Farmers, landowners, advisors, researchers and Landmatch England gathered in Exeter last week for a full day of learning, sharing ideas and networking at the 4th Rootstock conference organised by the Devon County Agricultural Association.

Rootstock is a one-day, forward-looking conference for farmers in the South West to discuss new approaches and how farmers can build profitable, resilient businesses in tune with nature. Sessions are based around contextualised science, bringing expert scientists and practical farmers together; all the while exploring current farming trends and latest developments.

Travelling up on Thursday morning, the widespread flooding on the landscape near Exeter was a sorry sight, and the weather was a feature of the chat on arrival between delegates. According to the Met Office, 518.7mm of rain has fallen in Devon so far this winter, which is 131 per cent of the seasonal average. It was timely to hear from Professor Pete Falloon, Science Lead of Food Security at the Met Office, in the opening session, who spoke of the risks and opportunities for farming in a changing climate. Professor Falloon also spoke of the need for farmers, government and scientists to work together to support the adoption and implementation of new solutions in farming practice.

In the same session, Martin Lines, who leads the Nature Friendly Farming Network, spoke of the importance of championing regenerative farming with a whole farm approach – getting nature on Treasury balance sheets and demonstrating the sector’s value to society and environmental recovery. Martin spoke of the financial difficulties in farming as a result of volatile costs and instability in supply chains and markets, welcoming the recently published Farm Profitability Review by Minette Batters, echoing calls to improve access to affordable finance, a review of tax rules and support for new entrants and succession.

It was also great to hear from John Cherry, one of the founders of the mighty Groundswell, who dropped by the Landmatch England stand; Annie Landless from Ampney Brook Farm in the Cotswolds and Collumpton farmer Paul Baker, who shared observations and results on soil health from experimental rotations and herbal leys.

So much learning throughout the day, but of course, we were also there to share the news of the newly launched Landmatch England project. It was wonderful to speak with landowners, many of whom welcomed the project as a means of support to open up new opportunities on their land. It was also great to make connections with professionals who are keen to support us through advice and networks. Although Landmatch England didn’t get interviewed for BBC Spotlight’s evening news, we were proud to see our banner sneak into shot!

We will certainly be back at Rootstock in 2027, and in the meantime, we’re looking forward to attending more events this year. Do keep an eye on our events page to see what’s coming up.