The Soil Association is offering growers in the South West expert advice and training in organic production as part of its Organic Pathfinder Training Programme (TOPP).
Aimed at both current and prospective organic growers, the training involves talks and demonstrations from experts during a one-day course. Growers will also get a tour of an organic farm where issues will cover a range of topics including selecting varieties and pest and disease control.
Dairy farmers can also benefit from an equivalent course run by the Organic Milk Suppliers Cooperative. All courses are part-funded by Defra’s Vocational Training Scheme (VTS), part of its Rural Development Service.
Angela Wescott, events co-ordinator for the Food and Farming department of the Soil Association, said: “By mixing theory and practical elements, the training days provide farmers and growers with essential information on how to be successful in new and diversified enterprises. It is also a great opportunity for farmers to network and talk to other people in the industry, to exchange ideas and even to arrange to share resources with farmers in their locality.”
Steve Marston, project based schemes regional co-ordinator for the Rural Development Service in the South West, said: “The Rural Development Service is pleased to support training courses such as these, which are aimed at encouraging and assisting farmers to convert to organic farming. This transition can involve fundamental changes to farming practices and major challenges to the business, therefore expert training and advice is essential.”
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