Across the county, recent events have highlighted the important role farmers are playing in shaping a safe, resilient and sustainable future for agriculture.
Young farmers from across the region gathered at CCM Skipton Auction Mart for a powerful evening centred on one vital message: every accident prevented is a life protected. The farm safety event brought together industry experts, support organisations and the next generation of farmers to address the real-life risks faced on farms every day. Practical advice from North Yorkshire Police, Carrs Billington, Lowe Maintenance and Craven Farm Vets encouraged attendees to stop, think and make safe decisions that could prevent serious injuries and fatalities.
Farming charities, including RABI, The Farming Community Network (FCN) and Field Nurse, were also on hand to highlight the importance of looking after mental wellbeing alongside physical safety. With strong attendance from local Young Farmers' Clubs, the evening generated valuable discussion and reinforced the shared responsibility of creating safer working environments across the industry.
Alongside efforts to support the future of farming through education and safety, farmers are also helping to shape the environmental future of the county and wider region. The launch of the West Yorkshire Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) brought together farmers, land managers, environmental organisations and local partners to explore how nature recovery can be delivered across farmed and rural landscapes.
Speakers from the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, Natural England and Yorkshire Wildlife Trust highlighted the vital role farmers and landowners will play in restoring habitats, improving biodiversity and creating more resilient landscapes. Attendees also saw a demonstration of the new Local Habitat Map, designed to help identify priorities and opportunities for nature recovery on the ground. The event emphasised the importance of partnership working and showcased how farmers can contribute to environmental improvements while supporting sustainable land management.
Keeping members connected and ensuring their voices are heard remains equally important. To support this, a new WhatsApp group has been launched for horticulture and potato members across the North. The group provides a direct route for members to share views, ask questions and raise issues with their regional representatives on the NFU National Horticulture and Potatoes Board, while also receiving updates from the national board.
If you would like to join the group, please contact Aarun or myself.