Outcomes of Farmgate nutrient balance analyses.

[Dan Smith, Herefordshire Rural Hub; 10 minutes]

Dan Smith (Hub Farm Facilitator, Herefordshire Rural Hub) delivered the presentation Wye Nutrient Balance Pilot Programme (link) with the slide headings: Pilot programme; Nutrient imports by category; Nutrient exports by category; Nutrient balance kg/ha, and Import vs Export; Nutrient load scenarios; What next?; and Garnstone Farms – Case Study Nutrient Balance 2022, and 2024.

The Chairperson commented on the value of the project in adding data, granularity, and understanding on a farm by farm basis which would be key to identifying the right actions.  It was suggested that sharing further details on the changes to the business in the identified case study would be beneficial.  Dan Smith said that the case studies were going to be developed further and in accessible formats, including videos.

In response to a question from Andrew McRobb, Dan Smith commented on some of the factors that had impacted on nutrient balance, and emphasised the importance of engagement with farmers and knowledge exchange.

Pat Stirling noted the environmental and financial benefits of reducing imported fertilisers.  In response to a question about soil testing, Dan Smith drew attention to the next agenda item and commented on the utility of increasing the ‘tools within the box’ to provide tangible answers and to bring about effective change.

In response to questions from Louise Bodnar, Dan Smith clarified that pilot was undertaken in two years, and commented on engagement with the supply chain, including conversations outside of the catchment.

In response to a further question from Pat Stirling, Dan Smith said that the nitrogen figures were unexpectedly high but, as excesses could be quantified in budgeting terms, increased understanding could be a potential driver for behavioural change.  Kate Speke Adams observed that the situation illustrated the limitations of regulatory approaches alone, as nutrient excesses through livestock feed had been overlooked for many years.  Pat Stirling emphasised the need to work together for the benefit of the environment and for industries in the catchment.

The Chairperson thanked Dan Smith and noted that it was important for the board to look at nitrogen, as well phosphate and total phosphorus.