Farming with the Planet: South Wales farm praised for sustainability efforts
14th July 2023
Rural affairs minister Lesley Griffiths has recently visited Sealands Farm near Bridgend, South Wales, to learn about its sustainable farming practices that benefit the environment and business alike.
Rural affairs minister Lesley Griffiths (left) visited Richard and Lyn Anthony of Sealands Farm.
Farming with nature while building business resilience is a key focus for Richard and Lyn Anthony, who have been doing this in many ways at Sealands Farm in St Brides Major.
For example, to remove carbon from the atmosphere, the couple has been increasing organic matter in their arable soils, which also helps retain moisture in the ground during dry weather.
They have also established companion cropping with their arable crops, which reduces risks from pests, benefits pollinating insects, and lowers chemical usage.
In addition, extensive crop trials are taking place at the farm to test new crop varieties suitable to grow in the Welsh climate, and renewable energy sources have been installed.
Explaining more about their work, Mr Anthony said: “I believe modern productive agriculture is a big part of the solution to climate change, and we are still learning how to build resilience on our farm which is even more important in dry seasons like we’re experiencing currently.
“We like to demonstrate what is practical on the ground, and I think it’s valuable for farmers to learn from each other and see what ideas might work at their own farm.”
During her visit, the minister praised the couple’s efforts that champion sustainable farming and aligns with the Welsh government’s Sustainable Land Management objectives.
Sustainable Land Management establishes a policy and legislative framework which is designed to help farmers adapt to climate change and enhance ecosystems while maintaining sustainable food production.
The visit comes as the first-ever Welsh Agriculture Bill passed its final stage of Senedd scrutiny and proceeds to seek Royal Assent to become legislation in Wales.
Commenting on her visit, Ms Griffiths said: “It has been great to meet Richard and Lyn and learn more about the impressive work they’re doing at Sealands which aligns with our aims to tackle the climate and nature emergencies and support the sustainability of the farm business.
“They have implemented a number of measures and I have been pleased to hear about how these are having a positive impact on their business and their land.
“Sustainable Land Management is the bedrock of future agriculture policy in Wales and will help ensure our farmers can continue to produce high quality produce and agricultural goods for years to come alongside taking action to protect the environment.”
