The NFU Cymru Montgomeryshire county branch held a very successful meeting in the Elephant and Castle, Newtown on September 29th, writes Huw Besent of the NFU.

There was a good turnout of members from all corners of the county with a range of issues discussed.

Gwawr Parry, our County Adviser, gave a comprehensive report on the latest NVZ situation and NFU Cymru’s efforts to have the matter heard in a court of law, which may take place in October.

Members expressed concern over the common practice of public utilities dumping raw sewage in rivers, especially when sewage plants cannot cope.

The practice of spreading sewage sludge on farmland was also questioned, and the potential for river pollution following such activities.

The proposals of Welsh Government to create a National Forest from the north to the south of Wales did not impress the membership, especially when this could occur on good farmland.

Members have no problem with planting trees, but they must be in the right place. It is questionable as to how much carbon trees sequestrate from the atmosphere when compared to good quality grassland, in that grass grows in my part of Wales for 11 months of the year. Also, animal manure feeds the soils, which is where carbon is locked up in a stable form.

Elizabeth Swancott from HCC then addressed the meeting, and spoke of work currently underway to create a ‘blueprint’ for enhancing the eating quality of Welsh lamb, which was very interesting. Hopefully a full report will come out next autumn when Covid has settled down.

We also welcomed the YFC County Chairman, Aled Jones and presented him with a cheque to help with their activities. Members wished the County Federation good luck with their programme and offered help should it be required.

Finally, elections for County Officeholders took place with all positions filled.

Richard Jones, Wern Ddu, Aberhafesp, will be our next County Chairman with Dafydd Parry Jones, Maesllwyni, Penegoes, as Vice Chairman. I wish them all well.