Hill farming

Hill farming countryside - geograph.org.uk - 1007950

United Kingdom relief location map

Dartmoor sheep

Grey Faced Dartmoor

Hill farming countryside by the Arkland Burn - geograph.org.uk - 806792

Hill farming refers to the practice of farming and agricultural management in upland areas. Unlike lowland farming, hill farming is typically associated with livestock, particularly sheep and cattle, due to the challenging terrain and less fertile soil. This form of agriculture is common in various parts of the world, including the United Kingdom, particularly in Scotland, Wales, and Northern England, as well as in other countries with significant upland terrain such as parts of Norway, New Zealand, and the Appalachian Mountains in the United States.

Characteristics

Hill farming is characterized by a harsher climate, steeper slopes, and poorer soils, which generally makes crop cultivation more difficult and less productive than in more level and fertile areas. As a result, hill farming is often focused on livestock, which can graze on the natural vegetation. The main activities include sheep farming, cattle rearing, and in some areas, the cultivation of hardy crops such as oats or barley. The extensive nature of hill farming means that animals are often free to roam over large areas of land.

Challenges

Hill farmers face numerous challenges, including:

• Environmental: The terrain and climate of upland areas can be harsh, with colder temperatures, higher rainfall, and stronger winds than in lowland areas.
• Economic: Hill farming is often less profitable than other types of farming, due to the lower productivity of the land and the costs associated with managing livestock in difficult terrain.
• Social: Rural isolation, lack of services, and sometimes limited access to markets can affect the quality of life for hill farmers and their families.

Sustainable Practices

In recent years, there has been an increasing focus on sustainable practices in hill farming. This includes managing the land in a way that preserves biodiversity, prevents overgrazing, and protects the environment. Examples of sustainable practices include rotational grazing, maintaining hedgerows and dry stone walls, and the use of renewable energy sources.

Government Support

Many governments provide support to hill farmers due to the environmental and social benefits they provide, including maintaining landscapes, preserving rural communities, and contributing to food security. Support mechanisms may include direct payments, subsidies for environmental stewardship, and assistance with diversification efforts.

Cultural Significance

Hill farming has a deep cultural significance in many regions, shaping the landscape, local traditions, and community life. Festivals, fairs, and sheepdog trials are among the cultural practices closely associated with hill farming communities.

See Also

• Agriculture
• Sustainable agriculture
• Pastoral farming
• Sheep farming
• Cattle farming