Revolutionising Soil Health and Farm Efficiency with Controlled Traffic Farming

At Soil Association Exchange, we’re always on the lookout for ways to help farmers boost their productivity while keeping their soil in good shape. This week, our farming advisor team got a masterclass from Tim Chamen, a leading expert on Controlled Traffic Farming (CTF). It’s a game-changer—healthier soil, improved yields, and lower costs all come together in a practical and effective system.

What is Controlled Traffic Farming (CTF)?

CTF is a system that minimises soil compaction by confining machinery to permanent lanes, reducing damage to the rest of the field. Without the weight of heavy equipment pressing down, soil remains looser, retains more moisture, and promotes better root growth. With the help of satellite guidance systems like RTK, it’s relatively simple to implement and can bring significant benefits.

Why Should Farmers Consider CTF?

1. Improved Yields and Soil Health

• Less compaction allows roots to spread, absorb nutrients, and thrive.

• Studies show a 15% average increase in yields across different crops.

• Soil biology improves, with earthworm populations increase.

2. Reduced Costs and Fuel Use

• Farmers can cut fuel use for crop establishment by 35%.

• Less machinery wear-and-tear leads to lower maintenance costs.

• More efficient operations save both time and energy.

3. Environmental Benefits

• Water infiltration improves up to 4x, reducing runoff and flood risks.

• Soil retains more nutrients, decreasing pollution in waterways.

• Lower tillage requirements mean reduced carbon emissions.

• More efficient field layouts free up awkward or less productive areas for agri-environmental schemes, making space for nature while maintaining productivity.

How Can You Get Started with CTF?

Transitioning to CTF doesn’t require a huge investment. Start by reviewing your current setup, assessing machinery compatibility, and making small adjustments to field layouts. Many farmers adapt existing equipment, and investing in an RTK guidance system often pays for itself through efficiency gains.

Controlled Traffic Options, Image rights: CTF/Tim Chamen

A Smart Move for the Future

Controlled Traffic Farming isn’t just about short-term gains—it’s a long-term strategy for improving farm productivity and sustainability. With benefits spanning better yields, lower costs, and healthier soil, it’s worth serious consideration for any farmer.

This brochure is a great start to understanding CTF more.

Want to learn more? Check out www.controlledtrafficfarming.com or connect with our farming advisor team at Soil Association Exchange.

Have you tried CTF on your farm? We’d love to hear your experiences!