Biodiversity in & around arable fields at Green Acres

Britain's biodiversity has been in decline since the arrival of the first mesolithic farmer around 7,000 years ago saw the clearing and cultivation of native woodland and grasslands.

This decline accelerated through successive agricultural and industrial revolutions to the point where the UK is among the most nature-depleted countries in Europe with only half of its natural biodiversity remaining. Over the last 50 years, 41% of UK species have declined under pressure from agriculture, urbanisation, pollution and climate change.

With 72% of UK land managed for agriculture, farming as a key role to play in protecting and even restoring biodiversity. More farms are showing how this can be done both within and around productive land.

The organic fields at Green Acres Farm in Shropshire are filled with diversity, both agrobiodiversity in the species, varieties and populations of crops, and wider biodiversity from healthy soil microbia to a flourishing range of plant, insect, animal and bird species.

Mark and Liz Lea have grown organic peas of many varieties for us for over the last 10 years, including yellow, blue, marrowfat and most often beautiful maple or carlin peas, with distinctive purple flowers and red-brown mature peas.

Carlin peas in flower at Green Acres Farm, Kemberton, Shropshire

The farm produces a wide range of other crops, including a wide range of heritage and population wheats, oats and sometimes other crops like buckwheat.

Many of the cereals at Green Acres are grown through ‘living mulches’.This approach protects the soil, reduces the need for tillage & fixes nitrogen whilst at the same time provides a valuable in-field habitat for invertebrates.

Wheat growing through clover mulch

Grass field margins play a key role in supporting wider biodiversity on farms. These strips of vegetation around the edges of arable fields are often vibrant with wildflower species in the spring. Year-round they provide vital habitats for many plant and animal species.

• Habitat for Wildlife: Field margins can provide a sanctuary for wildlife including insects, birds and small mammals. The vegetation offers shelter, nesting sites and sources of food.
• Enhancing Pollination: Flowering plants in field margins attract pollinators including bees and butterflies. By providing them with a nearby habitat, field margins support their populations and promote effective pollination. 🪱 Soil Protection: The vegetation in field margins helps prevent soil erosion by reducing the impact of wind and water runoff. Plant roots hold the soil in place, preventing valuable topsoil from being washed away. This protects the fertility of the land and helps maintain water quality and reduce flooding.
• Natural Pest Control: Field margins can act as a natural barrier, attracting beneficial insects that prey on pests harmful to crops. By promoting a balanced ecosystem, we reduce the need for synthetic pesticides.
• Biodiversity Hotspots: Field margins contribute to biodiversity by increasing the number of plant and animal species in the farmed environment. Field margins are an important part of agroecological farming.

Wildflowers in the 6m grass margin of Mark and Liz Lea’s silage field at Green Acres Farm in Shropshire.

Read more about Green Acres and other farms we work with in Sheaf: Harvest 2022.

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