In this end of year review we celebrate our top ten most read stories of 2015..
We’re also celebrating our first full year online and would like to thank all our talented writers, photographers and illustrators who make Indie Farmer what it is – we’re really proud of all the stories we posted during 2015 and looking forward to building the community of Indie Farmers in 2016 too. We’d also like to thank all our readers and everyone that follows and supports us – we really appreciate all the views, likes, shares and comments!
1. Why we need an agrarian Renaissance
James Friend explores where the agrarian renaissance might come from, highlighting some of the forward thinking organisations and influencers leading the way.
2. 9 fascinating vintage farm films
We picked our favourite 9 farming vintage films from the 1920s to the 1960s on the BFI player, each of them offering a unique window into farming practices and communities around the UK.
3. Farmer finds perfect outlet for pasture for life meat
A tale of collaboration and mutual benefit between a beef farmer and a local artisan butcher
4. Silo: the UKs first zero waste restaurant
Silo in Brighton mills it’s own flour for bread, brews it’s own booze and recycles all it’s own waste.
5. Going Under: The last Fishermen of Sussex
The future of Britain’s inshore fishing fleet hangs in the balance because of EU quota systems that prioritise larger fishing boats. Investigative photographer Sarah Stirk reports.
Hugh Collins spends a day foraging for dulse with the team from Broughgammon Farm and discusses the rise of Northern Irish Seaweed
7. The silent spread of US style mega dairies
The British countryside is being quietly populated with vast dairy units each housing up to 2,000 cows as farmers respond to plummeting milk prices by intensifying production, an investigation has revealed. By Andrew Wasley.
8. An insiders view: best before dates and food waste
Insiders view on the myth of pre packed vegetables date codes, food waste and what really happens. By Mark Palmer.
9. Village Farm: A farm for the future
Richard Widows spends time at Village Farm and discusses what the future of farming could look like..
10. Rare breeds – what’s the point?
Farmer Michael Harding explores the world of rare livestock breeds and believes education in eating habits is the key..
Happy New Year everyone and we’ll see you all in 2016..
Nigel and the Indie Farmer team.