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Wold Farm

A farmer’s perspective on science and technology to improve wheat production All Party Parliamentary Group on Science & Technology in Agriculture January 12 th 2015 London. Wold Farm. My farming. Third generation – family partnership 410ha - mostly rented

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Wold Farm

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  1. A farmer’s perspectiveon science and technologyto improve wheat productionAll Party Parliamentary Groupon Science & Technology in AgricultureJanuary 12th 2015London

  2. Wold Farm

  3. My farming • Third generation – family partnership • 410ha - mostly rented • Arable – wheat, barley for seed, oilseed rape, freezing peas, potatoes, forage maize • Six course rotation – no second cereals • Livestock – 400 head beef cattle – suckler animals • Permanent grasses – environmental schemes

  4. Man made environment producing food

  5. Environmental management

  6. Man made - not producing foodwith no science behind it

  7. Sustainable, efficient, high yielding, quality wheat

  8. It begins with soil – the science behind it & the technology of establishment

  9. Genetics, Nutrition, Plant protection

  10. Technology vs Politics

  11. Europe is being left behind • Good initial science but not translated in field • R & D leaving • The answers are no longer simply ‘in the can’ • Resistant weeds – blackgrass, Disease pressure • Fewer agrochemicals – subjective bans • Wheat yields stalling in comparison to Maize • Holistic approach, whole rotation, genetics & technology must target sustainable wheat

  12. Science & Technology • It is the key – we are more sophisticated • Must translate in the field • Urgent necessity masked by low commodity prices – I work in a global market • What do we realistically aspire to? • Can we match the best? • Application Science & Technology is vital for affordable food

  13. Speak up for Science • Often the best kept secret • Truth about Trade & Technology • NIAB, JIC & Rothamsted - BBSRC • Seed royalties are vital • HGCA & AHDB play a vital role • Loss of Expt Husbandry Farms • EU has to be accountable for decisions and positively encourage R & D application • I know the next generation will judge me!!

  14. Thank you

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