Jonathan Hodgson of Great Newsome Farm wins Soil Farmer award – The Northern Farmer
An East Yorkshire farmer has been recognised in a national competition celebrating sustainable farming practices ...
Jonathan Hodgson, who farms 285 hectares of clay soils at Great Newsome Farm in East Yorkshire, came second in the 2025 Soil Farmer of the Year competition for his commitment to soil health and regenerative farming.
The annual competition, a joint venture by Farm Carbon Toolkit and Innovation for Agriculture, commends UK farmers for their innovative soil management practices.
Mr Hodgson’s farm strategy revolves around strip tillage, companion cropping, and cover crops.
He also integrates livestock and has removed seed dressings and insecticides from his farming system.
Competition judge Jade Prince, a soil specialist at Hutchinsons, commended Mr Hodgson’s farming methods, saying: “Jonathan’s approach to enterprise stacking was particularly inspiring.
“From growing barley for his own distillery to producing dual-purpose flax and grazing sheep on cover crops, he is building diversity and resilience into both soil and business.”
John Joseph, who manages 100 hectares of sandy loam soils at Trecorras Farm in Herefordshire, won the top prize.
He was acknowledged for his innovative farming practices over the last decade, including widespread use of companion crops, a seven-year rotation incorporating grassland into the arable system, 100 per cent direct drilling, and reduced inputs.
Ms Prince said: “Every decision on John’s farm has a clear agronomic and economic rationale.
“What stood out was his ability to link soil management to business viability, showing that good soil makes good business sense.”
The third spot went to Andrew Mahon, who farms 800 hectares of Hanslope clay across Bedfordshire.
He was recognised for his shift to a predominantly direct drill system and his focus on increasing biological activity through targeted interventions.
Deborah Crossan, head of soils and natural resources at Innovation for Agriculture, said: “Andrew is pioneering on-farm applications of Johnson-Su compost extract and biological feed at drilling.
“His attention to soil biology and microbial support is not just progressive, it’s proving highly effective in driving organic matter gains and establishment success.”
Following the awards, the three winning farmers will host on-farm events to showcase their soil management strategies.
These farm walks will provide a platform for farmers to share insights on building soil resilience and reducing input reliance.
Ms Crossan said: “Seeing these systems on the ground is invaluable.
“They demonstrate how different soil types, farming systems, and business models can all benefit from a soil-first approach.”
Information about the farm walks will be shared on the Farm Carbon Toolkit and Innovation for Agriculture websites, newsletters, and social media channels.
Email Us