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Dyson Farming Research provides farmer-led innovation for the potato sector


Dyson Farming Research provides boost for farmers and the environment

Dyson Farming Research is the lead partner in a new project that will improve farm sustainability and profitability by developing an understanding of how potatoes can be grown in a more environmentally friendly manner. 

Transformative Reduced Input in Potatoes (TRIP) is a 36-month research programme to develop cost-effective regenerative farming methods for the potato sector. The project is a series of connected trials which will connect R&D for: 

  • Innovative plant nutrition approaches
  • Reduced and no-tillage methods
  • Using novel low-input potato cultivars with a longer natural dormancy level
  • Developing new integrated pest management methods 

The Dyson Farming Research team will work with the project partners to provide research that will boost confidence when aiming to lower the use of chemical inputs.

TRIP will help the potato sector in its journey towards Net Zero by demonstrating how using regenerative methods for potato growing can potentially reduce GHG emissions and build soil organic matter and its carbon sequestration. The research outcomes will provide other potato growers with substantial savings in nitrogen fertilisers, fuel and storage.

 

Funded by Innovate UK, TRIP is a partnership led by Dyson Farming with partners The James Hutton Institute, Bangor University, Light Science Technologies, Emerald Research, SDF Agriculture, Colwith Farm Potatoes, FG Pryor & Son and CP Richards & Son.

Richard Meredith, Head of Dyson Farming Research, said, “A more regenerative approach to potato production will help us to maintain the efforts we take to improve our soils while also potentially reducing our production costs. We’re delighted to be working in this farmer-led partnership to help deliver a more sustainable potato sector.”

The results of this project will be shared with Dyson Farming Research members at upcoming events. For more information on memberships and to join, contact Richard Meredith at Richard.meredith@dysonfarming.com or 07717 493015.

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The Estate Office,
Cyclone Way, Nocton,
Lincoln LN4 2GR

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Dyson Farming at The Lincolnshire Show 2023

The Lincolnshire Show 2023

The Lincolnshire Show celebrated its 138th year last week, and we were proud to be there yet again.

This year, the Dyson Farming stand was bigger and better than ever. Having relocated to the Countryside Area, we expanded our offering at the show with a bigger tent, outdoor seating, and ride-on tractors to keep the little ones happy, providing a relaxed and welcoming feel overall.

Inside, our very own bar, crafted by our in-house joinery team, played a pivotal role in drawing people in. From free strawberries, grown in our Carrington glasshouse, to pea and mint ice cream, our samples were well received. Visitors were also welcome to use our outdoor space for picnics and respite from the sun on the glorious two days.

Our experts were on hand across both days to answer questions, listen to feedback and meet potential collaborators. Wednesday saw a drinks reception hosted by the executive team, helping give guests an insight into Dyson Farming and where we are headed, which proved extremely popular.

The Schools’ Challenge

Each year The Lincolnshire Show welcomes around 6,000 schoolchildren from across the county. Many schools take part in the Schools’ Challenge; something we were proud to sponsor for another year. The challenge gives children the opportunity to delve into the world of agriculture, food production, environment, and conservation, challenging their thinking to understand the importance of the issues we face and how their ideas and decisions could shape the future.

Children of all ages are invited to enter, with everything from nurseries to secondary schools taking part.

Dr Tom Storr, Research Agronomist at Dyson Farming, worked with Scampton Church of England Primary School, helping them understand the importance of soil structure and protecting the nutrients within, forming a key theme at their stand.

The 138th year

Organised by the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society, the show is in its 138th year. With an agricultural focus, the show has expanded to attract a wider audience, offering everything from livestock to aviation and horticulture to equine events and plenty of shopping.

Proceeds from the show are used to support the LAS’s educational work, which engages over 13,000 local children each year, educating them about farming, food, and the countryside.

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Cyclone Way, Nocton,
Lincoln LN4 2GR

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The Lincolnshire Show 2023

Come and find us at
The Lincolnshire Show 2023

The Lincolnshire Show takes place this week. This year our stand is bigger and better.

Our new location in the Countryside Area will mean that you can stop by for a chat, relax with some light refreshments and sample our showstopping strawberries.

Children will be able to learn how we produce energy from crops and whizz around on our mini electric tractors, while adults can plan their next rural retreat at one of our secluded locations. The recruitment team will be available if you’d like to know more about our latest vacancies or discuss potential future opportunities.

Our experts will be on hand for a chat about all things Dyson Farming – from food, energy, environment and research to leisure and recruitment. We’re also hosting a series of scheduled talks to give you an insight into different areas of the business. Talks are taking place on both days, at the times below:

10.00

Environment with Ian Willoughby

11.30

Strawberries, LEDs and energy generation with Angel Angelov and Lucie Redwood

13.30

Technology with Ed Ford

15.00

Soils and regenerative agriculture with Dr Tom Storr

We’re delighted to be sponsoring the Schools Challenge again this year, designed to link food, farming, community, environment, and sustainability to the National Curriculum. Head to the EXO Centre to find out what ideas this year’s schools have developed.

