OUR FARMERS

Farmers in our area are exploring more sustainable and organic farming practices, but they need data and community input to make informed decisions.

 

As residents, we can help by:

• Supporting organic farmer David Robinson by helping to collect the hedgerow data required to achieve organic certification. Find out what is needed and get involved.

• Working with farms to gather and analyse data on local bird populations, providing valuable insights into biodiversity on their land. 

• Participating in other initiatives like soil health monitoring and pollinator tracking to support environmentally friendly practices.

 

These projects help farmers transition to sustainable methods while protecting our shared ecosystems. But remember you are there to ADD VALUE, not create a burden! 

Supporting local farmer initiatives and projects is vital for fostering community spirit, promoting sustainable practices, and ensuring the availability of fresh, locally sourced produce. Engaging with these ventures not only bolsters the local economy but also provides educational and recreational opportunities for families. Here are some notable local initiatives in Wingfield and Stowford, Wiltshire:

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• Stowford Manor Farm: A family-run farm offering a range of activities, including a campsite, café serving cream teas, and educational farm visits. They also host art and craft workshops, promoting community engagement and learning.

  Stowford Manor Farm

• Stowford Education Centre: Located within Stowford Manor Farm, this centre provides farm-based educational activities, offering facilities for cooking, science experiments, and classroom learning, fostering a deeper understanding of agriculture and sustainability among children.

  Stowford Education Centre

• A Wilder Farm Project: An initiative by Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, this project involves local sheep farms creating habitats like orchards, ponds, and bee-friendly areas, enhancing biodiversity and promoting sustainable farming practices.

  Wiltshire Wildlife Trust

• Pomeroy Farm Pumpkin Patch - pick your own pumpkins during October at our very own pumpkin patch! 

• ​Buy fresh eggs from Rupert Turners Fancy Fowls available at our local farm shop FLOUISH.

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By participating in these local farm initiatives, residents can enjoy fresh produce, engage in educational and recreational activities, and contribute to the sustainability and vitality of their community.

As we enjoy the beautiful countryside around Wingfield and Stowford, it’s essential to respect the land and those who farm it. Follow the Countryside Code by:

• Picking up dog waste and disposing of it responsibly to protect livestock and wildlife.

• Shutting gates behind you to prevent animals from straying.

• Keeping to public paths and avoiding damage to crops.

Small acts of care make a big difference in supporting farmers and preserving our rural landscape.

Regenerative agriculture and rewilding can help tackle climate change, improve soil health, and increase biodiversity. Farmers often need support to implement these practices. You can:

• Volunteer to plant hedgerows, wildflowers, or trees on local farmland.

• Encourage community funding or grants for farmers to trial regenerative methods.

• Educate yourself and others on how these practices benefit both farming and the environment.

Once again remember you are there to ADD VALUE not be a burden, so take your lead from the farmer.​

Finally, supporting farmers also means respecting the food they produce. Reduce food waste by:

• Planning meals around what’s available locally.

• Composting scraps to return nutrients to the soil.

• Avoiding products that harm the environment, such as single-use plastics, and advocating for better recycling programs that farmers can benefit from.

National policies have a profound impact on local farmers. One key area is farmers' inheritance tax, which affects how family farms are passed down to the next generation. Lobbying MPs to:

• Advocate for fairer inheritance tax rules for farming families.

• Push for incentives for environmentally sustainable farming practices.

This ensures that farms remain viable and sustainable for years to come. Engaging in letter-writing campaigns or attending MP surgeries as a united community can amplify our voice.

Many of us don’t know the full extent of what it takes to run a farm. By learning more, we can build empathy and find ways to support farmers practically. Consider:

• Visiting local farms to see how dairy, grain, and meat production work.

• Volunteering on open days to help farmers connect with the community.

• Organizing educational talks or workshops on farming challenges and innovations.

Understanding the seasonal pressures, financial risks, and environmental responsibilities farmers face can foster stronger partnerships between farmers and residents. Once again, remember you are there to learn and ADD VALUE, not be a burden!

One of the simplest ways to support our farmers is to buy directly from them. This reduces food miles, ensures farmers get a fair price, and provides us with fresher, tastier produce. Look out for:

• Purchasing fresh eggs from Rupert Turner’s business, Fancy Fowls.

• Visiting local farm shop FLOUISH and stalls in Wingfield and Stowford.

• Supporting farmers’ markets in nearby towns.

• Signing up for veg box schemes or CSAs (community-supported agriculture).

Prioritise seasonal produce, and don’t hesitate to ask farmers about how their goods are produced – they’ll appreciate your interest!

Farmers are an integral part of our community, but the pressures they face can often feel isolating. As neighbors, we can:

• Check-in with local farmers to see how they’re doing and offer practical help during busy seasons.

• Organise events, such as harvest festivals or farm-to-table dinners, to celebrate their work.

• Create a village network to coordinate shared tools, skills, or resources to ease the burden on smaller farms.