James Small
NFU Livestock board National AppointeeJames is a third-generation farmer and is married with two children.
He is a partner in a mixed livestock and diversified family farm business in Somerset which covers nearly 500 hectares on a range of owned and tenanted land in a combination of environmental agreements including the SFI23.
James' farm has two main farming enterprises: a 1,500 head sheep flock managed on an extensive system lambing outdoors in May, and a closed herd of 80 spring calving cows using Pedigree Aberdeen Angus genetics.
Complementary to the farming operations is a glamping business of both tents and luxury wooden lodges operating from April to October, and a dog exercising paddock.
Providing filming locations has also been a part of the mix, from major productions to car adverts being filmed on the farm.
James has been active within the NFU representing members for several years, whilst simultaneously encouraging others into representation within branches, counties, and boards.
James enjoys providing farm tours for the glamping guests where he can talk about what the farm, food production and farming in general.
This has often led to some interesting conversations and challenges, but it鈥檚 good to be challenged as it makes you question your perceptions and perhaps opens new opportunities.