Welcome to Shed Talks

In this episode hosts Naomi Williams-Roberts and Josh Redford explore how farmers are managing livestock nutrition after a dry summer, what support is available, and how the NFU is helping members plan for the season ahead. Naomi shares what it’s like to open her on-farm pumpkin patch for the season, while Josh reflects on preparing for the NFU’s upcoming annual general meetings.

They are joined by James Daniel from Precision Grazing and NFU Livestock Board Chair David Barton, who offer practical tips on making the most of limited forage, the value of early planning, and how to stay flexible in a changing climate. Read more on the NFU's sustainable protein action plan: https://www.nfuonline.com/updates-and-information/sustainable-protein-action-plan/

In our Westminster segment, Olivia Phoenix is joined by Scott Pepe to look ahead to a busy autumn of political lobbying. They discuss the NFU’s strong presence at this year’s party conferences, where the team engaged with over 600 politicians and hosted key discussions on the future of food and farming.

Finally, we hear from Professor Nigel Mason at the University of Kent about his team’s remarkable work growing tea in simulated moon soil — and how this space science might have lessons for agriculture back on Earth.

Key themes and takeaways:

• Drought has long-term impacts on grazing and winter feed
• Early planning and advice are vital for livestock resilience
• Mob grazing and rotational grazing can help maximise grass use
• The NFU provides ongoing support for members through seasonal challenges
• Political engagement is essential for shaping farming policy
• Strong representation at party conferences keeps farming on the national agenda
• Space science can offer new ideas for managing poor soils
• Research into lunar agriculture has lessons for food security on Earth

Listen now on the NFU App, Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

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