Alun Bowen

EAST CARMARTHENSHIRE

Alun Bowen is the Farming Connect development officer for North Carmarthenshire.

A graduate of Aberystwyth University, Alun lives at home on the family sheep farm in Llanfihangel-ar-Arth, near Llandysul.

“I spend most of my free time helping out with our flock of 550 improved Welsh and Texel cross breed ewes, where our focus is on producing high-quality lamb from grass,” says Alun.

He is keen to encourage farmers in his area to invest in soil sampling and nutrient management planning.

“Knowing how each field performs enables you to concentrate the correct inputs where they are most needed, so that you get the best returns from your investment, and can achieve higher livestock performance with fewer inputs.”

“One of the most rewarding parts of my job is listening to the challenges facing farmers and then providing solutions, by signposting them to an appropriate mix of Farming Connect services, projects and events.  

“It is an important time for farmers to make sure their businesses are performing well. Farming Connect can provide business, technical and personal support services that could help them run their businesses more efficiently and sustainably.”

Alun runs sector-specific discussion groups, where farmers meet regularly to compare performance, share information and gain access to expert advice aimed at improving business competitiveness and viability.