BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Biomass Connect - ECPv6.16.3//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:Biomass Connect X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.biomassconnect.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Biomass Connect REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:UTC BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0000 TZOFFSETTO:+0000 TZNAME:UTC DTSTART:20210101T000000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240516T130000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240516T163000 DTSTAMP:20260604T231129 CREATED:20240301T142256Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240516T141025Z UID:10000114-1715864400-1715877000@www.biomassconnect.org SUMMARY:Biomass Connect Demo: SFI Schemes and Biodiversity - Enhancing Biomass Crop Sustainability DESCRIPTION:SFI Schemes and Biodiversity: Enhancing Biomass Crop Sustainability\nNigel Bertram Visitor Centre\, Paradise Way\, Tadcaster\, LS24 9GF\nWhat 3 Words: ///excellent.crunch.bunch \n16th May 2024\n \nWelcome to the Biomass Connect Demo Event: SFI Schemes and Biodiversity: Enhancing Biomass Crop Sustainability \nJoin us on Thu May 16 2024 at 13:00 in Headley Hall\, Tadcaster for an exciting event focused on sustainable biomass production. \n\nLearn about SFI schemes and how they promote biodiversity in biomass crops.\nConnect with experts in the field and discover the latest innovations in biomass technology.\n\nDon’t miss out on this opportunity to network and gain valuable insights into the future of biomass production. See you there! \nAgenda\n1 pm – Register and refreshments \n1.30 pm – Introductions and plan for the afternoon: \n\nStewart Ritchie\, plot manager at the NIAB Biomass Connect site.\nMark Needham from Biomass Connect\, Benefits and opportunities of biomass crops.\n\nFollowed by \n\nDr Lydia Smith and Jasmine Toole: The Centre for High Carbon Capture Cropping (CHCx3) project at NIAB Cropping options for carbon capture and storage.\nDr Rebecca Rowe\, Centre for Ecology and Hydrology: The logic and benefits behind the SFI Biodiversity Scheme\nDr Judith Ford\, Leeds University\, ClieNFarms a project that is developing and scaling up systemic\, locally relevant solutions to foster climate-neutral and climate-resilient farms.\n\n2:15-2:30 – Minibus to the biomass demonstration plots (approx. 5 minute journey) \n2:30pm – Plot Tours \nA walk around the trial plots will aim to cover: \n\nThe practicalities of establishing the biomass crops and the SFI headland mixtures; Stewart Ritchie NIAB site manager and Will Macalpine of Rothamsted Research and NIAB agronomists        \nMeasuring biodiversity\, Dr Rebecca Rowe\nHow carbon is sequestered\, Dr Lydia Smith and Jasmine Toole\n\n3.45 /4pm  – Return to the centre for Tea\, Cake and Networking \nPlease note wear suitable outdoor foot wear.  Plastic shoe covers will also be provided to help with biosecurity and to keep the shuttle bus clean ! \n  \n  \n\n Register Here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n  \n  URL:https://www.biomassconnect.org/event/biomass-connect-demo-niab-headley-hall-sfi-schemes-and-biodiversity-for-biomass-crops/ LOCATION:Nigel Bertram Visitor Centre\, Nigel Bertram Visitor Centre\, Paradise Way\, Tadcaster\, LS24 9GF CATEGORIES:Demo Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.biomassconnect.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/NIAB-2024-Demo-Event-Slide.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240222T100000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240222T133000 DTSTAMP:20260604T231130 CREATED:20240126T111627Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240126T121605Z UID:10000109-1708596000-1708608600@www.biomassconnect.org SUMMARY:Field to Furnace - Visit to Western Bioenergy Power Station DESCRIPTION:Field to Furnace – Visit to Western Bioenergy Power Station\nWestern Bioenergy\, Port Talbot\, South Wales\n22nd February 2024\n \nThinking about growing Energy Crops ? Join us for an exclusive opportunity to explore the biomass energy supply chain with Western Bio Energy\, a leading company specialising in electricity generation from biomass. The event aims to provide insights into the entire supply chain\, from the field to the furnace\, and offers a unique tour of the power station. \nVenue:\nWestern Bio Energy Power Station\, Longland Lane\, Port Talbot\, Wales\, SA13 2NR \nAgenda:\n10:00 – 10:30: Registration and Coffee \n10:30 – 10:45: Biomass Connect Project Overview \n10:45 – 11:15: Land Use\, Economics\, and options for Biomass crops by Kevin Lindegaard\, Director\, Crops for Energy \n11:15 – 11:30: Western Bio Energy Procurement Process and Product Quality Insights by Rod Lerwell and Simon Thomas of Western Bio Energy \n11:30 – 12:30: Guided Tour of the Power Station \n1.00: Networking Lunch and Event Conclusion \nRegistration:\nTo secure your spot at this limited-capacity event\, please register here. \nNote: Due to health and safety restrictions\, attendance is limited to 25 visitors. Ensure to register promptly to secure your spot and gain valuable insights into the emerging biomass energy industry. \nWe would also point out that the site managers have asked that visitors wear suitable sturdy footwear for the tour around the plant. \nDon’t miss this opportunity to connect\, learn\, and explore the exciting developments in biomass energy with Western Bio Energy. We look forward to welcoming you on the 22nd of February! \n\n Register Here URL:https://www.biomassconnect.org/event/field-to-furnace-visit-to-western-bioenergy-power-station/ LOCATION:Western Bioenergy Power Station\, Longland Lane\, Port Talbot\, Wales\, SA13 2NR\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Demo Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.biomassconnect.