What is LEAF's Integrated Farm Management (IFM)?

"IFM is a whole farm approach that combines the best of traditional methods with beneficial modern technologies, to achieve high productivity with a low environmental impact."

IFM provides a framework for farmers to adopt sustainable business solutions.  It delivers efficient and profitable production which is economically viable, socially acceptable and environmentally responsible.  IFM integrates beneficial natural processes into best modern farming practices.  By using the most appropriate technology, science and innovations together with tried and tested approaches, skills, experience and knowledge, IFM delivers a productive agriculture alongside minimal environmental risks whilst conserving, enhancing and recreating that which is of environmental importance.

IFM is geared towards sustaining and optimising the use of all resources on farm, including soil, water, air, staff, machinery, capital and wildlife habitats, landscape and archaeological features.  Its successful uptake requires a detailed understanding of the business and an innovative and challenging approach.

The LEAF IFM approach has been developed as an efficient, workable system to address economic, environmental, social and welfare issues.

It brings together the management practices and decisions across the whole farm in a balanced and considered way.  This includes:

• Organisation and Planning
• Soil Management & Fertility
• Crop Health & Protection
• Pollution control & By-product management
• Animal Husbandry
• Energy Efficiency & Water Management
• Landscape & Nature Conservation
• Community Engagement