Integrated Farm Management Policy

Withers Fruit Farm LTD

The management of Withers Fruit Farm LTD is committed to Nature’s Choice Code of Practice and all areas covered by it. As a farm, we use an integrated management approach; considering biological, cultural and chemical controls to encourage biodiversity and sustainability within our farming environment.

We aim to combine traditional and modern farming practices and work in partnership with industry experts and research establishments to ensure we have access to the latest knowledge and techniques to benefit our food production and the environment. With their help we can target pesticides and fertilisers more effectively to reduce possible harmful side effects on the environment.

Integrated crop management can also help to control costs and maximise product output.

The Integrated Management Plan covers the following:

Rational Use of Pesticide.
Rational Use of Fertilisers and Manures.
Pollution Prevention.
Protection of Human Health.
Efficient use of Energy, Water and Other Natural Resources.
Recycling and Re-use of Materials.
Wildlife and Landscape Conservation and Enhancement.
Community relations

Rational use of Pesticide Policy

1.1 Non-pesticide prevention and control measures.

Non pesticide methods include:
Weeds – plastic mulch or hand weeding.
Pests – integrated Pest management includes biological control methods such as Mass Trapping, Phytoseiulus, Amblysieus Cucumeris, Aphiscouts and Orius in order to be able to control 2-spotted spider mites, Aphids, Tarsonemid mites and Thrips respectively. It also includes the use of field margins and beetle banks to encourage predators such as ladybirds and parasitic wasps.
Disease – whenever possible use disease resistant varieties & removal of organic matter to prevent over-winter host sites.

1.2 Justification for Pesticide Use

The decision to use pesticides will be based on risk assessment by way of crop monitoring to determine if relevant threshold has been exceeded. Basis-qualified consultants walk the crop regularly and provide pesticide advice. A copy of their certificates is held in the Farm Office.

Advisor	Certificate Number	Date Awarded
Dennis Wilson	E/3732/H	10/12/98
Graham Moore	R/E/2660/H
Ronald Marshall	R/E/6231/ICM

Regular crop monitoring will take place and the level of pests, disease and weeds will be determined and recorded during field walks by use of tentative guide thresholds from the current Assured Produce Crop Protocol for strawberries, apples and pears. If the thresholds have been exceeded, a pesticide selection and use will occur as per instructions issued by BASIS qualified advisor.

The Farm Management records all observations of pests, diseases and weeds when walking the farm. These observations are discussed with the BASIS-qualified advisors and then the written records kept together with the advisory sheets.

1.3 Pesticide Selection

Any pesticide (or Adjuvants) to be used and their maximum application rate or dose are in accordance to the relevant crops Crop Management Specification (CMS; i.e. strawberries). Any pesticides to be used that are not listed on the CMS need to be justified according to Nature’s Choice guidelines. The Basis qualified advisors issue a written report after each crop walk with observations and recommendations on the crop by field basis. Any spray applications in addition to those stated in the advisory sheets from the BASIS-qualified advisors are not made until the advisor is first contacted and a new recommendation has been issued. The Farm Management prints the spray tickets and hands them over to trained spray operators so they can proceed with the execution of the tasks.

1.4 Pesticide Application Procedures

The spray operators follow the guidelines set out in the “Green Code – Code of Practice for the Safe Use of Pesticide on Farms and Holdings”. A copy is kept in the workshop and in the office for the spray operators to use. Treatments will only be applied by those with the relevant NPTC Certificates of Competence. All Pesticide applications must be done properly to ensure an adequate control. The minimum rate required is used in order to comply.

On the spray tickets the operators fill in Health and Safety Check list before mixing pesticides. They also have to complete the form by writing the date, start and finish time of the application, weather conditions etc.

Vladislavs Voitkevics

Safe use of pesticides PA1, PA3A, PA3B, PA4S, PA6
Rough Terrain Forklift
Hand-held Applicators- Hydraulic Nozzle

Petko Popov

Safe use of pesticides PA1, PA3A, PA3B
Rough Terrain Forklift

Ovidiu-Florin Leasu

Safe use of pesticides PA1, PA3A, PA3B, PA4S
Rough Terrain Forklift

Svilen Stoyanov

Safe use of pesticides PA1, PA3B

* Copies of certificates are filed under “Certificates” in the office cabinet.