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Western-Bio-Energy.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240215T160000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240215T170000 DTSTAMP:20260604T231130 CREATED:20231212T143441Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240202T180258Z UID:10000102-1708012800-1708016400@www.biomassconnect.org SUMMARY:Biomass Connect Webinar No. 8 DESCRIPTION:Managing fuel storage and drying to best practice quality standards \nBiomass crops produce high yields in a short period of time. However\, depending on the crop type and the end use there will be a myriad of ways to store and dry your material. You have to consider storage space\, logistics and economics and the end use specification. This webinar will provide information on the different options and how you can make sure you are producing the best quality biomass for your chosen market. It will also flag up important aspects of health and safety and legal obligations. The webinar will include two farmers who are using biomass crops in their boilers and will pass on their experience. \n \nOur Speakers will be Will Richardson\, Director of RDI Associates\, Jonathan Andrew\, a farmer from North Devon and David Christopher of Langaller Farm in Somerset. \nSpeakers:\n\nWill Richardson MICFor\, MSc\, BSc (Hons): RDIA Director \nA Member of the Institute of Chartered Foresters and Masters degree in Forest Management graduate from the University of Aberdeen\, Will has worked in the forest industry for over twenty-seven years in both the public and private sectors. He is currently involved in a number of work areas including over 10 years as an auditor for Woodsure and the BSL\, provision of management services to private land owners on forest management\, and woodland creation and research and consultancy on forest and biomass-industry related projects. \nCo-founder and Director of RDI Associates Ltd\, Will has a strong practical background in forestry and has held a variety of operational posts since 1990; forest nursery\, private estate forester\, forestry contractor\, director of a woodfuel producer group\, and Lantra Awards certified training course instructor. Will has in-depth knowledge of forest certification schemes having set up the UK’s first Grown in Britain chain of custody certification group and manages over 1500ha of woodlands under the UK Woodland Assurance Standard. \nJonathan Andrew \nMr Andrew is the owner of Umberleigh Barton Farm\, a mixed farm situated in North Devon. The farm has six residential properties\, two of which are occupied by Mr and Mrs Andrew and Mr Andrew’s parents\, whilst the other four are occupied by tenants. These are heated with a 130 kW biomass boiler which is accredited under the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI). Mr Andrew has been supplementing bought-in woodchip with home-grown SRC willlow\, grown on 4 hectares of his farm since 2019. \nDavid Christopher \nMr Christopher is the owner of Langaller Farm\, a family run farm in Dulverton\, Somerset covering around 40 hectares. The majority of the farm is covered by Miscanthus grass that was planted in 2006-2007. Since 2012\, Mr Christopher has been using Miscanthus chip as the primary fuel source in his 130 kW RHI accredited biomass boiler. This heats his farm house and barns containing 40\,000 indoor reared chickens. \n\n Register Here\n \n  URL:https://www.biomassconnect.org/event/biomass-connect-webinar-no-8/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:Webinar ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.biomassconnect.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Webinar8-Social-Media-Slide.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240118T160000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240118T170000 DTSTAMP:20260604T231130 CREATED:20231129T110357Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231129T142218Z UID:10000076-1705593600-1705597200@www.biomassconnect.org SUMMARY:Biomass Connect Webinar No. 7 DESCRIPTION:Maximising biodiversity in your Biomass crop plantation \nBiomass crops and their surrounds are brimming with life – birds\, bees\, butterflies and predatory arthropods all live in\, or on the edge and in the surrounds of these plantations. \nThis webinar will provide information on emerging research into understanding how to marry up yield productivity from these crops whilst incorporating simple measures (such as buffer strips and flower-rich grass margins) that increase the edge effect\, promote pollinators and maximise biodiversity net gain. There will be some information on recent Sustainable Farming Initiative (SFI) payment measures and what this means to growers of different biomass crops. \n \nOur Speakers will be Dr. Rebecca Rowe\, a terrestrial ecologist from the UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology (UKCEH) and Ed Drewitt\, a freelance naturalist. \nRebecca will cover topics such as the trends in biodiversity in UK farmland\, how biomass crops might help and which crops are the best from a biodiversity point of view. She’ll also cover current research projects and the grants available to biomass crop growers for biodiversity enhancement. \nEd will take a look at biomass plantations from the perspective of a naturalist\, investigating how birds and other animals use them\, how such plantations could be designed to increase biodiversity and how biomass plantations could contribute to protecting endangered species. \nSpeakers:\nRebecca Rowe (UK CEH)\nRebecca is interested in challenges associated with sustainable land-use and especially how we will meet future demands for food\, fibre and fuel whilst protecting the natural environment. Her research to date has focused on the impacts of land use change to bioenergy cropping on biodiversity\, soil carbon and ecosystem processes. \nEd Drewitt (Freelance Naturalist)\nEd Drewitt is a freelance naturalist\, showing people wildlife (especially in the Forest of Dean where he lives)\, training others to identify birds and their songs and completing wildlife surveys\, often on farmland. He is also a learning advisor\, developing learning resources and toolkits for wildlife organisations. Ed is a frequent contributor to wildlife films\, both behind the scenes and on camera. He has featured on BBC’s Springwatch\, The One Show\, BBC Breakfast and several shows for CBBC. He has also been studying urban-dwelling peregrines for 25 years and is currently doing a part-time PhD at the University of Bristol looking at what makes them tick.