Farmer Focus: Opting for new dairy as arable no longer pays - Farmers Weekly

Latest News About UK agriculture pivots from cereals to milk production

UK farmers are shifting away from arable crops for dairy herds, as milk prices rise. High fertiliser costs are pressuring cereal grower profits in England and Scotland, while profit margins narrow. Fertiliser prices declined but remain excessively steep for many, and many farmers cope. In Scotland, wildfires near Aviemore forced evacuations and kept firefighters on alert in dry weather, the heat has also parched the land. The blazes hit local farms and highlighted safety issues, local communities monitor. Paul Burke now heads England’s Horticulture Council after taking over as chair, he took over from his predecessor. Some West Midlands growers are planting trees instead of wheat, as part of a move. Low subsidies and high bills make growing crops hard for many families dealing with rising costs. Near Westmeath, a beef farmer will expand forestry as arable farming wanes, aiming to balance income loss.

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