UK FARMERS face a 'profound crisis' in the event of a no-deal Brexit – but there is uncertainty ahead even if a deal is agreed, and diversifying farm incomes may be the best tactic to prepare for a slump in taxpayer support.

As the sector moves towards a new UK agricultural policy, ENFU policy adviser Jonathan Scurlock noted that farmers will increasingly be paid for public goods and environmental services, as direct farm payments are progressively removed.

“It’s important that farmers and landowners begin to look at developing alternative income streams," said Mr Scurlock. "Looking at our own NFU farmer confidence survey, over the past couple of years, over a third of farmers have diversified into renewable energy projects, benefitting from cost savings and generating additional income. Many farmers will have to diversify now as a necessity."

Mr Scurlock will be delivering a presentation at Energy and Rural Business Show, which takes place on February 6 and 7, aimed at farmers and landowners wanting advice and guidance on the future of sustainable agriculture, with dedicated ‘How-to’ farm and land diversification workshops, a multi-streamed renewable energy conference, as well as exhibitions dedicated to each area of the show.

Diversification topics covered by the show’s workshops will include:

• How to set up and maintain a glamping site;

• How to set up a wedding venue;

• How to establish an equine venture;

• Becoming a flower farmer;

• How to benefit from alpaca farming;

• Setting up a fish farm – what do you need to know?;

• Producing Cider – is this an option for you?;

• How to farm organically;

• How to diversify into forestry.

The show is free to attend, and tickets can be reserved online: http://www.energyandruralbusiness.co.uk/visit/register-to-visit