\nhttps://www.eddrewitt.co.uk/\n\n Register Here\n \n  URL:https://www.biomassconnect.org/event/biomass-connect-webinar-no-7/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:Webinar ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.biomassconnect.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Webinar7-Social-Media-Slide.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20231219T160000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20231219T170000 DTSTAMP:20260604T231130 CREATED:20231026T064612Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231117T085035Z UID:10000075-1703001600-1703005200@www.biomassconnect.org SUMMARY:Biomass Connect Webinar No. 6 DESCRIPTION:Biomass crops – some interesting alternatives #2 \nBlack Locust and Energy Canes\n \nSome biomass crops are more well known than others\, but it’s not all about Willow and Miscanthus as they can’t possibly be the best crop for all situations. There are many others to choose from and this webinar will delve into just two of the alternatives\, Black Locust and Energy Canes. \nMárton Németh (Silvanus Forestry) will talk about Black Locust\, a medium-sized tree native to the southern United States that is one of the most commonly planted commercial hardwood trees. It is fast growing producing large amounts of biomass which can be easily coppiced. Biomass Connect are growing varieties of Black Locust at all of our Hub Site trials. The tree produces high-density wood which can be harvested and produced into pellets with high energy content. Black Locust also has many other uses and benefits that will be discussed. \nPaul Carver (New Energy Farms) will give a presentation about Energy Canes. \nWith Kevin Lindegaard (Crops4Energy) steering the discussions\, the webinar promises to be an interesting and lively foray into these alternative biomass crops. \nSpeakers:\nMárton Németh – Silvanus Forestry\n \nMárton Németh is the Managing Director of Silvanus Group\, a family company originally established in 1980\, which has diversified into the research and development of fast-growing varieties more than 15 years ago. Márton graduated from Bocconi University in 2016 in International Economics\, Management and Finance and is currently finishing his master’s degree in Environmental Engineering at the University of Sopron. He has worked in the finance sector as well as the tech sector and now has more than 5 years of full-time experience in the biomass and industrial wood production industry. \nPaul Carver – New Energy Farms\n \nPaul has worked in perennial grass propagation\, production and scale up for the last 25 years\, in the EU\, North and South America. He co-founded New Energy Farms in 2009. \nNew Energy Farms is an agtech company\, operating in the area of regenerative agriculture\, providing long term feedstock crops with a high Environmental\, Social and Governance (ESG) profile. \n\n Register Here\n \n  URL:https://www.biomassconnect.org/event/biomass-connect-webinar-no-6/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:Webinar ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.biomassconnect.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Webinar6-Social-Media-Slide-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20231116T160000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20231116T170000 DTSTAMP:20260604T231130 CREATED:20230809T141836Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231102T104622Z UID:10000074-1700150400-1700154000@www.biomassconnect.org SUMMARY:Biomass Connect Webinar No. 5 DESCRIPTION:Biomass Crops and Water Management\nFast-growing biomass crops can play a part as a toolkit measure in water quality protection from diffuse agricultural pollution as well as managing point source discharges such as those from rural waste water treatment works\, agri-food processing\, septic tanks and even leachates from landfill sites. More recently these crops are finding a role for waste water management in contained Zero Discharge systems for individual houses and hamlets in parts of the country where such containment is deemed necessary. Furthermore\, biomass crops can play a role in flood mitigation (stemming the flow of water and stopping large objects floating downstream and blocking culverts). This potentially allows these crops to enable people more time to prepare for a flood event and leads to a reduction in the economic impact and threat to life. This webinar explores the opportunities and the obstacles to harnessing this potential. \n \nOnce registered\, use the button below to join on the day. \n\n Registered Participants Join Here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \nSpeakers:\nChris Johnston – AFBI\nChris joined AFBI in 2012 where he is Project Leader in Environment & Renewable Energy research. Whilst the research programme that he manages is within the Agri-Environment Branch\, he is based at AFBI Hillsborough in Northern Ireland where the majority of the facilities for Environment and Renewable energy reside. \nChris is also part of the Biomass Connect