PIGS & ARABLE, DORSET: Robert farms 395 acres (160 hectares) in the Corton Vale. Most of his land is in arable production, growing wheat and maize on 321 acres (130 hectares).

Much of Robert’s crop production goes towards feeding his 250 sows. He weans and finishes (fattens) all the pigs on the farm. At around five-months-old they are sent for slaughter and sold to a large processor called Tulip. It was bought out in 2019 by the Brazilian-owned meat company JBS. Robert’s pork is sold in British supermarkets and is licensed for export to China and India.

Robert used to run a fully outdoor system but switched to indoor pig production in 2007. This has enabled him to increase productivity significantly. He also believes it has improved the pigs' welfare, and that of his staff. Robert says: "The pigs are now kept in straw-covered yards, which are cooler and shadier in the summer, and also provide better shelter in the winter than an open field."

The sows farrow (give birth) in a slatted unit, inside free farrowing pens known as ‘360s’. These are different to conventional farrowing crates in that the sow has more room and can turn around freely. If needed, the pen can be shut to prevent her from lying on her piglets or protect farm employees who need to enter the pen.

Robert invested £200,000 converting to free farrowing pens in 2014. At the time they were approved under the RSPCA Assured scheme as a higher welfare option, which earned a price premium. However, the RSPCA has since increased the pen size required, which means Robert’s system no longer conforms to their rules. His pork can no longer be sold under the RSPCA Assured scheme - a considerable loss of income. He was also in the Co-op’s Pork Producer Group until the retailer changed their rules stipulating all their pork must be outdoor bred. This means he can no longer supply the Co-op with pork.

Robert, like many farmers, must respond and adapt to changing rules and shifting trends around animal welfare. It can be very costly predicting the long term market trends, but it’s increasingly the reality for modern businesses. Robert is determined to weather the changes so his farm can be passed on to his two children.

He also has 49 acres (20 hectares) of permanent pasture on the farm, which has recently been entered into the Countryside Stewardship scheme with cover crops and wildflower areas.

One of the most interesting features on Robert’s land are the towering electricity pylons which climb the hillside next to his home and farm buildings. They dominate the landscape. Robert has agreed to take part in a pioneering project to bury the electric cables underground – removing the pylons completely. It is purely for aesthetic reasons, to improve the view and is funded by consumers over the lifetime of the project. Work has begun.