Regenerative Agriculture

Regenerative farming is an approach to farming based on six principles, which help farmers to ease off chemical use (e.g. nitrates and phosphates, in synthetic additives such as fertilizers and pesticides), whilst reducing dependence on volatile commodity prices. The approach is based on farming with, and in response to, natural cycles (energy, water, nutrients), encouraging restoration of soil health, and optimising ecosystem services from the land. Regenerative farming helps to stabilise profits and reduce risk to environmental change (e.g. intense rainfall and drought). Improved soil organic matter, greater water retention, greater surface water interception, reduced diffuse pollution and much greater biodiversity; are all linked to regenerative farming.

For optimal environmental benefit, farm holdings that have high nitrate/phosphate run-off (CSF reportedly have these mapped) could be targeted first. Prioritise farmland areas that:

• Have more willing landowners/farmers and aligned tenancy conditions
• Support ecological connectivity (species and habitats) and designated sites
• Areas next to water courses to help reduce diffuse pollution
• Areas where high surface water run-off exacerbates flooding and poor water quality downstream, and will help de-risk assets such as CSOs, rail and road infrastructure.

Over the next couple of years, we should see a collaboration between regenerative farming pioneers in Cheshire, with existing regenerative farming networks elsewhere in the country and Catchment Sensitive Farming.

The 2022 John Nix Handbook reports average profit margins of £200-415/ha for regenerative arable farming, although all locations are likely to have a 5yr transition period. National case studies and local pilots at places like Cholmondeley Estates are already showing significant increases in yields and profit by introducing regenerative farming practices into the
management of both arable and pastural land.

Investment in field edge margins for wildlife and to attract pollinators is already proven to be more productive and profitable, but trials have improved biodiversity (insects, birds, amphibians, reptiles, mammals), soil health, water storage (increase in organic matter), water quality and public health (nutrient density) will also benefit as natural soil processes and biological diversity are restored.

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