Project Management Team. \nNeil Watkins – Energy Crops Consultancy\n \nNeil Watkins\, one of the Founding Directors of Energy Crops Consultancy and an Independent Adviser on energy crops\, has nearly 10 years of experience in developing\, promoting and establishing energy crops – as well as innovating and undertaking a broader range of work within the biomass energy sector. \nNeil’s work has received national and international recognition\, through providing end markets\, farmers and landowners with a dedicated\, bespoke and personal service which the company continues to fulfil today. ECC has a fleet of its specialist planting and harvesting machinery which is available for all its customers uses. \nHis many years of experience include pioneering energy crop planting across the UK and successfully building one of the largest networks of energy crop growers in Europe. Hundreds of farmers and landowners have been guided by his expertise from start to finish in land preparation\, planting\, crop management and harvesting\, all the way to drying and selling the finished wood chip product. His knowledge and experience is second-to-none in this fast-moving industry. \n\n Register Here\n \n  URL:https://www.biomassconnect.org/event/biomass-connect-webinar-no-5/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:Webinar ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.biomassconnect.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Webinar5-Social-Media-Slide-3.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20231102T093000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20231102T133000 DTSTAMP:20260604T231130 CREATED:20230823T152053Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231026T143635Z UID:10000077-1698917400-1698931800@www.biomassconnect.org SUMMARY:Biomass Connect Demo - SRUC Ayrshire - Biomass in a Northern Climate DESCRIPTION:Biomass in a Northern Climate\nAuchincruive\, Ayr\, KA6 5HW\nWhat 3 Words: ///tasks.proven.notched \n2nd November 2023\n \n \nCome and join Biomass Connect and Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) for an opportunity to learn about growing biomass crops in a Northern Climate. \nThe event will focus on showcasing a range of biomass crops and discussions on the agronomy\, economics\, and environmental impacts of different biomass crops. There will be a guided crop tour to view various biomass crops planted at the Biomass Connect Hub site\, Auchincruive estate. We are also holding an event the day before (1st November) at Boghall near Edinburgh. Feel free to join us for both and compare the two hub sites. If doing so please register for the two events separately so that we cater accordingly. \nAll are welcome – please register to book a place. We look forward to seeing you there! \nProgramme\n09.30 Convene\, tea & coffee \n10.00 Introduction and talks \n\nBiomass Connect\, introduction and overview – Nana Afranaa Kwapong\, IBERS\, Aberystwyth\nGrowing biomass crops in the Northern Climate – Kevin Lindegaard\, Crops for energy\nEucalyptus Short Rotation Forestry – Bryan Elliot\, Eucalyptus Renewables\nWorking with Biomass Crops – Josephine Sweden (SRUC)\n\n11.00 Crop tour: field walk \n\nBiomass connect hub site where we’ll visit the trials that are currently growing at the Ayrshire Hub Site:\n\nBlack Locust ‘Turbo’ and Black Locust ‘Turbo Obelisk\,\nSRF Alder\nSRF Eucalyptus\nSRF and SRC Poplar\nSRC Willow\nMiscanthus Giganteus\n\n\nBiomass crop options\n\n12.30 Q & A – Wrap up\, final thoughts \n13.00 Lunch/networking \n\n Register Here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \nCrop Tour Route\n \n  URL:https://www.biomassconnect.org/event/biomass-connect-demo-sruc-ayrshire-biomass-in-a-northern-climate/ LOCATION:SRUC Ayrshire\, SAC Consulting Office\, JF Niven Building\, Auchincruive\, Ayrshire\, KA6 5HW\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Demo Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.biomassconnect.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Ayrshire-Demo-Slide.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20231101T093000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20231101T133000 DTSTAMP:20260604T231130 CREATED:20230824T073016Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231026T143700Z UID:10000078-1698831000-1698845400@www.biomassconnect.org SUMMARY:Biomass Connect Demo - SRUC Edinburgh - Biomass in a Northern Climate DESCRIPTION:Biomass in a Northern Climate\nSRUC Boghall Farm\, Edinburgh. EH10 7DX\nWhat 3 Words: ///passwords.exposing.spouse \n1st November 2023\n \n \nCome and join Biomass Connect and Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) for an opportunity to learn about growing biomass crops in a Northern Climate. \nThe event will focus on showcasing a range of biomass crops and discussions on the agronomy\, economics\, and environmental impacts of different biomass crops. There will be a guided crop tour to view various biomass crops planted at the Biomass Connect Hub site\, SRUC Boghall Farm\, Edinburgh. We are also holding an event the day after (2nd November) at Auchincruive\, Ayrshire. Feel free to join us for both and compare the two hub sites. If doing so please register for the two events separately so that we cater accordingly. \nAll are welcome – please register to book a place. We look forward to seeing you there! \nProgramme\n09.30 Convene\, tea & coffee \n10.00 Introduction and talks \n\nBiomass Connect\, introduction and overview – Dr Jeanette Whitaker\, UKCEH\nEucalyptus Short Rotation Forestry – Bryan Elliot\, Eucalyptus Renewables\nWorking with Biomass Crops – Josephine Sweden (SRUC)\n\n11.00 Crop tour: field walk \n\nBiomass Connect hub site where we’ll visit the trials that are currently growing at the Boghall Hub Site:\n\nBlack Locust ‘Turbo’ and Black Locust ‘Turbo Obelisk’\,\nSRF Alder\nSRF Eucalyptus\nSRF and SRC Poplar\nSRC Willow and the Willow Varieties Trial\nMiscanthus Giganteus and the Miscanthus Varieties Trial\nSida\n\n\nBiomass crop options\n\n12.30 Q & A – Wrap up\, final thoughts \n13.00 Lunch/networking \n\n Register Here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \nCrop Tour Route\n \n  URL:https://www.biomassconnect.org/event/biomass-connect-demo-sruc-edinburgh-biomass-in-a-northern-climate/ LOCATION:SRUC Edinburgh\, Boghall Farm\, Bush Estate\, Biggar Road\, Edinburgh\, EH10 7DX\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Demo Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.biomassconnect.