Groundswell is nearly here, and we're looking forward to another fantastic two days of conversations, learning and connection on 1 & 2 July. You'll find the NFFN team at the same stand as last year (PF B2), so whether you're already part of the network or just curious to find out more about nature-friendly farming, do come and say hello.

We're also hosting a drinks reception at the stand from 4.30pm on Wednesday 1 July, offering a relaxed opportunity to catch up with fellow farmers, meet the NFFN team and share ideas.

This year we're delighted to be taking part in the BASIS Knowledge Trail. If you're collecting CPD points through the trail, make sure to visit the NFFN stand to earn an additional CPD point.

And if you've been thinking about joining the network, Groundswell could be the perfect time. Anyone signing up as a new member during the event will be entered into a prize draw to win a wildlife camera.

Meet the NUTRIGROW team
We’re also delighted to welcome members of the NUTRIGROW programme to our stand at Groundswell. NUTRIGROW is a three-year project exploring how soil biology influences nutrient cycling, crop performance and fertiliser efficiency in arable and mixed farming systems. By bringing together data on soil biology, chemistry, structure and management history, the project aims to help farmers optimise nutrient use, improve economic returns and build more resilient soils. Come and find out more about the project, speak to the team, and get a sneak preview of the innovative platform being developed to help farmers turn soil data into practical management decisions.

NFFN sessions
NFFN will also be contributing to a number of sessions across the two days. The official Groundswell programme has not yet been published, so we're still waiting for confirmation of locations and timings for most sessions. The exception is our session in the Agroforestry Tent hosted by the Woodland Trust.

Our sessions include:

• Changing climate, changing crops: Scaling novel crops
  1 July, 4.00-4.55pm, The Study
  As growing conditions continue to change across the UK, farmers are increasingly experimenting with crops that were once considered unsuitable or commercially unviable. This session explores the opportunities, challenges and practical realities of integrating novel crops into British farming systems.
  Speakers: David Lord (quinoa), Josiah Meldrum (beans & pulses) and Hannah Buisman (wine) - chaired by Jenna Hegarty, Head of Policy.

• Reclaiming lost wisdom around the kitchen table
  2 July, 12.00-12.55pm, Agroforestry Tent
  Join experienced and retired farmers as they share insights into low-input, nature-friendly and intuitive farming approaches through informal "kitchen table" discussions. Together, we'll explore how practical knowledge can strengthen farm resilience for the future.
  Speakers: Pat Saunders (dairy), David Barker (arable); Facilitators: Harriet Saunders (dairy), Patrick Barker (arable), Holly Purdey (beef & sheep) - chaired by Holly Purdey

• Ruminants without regret: Upland sheep & cattle
  2 July, 11.00-11.55am, Speakers Corner
  Examining the role of grazing livestock in sustainable farming systems, this session will explore when and how sheep and cattle can support biodiversity, water management and reduced feed-food competition, drawing on hill and upland farming case studies.
  Speakers: Claire Beaumont (cattle farmer in Cumbria), Claire Whittle (Cattle farmer in Wales), Ifan Davies (cattle farmer in Wales & NFFN) and Phil Bertin (crofter).

You'll also find NFFN members sharing their expertise and experiences throughout the wider Groundswell programme, so keep an eye out for familiar faces across the event.

We look forward to seeing you at Groundswell 2026!