Scottish producers interested in improving their knowledge of regenerative agriculture will have the opportunity to hear from a world authority on the approach at a meeting to be held later this month.

BASE-UK, the independent member organisation with a focus on regenerative farming and soil improving principles, is to hold a meeting at the James Hutton Institute on February 12 with one of the founders of the soil health movement, US advocate of the approach Jay Fuhrer, as keynote speaker.

Fife farm manager and host of the AHDB’ s strategic arable farm in Scotland David Aglen, who is a member of the 500-strong organisation said: “Given the direction that the Scottish Government seems to be heading this could prove useful not only to those who are involved in regenerative agriculture but also to those who want to learn more about the practice and its principles.”

He explained that BASE-UK (Biodiversity, Agriculture. Soil and Environment) is a farmer-led knowledge exchange organisation for individuals interested in regenerative agriculture and passionate about the sustainability, health, and growth of the soil.

Mr Aglen said: “First set up in 2012, the group follows principles which are fundamentally about carbon management and health in soil based on three core principles – minimum soil disturbance, residue cover on the soil, and crop rotation.”

The meeting will also hear from leading researchers including the results of the effects of cover crops on nematode populations from soil ecologist Dr Roy Neilson.

Tracy Valentine will speak on the Grieve’s House long-term tillage trials. Tim George will update farmers on developments in monitoring soil health in regen ag systems. Finally, Dr Ali Karley will speak about on intercropping, and Dr Ken Loades talks soil carbon.