Friday, July 11, 2025

Pilot project tests agroecological viability for commercial fruit and vegetable production

A new agroecological pilot project is underway in Powys, Wales, with farmers using 36 acres of county-owned land near Newtown to assess the feasibility of growing fruit and vegetables on a commercial scale. The project aims to supply produce to local markets, schools, and potentially cities like Birmingham.

Farmers, all local to Powys and surrounding areas, were selected based on their growing experience and business plans. They will collaborate on a local veg box scheme and develop independent enterprises. Key activities will include selling organic vegetables to wholesalers, providing salad crops for local cafés, offering beekeeping and food preparation courses, and selling value-added products such as kimchi and chutneys at local markets. The project will also integrate agroforestry practices, livestock, and sustainable production techniques such as woodchip and biochar production to enhance soil health, manage pests, and reduce reliance on external inputs.

The pilot is supported by a partnership between Powys and Carmarthenshire County Councils, Our Food 1200, and Social Farms & Gardens. Temporary housing for the farmers has been approved under new planning guidance aimed at supporting small-scale horticultural enterprises.

The initiative is funded by the Welsh Government (£270,000), the UK Government (£341,000), and the National Lottery Heritage Fund (£20,000). The Future Farms Partnership hopes to replicate the model across the region, promoting local food production, reducing food miles, and creating more resilient farming communities.

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