Field and Feral Project Update: Off-Grid Irrigation System Supports Sustainable Land Management
- SMS Tech Editor
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
Creating a lake was only the beginning.
While water storage is a vital part of any sustainable landscape, its true value comes from being able to deliver that water where it is needed most.
At the Field and Feral project in North Yorkshire, another exciting milestone has been reached with the development of a fully off-grid pump house that will power an intelligent irrigation system using renewable energy.
At SMS Technology, we are proud to play our part in a project that demonstrates how innovative engineering and sustainable technology can work together to create long-term environmental benefits.
Collaboration Creating Lasting Environmental Impact
The Field and Feral project continues to show what is possible when organisations combine their expertise to achieve a shared goal.
Two months ago, project partner Dechra supported the excavation of a natural clay-lined lake, creating approximately 240 to 250 cubic metres of water storage for the site.
This month, Story Contracting Limited completed the underground irrigation network, connecting multiple planting and growing zones across the landscape.
Our role is to connect these two vital systems by delivering an intelligent, renewable-powered pumping solution.
Renewable Energy Powers Smart Irrigation
The new off-grid pump house has been designed to operate entirely using renewable energy,
removing the need for a grid connection while delivering reliable irrigation throughout the site.
Water will automatically be pumped from the lake during the coolest part of the day, reducing evaporation and ensuring trees, food forests and habitats receive the water they need during dry periods.
This smart irrigation approach improves water efficiency while helping maintain healthy ecosystems throughout the growing season.
Sustainable Engineering Built for the Future
Every aspect of the pump house has been carefully designed with sustainability in mind.
Powered entirely by renewable energy.
No grid connection required.
Automatic irrigation across multiple growing zones.
Built using reclaimed materials from local construction projects.
Designed to reduce water waste and operating costs.
The result is a resilient system that supports both environmental conservation and long-term sustainability.
Supporting Biodiversity and Local Communities
The benefits extend far beyond irrigation.
The newly created lake is already providing habitat for dragonflies, aquatic insects and other wildlife. The irrigation system will help establish thriving food forests, productive planting areas and diverse habitats that support local biodiversity.
Together, these connected systems improve climate resilience while helping produce fresh food for local food banks and community organisations.
Projects like Field and Feral demonstrate how sustainable infrastructure can deliver positive environmental, ecological and community outcomes.
SMS Technology Supporting Sustainable Innovation
At SMS Technology, we believe technology should solve real-world challenges.
Whether delivering digital transformation solutions for businesses or supporting sustainability projects like Field and Feral, our focus remains on creating intelligent systems that improve efficiency, reduce environmental impact and deliver lasting value.
The Field and Feral project is another example of how renewable energy, automation and collaborative engineering can work together to create a more sustainable future.
Looking Ahead
The project continues to evolve, and we are excited to share photographs of the completed off-grid pump house next month.
We'll also introduce the site's newest residents, the bees, which will play an important role in supporting pollination, biodiversity and the continued growth of this remarkable landscape.
Stay tuned as we continue to share updates from the Field and Feral project and showcase how sustainable engineering is helping shape a greener future.