Farmers in Nidderdale are being invited to take part in visits that will help them see innovative ways of farming to make their land more productive, their animals healthier and their bank balances better.

On 25 September, farmers across the dale are invited to visit two working farms at Aldburgh Estate that are pioneering different approaches to livestock and land management.

The visit, organised by Nidderdale National Landscape in partnership with Pasture for Life, will showcase innovations proving successful in commercial farming operations.

"This isn't just about theory – it's about real farmers achieving real results," says Matt Trevelyan, FiPL Officer at Nidderdale National Landscape.

"We're inviting every farmer and land manager in the area to come and see for themselves how innovative practices are building more resilient, profitable and wildlife-rich farming systems right here in Nidderdale."

At Bales Farm, Healey - positioned on the edge of moorland - managers are implementing Adaptive Multi-Paddock grazing systems. With funding support, the operation has invested in water and fencing infrastructure enabling planned rotation of native Angus cattle across multiple paddocks.

The system has reduced reliance on harvested grass while building soil health and supporting increased plant diversity and bird populations. The team has been trialling "bale grazing" techniques proving effective in the upland environment.

Matt Trevelyan describes Bales Farm as one of the most inspiring sites he has visited this year: "The farm team are farming in an innovative manner, acutely aware of the need to build soil health and biodiversity," he said.

"I'm particularly interested to see how these adaptive grazing systems deliver both intended and incidental benefits for nature."

The beef suckler herd is split between Bales and South Cote Farm, where there is a small area of arable land. It is intended that the arable land will focus on grain production for direct human consumption rather than animal feed. With 85% of UK grain currently produced for livestock, transitioning to "in conversion" milling grains for human food markets represents significant commercial opportunity.

The event features specialist speakers from leading organisations. Chirrup, which uses artificial intelligence to monitor wildlife through acoustic devices, will demonstrate how technology tracks biodiversity changes in Nidderdale.

Nelly Trevelyan from Yorkshire Organic Millers will present insights into the Yorkshire Grain Alliance and developments in locally sourced grain production for artisan baking.

Matt Trevelyan will launch the "Catch the Rain Project", measuring soil improvements that enhance water infiltration and storage capacity, supporting drought resilience and flood prevention strategies.

The farm visit forms part of the "Pasture and Profit in Protected Landscapes" programme, supporting farmers across five areas in Northern England. Funded through government agricultural transition allocations, the programme provides one-to-one mentoring, educational events and membership of a progressive producer’s network.

Participation carries no obligation to adopt specific systems or pursue certification. The programme supports farmers at all stages, from those exploring alternatives to those actively implementing changes.

Services include access to experienced farmer mentors for on-site consultations, regular educational events covering soil health and marketing innovations, and connections to farming communities addressing similar challenges.

The initiative builds on successful projects across Nidderdale, where the Farming in Protected Landscapes programme has funded diverse projects from soil carbon monitoring with dairy farmers to boundary restoration involving dry stone walls and hedge planting.

Farmer-led innovation

"We're not asking farmers to take our word for it," says Matt, who has supported everything from upland sheep enterprises to innovative grain producers in transitioning to more sustainable systems. "We're showing them the results.

“These are the people who know their land the best, and it's no wonder that they are inspired to come up with some brilliant projects that benefit both their businesses and nature.

“Come and see for yourself how your fellow farmers are building more resilient, profitable and wildlife-rich systems. The future of farming in Nidderdale is being written by farmers - and this is their chance to be part of that story."

The approach reflects growing recognition that farmers are often the primary source of practical innovation, with detailed understanding of their land and local conditions.

Recent workshops on grazing techniques have attracted farmers investigating how reduced artificial inputs combined with improved soil health management can maintain or enhance production in commercial operations.

Economic pressures drive change

With fertiliser costs remaining elevated and weather patterns increasingly variable, farmers are seeking methods to build system resilience while maintaining profitability.

Both demonstration farms focus on working with natural processes rather than intensive intervention, potentially reducing dependence on expensive inputs while creating systems better adapted to climate variability.

The rotational grazing system at Bales Farm enhances soil health through natural processes, while South Cote Farm's focus on direct human food production targets premium market opportunities. Both approaches offer potential for improved financial returns alongside environmental benefits.

The farm visit takes place on Thursday 25 September 2025 at Aldburgh Estate, Nidderdale. Places are limited and advance booking is required. Registration is available via Eventbrite at: north-positivechange-aldburghestate-sept25.eventbrite.co.uk

The event is organised by Nidderdale National Landscape and Pasture for Life as part of the government-funded "Pasture and Profit in Protected Landscapes" programme.