Local Food: Future Farms

Community Initiatives, Food & Agriculture

The residents of the village of Martin, Hampshire, have formed a co-operative to grow their own food and wean themselves off supermarkets. 101 of Martin’s 164 households have signed up as members of Future Farms for an annual £2 fee. The “community allotment” raises 45 types of vegetable, as well as pigs and chickens, on 8 acres of rented land. The enterprise has an annual turnover of £27,000, with all profits being ploughed back into the business. Produce is priced on a ‘production cost plus 20%’ basis, and is sold to all villagers, not just members, at a weekly market at the village hall. Future Farms is careful to avoid the use of the word ‘organic’, but says they “work the enterprise on an extensive system using the minimum of chemical inputs”.

I remember reading a colour supplement article about Future Farms a couple of years ago. To my shame, I thought it was a great idea that wouldn’t last. I’m delighted to admit I was wrong. The enterprise has not just survived but expanded to incorporate locally-produced lamb and honey, with plans for soft fruit and dairy products. This is how villages used to be, a real community, and I wish I lived there.

‘The real Good Life’

Future Farms

Pete Smith @ April 20, 2008