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August 2026

Midland

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Serving the farming industry across the Midlands

News Call for regenerative farming rethink Arable Consider older rape varieties Soil health Get to grips with farming roadmap Livestock Special focus on pigs and poultry Professional Services Shorter terms for farm tenancies Clodhopper Common sense is going up in smoke

Potato management How to target pest control

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Midland Farmer

OPINION Johann Tasker

EDITORIAL Editor: Johann Tasker | T: 07967 634971 E: johann@ruralcity.co.uk

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Midland Farmer is a controlled circulation magazine published monthly for farmers and growers in the Midlands (Derbyshire, Herefordshire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, Northamptonshire, Nottinghamshire, Shropshire, Staffordshire, Warwickshire, West Midlands and Worcestershire) or companies supplying goods and services to the sector. To be included on the circulation list, a farmer must have a minimum of 70 acres of land, or 50 dairy/beef stock, or 50 breeding sows/250 growing stock, or 15,000 laying hens/broiler chickens. Intensive horticulture units are required to have a minimum of two hectares. If you no longer wish to receive this magazine, please email your name, address and postcode as it appears on the wrapper to gemma.mathers@micropress.co.uk © Countrywide Publications 2026 Published by Countrywide Publications, Fountain Way, Reydon Business Park, Reydon Suffolk IP18 6DH T: 01502 725800 Printed by Micropress Printers Ltd T: 01502 725800

Farming cannot wait for better times

he message from this harvest is impossible to ignore. Climate volatility is no longer an occasional inconvenience. It is a permanent feature of farming. Early wheat yields this season have highlighted the point perfectly. Four summer heatwaves have produced a harvest of extremes. Some crops are respectable. Others have fallen a third below expectations. At the same time, government support is changing, costs remain stubbornly high and profit margins continue to be squeezed. Taken individually, none of these challenges is new. Together, they represent a fundamental shift in the way farm businesses must think about the future. Regenerative farming

Against that backdrop, the latest farming figures from Andersons make uncomfortable reading. Even after a better harvest than the previous two years, many regenerative systems are struggling to generate a profit. For many businesses, the Sustainable Farming Incentive remains the difference between red and black ink. Yet that income is becoming less certain as agreements come up for renewal and payment caps begin to bite.

Contents

Waiting for commodity prices to improve is not a strategy. Neither is assuming support payments will fill the gap indefinitely. Every farm business should be asking hard questions about costs, resilience and risk. Real challenge

The government suggests its new Farming Roadmap – and soil health – can provide some of the answers. That may be partly true. Healthier soils retain more water retention and reduce dependence on expensive fertiliser. But the real challenge is for the government to match its words with action. Farmers need confidence to invest. Frequent policy changes and uncertainty over environmental schemes make that increasingly difficult. British farming has never stood still. But this generation faces perhaps the biggest test of all: producing more from increasingly unpredictable seasons while relying less on guaranteed support. The businesses that prosper are unlikely to be those waiting for yesterday to return. They will be those preparing for tomorrow. Johann Tasker Editor

Vol 15 • No 8 • August 2026

News . ................................................................... 4 Arable . ................................................................. 6 Soil Health ....................................................... 19

Livestock . ......................................................... 27 Professional Services .................................. 43 Clodhopper ..................................................... 46

AUGUST 2026 • MIDLAND FARMER 3

News Rethink needed to help secure profitable farming future • Profit margins persist • Collaboration cuts business costs • SFI income declines

Many farmers rely on income from the Sustainable Farming Incentive. [Photo: Dave Colman / Shutterstock.com]

egenerative farmers are being encouraged to rethink their approach to crops and livestock amid increasing concerns over profitability. Poor margins, rising costs and lower support payments are continuing to squeeze margins, growers and livestock producers were told during a business seminar at last month’s Groundswell festival.

New estimates Financial pressure is building across the arable sector and more businesses are recognising that doing something differently may now be essential, visitors were told at Lannock Farm, near Hitchen, Hertfordshire. Many regenerative arable businesses remain unable to make a profit from production alone, according to estimates from an updated 600ha Regen Farm model devised by farm business consultants Andersons. While harvest 2026 is expected to improve on the last two seasons, the business still records a small production loss before payments from the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) return it to surplus. “Simply doing the same thing and hoping the situation improves is not a viable business strategy for many anymore,” said Andersons partner Richard King, Businesses should review their structure rather than wait for conditions to improve, he added. The model shows production margins have remained negative since harvest 2024 after wet weather cut yields and grain prices weakened. Dry conditions then reduced yields again in 2025, while overhead costs continued to rise. Although 2026 prospects are brighter, yields have again been challenging this harvest, with higher fer4 MIDLAND FARMER • AUGUST 2026

Regen Farm Performance

tiliser, fuel and general inflation expected to increase production costs again in 2027.

New approaches Andersons warns that SFI income is likely to decline as agreements signed in 2024 come up for renewal. Larger businesses may be particularly affected by the £100,000 payment cap, reducing an important income stream. Collaboration between neighbouring farms offers one route to improving profitability by lowering costs and increasing efficiency, suggested Mr King. But any agreement must work for all parties. “Working together with other farmers is a way of improving performance and lowering costs,” he said. “The idea is to grow the size of the cake rather than argue about how the cake is divided.”

600ha Regen Farm models the fortunes of arable farms using regenerative techniques. It grows feed winter wheat (200ha); 100ha each of spring malting barley; winter oats and spring beans; 80ha of milling wheat and 20ha of herbal leys. Cover crops are grown before spring crops; third-party sheep graze the herbal leys and cover crops. Its crops are established by direct drill.

Prepare for SFI second window Growers who haven’t yet done so should make time to prepare for the reopening of the Sustainable Farming Incentive, say advisers. The SFI is due to reopen next month for farmers who have an existing agreement following an initial opening window for first-time applicants and farmers with less than 50ha of agricultural land. Some 75% of funding for the first wave was allocated to farmers within two weeks of the first window opening. The second window is expected to see a similar slew of applicants – despite harvest being in full swing. Defra says potential applicants should check that your digital maps show: all the land parcels you want to include in your SFI26 application, with the correct areas and land covers. Farmers who need to update maps should contact the Rural Payments Agency to ask that this is done as soon as possible. For details, visit www.defra.gov.uk.

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AUGUST 2026 • MIDLAND FARMER 5

Arable Heatwaves create harvest lottery as wheat yields diverge

Differing results “Prolonged dry conditions have accelerated crop development and brought harvest forward across many areas, but results are differing significantly by crop, region and soil type,” says NFU combinable crops chairman Jamie Burrows. The NFU is urging growers to complete its short harvest snapshot survey. The goal is to generate a national picture of crop yields, quality and the impact of extreme weather on cereal crops and oilseeds. “Harvest should mark the culmination of a year’s hard work, investment and risk taking, the point where we finally see a return on our commitment,” says Mr Burrows. Doing so will strengthen the NFU’s case to government.

M Barratt / Shutterstock.com

arly wheat yields are varying sharply after three summer heatwaves accelerated crop development and reduced output by as much as one third. While grain quality has generally held up, with protein levels encouraging and specific weights around 80kg/hl, growers are reporting striking differences between crops, regions and soil types. The NFU says the results underline the growing impact of extreme weather on arable businesses. It is asking farmers to complete a harvest survey to strengthen its case to government. Some first wheats are yielding one third less than average in places – despite decent protein levels and specific weights hovering around 80kg/ha. Winter barley appears less affected but again is variable, with yields ranging from 7t/ha to 9t/ha.

Yields are variable across the country due to heat and lack of rain.

“Once again, many of us in arable businesses are facing serious challenges, from extreme weather and volatile input costs to further examples of unfairness within the supply chain.” The first combines rolled into barley in late June. The UK’s 2026 oilseed rape harvest also saw one of its earliest starts on record, with prolonged summer heat bringing crops to maturity weeks before normal. United Oilseeds estimates the national crop will total between 1.1 and 1.2 million tonnes, a significant increase on last year and a major step towards rebuilding domestic production. Much of this is due to increased area rather than a spike in yields. That said, rape yields of 4.5- 5t/ha are being reported although oil contents are generally tracking slightly below last year’s exceptionally high levels. The early season has, however, created logistical challenges.

Oilseed rape, winter barley and one of the earliest wheat harvests on record have all coincided, placing huge demand on haulage as crops have matured simultaneously rather than progressing gradually from south to north.

Right direction United Oilseeds managing director James Warner says the harvest is another positive sign that confidence in oilseed rape is continuing to return. “There’s a real sense that oilseed rape is moving in the right direction again,” he adds. “Better establishment, lower pest pressure, favourable growing conditions and the willingness of growers to adopt new management approaches are all helping to rebuild confidence in the crop.” Mr Warner added: “This harvest shows what oilseed rape can deliver when those factors come together.”

