Information Resources

William Macalpine from Rothamsted Research discussed advancements in breeding new short rotation coppice (SRC) willow varieties, supported by the UK Government’s Biomass Feedstocks Innovation Programme. The project utilises genomic selection to accelerate breeding for improved yield and disease resistance, with willow genotypes being tested across various UK environments. Will emphasised the importance of breeding for sustainable production.

Lindsay Whistance from the Organic Research Centre (ORC) spoke on the nutritional value of tree species for livestock, underscoring the importance of a multi-species approach. She highlighted the nutritional benefits of species like willow, while cautioning against the risks posed by others, such as yew. Her insights aligned with ongoing tree trials at the Demonstrator Hubs, where willow and alder are being grown.

Simeon Day, from the Farming and Wildlife Advisory Service (FWAG) discussed the benefits of agroforestry for livestock farming. He highlighted how good planning can optimise the advantages of tree cover for both silvopasture and silvo-arable systems. He emphasized improved animal welfare, increased productivity, and enhanced ecosystem services, noting that these systems are financially supported in the Sustainable Farming Incentive ( SFI) schemes for both the planning and establishment costs.

Slides from Prof. Yit Arn Teh's informative talk on multifunctional landscapes, biomass crops, and end-uses. His talk focused on how to design farms that are multifunctional, and the benefits and trade-offs of multifunctional landscapes.

At our Newcastle Demo Event on 3rd July 2024, Prof. Jeanette Whitaker, project lead for Biomass Connect gave an overview of the Biomass Connect project, emphasising the need for more homegrown biomass feedstock for renewable energy for heat, power and transport, and other end-uses.

Slides from a recent Biomass Connect presentation by Dr. Rebecca Rowe (UKCEH) presented at the NIAB Headley Hall Demonstrator Hub on 16th May 2024 as part of the Biomass Connect demo event. The presentation outlines the SFI Biodiversity Scheme

Slides from a recent Biomass Connect presentation by Judith Ford (University of Leeds) presented at the NIAB Headley Hall Demonstrator Hub on 16th May 2024 as part of the Biomass Connect demo event.

Slides from a recent Biomass Connect presentation by Mark Needham presented at the NIAB Headley Hall Demonstrator Hub on 16th May 2024 as part of the Biomass Connect demo event.

Slides from a recent Biomass Connect presentation about the potential end-uses of biomass crops. By Jeanette Whitaker from the UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology.