As Defra published it’s consultation paper today, outlining plans for new funding for environmental schemes, rewarding farmers who encourage biodiversity and improve soil health, Michael Gove, Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, visited Cotswold Seeds’ customer Rob Richmond’s Manor Farm near Cirencester along with MD Ian Wilkinson to observe soil improvements from herbal leys grown as part of a rotation. During the visit organised by Jenny Phelps and hosted by FWAGSW, Mr Gove was shown a resilient farming system with zero inputs using herbal leys. These offer drought resistance and mineral capture, as well as accumulating carbon in the form of organic matter.  Mr Gove described Rob Richmond’s farm as one of the ‘most profitable in Gloucestershire’ and discussed how, in order to access public money for public good, farmers like Rob will be rewarded for good soil, healthy food and clean water.