So the madness of summer is upon us: the long working hours and the constant checking of the weather forecast.
After endless months of winter rain, we now find ourselves seriously short of water. The livestock sector is struggling with limited feed stock, and any passing shower or thunderstorm is heartily welcomed.
Harvest is well under way, with many having cut a good area before the end of July – unusually early. Yields are varied, depending on soil type and how much rain fell in May and June.
All of this puts added pressure on farmers and their teams. Remember: we at the Farming Community Network are always here if needed.
Getting together
In June and early July, we hosted two farm walks, welcoming around 100 people over the two evenings. The first was held at my own farm in Winterborne Kingston, where Bournemouth University is conducting an archaeological dig exploring Roman and Iron Age rural life.
As well as viewing the dig, we discussed current farming practices – balancing environmental schemes with the need to maximise production.
Two weeks later, we had a fascinating visit to Hemsworth Farm, enjoying a guided tour of their organic dairy and regenerative farming system.
Alongside these, our Walk & Talk evenings have continued around the county – visiting the Piddle Valley, the Fleet area, Sherborne, Winyard’s Gap and Tollard Royal.
Do come and see us at the agricultural shows this summer: We’ll be at Gillingham & Shaftesbury on 13th and 14th August, Melplash on 21st, and the Dorset County Show on 6th and 7th September.
And we’re already preparing for our Harvest Festival service at Sherborne Abbey. Book it in your diary: 28th September at 6.30pm.
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