Presentation: Lindsay Whistance, The value of trees as supplementary fodder

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.

This case study features the planting of two varieties of black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia), a fast-growing tree species not normally cultivated in the UK. This pioneering trial is being undertaken on agricultural land owned by H.G. Matthews, a traditional brickmakers located in Buckinghamshire