August 21,
2003: The launch of the Soil Association's
first demonstration compost farm is an opportunity to
learn from experts in compost production. It takes place
on 16 September at Linscombe Farm, near Crediton in
Devon.
Delegates will learn how to make good compost and why
it will protect crops against pests and diseases. There
will also be a tour of the award winning farm which
runs a successful local box scheme.
Rob Haward, the Soil Association's Horticulture Manager,
says "There is still so much to learn about the
benefits of good compost, but more and more of the world's
top growers are investing in compost production and
realising the rewards.
"Linscombe Farm is a fantastic model - demonstrating
the best organic horticultural practice combined with
best practice compost production.”
Phil Thomas, of Linscombe Farm, said, "We have
learnt at first hand that success as a grower is about
getting the soil right. We have been using local green
compost for some time, but it is only since this summer
that we have got the necessary equipment to produce
good compost on the farm. The site is prepared and we
are raring to go."
Helen Case and Phil Thomas have been running Linscombe
Farm organically since 1997. They jointly won the box
scheme of the year in the Soil Association's Organic
Food Awards in 2002.
The demonstration farm is supported by the Pennon Group
and Marks & Spencer. In coming years farmers, organic
businesses and policy makers will be able to attend
a range of training days to learn more about reducing
waste, recycling and compost production.
The cost of the training event is £39 (incl VAT)
per day for Soil Association producer members or Soil
Association Certification Limited Licensees or £56
(incl VAT) for non-members.
To book your place and for more information contact
Jesse Heckstall-Smith, Soil Association Producer Services
department, on 0117 987 4587 or 914 2400.
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