Remember older rape varieties this autumn

rowers drilling oilseed rape should consider varieties no longer on the AHDB Recommended List, says crop management company Agrii. Past on-farm performance should be the starting point for 2026 drilling, says Agrii seed key account and performance manager Ian Davy (right). Growers shouldn’t dismiss proven varieties simply because they are no longer recommended, he adds. “Seed breeders have done amazing work over recent years and varieties

6 MIDLAND FARMER • AUGUST 2026

have never been stronger in terms of yield potential and resilience. While the RL features new additions each year, improvements are increasingly incremental.” Mr Davy adds: “Just because a variety is not on the RL doesn’t mean it’s a poor variety, particularly if they’ve worked well on farm in previous years and in the context of the management approach being used.” Some of Agrii’s best performing crops last year came from established names in-

cluding Vegas and Maverick from NPZ, RGT Kanzzas and LG Adapt. While proven varieties should form the basis of plans, Mr Davy says growers should remain open minded about new options too. “New RL addition KWS Domingos, for example, looks very promising with its strong combination of high gross output, excellent agronomic properties and strong vigour, particularly in the spring to minimise CSFB larval damage.”

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Arable

Rothamsted scientists reinforce herbicide resistance strategy • Research clarifies herbicide action • Evidence backs resistance strategy • Science supports grower decisions

ew research by Rothamsted Research could help growers manage herbicide resistance while protecting existing Avadex chemistry. It follows changes made by the Herbicide Resistance Action Committee (HRAC) – moving Avadex (tri-allate) into the same Group 15 mode of action category as flufenacet, prosulfocarb and ethofumesate. The decision raises questions about whether those products should be used together. Best practice normally recommends mixing or sequencing herbicides with different modes of action. But Rothamsted scientists say their study has strengthened the case for using tri-allate in grassweed control programmes. The work shows the herbicide acts differently from other Group 15 chemistry.

Fresh evidence Believing tri-allate behaved differently, plant protection product manufacturer Gowan commissioned Rothamsted Research scientist Dana MacGregor and her team to investigate. The first experiments compared triallate, flufenacet and EPTC, which is not registered in the UK. Scientists studied their effects on blackgrass in controlled conditions. They found tri-allate and EPTC mainly affected shoot growth. Flufenacet affected both roots and shoots. Further work by Hannah Blyth, Frederick Beaudoin and Alex Borg examined what happened inside the plant. They used biochemical techniques to study changes in plant tissues and cells. The team found tri-allate inhibits fatty acid synthesis, which is essential for plant growth, at two points in the pathway. It acts first in the chloroplast and later in the endoplasmic reticulum. Flufenacet and EPTC affected only the later stage. “We can say this because when we

measure different components within the pathway in our controlled environment experiments, the early ones are altered in response to tri-allate – but not by the other Group 15s we tested,” said Dr MacGregor. The findings suggest tri-allate acts at multiple sites within the pathway. That could explain why resistance has not developed despite more than 60 years of commercial use.

Farm impact Gowan UK country manager Hank King said the findings had important implications. First, he said, they reinforced Avadex’s role in herbicide programmes. “Add that to this research, and we have confirmation that Avadex is not only extremely efficacious but is also a proven tool for use as a resistant management partner.” Additionally, there is no reason to avoid tank mixing or sequencing Avadex with other Group 15 herbicides, said Mr King. The research also comes as many growers rely increasingly on cinmethylin for autumn

Clockwise from top: Scientists say the findings explain why tri-allate has remained effective for more than 60 years; Rothamsted scientist Dana MacGregor; and Gowan manager Hank King.

grassweed control. “Secondly, we see growers in many situations in the UK increasingly relying more heavily on a single active in cinmethylin to do the bulk of the heavy lifting for autumn grass weed control. “Where that is the case, we need to be sure the product is robustly protected and supported not only in delivering additional weed control, but also for resistance management. “Avadex is a robust partner in this instance as it is delivering a mode of action that acts at multiple sites in the target weed.”

Ongoing research Mr King said the work also showed the value of investing in science. Better understanding of herbicide chemistry helps growers make informed decisions. It also helps protect the performance of existing products. “This research is ongoing and will be deepened, which for growers should give them proven and genuine justification for using Avadex to control grass weeds as well as helping protect existing chemistry,” he concluded. AUGUST 2026 • MIDLAND FARMER 9

Arable

PROVEN ON FARM

How cultivating rape stubble can reduce pest pressure EXPERT VIEW Stubble management is key following oilseed rape, says Colin Peters

ultivating oilseed rape stubble after harvest benefits the following crop and helps to reduce pest pressure – including Cabbage Stem Flea Beetles (CSFB). The cross-industry OSR Reboot initiative pinpoints 10 techniques that can help. Updated for this autumn, they are a key example of Integrated Pest Management in action – delivering multiple blows to suppress flea beetle population. The first strategy growers can apply is to cultivate rape stubble after the combine has finished. After harvest, growers are advised to shallow cultivate rape stubble to reduce emerging CSFB adults and pupae in the soil.

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Correct depth After harvest, CSFB adults are in the top 30 mm of soil and can still emerge. New data confirms that shallow cultivations of oilseed rape stubble reduce beetle numbers by between 50% and 80%. Topsoil should be cultivated and then inspected make sure it is precise enough. There may be a need to adjust the machinery – for example to adjust the tracking of the forward and backwards discs, so they track correctly between each other. You do not need to cultivate any deeper than is necessary. Stirring up the soil after harvest could have negative effects on beneficial insects and may limit the potential the use of rape volunteers. When sowing the next year’s rape crop, try to employ some key strategies. The first is to choose where the next crop can be sown, thinking about this in both time and space and in conjunction with your neighbour.

Integrated Pest Management can help combat flea beetle.

Care needed Be careful with rotations – decide whether one year in five is right – and consider the proximity of previous rape crops. Consider using “brassica buddies” by planting turnip rape or volunteer rape around the borders or within the field. These brassica buddies in borders or infield strips are there to lure the beetle away from the crop. These sacrificial strips of brassicas can be left until late September. They reduce the pressure of both adult and larvae. Peak migration of CSFB takes place end of August to beginning of September so avoid sowing crops then. Soil should be moist. Sow early to avoid adults or sow late after peak migration. This can reduce adult damage and larval loading. When sowing rape for the 2027 harvest, growers should use as many techniques as they can to avoid increasing CSFB populations. In this way they are employing IPM. Each individual strategy needs to be implemented with good attention to detail. Every grower knows that establishing an arable crop carefully with precision brings about positive benefits in the long run. Colin Peters is a break crop specialist at NIAB. For more details about the OSR Reboot campaign, visit unitedoilseeds. co.uk/osr-reboot

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Arable

Sprinter wheats widen options for later drilling

ew wheat varieties that mix winter and spring genetics could help growers reduce risks associated with delayed drilling while maintaining yield and quality. Known as “sprinter” wheats, the varieties have a much wider drilling window than conventional wheats. They can be drilled from mid-Octo-

“

They are still winter hardy

ber through to late spring –offering flexibility when autumn conditions deteriorate or drilling plans change.

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spring wheats, meanwhile, are unsuitable for autumn drilling. Agrovista arable seed manager Ted Williams showcased the varieties to growers before harvest at Agrovista’s AgX demonstration site at Lamport, Northamptonshire. “They are genetically different to most other winter wheats and can be drilled from mid-October to as late as any traditional spring wheat,” he said. “While they have no vernalisation requirement, they are still winter hardy.” The first commercial sprinter wheat, the Group One milling variety STR Pace, will be widely available through the seed trade this autumn. Mr Williams said the variety would suit growers delaying drilling to improve grassweed control or reduce the risk from barley yellow dwarf virus and septoria. It could also be drilled after root crops or maize, or grown as a conventional spring wheat. Bred by German breeder Strube, now part of RAGT, STR Pace joined the AHDB Recommended List for spring wheats in 2025. But, Mr Williams said it performed equally well as a late autumn-drilled crop.

Trial results STR Pace yielded only 1% less than leading spring wheat KWS Harsum, he said. It delivered 13.0% protein and a specific weight of 80.6kg/hl, the highest of any spring wheat on the list. Its earliest drilling date of mid-October means it cannot be assessed as a winter wheat under AHDB protocols. Agrovista therefore compared it with Skyfall, a popular late-drilled winter wheat, at two AgX sites last season. “At Lamport on heavy clay, STR Pace yielded nearly 1t/ha more than Skyfall from a November drilling, while on high yielding silt soils at Haddenham in Cambridgeshire the advantage was almost 0.6t/ha,” said Mr Williams. In Agrovista’s integrated system trials at Lamport, which assess rotations, cover crops, cultivations and weed control under heavy blackgrass pressure, STR Pace also outperformed a competing spring wheat, yielding about 9t/ha. Three years of testing by UK Flour Millers has demonstrated good gluten quality, baking performance and water absorption. Agrovista trials showed both November-drilled and spring-drilled sprinter wheats were harvested at around the same time as winter wheat sown in early October. That was 10 to 14 days earlier than conventional spring wheat varieties, offering growers greater flexibility at both the start and end of the season.

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Arable

Water security ‘key to Britain’s potato future’ Reservoir investment needs backing

otato industry leaders say the sector will struggle to reverse falling domestic production unless the government makes water a strategic priority for farming. Unreliable access to water is now the biggest barrier to expanding domestic production, delegates were told at the Potato Industry Growth Summit in London. Growers are prepared to invest – but policy is falling behind. The UK is increasingly dependent on imported potatoes. Defra estimates UK demand reached 7.1 million tonnes in 2025, but British growers supplied only 71% of that requirement – compared to 90% of national demand at the turn of the century. Delegates at the London summit said reversing that decline depends on giving farmers confidence to invest in reservoirs, irrigation systems and wider water infrastructure.

