Activities

Abstract:
Environmental management of housed livestock requires a sound understanding of both animal science and environmental engineering. Advances in environmental sensors and control technology will enable tomorrow’s livestock farmer to satisfy the increasing demands of society for intensive livestock production that meets tight specifications for livestock products with minimal adverse impact on the rural environment. Inclusion of environmental management as a key objective of precision livestock farming is arguably the best way in which housed livestock can be farmed sustainably.

Abstract:
Pasteurellosis is a serious disease affecting sheep and cattle worldwide. The best means of control is believed to be through vaccination although up to recently the available vaccines have not been very effective. Research at Moredun Research Institute (MRI) into pasteurellosis caused by Mannheimia haemolytica and Pasteurella trehalosi demonstrated that immunity to infection could be stimulated by components of the bacterial cells which were preferentially expressed in response to low iron conditions. Second generation vaccines containing these iron regulated proteins (IRPs) were developed and tested in sheep and cattle disease models where they were shown to confer protection against infec...

Abstract:
The record of animal health in the UK has been described as abysmal. The causes of the recent outbreaks of major animal health epidemics is explored. The changes in farming practice that have increased the risks of disease are described, with some suggestions for the management of those risks without compromise to economic and efficient production. A structure for the delivery of a practical and workable national animal health strategy is proposed, with responsibilities shared between the major stakeholders. The principles of the strategy are defined, so that improvements in animal health will lead to a better and more efficient livestock agriculture, whilst the welfare of the animals is mai...

Abstract:
The pharmaceutical, herbal and health food industries operate in rather different environments and therefore make different demands on their suppliers of raw materials. They all, however, need a reliable supply of material from species outside of the mainstream, with well-documented quality control, and will therefore best suit those farming enterprises which already have experience of specialist crop production. The quantities involved are not large, but can provide a profitable niche business for growers able to master the technical challenges.

Abstract:
The paper considers the opportunity for economy in the cost of cultivations for combinable crops against the background of the research findings of the past 30 years, changes in farm structure and labour availability, low cash returns, grass weed problems and environmental concerns. The suggested target is a combined labour and machinery cost of £200-£250 per hectare with no reduction in crop yield. This can be achieved with large machines and reduced cultivations on many farms having the advantage of scale and both soil and climatic suitability. The mouldboard plough does, however, remain the universally applicable, reliable, and often economically competitive, primary cultivation tool.

Abstract:
Livestock producers come under a great deal of criticism from those opposed to commercial animal farming, many of whom embrace the philosophy of animal rights and argue that in doing so they hold the moral high ground. In responding to these criticisms producers need to be sure of their own ethical foundations and must be able to give reasoned moral argument to support what they do and why they do it. They must show that in caring for their stock they work to high welfare standards that are based on firm ethical principles.

Abstract:
“Change or decay” outlines the development of Denhay Farms Ltd from its formation in 1952 to the present day. The article shows how change has been an integral part of the growth of the business. The author expresses his view of the pressures that are upon agriculture at the present time and how Denhay is addressing them. Finally, the article looks ahead and highlights that it is how people are managed that is critical to the future success of the business

Abstract:
This paper relates the development of the farming activities of the Papworth family in Norfolk. It shows how the business has developed over the years since the 1920s through diversification into different enterprises, contract farming, consultancy and retail activities. The success of the business is founded on the attention paid to the efficiency of the operations and business, the management of the soil and the crucial role of people and their management. The farming Group has narrowed its enterprise base in recent years and has developed more environmentally sensitive management approaches.

Abstract:
The People’s Republic of China is a very large country where political changes are occurring rapidly. The agriculture of the country is undergoing significant change and this presents export opportunities for UK producers, particularly in the commodities of malting barley and wheat. There is also export potential for other agricultural products, scientific expertise, technology and training. This paper analyses the trends in Chinese agriculture and food and drink consumption and identifies export opportunities for British agriculture to exploit. The analyses are based on the personal experience of the author through his work, with others, with British Cereals Exports (BCE) and the China Bri...

Abstract:
Between my applying for a Nuffield award and being lucky enough to be awarded the first Food Chain Scholarship, farmers in Britain suffered the nations' worst foot and mouth outbreak for over 30 years. This coming in the aftermath of BSE, and the outbreak of E-coli 0157 in Scotland, had left the beef industry very demoralized. This situation was combined with the ever more rapid march towards globalization and EU expansion, and the time has certainly come for the farming industry to take stock and work out strategies not only to survive, but to thrive in the future. Producers must take responsibility for food safety and brand the products and market beef in a tough competitive market. We wi...

Abstract:
Clearly for the British beef industry, an ‘optimistic’ scenario (or better), is the one it would wish to see by 2015 rather than the ‘realistic’ - but fatalistic one. What, therefore, are the implications for the strategic development of the industry, the ways in which individuals, companies and agencies as well as Government can influence their strategies to achieve the better scenario for everyone involved? This paper explains some of the historical trends and examines future potential drivers for the industry. Executive summary of the implications for future strategy: 1. Need to improve the understanding of consumer needs - implies more consumer research e.g. into consumers’ response to...

