The story so far...
Richard and Jane Middleton have farmed at Lochhill since 2010. The farm has been managed organically. They kept cattle and sheep, and over time planted 6hectares of native broadleaf trees and hedges.
In 2023, recognising their advancing ages and wanting to give something back to the community, they reached out to Propagate through the Regenerative Farming Network to help develop ideas for the future.
Developing the baseline
During 2024, Propagate worked with Richard and Jane to undertake a baseline analysis of Lochhill, which included soil health and function, biodiversity using iNaturalist, and a whole farm system analysis using the Public Goods Toolkit.
Events were held including a community 'Bioblitz' and Biodiversity Recording Training.
A roundtable event was held with other farmers from the Regenerative Farming Network to brainstorm farm enterprises that could contribute to future resilience.
Invited experts on holistic management, regenerative grazing, cow with calf dairy, market gardening, pastured poultry, and education programmes have contributed to discussions and farm visits to explore the viability and feasibility of these enterprises in more depth.
The next phase begins...
The team commissioned Daniel Stout to help to help pull the baseline data together into an Integrated Land Management Plan.
At the end of 2024 the decision was taken to create a new Community Interest Company. New partners were approached to join as Directors.
A herd of Shetland cattle has been purchased to begin the dairy adventure, and we are looking for funding to set up a market garden. We are actively seeking people to get involved.
An events programme was developed for 2025, drawing on feedback from the baseline phase.
Enterprises start to grow
The end of 2025 and start of 2026 saw the growth of two fledgling enterprises at Lochhill Farm. Emily joined the team to create a market garden on site. Jonathan, Helen and Mark began work on training the cattle in a new milking parlour and preparing the ground work for future dairy production.
Nature's Ally Market Garden
Emily has joined Lochhill as the new Grower, setting up her market garden enterprise Nature Ally. She has been working on large organic veg farms for several years and felt ready to take on her own challenge.
Shetland Cattle Dairy and Beef Herd
Jonathan and Helen are leading the development of the Micro-Dairy. Jonathan comes from 4 generations of dairy farmers in the Italian Alps and now works for the GSA Biosphere. Helen works as Sustainability Manager at Marks and Spencer. They bring a passion for nature, cows and cheese!
Mark discovered Lochhill by happy accident whilst on holiday. After 13 years working on a market garden, with cattle in Suffolk. He has now relocated to D&G to help in the Micro-Dairy team.