Water resilience The summit, organised by GB Potatoes and the National Potato Innovation Centre, took place between the second and third heatwaves of the year. Water dominated discussions. Recent weather patterns have exposed the scale of the challenge. Britain has experienced droughts in 2018, 2022 and 2025. This year’s spring and summer rainfall has also been well below average across much of England. At the same time, the winter of 2025/26 was among the wettest on record, while wet springs in 2023 and 2024 delayed planting and disrupted crop establishment.

Delegates said growers now face longer dry periods followed by more intense rainfall. That means more water needs to be captured when it is available and stored until crops need irrigation. Potatoes are especially vulnerable to moisture stress during tuber initiation and bulking. Inadequate or inconsistent irrigation reduces yields, limits tuber size and increases quality defects. The result is fewer marketable potatoes. A potato crop requires about 350mm of water during the growing season, equivalent to around 1.4 million litres per acre. That requirement is met through rainfall, stored soil moisture and irrigation. The summit called for long-term planning involving government, regulators, water companies and agriculture. Delegates also backed faster planning decisions for farm reservoirs, policies allowing growers to store surplus winter water, continued investment in irrigation efficiency and research into drought and flood-tolerant varieties.

Investment confidence GB Potatoes chief executive Scott Walker said growers were prepared to invest if government created the right policy framework. “Water is not an optional extra for potato production. It is fundamental to maintaining the crop we grow today and absolutely essential if we want to increase British production in the future.

Reliable water supplies are essential for resilient potato production, says Scott Walker.

“

Water is not an optional extra

Without reliable access to water, the UK would see further reductions in domestic production, greater volatility for growers and processors, and increasing reliance on imports, said Mr Walker. “That would weaken our food security and export jobs and investment from the British supply chain,” he added. “Growers are prepared to invest in reservoirs, irrigation technology and more efficient water-management systems, but they need a policy and planning framework that gives them the confidence to do so. “We experience periods when there is too much water and periods when there is far too little. The answer is to enable growers to capture water when it is available and store it until crops need it. “If government is serious about economic growth, food security and increasing domestic food production, then water for agriculture must be recognised as strategic national infrastructure.”

Wider benefits Delegates said investment in farm reservoirs would also ease pressure on public water supplies, improve flood management and strengthen catchment resilience as demand increases from housing, population growth and climate change. The summit brought together representatives from across the supply chain, including growers, breeders, processors, packers, retailers, foodservice businesses and researchers. Speakers agreed that demand for potatoes remains strong, with British growers capable of increasing production. Other discussions focused on boosting potato consumption, safeguarding plant health, improving profitability, encouraging innovation and attracting skilled people into the industry. AUGUST 2026 • MIDLAND FARMER 15

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Arable

‘Focus on fundamentals’ as rape revival continues

rowers returning to oilseed rape are being urged to focus on crop management as renewed confidence drive a resurgence in plantings. The rape area increased by 49% for harvest 2026, according to estimates from the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board. But the 358,000 hectares grown this season remains a long way off the 650,000ha seen a decade ago. That said, there is every indication the area will increase again for harvest 2027, says James Hood, United Oilseeds area manager for the Midlands and Norfolk. The farmer-owned cooperative has been inundated with inquiries from growers, he says.

upbeat about it,” he says. Variety choice remains an important consideration as growers look to balance establishment costs with yield potential. Mr Hood favours Limagrain hybrids but describes Pi Pinnacle as his preferred conventional variety. Grainseed general manager Neil Groom points out that Pinnacle topped the latest AHDB survey, accounting for 9% of the total area grown across both hybrid and conventional varieties. It’s later flowering and flexibility make it particularly attractive. Being a conventional variety, growers can also grow their own seed. Even when purchased, seed costs are significantly lower than hybrid seed costs.

Market signals With prices at about £430/t off the combine, many growers are reassessing their rotations – not least because of weaker oilseed rape pricing. Other break crops are also less profitable than rape. Backed by companies including Grainseed and Limagrain, the United Oilseeds Reboot campaign has further helped restore confidence in rape, says Mr Hood. “This campaign has given growers much more confidence. ” Pest pressure has also eased. Cabbage stem flea beetle caused relatively few problems this season after growers adopted the 10-step integrated crop management guidance issued by the AHDB. Many growers are now planning to increase their oilseed rape acreage or return to the crop after several years away, says Mr Hood. “Farmers are very

Crop outlook Agronomists report crops are in strong condition across much of the country. AHDB currently classifies 78% of the standing crop as good or excellent, matching the positive outlook seen last season. Independent Oxfordshire plant breeder Mike Pickford says his Pinnacle trial plots have performed well throughout the season. He reports the variety has remained among the cleanest in trials for stem diseases. He says secondary and tertiary branches are carrying large seed with between 28 and 30 seeds per pod, while the crop remains green and continues contributing to final yield. Disease pressure has generally remained low this season. Mr Pickford says earlier varieties are beginning to show stem diseases including verticillium, which can restrict grain fill, but

James Hood expects a further increase in oilseed rape area in 2026/7.

“

Farmers are very upbeat about it

he has not yet seen sclerotinia or significant lodging. Mr Hood reports similarly low disease pressure across the Midlands and Norfolk. Crops have looked healthy but harvest performance will determine whether the encouraging season translates into strong financial returns. Mr Pickford believes this year’s crop has the potential to match last season’s high yields. “With growers being very upbeat about rape, I am hopeful for a profitable crop this harvest and even more rape for next harvest. Recent performance and current market conditions have strengthened the crop’s business case. For many farmers, oilseed rape was the best performing crop in harvest 2025 – and looks to repeat a solid return this year too, says Mr Groom.

Resistant varieties offer defence against verticillium stripe Growers facing increasing pressure from verticillium stripe should consider resistant rape varieties in the absence of chemical control. The disease can survive in the soil for up to 10 years and, in severe cases, reduce yields by as much as 34%. Industry specialists say variety choice, combined with good crop establishment and longer rotations, remains the only practical way to limit its impact. The AHDB is in its third year of assessing verticillium stripe resistance. Rather than using the traditional one-to-nine disease scale, varieties are classified as moderately resistant, intermediate or susceptible. Grainseed general manager Neil Groom sats the disease remains patchy but is becoming more widespread. “In extreme conditions Verticillium stripe

can cause up to 34% yield reduction,” he adds. The fungus infects plants from the soil during autumn and spreads through the vascular system before symptoms become visible in spring and early summer. As infected crops mature, the pathogen returns to the soil, allowing the cycle to continue. “Because the microsclerotia can survive in the soil for 10 years, the rotation theoretically should be 10 years. But this strategy is impractical and unworkable, so growers who have experienced the problem now have resistant varieties to fall back on.” There are no curative treatments once the crop is established. “There is no other option of minimising verticillium other than growing a resistant variety, optimising establishment and extending your rotation.”

AUGUST 2026 • MIDLAND FARMER 17

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It wasn’t all dozer driving and landscaping, the Racecourse also asked us to carry out some gravel banding on a few areas on the main course and around parts of the cross country course. We were concerned the ground conditions may have been a bit dry and hard for the wizz wheel.

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Soil Health Healthy soils sit at heart of Defra roadmap How good soil drives resilience

renewed focus on soil health will help UK farmers secure a more resilient future in the face of global challenges, says the government. Healthy soils sit at the centre of the Defra’s vision for the future of English farming, with ministers arguing they are essential to maintaining profitable food production while reducing reliance on costly inputs. “Healthy soils, clean water and functioning ecosystems are the foundations of food production,” says the government’s long-awaited Farming Roadmap, which was published this summer. The foreword to the document, co-written by farm minister Stephen Morgan, says healthier soils improve nutrient efficiency, reduce exposure to volatile fertiliser markets and help farms withstand drought, flooding and disease. “The ongoing pressure on fertiliser and fuel prices because of the closure of the Strait of Hormuz underlines the need to shift to a more resilient farm-

ing system with reduced reliance on such inputs.” Rather than treating environmental improvement as separate from commercial farming, the roadmap presents soil health as a business asset that underpins productivity, resilience and profitability. The roadmap says nature-friendly farming systems can maintain or enhance production by improving soil health, increasing nutrient efficiency and reducing dependence on external inputs.

Environmental benefits The long-term goal is for farming to work with the environment. Better soil management is expected to reduce pollution, strengthen water retention and improve resilience to increasingly unpredictable weather, it adds. By 2050, soils should contain more organic matter, retain more water and support stronger crop and grass growth, creating more resilient farming businesses alongside improved environmental outcomes.

Healthy soils underpin profitable farming, stronger crops and longterm business resilience.

“

Healthier soils improve nutrient efficiency

The roadmap backs this ambition with commitments to publish new soil structure guidance, establish an openaccess national soil data portal and create a national soil monitoring baseline. The document also includes an Environmental Improvement Plan target to bring at least 40% of England’s agricultural soils into sustainable management by 2028, rising to 60% by 2030. Responding to the announcement, Soil Association policy director Brendan Costelloe said the roadmap rightly recognised that soils were the best defence for farmers who would increasingly face extreme weather over the coming decades. “Extra investment in innovation for soil health and water management is much welcome – but government must ensure this is spent on naturefriendly practices to help soils retain water at times of flood and drought.”

