CATCHMENT Sensitive Farming (CSF) has been staging workshops on soil husbandry across the South-West this summer. Martin and Alison Howard of Lower Northcott, near Launceston, hosted one such event in August, which over 70 farmers from the River Tamar and Rivers Strat and Neet catchments attended.

The Howard's desire a more sustainable method of farming which hinges on soil health by improving the physical, biological and chemical aspects of soil. A healthy soil is one which will return more profit through improved nutrient utilisation, moisture retention and, consequently, crop growth and will reduce losses to the environment.

Local contractors and machinery dealers kindly supported the day by demonstrating a range of aerators and top-soilers for removing soil compaction and grass drills suitable for minimum tillage drilling.

For the full report, and a round up of the area news and sport, see this week's edition of the 'Post'.