Teesdale
Fri 10th Sep 2010
Agriculture
Teesdale's large farming community has developed animal husbandry and land management techniques through generations and they continue to embrace new techniques and technology. They have established a national reputation for prizewinning cattle and sheep, attracting notable buyers from all over the UK to local auction marts.
Dotted throughout Teesdale's landscape you can clearly see the whitewashed farms and houses that form the Raby Estate. Some of the farms have even been in the same family for hundreds of years.
Teesdale's farmers enhance and protect thousands of acres of grazing, moorland and arable countryside, a fact that is acknowledged by the designation of Widdybank and Moorhouse as a National Nature Reserve. Many farms in Teesdale are also part of the national Environmentally Sensitive Area and Countryside Stewardship Schemes, where farming practices are adapted to conserve and enhance flora and fauna. There are areas of managed woodland, large and small, many of which can be enjoyed through walks, cycling and nature trails.
Since May 2000, the Farming community has worked together as members of the Upper Teesdale Agricultural Support Services who provide opportunities for skills development, advice, support and socialising.
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