Low Luckens Organic Resource Centre
The Farm
Where are we, who are we and what do we Produce?
Situated on the River Lyne in north-east Cumbria, Low Luckens and Whiteholme Farms are surrounded by beautiful countryside, with views of the Bewcastle Fells, north Pennines and the Lake District. The two farms are run as a single unit by Jon & Lynne Perkin and produce organic beef and lamb with Soil Association registration.
Improving the Quality of Life
Livestock are kept to high animal welfare standards and enjoy stress-free conditions. Cattle, sheep and pigs are naturally healthy and have a good quality of life. The result is fine tasting organic meat.
Conserving Natural Resources
As organic farms, Whiteholme and Low Luckens do not use any artificial fertilisers or synthetic pesticides. Instead they rely on farmyard manure, natural fertilisers (for example the use of clover to "fix" nitrogen in the soil) and good husbandry to maintain fertility of the land.
Encouraging Biodiversity
The farm has an extensive Higher Level Stewardship agreement for the restoration of hedgerows, species rich hay meadows and pastures. Strips of ancient woodland border the river and its tributaries, some of which are designated Sites of Special Scientific Interest for their mosses, lichens and ferns. New plantations of native trees, oak, hazel, ash and bird cherry have also been planted.
Low Luckens Organic Market Garden
Eva's Organics is a small organic market garden supplying a wide range of fresh vegetables, salad crops and culinary and medicinal herbs to local people. This a separate business and is run by Mike & Debbie Simpson.
Haven for Wildlife
By using sustainable farming methods the farm provides the habitat for a wide range of birds, animals and wildflowers. Roe deer, hares and red squirrels are seen regularly and at dusk, badgers and otters may be seen. Each spring the haunting cries of the curlew can be heard across the fell and the woods hold a host of bluebells and ramsons.