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Northamptonshire Miscanthus open day for farmers

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In response to growing interest in Miscanthus, crop specialist Terravesta will host an information day for farmers in Northamptonshire on 16 October 2018.

Miscanthus is a perennial carbon-negative renewable energy crop which is currently grown on around 6,000 hectares of low-grade marginal land in the UK. It’s becoming an increasingly attractive diversification option for farmers due to the long-term price security it presents.

Local farmer Ashley Eastland is showcasing 34 hectares of Miscanthus on his farm in Bulwick at the event. “We planted the crop in 2017 due to a move away from arable because the rented land we farmed was sold off, leaving us with 40 hectares of our own, a combine harvester and some big decisions to make! We decided to plant Miscanthus having seen a neighbour who is successful with it.

“The crop is looking healthy and we are looking forward to our first harvest next spring,” says Ashley.

“Miscanthus takes care of itself and has allowed us to diversify further and we opened a pet food shop just over a year ago which is doing well. There are no inputs with it and it’s great to see no outgoings such as chemical, fertiliser and diesel bills leaving the account,” he says.

“As well as the Miscanthus crop on show at the event, there will also be a Massey Ferguson 2290 Hesston Baler and a Heath SuperChaser MC2 on display, care of leading agricultural contractor AgriBale Ltd.

Doug Price from AgriBale Ltd harvests Miscanthus in the spring months. “We are a large straw contractor in the UK and due to growing demand for Miscanthus we’re seeing more growers contact us for harvest assistance and with 12 balers we can manage the job comfortably. We’re based in Peterborough but cover an area of 200 miles and will be at the open day to speak to farmers about harvesting Miscanthus.”

To book and find out more about the open day host, Terravesta, visit: https://www.terravesta.com/#events

The Miscanthus open day

Date: Tuesday 16th October 2018

Time: 09:30 – 15:00

Miscanthus field tours: Taking place at10:00 12:00 14:00

Grower host: Ashley Eastland

Location: Lodge Farm, Bulwick, Northamptonshire, NN17 3DY

Cost: F.O.C

Catering: Food and drinks will be served all day