What price trees?

The value of trees features at least twice in the news this week. Two men accused of felling the tree at Sycamore Gap next to Hadrian's Wall have been referred to the crown court for a full trial and are next due to appear at Newcastle Crown Court on 12 June (BBC News Report). More … Continue reading What price trees?

New Tenant Farming Commissioner

The Prime Minister and Defra announced on Tuesday (14.5.2024) that a new Tenant Farming Commissioner will be appointed in the autumn. Much may change between now and then but the appointment of Baroness Kate Rock to the Defra board for a term of three years means this promise will not quietly rust in the nettles. … Continue reading New Tenant Farming Commissioner

Supermarkets run out of food again

Last year it was eggs. Now it is fresh veg, salad and tomatoes. Problems in Morocco and Southern Spain are some of the reasons given. The NFU (National Farmers' Union) at its conference this week highlights the reduction of home production in the face of high energy and feed costs. The government offers the reassurance … Continue reading Supermarkets run out of food again

Blizzard of environmental land management news

Defra has made numerous announcements over the last week or so. We have an update on the 25 year Environment Plan. More important for rural land managers we also have an announcement on stacking and bundling various environmental services which can be offered from the same piece of land. This is a really important announcement … Continue reading Blizzard of environmental land management news