A celebratory event has marked the completion of a pioneering Net Zero pilot demonstrator project undertaken by two farms in the Test Valley.
Farmers, local leaders and sustainability advocates attended the gathering, held at Romsey's Gambledown Farm, to recognise the achievements made.
The project, launched in July 2024, saw Michelmersh Manor Farm and Goddards Farm trialling new farming techniques aimed at reducing their environmental impact.
The farms received nearly £25,000 funding from Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC), which came from the Government's UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
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Farmers, local leaders and sustainability advocates attended the gathering. (Image: Test Valley Borough Council) At the celebratory event, TVBC councillors Nick Lodge and David Drew were joined by local farmers, parish councillors and representatives from partner agencies.
Tim Brock, farming consultant at project partner IncuHive, hosted the event and premiered documentary Growing the Future, a documentary chronicling of the project.
Attendees learned about a variety of sustainable farming techniques and the results they achieved in this important venture.
Information and networking opportunities were also provided by TVBC for industry insiders and policymakers.
TVBC leader, Cllr Phil North, highlighted the significance of these trials in shaping the future of sustainable agriculture in Test Valley.
He said: "We are incredibly proud of what has been achieved through this project.
"The insights gained from these farms will not only benefit the local farming community but also contribute to broader efforts in sustainable land management."
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The event also served as a launchpad for discussing further advancement of sustainable practices across the region, strengthening Test Valley’s commitment to agricultural innovation and environmental responsibility.
George Scott-Welsh, CEO of IncuHive, highlighted the successful collaboration between TVBC and his organisation.
He said: "The collaboration between IncuHive and Test Valley Borough Council has been a fantastic example of how local government and business can work together to make a tangible impact.
"By providing the funding and framework for these trials, TVBC has enabled real, on-the-ground innovation in sustainable farming.
"The success of this initiative not only benefits the participating farms but provides information and inspiration for farms across Test Valley and beyond.
"We are proud to be part of this pioneering effort and look forward to continuing our work in sustainability."
The project will culminate in March, with the results and key findings posted on the TVBC and IncuHive websites to guide future sustainable farming efforts.
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