Farmer Membership

Farmer Membership Farming faces a new era with the effects of Brexit and new trade deals, changes to support payments coupled with the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic and the ongoing effects of the climate crisis. Farmers are looking to develop smart business strategies to boost efficiencies and build long term economic, environmental and social resilience.

LEAF supports farmers with the business, technical and consumer engagement solutions needed for a profitable and sustainable future. We work at a farmer-led, grass roots level providing management tools, resources, and practical on-farm demonstration and training to support the uptake of more regenerative and climate smart farming through Integrated Farm Management (IFM).

Becoming a LEAF member is also the first step to LEAF Marque certification – a leading global environmental assurance system recognising more sustainably farmed products. LEAF Marque businesses are recognised in the marketplace for their environmental commitments delivered through improved soil management, more efficient water use, improved energy efficiency, best practice Integrated Pest Management, reducing waste, boosting biodiversity and community outreach.

LEAF Farmer membership and LEAF Marque certification can unlock significant financial benefits for the business in relation to on-farm cost-savings, additional income, market benefits and adherence to regulatory requirements. IFM provides a clear framework to move business forward, save money and keep one step ahead.

Impact

Rewards

Value

Credibility

Improves farming practices

Increased gross margins

Brands value LEAF Marque businesses passion, expertise & consistency

LEAF Marque supports risk management, demonstrates due diligence, strengthens position around future government support

Improved biodiversity & public image

Based on research carried out in 2020-21 by Mike Read Associates.

“LEAF have very good connections with different stakeholders, and that is advantageous to us as a business.” LEAF Farmer Member “It pays to be a LEAF member, and the environment and locals communities benefit too.”

LEAF Farmer Member

For more information: Clare Mike, Director, Business Development | clare.mike@leaf.eco | 07375 672922

Benefits of membership • • • •

• • • • • • • • • • •

Access to the LEAF Sustainable Farming Review – an online self-assessment tool to help record, evaluate and farm more sustainably LEAF technical advice and support Strengthened market opportunities through an independently certified LEAF Marque assurance system Direct engagement with the leading organisation in Integrated Farm Management through o Technical talks by LEAF Staff and LEAF Farmers o Visits to LEAF Network of Demonstration Farms and Innovation Centres to see sustainable agriculture in practice o Priority places for LEAF and IFM community events & activities throughout the year Access (at reduced rates) to technical training in support of sustainable agriculture and IFM LEAF members’ e-news, newsletters, reports and communications Access to a range of useful LEAF membership tools and technical resources The latest IFM and industry news and information Close involvement with key policy and decision makers Promotion of farmer’s stories, achievements and developments via our communication channels Permission to add the LEAF logo to publications, promotional material and website Membership Plaque to display and demonstrate sustainability credentials Supply Chain Directory access 30% Discount on Information Boards for the farm LEAF lapel badge and car sticker

Recommended ‘Bolt-On’ Options Participate in LEAF Open Farm Sunday Visit a LEAF Demonstration Farm to see IFM in practice. Members can also nominate their own farm to become a LEAF Demonstration Farm.

Sign up for ‘Speak Out’ training to improve communication skills and share knowledge with other farmers and the public.

LEAF Farmer membership rates (reviewed annually in November, excl VAT): Farmer Tier 1 Farmer Tier 2 Farmer Tier 3 Farmer Tier 4

Under 121 hectares 121 – 404 hectares 405 – 700 hectares Over 700 hectares

£113 £221 £334 £442

Multi-year Membership Discounts

For overseas producer groups certified as GlobalG.A.P. Option 2, please enquire for membership rate.

For more information: Clare Mike, Director, Business Development | clare.mike@leaf.eco | 07375 672922