Hope Farm |
The farm
In 1999, the RSPB purchased Hope Farm, a 181-hectare farm in Cambridgeshire. On the farm we grow mainly autumn-sown crops (typically planted in September) in a three year rotation (wheat:wheat:oilseed rape). Autumn-sown crops are more profitable than the traditional spring-sown crops (typically planted in March), which is why they have become more common. Unfortunately, the structure of autumn-sown crops makes a less suitable habitat for breeding birds. At Hope Farm, we’re trying to find ways to help birds breed as successfully in autumn-sown crops as in spring-sown crops. All farming operations such as ploughing and harvesting are carried out for us by a neighbouring farmer. Along with the arable land, there are just over 5 ha of permanent pasture, which is grazed by horses and sheep. The soil is predominantly heavy clay. Key farm factsTotal farm area: 181 ha (450 acres)
Last modified: 21 July 2005 |
What can I do?At Hope Farm, the RSPB is developing farming techniques that will benefit wildlife |