Farm Clusters and Farmer Collaboration - with Mel Bradley and Ben Mortimer

For this episode we’re talking about farm clusters, what they are, how they work and the benefits for farmers. We’re also talking about the benefits of collaboration generally. Farm Clusters have become increasingly popular recently with dozens now in existence across the country. In short, a farm cluster is a collaborative network of farmers, landowners, and sometimes agricultural stakeholders in a specific geographic area, with members working together to achieve shared goals, often related to conservation, resource management, and sustainable farming practices.Host Peter Green is joined by Mel Bradley who works with various groups in the regenerative space and has 15 years of experience in bringing people together and building networks, including helping to deliver south west farming event Rootstock; and Ben Mortimer, a Devon farmer and Chair of the Kenn Valley farm cluster group. Farming Focus is the podcast for farmers in the South West of England, but is relevant for farmers outside of the region or indeed anyone in the wider industry or who has an interest in food and farming. For more information on Cornish Mutual visit cornishmutual.co.ukFor our podcast disclaimer click here. If you'd like to send us an email you can contact us at [email protected]:15 Peter introduces the episode.01:53 Mel introduces herself.03:22 Ben talks about farm clusters and explains what they are. 04:17 Kenn Valley - Ben talks more about it and the diversity of farming there.06:05 Mel has worked with many groups in regenerative farming - what are the benefits of collaborating. 08:22 Are there particular goals that clusters tend to focus on or is there room for flexibility?10:00 How long has Kenn Valley been going? - around a year.10:33 Common barriers to collaboration. 12:15 How events like Rootstock can be a spark for collaboration?13:49 What leadership lessons has Ben learned from managing a group of farmers?15:29 The importance of relationships. 16:35 The future for farm clusters18:55 Actions for listeners - how can you get involved or start a cluster? What advice would our guests give?21:21 Showstoppers22:42 Peter rounds up.