We have been surprised by demand for our Hill Farming Training courses in Cumbria and have had to limit applications and create a waiting list. Thirty two conservationists have attended Level 1 training days on four hill farms in Cumbria. The farmer, accompanied by another local farmer give the participants an in-depth insight into how the farm works and set them practical tasks in sheep handling and stone walling. These practical days are supported by handouts and professionally prepared course notes.
All participants are requested to complete an evaluation form. The feedback has been very positive with participants really enjoying the practical nature of handling sheep, trimming feet, building walls and condition scoring stock. Some quotes;
“The whole issue of sheep breeding was a real eye opener and the price farmers are willing to pay for tups and even ewes to ensure they produce the best sheep.”
“It also highlighted the importance of being more open about our aims and the evidence or assumptions behind them; giving more consideration to negative side effects of agri-environment schemes.”
While we are still in the early days of the project the courses have exceeded our expectations. They are bringing farmers together with conservationists they usually only meet in an adversarial setting over a new scheme or project. It has allowed farmers to tell their story and for conservationists to see the management of the hills from a completely new perspective and realize how complicated it is and how committed farmers are to hill farming and the environment.
Level two and level three courses are planned for the spring and summer on common land and farm economics in Cumbria. Courses in Dartmoor start in the New Year. For more infomation about the project click here http://www.foundationforcommonland.org.uk/hill-farming-training-scheme-for-conservation-professionals
The project is funded by the Prince's Countryside Fund, Cumbria Fells & Dales RDPE and the Duchy of Cornwall.
