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Drought-Proof Farm Thrives on Rainwater & Solar Power
14 Sep
Summary
- A market garden near St Columb, Cornwall, remains unaffected by drought.
- An advanced irrigation system utilizes spring, pond, and collected rainwater.
- The farm is entirely powered by solar energy, reducing utility costs.
Despite a summer defined by record-breaking temperatures, heatwaves, and widespread drought, one market garden in Cornwall has remained largely unaffected. Conor Kendrew, operating a 0.5-acre plot near St Columb, invested heavily in a sophisticated irrigation system that utilizes a spring, pond, and harvested rainwater.
This system, capable of delivering water pressure six times that of a typical home, allows for extensive crop watering. Kendrew emphasizes that preparing the ground for drought resilience was paramount, achieved through the liberal use of compost and minimal cultivation, which continuously builds soil organic matter and carbon. The entire farm is also powered by solar energy, providing both free water and free energy.
Kendrew and his wife Rose proactively prepared for the escalating realities of climate change by establishing an off-grid, resilient system. While the extreme heat still stresses crops, their preparation means they are currently managing their water needs effectively. This approach reflects an engineering mindset, over-designing systems to withstand extreme conditions.
