Dairy event looks at diversification opportunities

This year’s Diversifarm exhibition at the Dairy Event and Livestock Show will look at opportunities in renewables.

Diversifarm, which will be staged by the RABDF and sponsored by the Country Land and Business Association, will provide information on opportunities for farmers considering diversification.

Advice will be available on how to use existing farm assets, such as redundant farm buildings, to create a new income stream.

With environmental regulations tightening, the benefits gained by reducing slurry handling and waste management requirements are attractive, says Douglas Chalmers, CLA director North.

“Farmers are also keen to know more about generating power and heat for their own requirements and selling any surplus.”

“Diversification opportunities are far wider than simply renewables,” says Mr Chalmers. “Visitors to the CLA stand in previous years have bought queries ranging from visitor attractions, to employing family and staff off the farm altogether.

“Diversification comes in degrees, and must suit the people as well as the land and buildings.”

About 27% of farmer visitors at a previous event had already diversified in to areas such as tourism, sports facilities or retailing, with more than 34% planning to do so in the future.

“Diversifarm will offer visitors the chance to examine their existing enterprise, understand the marketplace and make informed business decisions.”