Farmers talk about innovation at Norfolk Farming Conference 2026  

David Webster, chief executive of Linking Environment and Farming (LEAF), has opened the conference, emphasising the importance of engaging the public with the farming issues.   

Mr Webster mentioned the Open Farm Sunday initiative, which this year celebrates its 20th anniversary. During the farm visits, the public can connect with farmers to discover their crucial work of producing food, nurturing nature, and protecting the environment for future generations.   

He continued: “Farmers have a powerful story to tell about stewardship, innovation and care for the land. But it must be told with purpose, honesty and integrity. Initiatives like Open Farm Sunday show what happens when the public is invited in rather than talked at.  

“Using our voice for positive change means being open about the challenges we face, explaining the trade-offs and showing how farming is adapting and improving. It also means listening carefully to others within the system and not dismissing them.”  

Mr Webster added that farmers are currently facing a moment of “real, profound choice.”  

“Not a choice between condition and change, but between the path of passive adaption or proactive ownership. The land will always reflect the decisions made upon it. If we invest in soils, skills, data, relationships and public trust, that investment will compound over time. If we disengage, others will step in.”  

The expert said that the encouraging reality is that many farmers are already showing that leadership and what it looks like, experimenting, collaborating, measuring outcomes and sharing learning openly.  

“That is how progress happens: steadily, collectively and with aligned purpose. So as this conference begins, my hope is that our conversations will remain today grounded, challenging and constructive,” he concluded.  

The speakers at the NFC include farmer and YouTuber Olly Harrison, Jeremy Moody of the Central Association of Agricultural Valuers (CAAV), Dr Johnny Wake of Courteenhall Farms, Jules Pretty OBE, professor at the University of Essex, and Ryan McCormack of Dennington Hall Farms.  

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