John Owen: A new opportunity within Lafan, a vibrant and growing community. ..

Forty years of hands-on involvement in agriculture, from commercial management in educational institutions to latterly more structured research and development, eventually lead to lead consultant role at Lafan. 

The opportunity to take voluntary redundancy coincided with a successful outcome of a development project, but I still felt I had more to give back to the industry that is so integral to rural life in Wales. Lafan gave me that opportunity with the flexibility to follow other interests, such as traveling, which over the years has given me an international perspective on development and challenges. I have travelled extensively with an eye on agriculture worldwide and always return with ideas that could be adopted here in Wales. 

My role with Lafan is to develop partnerships and support businesses on their journey to improve efficiency, be that through traditional routes or to look at emerging technology and opportunities. I can draw on the work I led on nutrient management and the development of technology to support decision making through data capture and analysis but also my understanding of the challenges faced from day to day. 

The industry is currently facing a great deal of uncertainties, what will the definitive version of the Sustainable Farming Scheme entail, will we get agreement on the adoption of a single carbon calculator, how can the industry benefit from the ability to sequester carbon and how should we manage Carbon Credits. 

We face new challenges constantly, be that from climate change, legislation, or financial pressures, but challenges can bring opportunities, I use the introduction of milk quotas as an example, what initially looked like a nail in the coffin for European dairy farming eventually brought stability and opportunity to many regions including Wales. Environmental constraints and the aspiration for Net Zero can, if managed carefully, not only benefit the environment but also offer opportunities for professionally managed businesses. 

I am relishing this new opportunity with Lafan, and the experience of working with such a broad range of expertise held by my colleagues who have the skills to support businesses and individuals in our diverse rural communities.

Please contact us if you feel that I or any of my colleagues can support you in any way, we would love to hear from you…

~ John Owen, Lead Consultant : Agritech