'Reduce what you can. Offset what you can't.' 

THIS is the message that will take centre stage at The Dairy Show 2023. 

The show, which will take place on October 4 at the Bath & West Showground, will include practical ways to lower carbon emissions and provide farmers with the latest advice, research and tools to help them on the path to net zero. 

Chairman of the show David Cotton, chose the carbon theme in light of growing pressure on the industry to lower its environmental impact and improve sustainability.

“We wanted to go with carbon because very often, if you lower your carbon footprint, it helps overall business performance,” he said.

“It’s the things you can do over time that will make a difference to carbon footprint, whether that’s breeding, soil management, or efficiency through energy use."

Seminars will take place throughout the day, focusing on ways that ways farmers can tackle specific areas within their business to help reach the industry’s target of net zero by 2040.

Bennamann's presentation in the seminar area will look at practical solutions to lower methane emissions and energy costs. The company's Grant Crawford will showcase their system which enables farmers to cover their slurry lagoons and convert the captured fugitive methane into fuel. This can be used to power farm vehicles or a farm generator.

Mr Crawford added: “We do all the processing on farm and we sell the energy back to the farmer at a really competitive rate compared to what they’re currently paying and we aim to fix that for five years."

South West Farmer: The Dairy Show

There will also be a variety of other seminars throughout the day including:

  • Farm Carbon Toolkit: Becky Wilson will explain how management changes can influence emissions and business performance and also highlight recent trial work on soil carbon sequestration.
  • MoleCare Vets: Andy Adler will be taking a philosophical approach to how farmers can reach net zero. He’ll be introducing the business concept of ‘weed, seed and feed’ which is focused on giving up what’s not needed, nurturing what is, and monitoring results. 

As well as this, there will be a wide array of trade stands at the event offering support on all aspects of dairy farming from grass management to financial planning, milk testing, animal health, and machinery.

The headline sponsor for the event is Mole Valley Farmers. 

Competitions Executive Naomi Guiver says dairy cattle remain at the heart of the show: “We have 57 showing classes taking place on the day, including showmanship and calf classes.

“Five breeds will be showcased, plus the Any Other Dairy Breed class. And we’ll also be hosting the Jersey and Guernsey National Shows. Entries close on September 19, so get those entries in now!”