Courteenhall Farms, under the leadership of Johnny Wake, has become a shining example of sustainable and diversified farming. Spanning 230 hectares (570 acres) in Northamptonshire, the farm seamlessly integrates arable cropping with regenerative agriculture, renewable energy, biodiversity conservation and community engagement.
Johnny's approach balances profitability with environmental stewardship, setting a benchmark for modern, sustainable farming. At the heart of Courteenhall's success is a commitment to soil health and regenerative farming. The farm employs minimum tillage techniques on its Hanslope clay soils to enhance structure and reduce erosion. Organic manures, particularly poultry manure, replace artificial fertilisers, creating a closed-loop system where wheat grown on the farm is used for poultry feed, and the resulting manure enriches the soil. This circular approach reduces waste, cuts costs and improves soil fertility.
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Sustainability is embedded in every aspect of Courteenhall's operations. The farm harnesses 425kW of solar energy, uses ground source heat pumps and operates wind turbines to significantly lower its carbon footprint. A rainwater harvesting system further reduces reliance on mains water, conserving vital resources. Johnny has also reintroduced traditional Hereford cattle for extensive grazing, enhancing biodiversity and improving grassland management.
Through the Higher Tier Stewardship scheme, the farm has planted new hedgerows, restored water bodies and increased wildlife habitats, further cementing its commitment to conservation. Beyond environmental efforts, Courteenhall Farms actively engages with the local community. Johnny and his team run educational programmes, host farm visits, and plan to open a farm shop and cafe to market local produce while supporting other businesses.
These programmes strengthen the connection between food production and consumers, ensuring greater awareness of sustainable farming practices. Johnny's transition from a medical career to farming has given him a unique perspective on land management and sustainability. His expertise has earned him recognition as a speaker at events such as Groundswell.
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Courteenhall's impact was further validated in 2023 when the estate was awarded the prestigious Bledisloe Gold Medal by the Royal Agricultural Society of England for its contributions to farming, the environment and profitability. Upon receiving the British Farming Award, Johnny expressed his gratitude to his team.
He said: "I'm blown away, this means recognition for the whole team, they have put in so much work over the past few years and this award is for them. We are planning for the future, working with our community through schools, and bringing wildlife back to the farm. Engaging with the community is our license to practice, our license to farm."
By integrating sustainability with economic viability, Courteenhall Farms is paving the way for a resilient and environmentally responsible future in agriculture.