Summer heatwaves threaten soil resilience

eatwaves pose a growing threat to farm profitability as soaring temperatures damage crops, degrade soils and weaken long-term resilience, say researchers. Extreme heat is of undermining UK soil systems, says Nicola Cannon (right), professor of agriculture at the Royal Agricultural University. Repeated heat events could leave farming less able to cope with future climate shocks, she added. “Extreme heat fundamentally disrupts how crops grow and function. When temperatures exceed optimal thresholds, plants shut down critical physiological processes

such as photosynthesis, which directly reduces growth and yield.” The warning follows three prolonged heatwaves this summer. Climate projections indicate similar heatwaves will become more frequent and intense, increasing pressure on food production and farm sustainability.

Organic matter Extreme heat places pressure below ground.

Higher soil temperatures accelerate the breakdown of organic matter, increasing carbon and nitrogen losses while contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. At the same time, declining soil moisture altered microbial activity and nutrient cycling, said Prof Cannon. This had a knock-on effect on crop performance – not just now but in future years too. “Soil is a living system, and extreme heat places that system under stress. We see reductions in biological activity, changes in nutrient Continued on p25 AUGUST 2026 • MIDLAND FARMER 19

Thousands turn out for 'best Groundswell yet' More than 10,000 visitors attended the 10th anniversary Groundswell festival last month – held at Lannock Farm, near Hitchin in Hertfordshire. Hosted by the Cherry farming families, the regenerative farming event focused on ways to improve soil health using sustainable farming methods that produce food while enhancing the environment. It included the launch of One Billion Acres - a campaign aiming to convince companies to commit to a regenerative transition. It aims to ensure 400 million hectares of land globally is under regenerative certification or management by 2030. Event director Alex Cherry said: “Groundswell 2026 has shown just how far the regenerative farming movement has come. The energy, generosity and optimism we've seen over these two days gives me real confidence for the future of farming. “What began as a conversation between farmers has grown into a community that brings together people from across the food and farming system and supply chains, united by a willingness to share ideas, challenge assumptions and learn from one another.”

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Soil Health

One-pass train for rapid cover crop establishment

armers using min-till sowing techniques for cover crops and companion planting could achieve faster and more consistent establishment with precision applications of liquid fertiliser. A multi-component tillage train system developed by Techneat application specialist James English combines a MultiCast seeder unit and a Nutristart LQ liquid fertiliser applicator to deliver seeding and fertiliser placement in a single pass. It is one way to cope with increasingly unpredictable weather pattens which create significant challenges for the successful autumn establishment of cover crops and companion planting, says Mr English. “With increasingly protracted dry weather periods, it’s crucial to conserve any available soil moisture and also encourage rapid root growth for establishing seedlings to seek out reserves,” he says. Shorter periods of good conditions for autumn sowing makes high work rates a priority to cover ground quickly and help to ensure drilled crops get off to the best possible start, adds Mr English.

The tillage train principle ensures that seeds are accurately placed into adequate tilth, while minimising surface movement to protect against water loss and weed seed incorporation. Operating in tandem with the Nutristart LQ, a tailored liquid fertiliser can be placed directly alongside the seed, to encourage faster establishment of the crop. The direct placement of both encourages the rapid uptake of nutrients and avoids waste. Fertiliser composition and application rates can be tailored to individual field conditions by agronomists. But research suggests growers should typically aim for a low nitrogen, high phosphorus 5-15-5, to encourage rapid rooting and biomass development.

Consistent “The aim is to achieve more consistent establishment in challenging conditions,” says Mr English. “That’s essential for cover crops to maximise their potential to retain and recycle nutrients.” The system also helps to protect and enhance the soil structure through the win-

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ter, along with optimising the role of companion planting alongside the establishing crop, adds Mr English. The MultiCast 400 unit can be fitted with a specific metering cartridge for small seeds or cover crop mixtures, with the versatility to change cartridges for other applications, such as Avadex Granules, or to swap onto other machines through the year. Metering of both seed rate and fertiliser is matched to forward speed via Garmin GPS. The Multicast 400 and Nutristart LQ tillage train combo is now available for growers to try out through the Techneat Hire scheme.

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Soil Health

Test soil to sharpen pest management decisions

otato growers are being urged to should make strategic soil sampling a priority before lifting harvest to improve long-term control of potato cyst nematode (PCN) in the following crop. PCN remains one of the most damaging pests affecting UK potato production. Effective control depends on integrated pest management (IPM), with soil testing providing the foundation for informed decisions on variety choice, rotations and crop protection. Simon Alexander, an independent agronomist and member of the Nematicide Stewardship Programme (NSP) group, said growers should focus on understanding what lies beneath the surface rather than relying on assumptions.

Sampling accuracy “Soil testing gives you the information needed to make informed decisions, but it is important not to interpret PCN figures too literally,” says Mr Alexander. Laboratory reports usually provide cyst numbers per 100g of soil and egg numbers per gramme of soil. It is important to understand the difference. Egg counts indicate the current pest burden. Cyst numbers reflect historical PCN activity. Mr Alexander also warns against treating a laboratory result of “none found” as evidence that PCN is absent. “A 200g sample per hectare is only a handful of soil, so the overall chance of missing eggs or a PCN hotspot is significant,” he says. More detailed sampling improves confidence in the results. Reducing the sampling area from one hectare to half a hectare doubles the number of sampling points and provides a clearer picture of pest distribution. “The more detailed your sampling,

the better your understanding of how PCN is distributed and the more information you have to shape your management plan.” He also recommends testing fields two years before potatoes are due to be planted. That gives growers more time to adapt rotations, select suitable varieties and consider additional control measures. Identifying the PCN species is becoming increasingly important. Knowing whether Globodera pallida or Globodera rostochiensis is present can influence variety selection and wider IPM planning because resistance varies between species. Once results have been assessed, growers can decide whether cultural measures such as trap crops or biofumigation are appropriate. They can also assess whether granular nematicides containing fosthiazate, including Syngenta’s Nemathorin, have a role within the overall strategy. Where PCN pressure is low, resistant varieties may provide sufficient protection without the need for granular nematicides. However, soil type, field history and expected variety performance should also be considered. “If PCN levels are very high, it is worth asking whether potatoes should be grown in that area at all,” adds Mr Alexander.

Practical guidance Where nematicides are used, growers should seek advice from a BASIS-qualified agronomist to ensure products are used appropriately and as part of an integrated programme. “Understanding your PCN pressure has never been more important. PCN control is not simply a planting-

Heatwave ‘threat’ to soil resilience Continued from p19 cycling, and ultimately a loss of the resilience that healthy soils provide.”

Crop impacts High temperatures accelerate water loss from plants through evaporation, causing wilting as roots struggle to replace lost moisture. Crops respond by closing stomata to conserve water, but this also reduces photosynthesis.

Growers need to make informed decisions, says Simon Alexander. Inset: Accurate soil sampling will help target PCN control more effectively.

Prof Cannon said prolonged heat stress could halt growth altogether, limiting biomass production and carbon capture. During flowering and grain filling, high temperatures can reduce pollination and grain set, cutting yields. Winter wheat has largely passed its most vulnerable stage, with peak sensitivity occurring during pollen development between late May and mid-June. However, spring wheat remains exposed because it reaches this stage later in the season. Adapting farming systems would be-

season decision. It starts with knowing what is in the soil today and using that information to build a more resilient plan for the years ahead.” Updated guidance on the safe and effective application of granular nematicides is available through the stewardship programme to help maximise product performance and support responsible PCN management. The NSP is also encouraging growers to review the latest Code of Good Practice before planting crops. It can be found on the NSP Stewardship website at nspstewardship.co.uk.

come increasingly important. Increasing crop diversity, maintaining living roots, improving soil organic matter and regenerative practices could all help buffer crops against extreme temperatures. “Building resilience into farming systems is critical,” said Prof Cannon. “Farmers are on the frontline of climate change. Supporting them with knowledge, tools, and long-term policy frameworks is essential if we are to safeguard food production and environmental sustainability for the future.” AUGUST 2026 • MIDLAND FARMER 25

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Roadmap supports resilient farms

R The one-day event will showcase some of the best UK dairy cattle.

UK Dairy Day gears up for bumper event Thousands set to attend dairy showcase

inal touches are being put to this year's UK Dairy Day event, which takes place next month at the International Centre, Telford, Shropshire. The dedicated annual event for the dairy industry on 16 September brings together all facets of the industry for face-to-face networking – alongside a showcase of some of the UK’s best dairy cattle breeds. This year’s Sharing Knowledge Zone will feature seminars and industry panels with leading industry professionals covering a range of dairy related topics. It will include the presentation of the UK Dairy Road Map. A special AHDB seminar will examine breeding and feeding methods to reduce dairy herd carbon footprints. This seminar explores how genetics and nutrition interact to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. John Newbold and Marco Winters will examine how reformulating diets, selecting and breeding more efficient animals, and understanding the links between these approaches can influence a farm’s overall greenhouse gas profile. The session will also introduce the UK?Dairy Carbon Network, highlighting how evidence?based approaches to breeding and feeding can support practical, farm?relevant emission reductions across the dairy sector.

