UK: PGRO warns of SFI impact on pulse crops

Published Apr 5, 2024

Tridge summary

The Processors and Growers Research Organisation (PGRO) has raised concerns about the impact of the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) on pulse crop rotations, warning that certain SFI practices could inadvertently promote soil-borne diseases by encouraging legumes to be left in the ground for too long. A report by Dr Becky Howard has been highlighted by PGRO, which outlines these potential negative consequences. The organization is advising growers to consider this report carefully before selecting an SFI option, as some of these options may disrupt normal crop rotations by promoting long-term or frequent short-term legume cropping, thereby increasing disease and pest risks. PGRO's CEO, Roger Vickers, stresses the importance of understanding these impacts, especially in light of the limited crop protection products available for pulses and the exclusion of beans from the EAMU system. Additionally, PGRO is conducting a survey to understand growers' intentions regarding pulse cultivation under the SFI scheme.

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Original content

The Processors and Growers Research Organisation (PGRO) has urged growers entering agreements for the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) to fully understand the potential impact these decisions will have on future pulse crop rotations. The organisation has raised concerns that the well-intentioned scheme could negatively impact production as legumes are included in some SFI options – meaning that the crops could be left in the ground for a number of years, increasing the likelihood of soil-borne diseases. A detailed paper written by Dr Becky Howard highlights some of the unintended consequences, and PGRO is advising all growers to read the report before committing to an SFI option. PGRO CEO Roger Vickers said: “We are not against the Sustainable Farming Incentive; in fact, we agree that farmers should be paid for providing positive environmental outcomes. “But PGRO and others involved in the pulse sector have serious concerns over the impact some options will have on cropping in ...

Source: UKFarmbusiness