Phil is farm manager at the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust’s 333-hectare Allerton Project at Loddington. The project researches the effects of different farming methods on wildlife and the environment.
He said:
“I am looking forward to working with the Voluntary Initiative sponsors, Defra, VI Champions and a wider group of stakeholders. I’m hoping to start that engagement in the new year. Our landscape management is entering an exciting and challenging period, where food production and environmental protection take on an increasingly important role in society.
“I’m looking for solutions to challenges, removing barriers that will encourage more collaboration and promote practises that ensure both food production and caring for the environment go hand in hand and prosper.”
Ruth Bailey, Head of the Agricultural Engineers Association and Chair of the Voluntary Initiative CIC Board representing the eight VI sponsor organisations, announced the appointment:
“Following an intense recruitment exercise involving a high-class field of candidates, Phil Jarvis has been appointed to be the new VI Chair.
“I am delighted to welcome Phil to the role of VI Chair and he brings a wealth of experience as a farmer and industry advocate.
“Currently working as Farm Manager of The Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust’s, Allerton Project and with 30 years’ experience in the industry, Phil brings a superb understanding of innovative practical farming and his leadership in the wider rural sector makes him well suited for this role.
“I would also like to thank the outgoing chair, Paul Temple, for his contribution to the work of the VI over the past three years. Paul has built on past VI successes to leave the organisation strategically placed to be the vanguard organisation. The organisation is very well-placed to promote Integrated Pest Management as the UK exits the EU transition period and works towards the aspirations of the 25-year Environment Plan.”
The Voluntary Initiative is an industry led programme. Through schemes, tools and messages it promotes the responsible use of pesticides through an IPM-based approach to sustainable agriculture.
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