Conservation Grazing
How we do it
Conservation grazing is the use of livestock to improve the floristic nature of land.
The way this happens is livestock graze on the dominant vegetation, break up the thick grass, create bare soil and allow other vegetation to invade. This creates vegetation of differing heights creating a wide range of habitats and increasing biodiversity.
Removal of livestock is important as this will allow the seed to drop and secure the plants for the next season although livestock can be used over a number of years if the area is particularly poor in vegetation and scrub has been allowed to grow.
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Traditionally Highland cattle or any of the other rare breed beef cattle are suitable grazing animals. Dairy cattle wouldn’t be used for this purpose as their digestive system cant cope with the rough vegetation.
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Highland cattle are suitably hardy animals and can usually cope with bad weather, poor vegetation and calf without assistance.
highland cattle
They possess a thick, long coat that provides insulation against frigid temperatures
Well-suited for cold and steep areas, known for their adaptability to harsh climates.
Their sturdy build and legs allow them to navigate terrain with ease.
Feed on coarse vegetation that other cattle might avoid.
Sturdy breed yet calmer demeanor and social nature
Our Highland Cattle history
Our first two pedigree cows were purchased in 2020 with the intent to use them in conservation grazing. Over that time, we have built the numbers up and can now hire them out in numbers sufficient to tackle any vegetation night mare. Our cattle are regularly inspected as per industry standard and raised with high welfare standards. That said Highland cattle are a sturdy breed and can withstand tough conditions. We have some “show” cattle potential that we will explore later as our stock is from a good bloodline, our resident bull has had a successful career in the ring, however, retired now from shows, still producing good calves.