research and development

staying at the forefront of modern agriculture
 
To ensure that we remain at the cutting edge of food production we are continually refining and developing our growing methods. We work in partnership with industry experts and research establishments to ensure that our farmers have access to the latest knowledge and techniques that will benefit our food production and the environment.
 
Our current research and development projects include:

Agrovista trial site

This site in conjunction with Agrovista at our Stoughton Estate near Leicester, runs wheat, barley and OSR trials to evaluate growing methods, new products and new techniques. These include fertiliser applications, cultivation methods, agro-chemicals and new varieties. 

nitrogen sensing

The Co-operative Farms is evaluating a tractor cab mounted nitrogen sensor which predicts the nitrogen needs in a crop by measuring the crop biomass. It then adjusts application rates accordingly, in real time, as the tractor and spreader is moving through the crop. This application method improves the efficiency of use of nitrogen within the field. 

independent trials

The Co-operative Farms has access to a vast bank of independent trial information, all of which is made available to our farmers.

collaborative research

We are taking part in a number of collaborative research projects that involve research institutions working together with farmers and the agricultural supply industry to develop new techniques that will benefit food production and the environment

soil management