Newly appointed farm manager Toby Greenhalgh has big plans for Suffolk Rural Farm in Otley – part of Suffolk New College.
Mr Greenhalgh, 30, took up the farm manager role at Otley earlier this summer. He is keen to encourage new generations into the industry and wants to engage with local businesses to ensure the college’s agricultural roots continue to thrive.
Originally from The Cotswolds, Mr Greenhalgh went to Hartpury College after GSCEs before working on a dairy farm and spending four years in New Zealand. He then completed a degree in farm management at the Royal Agricultural University, Cirencester.
“My first impressions of the college are very positive,” he says. “I’ve already reached out and met a few local farmers and they have been helpful and supportive. I’m really excited by what we can achieve.”
Clarkson effect
Farming is becoming more popular with youngsters and the wider public, says Mr Greenhalgh. This is not just down to the “Clarkson effect” and social media, he believes – but because people got a taste for outdoor life during Covid.
“It’s also great to see more females coming into the industry. On our T Level course – we have about a 40% to 60% split of males and females. That is different to when I was at college around 14 years ago.”
Agricultural technology is also encouraging people to carve careers in farming and food production. “Drones are going to play a massive part in the farms of the future – even more so than they are now,” says Mr Greenhalgh.
“Looking ahead, I’ve heard about the Suffolk Show and how important it is to the county. I’m really looking forward to attending and we are all systems go for our annual family farm day and community event called Big Day Out.
Soil health
“I have big plans to expand the farm. I do a weekly farm walk to look at the crops, hedges, wildlife and grass. Our grass isn’t very good here at the moment so we will put a focus into improving this and the health of the soil.”
This will enable the farm to support more livestock, says Mr Greenhalgh, who is keen to strengthen links with local businesses, communities and the next generation – including via the college farm shop
“I’ve already spoken to some neighbouring farms, and I want to talk to our long term supporters like the Felix Cobbold Trust and the Suffolk Agricultural Association, agronomists and suppliers and to come and chat to us.
Working together
“We will have a bite to eat at Christmas, have look around the farm and see how we can best work together for the benefit of the industry. My message to everyone is – come and work with us.
“It’s important to work with the local community and try and inspire youngsters to consider farming as a future career. Ultimately, that is what the college is all about.”
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