1.5 Instructions to Operators

Advisors send pesticide instructions to the farm via email which are then issued and printed by the Farm Management.

The instructions issued for applying pesticides stipulate crop location, area of treatment, rate of application, products, tank mixes, volume or water and the purpose for application. On the spray tickets the operators fill in Health and Safety Check list before mixing pesticides. They also have to complete the form by writing the date, start and finish time of the application as well as weather conditions.

All instructions that are given to the spray operators are discussed and if something is not clear the management will seek an advice from the Agronomists.

1.6 Confirmation of treatments

The operators record the health and safety section, the date and time, applicator and weather conditions every time when a treatment has been undertaken and return the written confirmation to the Farm Management, dated and signed. The operator returns the completed form to confirm that the treatments have been applied in accordance to the instructions.

At the end the management puts the information from the tickets onto Gate Keeper so the Harvest Manager can access the updated reports.

1.7 Record Keeping

Before harvesting commences Operations manager and the Harvest manager discuss Field Application Records to ensure that the fields to be picked have the necessary time elapsed since spraying.

A record of first permissible harvest date is then filled in by the harvest manager. All records are kept in the office and a copy is sent to Wye fruit.

1.8 Crop Record Sheet

The pesticide information is summarised by crop. The information that gets recorded is such as type of crop, harvest dates, application dates, location, product, harvest interval, rate, volume, target, equipment operator and weather conditions.

A detailed record of pesticide application is kept on Gatekeeper.

1.9 Control of Vertebrate Pests (birds, rats, mice, rabbits etc)

Use of non-chemical and non-prophylactic methods are firstly used to control rodents. The farm has constructed a rabbit fence around every apple tree and kiwi berry plant. If rabbit damage is noticed prunings are left on the ground in those susceptible areas and cages are used to trap and remove rabbits from that area.

1.10 Dispensing and Mixing of Pesticides

Pesticides are dispensed and mixed in accordance with adequate health and safety provision and to minimise pollution risk.

1.11 Pesticide Disposal

Pesticides are disposed in accordance with the “Green Code – Code of Practice for the Safe Use of Pesticide on Farms and Holdings”. It is our policy to avoid the need of disposing pesticides by purchasing a minimum stock required. If a need arises to dispose of pesticides we follow the guidelines below:

Concentrate	Either returned to manufacturer or engaging a suitable contractor.
Dilute	Disposed by either leaving in the tank for next spraying or applied to area that complies with MAFF Green Code – Code of Practice for the Safe Use of Pesticides on Farm Holdings.
Washing	Sprayed onto unsprayed crop provided it does not exceed the maximum permitted dose.
Containers	Containers:

Contaminated clothing, soil, sand, packaging or rodent bait is disposed of through a reputable and licensed contractor. A letter from the contractor as to their lawful disposal of contaminated waste is held in the Farm Office.

1.12 Pesticide Storage

Pesticides are stored in accordance with the Health and Safety Information Sheet No16 – Guidance on storing pesticide for farmers and other professional users. A detailed stock list of pesticides held in the store will be kept in the store and at the farm office.

All Chemical Safety Data sheets are filed in office cabinet under “Safety Data Sheets”

1.13 Storage of Personal Protective Equipment

PPE clothing is stored in a secure and separate cupboard according to the “Green Code – Code of Practice for the Safe Use of Pesticide on Farms and Holdings”. Spare PPE is kept in the Farm Office cupboard.

1.14 Storage and Maintenance of Pesticide Application Equipment

Application equipment is stored in the designated area of the tractor shed, under cover. This is a secure and well-ventilated unit, separate from the pesticide. A copy of all calibrations is kept in the office. The operators record the dates of calibration and maintenance in the farm’s maintenance folder. The Farm Management is responsible for checking the equipment maintenance and calibration schedule and ensuring that the records of all actions taken are in according to the manufacture Owner’s Manual. Before the season starts all sprayers must be checked by a competent person (NSTS)

2 Rational use of Fertilisers Policy

2.1 General Principles

Use of Fertiliser is in accordance with the MAFF Codes of Good Agriculture for Protection of Water, Soil and Air. Fertiliser applications are executed at recommended level so we can maintain the soil fertility for optimal production with minimal impact on the environment. Fertiliser applications are based on soil analysis. Soil pH and existing levels of key nutrients such as phosphate, potash and magnesium can be taken into account when making fertiliser application decisions. Fertiliser recommendations are done by an Advisor who is FACTS registered and provided with recent soil analysis, leaf analysis and cropping history information as required. A copy of the FACTS certificate, recommendations from Advisors, Soil and Leaf Analysis is held in the Farm Office.

Advisor	Certificate Number	Date Awarded
Dennis Wilson	FE / 1575	26/02/1999
Graham Moore	R/E/2660/H
Ronald Marshall	R/E/6231/ICM

2.2 Nitrogen Application to Soil Grown Crops

The farm is in NVZ, so all the applications are made according to NVZ rules. Manufactured nitrogen fertiliser applications (we do not use organic manures) are made according to “Guidance for the Farmers in NVZ”:

Use of nitrogen fertiliser application is planned for each crop in each field, following 4-step process:

STEP 1	Calculate the amount of nitrogen in the soil that is likely to be available for uptake by the crop during the growing season (the soil nitrogen supply)
STEP 2	Calculate the optimum amount of nitrogen there should be applied to the crop, taking into account the soil nitrogen supply ( the crop nitrogen requirement)
STEP 3	Calculate the amount of nitrogen, from any planned applications of organic manure, that likely to be available for crop uptake in the growing season in which it is spread (the crop available nitrogen); and
STEP 4	Calculate the amount of manufactured nitrogen fertiliser required

No manufactured nitrogen fertiliser is spread during defined closed spread periods- 1Sept-1Feb
Before spreading manufactured nitrogen fertiliser field inspection is carried out.
The records of the plan and record details of actual nitrogen application(s) is kept in the office.

Nitrogen application is made to match the optimal need such as from late spring onwards but applied in a way to prevent leaching (i.e. avoid application prior to rainfall). Conservation areas, wildlife corridors or water-courses have no fertiliser application by using of boundary areas (See Farm Map – in farm office cabinet under “Maps”). Fertiliser applications are made using the most appropriate methods such as:

	METHOD	Application Equipment	Use
1	Fertigation	Trickle System	Post planting
2	Soil	Spreader	Pre-Planting

Nitrogen application takes into account the crop need, crop residue and application of any organic matter or leaching from the soil. Leaf analysis is taken during the spring for apples and kiwis and once a month for strawberries to determine nitrogen requirements.

To avoid any pollution the operators are reminded about spreading controls-“NVS rules”

2.3 Phosphate, Potassium and Magnesium Application to Soil Grown Crops

Samples of Soil are analysed by FAST, a reputable and qualified analytical laboratory. Soil samples are taken in the winter for each crop and field, or as required. A representative and random soil sample is taken from any field to be analysed. Fertiliser Application Equipment is maintained and used so an accurate and efficient spreading is achieved.

2.4 Farm Yard and Organic Manure Application

Withers Farm does not apply manure.

2.5 Fertiliser Application

Fertiliser maintenance and calibration is recorded and filed in the office under “Calibration”.

	Application Equipment	Maintenance Date	Calibration Date
1	Trickle	Throughout the season	Pre Season
2	Spreader	Pre Season	Pre Season

2.6 Fertiliser Storage

Fertilisers are stored in a container on the farm. It is secure so we can minimise the risk of pollution in the event of an accident. Outside fertiliser storage occurs if there is no risk for pollution due to damage caused by the weather (such as dry solid fertiliser being leached due to rain damage). The Fire Service does not have to be notified if the dangerous chemicals do not exceed 25 tonnes. Fertilisers classified as oxidisers are transported in accordance with appropriate regulations, and by a licensed and reputable company. A letter from the Transport Company as to their lawful transport of fertiliser is held in the Farm Office.

2.7 Application Instructions and Records

Written instructions for applying fertiliser are issued by BASIS-qualified advisers. All applications prior to applying them are first discussed with an advisor (FACTS registered). The operators are issued with instructions for application of the fertiliser. The operator then confirms fertilisers applied in accordance with instructions. Date, crop, field, application equipment, operator, type, amounts and timing of fertiliser applications are recorded and a copy kept in the main office.

3 Pollution Prevention Policy

3.1 Pollution Audit

Withers Fruit Farm carries out a pollution audit to determine the potential of pesticide, fertiliser and oil contaminating the environment in respect to soil, water and air. A copy is held in the Farm Office.

3.2 Soil, Water and Air Protection

Sound husbandry practices are used to protect the environment such as cultivation and careful use of Fertilisers. Pesticides and Fertilisers are applied in a responsible way according to the Soil, Water and Air Good Agricultural codes to prevent contamination of ground or surface water, or water supply abstraction points beyond permissible levels. In regards to this, a water survey that covers all farm boundaries is sourced from the Environment Agency on an annual basis. Should this Farm ever be found to have exceeded permitted levels an investigation is conducted and appropriate actions taken to rectify the results

To prevent contamination of water due to Pesticide, Fertiliser and Oils the following actions are taken:

Pesticide – Stored in a separate and secure store that is bunded to hold 110% of volume at any one time.
Fertiliser – Stored either inside in a secure building or area to prevent damage to containers due to leakages or punctures caused by vehicle and tractor movement.
Oil – Stored in a tank that has been bunded to hold 110% of volume.

Storage site has been chosen so that in the event of fire, the run-off should be unlikely to contaminate waterways above permitted levels.

Disposal of pesticides has been outlined in section on “Rational Use of Pesticide”. Polythene is sent for recycling too.

3.3 Chemical Residue in Water

The locations of waterways and abstraction points (i.e. bore holes) in the vicinity to this farm, and ground water sources have been recorded on Farm map (filed in office under “Maps) as part of Wildlife and Landscape Plan. The Environment Agency’s water monitoring sites are used to confirm that no contamination of water above permitted levels has occurred. Copies of these measurements are held in the farm office.

3.4 Fuel and Lubricant Storage

Tanks have been checked according to the Environment Agency guidelines (PPG2). Both the inlet and outlet points are contained within the area and there are no outlet points for drainage. A bucket filled with sand for spills is also present

3.5 Pesticide Storage

Refer to 1.11

3.6 Pesticide Disposal

Refer to 1.10

3.7 Fertiliser Storage

Refer to 2.6

3.8 Storage and Use of Acid

Refer to 4.7

4 Protection of Human Health Policy

4.1 Chemical Residues in Food and Water

Monitoring of chemical residue in food is undertaken by Berry World Ltd. Samples of crop are supplied for analysis as directed by Berry World Ltd to do so. Wye Fruit Ltd sends the samples for testing. Copies of Analysis results are held in the farm office. Records of all chemicals used in production are recorded.

4.2 Pesticide Residue in Food

Risk assessment in relation to pesticide residue in food is co-ordinated by Berry World Ltd. Crop samples for residue testing are provided as directed by Berry World Ltd.

4.3 Safety

We seek to comply with relevant safety legislation, such as:

Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulation 1994 (COSHH)

Withers Fruit Farm has a Health and Safety policy in conjunction with NFU support service.

COSHH and RISK Assessments, and Safety Instructions are held for the following Farm Activities:

Harvesting (Intervals)
Driving
Fire On Campsite
Fire in Chemical store
Pesticide handling
Pesticide application
Fertiliser use
Potentially dangerous implements

4.4 Storage of Personal Protective Equipment.

Refer to Section 1, Rational use of Pesticide Policy.

4.5 Storage of Pesticide Application Equipment

Refer to Section 1, Rational use of Pesticide Policy.

4.6 Storage of Acid

Acids are held in tanks stored within the pump houses. There is a COSHH assessment completed in regards to use and storage of acid.

4.7 Storage, Use and Disposal of Hazardous Materials

A reputable licensed waste disposal company is contracted to disposed of hazardous waste should the need ever occur. If this happens a letter is obtained from the company as to their lawful disposal of waste and be held in the Farm Office.

4.8 Health Screening

As there is limited or no use of organophosporus the need for biological monitoring of staff is unnecessary. All staff is completing Hygiene and Medical screening declaration before they start work.

