Rob Havard

Phepson Angus. Forage bulls. All grass no fuss. maximise your profit from grass. productive ecological farming.

Rob Havard is a multi-faceted professional who combines expertise in ecology, farming, and holistic management. He is a freelance ecologist and the Managing Director at Rob Havard Associates.2

Professional Background

Rob is a sixth-generation farmer and a professional ecologist.4 He works as an ecology and wildlife consultant, ensuring that conservation efforts align with client needs in both the development and agricultural industries.2 Additionally, he serves as a conservation grazing lead advisor for Natural England.3

Farming Experience

Rob, along with his partner Lizzie, manages farms in Worcestershire and Shropshire. They oversee 150 pedigree cows on 1,500 acres of land, which includes their home farms, tenancies, and a contract farming agreement with Croome Court.1 Their farming approach is deeply rooted in holistic management principles, which Rob has been using to inform his farming practices since completing Kirk Gadzia's training.4

Achievements and Recognition

In 2023, Rob was awarded the RASE Excellence in Practical Farming Award. This recognition was for his application of ecological training to farming decisions and his achievements in developing genetics suited for low-input grazing systems.1

Holistic Management Approach

Rob discovered holistic management in 2012 and has since incorporated it into all aspects of his farming decisions. This approach integrates environmental, financial, and social elements, allowing for sustainable business growth.1 He uses this framework to guide grazing management, environmental monitoring, and genetic development in his cattle breeding program.

Genetic Development

From 2013 to 2018, Rob focused on developing cattle genetics specifically tailored for low-input, regenerative systems. He utilized old native Angus genetics to create animals that thrive in these environments, addressing a crucial need in the regenerative farming movement.1

Rob Havard's work demonstrates a successful integration of ecological principles with practical farming, showcasing how holistic management can lead to both environmental and economic sustainability in agriculture.