Back in June 2024, we had attended Groundswell in Hertfordshire, where we reconnected with familiar faces and met plenty of new ones. It was a fantastic opportunity to introduce the sounds of earthworms to hundreds of attendees, demonstrating how our ecoacoustics technology is uncovering hidden insights beneath the soil.
Groundswell isn’t just about showcasing innovation; it’s also a chance to learn. We deepened our understanding of regenerative agriculture, viticulture and the latest tech aimed at measuring and promoting soil health. Farmers, estate managers and wine growers face ongoing challenges – from climate change and crop pests to increasing regulatory demands. Events like Groundswell highlight the opportunities in Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) and collaborative working.
One of the standout sessions was ‘Transforming the Food Landscape at Scale,’ hosted by Henry Dimbleby (co-author of the National Food Strategy) and Andy Kato from Wildfarmed. Their thought-provoking talk drew a packed crowd in the Big Top, sparking discussions on food security and the role of regenerative practices in mainstream farming. Our own Communications Director even managed to slip in a leading question during the Q&A! If you missed it, you can catch the recording here (jump to 38 minutes for the Q&A).
Another highlight was hearing from Archie Ruggles-Brice of Spains Hall Estate, who shared his experience of pioneering the sale of BNG units to generate income from their rewilding programme. We also attended an insightful session led by the Regenerative Viticulture Foundation, WineGB, and NIAB, discussing how the wine industry can address harmful growing practices and what research is needed to support a shift toward regenerative viticulture.
Beyond the sessions, Groundswell was invaluable in forging new connections. We strengthened ties with farming cooperatives like First Milk and Yeo Valley Farms, explored collaborations with other technology providers, and discussed how ecoacoustics can contribute to biodiversity monitoring across vineyards, farming estates and more.
In July we’ll be heading back to Hertfordshire for another year at Groundswell, and we’ll be bringing our Soil Acoustic Meter (SAM) with us, giving you the chance to see it in action and ask all the burning questions you’ve had since its launch in the New Year.
Don’t miss the opportunity to chat with us and discover how you can incorporate SAM into your soil management practices. You can find us on stand G24 in the Pasture Field!
If you’d prefer schedule a time to meet with us during the event, or simply want to chat with us about our soil health technology and services, please get in touch via info@soilacoustics.com or call +44 (0)1629 593958.
