The future of food security

Dear Reader

It has been estimated that we can expect a 50% increase in food demand by 2030 and that by 2050 the earth will have to feed approximately 9 billion people.  Food production is therefore a primary focus for the farming community.  Agronomists are at the forefront of ensuring our food is produced sustainably, in the most economical way possible. 

In this issue of growing skills we look at how agronomists are working to build a lasting legacy for future generations.  We hope you find this month's newsletter useful, if you know of anyone else that may benefit from receiving this information simply click on the button above to forward it to them.

Best wishes,

James


Agronomy - the future of intelligent and sustainable food production

The Association of Independent Crop Consultants (AICC) recently claimed 2011 to be the year in which the arable industry must work together to ensure that UK agriculture is in control of its own destiny.

The challenges of food security, climate change, economic downturn, and price volatility as well as the desire to preserve our natural resources and offer stability to farmers means that all sectors of the industry must pull together to develop an intelligent, sustainable and inclusive growth strategy.  It is for these reasons that we are due to see a major reform to Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) by 2013. 

Agronomists are at the forefront of this change.  With responsibility for over 3 million acres of UK arable land and a unique partnership with farmers/growers, they are well placed to ensure that we produce food as efficiently as possible from even the smallest area of land.  Skills such as soil and water preservation; crop rotation; insect and pest control; plant breeding; and the promotion of biodiversity are just some of the skills agronomists bring in to play to ensure we maintain the fine balance between increased agricultural output with protection and preservation of our landscapes and ecosystems.

Agronomy as a career

Due to the continued growth of the population and the expanding need for the study of food crops the outlook for agronomy and agronomists is excellent.  With its many and varied areas of specialism such as plant genetics and physiology, meteorology and soil science it is a truly fantastic career opportunity.  However, it is no longer qualification for life and it is important to keep abreast of the latest developments and obtain recertification from a recognised body such as BASIS.

Here at the Rural Skills Centre we offer a wide range of courses including:

  • BASIS Certificate in Crop Protection: aimed at field sales or technical staff and advisers working in the crop protection industry, it is a prerequisite for those who wish to give advice on the use of Agrochemicals commercially.  It is also of benefit to farmers and managers of large-scale arable enterprises.
  • BASIS Plant Protection Award: the qualification required by the Crop Protection Association of its members' staff who regularly give advice. It's also the next step for any agronomist who wishes to demonstrate an advanced level of knowledge of Crop Protection Technology.
  • BASIS Soil and Water: designed for a variety of participants such as: advisers, farmers and farm managers to enable them to improve their skills, knowledge and understanding of soil and water management.
  • BASIS Certificate in Conservation Management: a unique course designed for those advising on cross-compliance, environmental management, conservation and stewardship. Candidates to achieve a recognised professional qualification in farmland conservation.
  • Fertiliser Advisors Certification and Training Scheme( FACTS): Designed to achieve a high technical standard, this intensive 5 day course is essential for agronomists, consultants, sales representatives and farm managers involved in fertiliser application, planning and advice.
  • The full range of Pesticide Application Courses: including safe use of pesticides, ground crop spraying, granule application, hand held application and sprayer operation.
  • LANTRA Pest Control Assessments


 


News

Please find below details of courses with availability for August:-

NPTC CS38: Tree Climbing & Aerial Rescue Monday 22nd August to Friday 26th August

Dry Stone Walling: Introduction Saturday 20th August

Pesticides PA6A: Hand Held Applicator Wednesday 3rd August

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