Contract Farming
at Lower Norton Farms
Contract Farming
In addition to farming our own land, we manage a further 1,000ha of arable cropping for four separate landowners through Contract Farming Agreements. We provide the labour, machinery and management expertise to run the farms, with costs jointly funded and revenue shared on a pre-agreed basis.
This approach allows economies of scale for both parties and access to the latest technology and up-to-date knowledge. We focus on building long-term, mutually beneficial relationships — reflected in the fact that we are now over 30 years into our first Contract Farming Agreement.
How We Farm
As an all arable farm, we combine high quality food production with a strong commitment to Countryside Stewardship, supporting healthy soils, thriving habitats and a resilient countryside. We strive to farm in a responsible and sustainable manner, balancing commercial considerations with care for the environment and stewardship of the beautiful patch of countryside we have the privilege to live and work in.
Our regenerative farming principles
We have adopted the core principles of regenerative farming, which has enabled us to improve the health of our soils, with a steady increase in soil organic matter, enhanced soil structure and greater resilience to cope with weather extremes. At the same time, we have achieved savings in fuel and labour. Healthy soils should allow us to reduce the quantity of manufactured fertilisers and sprays required, contributing to a system where we aim to sequester more carbon than we emit.
Regular Contracting
Services
As part of our wider farming and contracting operations, we undertake a number of regular contracting services for neighbouring farms, supporting day-to-day operations with a high quality, professional approach.
Regular contracting services include:
Hedge cutting
Seed drilling
Spraying
Topping
Environmental Stewardship Work