4.9 First Aid

The contact persons for First Aid are Petko Popov, Svilen Stoyanov, Mihai Stefanescu and Ventsislav Tsankov. They have obtained a certificate in First Aid (copy of certificate held in the Farm Office filed under “Certificates). The main First Aid boxes are located in the farm office, student office, workshop as well as in the farm vehicles such as trucks and busses and a basic first aid box is held by every supervisor when working in the field.

4.10 Fire Service Notification

Not a statutory requirement.

4.11 Noise Levels

The Farm activities where noise levels are excessive include the following:

Chain sawing + long pruners
Strimming
Use of power tools such as grinders, drills, generators etc
Workshop activities

Suitable protective equipment as outlined in COSHH Assessment is always worn.

4.12 Equipment and Vehicle Installation

Farm Equipment, Installations and Vehicles have both Schedule Maintenance and Safe Operating Procedures (as outlined in Owner’s Manuals) which include the following:

Land Rovers
Vans
Mini-bus
Tractors
Tele Handlers
Sprayers

Svilen Stoyanov is responsible for the maintenance scheduling of farm machinery which generally takes place pre-season. A folder with all tractor maintenance and service is kept in the work shop. If any major or potentially dangerous problems arise the machine is taken out of use until it is rectified by competent contractor. Small faults are rectified on farm by staff.

Copies of owner’s manual with record of maintenance and action taken are held in farm office.

4.13 Electrical Equipment

Installing and maintenance of electrical equipment is completed by a reputable and licensed electrical contractor. Copies of invoices for work completed are held in the Main office. All portable electric appliances are PAT tested.

4.14 Operators of Equipment and Vehicles

For Equipment and Vehicles used on this farm we have their respective operators and licenses which are held in the farm office

4.15 Operation of Vehicles and Pedestrian traffic

There is a formalised system to separate vehicular and pedestrian traffic as much as possible. (Map)

4.16 Sewage

No sewage used at this farm. All waste from campsite is disposed by contactor.

4.17 Risk Assessment

We have current membership to Assured Produce Scheme (4699). HACCP’s are in place for the harvesting and handling of produce (Copy held in Farm Office). In relation to seasonal picking staff, Berry World Growers Manual outlines Good Manufacturing Practice in relation to:

Personal Hygiene
Environmental Hygiene
Pest Control

5 Efficient Use of Energy, Water and Other Natural Resources Policy

5.1 Energy

When new vehicles, buildings, equipment etc are to be purchased, their energy efficiency is always considered. For maintenance schedules of vehicles and heating equipment refer to Section 4, Protection of Human Health.

5.2 Use and Conservation of Water

In regards to permission to source water and to take relevant quantities, refer to Section 3.2, Soil, Water and Air Protection. In regards to water being of suitable quality refer to Section 4.1, Chemical Residues in Food and Water. Our micro-irrigation system prevents run-off and is the most efficient movement of water to the crop. Irrigation system is controlled so the flow rate can match the infiltration capacity of growing media. A re-circulated system is not relevant. Water application happens at set-up intervals during the day to minimise loss by evaporation. Leaks are checked and repaired prior to start of season.

6 Recycling and Re-use of Materials

6.1 Recycling of Plastic

Plastic such as mulch is recycled when feasible. Otherwise, plastic pesticide containers are disposed of in accordance with the “Green Code” (refer to Section 1.11, Pesticide Disposal) or disposed of by a reputable and licensed contractor. Contractors used for recycling or disposal are asked for a letter as to their lawful recycling or disposal of the plastic and held in the Farm Office.

6.2 Recycling of Metal and Glass

Waste metal and glass is recycled when feasible. Otherwise a reputable and licensed waste contractor disposes it of them. A letter is requested from the recycling or disposal contractor as to their lawful recycling or disposal of the metal or glass (Copy held in Farm Office).

6.3 Use and Recycling of Paper and Card

Paper and Card products used contain recycled products when feasible. Paper and card products used from this site are recycled when possible.

