Groundswell, as ever, is a vibrant meeting ground for farmers, growers, activists, organisations, researchers, and enthusiasts dedicated to growing and improving the way we farm. This year, 10000 of us gathered to share ideas and inspiration. Over two packed days, the site was filled with talks, demos, farm walks, lively conversations, and a shared vision of a sustainable agroecological and healthier future.
Every year it is good to realise how many farmers are looking for change and better methods, renewed life and practice and are seeking to reduce chemicals and soil compaction. We have passionate conversations with organic and regenerative farmers, with the old man and his young son saying “I think I got it wrong, I want to help him find a better way” and others almost crying with sadness and frustration that they are caught in a financial or family situation that is preventing them from making the change they want to make. It is so satisfying to be there with other organisations working for similar aims to the BD Land Trust such as Whole Health Ag (WHAg), Nature Friendly Farming Network (NFFN), Agricology, the farm researchers, the carbon measurers and proponents of organic and agroecological farming. This year it was also great to see Prince William talking up Regen Ag as a farming approach for the future.
The BD Land Trust joined forces with the Biodynamic Association to represent the biodynamic movement. Together, we welcomed visitors to our stall, answering questions and sharing insights into biodynamic farming. We also hosted a dedicated session Water of Life – restoring balance and clean water in the landscape alongside several inspiring panellists.
Chaired by Gabriel Kaye of the BD Land Trust, the session brought together practical examples and ideas from across the UK and further. From managing water at the farm level to revitalising entire catchments, our panellists shared case studies on how healthy water systems support biodiversity, improve soil health, and build resilience to floods and droughts. We heard from the Flow Partnership on natural flood management, the Rivers Trust on community-led river restoration, and the Greening Chiddingly group’s inspiring catchment work. Westover Farm’s chalk stream project showed just how much patience and courage it takes to let a landscape find its way back to health. We also heard about practical ways farms can treat and revitalise their own water supplies on site. We hope the session inspired the audience to think more seriously about water on their holdings and how it is managed now and in the future.
Another highlight for me was the Dung Beetle Safari led by the brilliant Claire Whittle. Claire spoke with real passion about the vital role dung beetles play in our fields – how they break down manure, enrich soil life, decrease parasites, and help cycle nutrients. She also shed light on the detrimental effect chemical wormers and antibiotics have on their populations and showed us how to spot different species and the tell-tale signs of their underground work. Following the safari, The Importance of Livestock in Our Landscapes dug deeper into how grazing animals shape the land. Experts shared recent research on how, with good regenerative practices and proper stock management, livestock can help create healthier habitats while producing nutritious meat and other animal products.
My first Groundswell left me with a renewed sense of responsibility and possibility. The ideas we shared – from reviving streams to protecting dung beetles – only come to life when we put them into practice. So, let’s take these conversations home to our farms and communities. Talk to your neighbours, start projects, experiment, share what works and what doesn’t. Regeneration happens one decision at a time – and it starts with us. See you next year!
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