Raking out weeds on organic farm (From Gazette & Herald)

Raking out weeds on organic farm

VISITORS to a Forward Farming event held at Eastburn Farm, near Driffield, may be forgiven for raising an eyebrow when they witnessed standing crops being harrowed. But, on closer inspection, it was apparent that it was a purpose-made weed rake doing a splendid job taking out the weeds and leaving the crops virtually unscathed.

Farmer Derek Megginson considered the timing of the operation to be critical. "If the soil conditions are too moist the weeds are merely transplanted and will grow again," he explained. "The organic farmer must keep on top of weeds, pests and diseases as there are no quick-fix pesticide options available."

A substantial part of Eastburn Farm has been converted to organic production and visiting farmers were keen to compare the profitability of organic and non-organic systems. The general conclusion was that the yield penalty experienced with organic crops is usually more than compensated by the organic price premium.

Derek Knight of ADAS demonstrated that organic cropping systems had out-performed non-organic at High Mowthorpe experimental farm, but he stressed that careful planning was crucial if farmers were to convert successfully. Mr Knight commented that farmers must be genuinely interested in organic production. "Organic farming is as much a way of life as a production system," he added.

The next Forward Farming event is to be held at Robert Rook's Weighton Wold Farm, near Market Weighton, on the afternoon of Thursday May 22. The range of crops under scrutiny will include sugar beet, potatoes, vining peas and winter wheat. Agronomists from British Sugar, ADAS and May and Dawson will be on hand to provide specialist advice.

The Forward Farming project is co-ordinated by Bishop Burton College near Beverley. College tutors have been delighted with the level of support from the farming community.

More than 30 farmers attended the first Weighton Wold event and three farmer-led business clubs have now been established. Organiser David Farnsworth is keen to broaden the membership and is seeking farmers who would like to share ideas on improving farm profitability. Further details of Forward Farming events or business clubs in the area can be obtained from Bill Meredith at Bishop Burton College on (01964) 553000.

Updated: 13:04 Wednesday, May 21, 2003