The South West AgriTech Showcase will exhibit how critical British farmers are to the UK food supply chain, and how technology can further strengthen it, according to event organisers.
The event, which will be held at Exeter Racecourse in Devon, takes place on Thursday, April 20, 2023.
It is set to feature innovation, discussion and partnership for farmers, landowners, agri-businesses and industry stakeholders.
Investment lead at Wiltshire Council, a sponsor of the event, Russell Frith said recent events have shown how vulnerable the nation’s food supply chain is.
“Climate change is only going to continue to put pressure on agriculture and food security,” he said.
“Farmers are being asked to be more efficient, produce more for less, and reduce food production’s impact on the environment, including improvements to farmland and wider biodiversity.
“Agri-tech and innovation are vital components in helping farmers meet these objectives, as well as in building resilient and profitable businesses.
“We’re confident that this conference will give attendees the information, tools, and networks they need to progress to net zero, build sustainable businesses, and enhance food security.”
Free tickets for the event can be obtained via Eventbrite and more information can be found on the South West AgriTech Showcase website.
Soil restoration
At the event senior farming advisor at the Soil Association, Katy Jo Stanton, will be showcasing farmer’s actions in tackling soil restoration and preservation.
“We’ll be sharing some of our own farmer-led research and innovation projects which are fundamental in developing farm level solutions,” she said.
“And, of course, we’re really keen to speak with farmers and growers from the region.”
Stanton said having open conversations is key in developing solutions that benefit both the farm business and the farmed environment.
Hutchinsons’ head of soils, Ian Robertson, will be also be participating in conversations surrounding the importance of staying invested in the soils; better understanding leads to improved management and nutrient use efficiency.
“One of the key themes for my session is opening a conversation with farmers to bring awareness to how soil functions, and what impact different cultivation techniques, and the inputs used, have on soils,” he said.
“Having these discussions can help find better ways of producing cereal or grass crops without compromising the business or environment.”
Bringing together farmers, landowners, agri-businesses and industry stakeholders will create a powerful room, said Joanna Rufus, chair at South West AgriTech.
“We especially need farmers to communicate what is happening at the coalface. Agri-tech is a critical component in helping farmers achieve the priorities like net zero as well as developing a more robust food supply chain. But if farmers aren’t in the room, innovation risks losing traction,” she said.