6.4 Use and Recycling of Timber Products

Tropical hard woods are not used on this farm. Instead negligible timber is used. Pallets are sourced and returned to contractor. Invoices from different companies are kept in Farm Office. Pallets are repaired whenever possible given the cost for non-return to contractor. Waste timber only occurs in negligible amounts.

6.5 Recycling or Waste Oil

Fuel tanks are bunded and any waste oil would be collected and held within the bunded area (volume within the bunded area always less than 110% bund capacity). Any waste is sent for re-processing to a reputable and licensed contractor. A letter is requested from the waste contractor as to their lawful disposal of the oil (Copy held in Farm Office).

6.6 Use and Recycling of Straw

Waste straw is cultivated back into the land at end of production so there is no need to dispose of straw off-farm.

6.7 Use and Recycling of Rubble

Rubble and aggregate is re-used when feasible.

6.8 Use and Recycling of Substrate

Substrate is re-used when feasible by other growers mainly top fruit ones. (Copy held in Farm Office).

6.9 Use and Recycling of other Raw Materials

Other raw materials are re-used when feasible. Consideration is given to use materials that will have minimal environmental impact.

6.10 Storage of Waste for Re-utilisation

Adequate storage facilities are used for holding waste until it is collected.

7 Wildlife and Landscape Conservation and Enhancement

7.1 Integrated Management Plan

This Farm has a policy to conserve and enhance the flora, fauna and landscape. This plan has been constructed by contractor and reviewed on an annual basis. A copy of the Plan and annual review with action taken is held in Farm Office.

7.2 Wildlife Protection and Enhancement Proposals

Threatened species or habitats are vital to the management of this company. Any potential species or habitats on this farm have been marked on the Farm map. There are no officially designated environmental sites on this Farm. This Farm takes into account all key environmental habitats and features that have been identified and marked on the Farm Map. These features have buffer zones (Refer to Map) by use of field margins. These margins are untouched and no pesticide or fertiliser is applied to them in addition to statutory obligations for the provision of buffer zones (i.e. 5m near waterways and 1m near dry ditches, LERAPs). The use of these buffer zones such as LERAP’s is reviewed annually. The Areas set aside for wildlife have been marked on the Farm Map. Potential for creating new habitat areas is considered each year and noted as part of the review of the Wildlife and Landscape Plan (Copy of annual review and action taken held in Farm Office).

7.3 Landscape Protection

As part of the Wildlife and Landscape Plan existing landscape features have been noted in this plan. Presently, the features noted in the Plan are being maintained. Foot paths and bridle ways are maintained and listed in the Wildlife and Landscape Plan. Where new features are considered then their impact on the existing environment is always considered.

7.4 Rented Land

Rented land is also managed in an environmental responsible manner that fully meets Nature’s Choice requirements.

8 Relations with community

Whenever possible we try to recruit staff and contractors from the local population and deal with local businesses. However decisions are made based on sound business reasoning and not compromising the ultimate performance. Bear in mind the environmental benefits of local staff and contractors having shorter distances to travel to your farm and housing issues.
Donations. We are happy to help financially St. Michaels Hospice, Ledbury Catholic Church, Growing Point, NSPCC Ledbury, Wellington Heath Church and few others as much as we can. We are happy to share our best produce in their organised events as well as with Withers Farm’s neighbours on some occasions.
We have children coming from Elms School (aged 5-6) to visit our farm. We are happy to show them how the fruits are grown and let them try to pick by themselves.

FARM CHECK LIST

Rational use of Pesticide

1. Policy statements.

2. Crop Management Specification for relevant crops (Strawberries, Blueberries, Kiwi berries, Apples

3. Green Code – Code of Practice for the Safe Use of Pesticides on Farms and Holdings.

4. HSE Information Sheet No 16

5. Basis Advisor Name and Copy of Certificate

6. Crop Monitoring Threshold Document (i.e. Assured Produce Crop Protocol)

7. Crop Monitoring records produced by Advisor.

9. NPTC certificates (PA1 plus other ones relevant to type of application equipment used.)

10. Completed “Instructions to Operator” and “Confirmation of Treatments” form.

11. Completed “Pesticide Record” or “Crop Record” Sheets.

12. Completed record to verify crops picked after Harvest Interval.

13. Contact detail of licensed specialist waste disposal contractor.

14. Competed & Up to date Pesticide Stock Sheet.

15. Completed Maintenance and Calibration Schedule with action taken and when completed recorded.

On Farm Check:

Pesticide Store – Refer to HSE Information Sheet No 16. Note the requirements for ALL types of stores (i.e. phone list) and the DIFFERENT requirements for the following types of pesticide stores:

Purposely Designed Shed
Converting existing structures – detached buildings or within larger buildings
Lorry bodies or shipping containers
Cabinet/bin/chest stores.

