Yesterday saw a first for the Cotswolds – an entire conference devoted to regenerative agriculture, exploring regenerative principles, practice, mindset, and routes to market.
Over 150 guests attended, and heard from a wide range of speakers with an impressive depth of experience in the subject. From farmers who have been using regenerative techniques for over 17 years, to those just starting out, to consultants and related experts. The day was a fantastic opportunity to share knowledge, tackle barriers, and discuss experience.
Regenerative agriculture can build soil health, enhance biodiversity, and improve water and nutrient cycling. System change can lead to more resilience, profit, and nutrient dense food. The transition to a regenerative farming future is a complex journey, and it can be intimidating and even isolating to those just starting out. This conference aimed to help, with a particular focus on the Cotswolds context. The conference was an opportunity for farmers to gather together, ask questions, and discuss the subject in more detail.
Attendees heard from those who are already using regenerative techniques, and listened while they shared their successes and less successful moments. The event was organised by farmers and advisers involved in the Regenerative Agriculture Accelerator Programme (RAAP) in the Cotswolds to mark the end of the first 12 months of this unique knowledge exchange programme. The programme and this conference were funded by a Farming in Protected Landscapes (FiPL) grant from Cotswold National Landscape (CNL) plus match funding from Regenerate Outcomes and other sector partners.
The aim of the conference was to help attendees develop the motivation, knowledge, and confidence required to successfully put the key principles of regenerative agriculture into practice. When asked by a member of the audience “is it worth it?”, the speakers enthusiastically responded with “yes, 100%!”. They described how taking a regenerative approach can feel more challenging, but also how it’s more creative, interesting, and beneficial in a range of ways.
We look forward to continuing to work in partnership with others to develop this work during 2025 and beyond.
