Michelmersh Manor Farm Embraces Technology for Dairy Diversification

Michelmersh Manor Farm, located at the southern end of the Test Valley, is a testament to how traditional family farms can adapt and thrive by embracing technology. Heading the transformation is Fran Drake, the 61-year-old matriarch of the farm, who believes that technology is vital for keeping the younger generation engaged in farming.

"If you keep up with technology, it's amazing - without it, my sons [probably] wouldn't be doing it," Fran noted, emphasizing the crucial role of technological advancements in the farm's operations.

Since its origins in 1983, the farm has shifted from operating a 290 cow herd to diversifying into holiday accommodations and integrating robotic milking machines. Supported by the EU's Leader Grant, the farm invested in second-hand DeLaval milking machines, which allow for continuous 24/7 milking and remote monitoring through an app.

Scott Drake, 23, heads the milk production and is a direct descendant of centuries-old farming traditions. He highlighted the financial challenges milk producers face due to fixed profit margins maintained by processors and supermarkets, saying, "We're price takers and you'll find the processors, the supermarkets, have a guaranteed profit - if there's any hiccups in the supply chain, the milk producer takes the hit."

The farm's innovation includes milk vending machines, strategically placed across Test Valley and beyond, with plans to double their number by 2026. "Without all the diversification, the holiday lets, vending machines, and contracting, the business would look very scary if we were just producing for a milk processor," Scott added.

The farm's continued efforts in diversification and technology demonstrate a forward-thinking approach in the agricultural sector, ensuring sustainability and growth for future generations.