July 2021

Approaching the finishing line

Last month I was lucky enough to visit a finishing unit, and two breeding units, all indoors. One farm visit was different from the next, from vaccinations to weighing, local farms to a trip to Anglesey. The variety of producers was a great reminder for me about how ‘one size does not fit all’, each requiring a unique feed regime and service from ForFarmers.

Furthering my Excel skills

I have continued my learning of statistical analysis, combining different excel formulas. Having spent a lot of time familiarising myself with excel over this past year, I feel a lot more confident going into my final year of Harper Adams University where I utilise these skills in my final research project.

I am preparing to present to the pig team my finding from my projects, including market research and the commercial trial on outdoor creep feeding I have been focussing on. It feels rewarding to see my projects coming together.

Enjoying the summer

I’ve been enjoying my evening dips in the sea, and picnics whilst watching the combines at work. I ventured to the Cotswolds, where I visited the Diddly Squat Farm shop, featured on 'Clarkson's Farm'.

The most exciting part of July was introducing the newest farm worker on my Grandad’s farm; Kylie the Australian Kelpie.

Approaching the finishing line

Holly with Kylie the Australian Kelpie

As my final month at ForFarmers draws to a close, I’ll be bringing all my projects to a close, handing over any ongoing projects to the next placement student, Stephen Evans.

I aim to get as many experiences out of my final few weeks, and of course, a few piglet cuddles will not go amiss!