The invitation for the Beds & Hunts BBQ was sent out just before the government’s emergency alert advising against BBQs; rain was bound to follow! As I write this we have more rain and things are greening up – hopefully you all have just the right amount to progress with drilling.
The BBQ was kindly hosted by Hazel & Tom Church and Martin Towler at Acorn Farm, Thurleigh. Over 40 members enjoyed a post harvest catch up together with a bit of thought provoking discussion facilitated by Liz Genever (sponsored by Anglian Water). It was also good to see Kim Hemmings of Anglian Water and Katrina Thompson from AHDB supporting the event.
As I’ve mentioned previously, Bedfordshire Fire Service are very keen to work with members to build a picture of on farm water storage across the county that they could potentially have access to in the case of emergency. This is an entirely voluntary system and has been working well with farmers in Hertfordshire. You control access to your water and, if required, the fire service will enable you to refill your bowser from the mains hydrant. If having enough water at a fire helps them get on top of it quicker they will then be available to get to the next fire sooner – none of us know when it may be us that needs them. If you have further queries on this please get in touch with me or Jamie Clarke of Beds Fire Service [email protected]. To register your location please complete this form. Location of rainwater harvesting tanks or other fixed/mobile bulk water storage – Fill in form
Members of the County Committee were at Bedford Morrisons on Back British Farming Day discussing British produce and food security with shoppers.
The Blue Tongue outbreak continues to grow and vaccination is the best form of defence. This map shows suspected cases are now very local and there are confirmed cases in both Northamptonshire and Norfolk Bluetongue Cases and Zones Please do contact your vet to order the vaccine if you haven’t already done so.