The Farmers’ Union of Wales Gwent and Glamorgan team enjoyed a successful day at Usk show, putting farming matters discussions and the need for thriving, sustainable, family farms in Wales at the forefront of conversation with politicians.
The team discussed the need for improved food education and awareness of farming practises at school age, the barriers facing farmers in playing their part when it comes to reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change whilst not undermining food production, as well the new schemes the agricultural industry is engaging with and the problems associated with them.
FUW Gwent and Glamorgan county executive officer Sharon Pritchard said: “There are many barriers facing our farming families at the moment and if not addressed properly, will hinder the success of our food producing farming families here in Wales.
“Whilst we have no problem with appropriate tree planting targets, it is paramount that those targets don’t undermine our food security and remove productive farmland from our use. When it comes to storing carbon, there are many other options available to us.”
Members also highlighted the vital role that common and poor, low grade land play, as it is essential for grazing livestock and that those habitats are vital to farming businesses.
Addressing the issue of renewable energy production and the need for that to be balanced against food production, FUW President Ian Rickman said:
“Farms across Wales want to play their part in producing renewable energy, whilst still producing sustainable, nutritious food. We will continue to work with the Welsh Government to find solutions to those problems, that allow farmers to do both in a balanced way.”
Union officials further highlighted the complexities of the Agri Pollution regulations workbook.
“Members are trying to comply and do the right thing, but those workbooks are complex and farmers are struggling mentally with what is being asked of them. The stress and anxiety caused by those new regulations is clearly visible and we urge the Welsh Government to make cost-free, easily accessible help available to the industry,” added Sharon Pritchard.