ABOUT SANDY BACK FARM
WELCOME!
Land Transition
New land means going through a transition phase.
Our aim is to produce high quality products without the use of artificial fertilisers or synthetic chemicals.
Most paddocks are in this transition period.
We recognise changing management practices requires a long term perspective in regards to the biological decisions regarding soil fertility, plant nutrition and weed control, with the conversion period taking possibly three years or more.
We also know this means having a different mind set and taking the time to learn the best approach moving forward. This may also mean selecting different crop choices in future to ensure we do not deplete the soil of organic matter.
Livestock pastures
Meanwhile our livestock paddocks are being naturally cleared by the "pigness of pigs", inspired by Joel Salatin from Polyface Farm, Virginia.
These pigs are than followed by our hens to encourage further spreading of manure.
While heritage breeds may not suit commercial farming practices the benefits of hardier livestock includes being better suited to outdoor conditions.
Raising free range animals allows them to get the benefit of a natural quality life and allows us to get natural soil improving inputs.