Impact of dwindling hefts on Dartmoor - are we on the verge of losing hefting traditions?

The Radmore family is facing serious challenges in their efforts to maintain the integrity of their hefted sheep and cattle on Dartmoor, while running their business within the constraints of a range of environmental prescriptions

clock • 7 min read
Helen Radmore
Image:

Helen Radmore

Sheep and cattle hefts on the Dartmoor commons will break down if the individual heft falls below 0.05-0.08/livestock units per hectare and they will not deliver intended environmental benefits, says Helen...

To continue reading...

Already a member? Login for full access.

Login

New to Farmers Guardian? Register for 1 free article per week or become a member for unlimited access to essential farming news and insights.

article-img-580x358
Register for free Join Now

 

More on Livestock

Farming Matters – Christopher Price: "We can no longer just 'watch' the rare breeds watchlist"
Livestock

Farming Matters – Christopher Price: "We can no longer just 'watch' the rare breeds watchlist"

Rare Breeds Survival Trust chief executive Christopher Price on the latest additions to the most urgent priority watchlist category and what needs to be done to improve the outlook for rare breeds

Farmers Guardian
clock 20 June 2026 • 4 min read
Scottish red meat sector set for £350m growth by 2032
Livestock

Scottish red meat sector set for £350m growth by 2032

Research by Quality Meat Scotland found that consumers want supermarkets to prioritise stocking Scottish red meat over imported alternatives

Rachael Brown
Rachael Brown
clock 18 June 2026 • 2 min read
Opinion: Us farming folk do tend to enjoy a country tune
Livestock

Opinion: Us farming folk do tend to enjoy a country tune

Livestock specialist Katie Fallon on country music concerts and the importance of stepping away from the farm

Katie Fallon
Katie Fallon
clock 17 June 2026 • 1 min read