Good practice Industry experts will look at ways to build a better dairy future. Panellists will include Edward

Lott, EJL Business Consulting; Mel Shipley, Oxbury Bank; Ian Harvey, NFU Dairy; Richard Corbett, Robert Parry & Partners; and Fraser Jones, Calcourt Farms. Afternoon sessions will look at technology and the use of artificial intelligence in agriculture. It will include a presentation by Sergio Ooijens, a director of Business Team Next, who will talk about AI in agriculture and how Lely are working with it.

“

It's a global platform for UK breeders

Some 300 businesses are expected to attend the event from the UK and further afield. Thousands of visitors are expected – and six different breeds judged in the main ring.

Judges’ details Judges for this year's one-day have now been confirmed. Top cattle show judges for the Holstein, Ayrshire, Brown Swiss, Dairy Shorthorn, Guernsey and Jersey breeds will cast their professional eyes over the pedigree under the spotlights during a full day of cattle classes. They will include Gary Jones (Holstein); Matthew Service (Ayrshire); Richard Thomas (Brown Swiss and Guernsey); Blaise Tomlinson, Dairy Shorthorn); and Phil Arrell, (Jersey). For full details, including tickets, visit www.ukdairyday.co.uk

elaunched last year, the Dairy Roadmap is strengthening efforts to unite the UK dairy supply chain behind a practical approach to sustainability. The initiative aims to build on progress already being made on farms. It brings together farmers, processors, wholesalers and retailers to create a shared framework for long-term improvement. The roadmap’s first Sustainable Pathways Report is being developed independently by Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC). It will include an economic assessment to ensure recommendations are practical. The roadmap argues that sustainability depends on inclusion rather than targets that only a few farms can achieve. Collective progress across the sector will deliver the greatest long-term impact, it adds. Dairy Roadmap chairman Bas Padberg, of Arla Foods, said: “By aligning the whole value chain around shared priorities, we can drive progress and build a dairy sector that is resilient for the long term.”

Farmer engagement Producer workshops and an open online survey have helped shape the report. The roadmap says education, peer-to-peer learning and technology will help farms improve efficiency, reduce costs and strengthen animal health. Working groups covering biodiversity, water, carbon footprint and processing continue to meet alongside industry, government and academic advisers. Mr Padberg said: “A sustainable dairy future depends on collaboration across the entire value chain and active engagement from farmers as partners in change. “The transition to sustainability must work for every farm, not just a few.”

AUGUST 2026 • MIDLAND FARMER 27

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Livestock

High-volume calf milk called into question • Studies compare feeding strategies • Higher costs questioned again • Weaning remains critical stage

ew UK research suggests the trend towards feeding calves very high volumes of milk replacer may not deliver sufficient returns for dairy farmers. Feeding more than 1,050g of milk solids per calf daily can increase costs without producing meaningful improvements in growth or health, suggest two studies. Higher milk allowances may reduce starter feed intake and make weaning more difficult. The work was presented at the National Youngstock Conference in Birmingham.Dr Jessica Cooke, research and development manager at Feed For Growth (Volac Milk Replacers). Investment in calf rearing remained essential, said Dr Cooke. But feeding rates should also deliver value for money. “Our research shows that higher milk volumes – of over 1,050g milk solids per calf per day – do not deliver significant improvements in growth or health, could be compromising performance at weaning and costing farmers more.”

Trial evidence The studies compared moderate and high milk feeding programmes using both skim-based and whey protein concentrate-based calf milk replacers. In both trials, calves offered more milk grew faster before weaning because they consumed more energy. However, they also ate less starter feed. That reduced their ability to cope with the transition from milk to solid feed. The first study involved 96 Holstein heifer calves at AFBI Hillsborough. Half received six litres of milk replacer each day, providing 900g of milk solids. The remainder received eight litres a day, supplying 1,350g of milk solids. Dr Cooke said calves receiving the larger milk allowance frequently failed to finish their feeds. “There were higher refusals of CMR up to 28 days in the

Right: The trial assessed growth, health and weaning performance. Below: Feeding rates should deliver value for money, says Jessica Cooke.

“

Higher milk volumes… do not deliver significant improvements in growth or health group fed eight litres. In fact, in the afternoon feed, the full volume of milk was not consumed 38 times.” Starter feed intake reached 108kg per calf by day 90 in the six-litre group. It reached only 79kg in the eight-litre group. This meant the six-litre group were better equipped to cope with the weaning transition and were eating around 2kg of starter by day 63. “The eight-litre group ate less starter. Consequently, although preweaning growth was higher in calves fed more, growth suffered at weaning,” said Dr Cooke.

Growth outcomes Average daily liveweight gain to day 90 reached 0.93kg in the higher-fed group and 0.89kg in calves receiving six litres. The difference equated to only 3kg at 13 weeks. Health remained good in both groups. “A growth rate of 0.89kg/ day is excellent, and calves were more equipped to deal with weaning, so it’s worth questioning if the 26kg of extra CMR fed was worth the investment, particularly as a lot was wasted,” said Dr Cooke. A second study at

Duchy College in Cornwall reached similar conclusions. It compared 25 Holstein heifers fed either seven or nine litres of milk replacer daily through computerised feeders. Calves receiving the higher milk allowance achieved stronger growth before weaning. But lower starter intake led to a check in performance during weaning. Average daily liveweight gain to day 84 was identical at 0.78kg, and there was no difference in bodyweight by 12 weeks.

Practical advice Dr Cooke said the results showed producers should focus on balanced nutrition rather than maximum milk volumes. Both studies showed that excessively high CMR volumes are not always necessary to achieve good growth, she said, “Feeding more can make weaning more challenging. What’s important is farmers provide a CMR with good levels of protein, either from whey or skim, at a level which will promotes starter intakes which are just as important for rearing success as CMR.” Dr Cooke recommended feeding around 900g-1,050g of milk solids per calf each day and weaning over at least three weeks. She also advised using milk replacers based on quality dairy proteins with 16-21% fat. This would encourage starter feed intake and support a smoother transition after weaning, said Dr Cooke. AUGUST 2026 • MIDLAND FARMER 29

Livestock

Maximise rumen development early for lifelong gains EXPERT VIEW Good rumen development means better beef animals, says Colin Byrne.

etting rumen development right in the first weeks of life is one of the best investments any beef producer can make. The benefits continue throughout the animal’s lifetime, improving performance, efficiency and profitability. Poor rumen development can have lasting repercussions for the profitability of beef calves. The good news is that careful management can avoid rumen damage and help produce more profitable, uniform beef animals. But a calf with poor rumen development early in life is likely to remain a challenge right through to finishing. Growth rates tend to be slower and feed efficiency suffers. So yoo does the bottom line. If the rumen wall is underdeveloped or damaged, the animal is more likely to have problems throughout its lifespan – with a reduced capacity to absorb nutrients, reducing the animal’s growth potential or feed efficiency. Research shows that 40% of beef carcass weight is determined by growth during the first 12 weeks of life. After that, there is only so much that can be done to improve lifetime performance. For that reason, optimising rumen development from an early age should be a priority. That means creating the right rumen environment so calves consume as much starter feed as possible. The rumen needs to remain anaerobic, with a pH above 6.2, to encourage fibre-digesting bacteria to establish successfully.

Health issues How we manage the rumen early on affects how efficiently cattle convert feed into beef later in life. To get an animal finished in as reasonable a time frame as possible, they will be fed relatively high amounts of energy and starch. If this diet is not introduced prop30 MIDLAND FARMER • AUGUST 2026

erly, this can reduce the pH, damaging the rumen papillae. Again, this reduces the surface area, reducing absorption capacity and therefore feed efficiency and growth. The time needed to transition between diets varies from farm to farm. It depends on forage-to-concentrate ratios, so I always recommend agreeing a suitable plan with your nutritionist. Housing and management are equally important. Adequate water, sufficient feed space, good ventilation and sensible grouping all help maintain feed intake. Heat stress, overcrowding and disease all divert nutrients away from growth. These animals are being pushed to their maximum growth potential. To achieve that their environment must not put them under pressure in any other way. If ventilation is inadequate or they have an infection, the animal will redirect nutrients to keeping cool or fighting infection. That’s going to impact growth. Grouping cattle by size also matters. It reduces bullying, helps smaller calves access feed and lowers the risk of bruising.

Digestible fibre Studies have shown that adding a rumen-specific live yeast to the diet can improve average daily gain, reduce feed conversion ratios, produce more uniform cattle and help protect rumen papillae. Lallemand beef trials using the live yeast Levucell SC, containing the yeast strain Saccharomyces cerevisiae CNCM I-1077, have shown average daily gains increase by around seven per cent while feed conversion ratios improve by three per cent. Across the lifetime of the animal, this has delivered a return on investment of between three-to-one and seven-to-one. The whole idea is to op-

Healthy rumen development underpins lifetime performance.

“

Housing and management are equally important

timise and balance the rumen microbiome by stabilising pH and increasing oxygen scavengers. With the rumen being anaerobic, we need to take as much oxygen out as possible to get the beneficial bacteria in. One of the things Levucell SC is good at is boosting fibre digestibility, as it creates an environment that promotes an increase in the population of fibrolytic bacteria, which break fibres down.

