An innovative agroecological market garden and teaching space
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Agroecology is sustainable farming that works with nature.
'A holistic and integrated approach that simultaneously applies ecological and social concepts and principles to the design and management of sustainable agriculture and food systems' (FAO)​
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The 10 elements of agroecology are; diversity, co-creation and sharing of knowledge, synergies, efficiency, recycling, resilience, human and social values, culture and food traditions, responsible governance, and circular and solidarity economy.
Regenerative agriculture focuses on soil and ecosystem regeneration around 5 key principles: minimal soil disturbance, keeping the soil surface covered, keeping living roots in the soil, growing a diverse range of crops, and integrating grazing livestock into the system.​
ABOUT
The GREAT Market Garden is an agroecological market garden and teaching space next to the RAU in Cirencester.
Funding from the Esmee Fairbairn Foundation has enabled FWAG SW to lead a partnership project to transition a 7-acre former arable field in Cirencester into a thriving agroecological market garden and teaching space for the community. The site is now producing sustainable food for local businesses and social enterprises, as well as helping students and the wider community to develop new skills and knowledge around regenerative horticulture.
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​GREAT stands for Gloucestershire Regenerative Environment and Agriculture Transition, and began life as a three-year project, funded by Thirty Percy, to boost the transition to farming methods that restore the soil, water and air. GREAT's impact and legacy was to join the dots between farmers, advisors, growers, mentors and their communities to facilitate the change that is urgently needed for a resilient future for farms, nature and the earth.
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The Great Market Garden and Great Woodlands projects grew from the seeds of the GREAT project.
OUR AIMS
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OUR AIMS
Growing
We’re growing a wide range of seasonal and agroecologically grown salads and vegetables. Including kale, tomatoes, lettuces, oriental greens, chillis, and a wide range of herbs and squashes. All grown without the use of chemicals in 'zerodig' growing beds.
Research
We’re building the evidence for regenerative farming, growing and food systems. By bringing farmers and new entrants together to share experiences, and carrying out trials and experiments, we’re finding out what works, what’s needed, and how to make it happen.
Learning
We’re supporting farmers, growers and new entrants to innovate, develop new skills and grow their own businesses. We’re running field visits for students to get hands on with learning about soil, volunteer sessions for the wider community, and courses in woodland and horticultural skills.