Organic Farm Scoops National Sustainability Award

Mother and Daughter Farmers Win UK Sustainability Award for Organic Practices

A Jersey mother and daughter who run one of the Island’s only organic farms have been recognised nationally for their commitment to sustainability. Gaynor and Zoe Marshall, of Clairval organic dairy farm in St Saviour, were presented with the VetPartners Environmental Impact Award after being nominated by New Era Vets.

The duo took over the 20-cow farm in 2022 and have since introduced a series of environmentally friendly practices aimed at reducing their impact on the land.

Vet Ralph Maalouf, who put them forward for the award, described them as “inspiring,” praising the progress they have made in just two years.

The award judges highlighted their approach to soil health, wildlife protection, and close collaboration with veterinary experts to ensure animal welfare and sustainability go hand in hand.

At Clairval, the Marshalls feed their herd only home-grown organic silage, fodder beet and straw. They avoid pesticides, fertilise fields with well-rotted manure, and even maintain much of the land by hand.

They also rotate land with organic potato growers, an arrangement that benefits both farms by naturally replenishing the soil.

“Our vets help guide us in making decisions that not only benefit the health of the cows but also support our broader environmental efforts,” said Gaynor Marshall. “It’s about aligning good farming practice with long-term sustainability.”