Preventing damage Trials have also demonstrated benefits during the finishing period. Using Levucell SC has been shown to reduce keratinisation, or hardening, of the rumen papillae by 50%. This damage is commonly associated with sub-acute ruminal acidosis (SARA), which limits the animal’s ability to absorb volatile fatty acids and ultimately reduces both growth and feed efficiency. Using a rumen-specific live yeast around weaning has also been shown to increase starter intake, encouraging better rumen development. Trial work recorded a 43% reduction in variation in average daily gain, creating more uniform groups of cattle. More uniform growth can also simplify grouping and allow more cattle to reach slaughter specification together, reducing the number of abattoir trips. Dr Colin Byrne is ruminant technical and deployment manager for Lallemand Animal Nutrition.

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Livestock

Sheep partnerships help to drive herbal ley success • Herbal leys increase flexibility • Rotations benefit both sectors • Grazing boosts flock performance

Staffordshire sheep farmer is reaping the rewards of a grazing system based on herbal leys, rotational grazing and partnerships with neighbouring arable businesses. Wayne Underhill has worked with local arable farmers since 2015 to establish two and three-year grass and herbal ley rotations. The system delivers greater flexibility, higher forage production and stronger flock performance, he says. The approach provides productive grazing for his sheep enterprise

while offering arable growers a valuable break crop, additional organic manure and grazing-led weed control before land returns to cultivation. The system has also reduced reliance on purchased feed. Mr Underhill says it has improved the use of homegrown forage – and the flexibility it creates is central to the business. Mr Underhill is a tenant of Staffordshire County Council Farms. He farms about 38ha at Penkridge and 34ha at Trentham. He also uses about 80ha of seasonal grazing, although the area varies according to

Plantain and white clover have proven a key combination for the past 16 years. Inset: Wayne Underhill.

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availability and flock requirements. The partnership approach benefits both livestock and arable businesses. “It allows for higher stocking rates and productive grazing ground for the sheep enterprise, while providing arable businesses with a break crop, manure and grazing-led weed control.” The collaboration has also allowed him to compare different herbal ley mixtures across contrasting soils through contract overseeding work.

Grazing systems Mr Underhill started farming in his own right in 2010. Seven years shearing sheep in New Zealand influenced his management approach. His flock combines commercial New Zealand Romney and RomTex genetics with a New Zealand Romney pedigree flock developed using artificial insemination genetics imported from New Zealand.

The business objective is clear – to produce more lamb from homegrown forage. “I wanted to maximise lamb output from home-grown forage and ensure feed never became a limiting factor,” he says. “The aim was to grow more high-quality grazing and conserved forage, while reducing reliance on bought-in feed. “Herbal leys have given us the flexibility to graze or make winter forage, so depending on flock needs, around 30 acres are cut for haylage to feed through the winter, with the remainder rotationally grazed.” Mr Underhill first introduced herbal leys 16 years ago using a simple mix of Tonic plantain and white clover. Current mixtures also include Italian ryegrass, red clover and chicory. He believes there is no universal seed mixture because different farms need different solutions. “At Penkridge we’ve our best results with simple plantain and white clover leys, which provided excellent-quality forage and supported good milk production. “However, because we lamb outdoors, managing birth weights was more of a challenge so those fields

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have since been entered into the SFI SAM3 option. “Dry weather on our light sandy soils has increased thistle pressure, but the wider mix has helped manage birth weights while maintaining good sheep performance. “At our Stoke site, where land is also sandy, higher rainfall has helped the herbal mix establish well and deliver good sheep performance. This is overseeded with chicory, plantain, white clover and red clover to produce high-quality haylage.” He said Sustainable Farming Incentive payments added value, although herbal leys should still be managed as productive crops with effective grazing and weed control.

Flock management Outdoor lambing starts around one April at Penkridge. Ewes and lambs graze the herbal leys for about 10 to 12 weeks before fields are rested. The leys are grazed again in late summer, depending on rainfall. Weaning takes place at about 14 weeks. It coincides with shearing. That reduces labour and saves time. Continued on p35

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Livestock Continued from p33 Mr Underhill also matches grazing according to scanning results. “Ultimately our target is to wean a total lamb weight equal to, or greater than, the ewe’s own body weight. “Any single-bearing ewes are grazed on low-input grass before lambing and then moved onto a grass and herbal mix after lambing, while twinbearing ewes graze the SFI SAM3 herbal leys. “The triplet-bearing ewes graze on tonic plantain and white clover leys – over a longer period of time – which produces excellent results and gives them more chance to grow.” Regular movement between grazing blocks requires a dependable water supply. A Severn Trent water bowser and portable troughs allow water to be moved with the flock. “That flexibility helps make the best use of herbal leys while maintaining high standards of animal welfare,” he said.

Future partnerships Mr Underhill believes successful establishment is essential if herbal leys are to deliver consistent returns. “The aim is to drill directly into stubble straight after harvest, then use that field for two years before it is returned to arable cropping. “This system works as it helps re-

Leys used on farm Haylage Overseeding Mix: 50% Red clover 25% White clover 15% Plantain 10% Chicory SAM3 Overseeding Mix: 18% Sainfoin 18% Red Clover 14% White Clover 14% Tonic Plantain 9% Perennial Chicory 9% Alsike Clover 5% Timothy 5% Meadow Fescue 4% Black Medick 2% Yarrow 2% Sheep’s Parsley A water bowser supplied by Severn Trent combined with portable troughs have allowed fresh water to be taken directly to the grazing block.

tain soil moisture and avoids unnecessary soil structure disturbance. “We’ve seen good results, particularly with plantain and white clover when it has been overseeded between May-July, provided sufficient moisture has been available,” he added. A Dal-Bo MaxiRoll Greenline and Multistriegel fitted with Einböck PBox seeders is used to establish both

new and existing swards. Looking ahead, Mr Underhill plans to expand partnerships with more neighbouring arable farms. He believes integrating herbal leys into two and three-year rotations can improve livestock performance while delivering wider benefits for cropping businesses before land returns to arable production.

Why condition scoring and grazing decisions matter

ugust often feels like a “hold your nerve” month, writes Nerys Wright. Lambs are still pushing on, ewes are recovering from the demands of rearing and – if it is dry, like this year – feed can be a challenge. When dry weather bites, the pressure on grazing can build quickly – and this is exactly when clear decisions matter most. One of the most effective actions you can take in August is to split ewes by body condition score (BCS). It sounds basic, but it transforms how far your grazing will stretch. Ewes in good condition don’t need the same feed allocation as those that have weaned a bit thinner.

Be ruthless If they all run together, the fittest ewes continue to eat while the ones that genuinely need the nutrition can fall further behind. Separate them, and you can target feed where it’s needed, rather than wasting valuable grass on sheep that don’t

require it. At weaning, be ruthless. Cull stragglers early — don’t carry passengers into autumn. Every mouth you remove now frees up feed for lambs and productive ewes. Then ask yourself the hard question: Do I have enough feed for both lambs and ewes? If the answer to this important question is “I hope so”, that’s your red flag. Hope is not a course of action. If grass is tight, selling stores early can ease pressure and protect the performance of the stock you keep. Dry weather also changes the worm picture. While larvae tend to stay locked in the faeces during hot, dry spells, sheep grazing closer to the ground than usual may still pick up a burden — and animals in poorer condition are less able to cope with it. If FECs are low now, don’t switch off. The real risk comes 7–10 days after rain, when a flush

The long spell of dry weather is putting good grazing under pressure.

of larvae can be released onto the pasture. Keep monitoring: has performance dipped, are lambs a bit dull, are ewes not holding as they should? Small decisions now can make a big difference to autumn performance. Nerys Wright is an independent sheep consultant. Call 07891 187643 or visit sheepconsultancy.co.uk.

AUGUST 2026 • MIDLAND FARMER 35

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Livestock

Funded vet scheme targets bird flu risk

Welfare-led poultry handling recognised by RSPCA

oultry producers can now claim funding for specialist veterinary biosecurity reviews as Defra steps up efforts to reduce the risk of avian influenza. The new Poultry Biosecurity Review scheme offers eligible commercial keepers £430 towards a vet visit that provides practical, farm-specific advice to help prevent disease outbreaks. It forms part of the Animal Health and Welfare Pathway and comes as bird flu continues to pose a significant threat to poultry businesses. The review is intended to help businesses strengthen biosecurity rather than respond to a disease outbreak.

Disease defence “Risks vary between farms. What works on one site may not work on another,” said Defra animal welfare policy lead Chris Maxwell. Confirmed cases usually result in birds being culled, while movement restrictions on poultry, eggs and equipment can disrupt businesses and supply chains. England’s position on major migratory bird routes also increases seasonal disease risk. The funded review aims to provide tailored advice rather than generic guidance. Eligible poultry keepers meeting the scheme’s requirements can choose their own vet, arrange a visit at a convenient time, pay the invoice and reclaim the funding. During the visit, the vet will assess biosecurity risks, identify areas where disease prevention could be improved, recommend practical actions and provide a written report for future reference.

The reviews aim to strengthen flock biosecurity.

