Farming News - GOV.UK: Soil health and profit: lessons from mixed, arable and upland farms

Farming News - GOV.UK: Soil Health and Profit

Lessons from Mixed, Arable, and Upland Farms

In a recent episode of the Defra Farming podcast, guest host Neil Pickard, an independent farming adviser with over 45 years of experience in livestock and mixed farming, interviews Stuart Johnson, Soil Farmer of the Year 2023, and Kyle Richardville from Understanding Ag. They explore how enhancing soil health can boost profitability on mixed, arable, and upland livestock farms.

Stuart Johnson's Farming Approach

Stuart Johnson is a tenant farmer in Northumberland managing sheep and cattle. He has transitioned from a conventional, high-input farming system to one that prioritizes soil health, achieving more sustainable results.

Kyle Richardville’s Scientific Insights

Kyle Richardville provides a scientific viewpoint, based on his research into soil microbial populations and his advisory work with farmers in both the UK and the US.

"Improving soil health can increase profitability on mixed, arable and upland livestock farms."

Their discussion highlights practical lessons on balancing productivity with soil wellbeing to secure long-term farm success.

Summary: Enhancing soil health through balanced farming methods improves both sustainability and profitability on mixed and upland farms, combining practical experience and scientific research.

Farming Online — 2025-10-22