The Farmers Mart Aug/Sep 2013 - Issue 29 | Page 14

INDUSTRY NEWS Yorkshire Conservation & Farming Sharing best practice in our countryside. In the past 25 years, farmers have increasingly been required to combine wildlife conservation and environmental protection into their businesses – and in future this looks set to be even more important. The “Greening of the CAP” – as every farmer or land manager is aware – is now a crucial issue as they have to demonstrate how they spend public subsidies in caring for the countryside. One organisation that is helping farmers and anyone involved in land management is Yorkshire Conservation & Farming. Set up in 2012 as the successor to the Farming & Wildlife Advisory Group (FWAG), it is a not-for-profit organisation that fills a vital link between farmers, land owners and others interested in the countryside, wildlife, conservation, environmental issues and healthy eating. Run by volunteers, it shares best practice and knowledge in the Yorkshire countryside. But it does not support those involved directly with farming: anyone interest in the current and future efforts to which farmers and land managers are going for the benefit of wildlife conservation in the Yorkshire landscape, can be involved. YC&F can show them at first hand the farms at which European Agricultural Subsidies are helping to fund important conservation and wildlife habitats. They can also teach valuable new skills as well as traditional crafts such as hedge laying and drystone walling, to ensure that these skills are not allowed to die out. Another bonus is that YC&F is fast becoming the largest and most active social hub for likeminded individuals across Yorkshire. YC&F works closely with schools to help ensure youngsters have access to, and understanding of, the importance of farming, food, conservation, wildlife and environmental issues. YC&F works closely with the Yorkshire Farming & Wildlife Partnership (WFWP), which is continuing to provide the advice previously delivered through FWAG in Yorkshire. Advisers have a strong track record with more than 43 years’ experience between them, advising farmers and landowners across the county providing practical advice, help with paperwork, project design and implementation and organising technical events. Nick Ramsden, Chairman of Yorkshire Farming & Conservation, farms 370 hectares at Home Farm in Myton on Swale, at the northern end of the Vale of York. Nick and his brother Nigel, run a mixed livestock and arable farm which is participating in the Higher Level Stewardship Scheme, and has also recently installed a wood-fuelled heating system to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Nick explained why TC&F is so valuable a resource right now. “With the inevitable greening of agricultural support, now more than ever is the time for farmers and landowners to join YC&F to obtain top quality advice and attend useful, interesting environmental events.” All YC&F members can take part in a full calendar of farm walks, tours and other events and receive news from this lively and growing group. If you would like to know more, visit yorkshireconservationandfarming.org.uk 14 Aug/Sep 2013 FarmersMart To read more, visit www.farmers-mart.co.uk