How we began
In October 2021, a group of Upland farmers from Chagford were brought together by Tony Pope, a local agricultural consultant, to explore the concepts of Regenerative Farming (RF). Presentations on the subject were made, followed by questions and a lively discussion about the suitability of the concept for farmers in the area. Some farmers in attendance were enthusiastic about the idea and had a made a start on the road of RF, whilst for others this was a new way of thinking about farming. Since then we have had a number of further meetings with other regenerative farmers, guest speakers including a soil scientist from Rothamsted Research, North Wyke, herbal and legume seed specialists, as well as farm visits during the summer months to practicing regenerative farmers across Devon.
By the end of 2022, it was time to put regenerative concepts into practice and so a project was designed and an application for funding made through FiPL (Farming in Protected Landscapes). By the end of April 2023 the project was funded. Our group comprising of 20 farmer members also set up a farmers’ association, registered on 7th June 2023, as a Community Interest Company (CIC).
By mid-2024, we continue to grow and evolve, aided by further funding from FiPL. With their support, we have been able to collaboratively purchase a direct drill and aerator to sow herbal ley mixes designed specifically for our upland soils, as well as electric fencing to aid the adoption of rotational grazing systems for our livestock with fully funded demonstration days. Further funding from South West Water assisted in the acquisition of lime to address the pH levels of our inherently acidic soils, improving nutrient uptake of our grassland and overall soil health.
We continue to meet monthly to exchange ideas, discuss further collaborative projects and catch up as a local farming community.
Why we exist
Three major concerns formed the basis of establishing the project and this group of Upland farmers:
UK farming is in crisis and has reached a critical crossroads. Subsidies for farmers are being removed and replaced in part with environmental subsidies – the Single Farm Payment will be reduced by 50% in 2024 and removed completely in 2027. Climate change is ever-present and worsening, making the job of farming much more difficult. In addition, farm profitability is falling, soil health is collapsing, crop yields are plateauing and pastures are degenerating.
Upland farmer soils have deteriorated and must be rejuvenated. Soils are the platform on which farmers will be able to improve their productivity (meat output per hectare) and reduce their direct and variable costs (fertilizer, machinery, fuel, concentrates, straw, reduced winter housing). Regenerative farming techniques can achieve all the above, if farmers are supported to ensure they have the time, confidence and perseverance to make the change.
Upland farmers over the centuries have created small fields surrounded by stone walls, some of which are still in use, whilst others have been abandoned. It is a wonderful patchwork quilt of farming activity, easily observed on the slopes below the open moorland. There is great concern for the Uplands in this country, including the farmers who operate their businesses there and help to maintain Dartmoor for the enjoyment of all.
Regenerative Farming (RF) represents a path towards a food system which draws down carbon, restores soil quality, increases biodiversity, improves watersheds, enhances ecosystem services and improves farmer resilience.
The key goals for RF are to improve the SOIL, which has been badly neglected, but is the farmer’s most important and vulnerable asset. Farmers must concentrate on building soils along with soil fertility, soil organic matter (SOM) and health. WATER management should be improved through increased water percolation and storage, water retention and clean and safe water runoff. Regenerative Farming should enhance and conserve BIODIVERSITY and provide the capacity for the self-renewal and resiliency of ECOSYSTEM HEALTH. The soil has potential for sequestering CARBON and should be given every chance to achieve this.