Pest control professionals from across the UK gathered at Mowness Hall Farm in Suffolk for BASF’s highly anticipated “Great Day on the Farm” – which returned for 2026 with an expanded programme of practical, field-based training.
The one-day event, held on Wednesday, and delivered in partnership with Killgerm Chemicals, brought together 60 delegates for an immersive, hands-on experience focused on real-world challenges in rural and agricultural pest control.
Building on the success of previous years, the 2026 event placed an even greater emphasis on hands-on learning. Delegates rotated through five dedicated training zones in small groups, ensuring an interactive and engaging experience throughout the day.
A highlight of this year’s programme was the “Mastery of Spraying” session, led by BASF’s Alex Wade.
Covering calibration, maintenance and spraying techniques, the session ended in a timed obstacle course, offering a competitive and memorable way to reinforce best practice.
Environmental Risk Assessments returned with an enhanced session from Killgerm’s Tim Bloomer, focusing on practical application and evolving best practice. Meanwhile, Alastair Fernie led a highly practical proofing workshop, giving attendees the opportunity to identify and physically seal real-world entry points across the farm’s buildings.
Covered and protected baiting strategies were explored in depth by BPCA’s Niall Gallagher, with delegates tasked with constructing their own baiting solutions on-site.
NPTA’s Duncan Bosomworth of also delivered a dedicated grain store baiting session, addressing the specific challenges of managing rodent infestations in agricultural environments.
New for this year, a crop and field walk led by BASF’s Frances Seabrook provided insight into modern farming practices, offering pest controllers a broader understanding of how crop production and pest management intersect.
As with previous events, compliance remained a key focus. The day closed with an interactive Q&A session on Red Tractor assurance standards ran by Annie Rogers from Red Tractor, giving delegates the chance to gain clarity on requirements while feeding back on real-world challenges faced in the field.
Alongside the training, delegates were well catered for, with bacon rolls served on arrival, a BBQ lunch, and refreshments available throughout the day in the farm’s main barn.
Laurence Barnard, country business manager for BASF Professional & Specialty Solutions, said: “The Great Day on the Farm continues to evolve each year. What makes it so valuable is the opportunity for pest controllers to get hands-on, test techniques in real-world conditions, and learn directly from industry experts. This year’s programme was our most interactive yet and once again sold out very quickly.
“Despite it being on one of the hottest days of the year, and 30 degree plus heat all day – everyone managed to stay involved, engaged and cool – especially when we brought out the ice creams!”
Mr Barnard said that consistently strong feedback from previous attendees, the 2026 event further cemented “Great Day on the Farm” as a must-attend date in the industry calendar.
He added: “We’re keen to continue bringing these practical training days back each year, exploring new locations across the UK to make them accessible to as many professionals as possible.
“Spaces fill up incredibly quickly, so those wishing to attend next year’s event should book early to avoid disappointment.”
