October

Using the term ‘killing’ rather than ‘management’ would not be my choice when discussing the merits of removing one species to protect another. But I chose it here as it refers to the headings of two recent articles in the Guardian that demonstrate the value of control. Both epitomise the challenge that conservation has in addressing public values and attitudes towards the management of pests, invasive species and native predators.

The government has unveiled plans to secure continued access to essential pesticides for the country's farmers and growers. These plans, formulated in response to feedback from the farming industry, aim to provide stability, reduce input costs, and support resilient and profitable food production.

The UK government has announced the opening of the eighth round of the Countryside Stewardship Facilitation Fund on October 23, 2023

The newly launched Sustainable Futures Report 2023, published by the National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs (NFYFC), shares insights on how new entrants and next-generation farmers can overcome key barriers to working in the industry.