Farming
Here in the Fens, we've always recognised the importance of managing our farms in an environmentally responsible way - balancing the conservation of wildlife species with the everyday day practical working of the farmland. It's important to us because our livelihood depends on it!
LEAF
In 2000 we became a LEAF Demonstration Farm (Linking Environment and Farming). This national initiative encourages farmers to adopt an integrated farm management (IFM) approach to produce safe, wholesome food economically through efficient management while conserving and enhancing the environment.
Looking after the Environment
Our environmental strategy is an integral part of our operation. It includes establishing wide strips on the boundaries of fields and watercourses to act as buffer zones and wildlife habitats. Ditch and reservoir habitats are managed to provide nesting and feeding areas for wetland and water birds. The timing and frequency of hedge, dyke and grass cutting is organised sensitively so that there is minimal disruption for the wildlife which depends on them as a home or a source of food. Disturbance of nesting areas is kept to a minimum during breeding seasons.
Over the last 30 years there has also been an ongoing programme of planting woodland and hedgerows and managing them to encourage a wide range of species.
Where possible, crops are grown using sub-irrigation and planting systems which reduce water, pesticide, fertilizer and energy usage.
In 2001 we were the first company to receive the Cambridgeshire Biodiversity Challenge County Award. We were also named LEAF Marque Grower of the Year in 2006 and also won the National Farm Award in 2006.
Going Organic
In addition to farming and managing the environment, a rapidly growing demand for organic produce means that Shropshire's has a continuous programme of converting land to grow ranges of organic salads, vegetables and arable crops.