PPE – Refer to Green Code. Storage in a separate well-ventilated and lockable cupboard (not pesticide store).

Application Equipment – Refer to Green Code. In a well ventilated and secure unit (not pesticide store)

Health and Safety Consideration for Handling Pesticide– Refer to Green Code. Access to water.

NPTC Certificates – Each region has their own local NPTC contact person. Ring the National Office phone 01203 696 553 for the contact detail of the local representative.

Rational use of Fertilisers and Manures

Policy Statements
Codes of Good Agriculture for Soil, Water & Air.
Copy of FACTS certificate from Advisor
Copies of RECENT (i.e. less than 1 year old) Soil and Leaf analysis.
Fertiliser Instruction and Conformation of Application Records
Fertiliser Records
Fertiliser Maintenance and Calibration Records.

On Farm Check:

Fertiliser Storage Shed – Kept in building that is secure and sound with pollution consideration.

Fertiliser Stored Outside – Consideration to weather and the need to cover the sites in the future

Pollution Prevention

Policy Statements
Pollution Audit
Map of farm that has been marked with waterways and ground water sources, such as; bore holes, drains, streams, town supply collection points (Refer to Wildlife and Landscape Plan).
The Good Agricultural Codes for Soil, Water, Air
Fax Environment Agency (Refer to Fax Sheet). Louise Johnson 01732 223224.
Environment Agency Guideline PPG2 – “Above Ground Oil Storage Tanks”.

On Farm Check:

Fuel Tanks – Bund to account for at least 110% of tank volume capacity (Refer to PPG2 Guide).

Fuel Tank Sand Bucket– Container with sand to be used for spills

Waterway locations – i.e. how close are the waterways to where you fill your tanks with water before spraying?

Protection of Human Health

Policy Statements
Letter from Berry World as to Residue Monitoring Programme.
Residue Analysis Results
Environment Agency Water Analysis Result (As in Pollution Prevention Section)
HSE guide “COSHH in Agriculture”
Pesticide COSHH Assessment
Acid COSHH Assessment
Health and Safety Instructions Signed from Staff
Equipment and Vehicle maintenance schedule
Equipment and Vehicle Operating Instructions
Assured Produce Number
HACCP’s for harvest of raw material
Electrical Contractor Invoices for work completed

On Farm Check:

Complete COSHH Assessments, Risk Assessments, Safety instructions. – done

Complete Courseand gain Certificate in Food Hygiene, First Aid. – done

Get employees to sign a form stating that appropriate safety instructions have been provided and understood – done

Check if Insurance reduced due to completion of H&S policy.

First Aid Box – done

Latest Health and Safety Law Posterto be purchased – done

Efficient Use of Energy, Water and Other Natural Resources

Policy Statements
Energy Audit – Energy Efficiency Audit Scheme to order form Ring 01203 696 740.
Power Bill.
Water Licence.
Maintenance Schedule for Vehicles and Equipment.
Invoice from any Vehicle or Equipment Services.
Copy of Tesco Peat Policy.

Recycling and Re-use of Materials

Policy Statements
Invoices for Plastic, Metal, Glass, Paper, Card, Timber, Oil, Straw, Rubble and Waste Storage recycling and collection from contractor.
Company Contact Information for various contractors.
Letter from contractor as to what they do with waste (Register Land fill site).

Wildlife and Landscape Conservation and Enhancement

Policy Statements
Conservation Plan
Local Environmental Risk Assessments for Pesticides – A Practical Guide. PSD & MAFF Publication.

On Farm Check

LERAPs Confirm that buffer zones are at the required distance (5m water ways, 1m dry ditches).