The innovative one day programme, being launched by the Royal Agricultural Society of England and sponsored by Barclays, is a day not to be missed as farmers are increasingly seeing unpredictable rainfall affecting their production systems – from drought and flooding to abstraction bans.

“This conference-style event will provide debate, practical ideas and technical advice about how UK agriculture can remain profitable in the face of these climate challenges,“ says David Gardner, Chief Executive of the RASE.

“We are delighted to announce that Professor Tim Benton, will kick off the day with a key note address, followed by a live debate looking at ‘The value of water’. The debate will hear first-hand how farmers and consumers value water and the high profile panel will discuss what needs to change across the supply chain to secure UK food production in the face of challenges such as flood, drought and rising water demand,“ Mr Gardner adds.

The afternoon will host a series of focused technical and business workshops sharing the latest information and advice on topics including irrigation, drainage, water abstraction, water storage and soil management across arable and livestock farms.

Several workshops will also look ahead to the technology and innovations of the future such as developments in plant genetics, soil biota and the potential for water trading to help farmers produce more with less.

The day will culminate with a thought-provoking summary of the big issues and an outline of what we need to be doing as a sector to remain profitable and sustainable.

Martin Redfearn, Barclays Head of Agriculture commented: “In a world in which the food needs of a rapidly growing population must be met from limited land and water resources with a minimal or even positive impact on the environment, the importance of this conference should not be understated.“

“The conference will not only advise on the management of these two key resources, but also highlight the clear links between the environment, best practice and the agricultural productively of soil and water.“

There are a limited number of visitor places so we would advise early booking for what promises to be an informative and inspirational day. For more information on Soil & Water LIVE please visit the website www.soilandwaterlive.org.uk