Farm opens up to the idea of an organic future

A PROSPEROUS future for their farming business is the top priority for the Probert family on their Monmouthshire farm and converting to an organic system is the option that will be explored during a farm open day next week.

Graham and Sarah Probert's Great Bottom Farm at Penrhos, Raglan is part of the network of Farming Connect Sheep and Beef Demonstration Farms.

The 87-hectare – 215-acre – lowland farm is predominantly grassland with seven hectares of red clover and seven hectares of triticale. The farm accommodates 350 crossbred ewes and 60 suckler cows.

The couple are opening up their farm at 11am on Thursday, January 24 in an event organised by the Welsh meat promotion agency Hybu Cig Cymru as part of the Farming Connect Sheep and Beef Demonstration Farm Project.

"With agricultural subsidies changing, many farmers are thinking about the future of their business, their profitability and what options are available to them," said HCC technology transfer officer Lisa Evans. The open day will focus on the possible conversion of the farm to an organic system with Will John from Adas on hand to outline the details of the scheme and answer any questions.