This workshop led by farmer and ecologist Rob Havard, will focus on the marriage of productivity and ecological gain. As a hands-on farmer Rob speaks from experience, as he integrates planned grazing on the 1000+ acres of diverse pasture he grazes with his herds. Using grazing techniques that are based on recreating natural processes allows Rob to grow fitter cattle for less money while leaving the land in a better state than when he found it.

The following topics will be covered in Rob's talk: 

• Grazing with nature for maximum zero input, output and profit

• Managing grass and the potential of the system

• Recording, planning and monitoring made simple

• Introduction to grass-fed Genetics

• Ecosystem processes

The talk will be followed by a tour of the farm to see the theory in practice on Rob and Lizzie’s farm.

A rough outline of the day is below:

• 10:30-11am: Arrival

• 11am: Talk by Rob Havard

• 12.30pm: Lunch (provided by NFFN)

• 1pm-3pm: Farm walk

• 3pm: Departure

Speakers

Rob and Lizzie Havard run a 100% grass-fed suckler herd of Pedigree Aberdeen Angus across 1,200 acres of diverse pasture in Shropshire and Worcestershire selling breeding bulls and females to those with, or establishing, low-input systems.

Rob is a sixth-generation farmer and professional ecologist. He has been using Holistic Management to inform his farming practice since 2012. Lizzie and Rob met through cattle shopping in early 2022 and they now farm together in partnership.

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