BBRO and Smiths Gore have teamed up to provide sugar beet growers with the opportunity to discuss the issues affecting soil management with industry experts and each other with a view to improving the yield of sugar beet and other crops.

Over the summer BBRO and Smiths Gore have initiated a programme of intensive training for all British Sugar’s Area Managers.  This training has seen them review the basic soil management issues, identify the key parameters affecting soil structure, and explore solutions to better soil management.

During the next few months, Area Managers will facilitate local discussion groups consisting of sugar beet growers. The final topics for discussion and the format of the discussion groups will be decided by group members and the overall aim is to provide sessions led by leading industry speakers, visits to look at issues such as organic matter, precision farming and cultivation techniques.  It is expected that each group will meet four times over the winter with initial events taking place during September and October.

Colm McKay Agriculture Director, BSUK said “British Sugar wholeheartedly supports the work of BBRO and Smiths Gore in developing this initiative.  I see this as a great opportunity for sugar beet growers and British Sugar staff to learn from each other, as well as from industry specialists.   I am very excited about it, as I know our team of Area Managers are, and I am confident the growers involved will also view the initiative very positively.”

Colin MacEwan of BBRO said “BBRO believes that by working directly with industry experts and farmers in small discussion groups that farmers are able to engage more effectively with technological developments across the beet crop. Smiths Gore has the experience in developing and implementing knowledge exchange programmes across the agricultural supply chain, and this experience has ensured that the discussions groups are ready to start during this month.”

Ruth Digby, NFU Chief Sugar Adviser said "The NFU is very pleased to see such a positive programme of support from BBRO and Smiths Gore. By combining the knowledge of farmers growing the crop coupled with the external expertise this programme will provide a welcome contribution to the knowledge and tools on how to improve soil management for all farmers who engage with the discussion groups."

Taking part in the discussion groups is easy - just contact your Area Manager who will explain more about the group they are setting up. If you are unsure who your local contact is please contact BBRO by phone on 0330 33 555 33 or e-mail colin.walters@bbro.co.uk.