As the Senior Portfolio Leader for Development in Gwynedd Council, it is my pleasure once again to welcome you to a further issue of the MENTERRA newsletter.
This ambitious 3 year project is fast drawing to a close and it is by now pleasing to see the innovative research work undertaken bearing fruit. The yields of the initial trialled crops, Linseed, Naked Barley & Oats, Crambe,Camelina and Soft Fruits have, and continue to be researched for their various attributes. It is early days for the trials which commenced this spring with Exotic Mushrooms and Salicornia but it is evident from the articles within this newsletter that there is considerable interest in these products.
“Cash is King” and by now, based upon the information gathered from the research, considerable emphasis is being placed upon the importance of marketing the produce, with many contacts being developed. I look forward to the publication of the Product Packages which will be prepared over coming weeks as these will disseminate the information gathered and provide valuable support to the farmers who wish to diversify within the industry.
I make no appologies for reiterating that a thriving agriculture industry is essential to sustain a strong economy and community in our rural areas and the success of this verture, with the willing co-operation of many Gwynedd farmers proves that the will to venture lives on in an industry which continues to face many challenges. Thank you for your contribution to the inovative culture within the County.
Councillor Dafydd Iwan
Portfolio Leader – Development
Gwynedd Counci
About the Project
MENTERRA was launched with the help of a £2.6 million funding package secured through Objective One, the Welsh Assembly Government, the Welsh Development Agency, University of Wales Bangor and Gwynedd Council.
A thriving agriculture industry is essential in order to sustain a strong economy and community in our rural areas. It is still one of Gwynedd’s main employment sectors, but in today’s economic climate it cannot stand still. The days of guaranteed prices and protecting the industry from foreign competition are over.
The effects of market liberalisation during the past few years has seen a sharp decline in commodity prices, that saw farmers taking drastic action. Some diversified, others left altogether. Gwynedd still depends on traditional products and will also remain vulnerable in a free market. That is why Gwynedd Council, in association with key partners, is promoting innovation in the county.
MENTERRA is managed and co-ordinated by Gwynedd Council. Two Agri-Enterprise Officers from Cymad will liaise with local farmers and businesses, whilst staff from the School of Science and Agriculture, University of Wales Bangor, will be undertaking scientific crop research and will be based at the new Innovation Centre, Henfaes. BIC Innovation, the New Product Development Specialists, will be responsible for surveying the market and commercialising new produce.
The project aims to co-operate with farmers in order to develop a number of new and pioneering initiatives; including laying the foundations for the development of processing facilities, so that Gwynedd’s economy can benefit from any developments.
Trialling Naked Oats and Linseed took place on 16 farms across Gwynedd. Soft fruits and exotic mushrooms are now being considered. MENTERRA is eager to hear from farmers who may be interested in trialling; and businesses that may have ideas about possible ventures.
For further information please contact the Agri-Enterprise Officers, John Roberts or Hazel Jones: (01766) 512300. |
