News | 28/08/2024

Made in Huntingdonshire: T H Branson & Son - Cowpasture Farm

T H Branson & Son - Cowpasture Farm

Introduction

T H Branson & Son are based at Cowpasture located in Glatton, Huntingdonshire, and stands as a beacon of sustainable farming practices and social regeneration. Spanning 220 acres, this family-run mixed farm is home to thriving cereal crops and a pedigree herd of Aberdeen Angus cattle. Under the stewardship of seventh-generation farmer Matt Branson and his wife Stacey Branson, Cowpasture Farm is not just a farm; it’s a living testament to the Branson family’s commitment to sustainable food production, environmental schemes, community engagement, and agricultural innovation.

Matt Branson, a qualified advanced agricultural engineer, still repairs machinery for local farms in Huntingdonshire and Cambridgeshire. Stacey, an agricultural adviser, holds a Degree in Land Management, BASIS certification in Soil and Water Management, and a certificate in ruminant nutrition. Matt’s parents, Brian and Shirley, live at Cowpasture with Brian still working full-time on the farm. The true asset of Cowpasture Farm is the generational knowledge transfer and rich understanding of the land, ensuring that the farm’s legacy is preserved and enhanced for future generations.

 

Back to Basics with Farming

At Cowpasture Farm, the approach to farming is deeply rooted in tradition, yet innovatively progressive.

The farm’s regenerative agricultural ethos has been honed over a century, focusing

on maintaining soil health and promoting biodiversity. Livestock plays a crucial role in this

approach, contributing organic manure that enhances soil fertility and supports the soil food

web and nutrient cycling, creating a robust environment for worm activity. This cycle has

resulted in exceeding above-average organic matter levels in the farm’s heavy clay soils.

However, recent DNA testing reveals that the farm’s history extends beyond livestock. The tests discovered the presence of grape DNA sequences used in Roman-era vineyards and an early/ancient variety of wheat typical of a more Mediterranean climate. This fascinating find suggests that the Romans once lived on this land, enjoying bread and wine amidst a warmer Huntingdonshire climate. “We now know the Romans were living their best life on the farm, eating bread, drinking wine, and clearly the climate was warmer in Huntingdonshire back then!” said Matt.

The farm’s dedication to maintaining over seven miles of hedgerow fosters an abundance of wildlife, from barn owls and kestrels to voles that thrive in the herbal leys grown for forage. These practices not only preserve the natural habitat but also ensure a balanced ecosystem where agriculture and nature coexist harmoniously.

 

Environmental Benefits

The Branson’s commitment to sustainable food production and environmental sustainability is evident in its

 proactive initiatives. The farm is actively engaged with the Alconbury Flood Group, helping to develop and create Natural Flood Management solutions on the farm.

Instead of ‘hard’ engineering involving diggers and concrete, using the natural environment,

natures materials and nature-based approaches to reducing flood risk in Huntingdonshire

villages. The farm is also working with the flood group on a ‘Deep Roots to Resilience’ project

using Herbal Leys, wild bird covers in partnership with Anglian Water, Natural England, and the

Environment Agency. The farms natural capital approach provides the evidence base to

underpin a system that leverages the value of non-extractive areas of land. These projects aim

to enhance the farm’s capacity to store and manage water, demonstrating the farm’s role in combating climate change.

Moreover, the farm’s conservation efforts have helped increase the barn owl and kestrel population. These conservation projects highlight its dedication to preserving local wildlife. The installation of ‘Owl Cam’ and ‘Kestrel Cam’ to monitor and support these species, reinforces the commitment to enhancing biodiversity.

“Our commitment to regenerative agriculture has not only enhanced soil and livestock health but also created a thriving habitat for wildlife, including barn owls and kestrels that flourish due to the voles residing in the herbal leys grown for forage.”

 

Cosmic Aberdeen Angus Herd

Livestock have always been at the heart of Cowpasture Farm, playing a fundamental role over the last 100 years in shaping the soils and ecosystems through a regenerative agricultural approach. This method has resulted in above-average organic matter levels in heavy clay soils, and a farm brimming with biodiversity.

While commercial cattle have always been part of the farm, the family’s passion for pedigree Aberdeen Angus cattle began with the desire to breed replacement stock bulls.

“The Cosmic Aberdeen Angus Herd reflects our dedication to using exceptional genetics from all over the world and following our own breeding ethos. In particular focusing on adapting

and becoming more resilient in the face of climate change by carefully selecting genetics. Occasionally, we sell small numbers of pedigree stock for breeding, aiming to promote quality traits that align with our principles.”

This herd represents the Branson’s commitment to sustainable farming practices and agricultural innovation, ensuring the continued health and vitality of the farm’s soils and livestock are paramount.

 

Social Regeneration and Economic Development

Cowpasture Farm is more than just a centre of agricultural excellence; it’s a hub for social regeneration. The Branson family’s vision extends to creating educational and economic opportunities for the local community.

“It’s really important to us that we can keep our family farm and not be the generation that

loses it. We are working harder in a different way to our ancestors. Sometimes being smaller can be better when it comes to the care and attention given to areas. We have over 7 miles of hedgerow,  good soil health and thriving livestock. We always say our cattle are ‘farmed with love’. So, we are exploring opportunities that can diversify the family’s business.”

By working with the Economic Development team and exploring funding opportunities, the farm has the potential to diversify into new areas such as a venue with catering facilities. This educational aspect will equip local residents with valuable skills, fostering an inclusive economy where businesses and education providers work closely together.

 

Renewable Energy, Sustainability and Resilience

Recognising the critical importance of renewable energy, the farm is exploring ways to reduce energy costs, which are a significant burden for any rural businesses. By investing in renewable energy solutions, the farm aims to further its commitment to sustainability and support the Council’s goal of creating a better Huntingdonshire for future generations. With living on one of the highest points in Huntingdonshire, the farm wants to harness the power of the wind and sun.

The farm has installed rainwater harvesting tanks on all buildings, this reduces the need for imported water and preserves precious groundwater resources in Huntingdonshire for future use. Water bills are reduced, and the tanks act as a countermeasure to help with natural flood management by reducing water run-off. The farm has also been working with Cambridgeshire Fire Service on an initiative where rainwater harvesting tanks can be used in an emergency as a water resource for rural areas. This initiative is due to roll out August/September 2024.

 

Traditional Farming and Sustainability

Cowpasture Farm exemplifies the harmonious blend of traditional farming practices and modern sustainability initiatives. Through its regenerative agricultural approach, environmental and conservation projects, community-focused diversification plans, the farm is a model of how agriculture can thrive while supporting social and environmental goals.

By maintaining its family legacy and embracing innovation, the Branson family are not only preserving the farm’s heritage but also contributing to a vibrant and sustainable future for Huntingdonshire.

 

Why Huntingdonshire?

“As 7th generation farmers, we are blending traditional farming methods with innovative, regenerative practices, resulting in significant environmental benefits such as enhanced soil health, livestock health and increased biodiversity. Maintaining our legacy is essential, and Huntingdonshire provides the right setting for our commitment to sustainable farming, enhancing the value of natural capital, and community engagement."