I recently had the opportunity to visit the Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group (FWAG) in Norfolk. Established as a charity in the 1960s by forward-thinking farmers who recognised the importance of the environment in farming success, FWAG helps farmers understand the environmental value of their land and maximize agri-environment options.
Farmers, responsible for overseeing 71% of the UK's land, serve as vital environmental caretakers. Their contribution is indispensable in aiding the UK to fulfil its nature and climate goals. At present, the UK stands at a critical juncture concerning the prospects of agriculture and the health of the environment.
The FWAG unites local Farming and Wildlife Advisory Groups to continue serving farmers nationwide, adhering to FWAG's core standards and values. FWAG Farm Advisers provide a wide range of expert advice on Agri-Environmental matters, assisting in tailored scheme and grant applications, including submission and record-keeping support.
During our conversation, we touched upon my concerns regarding the development of our food system, which has led to substantial power differentials and economic disparities. The system is predominantly controlled by large corporations with considerable financial resources and negotiating strength. Farmers have limited influence when interacting with major multinational companies, making it difficult for them to negotiate fair contracts, prices, or terms. Despite bearing a significant portion of the risks associated with food production, farmers often receive minimal profits from selling their products through supermarket supply chains.
I believe that implementation of legally enforceable purchasing codes across all supply chain sectors is crucial. I’m pleased that Defra has introduced a code for the dairy industry and plans to extend this to pork, eggs, and horticulture. However, a more comprehensive set of codes involving all stakeholders is required. Collaboration between independent adjudicators and the Groceries Code Adjudicator is essential for effectively upholding the codes.
We also discussed how supporting environmentally friendly farming practices is advantageous economically and practically, as it emphasizes nature's role in long-term food production. By reducing inputs like pesticides and promoting regenerative practices, farmers can improve soil and water quality, creates diverse habitats, and balance land use to benefit food production, nature preservation, and climate mitigation.
As access to Environmental Land Management schemes is competitive, choosing the right options aligned with local environmental priorities is crucial for success. FWAG advisers are dedicated to helping farmers develop strong applications that benefit both their businesses and the environment. ELM schemes are instrumental in delivering genuine environmental improvements on farmland, and FWAG is committed to supporting farmers in achieving sustainable and profitable practices.
Link: https://norfolkfwag.co.uk
