A unique 'bean buyback scheme', that benefits growers and helps secure a valuable, sustainable, and secure feed supply for livestock, has been launched by leading supply business, Mole Valley Farmers.

The 9000-farmer-shareholder business' ‘bean buyback scheme' provides growers with a secure market and guaranteed price and premium over wheat, which can be fixed at any time to the Liffee price of wheat. There are also additional premiums when protein levels exceed a specific threshold.

However, bad news for Scotland as farmers signing up for the scheme should farm within 50 miles of one of Mole Valley Farmers' three feed mills in South-west England.

The beans are grown on contract and re-purchased following harvest to be used across the entire Mole Valley Farmers compound and blend ruminant feed range. In addition, the 'scheme aims to secure feed supplies for livestock whilst improving the sustainability of the supply chain and reducing reliance on soya.

MVF worked closely with leading seeds specialists, Cope Seeds, to ensure the varieties provide excellent agronomic value for growers whilst achieving the best nutritional values.

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Winter varieties include Tundra and Vespa, which have been selected for their high protein content. The spring variety Victus has been chosen for its low vicine content to maximise feed efficiency in livestock.

Eight growers covering 325 ha are currently signed up to the scheme, including Dyson Farming and cheese makers the Alvis family, at Lye Cross Farm, Bristol. Mole Valley Farmers is wishing to expand the grower network further.

Nick Green, Lye Cross Farm Operations Director, said the buyback scheme offered an opportunity that is benefitting both the grower and MVF – he's currently growing 113ha of Vespa winter beans. They have grown beans in the past, mainly as a cash crop as well as feeding it to some of their cattle.

Mr Green said: “The bean buyback scheme provides an opportunity for both the grower and Mole Valley Farmers to produce something the customer wants at a price linked to the wheat Liffee price.

"This ensures transparency and clarity between grower and buyer. There is a premium paid for protein and as the buyback agreement is structured, both organisations benefit. The contract also covers 100% of the harvested produce of the area sown, which provides security for the grower,” he added.