BASIS and LEAF (Linking Environment And Farming) are launching a new Integrated Farm Management (IFM) course, designed to provide farmers and advisers with the skills and knowledge to take a whole farm approach to more sustainable farming.

Rob Simpson, BASIS Managing Director comments, "The changing pace and demands on our food production systems require a more sustainable approach to farm management. Implementing IFM principles enables farmers to operate profitable businesses capable of both producing quality food and managing the environment sensitively.

"Working with LEAF we have built on the success of the BASIS/LEAF Integrated Crop Management (ICM) course and updated the syllabus to include new modules, which take account of aspects of water management, energy efficiency and waste management."

IFM provides a sound basis for the development of farm assurance schemes, in particular LEAF Marque. The course also plays an important role in developing the knowledge and skill of any adviser, agronomist or consultant, especially in the delivery of the Thematic Pesticide Strategy and Integrated Pest Management.

Caroline Drummond, Chief Executive of LEAF says, "We believe that informed management across the whole farm, focussing on attention to detail in all practices, will deliver more sustainable farming now, and in the future.

"Building on the Codes of Good Agricultural Practice, IFM is a practical and achievable approach for farmers. It delivers a food system that is economically viable, ecologically sound and socially just. Furthermore, it is a key option for government for the responsible use of pesticides in the UK and Europe."

The two day IFM course brings together the discussions and practical solutions for producers to take home and implement, ensuring productive, sustainable farming businesses in a global market.

The course is divided into 10 core modules, including:

• Introduction to IFM
• Crop management
• Water management and energy efficiency
• Pollution control and by-product management
• Animal husbandry
• Landscape and nature conservation
• Organisation, planning and management
• Indicators, reviews and performance measurement
• Food chain integration, quality, safety and farm assurance
• Community engagement

More details can be found on the BASIS website www.basis-reg.com.