This time last year I wrote what an amazing dry spell we’d had – the ‘perfect summer for farming here in the Lakes’. Well, this year has been one for the record books. As almost three-quarters of England moved into drought conditions, Cumbria was given ‘prolonged dry weather’ status. Not quite a drought but certainly unprecedented conditions for us.

In these extra hot conditions, the livestock can suffer heat stress so the benefits of our wood pastures and coppices have really stood out, as cows and sheep sought shade from the sun and were able to keep cool. And the greenery around the edges of trees and shrubs provides much-needed extra grazing and variety from the drying grass.  

This summer has made it very clear that as we move into more frequent warmer periods, our newly created wood pasture scheme on School Knot and Grandsire is going to be crucial for farming successfully and safely in future rising temperatures.

We had to keep a close eye on water sources for the animals too, as streams and ponds for drinking from were quickly drying up. We had to move stock to ensure they always had access to fresh, clean water, which luckily wasn’t too much of a problem for us. We really do feel for farming peers further south who’ve faced enormous challenges this summer with zero grass in front of them and failing crops.

Otherwise it was business as usual, with sheep shearing, mowing to make winter feed and weaning the lambs from the sheep.   

It’s already cooling down and it won’t be long before it will be time for the autumn lamb sales and we’ll be thinking forward to tupping time – putting the male rams back in with the ewes to start the cycle all over again.

We’re actually recruiting for a new shepherd for the farm so if you know anyone who would be interested in the role, working on this unique organic farm, please do spread the word and contact me for more details: [email protected]