Abstract:
The decline in the numbers working in agriculture has led to a disassociation between consumers and the source of their food. Shoppers’ perceptions of agriculture are largely based on clouded childhood memories, second-hand information and the occasional horror story in the media. Many do not even think about the source of their food. The Women’s Food and Farming Union (WFU) was founded more than twenty years ago on the belief that there was a need to reconnect consumers with producers and the countryside – the source of their food. This paper outlines the history of the WFU and the work it does to inform agriculture’s customers. Informed consumers who have a realistic understanding of moder...

Abstract:
This paper argues that the manner in which agriculture is perceived by wider society has changed over the last generation but agriculture has not responded effectively to this change. While other industries have realised the importance of PR in the modern world, agriculture has not. Now is the time for new thinking and new strategies to promote British farmers as producing good value, wholesome, food while respecting animal welfare and environmental responsibilities. This is indeed the actuality but the irony is that increasingly it is not the perception. This contradiction is not only costing the industry money, it is also jeopardising its future. In a postscript some encouraging developmen...

Abstract:
Carol Trewin examines the role of the local food economy in the future prosperity of British farming, with particular reference to the growing local and regional food sector in the South West of England.

Abstract:
This article traces the career of John Winter, MBE (1912 – 1980) (Figure 1), one of the leading agricultural journalists of the second half of the twentieth century. It deals with his approach to journalism by which he was able to tackle often complex and technical subjects in a way that, without devaluing the content for the specialist, provided a factual and easily understood commentary for a largely non agricultural readership. It illustrates the importance that editors of the national daily newspapers placed on what, at the time was arguably the nation’s most important industry.

Abstract:
This paper presents the ambitious and exciting plans for the development of Stoneleigh Park as a centre for All of the Countryside, All in One Place Working Out the Future of Farming. Stoneleigh Park will become the one national meeting place for all consumers and producers in the agricultural and rural industries. We will host the UK’s first Rural Innovation Park, building on industry collaboration as well as creating the UK’s first National Equine Centre. New recreational access and sports training facilities for local communities will be seen at Stoneleigh. We will entertain and involve the public with new attractions and events all year round, for example “The World’s Biggest Farm Shop” ...

Abstract:
Eden's capital funding and charitable aims require that the project works for regional regeneration, including a focus on agriculture, horticulture and land use. The project has generated in the region of £150 million per annum in economic benefit to the region. Benefits come indirectly through the associated tourism industry, and directly through Eden's relationship with its suppliers, which is based on an aggressive commitment to local sourcing. The Project itself has a challenge to accommodate the numbers of visitors arriving, and is looking for more capital funding to sustain these returns. Strategies for building on the benefits for others focus on influencing the wider tourism sector ...

Abstract:
Rural tourism is vital in preserving economic activity in rural areas. It has become a more important industry than agriculture in England and Wales generating expenditure of some £14bn per annum and 380,000 jobs. While the Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) has the lead role in Government for tourism, there are many other branches of government and statutory bodies with an interest in the subject and providing grant aid and the situation can become confused. It is no clearer who speaks for rural tourism businesses themselves. The Country Land and Business Association has produced a strategy, which suggests rural partnerships between Government and providers. Other areas of import...

Abstract:
This paper addresses the reasons for and the rationale of wind energy. In assessing its potential as a non- polluting source of electricity production its competition with conventional and other renewable generation is illustrated. The potential of an agricultural diversification is fully explored explaining the capital structure, risks and rewards and options on how best the landowner can gain from his “wind rights”.

Abstract:
The role of forests and their contribution to sustainable development has been the subject of intense debate by governments and policy makers around the world. The objectives of forestry policy are increasingly driven by factors that are external to the sector. This paper considers the current international scene and the main global trends, and assesses their likely impacts. It begins with a brief overview of the state of the world’s forest resources and the international discussions on the role of forests in sustainable development. It considers, briefly, some of the main factors impacting on the sector: global wood supplies and the globalisation of trade, technology and innovation, renewab...

Abstract:
British farming needs to attract quality leaders, farmers and employees to continually develop. Current emphasis appears to be on the economic, production and environmental aspects, with little documentation or evidence found on the social or holistic aspects of farming. This paper seeks to address this imbalance focusing on the fundamental issue of the purpose of the farm and how the farm can be run as an integral part of a person's life rather than the person's life being determined by the farm.

Abstract:
The purpose of benchmarking programmes of study is explained. Benchmark statements published by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education profile the nature of courses provided for students and the standards that graduates attain. The process of developing the benchmark statement for agriculture and related subjects is described. The relevance of the benchmark statements for universities and colleges, for course applicants and for employers of graduates is related.