Value our Farmers and Food Producers –
Pat Crawford reports
A study by the UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology and Rothamsted Research based on trials undertaken at 17 farms in southern England showed that incorporation of nature-friendly practices on farms increased pollination, natural pest control and biodiversity. The report indicated that including wildflower strips resulted in improved soil health and increased numbers of earthworms as well as bees and hoverflies (both of which are important pollinators). Numbers of natural predators such as ladybirds, spiders and lacewings also increased so reducing pests such as snails and aphids. Gardeners who incorporate wildflowers into their plots record similar benefits. An ecologist at Rothamsted Research, Professor Jonathan Storkey, commented that managing farmland for wildlife is not in direct conflict with food security but that farmers will require additional support.
Hadlow College, Kent’s only land-based college, enjoyed a successful presence at this year’s Kent County Show. A pair of Romney yearling ewes achieved first place, went on to be announced Reserve Champion and then took the Alfred Day Challenge Cup. Prizes were also secured in the cattle section and, competing against a vast array of superb exhibits, Hadlow was awarded a certificate for Best Agricultural Trade Stand. At the time of writing the college is hoping for repeat successes at the Edenbridge and Oxted Show (report next edition).
Staycations are increasingly in demand for both main holidays and short breaks including during the winter months. Farm-based locations often offer opportunities to get involved with a variety of jobs and many welcome dogs (well-managed pets, of course!) while some also have facilities for visiting horses and ponies.
Date for diary: Saturday 15 November, 10am to 1pm. Hadlow College open event affording opportunity to explore the facilities, meet the college’s industry-trained lecturers and chat with current students. (www.hadlow.ac.uk)
This month’s jargon buster: Sustainable Development. Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. (This definition of sustainable development is from the Brundtland Report published by the United Nations World Commission on Environment and Development.)