Gwyndaf's simple slurry solution is worth £2,250

This has involved building a slurry store to accompany two new cattle sheds, and apart from the environmental benefits Gwyndaf, of Caer Graig Farm, Pwllheli, has seen a 20 per cent reduction in his organic fertiliser use.

“Soil testing has shown that phosphorus and potassium levels are mproving, which in turn means that grazing quality is improving,”

he said.

The slurry store idea has led to Gwyndaf, of Caer Graig Farm, Pwllheli becoming the latest winner of the Simple Solutions Farming Award. A joint venture by Environment Agency Wales and Farming Connect, the Award rewards farmers who make small scale changes to their farms in order to both improve profits and benefit the local environment.

His prize includes professional advice to the value of £1,000 from a Farming Connect approved consultant, along with £1,250 from Environment Agency Wales.

Design of the cattle sheds has ensured that very little surface water and roof water enters the slurry pit.

“Creating a small pond has also ensured that no water runs off the fields onto the public highway,”

said Gwyndaf, who is pictured on this month’s front cover.

Runners up were Teifion and Joanna Rees of Gilfach Farm, Llangadog who received a £750 grant for environmental improvements on their 280-acre organic sheep and pig farm.

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