Natural England is inviting local farmers to a half day farm demonstration event at Wigglesworth Hall near Skipton to find out how they can save money and increase grass production by improving soil condition across their farm.

The Catchment Sensitive Farming team is organising this practical, on-farm event that will demonstrate how best practice soil management will keep valuable nutrients where you need them – in the field! Aimed at farmers in the Ribble catchment, the Catchment Sensitive Farming Officer, Michael Graham commented:

‘We encourage farmers in the area to attend this event which will focus on practical methods of improving the productivity of soil through improved management; at a time when fertiliser prices are so high, it’s vital that nutrients in the soil can be utilised for grass production to best effect. This workshop will explain how best practice can help farmers to reduce their fertiliser bills significantly.’

Nicola Hall, Soil Specialist with the Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group will lead the free half day workshop. During this on-farm event, Nicky will:

• Explain how to examine and assess soil condition across your farm
• Outline what you need to do to ensure that you are meeting cross compliance requirements with regard to your Soil Protection Review
• Provide an update on the fertiliser recommendations included in the standard RB 209 guide so that you can optimise fertiliser application for your grass crop
• Show how techniques such as soil aeration and sub-soiling can significantly improve soil structure and therefore nutrient availability to the crop

A free lunch will follow at the Craven Arms in Giggleswick and all farmers attending will also receive a free information pack giving details of soil assessment methods, best practice management, tools for nutrient planning and sources of further advice. The event starts at 10.30 am on Tuesday 25th January 2011.