With a range of different attractions to draw in visitors from across the arable industry, this year’s Cereals Event (12th-13th June) promises to offer advice, experiences and the chance to test some kit. CPM finds out more.
By Melanie Jenkins
Cereals has been a staple event in the farming calendar for over 40 years, and has brought some of the most cutting-edge research, machinery and knowledge into farmers’ reach.
This year promises to be no exception, with a number of new additions, exhibitors, speakers and live demos. Alongside new product launches and interactive experiences, there’s something for every visitor.
So what are the key reasons to attend this year’s event?
NIAB Soil Pit
The Soil Pit is a well-established feature of the event, offering visitors a chance to step down and discover a unique perspective of soil structure and cover crop mixes.
Soil health and structure are the basis for any successful crop and it’s an especially hot topic right now with the launch of the Government’s 25-year environment plan, which has put the subject firmly in the spotlight.
The NIAB Soil Pit is designed to show farmers what really goes on below ground level and how to tackle some of the most important soil issues.
Live talks
With over 100 expert speakers and lively debates planned for the AHDB Theatre, visitors will be able to listen to and discuss a range of interesting topics.
Whether farmers want to get an in-depth analysis of the latest Brexit news or discover the latest trade trends, talks in the AHDB Cereals Controversial marquee will provide all the information to minimise the impacts of a No-Deal Brexit. In the targeted sessions, visitors will be able to pick up advice and hear from key decision makers involved in regulating the changes.
Visitors will also be able to pick their top seminars in the Conservation Agriculture, Innovation and Technology Theatres. Topics will include nitrates in water, zero-till, safeguarding glyphosate, health and safety and using biologicals for pests and disease, as well as data driven farming and alternative weed controls.
Or visit the International Farming Superstars theatre where exceptional farmers from across the world will be in attendance to discuss their own farming practices and give key tips behind their own success.
Maybe talk about the technical information in Cereals Conservation marquee? And the International Farming Superstars section?
Live demonstrations
A huge range of live demonstrations will be on offer, where machinery will be put to the test to compare power, productivity and performance of tractors, cultivators, drills and subsoilers.
Being able to see machinery in true working conditions will give visitors a valuable insight into what could work for them.
Hands-on experience
In the Ride and Drive Arena, visitors will be able to jump into the driving seat and get a hands-on experience of the latest machinery, technology and equipment to improve on farm productivity and operations.
With the expert guidance of qualified representatives, visitors will be taken through all the settings and will be able to get all of their questions answered, while enjoying the ride.
Crop plots
The heart of the Cereals Event, the crop plots offer visitors the chance to view new varieties and practices for a huge selection of crops. Learn about the pros and cons off different options, and compare and analyse competing varieties.
Farmers will also get the opportunity to interact with over 20,000 like-minded visitors; learning from their personal experiences and discovering alternative methods that could help to improve their businesses.
