Thank you to all those who joined us on our Miscanthus Supply Chain & Harvest Open Day, held on February 26, 2025, in Hackthorn, Lincolnshire.
The event brought together farmers, contractors, and industry professionals to explore the role of Miscanthus in sustainable farming. Hosted in partnership with NIAB at the farm of grower William Cracroft-Eley, we were able to provide valuable insights into Miscanthus research, financial opportunities, and its impressive carbon storage potential.
Live Miscanthus harvest demo with Lincolnshire contractor, Tim Russon.
Key takeaways:
- Live miscanthus harvest demonstration – showcasing advancements in breeding, planting technology, and crop monitoring.
- Economic and environmental benefits – experts detailed financial returns and sustainability advantages for growers.
- NIAB research insights – The Centre for High Carbon Capture Cropping (CHCx3) project, funded by Innovate UK, highlighted Miscanthus’ role in CO₂ reduction and farm resilience.
- Growing market opportunities – discussions covered expanding demand and eligibility for Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) payments.
Dr Michal Mos, discussing Miscanthus breeding advancements.
Expert speakers included:
- William Cracroft-Eley & Florian Ilias (Terravesta) – presenting the business case for Miscanthus, highlighting its profitability compared with arable crops.
- Dr. Lydia Smith (NIAB) – carbon storage potential and resilient crop choices.
- Kevin Lindeergard, director of Crops for Energy – offering practical insights into Miscanthus growing for farmers.
- Dr Sanjeev Gajjela, Tomato Energy, discussing sustainable bio aviation fuel.
- Frank Gordon, head of policy at the REA, outlining biomass policy and support.
- Jonathan Scurlock, NFU chief adviser renewable energy and climate change, outlining domestic energy and biomass policy.
- Robert Meadley (Brown & Co) – updating farmers on SFI payments for Miscanthus.
- Dr. Chris Ashman (IBERS) & Dr. Michal Mos (Terravesta) – presenting the latest Miscanthus breeding research.
- Tim Russon (Lincoln-based contractor) – live field-cutting demonstration.
With lunch and refreshments provided, attendees had the opportunity to network and gain practical insights into farming Miscanthus.
William Cracroft-Eley, presenting the business case for Miscanthus.
Looking ahead
The event reinforced Miscanthus’ growing importance in regenerative agriculture, carbon capture, and economic sustainability. We look forward to continuing research and industry collaboration to support farmers in maximising their Miscanthus investment.
If you are interested in growing with us, contact the team to learn more.
