Farmer Focus: Opting for new dairy as arable no longer pays - Farmers Weekly

Latest News About Rising costs push British growers toward dairy

UK farmers are shifting away from arable crops for dairy herds, as milk prices climb. High fertiliser costs are squeezing cereal grower profits in England and Scotland, while profit margins narrow. Fertiliser prices fell but remain unaffordable for many, and many growers struggle. In Scotland, wildfires near Aviemore forced evacuations and kept firefighters busy in dry weather, the heat has also parched the land. The blazes hit local farms and sparked safety issues, local communities watch. Paul Burke now leads England’s Horticulture Council after taking over as chair, he succeeded his predecessor. Some West Midlands growers are planting trees instead of wheat, as part of a trend. Low subsidies and high bills make growing crops tough for many families dealing with rising costs. Near Westmeath, a beef farmer will expand forestry as arable farming fades, aiming to counterbalance income loss.

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