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New Group Will Help Cumbria’s Organic Farmers Improve Efficiency

SAC News Release Ref. No: 11N138
Published: 11 Nov 2011

Organic wheat field (opens in new window)

SAC (Scottish Agricultural College) has set up a new group in Cumbria to help local organic enterprises become more efficient.

LEADER funded as part of the Rural Skills Cumbria project, the Organic Focus Farm Group will meet on a regular basis to discuss practical ways to maximise efficiency – and profits - in today’s challenging economic climate.

The first meeting, at Redhills, Penrith on 23 November, will look at sheep production. Future meetings will discuss dairy and beef production, health planning, grassland management, sales and marketing opportunities and more. Participants will have the opportunity to visit other local organic producers through the course of the programme to share ideas. Many of the issues discussed will also be relevant to conventional farmers.

SAC’s Milnthorpe-based Agricultural Consultant James Hadwin, who leads the group, said: “It is a challenging time for all farmers, whether organic or conventional, so the focus has to be on efficiency. Organic producers face particular issues since they obviously can’t rely on artificial inputs, while the recession means they have also lost out on the premium they could previously achieve on their produce.

“We have designed the focus farm programme to fit with the needs of organic farms in Cumbria but much of what we discuss will also interest conventional farmers - all are welcome to take part. The best way to bring new ideas into action is to learn from other farmers so we are particularly excited about the on-farm opportunities for participants to share their problems and ideas.”

At the first meeting, SAC Sheep Specialist Dr John Vipond will discuss how organic producers can improve flock performance. Amongst the issues on the agenda will be nutrition, with a focus on supplying the correct form of protein for the best ewe and lamb performance. James Hadwin will also be giving an overview of the Organic Focus Farm Concept and details of forthcoming events.

The Organic focus farm group introductory meeting is on Wednesday 23rd November 2011 from 6.45pm to 9pm at the Rural Enterprise Centre, Redhills, Penrith, CA11 0DT. The event is free and supper is provided. To book a place please contact Emily Maclean on 015395 66987.

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News Release Issued By

Ms Jane Smernicki
Head of Communications
SAC (Scottish Agricultural College) Work SAC, West Mains Road,
Edinburgh
EH9 3JG
TelWork 0131 535 4331

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