📆 21–22 June 2023
🕘 8.00 am – 6.00 pm
📍CS-12, Countryside Area

 

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The Estate Office,
Cyclone Way, Nocton,
Lincoln LN4 2GR

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Dyson Farming Research provides boost for farmers and the environment


Dyson Farming Research provides boost for farmers and the environment

Dyson Farming Research is a key partner in a new project that will improve farm sustainability and profitability by helping wheat farmers to use nitrogen judiciously and in an environmentally-friendly manner. 

 

From nitrogen use efficiency to farm profitability, the project called ‘The Framework for Improving Nitrogen Efficiency’ (FINE) will make the use of nitrogen as efficient as possible for farms by equipping farmers with a management system which will use data from in-field sensors and weather stations to provide advice on the most optimal application of nitrogen. 

 

The platform will lead to significant improvements in nitrogen and nutrient management, but also present the opportunity to secure secondary income streams for farms, facilitate farm integration into environmental land management schemes and enhance food security by reducing dependency on nitrogen input costs.  

 

The Dyson Farming Research team will work with the project partners to provide affordable technology for in-field measurements, validating it within field experiments and assuring knowledge exchange with the stakeholders. As nitrogen use and emissions are reduced, the partnership will explore new income opportunities for farmers on the back of reduced carbon emissions. The aim is to make nitrogen use measurements a new benchmark for farmers to utilise nitrogen effectively to provide more profit whilst improving sustainability in farming.  

 

Nitrogen use efficiency is a way of understanding the relationships between the total nitrogen input compared to the nitrogen output and how this is translated to grain yield and quality. It is an important trait in crop breeding programs, which aims to improve crop yield while reducing input costs, such as fertilisers, and at the same time keeping nitrogen out of the environment. Reducing fertiliser inputs would lead to fewer greenhouse gas emissions and less nitrate leaching into the groundwater and surface water. 

 

The NUE-Profits project, funded by Innovate UK, is a partnership led by AgAnalyst, with partners Agreed Earth, Assimila, Dales Land Net, European Food and Farming Partnerships (EFFP), Hill Court Farm Research, Navigate Eco Solutions, N Blacker & Sons, University of Lincoln and Velcourt. 

 

The outcomes of this project will be shared with all Dyson Farming Research members. For more information on how to become a member, contact Richard Meredith at Richard.meredith@dysonfarming.com or 07717493015.

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The Estate Office,
Cyclone Way, Nocton,
Lincoln LN4 2GR

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FULLY BOOKED: LEAF Open Farm Sunday 2023


FULLY BOOKED: LEAF Open Farm Sunday 2023

Open Farm Sunday 2023 at Dyson Farming is now fully booked. Please keep an eye on our social media channels for information about any last-minute availability.

We’re welcoming you to Nocton Farm for LEAF Open Farm Sunday 2023 for a family day of exploring, tours and relaxation.

This year, we’re inviting you to discover more about the environmental work we do across the farm. From the Dunston Beck restoration project to nesting bird boxes and wildflower margins, see how we work in harmony with the wildlife across the farm every day. Join Ian Willoughby, our Environmental Coordinator, on a tractor and trailer tour around the farm to discover what we do.

We’re also opening the gates of Nocton Wood, with two self-guided walks (3km and 5km) to enjoy through the protected woodland. Discover more about the species that grow there and the wildlife that calls the wood home. Pick up an activity pack from The Hive to keep your little ones engaged, from collecting flora to creating detailed tree rubbings.

Back at The Hive, there’s plenty to keep you busy. Whether you’re tasting the Dyson Farming strawberries which are grown at our glasshouse in Carrington, or relaxing to the music on, what we hope will be, a glorious summer’s day.

Food and drink will also be on offer, including gourmet toasted sandwiches from Dancing Dungarees and something to drink from Ferry Ales Brewery. Complimentary tea and coffee will also be available throughout the day.

Our recruitment team will also be on hand to talk to anyone interested in joining Dyson Farming.

Secure your spot by clicking below. Spaces are limited for the guided tours – booking is essential.

📆 11 June 2023
🕘 10 am – 4 pm
💷 Free

📍 The Hive, LN4 2AY

 
 
 

LEAF Open Farm Sunday is a free event.

You can book up to 5 tickets as part of the checkout process.

Each tour will last approximately 1 hour.

The self-guided walks follows farm tracks that are uneven in places. The route is suitable for off-road pushchairs and motorised mobility scooters.

