E W Davies Farms Ltd launched as LEAF Demonstration Farm

E W Davies Farms Ltd has today become the latest farm to be launched as a LEAF (Linking Environment And Farming) Demonstration Farm in recognition of its commitment to more sustainable farming. It joins over 35 other LEAF Demonstration Farms set up to showcase the very best of sustainable farming practices to farmers, as well as to a wide range of audiences through organised visits.

The 1,300 hectare family owned farm in Essex specialises in contract farming and uses LEAF’s Integrated Farm Management (IFM) principles to deliver more sustainable farming. The Davies family started farming in 1913 and have a long tradition of farming to the highest standards of environmental stewardship. They grow a wide range of combinable crops and also run a flock of Polled Dorset sheep. The farm gained LEAF Marque certification in 2012. Through precision farming methods, introduction of cover crops into the rotation to capture nutrients, careful soil and water management and enhancement of the farm’s many wildlife features, the business is an exemplary example of combining commercial farming with sensitive landscape and nature conservation.

The farm participated in this year’s LEAF Open Farm Sunday, welcoming more than 600 visitors, and have also installed a platform on one of their reservoirs to enable local primary school children to learn the importance of clean, healthy water through activities such as pond dipping.

E W Davies Farms Ltd was officially launched as a LEAF Demonstration Farm by Will Gemmill, National Head of Farming and Eastern Regional Chairman, Strutt and Parker on Friday 7th July 2017. Guests at the launch were given a farm tour to see IFM in action and how production and conservation go hand in hand.

Jeremy Durrant, Farm Manager, E W Davies Farms Ltd said: “We are extremely proud to have been recognised by LEAF for all that we do to combine profitable farming with sensitive environmental management. We have always tried to be innovative and forward thinking in the way we farm. LEAF’s IFM approach is all about striving to achieve balance across the whole farm. We’re working hard in lots of practical ways to conserve and enhance the natural environment by planting trees, creating wetland areas and cutting our carbon footprint. Being a LEAF Demonstration Farm will be a brilliant way to build on what we have already achieved and develop our interest in reconnecting people with how their food is grown.”

LEAF Chairman Stephen Fell, who also attended the launch added: “Our industry has much to be proud of. For over twenty five years, LEAF’s nationwide network of Demonstration Farms has been leading the way in promoting best practice in sustainable farming to other farmers as well as bridging the gap between farmers and the public. E W Davies Farms Ltd deserve their place amongst them. They are first class examples of how the principles of IFM can be implemented and play an important role in not only inspiring others in the food and farming industry, but helping to raise awareness amongst the public about sustainable food production.”

As a LEAF Demonstration Farm, E W Davies Farms Ltd will act as a ‘living classroom’ demonstrating and promoting the principles of IFM to other farmers as well as to local schools, politicians, consumers and community groups.

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