Biofarm at Groundswell 2026

BNG on a Working Farm: Opportunity, reality and long-term commitment.

Biodiversity Net Gain is attracting growing interest from farmers and landowners. But where does it fit within a working farm business?

Two sessions · Wed 1 & Thu 2 July, 12.00–12.45pm · Pasture Field, Stand D6

ON THE AGENDA

What we’ll discuss

Biodiversity Net Gain is creating new opportunities for farmers and landowners, but it’s also raising important questions.

Where does BNG fit within a productive farm or estate? How does it compare with other diversification opportunities? What are the long-term commitments? And how do you balance commercial returns with the practical realities of managing land for nature?

Join Biofarm for an honest, practical discussion exploring the opportunities, challenges and long-term realities of BNG on working land.

Bringing together leading voices from farming, landownership, policy, nature recovery and habitat management, the panel will share different perspectives, real-world experience and practical insights to help landowners make informed decisions about whether BNG is the right fit for their land and business.

Whether you’re already exploring BNG or simply want to understand where it sits within the future of rural land management, you’ll leave with a clearer understanding of the opportunities, the risks and the questions every landowner should be asking.

01
Where BNG fits within a working farm business
02
The opportunities and limitations of BNG
03
Lessons from landowners already involved in projects
04
How BNG compares to other diversification options
05
Long-term management, stewardship and commitment
06
Your questions, answered live by the panel

THE PANEL

Leading voices across farming, land & nature recovery

Hosted by Chris Rowland-Smith, Land Manager at Biofarm. Across the two days, panel members include:

Martin Lines

CEO, Nature Friendly Farming Network

Farmer, industry leader and one of the UK's most influential voices on the future of sustainable farming.

Stephen Panks

Senior Specialist, BNG, Natural England

Bringing insight into the policy, delivery and practical realities of BNG.

Vicki Hird

Strategic Lead – Agriculture, The Wildlife Trusts

Author, campaigner and leading advocate for nature-friendly farming and land management.

Toby Diggens

Founder & Co-Director, Digg & Co.

Landscape restoration specialist experienced in creating and restoring species-rich habitats.

Edward Hutley

Landowner

Sharing first-hand experience of exploring and adopting BNG on his own land — the decisions, opportunities and challenges.

Ed Green

Farmer and Landowner

Offering a practical farming perspective on managing land in a changing rural economy.

Simon Nash

Head of Habitat Management, Biofarm

Habitat restoration specialist delivering and managing biodiversity projects across the UK.

COME ALONG

Who should attend?

  • Farmers
  • Landowners
  • Estate managers
  • Rural advisers
  • Anyone exploring BNG, natural capital or land diversification opportunities

Visit Biofarm at Groundswell

Find us in Pasture Field, Stand D6 throughout the event. Drop by to discuss your land, meet the team and join us for sundowners from 5pm each day with complimentary refreshments.

Wednesday 1 & Thursday 2 July · 12.00pm

Reserve your place

Spaces for each session are limited. Secure your seat for the panel discussion at Groundswell 2026.