Farming in November 2010
Our run of good luck with TB has come to an end. A recent test revealed 6 reactors, all of whom have had to be destroyed. To add insult to injury one of the chosen few was Mango, one of Rachel’s pedigree Simmentals. As farmers we need to stay fairly hard hearted in these matters, but seeing Mango trot into the lorry to her fate was pretty choking. The control of TB is currently under review and hopefully some progress will be made. The current cattle-only control measures leave the reservoir of TB in wildlife unchecked. Therefore, re-infection of our cattle is pretty inevitable, and Mango’s demise in vain.
On a happier note I returned from the Harewood End Agricultural Society laden with silverware. I managed to retain my "Best Maize in the World" cup and won the "Best Livestock" and "Best Farm under 1000 acres". I am delighted and flattered by these accolades and I am ignoring comments from nearest and dearest casting doubt on the number of entries!
To ensure efficient milk production we aim for each cow to have one calf every 365 days. We stop milking a cow 2 months before her next calf is due; this is called "drying off". Our cows calve during the autumn and therefore get to enjoy their dry period out at grass. This summer Roger, the ram, joined the dry cows and settled down very nicely with what he saw as his ladies. He became their self-appointed guardian protecting them from the perils of Kettle Bottom. He wasn’t exactly rushed off his feet as you can imagine. The only significant challenge he faced was when Walter, our most athletic bull, jumped the fence to see if, in fact, the grass was greener on the other side. Roger had other ideas and after much ramming Walter retreated. Luckily I was a safe distance away, Whitesands Bay in Pembroke, at the time of this incident and the MD had it sorted out by my return.
I have heard it said that "you never see a farmer on a bike", however, that was not true on 11th September as Harry, Lucy, Rachel and I embarked on the Ride and Stride in aid of the Historic Churches Trust. We cycled 20 miles and visited 13 churches. Very many thanks to all our sponsors who helped us raise £220. Harry would like a special mention to go to Lady Sally North who despite recent surgery still managed to ensure his favourite biscuits were ready and waiting at Hope Mansell Church.
Robert Davies
Partner, Hopes Ash Farms
Farming Fact: According to Defra over 60% of the UK’s apple orchards have been destroyed in the last 30 years and 76% of apples consumed in the UK are from overseas.