Regenerative farmer and ‘conservation champion’ in Kent wins top award on CLA farm visit

A Kent regenerative farmer has been presented with a top conservation award for his work supporting “a rich tapestry of life” on his land.

The Country Land and Business Association (CLA), which represents hundreds of farmers, landowners and rural businesses across the county, awarded its Emsden Trophy this week.

The awards presentation and drinks reception was hosted by last year’s winner, Watts Farms based in Farningham.

The 2024 recipient is Neil Anderson, a livestock farmer near Sittingbourne, as nominated by Kent Farming & Wildlife Advisory Group (FWAG).

His mixed farm in Kingsdown, near Sittingbourne, is a 430-acre holding comprising a diverse mosaic of cereal crops, wild flowers, margins, hedgerows and a suckler herd, providing a rich ecosystem.

Mr Anderson has nurtured the land through a focus on soil health, reduced chemical inputs and integrated pest management combined with provision of safe nesting, breeding and feeding sites for native wildlife.

He said: “I’m really pleased to receive this award, it’s great to be recognised for the conservation work.

“I have always felt that the environment comes first. A healthy environment should be central to supporting a healthy diet."

Mr Anderson’s suckler herd are fed on a grass-based system and travel less than four miles to the local family-owned butcher. High animal welfare, a low carbon footprint and food rich in nutrients are important values. He has also hosted several dung beetle workshops and bat walks, evidencing how natural cycles are thriving on his farm.

CLA South East Regional Director Tim Bamford said: “Many congratulations to Neil, who is a very worthy winner. The CLA is always thrilled to recognise the conservation and environmental efforts of farmers, and this year is no different.

“Farmers and landowners across the Garden of England are custodians of the landscape, as well as helping to feed the nation, and we’re proud to celebrate their work in this small way.

“Thank you to Caroline Ayears-Johnson and the Watts Farms team for hosting the tour and presentation, and we’re already looking forward to visiting Neil next summer to see first-hand the impressive work he does.”

Kent FWAG adviser Debbie Reynolds said: “On Neil’s farm, you'll find a rich tapestry of life. His journey is a testament to the belief that true progress lies in working with nature, not against it. By embracing methods such as crop rotation, cover cropping, and managing soil health he has reduced reliance on chemical inputs and contributed to the resilience of the local environment.

“Neil shows us that sustainable farming is not just a hypothesis but a practical, achievable reality. The Emsden award allows us to celebrate a legacy of conservation and a vision for the future of farming.

“Thank you Neil for your unwavering commitment to farming with nature, your open door policy for hosting workshops and guided walks, and for showing us all that with dedication and care, we can cultivate a better world.”

The event, which is supported by BTF Partnership, is held in memory of Brigadier Brian Emsden, the Kent and Sussex CLA Regional Secretary in the 1980s who died of cancer in post. He was very keen on wildlife and conservation, hence the award in his name.