Environmental Policy
Our policy is based on our lifetime work ethic of conserving the farming way of life together with the preservation of wildlife but at the same time endeavouring to make a viable business. To this end we have had to diversify but whilst doing this we have tried to ensure that local people not only have homes to live in but also have the opportunity of working locally.
Conversion of buildings has been carried out in a sympathtic manner reusing building materials where possible and building in the traditional style.
Where possible the ancient meadows have been kept with the indigenous trees and hedgerows, and fertilizer use has been kept to an absolute minimum. Manure has been traded with the neighbouring farmer in exchange for straw for the cattle bedding. We are now planting up further hedgerows as infill together with field margins and floristic enhancement for insects and bird life. Lowing lying meadows beside the river will be flooded to assist with the overwintering of wading birds in accordance with the Higher Level Stewardship scheme .
Not only do we have one SSSI site on the farm, we also have three County Wild Flower sites as well!
Rare breed cattle have been kept on the farm during the last 20 years together with a commercial beef suckler herd. The beef is now being used in our restaurants and is also available for purchase via our butchery at Park Farm.
Our recycling ethos is that throughout every aspect of our business we reduce, reuse, reinvent to minimize our impact on the environment.
We grow our own vegetables and fruit in addition we purchase food grown and produced locally.
The chickens and geese roam freely giving Castle Farm yard a truly rustic farm appearance! together with the occasional egg.
Our commitment to the Green Tourism Business Scheme encourages sustainable practices to ensure the continued enjoyment of the environment around us for future generations.
The Recycle system
We reuse, recycle
Cattle are fed grass and protein produce milk and beef and manure – complete cycle
Vegetables grown, used, peelings composted.
Wood conserved, dried, chipped used for heating and hot water Castle House and River Cottage. New trees are being planted in conjunction with the Wet Woodland Project.
Water – is via artesian well/bore hole tested on regular basis by the EHO
Sewerage is dealt with by means of a new sewerage treatment plant clearing through a natural reed bed.
Electricity - low voltage lights used where possible lights are also on daylight saving or pir
Gas – LPG used for cooking.
Cardboard, glass, paper, tin, banks are all available within the farm site – all farm waste (plastic etc)is recycled through authorised centres.
Second hand equipment and materials are purchased when ever possible to expense to a minimum.
