Innovative programme launched for farmers in South Downs

Farmers, graziers and land managers in the South Downs are being invited to join a new initiative aimed at enhancing grazing profitability and resilience.

The programme, Pasture and Profit in Protected Landscapes: South Downs, was created by Pasture for Life and is open to farmers and land managers from in and around the national park, including East Sussex, West Sussex and Hampshire.

Funded by Defra’s Farming in Protected Landscapes programme for England and supported by the South Downs National Park Authority, it offers knowledge exchange events, free mentoring, and tailored training.

See also: How beneficial insects can help nature and food production

Events scheduled for this autumn focus on adaptive grazing practices, financial planning, livestock health, transitioning to circular systems, and a winter webinar series for beef, sheep and dairy producers running until March 2025.

© Pasture for Life

Sharing best practice

Ali Laws, the project manager, said the sessions were led by experienced farmers and specialists, providing valuable insights and opportunities for participants to share ideas.

The programme encourages farmers to maximize pasture use, improve animal health, reduce input costs, enhance soil health and boost biodiversity while building resilience against rising costs and extreme weather.

Participants have reported benefits including improved livestock and soil health, reduced costs, and enhanced business resilience.

Interested farmers can contact Ali Laws at ali@pastureforlife.org or call 07805 167 624. More information about upcoming events can be found at Eventbrite and South Downs Farming.