Bugeilus Fawr

Integrated Pest Management for grassland and arable systems

Bugeilus Fawr is a 320-acre mixed farming operation located on the Lleyn Peninsula in Wales. The farm's primary emphasis is livestock production, utilising a 6-7 year pasture rotation system alongside the annual cultivation of 30 acres of spring barley. To enhance soil health and forage quality, red clover and diverse herbal leys are incorporated into the rotation. 

The farm maintains a 120-head Belgian Blue cross, Limousin cross suckler herd (including replacements) with Charolais and Limousin bulls, in addition to a 500-head Texel x Mule sheep flock.

This project seeks to develop a comprehensive Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategy for Bugeilus Fawr. The focus will encompass both the farm's grassland and arable systems. 

The primary aim is to establish effective and sustainable pest management strategies that prioritise reduced reliance on pesticides and other chemical controls. Key objectives include:

• Identifying and assessing prevalent pest species (insects, diseases, weeds, and others) and pressure levels across the farm.
• Emphasising weed management identification for effective control strategies.
• Evaluating the potential of cultural, mechanical, and biological control methods for all identified pests.
• Designing a multi-faceted IPM approach that combines the most suitable practices for Bugeilus Fawr's specific needs.

A successful IPM strategy will offer Bugeilus Fawr the following potential benefits:

• Improved crop and livestock health through reduced pressures from pests, diseases, and weeds.
• Reduced pesticide use, promoting ecological health and potentially reducing input costs.
• Enhanced biodiversity due to supporting beneficial insect populations and natural pest control mechanisms.

The project will also contribute to the Sustainable Land Management outcomes including:

1. Resource efficiency
2. Reduced greenhouse gas emissions
3. Protected natural landscapes and historic environment
4. High animal health and welfare
5. Clean Water, Mitigate flood & drought risk