Cropping at Dalswinton

As the farming landscape changes, how does Dalswinton make the most of its land?

Dalswinton benefits from fertile land running up to the of the River Nith through to hill ground on the edge of the catchment. This has historically provided the ideal ground for a beef herd.

In 2022/23 the input costs of fertiliser, diesel and contracting costs resulted in an £81 loss per cow. This, combined with the subsidy regime planning to be changed in 2026, requires Dalswinton to look carefully at its farming system but in particular how the land is utilised for cropping.

It is predicted that in 2026 subsidy for agriculture will change from an area-based subsidy to an environmental type of payment. Therefore, a key question is how do we best utilise the land on the estate and most importantly how do we look after it for future generations while making it productive and at the same time, ‘sustainable’.

As the political landscape changes and the policy politicians are applying to land use evolves, Dalswinton has to evaluate its own agricultural systems. By analysing our current farming system and comparing it with other land use options, we are forming an opinion as to what is a sustainable system for the future.

It is still early days and there is much to learn, but by measuring what we are doing today, comparing it with other options, we will define a route to sustainable farming practices. We do require leadership from Government and other agricultural bodies.

Dalswinton Facts

• The herd is 550 suckler cows
• The breeds consist of Blue Greys, Luings, and Shorthorn. They are then crossed with an Aberdeen-Angus. The terminal sire is a Charolais.
• Stores are sold at 10 to 12 months old at an average weight of 400kg

Each week on the lead up to Scotland’s Beef Event at Dalswinton, Peter will put together a headline of information with a different subject area about the herd. The publication schedule is as follows:

1                              Introduction to Dalswinton

2                              Production of beef at Dalswinton

3                              Marketing of beef at Dalswinton

4                              Controlling cost at Dalswinton

5                              Cropping at Dalswinton

6                              Carbon and Biodiversity position at Dalswinton

7                              Financial support at Dalswinton

8                              Application of modern technology options at Dalswinton

9                              The future at Dalswinton

If you are interested in finding out more about the Dalswinton Estate beef enterprise and the future of Scottish beef production, head along to Scotland’s Beef Event at Dalswinton Estate, Dumfriesshire, on Tuesday, 6 June. Tickets are now available to purchase so don't forget to take advantage of the Early Bird discount.