The old saying goes 'the best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago, the second-best time is now'. Given the role trees can play in increasing the economic and ecological resilience of farms, this phrase couldn't be more accurate. However, when it comes to planting trees on farms it's not always so straight forward. For example, which species of tree are best suited alongside crops and livestock, and how can trees be managed alongside existing operations? How many trees should you plant and how should they be protected? What markets exist for timber, fruit, nuts and other tree products?
This September these questions and much more will be answered at the UK’s first Agroforestry Show at Eastbrook Farm near Swindon. This two-day event will bring together farmers, foresters and arborists from across the UK to share practical knowledge, showcase exciting on-farm demonstrations, and celebrate the UK’s growing agroforestry movement.
Agroforestry is much more than just lines of trees in fields, and can include hedgerows and living barns, shelterbelts and riparian buffers, wood pasture and woodland grazing... the list goes on. In fact, take a look at your farm right now – you're probably already an agroforester! But are you gaining the best value from the trees on your land? What might be the opportunities for managing these trees or planting more to achieve your business objectives?
In addition to the exciting program of talks, a free drop-in design clinic will give you the opportunity to share your ideas and questions with advisors – you can even bring along a map of your farm or agroforestry designs to help develop your ideas. You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with tree nurseries, equipment suppliers, researchers and funders to discuss your plans so that you walk away from the event ready to get started!
So, if you’re looking to increase the resilience and productivity of your farm, then make sure you get your ticket to The Agroforestry Show. But don’t just take my word for it, take a look at www.agroforestryshow.com
To find out who’s speaking and which businesses are already rooting for agroforestry!
The Agroforestry Show is organised by the Soil Association and the Woodland Trust.
Supported by our lead partner
The Soil Association is registered with the Charity commission for England and Wales, charity number 206862 and with the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator, charity number SCO39168.
The Woodland Trust is a charity registered in England and Wales (No. 294344) and in Scotland (No. SC038885). A non-profit-making company limited by guarantee. Registered in England No. 1982873.
*This article contains sponsored content and does not necessarily represent the views of The Scottish Farmer.
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