Learn to Graze and Manage a Suckler Herd, Axminster, Devon

A unique opportunity for someone who wants to learn how to manage a traditional breed suckler herd with conservation grazing on the Devon Dorset border. The landowners would like to step back in the next year or so and are keen to pass on their knowledge and experience to the right person. Their focus has been conservation grazing and traditional land management and they have carefully developed  the genetics of their suckler herd of Ruby Red Devons over the last 20 years. They are open to ideas for the herd such as for a calf at foot dairy as well other ways to make use of the land such as a conservation management business or small vegetable enterprise on 0.2 acres. This opportunity would suit someone with a keen interest in conservation who would like to build their own herd through share cropping.

The land itself has been carefully managed for biodiversity but it is not certified organic. It encompasses 2 county wildlife sites including part of a medieval deer park, it is within the East Devon National Landscape area and half of it is in a higher level environmental stewardship agreement with plans to enter the rest of the land in the future. The initial agreement is open to discussion but could be for 5 years with a break clause developed between the parties, rent is negotiable but the main aim will be to get a new enterprise off the ground. There is space for a caravan and the possibility of converting a small barn into accommodation and access to a large barn for hay storage and overwintering the cattle along with a shed for storing vegetables and having meetings and some smaller sheds too. Various machinery and tools are available including an ancient tractor which may be replaced in the future.

This is a generous offer for someone to get started in the area of farming and conservation, with not only mentoring and equipment but a herd to build with as well.

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