OUR ENVIRONMENT
Sustainable agriculture is all about working alongside the surrounding environment and its wildlife. We are part of several schemes that ensure the longevity of our local wildlife. Whether its the development of food sources or the enhancement of habitats, we aim to increase the biodiversity of the patch we call home.
MEAD’S MEADOW
Established autumn 2014
One of our most visible projects is our wildflower meadow. Located behind the farm shop. This meadow is open to the public during certain summer months to allow everyone to see a wide variety of fauna and flora. Take pictures and try to identify the different species of plants, butterflies, bees and birds. Don’t be shy, guides and identification cards are able at the shop.
Hedgerow management
We have mile upon mile of hedgerows on our farm. Hedges are the most understated habitat on most farms. Our hedges are cut on a rotation of 3 years which allows them to provide a valuable food source through the winter while providing shelter and nesting sites later on in the spring. Like trees, the best time to plant hedges was 20 years ago. So lucky for us Simon and Chris Mead did just this and it is fantastic to see them maturing knowing their large contribution to our farms wildlife.
Fields margins
All our hedges and field boundaries are supported by field margins. These vary from 2m to 12m wide and increase the area where wildlife can find food and shelter. Having established these many years ago, our margins contain a rich variety of flora species which insects love. They are a great way of enhancing existing habitats such as hedges, ponds and water courses.
Healthy Soils
A productive farm requires healthy soils. Soil is the single, most complex habitat on any farm and despite its unremarkable appearance it is vital to all on farm species. As a mixed farm we have the ability to use organic fertilisers. FarmYard Manure (FYM) is a wonderful bi-product of our Aberdeen Angus and is spread in rotation across the farm to maintain nutrient levels, increase carbon content and most importantly maintain healthy levels of biological activity e.g worms, bacteria and fungi.