This new partnership offers an exciting challenge for a farmer who would like to be at the coal-face of research on more ecological approaches to agricultural production. Biodiversity, soil health, agroforestry and livestock welfare are just some of the ground-breaking research that will take place on the farm. The results of which are shared with other like-minded farmers, policy makers and all those with an interest in the future development of agricultural policy.
The Organic Research Centre’s Director, Nic Lampkin, said: “We are very excited about this new opportunity. The Organic Research Centre is poised to move into a new phase of development from this year, with the farm playing a more central role in our work, hosting some of our agroforestry, grassland and livestock research as well as demonstrating many of the inspirational, innovative ideas that we are working on at other sites. A share farming partner who is committed to best practice and keen to be at the forefront of ecological innovation in farming will be central to achieving this.”
Currently, the farm is predominantly grassland and totals 85ha (211 acres) with a range of good quality outbuildings and a 3-bed cottage. The arrangement will be a business partnership with the Organic Research Centre contributing land, buildings and related maintenance, as well as payments to undertake research and demonstration projects on its behalf. In return the share-farmer will need to contribute working capital in the form of stock and/or machinery.
A major element of the role is that the potential share-farmer is keen to support the Organic Research Centre’s endeavour to develop practical, sustainable land management and food production systems based on organic and agro-ecological principles.
For those interested in applying to become a share-farmer at Elm Farm in Berkshire, the Organic Research Centre will be holding viewing days to see the farm and discuss ideas on Thursday 8th or Monday 19th February 2018.
A full information pack is available on the charity’s website at: www.organicresearchcentre.com.
To register interest in attending, please contact Nic Lampkin
For more information, please contact: Morag Walker on mobile: 07736 124097 or morag@moragwalkerpr.co.uk
The Organic Research Centre (ORC): established in 1980, is the UK’s leading independent research charity for the development of organic/agroecological food production and land management solutions to key global issues including climate change, soil and biodiversity conservation, and food security. www.organicresearchcentre.com
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