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Boghall-Demo-Slide.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20231026T100000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20231026T133000 DTSTAMP:20260604T231130 CREATED:20230803T143857Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230927T091116Z UID:10000072-1698314400-1698327000@www.biomassconnect.org SUMMARY:Biomass Connect Demo - Terravesta - Miscanthus Establishment and Cultivation DESCRIPTION:Miscanthus Establishment and Cultivation – Demonstration event\nTerravesta\, Grovefields Farm\, Hampton Lucy\, Warwickshire. CV35 8AT\n26th October 2023\n \n \nCome and join Biomass Connect with Terravesta Ltd for a morning learning about miscanthus crop cultivation and establishment at Grovefields Farm in Warwickshire. \nThe event will focus on research into approaches for establishment and cultivation of miscanthus crops\, and an overview of the research undertaken by Terravesta and partners as part of the ‘Optimising Miscanthus Establishment through improved mechanisation and data capture to meet Net Zero targets (OMENZ)’ project. \nThis will also include insight into the application of drone technology and machinery needed for miscanthus growing\, and a soil core demonstration to highlight below-ground biomass potential. \nAll are welcome – please register to book a place. We look forward to seeing you there! \nProgramme\n10:00   Convene\, tea & coffee and some light snacks \n10:30 Introduction and talks \n\nBiomass Connect\, introduction and overview – Dr Will Stiles\, IBERS\nOverview of Terravesta OMENZ and the challenges surrounding miscanthus establishment – Terravesta Ltd\nCranfield Talk.\nDrone technology and application for biomass crops: how does remote sensing work?\n\n11:30 Crop tour: field walk\, including: \n\nDrone demonstration\nSoil core – rhizome visualisation\nCultivation machinery overview (planter\, forager\, baler)\n\n12:30 Q & A – Wrap up\, questions\, final thoughts \n13:00 Buffet style lunch/networking\n\n Register Here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n  URL:https://www.biomassconnect.org/event/biomass-connect-demo-terravesta-miscanthus-establishment-and-cultivation/ LOCATION:Grovefields Farm\, Grovefields Farm\, Hampton Lucy\, Warwickshire\, CV35 8AT\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Demo Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.biomassconnect.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Terravesta-Demo-Slide-2-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20230914T133000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20230914T170000 DTSTAMP:20260604T231130 CREATED:20230629T122826Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230809T082425Z UID:10000068-1694698200-1694710800@www.biomassconnect.org SUMMARY:Biomass Connect Demo - North Wyke - Biomass Crops and Agroforestry DESCRIPTION:Biomass Crops and Agroforestry – Demonstration event\nGrassland Research Institute\, North Wyke\, Okehampton EX20 2SB\n14th September 2023\n \n \nCome and join Biomass Connect and Rothamsted Research for an afternoon learning about biomass crops and their potential for integration into existing farm operations\, as an agroforestry option. \nThe event will focus on research into effective agroforestry systems and will consider how biomass crop options can be utilised for dual-crop benefit. This will include a showcase of a range of biomass crops and how these can be used as a diversification option to improve farm business efficiency. \nAll are welcome – please register to book a place. We look forward to seeing you there! \nProgramme\n13:30   Convene\, tea & coffee \n14:00 Introduction and talks \n\nBiomass Connect – introduction and overview\nAgroforestry research at Rothamsted\nBiomass crop options and their agronomy\n\n15:00 Crop tour: field walk\, including: \n\nBiomass Connect hub site overview\nAgroforestry trials\nBiomass crop walks\n\n16:00 Q & A – Wrap up\, final thoughts \n16.30 Tea/networking \n\n Register Here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n  \nHOW TO FIND US:\nNorth Wyke\, Okehampton\, Devon. EX20 2SB \nwhat3words: ///roadshow.bandstand.chefs \nBy Road\nNote: It is not advisable to use your sat-nav for your journey to North Wyke by car. \nFrom the East Leave M5 at Junction 31 and follow ‘A30 (Okehampton )’ dual carriageway. After 16 miles\, take the exit signposted ‘A382 Moretonhampstead’ and after 500 metres turn right onto the A3124 previously B3219) – signposted ‘North Tawton’. After crossing over the dual carriageway\, there is a Lorry Route sign turning left. Stay on this minor road\, cross over at Spitlar Cross and after approx 2 miles you will find North Wyke on your right. \nFor an alternate route for cars\, stay on the A3124 for 2 – 3 miles\, turn left signposted North Wyke/South Tawton and then right at the first crossroads (Spitlar Cross). North Wyke can be found on the right-hand side approximately 2 miles along this road. \nFrom Okehampton (Please note this route is not suitable for large coaches or HGV Vehicles) take the B3215 (next to the Police Station) left at the traffic lights to Crediton\, follow this road for 5 miles\, take a right just before the old railway bridge signposted North Wyke. Follow this road\, after 0.5 miles you come to a small humpback bridge. Cross over this bridge and continue along the road for 1 mile until you come to Rothamsted Research on your left\, take the last entrance past the lodge to the car park. \nOn arrival at North Wyke please follow the sign for Cars Only. This will take you to the main car park. The event venue will be signed from there. \n  URL:https://www.biomassconnect.org/event/north-wyke-demo/ LOCATION:North Wyke\, Grassland Research Institute\, North Wyke\, Okehampton\, Devon\, EX20 2SB CATEGORIES:Demo Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.biomassconnect.