We are working with small-scale growers in Carmarthenshire on a ‘library’ of machinery to help production, biodiversity and soil health.
About the project
With the help of a network of local growers, we have been exploring the most appropriate tools, equipment and machinery that would help them increase the production of vegetables that are particularly key to the public sector (schools and care homes). We are also working with experts from Lantra and Sustainable Farming Consultancy, as well as learning from generations of expertise from the wider farming community.
One of the barriers to increasing fruit and veg production, while also regenerating our soils, is having the correct machinery and equipment. As part of this project, Social Farms & Gardens has purchased a range of items that will increase small-scale growers’ capacity, such as two-wheel tractors with a broad range of attachments. Bringing in learning from Benthyg and other lending libraries, we are co-developing a mechanism that will allow the machinery to be shared equitably and accessibly.
It’s hoped that this small pilot will catalyst a shift in edible horticulture across Carmarthenshire, and south west Wales, with more growers and farmers diversifying into fruit and veg production to meet a growing demand for local, nutritious produce.
This project sits alongside the Food Systems Development Project in Carmarthenshire and the work of Bwyd Sir Gâr Food.
The machinery ring is funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund through Carmarthenshire County Council.
Contact
For more information about the equipment sharing project, please contact Alison Sheffield at Social Farms & Gardens or Augusta Lewis at Bwyd Sir Gar Food.
If you'd like to get involved or want to know more about our work in Wales, please email [email protected].