GroundsFest Academy kicked off its 2026 programme in style with a fully booked Integrated Weed Management (IWM) event, bringing together contractors, local authorities, educators and suppliers for a free day of learning, discussion and hands-on demonstrations.
Held at the Wiltshire FA headquarters, the event focused on the latest guidance, funding opportunities and practical solutions surrounding integrated weed management, with a particular emphasis on reducing reliance on chemicals and exploring effective alternative methods. Delivered in partnership with Kersten UK, Terrazza MC, Parks for London and Lantra, the day combined expert-led presentations with interactive outdoor sessions and live equipment demonstrations.
The programme introduced delegates to the core principles of integrated weed management, alongside the latest industry guidance, legislative developments and funding information. Attendees were also able to explore chemical-free and alternative weed control methods in action, helping to bridge the gap between theory and real-world application.
Sean Faulkner of Kersten UK highlighted the growing momentum behind IWM and the importance of education.
“We’re trying to educate as many people as possible on the benefits of integrated weed management. We’ve been helping to develop the guidance and training around it, and it’s slowly building up steam. This was a great way of getting that information out to more people. It’s been a really good group today, with a big mix of attendees who have all been really engaged.”
Hands-on learning was a key theme throughout the day. Luca Smith from Terrazza MC explained why practical demonstrations are so important.
“Weed control is really traditional, most people think of spraying or strimming. There are so many alternative methods out there, especially with the environmental impact of traditional approaches. Everyone today was really hands-on, asking loads of questions, and it’s great to be able to let people actually use the equipment and see how it works.”
Education providers were also keen to stay aligned with the latest developments. Richard Goldsmith, who attended from Warwickshire College Group, said:
“Today was about making sure I’m delivering the most up-to-date information to my apprentices. Integrated weed management is a great step towards the future. The technology around heat treatments has really moved on, and it’s getting to the point where we can see it as a real alternative to chemical control. Events like this are a brilliant way to keep CPD up to date.”
Other delegates also echoed the value of the event. Jason Lee from Countrywide Grounds Maintenance said:
"We want to understand what’s around the corner and how we can move towards more environmentally friendly solutions. Seeing how the training is structured around integrated weed management has been really interesting.”
Matt Jones of Sipcam Home and Garden added:
“It’s been a brilliant day for understanding the challenges around integrated weed management and how it all fits together for councils and contractors. Offering this event for free is superb.”
David Fisher from Lantra, a partner of the GroundsFest Academy, summed up the wider impact:
“It’s about sharing best practice, upskilling the industry and making people more aware of the training and resources available. It’s really raising the profile of integrated weed management.”
Ed Stannard from Parks for London said:
“We’re hoping delegates leave feeling more confident to consider non-chemical-first approaches, while understanding there are still situations where chemicals are necessary. We’re delighted with the turnout.”
Bradley Tennant, Director of Education at GroundsFest Academy, said the event set the tone for a busy year ahead. “We’re really happy to have our best turnout so far, and we’ve got a lot planned for the future.”
With strong attendance, positive feedback and a packed programme of future events, GroundsFest Academy continues to play a vital role in supporting education, innovation and best practice across the industry.
For more information, please visit www.groundsfestacademy.com
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