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/North-Wyke-Demo-Slide-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20230811T100000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20230811T140000 DTSTAMP:20260604T231130 CREATED:20230628T113923Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230801T071846Z UID:10000067-1691748000-1691762400@www.biomassconnect.org SUMMARY:Biomass Connect Demo - Biomass Crops and Diversification DESCRIPTION:Biomass Crops and Diversification – Demonstration event\nCockle Park Farm\, Newcastle University\, Morpeth\, Northumberland\, NE61 3EA.\n11th August 2023\n \nCome and join Biomass Connect with Newcastle University\, supported by the National Innovation Centre for Rural Enterprise (NICRE) for an opportunity to learn about biomass crops options\, agroforestry\, and diversification options at Newcastle. \nThe event will focus on an overview of the research into SRC willow\, poplar\, and other biomass crops at Newcastle University Cockle Park farm. There will be a guided crop tour to view various biomass crops and discussions on the agronomy\, economics\, and environmental impacts of different biomass crops and diversification options. \nAll are welcome – please register to book a place. We look forward to seeing you there! \nProgramme\n10:00 Convene\, tea & coffee \n10:30 Introduction and talks \n\nBiomass Connect – introduction and overview – Dr Will Stiles\, IBERS\nMultifunctional landscapes\nOverview of Newcastle University Agroforestry Trial\n\n11:30 Crop tour: field walk\, including: \n\nAgroforestry demo plots\nBiomass Connect hub site\n\n12:30 Q & A – Wrap up\, final thoughts \n13:00 Lunch/networking\n\n Register Here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n  \nImportant information \nGetting to Cockle Park Farm:\nBy car: Postcode is NE61 3EB if you’re using a sat-nav or route planner. \nWhat three words: ///rinsed.swordfish.bleaker \nBy train: The nearest local train station to Cockle Park is Morpeth. A taxi from Morpeth to Cockle Park will take around 10 minutes. \nParking\nYour vehicle must be left at the entrance to the farm\, outside the reception. \nNote:\n\nPlease bring along appropriate footwear\, and waterproofs (depending upon the weather)\nWe shall be providing tea/coffee and lunch. If you have any dietary requirements\, kindly let us know.\nPlease read the information booklet for visitors to Cockle Park Farm https://online.flippingbook.com/view/4367860/6/\n\nWe look forward to welcoming you to the demo event. \n  URL:https://www.biomassconnect.org/event/newcastle-demo/ LOCATION:Cockle Park Farm\, Cockle Park Farm\, Morpeth\, Northumberland\, NE61 3EA\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Demo Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.biomassconnect.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Newcastle-Demo-Slide-1-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20230323T160000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20230323T170000 DTSTAMP:20260604T231130 CREATED:20230220T120932Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230322T094729Z UID:10000033-1679587200-1679590800@www.biomassconnect.org SUMMARY:Biomass Connect Webinar No. 4 DESCRIPTION:The Regs – How to play by the rules when planting and using biomass crops\nBefore you plant perennial crops or use the biomass in a combustion system you need to get your head around the legal nitty gritty. Whether it’s environmental screening\, sustainability criteria\, emissions thresholds or production quality protocols\, there is quite a lot of red tape to navigate. Before embarking on a project\, it’s essential to recognise what’s involved and understand the costs and timescales. This webinar will provide you with all the knowledge you need to stay on the right side of the regs. \n \nOnce registered\, use the button below to join on the day. \n\n Registered Participants Join Here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \nSpeakers:\n \nCaroline Ayre – Evolving Forests\n\n\nCaroline is a Chartered Forester with 26 years of forestry and wood supply chain experience. Caroline started her career supporting the southwest woodland supply chain and stimulating market demand for local wood products and woodfuel. Since then she has been the England Manager for the Confederation of Forest Industries with representational and director roles at the UK and national level. \nShe has specialised in forestry\, timber and land use policy and tree health risk and management planning. Her focus remains working with businesses to grow the homegrown timber industry through supply chain innovation and resource resilience. \n\n\n \nGill Alker – Amp Clean Energy\nGill has worked in Biomass and Bioenergy since 2000\, after graduating with a PhD in Environmental Engineering from Imperial College.  Her early career was involved in wood fuel and energy crop supply and she helped set up and run a wood fuel trading company (TV Bioenergy) and an SRC producer group (TV Bioenergy Coppice) which jointly won an Ashton Award in 2005.  