In a glittering ceremony in London this week Marion Self was crowned Agronomist of the Year at the National Arable & Grassland Awards (NAGA).
Ms Self has worked as an independent agronomist with Prime Agriculture LLP since February 2009 and as a partner since 2012. Her passion is shaping scientific knowledge into practical agronomic advice. She enthusiastically supports farmers to achieve the full potential of their crops and profitability through rotation, good soil management, choice of cropping and appropriate levels of input. Her decisions are made with respect to the land and environment and is now working with a growing number of clients practicing more regenerative strategies.
Research agronomist
Before joining Prime she worked as a research agronomist and adviser for NIAB TAG. Growers benefit from her up-to-date knowledge which is enhanced by her role as the AICC technical representative. Via this role she is actively involved with a number of expert working groups including the AICC Trials Committee, BCPC Pests and Beneficials Group, BCPC Diseases Group, Insect Resistance Action Group, and the CRD Grower Liaison Group. She is also former committee member on the AHDB RL Oilseeds Committee for two terms and now a member and Chairman Elect of the AHDB RL Barley, Oats and Other Cereals Committee.
As a former director and now partner in Prime Crop Research (PCR) she continues to be instrumental in establishing a unique commercial trials company between Prime and Dr Tom McCabe of Crop Research Ireland.
On receiving her award Ms Self said: “I am absolutely overwhelmed at this industry honour. The award doesn’t just represent my efforts, but the hard work of all my colleagues over the years.”
Ms Self enjoys sharing her knowledge with enthusiasm. She is a Foundation BASIS Trainer, teaching one course per year and have recently helped deliver an Integrated Pest Management discussion meeting with farmers on behalf of Suffolk Wildlife Trust.
She is also involved in her family run arable farm in Suffolk. Together with her father she has been managing the strategic and agronomic decisions and now they are moving the business through a period of succession as the next enthusiastic generation joins us.
