within the Farming Innovation Programme without the pain of dealing direct with Innovate UK. 

BOFIN leads or partners farmer-led projects that revolve around a ‘knowledge cluster’ – a collaborative community of farmers, scientists and tech innovators with a specific sphere of interest. At the heart of the cluster lies the on-farm trials platform, where farmers are paid to monitor and develop tech, shaping the trials and sharing results. 

So we already have those wheats that moderate available N; BOFIN farmers are developing patch-prediction and autonomous control of slugs; we’re honing best practice in pulses, and bringing the first gene-edited cereals onto commercial farms in Europe. It’s free to join BOFIN and our knowledge clusters, and we’re currently recruiting more on-farm triallists.

The fourth agricultural revolution is here, and it’s led by farmers. If you no longer want to languish in the backseat, then join us at the front, and buckle up for an exciting ride. bofin.org.uk