Catherine Frayne is a policy lead in Defra's Growth, Organics, Alcohol and Trade team, responsible for developing and delivering policies that support England's organic sector.
She works with industry, regulators and government colleagues to help create the conditions for sustainable growth in organic farming and food production.
Published today, the Organic Action Plan for England (OAPE) sets out steps to support the growth of the domestic organic sector and help more English farmers and businesses meet growing consumer demand.
22 October How ADOPT funding can support your farm business, 11am to 12:30pm.
Each month, we bring together the latest policy updates, funding opportunities, consultations, research and statistics, helping you stay informed about the issues that matter to you.
15 October Soil Association Organic Trade Conference at the Barbican Centre, London.
30 October Borderway Agri Expo, Borderway, Rosehill, Carlisle.
Find a list of the other shows and events we’re attending.
The Environment Agency is giving farmers greater flexibility by letting existing abstraction licence holders start refilling their water storage reservoirs early, a month ahead of usual schedule. This temporary change runs from 1 October to 31 October.
We recognise the difficulty in getting a long duration abstraction licence and the blocker this presents to long-term investment in sustainable abstraction practices.
As part of the package announced on 1 October to support farmers to access water, the Environment Agency have made it easier for those who don’t currently have an abstraction license to apply for licences that better support long-term investment.
Full details of the changes and information on how to be compliant can be found on the Environment Agency blog.
The Farming Advice Service (FAS) provides free, confidential advice to farmers and advisers.
Catchment Sensitive Farming (CSF) helps farmers in England protect water, air and soil. CSF advisers can provide advice on best practices and specific actions that will benefit your farm business and the environment.
We’ve compiled a list of organisations offering wellbeing support to those in the farming community.
If you are ordering fertiliser for the coming season, check that it can be stored safely and securely before delivery. The action you need to take depends on the type and quantity of fertiliser.
Follow the relevant guidance to protect people, prevent contamination or deterioration, and meet the rules for storing ammonium nitrate and other substances.
Read the AIC’s guide to storing, handling & transporting ammonium nitrate and the HSE’s steps to take.
