Chickens in a field

New poultry apprenticeship launched

The British poultry industry launched a new apprenticeship at the British Pig & Poultry Fair earlier this summer. The new poultry apprenticeship scheme has been designed to bring skilled workers into the sector. It also aims to develop the existing skills and talent of those already working in the industry. The scheme was launched by…

Firefighters Battling A Wildfire

Advice on farm fire and wildfire risks

Following the recent heatwave, there has been increased concern about the risk of wild fires such as the ones seen in Marlow and Saddleworth Moor. There is always a risk of wild fire on farms, but this risk is increased with high temperatures, a lack of rain and harvest.   Here’s a reminder of what…

Farm Safety Week Logo

Farm Safety Week

This week is Farm Safety Week (16-20 July). Follow #FarmSafetyWeek for practical advice and guidance. Here are their top tips for staying safe on the farm. Top Tips for Staying Safe on the Farm You can’t work safely unless you know how to – make sure someone experienced shows you what to do or that…

Agri Civils Agricultural Construction site

Planning Rules Relaxed for Farm Buildings

Recent changes to permitted development rights (PDRs) mean that farmers will be allowed to increase the size of buildings on their land and convert more buildings to housing. PDRs allow particular building works and changes to be completed without the need to apply for full planning permission. Announced by Dominic Raab, Housing Minister, last month,…

Would a Super-Monster Wolf Protect your Farm?

A robot wolf designed to protect farms has proved hugely successful in Japan. So much so that it is going into mass production next month. The aptly named “Super Monster Wolf” was designed to keep wild boar away from chestnut and rice crops in Japan. The 65cm-long and 50cm-tall robotic wolf was deployed in trials…

DJI Phantom drone scanning a crop field

UK AgriTech Companies on the Rise

Agriculture technology, also known as agritech, is a fast-growing industry focused on improving traditional forms of farming through technology. The industry is particularly appealing to investors and very much an on-trend area of investment. According to UK Government figures, the agritech industry currently generates over £14 billion in turnover and employs more than half a…

Close up of pig in a pig sty

40% of UK Farmers to Invest in Animal Welfare in 2018

According to research commissioned by fast-food giant McDonald’s, almost half of UK farmers are prioritising animal welfare over other investments. Retailers and consumers are increasingly demanding high-welfare food and becoming more interested about where their food comes from and the farming practices used to produce it. The survey, carried out by the National Farm Research…