Training days with the Hill Farm Project
The Dartmoor Hill Farm Project (HFP) provides year-round training for farmers and local residents involved in managing Dartmoor’s special landscape. HFP is supported by the Prince’s Countryside Fund, the Duchy of Cornwall and Dartmoor National Park Authority; it is also working with the Moor than meets the eye landscape partnership, featured on page 62, to develop a new programme of heritage skills.
23rd/ 24th February, 30th / 31st March
Dry-stone walling – two-day practical courses in February and March
This course will teach participants how to build and repair a dry-stone wall from foundations to capping stones. Led by experienced practitioner Martin Stallard the training will provide all of the key skills required to restore a boundary to a stock-proof condition. The course will also look at different styles and techniques that reflect the available stone. An attendance certificate will be issued.
Where: Postbridge area tbc
Cost: £50.00 for HFP contributors or £60.00 for non-contributors
Booking: Email the Hill Farm Office on hfp@dartmoor.gov.uk or phone 01822 890913
11th April to August
Bee-spoke beginners course for beekeeping on Dartmoor
This course has been designed to meet the challenges of keeping bees on Dartmoor for prospective, new or novice beekeepers. It will include a mixture of theory and practical aspects covering topics from swarming to hive management - 8 sessions commencing in April and running through the season to the honey harvest in August. It will take place at the Buckfast Abbey Bee Department and out on Dartmoor using participant’s hives as the resource for training. The course will be led by Clare Densley from the Abbey’s Bee Department. Book early to avoid disappointment as places are limited.
Where: Buckfast Abbey Bee Department with up to 5 sessions at locations on Dartmoor
When: Weekday afternoons. The first two sessions will be 11th & 18th April, with other dates to be agreed by course participants at approx. 2 per month April to August excluding July.
Cost: £100 for HFP contributors or £120 for non-contributors. Fee to be paid upon booking.
Booking: Email the Hill Farm Office on hfp@dartmoor.gov.uk or phone 01822 890913
Other Information: Bee suits and equipment will be lent out for each session. The course will carry a certificate of attendance.