A backing avail has been launched to provide devoid advice and technical counseling to constitutional farmers and those considering organic rebirth .
The Organic Advice , Support and Information Service ( OASIS ) has been prepare collaboratively by independent farm consultancy Abacus Agriculture and OF&G ( Organic Farmers and Growers ) , who attest over half the organic country in the UK .
With 60 years ’ experience in the sector Abacus Agriculture and OF&G are aim to facilitate farmers decide whether organic conversion is correct for their farm business , as well as providing existing organic farmers with the latest direction and technical guidance .
Ian Knight , director at Abacus Agriculture , says a cardinal objective of haven is to encourage Farmer to cautiously consider constituent as a executable and sustainable option for next prosperity . “ It ’s about making the conversion procedure a achiever and slim down commercial risk .
“ Many manufacturer and growers we utter to wonder whether constitutional is right for their business sector and want to know more about what it take to successfully commute . We ’ve create OASIS to help answer some of these fundamental interrogation , allowing farmers to assess whether the change required to become certified organic could suit their farm . ”
OASIS ’ unexampled site offers accurate data about organic spiritual rebirth , says Mr Knight . “ We have a simple self - assessment questionnaire to aid Fannie Merritt Farmer decide if it ’s the right choice , along with a tone - by - measure guide to help successful conversion . technological resources are also useable for existing organic farmers , to keep up - to - date with the latest research . ”
Alongside the website , OASIS has a helpline to a team of advisors that farmers can call . “ Qualified advisor are on hand to furnish additional advice and talk through any enquiry . If constituent product seems viable , there ’s then the option to purchase an consultative package which includes a farm visit to reckon feasibility and to rise an constituent conversion plan . ”
Ian Knight ( left ) and Steven Jacobs ( right )
Steven Jacobs , business development handler at OF&G , suppose there ’s Brobdingnagian opportunity for organic in the UK and globally .
“ The UK organic market has produce at around 5 % yr - on - twelvemonth for the preceding eight years and as a regenerative food yield system it provides a viable clientele option for many . But conversion is a significant commitment . It can take around two or three years and the conclusion to switch must be back up by sound economical sense .
“ We encourage anyone think about converting part or all of their farm to organic to visit the OASIS web site or to call the helpline for advice , ” concludes Mr Jacobs .
For info about organic conversion visit the OASIS website : https://organicinfo.org.uk / or call 0844 800 0091 .
