Farming & Land Management

Over 80% of the Dorset AONB is farmland, and it's largely the history of farming that has shaped and maintained this beautiful landscape.  Farm types are as various as the landscape reflecting the soil types and terrain. The best agricultural land in the AONB is in the Brit Valley near Bridport which supports horticulture, important for the local markets as well as sales out of the area.  Sheep and cattle grazing is usual for the steepest and/or wettest areas, as well as the very infertile heathlands.  Grazing these areas is essential to maintain their wildlife, and farmers of this land are often eligible for environmental grants to continue.  Dairy farming is common where the land is more fertile and easily cultivated, as is arable farming. Just under half of the AONB is arable; wheat and barley are the main crops. There are a number of orchards (many for cider) and an increasing area planted to vines - perhaps Dorset will be a famous wine area before long! Farming patterns change according to markets and policy.  Current trends are a reduction in the numbers of dairy farms and falling numbers of beef cattle and sheep.  This is a concern for the landscape: the grasslands that this type of farming maintains is an essential part of the AONB's natural beauty.