The Power of Diversity at the 2024 Oxford Farming Conference: Insights from Wil Evans

In this episode of the Tramlines podcast, Tony Smith speaks with Wil Evans, Chair of the 2024 Oxford Farming Conference, to explore the theme “The Power of Diversity.”

They discuss the challenges and opportunities that diversity brings to farming and the wider agricultural industry.

Wil Evans’ Farming Background

Wil Evans: I’m a multi-generational farmer near Wrexham in North Wales. Our farm is situated in the small village of Bangor-on-Dee, close to the racecourse. We run a mixed farm with beef cattle and arable crops, in partnership with my parents, and my wife and I live on the farm with our four young daughters. We operate a circular system, buying calves from neighbouring dairy farms to fatten up, while keeping our feed purchases to a minimum.

How Wil Got Involved with the Oxford Farming Conference

Wil Evans: About six or seven years ago, I was invited to apply for the Emerging Leaders programme (now the Inspire Programme) at the Oxford Farming Conference. At the time, I had barely heard of it, but the opportunity opened my eyes to the wider world of agriculture. I met an inspiring group of people doing remarkable things, and it was a transformative experience for me, helping to shape my involvement in farming.

What is the Oxford Farming Conference?

Wil Evans: The Oxford Farming Conference started in 1936, created by farmers and academics in Oxfordshire to address major changes in the industry. Topics like labour shortages, soil fertility, and competition with emerging markets were as relevant then as they are today. Although farming has changed over the years, many core issues remain the same.

How the Theme “The Power of Diversity” Was Chosen

Wil Evans: The theme was inspired by the labour crisis and the need for a workforce that reflects the diversity of British society. Farming isn’t traditionally diverse, but we’re seeing some progress, especially with more women in farming. A diverse workforce brings fresh ideas and different perspectives, which can only strengthen the industry. Diversity goes beyond people—it also includes crop diversity, livestock breeds, and environmental initiatives.

Key Takeaways from This Year’s Conference

Wil Evans: The conference was incredibly dynamic. For example, we heard from David Mwanaka, a farmer originally from Zimbabwe, who started growing crops he missed from home, like white maize, which he sold in London out of his car. Now, he has a farm in Cambridgeshire and engages communities in North London on food and farming, inspiring everyone with his journey.

Can Diversity Help Address Labour Shortages in Farming?

Wil Evans: Diversity absolutely has a role to play. Today’s young people are environmentally aware, and many want meaningful work in fields like agriculture where they can contribute to fighting climate change. We need to communicate that farming offers exciting career opportunities and that it’s a sector at the forefront of environmental action.

How Can Farmers Build Resilience Amid Challenging Conditions?

Wil Evans: Climate change is one of the key reasons we need more resilient farm businesses. My farm has flooded multiple times this winter, and I’m considering alternative uses for some of my land, perhaps planting trees instead of cereal crops. Other farmers are diversifying with more sustainable livestock breeds or experimenting with different crop rotations to reduce nitrogen use and environmental impact.

The Importance of Diversifying Supply Chains

Wil Evans: At the conference, we launched a report on supply chain diversification, led by my colleague Ali Capper and retail expert Jed Foster. It addresses the current imbalance in the supermarket sector, where rising input costs are placing enormous pressure on farmers. The report explores what could happen if we don’t make necessary changes and offers a blueprint for more sustainable supply chains in UK farming.

Celebrating Differences: Why Listening is Key

Wil Evans: We live in divided times, and the conference was intended as a space to celebrate differences and encourage open discussion. By bringing together diverse voices, we aimed to create a more positive and collaborative environment to address farming’s challenges.

Top Lessons from the Oxford Farming Conference

1. Stay Connected: Farming can feel isolating, but attending events like the Oxford Farming Conference or agricultural shows fosters community and provides valuable support. Sharing experiences with others can help farmers realise they’re not alone in facing challenges.
2. Focus on Small, Positive Changes: Big changes can be overwhelming, but small actions add up. Whether it’s improving mental resilience, making sustainable choices on the farm, or simply planting a hedge, small efforts can lead to meaningful impact.

To hear Will's opening speech at the OFC or view other reports visit https://www.ofc.org.uk/.