Biofarm at Groundswell 2026 · Panel Session

BNG on a Working Farm: Opportunity, Reality & Long-Term Commitment

📅 Wed 1 & Thu 2 July 🕐 12.00pm – 12.45pm 📍 Pasture Field, Stand D6

Overview

An open discussion on the realities of BNG in practice

Biodiversity Net Gain is attracting growing interest from farmers and landowners. But where does it fit within a working farm business? Join Biofarm and a panel of leading voices from farming, policy, nature recovery and land management.

Speakers

The panel

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

ML

Martin Lines

CEO, Nature Friendly Farming Network

One of the UK’s most influential voices on the future of sustainable farming.

SP

Stephen Panks

Senior Specialist, BNG, Natural England

Insight into the policy, delivery and practical realities of BNG.

VH

Vicki Hird

Strategic Lead – Agriculture, The Wildlife Trusts

Author, campaigner and advocate for nature-friendly farming.

TD

Toby Diggens

Founder & Co-Director, Digg & Co.

Landscape restoration specialist in species-rich habitats.

EH

Edward Hurley

Landowner

First-hand experience of exploring and adopting BNG on his own land.

EG

Ed Green

Farmer and Landowner

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

SN

Simon Nash

Head of Habitat Management, Biofarm

Delivering and managing biodiversity projects across the UK.

On the agenda

What we’ll discuss

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

Come along

Who should attend?

  • Farmers
  • Landowners
  • Estate managers
  • Rural advisers
  • Anyone exploring BNG, natural capital or land diversification opportunities
Pasture Field · Stand D6

Visit Biofarm at Groundswell

Find us throughout the event to discuss your land, meet the team and join us for sundowners from 5pm each day with complimentary refreshments. Reserve your seat for the panel using the button in the agenda.