Distance Sheep Farming

ChewyLuey

Hi All

I have a farm of ~40 acres which can be categorised roughly into 20 acres of reasonable ground and 20 acres of more uneven less fertile ground (rocky, furze/gorse/heather-covered). I have a stake in some commonage also. I inherited it from a family member and for the last year or two have not been actively farming it. I live 1.5 hours away from the farm.

Keeping cattle is not an option for me due to distance but I am considering the option of buying some sheep. About 20 sheep would ensure that I receive the "Disadvantaged Area Payment" (would meet the minimum stocking level) and could also tie in nicely with a REPS 4 plan. Things to consider before buying these would be:

- wiring costs to secure sheep
- investment of time needed at weekends to insure healthiness (shearing, dipping etc)
- not having a dog
- living distance from the farm

I have been advised that living so far and away and and not seeing the animals every day won't be a problem and that the sheep can graze quite happily if left (was given the example of sheep up a mountain who are rarely seen by their owners). Does anyone have thoughts or advice on this ? Recommendations on breeds to purchase, prices to pay etc ?

Thanks

fits

You're mad!

I think you'd really need someone to be checking them every day. Sheep have a frightening fondness for breaking out (at least our sheep do). So adequate fencing is a definite must and they'll still find a way out

You would also need do dedicate at least one morning every weekend to dosing, treating footrot, dagging etc.

They are the most care-intensive animals ever. Could you help out on another farm for a while to see if you'll be willing to do it? Or pay a neighbouring farmer to look after them/do the dirty work for you?

doctor evil

Worst comes to worse Chewyluey you can always rent out the land as grazing for horses.

fits

doctor evil wrote: »

Worst comes to worse Chewyluey you can always rent out the land as grazing for horses.

He wouldnt qualify for REPS or the direct payment then, which is the whole point of keeping the sheep I'd imagine.

Carpenter

doctor evil wrote: »

Worst comes to worse Chewyluey you can always rent out the land as grazing for horses.

For what 100 a acre (sorry just asking) I to am in the same boat 1.5 hrs away from the farm got it off the family in a will

The_Conductor

I'd have to agree- I think its entirely insane to keep sheep and live an hour and a half away from the place. We had a flock of half bred suffolks- the number of times they escaped is not funny. During the lambing season- its a fulltime job tending them.

Have you considered aforestation? The premia are reasonable enough, and if you live as far away from the farm as you do, it may something that you should actively consider.

Unfortunately- even for part-time farming, living an hour and a half away from place is not the best.......