News

August brought a mix of warm, dry spells and a few violent storms across the network, producing a clear split between robust growth in some crops and drought- or wind-driven stress in others. Management this month focused on routine tidy-ups and targeted interventions where pests, wildlife or weather had caused damage. Several sites also prepared for autumn respray/mowing programmes for underperforming grass plots. 

A national workshop held on June 30th, 2025, brought together industry leaders, researchers, policymakers, and growers to discuss how the UK can build resilient, sustainable bio-based supply chains. The focus was clear: the UK must move away from fossil-based inputs and toward homegrown, renewable alternatives — with biomass crops playing a central role in this transformation.

July brought classic “grow and mow” conditions across the network—regular rain, warm spells and plenty of canopy push—so most plots moved on well while teams focused on tidy‑ups and close pest monitoring.

Biomass Connect was present as part of the IBERS (Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences) stand at the Royal Welsh Show 2025, contributing to a vibrant showcase of science-led solutions for resilient and sustainable agriculture.

In early June, larvae of the Tasmanian Eucalyptus Beetle (P selmani) were detected at the BGI site in Buckinghamshire. The outbreak was widespread, affecting both ends of the 10-year-old eucalyptus plot.

With the growing season now in full swing, biomass crops across the UK are showing strong progress — despite being one of the driest and sunniest months of May on record. From willow leafing up and Miscanthus shoots reaching knee-height, to poplars, Eucalypts, and alders putting on good height, activity has been brisk at every Demonstrator Hub.

On June 13th, the Biomass Connect team at AFBI Hillsborough welcomed 23 members of the Royal Forestry Society’s Northern Ireland Division for an engaging site visit and knowledge exchange.

With the growing season now in full swing, biomass crops across the UK are showing strong progress — despite being one of the driest and sunniest months of May on record. From willow leafing up and Miscanthus shoots reaching knee-height, to poplars, Eucalypts, and alders putting on good height, activity has been brisk at every Demonstrator Hub.