Funding is available for eligible poultry sites until the end of 2028, giving businesses time to review and improve biosecurity as part of longer-term flock management. Guidance for poultry keepers is available through the government scheme. Defra said the reviews reflect feedback from the poultry industry, which called for more practical, site-specific support. It says tailored veterinary advice will help reduce disease risks while improving resilience against future outbreaks.

onah’s Handling has achieved RSPCA Assured certification, strengthening its welfare-led poultry handling service for producers across the UK. The certification recognises the standards delivered by the specialist poultry handling teams, including its approach to training, bird-handling, supervision and on-farm working practices. Jonah’s Handling became part of Livetec in May 2025, bringing more than 18 years of poultry handling experience to the business. The team historically operated in Norfolk and Lincolnshire, particularly in the turkey sector, but now spans the UK. Rob Willetts, director of Jonah’s Handling, says the achievement is an important milestone. He added: “We know the responsibility that comes with working on our customers’ farms, and we take that seriously every day. “This certification recognises the standards our handling teams work to and the care they put into every job. It gives producers added confidence that they’re working with a team committed to doing things properly, with animal welfare front of mind.” For producers, the certification provides additional assurance when selecting poultry handling teams to support welfare-led systems and supply chain requirements.

Nutrition focus drives longer laying cycles

trong consumer demand for eggs is increasing pressure on producers to improve efficiency while maintaining flock health, with nutrition emerging as a key tool to extend laying cycles and reduce production costs. That was the message from the Norvite Poultry Conference, where farmers, nutritionists and poultry specialists examined how feed strategies can help birds remain productive for longer without compromising welfare. Delegates heard how feed formulation, flock management and bird health must work together to sustain egg quality and productivity through longer laying periods. Speakers also outlined the role of specialist nutritional products in supporting bird performance.

Feed focus The conference highlighted how carefully

Delegates discussed nutrition strategies supporting healthier hens.

planned nutrition programmes can help producers make better use of flocks, improve resource efficiency and respond to growing market demand for eggs. The event, held at Barra Castle, Aberdeenshire, reflected a wider industry drive to improve business performance while reducing environmental impact. Farmers discussed practical challenges directly with industry specialists while learn-

ing about the latest developments in poultry nutrition. The event also provided an opportunity for producers, suppliers and advisers to exchange ideas and experiences. Norvite managing director Edward Smith said: “The knowledge and expertise shared throughout the day reinforced the important role that nutrition plays in supporting extended laying cycles in a healthy and productive way.” AUGUST 2026 • MIDLAND FARMER 37

Livestock

Warm weather raises fly risk in pig units

ig producers are being advised to review fly pressure in housing as prolonged warm weather creates ideal conditions for populations to build. Dave Reece, Lodi UK pest control technical adviser, says fly numbers can rise rapidly during warmer periods, particularly where muck and moisture provide the ideal breeding environment. Pig units, particularly slatted-floor systems, can suffer badly from flies because of the muck that accumulates there, says Mr Reece. “In warm conditions, larvae can hatch in as little as eight to nine days, so once maggots are present in muck, the problem can escalate rapidly,” he says.

Control programme “Around 80% of the fly population is likely to be in the larval stage, so by the time large numbers of adult flies are visible, the problem is already well established. “That’s why control needs to start at the breeding site, rather than focusing only on the adult flies you can see.” Hygiene should form the foundation of any control programme, says Mr Reece. “The storage of muck is where flies breed, so the less time that material is sitting in the system, the less opportunity flies have to lay eggs. “Once old bedding or muck has been removed, it’s important to wash and disinfect the building and, where possible, take muck away from the site.

Alongside hygiene, producers should consider larval control.

That gives you a much better chance of breaking the breeding cycle.”

Fly species Alongside hygiene, producers should consider larval control. “Larvicidal products, such as Lodi UK’s Larvenol or Maggots, have an important role in pig units because they target the population before adult numbers become a major problem.” But Mr Reece says producers may also be dealing with more than one fly species, including common house fly and stable fly, which can affect the choice of adult control product.

“Not all flies behave in the same way, so producers need to identify the species present before deciding on the most appropriate adult control approach,” he says. “For common house fly, pheromone-based baits such as Sheila can be useful, but stable fly behaves differently. Using the wrong product for the fly present is unlikely to deliver the result producers expect. “The most effective approach is to combine good hygiene with targeted larval and adult control, based on where flies are breeding and the species present.”

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Do you keep pigs, even just as pets?

Don’t give

disease a

piggyback African swine fever (ASF) is a disease that affects all pigs regardless of age or breed, including wild boar. There is no licensed vaccine available. The disease does not affect any other animals or humans but is fatal for pigs.

How can you protect your pigs? ●

Don’t feed food waste – it is illegal to feed kitchen scraps to pigs, even if they were prepared in a vegetarian or vegan kitchen

●

Keep holding registrations and pig movement records up to date

●

Strengthen biosecurity by limiting visitor access to your pigs, securing site boundaries and disinfecting all handling equipment before and after use

●

Stay vigilant and report any health concerns to your vet

●

Follow trusted information sources such as Defra, APHA, AHDB and your vet

ASF is a notifiable animal disease

This means if you suspect it, you must report it immediately by calling the Defra Rural Services Helpline on 0300 020 0301. Failure to do so is an offence.

For information about other diseases affecting pigs, visit ahdb.org.uk/knowledge-library/diseases-affecting-pigs

Stay informed, stay protected and keep ASF out

Livestock

Foodservice sector urged to source more British pork

estaurants and eateries are being urged to buy more British pork – and provide clearer information on where their food comes from. The National Pig Association (NPA) says doing so will help to restore confidence in a pig industry facing mounting financial pressure caused by an oversupply of pigs, low prices and rising production costs. At the same time, independent producers have been given notice on supply contracts by processors, adding further uncertainty to a sector where margins are tight – and becoming tighter. While supermarkets have largely maintained their support for British pigmeat, the NPA says restaurants, caterers and takeaways remain heavily dependent on imported pork, with

consumers given little indication of where products originate.

Divided sector Retailers have generally continued to back British pork, with some publicly committing to increase domestic sourcing. Retail sales data suggest supermarket support has remained relatively stable despite challenging market conditions. Foodservice presents a different picture. Imports have traditionally dominated the sector, largely because of lower prices. Meanwhile, lack of mandatory country-of-origin information makes it hard to assess the proportion of British pork served. AHDB figures show GB pork purchases by the foodservice sector fell by 3.5% year-on-year in the 52 weeks

Clearer labelling would support producers and consumers, says the NPA.

to 22 March, driven mainly by lower takeaway demand. But the data does not distinguish between British and imported pork.

Photo: Mo Wu / Shutterstock.com

Producer confidence NPA chief executive Lizzie Wilson said stronger support from foodservice businesses would provide an important signal to farmers who were weighing up their future. “The pig sector is going through an incredibly difficult time at the moment, with many independent producers, once again, fighting for their fu-

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tures,” said Ms Wilson. “There are no easy solutions but one thing that would definitely help give producers confidence to continue is a robust commitment from the foodservice sector to back British pork – and shout about it to their customers. “We need to address this complete lack of transparency about where these companies source their pork products. The British public deserve better. “We also understand the pressures the catering sector is under – and the temptation posed by cheaper imports. We are not suggesting that all imports must be replaced by British pork – just that this important sector can do a lot better.” Ms Wilson said surveys consistently showed consumers wanted to support British farming when given the opportunity. “We know the great British public is right behind our farming industry and wants to support it. Currently, it is not being given the opportunity to do so by the foodservice sector.” The NPA is calling on foodservice suppliers to increase purchases of British pork and to make sourcing information more visible.

Cooling systems become standard in pig units

ore large pig producers are installing misting systems in farrowing houses to combat summer heatwaves while boosting sow welfare and productivity. Cooling systems are increasingly viewed as a routine part of modern pig building design rather than an optional extra. Installation costs range from about £40 to £100 per sow, depending on the size of the building. Tim Miller, environmental specialist with ARM Buildings, said the economics were compelling. Many farmers would be able to install the systems themselves, he suggested, due to their simplicity. “From £100 per sow for a small house to as little as £40 per sow for a large multi-room building, it’s a no-brainer, considering the welfare and productivity benefits the cooling system brings in hot weather.” Most systems use high-pressure nozzles to create a fine mist in incoming air, lowering temperatures through evaporation without wetting the building. “Misting systems are easy to fit and while

I have had many calls from farmers without them, there have been very few issues of heat stress on farms where they are already in operation,” said Mr Miller. “The mist is too fine to wet the house but reduces the temperature as it evaporates,” he added. “I recently visited a farrowing house when the ambient temperature was 32?C but the room temperature was 28?C.”

Simple installation Misting systems can often use existing Dicam controls to operate the equipment. Even where cooling systems are not installed, producers can reduce heat stress by wetting concrete passageways and increasing ventilation. Mr Miller said the welfare benefits alone justified the investment, with any production gains providing additional value. “Some farmers use their pressure washers in front of the inlets to cool the incoming air but, obviously, care needs to be taken to avoid fans and other electrical equipment.”

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Professional Services Quality drive creates new opportunities for farmers • Better food drives demand • Protein focus reshapes markets • Supply chains become closer

rowing demand for higherquality food is set to create new opportunities for farmers as consumers place greater value on nutrition, protein and provenance. A new Savills Spotlight on Food report says climate risk, changing policy and tighter margins are accelerating change across agriculture. It argues future profitability will depend less on producing greater volumes and more on supplying higher-quality food through resilient supply chains. “The UK food system cannot rely on volume alone. Future resilience will depend on how well the sector adapts to climate risk, responds to changing consumer demand and builds stronger, more transparent supply chain relationships. In practical terms, that means a renewed focus on quality, nutritional value and provenance,” said Tim Frost, associate director in the food and farming team at Savills in Cambridge.

