Shropshire Farming Talk: Baselining - using environmental data to future-proof British agriculture
After much anticipation, AHDB’s environmental baselining pilot is now in full swing.
This landmark project aims to provide an unparalleled understanding of the environmental impact of British farming.
With support from Quality Meat Scotland, 170 farms across England, Scotland, and Wales have been selected to represent the breadth of farming systems and landscapes in the UK.
The pilot began in December 2024 with LiDAR (light detection and ranging) scanning. By using aircraft and drones to map terrain and above-ground features like hedges and trees, LiDAR (when translated) provides detailed data carbon storage and identifies areas prone to surface runoff.
This is the first time LiDAR has been used at such scale and resolution within British agriculture, marking a significant step forward in environmental measurement.
In early 2025, soil carbon and nutrient measurements will follow. This process will measure soil carbon and density down to one metre or the C-horizon and will also measure nutrients and pH levels.
These measurements are pivotal in determining the soil’s carbon storage capacity and its potential for improvement.
The ultimate goal is not just data collection but action. From May, participating farms will receive carbon audits and action plans giving each farm a clear picture of their environmental impact. These audits will highlight strengths and identify areas for improvement.
The long-term ambition is to establish a standardised, nationwide dataset for beef, lamb, cereals, oilseeds, dairy, and pork production. This robust data set will enhance the industry’s credibility, improve net carbon reporting, and provide a clearer picture of farming’s environmental impact.
This project, which involves beef, lamb, dairy, pork, cereals and oilseeds producers farming on a wide range of soil types, bolstered by additional funding from QMS, is about more than just the 170 farms involved. It’s about laying the groundwork for a resilient, sustainable future for British agriculture.
To keep updated on the progress of the pilot, visit ahdb.org.uk/baselining
by Chris Gooderham, AHDB Environment Director
