Dolygarn project update - August

Water system for sub-division at Dolygarn

One of the main constraints when thinking of implementing a rotational grazing system and sub-dividing larger fields is the water supply.  With some fields being as large as 60 acres, this is definitely one of the biggest limiting factors for James Powell when thinking of sub-dividing his fields.  One of the main aims of this project was to calculate the financial cost of setting up a rotational grazing system; costing the infrastructure needed as well as the return on investment.  Consultant James Daniel of Precision Grazing has designed a proposed water system, as well as basic sub-division for 6 of Dolygarn’s largest fields (as seen below).  Progress will be limited now until these investments are made.  A £10,000 investment has been calculated for installing the water system as seen below.

The table below shows the Pipe width that would be needed in each field;

Sub-division of fields at Dolygarn

The estimated cost of investing in infrastructure for sub-division of Dolygarn’s 6 largest fields have been calculated at around £3,000.  Without this investment, his 6 largest fields (around half the farm) are compromising the farm’s output, and the ability to ration feed for the winter.

The table below shows the length of fence that would be needed to sub-divide 6 of Dolygarn largest fields to begin a basic rotational grazing system;

James now has to decide whether he will invest an estimated £13,000 on water and fencing infrastructure to fully implement a rotational grazing system at Dolygarn.  The return on investment is estimated to pay itself back fully within 2 years, with saving costs of bought in feed and tack over the winter months, and with increased outputs.