From Rock to Root

In this episode of Agronomy Matters, we take you deep underground to explore Boulby Mine, home to the world’s only polyhalite mining operation. Located in East Cleveland, this extraordinary site is the UK’s deepest mine and a key player in sustainable agriculture. Join us as we uncover the mining behind polyhalite, a unique multi-nutrient fertiliser, and hear from  the workers here how the mining operation has changed over the years as well as learn about the mines fascinating history to its vast underground network stretching beneath the North Sea. We’ll also explore the challenges and innovations behind extracting this valuable mineral. With on-site recordings from inside the mine, we bring you as close as possible to the action, though you may notice some variations in sound quality along the way. So, strap in as we descend into the depths of Boulby Mine and discover why polyhalite is shaping the future of agriculture. 

In this episode of Agronomy Matters, host Thomas Vaughan, Environment Manager for BASIS, dives into the exciting world of agronomy and the rewarding career paths it offers. Joining the discussion are Greig Baird, Head of Agronomy Teams Scotland, and Laura Buckingham, Area Business Manager for Anglia at Agrii. They share their journeys into agronomy, the essential skills for success, and how the role of an agronomist has evolved over the years. From career highs and challenges to the importance of continued learning, this episode is packed with insights for anyone considering or advancing a career in agronomy. If you're interested in training opportunities within the industry, visit our website or get in touch at [email protected]. Tune in and discover what makes agronomy such a dynamic and fulfilling profession!

While our regular host, Thomas Vaughan, is enjoying a well-earned break on the ski slopes, Jessica Deunert, Marketing & Communications Manager at BASIS, steps in to introduce this episode. In this conversation: Harry Henderson, BASIS Technical Manager, interviews Ian Holmes, Farm Technical Director at Strawson Limited, a third-generation family farming business specializing in cereal and vegetable production across the UK. Together, they explore the fascinating world of winter vegetable farming, discussing the wide variety of crops Strawson Limited produces, the unique challenges of farming in the colder months, and the keys to their longstanding success. Recording note: This episode was captured on a cold, blustery day in the field, so the sound may have a touch of natural ambiance, but the insights are well worth it! So, wrap yourself in a cozy blanket, grab a warm drink, and enjoy this deep dive into the resilient and rewarding work of winter vegetable farming.

Welcome to another episode of Agronomy Matters! Hosted by Thomas Vaughan, Commercial Manager for BASIS, this episode dives into two topics in sustainable agriculture and carbon management:  Enhanced Weathering: Featuring Jez Wardman, Chief Agronomist at UNDO. Jez shares insights into the innovative practice of spreading basalt rock dust on agricultural land to capture carbon and improve soil health. We’ll explore the science behind this approach, the outcomes of trials conducted with Newcastle University, and the potential economic and environmental benefits for farmers.  Woodland Creation and Carbon Finance: With Emma Stewart from the Woodland Carbon Code. Emma explains how landowners can contribute to the UK’s climate goals while generating income. We discuss project eligibility, the concept of "additionality," and why Woodland Carbon Units (WCUs) are a trusted option for high-quality carbon offsets.  Whether you are a farmer, a land manager, or simply interested in sustainability, this episode offers practical advice and forward-thinking ideas to help tackle climate change.  BASIS Courses:  In-person Carbon and Greenhouse Gases certificate, accredited by Harper Adams University.  Online Principles of Carbon and Greenhouse Gases course on the BASIS Classroom. Details at basis-reg.co.uk. 

Agronomy Matters is back! After a summer break, we return with an essential episode on health and safety in agriculture. Stephanie Berkeley from the Farm Safety Foundation (Yellow Wellies) reflects on this summer’s Farm Safety Week and how the Foundation is encouraging safer practices on farms. Gillian Nicholls, Principal Epidemiologist with the HSE's PIPAH study, discusses the importance of the study, shares recent findings, and explains how sprayer operators can get involved. Tune in to stay informed and make a difference in creating safer, healthier farms!

