Agroecological Approaches to Livestock Nutrition

Event Date
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A technical event at Field Hall Farm, exploring the role of agroecological farming in improving livestock health and performance.

Date and time

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 11:30 - 16:00 GMT

Location

Atkin Farms, Field Hall Uttoxeter ST14 8SG

Register HERE

Are you looking to improve animal health, reduce input costs, and build long-term farm resilience? Join us for a unique opportunity to walk Rob Atkins’ working Staffordshire farm and explore how agroecological practices including herbal leys and grazed catch crops are supporting healthier livestock and more sustainable systems.

 

Whether you're already experimenting with diverse forages or just starting to consider how soil and sward diversity can benefit your herd, this farm walk and expert-led workshop will offer:

  • Real world insight into how agroecological principles are being applied on a commercial livestock farm
  • Expert input from Nigel Kendall (University of Nottingham) on the science behind animal nutrition, forage quality, and mineral uptake
  • Practical examples of diverse grazing systems, rotational planning, and nutrient cycling in action

 

Field Hall Farm in Uttoxeter is a 1,160-acre mixed arable and beef farm transitioning towards using agroecological practices. Farm manager Rob Atkin produces the main combinable crops using a conventional low-impact system, while also managing a herd of 320 beef cattle on low-input grass. His focus is on doing what’s best for the environment and his business, aiming to improve soil health, water quality, and biodiversity, while stacking payment options to maximise profits.

 

The event is free to attend, a light lunch and refreshments will also be included.

Test Solutions, Practices and Technologies with ADOPT

Got a great idea or approach to boost your farm’s productivity or sustainability? The ADOPT fund and innovation Support Hub are here to help you trial real solutions, get expert support, and access funding – all tailored for farmers, growers and foresters in England.

 

  • Test your ideas on-farm with practical, farmer-led research
  • Get funding – for application support (£2,500), and full project support (£50,000 - £100,000)
  • Work with experts & other farmers to turn ideas into action

 

Start your process and contact the Support Hub

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Connected Content

Regenerative farming looks to optimise the use of the ecological system and environment, in order to benefit from the natural ecosystem services that they provide.

The Farming and Land Use Team at the Soil Association have a specialist knowledge of all UK agricultural sectors as well as in depth understanding of organic and agroecological food production systems. Our goal is to support organic and non-organic farmers alike to transition towards more sustainable practices.

Agroecology is a holistic and integrated approach that simultaneously applies ecological and social concepts and principles to the design and management of sustainable agriculture and food systems. Definition from FAO.

The livestock industry is an integral part of the agricultural sector, encompassing various aspects of animal husbandry and production. It plays an important role in global food security and supports the livelihoods of millions of people worldwide.

Animal nutrition plays a crucial role in livestock agriculture for several reasons, as it directly impacts the health, productivity, and overall wellbeing of farm animals.