New partnership to support regenerative farming in UK dairy industry

The newly announced four-year partnership seeks to revolutionize dairy farming practices through the adoption of regenerative farming techniques. Key components of this initiative include the use of rotational grazing, which involves moving dairy herds across different pastures to prevent overgrazing. In addition, the project will focus on increasing sward grassland diversity and enhancing rooting depth, practices that collectively contribute to improved soil structure, greater water infiltration, and enhanced soil organic matter. This, in turn, boosts the soil's water holding capacity and supports biodiversity.

Farmers involved in the project will be engaged through various workshops, farm visits, and on-site advisory sessions. These activities aim to provide a comprehensive approach to managing soil compaction and minimizing water run-off. Ultimately, the initiative is expected to lead to significant improvements in water quality within the region, particularly in the Eastern and Western Cleddau river systems as well as the tributaries of the Taf River. Farmers will be encouraged to select targeted interventions that cater to the specific needs of their land, customizing approaches on a field-by-field and farm-by-farm basis.

Expressing his excitement about the program, Daniel James of Gellyolau Farm, a member of First Milk, stated: "We are really looking forward to taking part in this project – healthy soils are the cornerstone of good farming and we’re keen to see what improvements can be made here at Gellyolau that will help us farm more regeneratively and at the same time help to protect the river for future generations."