Sustainability

‘Sustainability, Regeneration, Biodiversity’ - these are the latest eco farming buzzwords . They aren’t new to us at Lower Brimley Coombe and Stoke Knapp farm as we have been applying the principles behind these words from the very beginning.

Our pastures are a mix of low input grazing pastures and herbal leys. These leys are multi-species including plants with deep roots like legumes and clovers that fix nitrogen and feed the soil. There is no need for artificial fertilisers. They also improve sequestration of carbon from the atmosphere and promote carbon storage in the soil.

Our healthy soil is full of life – from tiny microbes to fungi to insects and worms, all supporting birds and wildlife. Wildflowers flourish. Three ponds on the farms also contribute to the biodiversity.

Dan and Archie have planted over 5000 trees including the Diamond Jubilee Wood in honour of Her late Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. There are now over 9000 metres of hedgerows, restored and newly laid.

Butterflies, beautiful dragonflies, bumblebees, birds, lizards, frogs, bats and other small mammals share our land. From kites and owls to swallow and wrens, and many other bird species, the farm is alive with their song. Dan has five active beehives on the farms. The bees play the important role as pollinators and provide us with wonderful honey.

Sustainability and Biodiversity require more than human labour. It would not be possible without our very important partners - the Portland and Dorset sheep flocks.