Farming

Whilst farming has crafted the landscape of the AONB, modern-day agricultural practices threaten its future. The AONB Management Plan identifies the need for more sustainable agricultural land use. Initiatives include encouragement for local grazing networks, promotion of local produce and guidelines for the use of redundant agricultural buildings.

The AONB also encourages take-up of schemes that exist to help and encourage farmers to farm for wildlife. The reform of CAP will enable farmers to pursue a more environmental agenda, at the same time giving them flexibility to take advantage of market opportunities and consumer preference. For information on the reforms, see http://www.defra.gov.uk for farming in England, and http://www.countryside.wales.gov.uk for farming in Wales.

The Wye Valley AONB also runs the annual Farming Awards which alternates between Small Farms under 100 hectares and Large Farms over 100 hectares. Each year the winning farmer wins a substantial cash prize whch is awarded at the Monmouthshire Show. Last year's winners Liz Vice and Mark O Brien from Mabley Farm, Woolhope, Herfordshire were recorded on Countryfile.

A family farm event has been organised at Mabley Farm on Sunday June 17,
as part of Open Farm Sunday a national farm awareness and environment day organised by LEAF.