[WelshMark]

We're new to this and looking for a way to keep 6 (ish) acres of moderate quality, sloping grassland well grazed.  We have a few acres in a sheltered little valley a few hundred feet above sea level in Wales. The land already has standard stock fencing and water. We don't expect to make money but low cost is desirable.  Happy to eat the stock at some stage but not keen on shearing or milking. What would be best? Hair sheep (not wool)? Geese? Goats? Llamas? Dinosaurs?  But seriously, any 'easy care' practical ideas most welcome. Thanks.

[lachlanandmarcus]

I would go for the hair sheep, altho they need checking on, and hay in the winter, they wouldnt need shutting up at night like the geese. If you could get there to shut up and let out then the geese would be a good addition, just a few.

[Frieslandfilly]

Geese do a great job of keeping grass down, added bonus is christmas dinner!

[Rosemary]

Geese do a great job of keeping grass down, added bonus is christmas dinner!

How many geese would you need to manage 6 acres?

What are hair sheep? Do they get made into shirts? 

[Fleecewife]

Geese do a great job of keeping grass down, added bonus is christmas dinner!

How many geese would you need to manage 6 acres?

What are hair sheep? Do they get made into shirts? 

 

Seing as it's Wales I think dragons would be best - sorry    Anyway they might not take kindly to you eating them.

Being serious, remember that the grass will not feed stock all year round, so you will have to provide winter feeding whatever stock you put on, unless you buy them in the spring and slaughter before winter.

[Hermit]

If you dont want any hassle why not rent it out to a sheep farmer in return for a carcass or whatever.

[BrookfieldFarm]

Go for llamas! They just need a shelter, occasional vaccination and worming, and some good grazing!