Future Farm combatting ammonia emissions

Future Farm at Duchy College Stoke Climsland, a cutting-edge dairy research facility part of The Cornwall College Group (TCCG), was recently selected to feature in an upcoming video showcasing its innovative approach to reducing ammonia emissions and promoting sustainable practices.

It will particularly address the pressing issue of 87% of UK ammonia emissions originating from farming, leading to nitrogen loss in the air.

The video is one of a number of farmer video case studies, created in partnership with sustainable farming charity LEAF (Linking Environment And Farming) and Catchment Sensitive Farming (CSF), a programme led by Natural England in partnership with Defra, the Environment Agency and the Forestry Commission.

Each video case study looks at different areas of sustainable farming and aims to assist farmers and their advisers in improved approaches in a cost effective and practical way.

For Anthony Baggaley, Future Farm manager, the work and research conducted by the team at Stoke Climsland, is “crucial in shaping the future of sustainable farming.”

“Dairy farms can reduce ammonia and methane loss by improving slurry management and changing cow diets, with potential savings and livestock health benefits,” Antony explained. The Farm’s trials to lower protein levels in livestock feed, reducing ammonia emissions without compromising dairy cow productivity or fertility will also be featured in the film.

It also underscores the significance of how low emission flooring in the facility’s cubicle shed enables separation and swift removal of urine and faeces.

These practices, coupled with more frequent scraping, not only reduce ammonia emissions but also enhance foot health in cattle.

The video will be available later in the year on the Catchment Sensitive YouTube channel.

Other videos in the series look at the following; improving nutrient use efficiency, rainwater harvesting from cattle housing, improving soil structure through strip tilling and cover cropping, regenerative agricultural practices for clean air and water, slurry management for clean air and water, protecting soil and water through Integrated Pest Management and protecting soil and water in West Cornwall.

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