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35 AGRICULTURE EDITION OPENFIELD AGRICULTURE | Managing the risks Bringing these stores together to form regional partnerships is another example of where collaboration is helping to improve efficiency, reduce costs and realise greater value from working together rather than independently. Such endeavours require astute management and involve financial risk, but because the farmer members can see the benefit and understand that as the owners the rewards will flow to them, they are prepared to underwrite the investment. As the marketing agent, we are able to bring our members together with end-user consumers, who value this approach to grain procurement. As the supply-chain consolidates, the importance of such ventures in protecting farm incomes while maintaining security of supply becomes increasingly important, particularly when the vagaries of the UK weather impacts both farm yield and quality. Commodity markets are inherently volatile, and growers can experience significant price movements during the season. Managing this exposure requires a considered approach and an understanding of the risks within the business. We have developed a suite of products that enables growers to manage their risk while benefiting from upward price movements. Arranged according to cash-flow needs, we also offer forward payments for a committed tonnage when necessary. This is a sensible way for small businesses to manage market risk exposure. Informed debate to gain public acceptance Agriculture worldwide faces many challenges: an increasing population and the urbanisation of farmland that follows, growing demand for meat-based protein as consumers become more affluent, and the impact of climate change. It is not beyond the wit of man to overcome these challenges but doing so will almost certainly require the adoption of new technologies and practices. As the scepticism towards plant biotechnology demonstrates, if society is to be persuaded to accept new methods of production it first needs to be convinced of their benefit through informed debate. Government and business must heed the lessons of this communication blunder, and not allow the next breakthrough technology to be ridiculed by accusations of 'Frankenstein' foods and environmental Armageddon. Agriculture is a unique industry. It supports society by providing it with wholesome and sustainable food, it preserves the living environment for future generations, and it can help tackle climate change through renewable energy. To fulfil its potential, however, it needs and deserves the support of society, through strong political leadership, informed public debate and greater recognition of the fact that farmers everywhere can achieve better by working together than by working alone. Agriculture worldwide will need to adopt new technologies and practices if it is to meet the growing world food requirements collaboration is helping to improve efficiency, reduce costs and realise greater value " "