Earlier this month, around 200 farmers, conservationists, researchers, and nature enthusiasts gathered at Llangors for the Nature Friendly Farming Network’s (NFFN) inaugural Cynefin event. And what a weekend it was!
Organised in partnership with the Montgomeryshire Wildlife Trust, the weekend was defined by a warm, optimistic atmosphere, rich conversations, and meaningful relationship building. Over two days, attendees explored what that deep connection to place and land truly looks like in action across Wales.
As farmer Sorcha Lewis neatly captured during one of the weekend's panels, "Cynefin is a small word for a very big thing."
Saturday: Grazing, hedgerows, curlews and high energy
The weekend kicked off by challenging the narrative that livestock farming and environmental health are inherently at odds. Farmer Emma Douglas opened with an insight into how livestock grazing can actively create and manage some of our most vital habitats. Dairy farmer Huw Foulkes followed with a look at regenerative grazing, demonstrating how thoughtful herd management can drive both business performance and ecological resilience. While agriculture doesn't always get it right, the session showed that when grazing is managed well, the benefits spill over in every direction.
Next came a masterclass in hedgerows led by Megan Gimber, who reminded us that "hedgerows are the Swiss army knife of habitats." She walked through their rich history, management techniques, and ecological value. Farmers Claire Whittle and Rhodri Lloyd-Williams brought the practical perspective, detailing how healthy hedges boost soil health, mitigate flooding, and provide critical shade and shelter for stock.
