Does my farm have a future? - with Helen Browning and Jake Freestone

In this second series of Farming Focus we're asking the question 'does my farm have a future?' We're going to reflect on what lies ahead and on some of the exciting solutions being put forward. 

For the opening episode host Peter Green is joined by Helen Browning, a Wiltshire farmer who is also CEO of the Soil Association, and Jake Freestone who manages Overbury Farms in Worcestershire. 

Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. 

For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.uk

For our podcast disclaimer click here. 

Timestamps

00:01 Cornish Mutual jingle

00:15 Peter Green introduces the episode. 

01:53 'Peter's Future Farm in 60 Seconds'

03:20 Cornish Mutual jingle.

03:28 Peter welcomes Helen and Jake to the podcast.

03:40 Helen introduces her farm.

04:20 Jake introduces Overbury Enterprises.

05:48 What changes is Jake anticipating at Overbury?

06:50 How prepared is UK farming for the future?

08:05 What do farmers need to do to thrive in the future? - Jake offers his thoughts.

10:54 UK food policy - how do farmers balance production and the environment? Helen offers her thoughts.

12:35 Will there be particular types of farm that will struggle? Helen doesn't think so but thinks that it is more about the farmer than the farm.

13:35 Jake on 'survival of the fittest'

14:23 Cornish Mutual jingle

14:32 What are the opportunities for farmers in the south west?

15:42 How might the profile of the agricultural work force change?

17:02 Investment in tech.

18:53 Will small farms benefit from tech and innovation going forwards?

19:57 What is Jake doing now to help his farm thrive going forwards?

20:38 What is Helen doing to help her farm thrive in future?

21:30 Showstoppers - 3 key points to take away. 

23:10 What skill or attribute will farmers need in future - in 3 words.

23:50 Peter concludes the episode.