Yes – we are providing complimentary strawberries, tea and coffee throughout the day. There will also be a bar and gourmet toasties on offer if you are looking for something more.

Yes – there will be toilets located at The Hive.

Please note: There are no toilets on the self-guided walk or along the route of the environmental tour.

Yes – there is ample parking close to The Hive. Our team will be on hand to direct you during the day.

Please come dressed appropriately for the weather on the day of the event. The self-guided walk follows farm tracks that may be muddy following wet weather. Sturdy footwear is essential.

The self-guided walks are ideal for bringing your dog along. Dogs must be kept on leads at all times during your visit.

The tours are very popular and are likely to be fully booked, so there may not be space for dogs on the trailer.

Please keep an eye on our social media channels where you will find any information about changes to the event and cancellations.

We only open the wood to visitors at times when we will cause minimal disturbance to wildlife and our ongoing woodland management schemes.

Follow our social media channels to hear about future opportunities to explore this special place.

We’ll be taking photos and video throughout the day to use across our social channels and in marketing materials.

If you do not wish to be included, please speak to a member of our team.

If you have any more questions, please get in touch by emailing enquiries@dysonfarming.com

Head Office

The Estate Office,
Cyclone Way, Nocton,
Lincoln LN4 2GR

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EVENT: Maximising the benefits of cover crops


Maximising the benefits of cover crops event

Over the past winter, Dyson Farming have trialled a range of cover crop species together with Anglian Water and Boston Seeds.

We’re inviting all farmers, growers, agronomists, and industry representatives to join us on Tuesday 30th May 2023. Here you’ll learn from Dr Tom Storr (Dyson Farming) about the results of our cover crop trials which included large-scale plots covering tilled and no-till land. The plots included five cereals, four clovers, four vetches, four mixtures, three mustards and three radishes.

Kate Smith (ADAS) will also lead a practical session looking at the pros and cons of using companion crops in the rotation, balancing the management, costs, and wider environmental aspects to ensure success.

Date: Tuesday 30 May 2023

Timings: 10.00 am start with refreshments available from 9.30 am. The event will end at 12:30 pm.

Venue: The Hive, Wasp’s Nest, Nocton Fen Lane, Nocton, Lincolnshire, LN4 2AY

Registration: book here

Attending this event will assist with:

  • Choosing cover crop mixes for your specific soil crop, and rotational needs.
  • Understanding establishment, management, and end-of-life strategy for maximum benefits.
  • Maximising return on investment by using this evidence-based research and trial results.
  • Managing cover crops by over-winter sheep grazing.
  • Catch/companion crop management methods.

To book a space please follow this link

For more information about this event please contact Richard Meredith on: richard.meredith@dysonfarming.com or 07717 493015

Head Office

The Estate Office,
Cyclone Way, Nocton,
Lincoln LN4 2GR

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Dyson Farming Leisure: Fishing at Stubton Farm

Dyson Farming Leisure: Fishing at Stubton Farm

Register for a Stubton Ponds membership by visiting https://stubtonfarm.clubmate.co.uk/register.

For more information about our ponds, email us at leisure@dysonfarming.com.

Our fishing ponds at Stubton Farm are opening on 1 May 2023, and memberships are on sale now.

With five ponds spread across the farm, Stubton Ponds are ideal for experienced anglers and those still new to the sport. Varying in size and location, our ponds each offer something different, from sheltered pegs to open, field-side spots.

Become a member

Memberships are on sale now with a special early bird discount for members who join before we launch.

Memberships include:

  • Exclusive, unlimited access, club members only (no day passes)
  • A dedicated booking app
  • Adjacent peg parking at some locations
  • A choice of five well-stocked ponds
  • Membership pack and baseball hat

Location

Postcode: NG23 5DA

Five ponds near the village of Stubton, a 15-minute drive from Newark-on-Trent.

For more information and to join, email leisure@dysonfarming.com.

FAQs

What are the ponds stocked with?

Our ponds are mixed fisheries, including carp, roach, rudd, bream, crucian carp, tench, gudgeon and perch. We have ponds that are predominantly carp and predominantly silver fish. On average, there are 1000lb+ of fish per acre.

How big are the ponds?

We have five ponds in total, including:

– 2 x 0.5-acre ponds, averaging 4-7’ in depth

– 1 x 1.2-acre pond, averaging 3-6’ in depth. This pond features an island

– 1 x 1.2-acre pond, averaging 3-7’ in depth

– 1 x 1-acre pond, averaging 3-6’ in depth

How many pegs are there?

There are 100 pegs across our five ponds.

Is there a limit on the number of rods per member?

Members must have their own rod licence and are allowed to fish with two rods at any one time.

How long will my membership last?

