The field at the Research Farm with a tractor ploughing, stands and people are in the background

Farming and agricultural experts converge on Research Farm for conference

Last updated on 27 November 2024

The University of Leeds Research Farm has ploughed a new trail as a specialist events venue after receiving top marks from the organisers of a leading agricultural conference.

Agricultural experts and farmers from across the country travelled to the farm near Tadcaster for Tillage-Live, the UK’s largest cultivations event.

Organised by Agricultural Engineers Association (AEA), Tillage-Live is a crop-field demonstration that attracts industry-leading names such as John Deere, Horsch UK and Vaderstad and their associated dealerships, together with representation from a wide range of agricultural suppliers and technology providers.

Providing the ideal space 

What sets the event apart is the depth and breadth of the demonstration, covering all aspects of crop establishment.

The demonstration visitors the chance to watch multiple exhibitors in action across field-scale plots in one location at the same time.

With over 750 acres of land and state-of-the-art facilities, the site provided organisers with everything they needed to create a successful event.

Establishing the farm as an events venue

It is hoped that Tillage-Live will be the catalyst for more farming and agricultural conferences and events to be hosted at the farm.

Philip Dougill, Head of Asset Management at the University said: “We were keen to support our licensee farmers, Hartley Farming and farm managers Velcourt Ltd, when they brought the proposal to us to host Tillage-Live at the farm.

“The University has worked hard over the last four years to improve its facilities and is keen to continue to boost its profile as a model commercial farm acting as a platform for research and teaching.”

Kayleigh Holden, Event Organiser from the Agricultural Engineers Association said: “The Agricultural Engineers Association were delighted with the site and the cooperation of the University, farmers, and contractors to deliver the National Cultivations Demonstration in September.

“The combination of location, proximity to the national road network, soil type, layout and the on-site team all helped Tillage-Live to be a success.”

Find out more about the University of Leeds Research Farm.