Technology transfer is under the microscope
Technology transfer is under the microscope
HOW best to improve transfer of technology to dairy farmers is the focus of a feasibility study to be carried out in the south-west.
The aim is to improve information flow between researchers, consultants and farmers and, depending on the studys findings, that could mean more widespread use of farmer run discussion groups.
The study, funded the Milk Development Council, Midland Bank, Devon County Council and the EU, will explore the possibilities of using farms as demonstration sites for research and setting up farmer discussion groups to better disseminate research messages.
"The aim is to improve technology transfer," explained Prof Rod Blackshaw, acting dean of the Seale Hayne faculty of agriculture, food and land use at the University of Plymouth.
The university, alongside Bicton College of Agriculture, Devon, Milk Marque, NMRand Axient, and Duchy College, Cornwall, is part of the south-west dairy partnership, the driving force behind the initiative.
"I hope we will be able to set up milk clusters – groups of farmers who will be able to help each other develop their businesses," said Prof Blackshaw. He envisaged each group could comprise six to 10 farmers, and one of which – a good communicator – could be involved in meetings with other key group members and consultants. "It would work as a cascade system with advisors and researchers feeding information to key farmers who would then go back and desseminate it to the rest of the group."
He sought a more interactive approach between researchers, consultants and farmers – but realised success depended on farmers being receptive to change, and keen to participate.
"The idea is to bring together the academic expertise of Seale Hayne with the more practical expertise of colleges in the region, and develop ways of reaching out to farmers to deliver the appropriate training to them and reinforce the competitive position of the dairy industry in the region."