In 2012\, she joined Anesco and helped to set up a number of wood fuel energy supply contracts (ESCos).  Providing free green heating systems in return for a monthly heat payment was pioneering at the time and she was involved in early stage contract development\, design\, planning permission\, RHI applications\, installation\, operation and maintenance aspects.  \nIn 2014\, Gill joined Forest Fuels Ltd which later became AMP Clean Energy.  Her main role has been to provide consultancy advice to their 2000+ fuel clients on many different aspects of biomass heating.  This includes advice about RHI applications\, planning permission\, environmental permitting\, fuel quality etc.  This requires an in depth understanding of the various regulations and guidance and also involves contributing to the development of that regulation\, by submitting consultation responses and attending government briefings.  More recently\, she has been involved in helping to manage the c.200 biomass asset portfolio that are owned by AMP Clean Energy and is responsible for making sure that those systems are compliant with all the various compliance requirements.  \n  \n\n Register Here\n \n  URL:https://www.biomassconnect.org/event/biomass-connect-webinar-no-4/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:Webinar ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.biomassconnect.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Webinar4-Social-Media-Slide.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20230223T160000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20230223T170000 DTSTAMP:20260604T231130 CREATED:20230119T140423Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230322T085053Z UID:10000029-1677168000-1677171600@www.biomassconnect.org SUMMARY:Biomass Connect Webinar No. 3 DESCRIPTION:Biomass Crops – Some Interesting Alternatives\nSome biomass crops are bigger and leave a greater impression than others whilst others might be  humbler but still get the job done. Eucalyptus trees can produce exceptional yields of hardwood timber when the right species is planted in the right place. There are plenty of options with numerous species that can thrive with everything the UK climate can throw at them. Reed Canary Grass is at the other end of the spectrum – this is a short term\, lower yielding perennial that is cheap to establish and easy to remove making it a perfect energy crop for a tenant farmer. Our panel includes environmental farmer John Hawkins and expert silviculturalist Bryan Elliott.  \n\n Register Here\n \n \n \n \n \n \nOnce registered\, use the button below to join on the day. \n Registered Participants Join Here\n \n \n \n \n \n \n   \nSpeakers: \nJohn Hawkins \nJohn Hawkins – Bagber Farms – Farmer\nJohn is a third generation tenant arable farmer in Mid Dorset. He grew up on the farm but then after a BSc in Maritime Studies was commissioned into the Royal Navy. Later he travelled extensively as a security consultant which gave him an insight into global problems issues and solutions before realising that there is no place like home. In a period of agricultural change his primary initial role on the farm was to look for ways to diversify the business to support the families involved. This led to planting a 5000 tree cherry orchard (agroforestry) and committing 10 years to adding value to his fruit. The organic knowledge and steep learning curve in horticulture then paved the way to take over as Managing Partner of the Business 6 years ago within the background of 10 years min till arable rotation. 4 years ago using support from Mid Tier CS and Wessex Water and other complementary systems he turned his whole farm into a giant experiment (a sort of shot in the dark pre policy pre ELM’s trial) to see if Regenerative Agriculture was a viable alternative to intensive production whilst still seeing if he could grow food and energy crops more sustainably. Reed Canary Grass was a catalyst for this change and  initially grown on contract. It has been trialled on farm for 7 years now. Current themes include using Soil Carbon increases to maximise Nitrogen efficiency on farm especially with Perennial Crops with a Biomass.. Everything is driven by a practical observation of Science and tested rigourously to compare it to previous arable rotations within the confines of a rented farm. \nBryan Elliot \nBryan Elliott\nManaging Director of Eucalyptus Renewables. Bryan has developed an innovative silviculturally based\, UK company\, that is focussed on delivering an expertise in developing a UK wood supply chain through growing crops of various targeted Eucalyptus species.  \nEucalyptus Renewables are involved with various BEIS projects delivering establishment\, and silvicultural protocols with a sole objective of creating a thriving and sustainable timber crop. The existing annual yield of Eucalyptus fibre is currently expanding with around half a million Eucalyptus trees successfully established throughout UK over the last four years. SRF Timber harvesting operations will initiate between 4 and 6 years of age thinnings\, with rotation lengths between 8 and 25 years dependent upon timber objective strategy.  \n\n \n Register Here\n \n  URL:https://www.biomassconnect.org/event/biomass-connect-webinar-no-3/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:Webinar ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.biomassconnect.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Webinar3-Social-Media-Slide-2.