The Pawsey family has farmed in Suffolk for four generations, and John Pawsey, your host on this visit, started farming with his grandfather in 1985. He began converting the farm to organic production in 1999 due to concerns about overworked soils and diminishing biodiversity. He now farms entirely organically.

Shimpling Park Farm uses modern technology to control weeds, pests and diseases without the use of pesticides, to build fertility naturally using legumes and green manures. John’s aim is to leave the soil in good health for future generations and promote biodiversity by operating as a carbon-negative farm.

In further efforts to move towards carbon-negative farming, John reintroduced livestock in 2014 with a flock of New Zealand Romney sheep to recycle nutrients. In December 2020, he planted three fields with 3,500 trees totalling around 50 acres as part of an agro-forestry project.

You will hear from John on the day about a pond restoration project he has undertaken with the Suffolk Wildlife Trust and learn how he is assessing natural capital options as part of his farm cluster group.

The AGM, drinks and supper will be served in the rustic wedding venue barn, which is heated entirely by renewable fuels from the farm.

This visit is by kind permission of the Pawsey family.

ITINERARY
2.30pm Registration and refreshments in the barn
3.00pm Suffolk Branch AGM, update from a CLA Officer and welcome from the Pawsey family
4.00pm Walking tour of the farm and orchard
6.00pm Drinks served in the courtyard
6.30pm Two course supper served with wine
8.00pm Depart

HOW TO BOOK?
To book a place at this CLA event please click book now.

For more information please call 01638 590429 or email Elaine Molton via elaine.molton@cla.org.uk.