Memberships are annual, running from May – April each year.

Do the ponds close during fish spawning?

No, our ponds will remain open throughout times of spawning.

How do we care for the fish in our ponds?

We work closely with a fishery management consultancy.

All ponds feature a dipping station.

Can you retain the fish caught from our ponds?

No fish above 2lb to be kept in a keep net, up to a maximum of 50lb. Large carp can be kept in carp sacks for weighing and photograph purposes only. Unhooking mats must be used at all times.

No keepnets to be used in hot weather.

Are the ponds gated?

Our ponds can only be accessed with a unique code for each gate. Only members are allowed to fish with us.

Are day tickets available to fish our ponds?

No day tickets are available – only members are permitted to fish with us.

Is there a time limit per session?

Members are given unlimited access to the ponds between dawn and dusk all year round.

Will the ponds be open for night fishing?

No night fishing is permitted at Stubton Ponds.

Is parking available at each of the ponds?

Parking is available at all ponds. Peg-adjacent parking is only available in some locations at two of the ponds.

Are there any bait restrictions?

Anglers must use barbless hooks. The following baits cannot be used:

– Peanuts

– Cat food

Head Office

The Estate Office,
Cyclone Way, Nocton,
Lincoln LN4 2GR

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Easter egg hunt 2023

Easter egg hunt 2023

The Easter Bunny has a hole in his bag. He’s dropped nine eggs across our Nocton Estate, and we need your help to find them.

Collect the clues to find out our bunny’s name and when you’ve cracked the answer, hand your sheet in at The Estate Office to receive an Easter surprise.

The perfect activity for your Easter break, the Easter egg hunt is open from Monday 3 to Thursday 6 April, 10 am – 4 pm. Parking is available free of charge at Nocton Cricket Club, The Bridleway, LN4 2FH.

You can download your activity sheet here.

Please note: This is a self-guided event, starting at Nocton Cricket Club and ending at The Estate Office.

Head Office

The Estate Office,
Cyclone Way, Nocton,
Lincoln LN4 2GR

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Agroforestry at Little Steeping


Agroforestry at Little Steeping

The agroforestry scheme at Little Steeping continues to evolve and will benefit food crops, our soil and wildlife in the area.

This scheme forms part of our overall countryside stewardship initiative and sits alongside grass and wildflower margins, legume pollinator mixes, and wild bird covers.

The land at Little Steeping had not previously benefitted from stewardship, which has enabled us to identify a baseline on which future improvements can be measured. This baseline also allows an effective comparison to other areas of the farm, which have been under stewardship for many years.

As part of this agroforestry initiative, 622 apple trees have been planted within the conventionally cropped area. The apple trees include cider, eating and cooking varieties, giving us wider opportunities in the future. Around the outside, 300 elderflower trees have been planted to help protect the site while also providing a flower-rich nectar resource for insects. The flowers can also be harvested for cordial.

The site at Little Steeping is perfect for this scheme thanks to the north-south running square fields. This means that the cereal crops will not be subject to shade from the trees, therefore not inhibiting yields. The added benefits for invertebrates will, in turn, provide pollination and natural pest control services to the crop.

This 110-ha scheme is monitored for the presence and abundance of key species, giving us the ability to understand the value of environmental features and food production.

Head Office

The Estate Office,
Cyclone Way, Nocton,
Lincoln LN4 2GR

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Cover crop open day


Cover crop open day

Dyson Farming are trialling a range of cover crop species together with Anglian Water and Boston Seeds. Cover crops benefit soils by protecting them from excess water, ice and wind and also maintain nitrogen levels and other nutrients to benefit the next crop.

We’re inviting farmers, growers, agronomists and industry representatives to join us for a cover crop open day on Tuesday 22 November. Here you’ll learn about our trials and how cover crops can benefit your land through interactive and practical plot tours. We are offering two tours throughout the morning, which you can book below.

Our large-scale plots cover tilled and no-till land and were all sown on 8 September. They include:

– Five different cereals

– Four clovers

– Four vetches

– Four mixtures

– Three mustards

– Three radishes

We’ll discuss the effect they have on soil structure, nutrient capture and release, water quality, and ease of establishment for the next crop.

 

Date: 22 November 2022

Venue: Dovecote Hall Farm, Westville, Boston, Lincolnshire, LN4 4YH 

What3words location: ///asked.somebody.delved

 

Booking and tour times: 

Tour 1 at 8:30 am follow this link to book a space

Tour 2 at 10:30 am follow this link to book a space

 

Please note that the trials field will be signposted from Dovecote Hall Farm. Appropriate outdoor clothing and footwear are advised.

Head Office

The Estate Office,
Cyclone Way, Nocton,
Lincoln LN4 2GR

We would love to
hear from you