Few would disagree with the importance of agricultural research and innovation in helping us to improve competitiveness and produce more while impacting less. Numerous reports over the last couple of years have set the tone and really elevated the need for a radical re-focusing of agricultural R&D effort and resource.
No less important than the research itself, and arguably more difficult to achieve, is the need to apply the positive results from the research programmes practically on farm. Knowledge transfer (KT) mechanisms are central to enabling the benefits of research to be translated into meaningful information for farmers and growers. For horticulture and potatoes, KT is delivered by the Horticultural Development Company (HDC) and Potato Council (PCL). But not all levy payers are yet convinced of, or engaged in, those programmes.
While visiting a number of farms in recent months, I received mixed views on the effectiveness of the KT programmes. I certainly met plenty of supporters; one grower went as far as showing me the changes made to his potato stores as a direct result of what he had learned from PCL storage events. At the other end of the scale, I met growers that had turned their back on KT events, saying they were too theoretical.
When talking to both HDC and PCL, it is clear that they are trying to address these concerns. Both say they are focused on increased engagement and practical events to help growers build sustainable, profitable businesses. They do this through a wide range of events, workshops, variety trials and demonstrations, to address the challenges of their diverse audience. And, together with a long list of publications, they have increased the use of online tools and videos with the aim of making events more accessible to levy payers.
Another criticism I heard from growers is that they don’t think they are getting value for money. Although, when questioned, it is clear there is a lack of understanding among growers of how the levy is spent. PCL commits 45 per cent of the levy on R&D and KT, as well as marketing, the provision of market information, storage expertise and work with British seed growers. HDC commits roughly 86 per cent of levy on R&D and KT, but both have been successful in boosting their budgets by attracting a significant level of sponsorship from various sources, and by maximising resources with a focus on leveraging existing events.
This debate may run on for some time yet. But, whether you are a supporter or doubter, one thing is absolutely clear: if you do not get involved, you will not have any influence. Get involved and tell HDC and PCL what you think. Feedback, both good and bad, will help steer the direction of the KT programmes in future. The better the programmes become, the more value growers will see. And in a sector as challenging as horticulture and potatoes, that can only be a good thing. -
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