On the 6th of February, The Royal Countryside Fund will hold a free workshop at Hexham Mart offering practical advice on how livestock and mixed farms can increase biodiversity.
The session is sponsored by Barbour, and hosted by environmental consultant and farmer Fraser Hugill, who will explain how farmers can build on the work they are already doing for nature. Key topics will include what wildlife needs to flourish, and how farming and nature can work together while retaining farm profitability.
Keith Halstead, executive director of The Royal Countryside Fund said: “We are very grateful to Barbour for their continuing support of our charity through this new biodiversity workshop, which forms part of The Royal Countryside Fund’s wider commitment of helping British farming families to improve the environment on their farm.
“The Royal Countryside Fund firmly believes in supporting productive agriculture that is in harmony with nature, and this new workshop demonstrates our commitment, like Barbour’s, to building a more sustainable future for all rural and farming communities.”
Tom Burston, the group coordinator, said: “Understanding the potential of biodiversity on a farm is as important as it has ever been. Its role is fundamental for farmers across Northumberland who are looking to make productive gains. This workshop is a great opportunity to consider how biodiversity can enhance farm businesses.”
Barbour has supported The Royal Countryside Fund since 2010, and is funding the pilot project for up to 20 small, family-run livestock farms to develop their understanding of biodiversity.
Sue Newton, senior global corporate communications manager said: “As a long-time supporter of The Royal Countryside Fund, we are delighted to be supporting this important biodiversity project in Northumberland.
“The project aligns with Barbour’s sustainability commitments to protect nature, reduce carbon and encourage flourishing and prosperous communities and we really hope that it will provide farmers with ideas and practical advice on how they can increase biodiversity and ensure a thriving environment on their farms for generations to come.”
For more information go to www.royalcountrysidefund.org.uk
