A social enterprise aiming to show the world that healthy soil can protect our future has opened a second Hampshire site to produce more local veg.
Hampshire Market Garden CIC has launched a market garden at The Lockerley Estate, marking a significant step forward in its mission to promote food security and climate resilience.
The expansion will allow staff to strengthen their commitment to regenerative and organic farming while helping more businesses and food banks across the county.
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Director and head grower Chris Huskins said: "Our mission is rooted in both practice and education. By cultivating this new site, we continue to
practice what we preach, demonstrating that farming with a focus on soil health is not only possible but essential for a sustainable future.
"The partnership with The Lockerley Estate aligns perfectly with our values, as the estate has long championed environmentally responsible and
regenerative farming.
"Together, we will showcase the power of soil health in producing
nutrient-dense food while regenerating the land. This partnership is an exciting opportunity to expand our impact."
(Image: Hampshire Market Garden) The new market garden, on the 2,000 hectare estate in Broughton, north of Romsey, will enable Hampshire Market Garden CIC to increase food production for local communities, offer additional educational opportunities for growers and schools, and enable greater collaboration with farmers and policymakers to advocate for soil-first farming.
"The fantastic team at the Lockerley Estate share our beliefs that healthy soil is the foundation of a resilient food system. With their support,
we can grow more food, train more people, connect more people to healthy food, and inspire wider adoption of regenerative practices."
Hampshire Market Garden is a not for profit community interest company dedicated to regenerative and organic farming.
(Image: Hampshire Market Garden) The first market garden, at Rushmere Farm in Hambledon, will continue to be the productive site that has developed over the last year with over 190 growing beds producing organic vegetables this year.
A whole host of organic veg goes to restaurants, pubs, cafes, shops and more, while workshops and events spread the word.
Hampshire Market Garden also donates a large amount of healthy organic food to local pantries, food projects, night shelters and more.
(Image: Hampshire Market Garden)
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