In this month’s episode, we’re summarising Groundswell 2024. We’ll chat with folks from various stands including direct drill manufacturers, Rothamsted Research, the University of Cambridge, the Sustainable Food Trust, and more. Our goal is to give you a taste of the discussions and ideas from this year’s event, especially for those who couldn’t make it. Tune in and get a feel for what Groundswell 2024 was all about! Find out more about our training opportunities here https://bit.ly/basiseducation

In this episode of Agronomy Matters, host Thomas Vaughan, the Environment Manager for BASIS, welcomes two guests from the Lancashire Wildlife Trust: Sarah Johnson and Mike Longden. Sarah and Mike are members of the Peatlands Team. One of their many projects involves exploring paludiculture, also known as wetter farming. Through initiatives such as the wetter farming trial at Rindle Field, they work to restore degraded peatlands, enhance biodiversity, and mitigate climate change while maintaining agricultural viability. Their efforts highlight the Lancashire Wildlife Trust’s dedication to environmental conservation and sustainable land management. Listeners are invited to join as the podcast delves into the world of paludiculture and wetter farming, uncovering the transformative potential of these practices with insights from Sarah and Mike.

Welcome to this episode of Agronomy Matters! Join us as we journey into the world of UK sugar beet production with Dr. Vicky Foster, Head of BBRO. Discover BBRO's strategies for addressing aphid challenges in the upcoming season and learn about the impacts of the wet winter on sugar beet farmers' decision-making. Gain insights into the expected pest landscape and how growers can navigate it using Integrated Pest Management principles. We'll also discuss the influences of market dynamics and sustainability on growers' choices, and explore cutting-edge research shaping the future of sugar beet farming. Tune in for a fascinating discussion! BASIS Advanced Modules

In this episode of Agronomy Matters, listeners are invited on an exploratory journey into the future of farming with two distinguished guests. As the UK embraces the potential of drone technology across various sectors, including agriculture, our guests shed light on its burgeoning significance. Rob Pearson, CEO of Autospray Systems, shares insights into the cutting-edge advancements in drone technology and its implications for agriculture. Alongside Rob is Richard Binks, a Technical Consultant and IPM specialist, who delves into a small study exploring the viability of drones for spraying nematodes as a form of pest control.

Welcome to another episode of Agronomy Matters! In this edition, our host, Thomas Vaughan, Environment Manager for BASIS, takes listeners on a deep dive into the world of regenerative agriculture, shining a spotlight on the recently launched and crowd-funded film, "Six Inches of Soil." This insightful discussion features key figures from the film, including the producer, Claire Mackenzie, and one of its leading stars. "Six Inches of Soil" unfolds an inspiring narrative that showcases the efforts of British farmers, communities, and entrepreneurs at the forefront of transforming our food production and consumption. The film explores agroecology, an approach embracing regenerative farming techniques harmonising with nature, and emphasises local food systems with shorter supply chains. The extensive benefits range from understanding food sources to ensuring fair prices for farmers and the production of healthy food in a sustainable environment. This cinematic journey follows the inaugural year of regenerative farming for three new farmers—Anna Jackson, Adrienne Gordon, and Ben Thomas. As they work towards healing the soil, enhancing community provisions, and developing viable businesses, seasoned mentors and experts join them in this transformative experience. The film addresses complex issues, from the connections between food and health to questions of affordability, animal roles in farming, land ownership disparities, barriers faced by new entrant farmers, and even the ongoing debate on carbon offsetting in agriculture. Presented with hard-hitting facts, the film provides an authentic glimpse into agroecological farming, capturing the essence of a deep connection with the land, the changing seasons, and the production of food for local communities. Our discussion delves into how our guests got to where they are today and the challenges they faced along the way. Our first guest is Claire Mackenzie, the producer of "Six Inches of Soil," whose background spans TV production, charity fundraising, and event organising. Also joining the conversation is Ben Thomas, a livestock farmer from Cornwall, who carries out various techniques from mob grazing to agroforestry in order to improve soil health and biodiversity. Stay tuned for a thought-provoking conversation as the layers of "Six Inches of Soil" are uncovered, and the profound impact of regenerative agriculture on our food systems and environment is explored. Welcome to Agronomy Matters! www.basis-classroom.co.uk/courses