An “inspiring” mother-daughter duo behind one of just two Jersey organic farms have been recognised for their efforts to lower their environmental impact.
Gaynor and Zoe Marshall run Clairval organic dairy farm in St Saviour, which is home to a 20-strong milking herd.
They were runners-up in the VetPartners Environmental Impact Award after they were nominated by New Era Vets.
Vet Ralph Maalouf said they were “inspiring” and had achieved a lot in a short time – having taken over the farm in 2022.
The organisation praised the way they valued caring for the land and supporting wildlife, and how they worked with their vets to reduce the farm’s environmental impact.
The cows are on a “herd plan” developed with their vets and they maintain their fields by hand, using aged manure as fertiliser.
The pair don’t use pesticides and feed only home-grown organic silage, fodder beet and straw to the cows.
They also swap land with organic potato growers, which they say helps both sides by keeping the soil healthy.
Gaynor said: “Our vets help guide us in making decisions that not only benefit the health of the cows but also support our broader environmental efforts on the farm, really aligning with our sustainability goals.”
