1. The Government’s 25-Year Plan—But Who’s Really Driving Change?
Steve Reed’s unveiling of a 25-year vision for farming sparked plenty of debate. But here’s the thing: while long-term strategy is essential, the consensus among attendees was clear—real change isn’t waiting for government. Farmers, agribusinesses, and communities are already adapting and innovating on the ground.
What it means for farmers: Keep doing what you’re doing. This long-term plan might help down the line, but for now, it’s business as usual—solving problems in real time.
For the agri-community: Collaboration matters. Let’s bridge those divides between “tribes” (yes, even the different Oxford conferences) and start working towards shared goals: resilient farms, thriving ecosystems, and fair profits.
What it means for policymakers: Strategy is important, but trust-building is essential. Farmers need to see practical, short-term actions that prove government is serious about supporting the sector, not just setting long-term targets.
2. Inheritance Tax Reforms: The Pitchfork Moment
Nothing grabbed headlines quite like the inheritance tax changes. There was frustration, air horns, and a bit of dark humour from outgoing OFC Chair Geoff Sansome about the timing and harmony of the protest orchestra.
What it means for farmers: The reforms could force tough decisions on generational handovers. Farmers will need legal and financial support to navigate these changes without risking the viability of family farms. Word in the halls was there will be no 'U-Turn' so batten the hatches and don't let this issue dominate the conversation when there is more to be said and fought for elsewhere.
For the agri-community: The message is loud and clear—policy changes like this can’t happen without consulting the people they affect. This reform risks driving a wedge between policymakers and farmers when they need to be working together.
What it means for policymakers: Reform without consultation is a recipe for conflict. Policymakers need to find a balance between tax reform and protecting family farming businesses, which are crucial to rural communities and food security.
3. Gene Editing Gains Momentum—But Will It Work for Everyone?
The potential for gene-edited crops and livestock is huge. Michael Kavanagh’s presentation on nutrient variation in crops depending on soil quality drove home the need for innovation that works in specific local conditions, not a one-size-fits-all approach.
What it means for farmers: Gene editing could reduce losses and improve resilience, but it needs to be accessible to small and mid-sized farms, not just big agribusiness.
For the agri-community: Local context matters. Farmers need to be involved in shaping how these technologies are applied on the ground.
What it means for policymakers: Regulation should focus on enabling access while ensuring safety and transparency. Support for smaller farms to adopt these innovations is critical to avoid widening the gap between large-scale and smaller producers.
4. Climate Change is Here—Adapt or Fall Behind
Gaia Vince’s sobering presentation made it clear: we’re already living in the post-climate change era. This isn’t something on the horizon; it’s happening now.
What it means for farmers: Adaptation isn’t optional. Whether it’s new crop varieties, water management strategies, or switching to regenerative practices, resilience will be key.
For the agri-community: Support farmers in making transitions now—not when it’s too late.
What it means for policymakers: Climate adaptation policies must be urgent, actionable, and locally tailored. Incentives should reward those already leading the way in resilience and sustainability.
5. Natural Capital on the Balance Sheet—A Bold Idea
Professor Dieter Helm’s talk on treating natural capital like any other asset was one of the more thought-provoking moments. Helm argued that only the flows from natural capital should be monetized, while maintenance costs should be on the P&L.
What it means for farmers: This is a shift in mindset—viewing land and resources not just as production inputs, but as long-term assets to be protected.
For the agri-community: If adopted, this approach could encourage smarter investment in sustainable practices. The challenge? Turning theory into something practical.
What it means for policymakers: There’s an opportunity to embed natural capital accounting into national and local policy, but it will require clear guidance and support for farmers making the shift.
6. Technology for Sustainability—JCB’s Hydrogen Engines
JCB’s Tim Burnhope showcased their work on developing hydrogen-powered machinery, signaling a shift towards more sustainable mechanization. The race is on, and hydrogen combustion engines seem to be leading.
What it means for farmers: Cleaner energy could reduce farming’s carbon footprint—but will these new machines be affordable and reliable enough?
For the agri-community: This is where innovation and policy need to align. Without support, the transition to low-carbon tech will remain out of reach for many farmers.
What it means for policymakers: Support for R&D and incentives for low-carbon tech adoption will be essential if the UK wants to lead the way in sustainable farming.
7. Practical Collaboration is Key—Pooling Resources
A recurring theme across sessions was collaboration—not just talking about it, but doing it. Whether it’s pooling resources or co-creating projects, there’s a need to move from concept to action.
What it means for farmers: Teaming up with other farms or local businesses could open up new opportunities—whether it’s for marketing, resource-sharing, or innovation.
For the agri-community: Support networks matter. Whether it’s co-operatives, regional groups, or supply chain partnerships, we need systems that encourage and enable practical collaboration.
What it means for policymakers: Policy frameworks should actively support cooperative models and resource-sharing initiatives, which can help smaller farms thrive in an increasingly competitive environment.
8. Sustainable Farm Economics—Cash is Still King
Sustainable farming sounds great, but as many pointed out, if cash is tight, it stifles innovation. You can’t invest in sustainability if you’re struggling to break even.
What it means for farmers: The challenge is balancing short-term financial pressures with long-term sustainability goals.
For the agri-community: Retailers and processors need to play a bigger role in supporting sustainable farm economics—whether through fair pricing, finance initiatives like Tesco’s supplier scheme, or genuine partnerships.
What it means for policymakers: Policy needs to tackle the underlying economic pressures in farming. Without financial stability, farmers can’t invest in innovation or sustainability.
9. Networking and Mentoring—Building the Next Generation
Whether in the sessions, pubs, or cafes, one thing was clear: younger people are hungry for opportunities. But they need guidance and positive mentors.
What it means for farmers: Sharing knowledge and experience could be one of the most valuable contributions older generations make to the future of farming.
For the agri-community: Invest in mentoring and training programmes. We need to grow resilience in people, not just systems.
What it means for policymakers: Supporting education, apprenticeships, and mentoring initiatives will be key to ensuring the next generation of farmers is ready to take on the challenges ahead.
10. “Some Storms Take You Forward”
The final words of the conference came from ocean explorer Olly Hicks: “Some storms take you forward.” It was a reminder that tough times can lead to progress, even if it doesn’t feel like it at the time.
What it means for farmers: The road ahead won’t be easy, but with the right mindset, storms can bring unexpected opportunities.
For the agri-community: Let’s take this moment to drive real, lasting change—by supporting farmers who are already navigating stormy seas.
What it means for policymakers: Now’s the time to take bold, supportive action. Farmers are ready to lead—but they need policymakers who will work with them, not against them.
Looking Ahead to 2026: Growing Resilience
As we close the chapter on OFC 2025, a special thanks to outgoing OFC Chair Geoff Sansome for his outstanding leadership. Congratulations to Jude McCann, CEO of FCN, who takes over as Chair for OFC 2026. With the theme “Growing Resilience”, next year’s conference will focus on how farmers and the wider industry can build strength in the face of growing uncertainty—whether that’s economic, environmental, or social.
Here’s to a year of practical action, real collaboration, and, most importantly, resilient farming communities.
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