Agenda (Draft)
Kickstart the day with networking opportunities over coffee and pastries.
The chair introducing the conference theme and outlining the objectives of Agronomy Exchange: collaboration, innovation, and practical agronomy insights for the UK.
A forward-looking address exploring the direction of UK agronomy — from evolving agricultural policy and sustainability goals to the transformative role of AI and emerging technologies
Soil is the cornerstone of profitable and sustainable farming. This session explores the latest science, practical management strategies, and on-farm experiences to improve soil resilience and productivity under UK conditions.
How can UK growers rethink crop protection in an era of tighter regulation, climate uncertainty, and increasing public scrutiny? A panel of experts and practitioners will explore greener strategies — from biocontrols to innovative chemistry and emerging technologies — and debate what the future of sustainable crop protection could look like.
1. Cropwalking vs Drones:
This session compares traditional cropwalking with drone-based monitoring, highlighting how each method contributes to crop health assessment, early disease detection, and sustainable decision-making. Learn how agronomists can combine hands-on expertise with aerial technology to optimise yields and resource use.
2. Future-Proofed Cropping: Rotation & Nutrient Strategies
Examining how crop rotations, soil stewardship, and sustainable nutrient management will shape resilient UK farms in the future. Learn how strategic planning can balance yield, profitability, and long-term ecosystem health.
3. Integrated Weed Control: Smarter Strategies for Arable Crops
This session will cover the practical combination of cultural, mechanical, and chemical control methods, the use of precision technologies and decision-support tools, and strategies to reduce herbicide reliance while maintaining crop performance.
Three progressive UK farmers share their agronomy journeys — from regenerative systems and organic practices to carbon-focused arable strategies. Each case study highlights what worked, what didn’t, and the lessons for the wider industry.
How can agronomists and farmers measure, manage, and report on carbon? This session explores soil carbon science alongside real-world experience of integrating sustainability into commercial arable systems.
Agronomy is evolving fast, with digital tools, regulation, and climate pressures changing advisory roles. This session asks what new knowledge and skills will agronomists need in 2030 and beyond? Followed by audience Q&A.
To end we will award those that have highlighted innovation, collaboration, and future-thinking in the arable sector and agronomy.
Join us to raise a glass to the winners of the awards and network over drinks and nibbles.