A new online guide has been created for young farmers to help with their career and business planning during an uncertain period of agricultural transition.

The online guide includes information about conservation agriculture, the role of integrated pest management (IPM) and agroforestry as well as links to further resources.

Developed by The National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs (NFYFC) in partnership with the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT), the online Fit for Business Guide is one component of a three-part Building Skills project, funded by Defra, which also includes bespoke training for Young Farmers’ Clubs (YFCs).

The guide builds on NFYFC’s work with the GWCT to bring information and advice on integrated conservation farming practices at the Allerton Project Farm to young farmers, next generation land managers and new entrants.

GWCT’s Allerton Project team researches the effects of different farming methods on wildlife and the environment and identifies management that delivers multiple benefits for sustainable food production as well as environmental good.

This work covers natural capital accounting, agri-environment schemes and regenerative farming systems.

Joe Stanley, GWCT’s Head of Training and Partnerships said: “With a training offer to share good practice and a farm to demonstrate the commercial benefits, NFYFC and GWCT are pleased to collaborate again on a project to help share news, offer training and signpost for further information during this time of agricultural transition.

"We hope this guide helps young farmers identify the skills they may need, information to help progress their career or land management plans and provide training options.”

Members of the YFC AGRI group met in June at the Allerton Project Farm to discuss the necessary skills needed for emerging policies, fledgling businesses and new entrant opportunities.

Members of the group made the most of sharing their farming and land management experience whilst considering future business viability and skills needed.

In a discussion that explored ways to help new entrants and next generation farmers deliver sustainability, the group agreed that clear food labelling showing environmental impact will be part of the necessary marketing tools for consumer awareness.

They also agreed there was a need for a practical, realistic approach to the effects of seismic policy change and trade deals.

The online guide is available from the NFYFC website, nfyfc.org.uk/fitforfuture.