Two leading research centres have joined the LEAF Network as centres of excellence for sustainable farming.

Agrii’s Throws Farm Technology Centre and Newcastle University Farms are the latest establishments to join the LEAF Network.

They join a UK-wide network of farms and research centres, advancing the science and practical application of more sustainable, regenerative farming, delivered through Integrated Farm Management (IFM).

Read more: New ambassadors for LEAF Open Farm Sunday

Agrii is a leading provider of agronomy services, giving advice to a 280 strong agronomist network reaching 35% of UK farms. Its Throws Farm, in Essex, is its R and D centres, carrying out applied research into integrated crop management strategies, including varietal selection, fertiliser and nutrient use efficiency, ‘greener’ pesticides, novel biosolutions, soil health and IPM.

Newcastle University Farms totals 800 ha across two sites in Northumberland, in a diverse mixed farming enterprise which uses precision technology across all grass and arable land. Research areas are wide-ranging with current emphasis on IFM approaches in both crops and livestock, aiming to deliver ‘sustainable intensification’ through regenerative agriculture.