TWO farms near Andover will be taking part in a project to improve nitrogen usage efficiency.

Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC) revealed that Michelmersh Manor Farm and Goddards Farm have been chosen for the pioneering Net Zero pilot demonstrator Initiative.

TVBC is working closely with the IncuHive Group and Accelar on this initiative and both farms have been awarded a total of almost £25,000 to pursue these tests, using money from the government's UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

Michelmersh Manor Farm, a family-run farm specialising in arable, dairy and sheep production, plans to wield the funds to bring in new technology aimed at enhancing nutrient management.

READ MORE: Waitrose unveils plans to accelerate nature-friendly farming

The farms will be working with IncuHive and Accelar (Image: IncuHive Group) This method involves fertilising the leaves of the crops directly, which promises to be more efficient and mitigate nitrate leaching as well.

Meanwhile, Goddards Farm is planning a venture with Apsley Farm.

The aim of the project is to boost nutrient usage and lessen the farm's carbon footprint in the process.

The farm's contribution to sustainable development is hoped to be a blueprint for other farms to follow.

The ultimate goal of the Net Zero pilot demonstrator project is to encourage the adoption of forward-thinking agricultural habits that can reduce energy consumption, manage nutrient use more effectively and ultimately minimise farms' carbon footprints.

George Scott-Welsh, CEO of IncuHive Group Ltd, said: "We are incredibly excited to champion Michelmersh Manor Farm and Goddards Farm in our pioneering Net Zero Pilot Demonstrator Initiative.

"These exceptional farms are not just participants but trailblazers in sustainable agriculture."

SEE MORE: Leading manufacturer of salad near Andover praised by MP for its environmental work

Cllr Phil North, leader of Test Valley Borough Council, also expressed enthusiasm about the project.

He said: "We are absolutely delighted that these two farms are taking part in the Net Zero Pilot Demonstrator Initiative.

"It’s an incredibly exciting project that could play a vital role in helping the borough become Net Zero."

The progress of both projects will be tracked closely by both the TVBC and IncuHive and the outcomes will be assessed and disclosed post the harvest season.

The community is encouraged to keep an eye on the project's evolution on social media as updates are regularly posted on these platforms.