Cricket bat willows

The Littlefield cricket bat willow project was started 21 years ago. After locating ground that was unsuitable for farming we planted 50 saplings to get the ball rolling. It is essential the willow's soil is wet all year round as they consume a huge amount of water. There are several brooks and streams on the farm which is ideal for the fast growth of willows.

Part of the farm is located in a valley and flooding has always been a major problem. We now have over 350 cricket bat willows which help soak up the excess water which would otherwise led to stagnant pools of water which would hinder the farm's production.

The cost of planting the willows is minimal and there is very little upkeep. The compound rate of return is around 24%. They are left to grow for 19 years before they are harvested to make first class cricket bats and we start the cycle again.