“

The UK food system cannot rely on volume alone

Tim Frost: Higher-value food markets offer new opportunities for forward-thinking East Anglia farmers.

Consumer demand The report suggests consumer preferences are moving away from ultraprocessed foods. Mr Frost said “tomorrow’s table” would increasingly resemble diets from the 1940s, with greater emphasis on better ingredients and nutritional value. “The food on tomorrow’s table may look less like the ultra-processed model that has dominated in recent decades, and more like a system built around better ingredients and longterm resilience.” He added: “As this trend develops, processors will need to engage with growers to demonstrate the in-

tegrity of their supply chain and ensure they deliver a quality product, not a fast one.”

Farm resilience Savills says growers should review crop suitability, invest in irrigation and water infrastructure, and adopt production systems that improve longterm resilience. “Better use of technology, regenerative farming practices and closer integration across supply chains – all are expected to play a central role in how the sector adapts,” said Mr Frost. Supply partnerships The report says the traditional commodity-led model is giving way to closer, vertically aligned relationships as economic, environmental and geopolitical pressures increase. “While direct payments to producers were often modest, the value to farmers frequently comes through improved stability, reduced risk and access to support. “Our research suggests that future success will depend not simply on yield, but on access to data, credible reporting and trusted partnerships across the supply chain.”

Farm tenancy terms shrink amid market uncertainty

rowing uncertainty over tax, farm policy and profitability is prompting landowners and farmers to favour shorter tenancy agreements. The average length of new Farm Business Tenancies (FBTs) fell to its lowest level since 2021 during 2025, suggest new figures. At the same time, fewer Agricultural Holdings Act (AHA) tenancies were re-let and more holdings were sold instead. Continued on p44

Access to farmland is key to business expansion and for new entrants AUGUST 2026 • MIDLAND FARMER 43

Professional Services

Farm sales hit 20-year high despite steady acreage

ore farms came onto the open market in England during the first half of 2026 than in any comparable period for almost 20 years, although the total acreage available remained little changed. Some 177 farms were publicly launched between January and June, according to Strutt & Parker. This was up from 167 a year earlier and 16% above the five-year average, but the 58,500 acres marketed was almost identical to the figure recorded in 2025. The figures point to a market where supply is increasing in farm numbers rather than land area. Buyers remain active, but demand and prices vary sharply by region, farm type and quality, suggests Strutt & Parker's Farmland Database. "We have seen renewed demand in some areas, with a notable increase in the number of deals struck over the past three weeks," said Sam Holt, head of estates & farm agency at Strutt & Parker. "Overall, the market remains resilient, but there are inconsistencies, with significant variations in supply,

Buyers are focusing on quality and location, says Sam Holt.

Continued from p43 The move is reducing the supply of let land and raising concerns over future investment and productivity, says Jeremy Moody, of the Central Association of Agricultural Valuers (CAAV), The CAAV’s latest Agricultural Land Occupation Survey suggest uncertainty is changing long-established behaviour in the tenanted sector – even rented land remains an important route for business expansion and new entrants. “Over the years, these surveys have shown that periods of policy uncertainty see the average length of letting shorten,” says Mr Moody. “Wider issues; from farming economics to housing legislation, underpin this reality. In practice, the survey shows a similar pattern to previous years but with a shortening of the shorter terms granted, fitting the recognised pattern of reactions to concern and uncertainty.”

Market pressure The survey covered 88,384 acres across England and Wales to October 31, 2025. It recorded a net loss of 4,510 acres of let land. Historically, between 75% and 80% of AHA tenancies were re-let when they ended. In 2025 that fell below 53%. 44 MIDLAND FARMER • AUGUST 2026

demand and the prices being achieved depending on location and quality." The increase in farms for sale has been driven largely by the South West and East of England, while some northern regions have seen fewer farms and estates offered for sale. Mr Holt said the strongest demand remained for high-quality holdings. "The best-in-class farms and estates continue to attract strong interest and new buyers to the market and can attract multiple bids." He highlighted strong competition from dairy and poultry businesses for well-equipped farms. International buyers also continue to target prime

Farm agreements are becoming shorter, says Jeremy Moody

Meanwhile, the proportion of holdings sold after an AHA tenancy ended rose from a typical 8-10% to almost 23%. Activity remains dominated by bare land agreements, says Mr Moody. “This has been the case for many years and is often a cause of misunderstanding. Only a small minority of lettings (6.8% in 2025) are of what would conventionally be called ‘farms’ with a house, buildings and land.”

residential estates. However, demand is weaker in some arable areas where lower cereal incomes and 18 months of uncertainty over farming and taxation policy have reduced buyer confidence. Some larger estates have been relotted after failing to sell last year.

Land values Limited sales data suggests average arable land values eased to £10,500/ acre during the first half of 2026, around 6% lower than a year earlier. Average pasture values slipped 3% to £8,600/acre. That said, values remain well above pre-Covid levels despite fewer sales above £12,000/acre, and Mr Holt expects trading conditions to remain uneven. "The publication of the Farming Roadmap has provided greater clarity on the Government's long-term direction of travel for agriculture, although questions remain around implementation and delivery. "The more influential factor when it comes to sentiment is likely to be the resignation of Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, which has introduced uncertainty to the market and some speculation about future taxation policy. However, most buyers intend to hold any new acquisitions for the long term and are prepared to take a view on short-term market fluctuations."

The average FBT length fell from 3.97 years to 3.38 years. Excluding agreements of less than one year, the average declined from 5.05 years to 4.65 years. Larger holdings continued to secure longer agreements. New entrants also fared relatively well, with 79% receiving tenancies lasting more than two years compared with 62.5% of other tenants. “There may be seeds of change; 30% of new lettings where there was a change of tenant were to new entrants - the top end of the usual range. That could indicate the market opening up a bit.” Landlords increasingly cited flexibility when deciding tenancy length, while concern over uncertainty also increased following the October 2024 Budget and proposed inheritance tax reforms. “Uncertainty increased in 2025, after the October 2024 Budget’s Inheritance Tax proposals, alongside concern about schemes, economics and weather,” said Mr Moody. “Very few decisions were made in 2025 because of the Inheritance Tax changes but they infused the wider mood of uncertainty. “However, access to land is a key tool to raise productivity, and the tenanted sector has a potentially salient role in answering British farming’s productivity challenge.”

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FINAL SAY Clodhopper

When common sense goes up in smoke Rewilding is adding fuel to fires during the summer heatwave, says Clodhopper

ildfires in France and Spain have made uncomfortable viewing on our TV screens this summer. Images from Derbyshire’s Tintwistle Moor brought back memories of another era closer to home – the time when stubble burning marked the start of aultumn cultivations. They also raised an important truth: there is a world of difference between carefully managed fire and devastating wildfire. When the straw burning ban finally arrived in 1993, most of us understood why. Smoke across roads. Smoke in villages. Smoke pouring through bedroom windows. Public safety mattered. The NFU argued for a licensing system to weed out the cowboys rather than punish everyone, but Whitehall reached for the blanket ban instead.

“

Westminster theory The theory sounds wonderful in Westminster – but it doesn’t make sense in the countryside. The heather and bracken simply dries out until it becomes the rural equivalent of petrol waiting for a spark. Nobody yet knows what started the Derbyshire fires, and it would be foolish to pretend otherwise. But one thing is beyond dispute. Vast quantities of unmanaged vegetation make any wildfire harder to stop. Farmers and gamekeepers have known that for generations. Carefully planned controlled burning isn’t environmental vandalism. It’s housekeeping.

Instead, ministers have made the system so restrictive that many land managers simply cannot use one of the oldest tools available to reduce fuel loads. The irony is almost too painful to mention. Policies introduced to protect peatlands and lock away carbon risk creating the infernos that destroy both. Apparently that’s progress.

Working countryside The countryside isn’t a museum exhibit. Nor should it be a place where government ministers can test out their latest theories. It is a working landscape managed for centuries by people who actually spend their lives on it. As the climate becomes hotter and drier, common sense ought to be making a comeback. Instead, practical land management is increasingly replaced by paperwork, licences and people who know more about spreadsheets than spades. Perhaps it’s time Whitehall spent less time listening to campaign groups and a little more time listening to the people who have to put the fires out. The government once banned straw burning because it threatened lives, homes and property. If current policy is helping create the conditions for even bigger fires, we could all go up in smoke.

M Barratt / Shutterstock.com

We’re all paying the price

Farmers adapted, as we always do. New combines appeared with straw choppers. Alternative markets developed. Some straw merchants made promises they never kept, leaving plenty of growers with rows of unwanted straw to sort out themselves. Life moved on. But I can’t help wondering whether we’ve swung from one extreme to the other. And we’re all paying the price. For years we’ve been told nature knows best. Leave it alone. Rewild it. Let it recover naturally. Controlled burning? Bad. Gamekeepers? Suspicious. Farmers? Best kept away from the matches.

46 MIDLAND FARMER • AUGUST 2026

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