Sustainability at Hockey’s Farm: How we’re Protecting the New Forest for Future Generations
In the heart of the New Forest, Hockey’s Farm has always stood for community, countryside living and the simple pleasure of good, honest food. But behind the scenes, another commitment has quietly grown year after year - a genuine dedication to sustainability. Not as a trend. Not as a tick-box exercise. But as a long-term responsibility to the land, the wildlife and the people who rely on this special place.
Sustainability is woven into everything we do at the farm - from the way we power our buildings to the water that nourishes our animals, the habitats we nurture and the waste we prevent. Every project has been intentional, carefully planned and rooted in local environmental needs. As the New Forest experiences more unpredictable weather, heavier rainfall, rising energy costs and increasing pressure on natural ecosystems, we believe these efforts matter more than ever.
This is a detailed look at the steps we’ve taken so far - the investments, the decisions and the day-to-day practices that shape Hockey’s Farm into a business that is kinder to the planet and linked closely with the rhythms of the New Forest.
Harnessing Solar Power: A Major Step Towards Renewable Energy
One of the most significant sustainability milestones at Hockey’s Farm has been the installation of 200 solar panels, capable of generating 52kWh of electricity. This investment has reduced our electricity usage from the grid by 50%, preventing 33,000 kg of carbon dioxide emissions and exporting an impressive 21,000 kWh back into the national grid.
This renewable energy doesn’t just power day-to-day operations in the Farm Shop, the cafe and other buildings on site - it helps stabilise the business and safeguard it from future energy volatility. For us, this isn’t only an environmental choice but a long-term investment in resilience.
Reducing Energy Consumption: Small Changes, Big Impact
Energy efficiency isn’t just about generating clean electricity; it’s also about reducing the amount we use in the first place. Across the farm, several practical measures are in place:
Enhanced Insulation
Additional insulation in both the Farm Shop and the Farmhouse helps reduce energy consumption significantly. Well-insulated spaces require less heating in winter and less cooling in summer, lowering demand on both the grid and our solar system.
LED Lighting Policy
All old, inefficient lighting has been replaced with LEDs, and we have adopted an LED-only policy across the entire site. LED lighting uses a fraction of the energy of traditional bulbs, lasts longer and reduces maintenance waste - a small change with meaningful long-term results.
EV Charging Point
To support both staff and customers who have made the switch to electric vehicles, we have installed an EV car charger on site. It’s another step in encouraging lower-carbon travel and supporting sustainable choices in the local community.
Water Management: Working With Nature, Not Against It
The New Forest is a beautiful place, but its landscapes are deeply shaped by water - heavy rainfall, rising groundwater and natural watercourses can create challenges for landowners. At Hockey’s Farm, we’ve invested heavily in water management systems that not only protect the farm but enhance the wellbeing of the wildlife that lives here.
Rainwater Harvesting System
A major project has been the installation of 64,000 litres of above-ground storage tanks that harvest rainwater from the barn roof.
This harvested water is used as drinking water for the farm animals, reducing our reliance on the mains system. Not only does this conserve water, but it also helps alleviate pressure on the land during periods of heavy rainfall.
Underground Water Storage
An additional underground storage tank captures excess water from the fields, further reducing flooding and helping the land stay healthy and usable throughout the year.
Drainage Improvements and Wildlife Habitats
We have installed three perforated underground drainage pipes in the field, all leading to a newly created pond. This has a dual benefit:
It alleviates field flooding, improving soil health and usability.
It creates a natural habitat for wildlife, attracting birds, insects, amphibians and other species that thrive in wetland environments.
Maintaining Natural Watercourses
We also maintain existing natural watercourses around the farm, helping the wider landscape cope more effectively with periods of heavy rainfall.
Tree Planting and Biodiversity: Strengthening the Natural Landscape
Sustainability isn’t just about infrastructure - it’s also about nurturing the land. At Hockey’s Farm we have planted 3,000 whips and trees, all of which serve an important environmental purpose:
They soak up excess water from the fields.
They help alleviate flooding.
They absorb CO₂ and emit oxygen, improving air quality.
They provide crucial habitats and corridors for wildlife.
Trees are one of the simplest but most powerful tools available for long-term sustainability. By increasing tree coverage, we’re actively investing in the health and resilience of the New Forest for decades to come.
Wildflower Areas: Supporting Pollinators and Local Wildlife
Across the farm we’ve established multiple natural wildflower areas, carefully managed to support bees, insects and wildlife. Wildflowers are essential for biodiversity - providing nectar, food and shelter - and they help play a role in natural pest control and improving soil health.
These areas add beauty to the farm, but they also create vital pockets of biodiversity, contributing to the overall ecological health of the region.
Ancient Woodland Left Wild
In addition to planting new trees, we have consciously chosen to leave four acres of ancient woodland completely wild, allowing flora, fauna and wildlife to thrive without human interference.
Ancient woodland is irreplaceable; once damaged, its ecosystems can take centuries to recover. Leaving this area wild is a commitment to protecting a natural asset that benefits the entire local environment.
Waste Management: Turning Food Waste Into Energy
Sustainability doesn’t stop at energy and water - it shapes our approach to waste too.
All food waste produced in our Farmyard Cafe and butchery is collected and sent to be anaerobically digested. This process breaks down organic matter without oxygen, creating renewable electricity.
By diverting food waste away from landfill, we help reduce methane emissions and instead contribute to the generation of clean energy - another cycle of sustainability that starts right here at the farm.
Modern Sewage Treatment for a Cleaner Environment
We have installed two large treatment plants, replacing four older septic tanks. This upgrade:
Prevents soil contamination
Reduces carbon emissions previously associated with sewage disposal
Improves the long-term environmental footprint of the entire site
This step is one of the most impactful behind-the-scenes improvements, ensuring that the land and water around the farm remain healthy and protected.
Encouraging Greener Travel
To support customers and staff who choose to travel sustainably, we’ve installed cycle racks on site. The New Forest is known for its cycling routes, and we’re pleased to welcome those who prefer leaving the car at home and arriving on two wheels.
Sustainability as a Long-Term Commitment
None of these sustainability initiatives happened overnight. They are the result of years of planning, investment and a belief that running a farm, a farm shop - comes with responsibilities far beyond the day-to-day.
Every solar panel, drainpipe, water tank and wildflower area is part of a bigger picture: protecting the New Forest and ensuring Hockey’s Farm remains a place that people and wildlife can enjoy for generations to come.
Our sustainability journey is ongoing. We continue to review our practices, explore new ideas and look for ways to reduce our environmental impact even further.
Why Sustainability Matters to Us
The New Forest is a place unlike any other. Its landscapes, its wildlife, its traditions and its community are what make Hockey’s Farm special. We couldn’t do what we do without the land beneath our feet and the animals and wildlife that live alongside us.
Protecting it isn’t optional - it’s essential.
Our sustainability efforts are not just about compliance or appearances. They are about:
Respect for the land
Care for animals
Responsibility to the community
Protecting our future
Running a business the right way
We are proud of the progress we’ve made, and even prouder that every visit to Hockey’s supports a business that puts sustainability at the heart of everything it does.
