Monthly News Reel: What You Missed This July in the Farming World…

 

Welcome to our first monthly news reel for the Farm Business Innovation show. Find out the main stories you missed from this thriving industry.

As the your FREE ticket to the Farm Business Inonvation Show will point out, farm diversification has become the newest, and best, way to keep profits coming in. By seizing the opportunities that your land has to offer, you might be surprised by the results. Whether it be the usual farming of crops, the introduction of children’s adventure playgrounds, or venturing into the glamping world, the possibilities are endless.

This month, we take a look at the ways in which land has been used for the benefits, and sometimes failures, of its owners. By staying in-the-know, it becomes a lot simpler to learn from others mistakes and successes.

Luxury Glamping

The summer months are the time for holidaying, and enjoying the glorious British sunshine. What better way to do so than by taking a weekend away at a luxury glamping site?

A new site in Suffolk could be the place to go, set to open its doors as soon as possible. The plans were put together after the land was sold in 2018 and, since then, designs for eight 5-metre diameter tents, and three rustic barns, have been drawn up.

Considering calls for greener initiatives with the current state of worldly affairs, the Suffolk site aims to plant their structures amongst existing vegetation. With subtle, rustic designs, they should blend in nicely to the 150 acres of surrounding land.

Opening dates are unclear as of yet, but perhaps next year, we can welcome this new addition to the UK’s glamping sector.

Long Island Glamping Goals

America aren’t falling behind, as they welcome their first glamping site to Wildwood State Park in Long Island. Surrounded by nature, and tucked away behind the pitched up tents, are a group of 25 wooden cabins, dotted around the serene woods. These make the ideal getaway for a small family, or a couple looking for a romantic break.

With water views, they’re equipped with all the necessary modcons, like microwaves, full-sized bathrooms, and fridges. The cabins are available to rent from October onwards, so you can get back to nature, this Halloween season.

Eco-Friendly Glamping in Canada

Taking a trip to Canada? Be one of the first to stay in the new eco-friendly geodesic domes, at Buffalo Pound Lake, in Saskatchewan. They may be compact, but they have everything you’ll need to live comfortably, including bathroom facilities, a fridge, a double bed, and a sink. With a rustic wooden design, and views of the lake right on your doorstep, this will make for a magically romantic getaway.

Licensing Laws Could Cause Losses

After recent awareness has been raised regarding the benefits of cannabis in many medical cases, petitions to legalise hemp growth in the UK have been heeded. In certain conditions, and with the correct licensing, the Home Office will allow farmers to grow hemp on their land.

So why has one of the largest hemp farms in the UK, Hempen, based in Oxfordshire, come under fire?

Hempen have ceased production on their farm after the Home Office recently rejected their growing license, which they applied for in December. However, Hempen have fired back, stating that the Home Office’s regulations are unclear, and lead to confusion amongst hemp farmers.

Despite their protests, £200,000 worth of hemp was destroyed on Monday 22nd July and, for this small company of just 12 employees, the losses could be devastating. However, all is not lost, as they are working with a European partner, importing the plant instead, to avoid job losses.

Signing Off

Has this inspired you to adapt the ways you utilise your land? If so, then head on over to the Farm Business Innovation show on 6th-7th November at Birmingham’s NEC, to get a greater insight into the possibilities of farm diversification. Just apply for a FREE ticket today, and we’ll get the ball rolling for you.

Want to keep up-to-date with all the latest industry news? Our blog keeps you in-the-know with all things farm and land-owning, including tips and tricks to inspire you. In other news, we’ll see you here again, next month, for our “what you missed” break down.