Nestled in the heart of the Yorkshire countryside, the Biohub farm is a beacon for responsible agriculture. This pioneering research and development demonstrator farm is undergoing a further transformation with the creation of seven new wetlands funded by Farming in Protected Landscapes through Nidderdale National Landscape. 

These wetlands are a crucial part of a wider scheme that will see 57 water features integrated into the Biohub landscape, creating a more resilient and productive ecosystem.

The Biohub is a leading-edge collaborative initiative between a consortium of partners including Yorkshire Water; sports and entertainment hospitality experience specialists, Levy; and QuornPro. The farm is dedicated to showcasing how innovative farming techniques can be used to produce food sustainably and responsibly.

The Biohub is more than just a research farm; it is a living laboratory dedicated to exploring the connection between food production, the environment, and human wellbeing.

"We're incredibly proud to be part of the RegenFarmCo project and to support the creation of these new wetlands” says Kevin Watson, Sustainability Director, Levy, one of the Biohub farm's long-term commercial strategic partners. “The new wetlands demonstrate the value of investing in nature-based solutions to create a more sustainable food system. This initiative aligns perfectly with our commitment to sustainability and our goal of making a positive impact on the environment.”

The Importance of Water Management

Water is a vital resource, especially for agriculture, and the new wetlands at the Biohub will play a crucial role in ensuring that the farm has access to water all year round.  "The Biohub farm is all about demonstrating how we can produce food in a sustainable way, whilst also protecting and enhancing water quality" says Lisa Harrowsmith, Lead Rural & Environmental Surveyor for Yorkshire Water. "Water is a critical resource, and this project will help us to manage it more efficiently, reducing runoff and ensuring that our production systems have access to water all year round."

"This project is about creating clean freshwater habitat within strategic areas to provide optimum opportunity for landscape recovery," explains Christy Irish, from Nidderdale National Landscape. "It's about creating a holistic ecosystem that works in harmony with nature through terrestrial habitats. The hydrology design is located at the most elevated area of the farm, connecting downslope ecosystems across the Biohub, making it more resilient and productive."

The new wetlands are strategically designed to capture and spread water across the landscape, reducing runoff and creating a more efficient water management system. This is vital for the farm's research into sustainable food production, helping them demonstrate how to produce more food with less water.

Benefits for Biodiversity

The new wetlands will not only improve water management but also provide a valuable habitat for a range of wildlife.  The creation of these wetlands will enhance biodiversity and create a more vibrant and resilient landscape.  The project will also help to improve water quality and reduce pollution.

“The site scored well in our strategic modelling and is an ideal site on which to establish new, clean water ponds,” explains Kate Wright, project ecologist on Nidderdale’s Wetland Creation project, working in partnership with Freshwater Habitats Trust. “We are pleased to support the Biohub in creating some of these new features. These will build out from existing ponds at Timble Ings, adding resilience into the freshwater network and providing connectivity across the wider landscape.”

A Model for the Future

The Biohub farm is a shining example of how sustainable food production can be achieved. The new wetlands are just one of many innovative projects underway at the farm, showcasing how collaboration and innovation can be used to create a more sustainable future for food production. The project will serve as a model for other farms and businesses looking to adopt more sustainable practices. 

"The Biohub farm is a great example of what can be achieved when we work together," says Phil Thornborrow, Director - Global Foodservice at QuornPro, another key Biohub long-term commercial strategic partner. "We are proud to be part of this initiative and to be contributing to a more sustainable future for food production."

Visiting the Biohub

The Biohub farm is open to visitors who want to learn more about sustainable food production.  The farm offers a range of tours and workshops for individuals and groups, providing an opportunity to witness the farm's innovative practices firsthand.

Call to Action

Visit the Biohub website www.regenfarmco.com  to learn more about their research, initiatives, and events.  Follow their social media channels for updates on their progress and to learn how you can contribute to a more sustainable future.

For more information on the farm workshops and to request a visit, please contact info@regenfarmco.com 
Biohub Farm: A shining example of the power of collaboration and innovation in tackling the challenges of climate change and food security.