Rootstock 2026 brings UK farming leaders to Westpoint, Exeter

Farmers, researchers and policymakers from across the South West will converge on Exeter next week as Rootstock returns to Westpoint for its fourth annual conference, putting resilient and profitable farming firmly in the spotlight.

Taking place on Thursday 5 February, Rootstock 2026 will bring together leading voices from across the agricultural sector to address some of the most pressing challenges facing UK farming, from climate change and volatile markets to evolving government policy.

Hosted at Westpoint, just outside Exeter, the conference has quickly established itself as a key date in the regional farming calendar.

Organised by the Devon County Agricultural Association (DCAA), Rootstock is designed to bridge the gap between academic research and practical, on-farm decision making.

This year’s programme will focus on four core themes: the wider context for UK agriculture, resilient arable rotations, optimising livestock production, and improving farm profitability.

Together, the sessions aim to provide practical insights that farmers can take back to their businesses at a time of continued uncertainty for the sector.

Rootstock coordinator Mel Bradley said the conference was created to encourage collaboration and knowledge-sharing across the industry.

“Rootstock was launched in 2023 to create a forum for collaboration and learning, bridging the gap between cutting-edge research and everyday farming practice,” she said.

“The 2026 conference will focus on profitable, resilient farming systems that work with natural processes, offering attendees actionable strategies to thrive amidst uncertainty.”

Last year’s event attracted 340 delegates, reflecting growing demand for practical, regionally relevant guidance.

Ms Bradley added that Rootstock has “quickly become a must-attend event for everyone involved in farming and agriculture in the South West”.

Alongside expert-led sessions, the conference also offers valuable networking opportunities, reinforcing Exeter and Westpoint’s role as a hub for agricultural innovation and discussion in the region.

Tickets include access to all sessions and a buffet lunch, with prices set at £35 for farmers or DCAA members and £50 for non-farmers.