UK cattle producer says red tape, costs limiting next generation

A young cattle producer in the United Kingdom says there are a several challenges that prevent the next generation from getting started.

19-year-old Aaron Walter says the majority of young producers don’t have the access to funds to get started. “It’s extremely hard. A hundred-thousand pounds wouldn’t even get you in the door to start a cattle operation down here. Not even close, no.”

He says mentorships and partnerships have helped him expand his operation, but, “I go to buy cattle a few days a week and I’m the youngest one in the ring buying. It gives me a pretty good indication that the people trying to start up aren’t out there. It’s almost impossible.”

On the latest episode of Brownfield’s Next Gen Podcast, Walter says the country’s requirement to track animal movements and health records is over-the-top and burdensome. “The records that you have to keep – medications, holding numbers, who you’re supplying and who you’re buying form ect. – it’s an absolute nightmare.”

And, he says. It costs a lot of time and money and it’s the biggest problem we face in the U.K.”

Walter raises beef and dairy cattle in Cornwall in the southern region of the U.K.