LEAF audit evidence of gains for growers
LEAF audit evidence of gains for growers
GROWERS are getting better at Integrated Farm Management, according to the latest LEAF Audit results.
"In most areas of the audit we are seeing clear improvements in farming practice and management style," says Acting Project co-ordinator Jeremy Boxall.
Despite severe financial pressures, awareness of and adherence to legislation has improved and modern technology use is up among the 500 or so members returning the audit.
"This says a lot for UK farmers. They are working hard to address problem areas and setting themselves challenging, but realistic targets in their commitment to improved business and environmental performance."
The LEAF Audit, either on paper or computer disk, comes free with membership of LEAF (see panel) and can be a key step for growers to meet the environmental requirements of assurance schemes, says Mr Boxall. "I found it very useful when I was a farm manager, as it made me think about all aspects of the business and provided a benchmark against other growers completing the audit."
Completing the self-assessment process could also influence government, as the number of returns has been identified as a pilot indicator of sustainable agriculture in the UK by MAFF, he adds. *
LEAF audit results
1998 1999
% Respondents using:
Precision farming 33 38
Buffer zones
(inc fert & slurry) 43 59
Farm waste
management plans 33 46
LEAF membership costs (inc VAT)
Farms under 120ha £35 a year
Farms over 120ha £59 a year