Wellshead Natural Capital Project Coombe Farm
The A H Warren Trust is a farming estate covering approximately 2,500 acres (1011 ha). The estate comprises of three organic dairy farms, as well as other business ventures, including commercial/residential properties, riding school, shooting/fishing sporting facilities, holiday lets, storage, and a solar farm.
| Project Type | Biodiversity Net Gain |
|---|---|
| LPA | Somerset |
| Units Available | AOR |
| Unit Price | AOR |
| Client | A H Warren Trust |
| Sector | Dairy & Rural Enterprises |
| Start Date | 1 Jun 2024 |
The Trust supplies milk to a local processor, rears beef cattle as a by-product from the dairy herd, and maintains an extensive flock of Lleyn sheep, which are lambed outside each year.
Crop production activities include taking three cuts of grass for silage, harvesting hay from water meadows, and baling straw from their own cereals to bed and feed to livestock during winter.
The Trust also grows forage crops and cereals to provide a balanced ration, allowing near self-sufficiency in animal feed.
Project Scope
Our BNG initiative at Coombe Farm is set to transform 38.94 ha of land, creating a mosaic of biodiverse habitats. While the final number of biodiversity units is yet to be determined pending negotiations with the LPA, we anticipate a significant contribution to the local BNG market.
Project Solution
Assessment Phase
Our journey began with Liz Warner, Head of our Land Team, conducting a comprehensive site walkover with the farm manager of Coombe Farm, Theo Coleman. This initial consultation allowed us to gain invaluable insights into the estate's operations and identify areas with high BNG potential. Following this, our team of ecologists conducted a detailed baseline survey of the selected parcels. This thorough assessment provided a clear picture of existing habitats, species presence, and the overall ecological context of the site, forming the foundation for our bespoke BNG plan.
Planning Phase
Using the data from our baseline survey, we developed a tailored BNG plan that maximises biodiversity gains while respecting the working nature of the farm. This plan was carefully crafted to complement the estate's organic farming practices and long-term vision.
We are currently assisting the Trust with the legal securement of the land, a crucial step in ensuring the project's long-term success. This involves navigating the complexities of conservation covenants and exploring options that provide both flexibility for the estate and certainty for potential unit purchasers.
Delivery Phase
As we move towards implementation, the Trust has chosen a mixed approach, combining their farming expertise with specialist contractors for more complex tasks. This way, they've ensured that any BNG interventions integrate seamlessly with their plans for the estate..
Looking ahead, we'll conduct regular monitoring and develop a 30-year management plan. This long-term strategy will ensure the created and enhanced habitats continue to thrive and deliver biodiversity benefits for decades to come.
Key Features
Riparian Enhancement
The project's proximity to the River Axe presents unique opportunities for riparian habitat enhancement. We're looking to implement a 15-meter wide buffer zone along the river, creating wetland areas and restoring the riverbank.
This intervention aims to improve water quality by reducing agricultural runoff and providing crucial habitats for species like the water vole and kingfisher.
Agricultural Integration
This project demonstrates how biodiversity and productive agriculture can mutually benefit each other. We're implementing five hectares of herbal leys, which serve as both biodiverse habitats and nutritious forage for the farm's organic dairy herd.
These leys, comprising a mix of 12 different herb, legume, and grass species, will enhance soil health, support pollinators, and provide drought-resistant grazing options.
Local Benefits
The estate's proximity to Blackmoor Wood, an ancient and semi-natural woodland, provides an opportunity to create vital wildlife corridors.
We're planting three kilometres of new, species-rich hedgerows to connect isolated pockets of biodiversity. These hedgerows, comprising native species like hawthorn, blackthorn, and field maple, will facilitate species movement and genetic exchange.
Historical Considerations
Our project doesn't exist in isolation from the rich history of the landscape. We're carefully navigating the presence of historical features, ensuring that any interventions will also serve to protect and showcase the area's cultural heritage.
Book Your Free Consultation
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Contact us today for a no-obligation consultation with our Land Team and learn how we can help you navigate natural capital markets successfully.