Top UK miller concerned that farmers overlooking oat contracts

One of the UKs largest oat millers has expressed concern that farmers are rushing to sow oilseed rape as a break crop, and overlooking oats. Moez Karsan, managing director of Bedfordshire-based European Oat Millers, says rape acreages, already at record levels, could expand further this year thanks to an early start to the harvest.

World production of oats has fallen over time but consumption has stayed fairly constant, which means there are opportunities on offer for oats that shouldnt be ignored, says Mr Karsan.  For example, we can offer Conservation Grade oat contracts, sold under the Nature Friendly Farming banner, at 11 per tonne over wheat futures.  Growers need to put 10 per cent of their farm usually the least productive areas into specific wildlife habitats, but many are already doing this as part of ELS or HLS schemes so growing Conservation oats just doubles up on the benefits.

To find out more about Conservation oat contracts on offer for next season, speak to Shelley Abbott on 01767 319465 or go to www.conservationgrade.org.

 

The Conservation Grade protocol was first developed in 1985 and has since evolved into an internationally recognised independent sustainable farming standard, operating in five countries on over 60,000 acres and certifying produce ranging from milling wheat to lettuce.