Farming: organic farming
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The information available on organic farming has been grouped together for easy reference based upon specific groups of users. For the farming sector there are quick links to guidance on converting to organic, organic systems and funding. Additional sections have also been created for: |
Focus: Environmental stewardshipFinancial support is available for those converting to organic production under Organic Entry Level Stewardship (OELS) of Environmental Stewardship. See the funding page for the key points of OELS. |
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Latest news
The market for organic products is generally buoyant and expanding. Retail sales of organic produce are now worth approx. £1.2 billion per year with considerable opportunity for import substitution through increasing home production. All the available evidence suggests that for the foreseeable future the UK organic market will continue to increase and many farmers and growers may be missing a good business opportunity if they do not give serious thought to organic production.
Not only could converting your farm help improve your businesses profitability, but it could also result in improvements in biodiversity, agricultural diversity and employment as well as helping to play a key part in the re-connection of agriculture with the public.
Organic farming is not an easy option though and those considering conversion may need training if their enterprise is to succeed and should ensure that they have a sound business plan in place prior to conversion. A number of organisations and colleges offer courses in organic agriculture and horticulture.
For further information on the organic food and farming sector see:
See also our list of related websites that provide information on organic food and farming.
Contacts:
See Organic Contacts
Page last modified: 25 March 2008
Page published: 1 July 2006