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20230119T163000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20230119T173000 DTSTAMP:20260604T231130 CREATED:20221216T084720Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230117T140547Z UID:10000020-1674145800-1674149400@www.biomassconnect.org SUMMARY:Biomass Connect Webinar No. 2 DESCRIPTION:Emerging Markets for Biomass Crops\nPerennial crops like willow\, miscanthus and poplar were once simply termed energy crops. This is no longer the case. The versatility\, quick growth and high yields means that these crops are now being considered for all sorts of other uses including pharmaceuticals\, bio-packaging\, bio-composites\, fodders and forages and biochar. R&D efforts are also pushing the potential for cascading several uses for different components of the same crop – the so-called biorefinery approach. These are really exciting times for biomass. This webinar will provide the latest news on emerging markets for biomass crops. \n \n Register Here\n \n \n \n \n \n Once registered\, use the button below to join on the day. \n \n Registered Participants Join Here\n \n \n \n \n \n Speakers:\nWilliam Cracroft-Eley \nWilliam Cracroft-Eley  – Terravesta\nWilliam Cracroft-Eley is the Chairman of Terravesta\, the UKs largest miscanthus company. He has been growing Miscanthus on his Lincolnshire farm for 20 years. The company is involved in all aspects of cultivation\, management\, harvesting\, processing and marketing of Miscanthus. Terravesta are currently engaged in the BFI-funded Omenz project which stands for ‘Optimising Miscanthus Establishment through improved mechanisation and data capture to meet Net Zero targets’. \nOMENZ will deliver improvements on the entire Miscanthus establishment process\, including approaches to producing planting material\, field preparation\, innovative agri-tech\, new planting techniques\, and cutting-edge technologies to monitor establishment in the field. \nJ J Leahy \nProf. J J Leahy – University of Limerick\nProf J J Leahy is currently an associate professor  in the Dept of Chemical Sciences at the University of Limerick where he is involved in teaching\, curriculum development and research in the area of  waste management and renewable energy.   He currently heads a research group consisting of chemists and chemical engineers that is focused on chemical technologies for biofuels and biorefining  from wastes. \nProf Leahy currently is leading the BioWILL project\, an Interreg NWE funded project focusing on Integrated “Zero Waste” Biorefinery utilising all fractions of Willow feedstock for the production of high value salicylates from willow bark for medical applications\, safe\, food quality packaging material to replace fossil derived plastics\, a feedstock in an innovative bio-energy anaerobic digestion system producing biogas and natural fertilisers. \n \n Register Here URL:https://www.biomassconnect.org/event/webinar-2/ LOCATION:Online ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.biomassconnect.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Webinar2-Flyer-For-Web.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20221215T163000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20221215T173000 DTSTAMP:20260604T231130 CREATED:20221122T144506Z LAST-MODIFIED:20221209T140653Z UID:10000013-1671121800-1671125400@www.biomassconnect.org SUMMARY:Biomass Connect Webinar No.1 DESCRIPTION:Land preparation – starting off on the right foot\nEnsuring that your land is prepared to a high standard is absolutely critical if you are to ensure long term success of your biomass crop. When you plant you are making a 20-year decision. It is important to avoid haste\, and to ensure proper implementation. This could otherwise lead to poor establishment\, gappy plots\, lost yield and reduced income. This webinar will provide the necessary ‘need-to-know’ information on what to do when to ensure success during the establishment phase. \n  \n \n Register Here\n \n \n \n \n \n Speakers:\nMike Cooper \nMike Cooper – Miscanthus Nursery Ltd\nOriginating from a farming family\, Mike spent 32 out of his 50 years of continued employment with one Agricultural merchanting company as a highly committed manager with a good understanding of commercial Agricultural and the ability to build strong relationships in the industry. \nGrowing perennial energy crops in support of annual food crops has interested Mike since 1984 when one of the first Miscanthus and SRC trial plots was planted in Devon and run by Jon Harvey head agronomist with the Ministry of Agriculture at Starcross Devon. \nSince 2009 Mike has been running Miscanthus Nursery Ltd (MNL)\, growing some c2000 acres of Miscanthus and consulting on a further c3000 acres. MNL is a Grower Cooperative owned & operated by a group of Farmers who understand the importance of this crop in supporting environmental Agriculture and climate change. \nNeil Watkins \nNeil Watkins – Energy Crops Consultancy Limited (ECCL)\nNeil Watkins is Managing Director of Energy Crops Consultancy Limited (ECCL) and an Independent Adviser on energy crops. In ECCL Neil has formed a company which can carry out all aspects of biomass production from site and variety selection\, through planting\, growing and harvesting carried out by an in house team and equipment  as well as marketing of final product.  He has over 15 years’ experience in establishing\, promoting\, and developing markets for energy crops working with hundreds of landowners and growers.  He is a proven innovator and has actively participated in varied research projects covering all aspects of the biomass energy sector. Neil has been a member of several working groups influencing and advising government policy\, and his knowledge and experience\, particularly in Short Rotation Coppice production is recognised both nationally and internationally. \n  \n \n Register Here URL:https://www.biomassconnect.org/event/biomass-connect-webinar-1/ LOCATION:Online ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.biomassconnect.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Webinar-1-Poster.jpg END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR