Taking the message further than “best practice” and “safe stewardship” of pesticide use, the VI is moving to a message of integrated pest and crop management to drive change across the industry, working towards the visions encapsulated in the 25 year Environment Plan.
The VI message of an IPM-based approach to sustainable farming requires close interaction with on-farm decision makers, and would involve delivering VI presentations and leading active dialogue to challenge current practice and drive through a commitment to farming in an environmentally sustainable way.
The VI is therefore looking for a team of regional “Champions”, farmers/advisors who are held in high esteem within the industry for advocating forward-thinking farming practices with an excellent knowledge of the problems affecting the UK farming industry. A good understanding of VI core values with regard safe and responsible use of pesticides will be key.
The VI will provide training in “IPM 2.0”, media training and materials for engagement to provide VI support for work with various farming groups (NFU, NFUS, UFU and other VI sponsors/stakeholders) and the water companies. Engagement will be on an ad hoc basis, but probably not more than one engagement every 2-3 months. The VI will reward Champions with a day rate of £250 plus appropriate travel/subsistence expenses.
If you feel you have the necessary experience and drive to help the VI drive through change, email your CV and a covering letter to the VI Operations Director, Neal Evans, at bmVhbEB2b2x1bnRhcnlpbml0aWF0aXZlLm9yZy51aw== - the closing date for applications is Friday 31 May 2019.