Do farms still use horses? How can heavy horses be used in sustainable farming? What are the benefits of horse-powered agriculture?

 

Yes, farms like Hitch-In Farm in the Crychan Forest, West Wales, still use horses. Heavy horses at Hitch-In Farm are used to perform a variety of tasks that contribute to sustainable farming. For instance, they plough the fields, transport bales of hay, and manage the land with minimal use of fossil fuels. These tasks are essential for maintaining the farm's operations while minimizing its environmental impact. The benefits of horse-powered agriculture, as demonstrated at Hitch-In Farm, include reduced environmental impact, preservation of traditional skills, and enhanced soil health.

 

Deep in the Crychan Forest is Hitch-In Farm, a 30-acre piece of land managed and cultivated solely by horsepower. Here, horse-drawn ploughs and sledges bore furrows through the soil, transport bales and wood to where they are needed, and help manage the land sustainably with minimal use of fossil fuels. Run by Mike and Ellie Paddock, Hitch-In Farm is a testament to how traditional farming methods coexist with modern sustainability practices. In this episode of The Curious Equestrian, Anna Louise talks with Ellie Paddock.

 

 

The Origins of Hitch-In Farm

Mike and Ellie Paddock's journey together began with a shared passion for horses and sustainable living. Ellie, with a background in ecology, and Mike, an experienced horse logger, combined their skills and visions to create Hitch-In Farm. Ellie's love for horses began in her childhood, riding Arabs through the desert in the Middle East, while Mike's fascination with working horses started early, acquiring his first heavy horse stallion at the age of 17. His expertise grew through a British horse loggers apprenticeship and as the head horseman for the Prince of Wales at the Tetbury estate. Their combined experiences and commitment to sustainable farming led them to establish Hitch-In Farm, where they could fully integrate their knowledge and passion.

 

Life at Hitch In Farm: A Sustainable Approach

Hitch-In Farm spans 30 acres of diverse landscape, where horse-drawn equipment is used to cultivate and manage the land. The farm is largely self-sufficient as a small-scale farm, emphasizing sustainability and minimal use of fossil fuels. Mike and Ellie use modern equipment that is purely horse-powered, such as the I&J hitch cart, which allows them to use modern balers and other conventional tractor machinery with a PTO shaft when pulled by a team of horses. In 2016, they produced 700 bales without using a drop of fuel, showcasing the farm's dedication to eco-friendly practices.

 

The Heavy Horse Team

At the heart of Hitch-In Farm are 14 heavy horses, each contributing uniquely to the farm's operations. These horses, including Brabants, Bretons, and Ardennes, are not just workers; they are integral members of the farm family, each with distinct personalities and strengths. This unique bond between humans and horses is what drives the farm's mission and makes it a truly special place.

 

Training and Developing Horses

Training young and new horses to work on the farm is a detailed and patient process. Mike and Ellie emphasize gentle training methods, focusing on incremental steps to build confidence and skills. Their approach ensures that each horse is well-prepared for the diverse tasks required on the farm. The Paddocks' breeding practices aim to create the perfect working foals, combining the best traits of different breeds to ensure health, strength, and temperament.

 

Preserving Rare Breeds and Traditional Skills

Among the breeds at Hitch-In Farm, the Breton stands out as a rare breed. This draft horse breed from the Brittany region of France was nearly extinct in the mid-20th century before conservation efforts helped revive its population. Today, the Breton remains one of the rarer European draft breeds. Mike and Ellie are passionate about preserving this breed and the traditional skills associated with horse-powered farming.

The Paddocks' breeding practices aim to enhance the health and versatility of their horses. They crossbreed their heavy horses with cobs to combine the best traits, such as strength, temperament, and resilience. This approach helps mitigate health issues often found in purebred heavy horses, ensuring a robust and capable working team.

By breeding their own horses and sharing their knowledge through training courses and social media, Mike and Ellie strive to make these invaluable skills accessible to a broader audience. Their unwavering commitment to maintaining genetic diversity and preserving traditional farming methods not only safeguards the future of breeds like the Breton but also keeps the rich heritage of horse-powered farming alive. Their efforts are a testament to the enduring bond between humans and horses and the sustainable potential of traditional agricultural practices.

 

Diverse Farm Tasks and Activities

The versatility of Hitch-In Farm's horses is astounding. From logging and ploughing to more unique activities like chariot racing, these horses are trained to perform a wide array of tasks. The farm also engages in community events, demonstrating their horses' capabilities in various settings, including tug-of-war competitions and local fairs.

 

Challenges and Triumphs

Running a farm powered by horses comes with its own set of unique challenges. From managing the health and training of the horses to balancing the diverse tasks required on the farm, Mike and Ellie face numerous hurdles. These challenges include the physical demands of working with heavy horses, the need for specialized equipment, and the time and effort required for training and care. However, their dedication and innovative approaches have led to significant triumphs. They have built a supportive community, both locally and online, and have inspired many with their commitment to sustainable farming.

 

Looking Ahead: Future Goals

Mike and Ellie's vision for Hitch-In Farm continues to evolve. Future plans include introducing cattle to diversify their farming operations further, aligning with their commitment to sustainable and diverse farming practices. They also plan to expand their educational outreach, sharing their knowledge and experiences with a broader audience. Their ongoing commitment to preserving traditional farming methods while embracing modern sustainability ensures that Hitch-In Farm will continue to be a model for ecological farming, inspiring others to consider the possibilities of horse-powered agriculture.

 

Final Thoughts

Hitch-In Farm is more than just a farm; it's a testament to the power of sustainable living and the incredible bond between humans and horses. Mike and Ellie Paddock have created a unique space where traditional farming methods meet modern sustainability, inspiring countless others to consider the possibilities of horse-powered agriculture.

To dive deeper into their fascinating journey, listen to the full podcast discussion and get inspired by their story.

 

Listen to the Podcast:

 

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Whether you're an equestrian enthusiast or simply curious about sustainable farming, Hitch-In Farm offers a wealth of inspiration and practical insights. Join the journey and discover the power of heavy horses in transforming agriculture.