BASIS has named Amy Watkins, Sustainability and Environmental Services Manager at Agrii, as the winner of the 2024 Barrie Orme Shield, sponsored by BASF, awarded for her exceptional performance during her BASIS Certificate in Crop Protection (Agriculture) examination, trained with Debbie Wedge with Vale Training as course providers.

Raised on a livestock farm in Mid Wales, Miss Watkins developed a strong connection to farming and the countryside from an early age. She went on to study Geography and Environmental Management at Harper Adams University before joining Agrii, where she progressed from a Sustainability Assistant to her current leadership role. In her work, Amy supports farmers in adopting practices that protect the environment while also making good business sense.

Miss Watkins took the BASIS Certificate in Crop Protection (Agriculture) to broaden her technical understanding of crop production, particularly integrated pest management (IPM). This has helped her to develop practical tools like IPM recording templates and support projects that encourage sustainable farming.

Reflecting on her learning journey, Amy said:

“I undertook BASIS Crop Protection to ensure I’m fully informed of the challenges and opportunities in growing food, so I can tailor sustainability solutions that work alongside them, not against them.”

Paul Haynes, Field Sales Manager at BASF, said:

"I’m grateful for the opportunity to have been involved with the 2025 Barrie Orme Shield award. After 15 years supporting BASIS examinations, it’s always heartening to see such enthusiasm from candidates like Amy Watkins, who is a worthy winner of this year’s Shield. At BASF, we’re passionate about supporting the future of agriculture, and it’s encouraging to see Amy’s commitment to environmental stewardship and best practice in crop production. Congratulations, Amy, and all the best for your future."

The runners-up for the Barrie Orme Shield 2024 are Christina Dutton, an Agronomist at Agrii, and Dr Andrew Gladman, a Senior Research Entomologist at ADAS.

For more information about BASIS training courses and qualifications, visit www.basis-reg.co.uk or contact the team on 01335 301200 or help@basis-reg.co.uk.