The Open Farm Sunday organisers are encouraging more farmers than ever to throw back the gates and show the public first-hand how their food is produced.
Online entry is now open ahead of the event’s seventh year (June 17), and LEAF says the event is more important than ever.
Chief executive Caroline Drummond said: “As a nation we are becoming increasingly urbanised and many consumers are still disengaged with the countryside and the story behind their food.
“As well as showcasing the industry, Open Farm Sunday is also a fantastic opportunity for farmers to build bridges between themselves and the public and tell them about the valuable work they do.
“The feedback we get from farmers each year shows the wide range of benefits they receive from taking part and how much they enjoy the day too!
“Benefits mentioned range from building community relations and raising a farm’s profile through to increasing sales. But it is the face-to-face engagement that is the most important part – no matter what the size or type of event.
“Whether you are opening your gates to 30 or 300 visitors, all events are of equal importance and value. Size doesn’t matter to LEAF – it’s the engagement with the public that really counts.”
Following feedback from farmers, sponsors and supporters the 2011 theme – ‘Discover Life On Our Farms’ will remain for 2012.
New elements include a national Pollinator Survey, supported by OFS sponsor Syngenta in partnership with the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology. This is billed as a great opportunity for the public and farmers to work together and for people of all ages to understand the importance of nature to their food (the value of insect pollination is estimated at £131 billion globally).
LEAF wants at least 100 UK farms to take part in the survey and full training and support will be provided.
- To register, and to find out about LEAF’s resource packs, regional coordinators and free advice sessions, click here.
- Follow Open Farm Sunday on Twitter here.
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