The Royal Agricultural Society of England (RASE) has launched a new membership offering, which for the first time includes the option for anyone in the industry to self-nominate themselves as a Fellow grade member.
David Grint, CEO at RASE, explains that Fellow membership applications will be reviewed by the Membership Council, to ensure that the applicant demonstrates excellence in their area of work and a contribution to the practical, commercial or scientific progression of agriculture.
“It is important to us that we move away from the quiet tap on the shoulder, to an inclusive system where anyone can be recognised for their contributions to agriculture,” he says. “I would encourage anyone who believes they meet the membership criteria to apply.”
In addition to the Fellow membership, the society now has student, associate and full membership options, plus corporate membership which is open to any organisation operating within the agricultural industry.
“RASE remains committed to the progression of knowledge within the agricultural community,” says Mr. Grint. “Agriculture is in the midst of huge changes, as the industry transitions to the use of practices and technologies that enable the levels of productivity required to sustain the human population, the profitability needed for farming businesses to thrive and the environmental benefits required to reverse both the biodiversity and climate crises.
“Our aim is to support farmers and others in the industry to navigate the changes that are coming, which we do via the delivery of resources and events to promote the sharing of ideas, experiences and development of expertise,” he adds.
Membership benefits include access to a members’ only area of the website, which will include a library of resources and merchandise shop, the opportunity to enter the RASE Awards and access the RASE archives, and will also gain access to RASE members events, plus priority access to events which are open to non-members. For full details visit the membership page of the website: https://www.rase.org.uk/rase-membership/.