The establishment of a “concept orchard and vineyard” showcasing the latest technology in automated systems, including automated and AI management systems, innovative crop diversity, cleaner storage, and robotic fruit picking is now well underway.
We will be educating Hadlow students as the farmers of the future to operate and manage these sustainable systems and develop concepts for real change in the sector, for an efficient, economic, healthy and sustainable farming industry.
In line with the collaborative project across Kent with the Chamber of Commerce and Kent’s Further Education Colleges, Hadlow College will be looking at decarbonisation and skills shortages in identified industry sectors.
With the support of the Chamber of Commerce and local industry specialists Hadlow College is focusing on the Food Production industry.
The crops being grown include Apple, Pears, Cherries, Apricots and other Prunus. A section of the orchard has been devoted to viticulture producing a crop of grapes but with the training emphasis being on how to set up and manage a vineyard. Cherries will be grown under plastic and intensive production systems will be used to maximise the potential yield of all crops. The planning of the orchard has been conducted in conjunction with industry to ensure we are meeting the future demands of the industry.
The crops will be grown with sustainability in mind at all times. Drones will be used to monitor bud set, predict yields and monitor the growth of the crop allowing precise applications of nutrition, pest and disease control methods to be used.
Sensors will be installed throughout the orchard to monitor amongst other things moisture, relative humidity, PAR, rain fall plus other exciting sensors which are currently being developed.
What is the primary goal of sustainable farming?
The basic goals of sustainable agriculture are environmental health, economic profitability, and social and economic equity (sometimes referred to as the “three legs” of the sustainability stool).
What are the five goals of sustainable agriculture?
Enhance environmental quality and natural resources. Use non-renewable resources more efficiently. Take better advantage of on-farm resources. Employ natural and biological controls for pests and disease.
Sustainable agriculture – what are the challenges?
- Growing enough food. While the world population is increasing, the amount of arable land per capita is diminishing.
- Loss of usable land.
- Energy.
- Climate change.
- Resources.
- Political and legal requirements.
- Cost and efficiency pressure.
Is there a future for sustainable agriculture?
- It is predicted that by the year 2050, the world will need approximately 70% more food than is currently being produced to sustain the growing world population. Sustainable farming techniques revolve around optimally using natural resources while not harming the environment in any way.
What makes plants more sustainable?
Eliminating waste and providing the right amounts of nourishment and hydration are the common-sense keys to sustainable gardening. Reducing both waste and the need for chemicals provide dual benefits by helping your garden grow while protecting the environment.
Check back for more sustainability blogs as our project develops.
