Livestock Farmer Sharon Hammond Celebrates 90 Years and Counting
Sharon Hammond, a livestock farmer from Powys, has been involved in farming for five decades. In honor of Farmers Weekly’s 90th anniversary, she reflects on her journey through the years in the farming industry.
Growing up near Llandrindod in Mid Wales, Sharon didn’t come from a farming background, but her grandparents shared tales of farming life. Her early memories include watching a neighbor loading hay onto a trailer with a pitchfork.
Joining the Young Farmers Club (YFC) as a young adult proved to be a pivotal moment for Sharon. It was where she met her husband and eventually transitioned into full-time farming. Despite initial doubts from others about her ability to cope with farming life, Sharon’s in-laws welcomed her with open arms and provided the necessary support and guidance for her to learn the ropes.
Over the years, Sharon took on various farming tasks, from mowing to harvesting, under the guidance of her late husband and father-in-law. She emphasizes the sense of community within the farming world, where people support each other and work together towards a common goal.
Looking ahead to succession, Sharon acknowledges the potential role her grandsons may play in the future of the farm. Currently, her two sons are running the farm following their father’s illness, implementing changes such as transitioning to Romneys sheep and introducing alternative energy sources like biomass boilers and solar panels.
Addressing public perceptions of farming, Sharon highlights the challenges faced by farmers in recent years, including rising costs, paperwork, and inspections. She stresses the importance of transparency and invites people to visit the farm to learn about the realities of food production. Sharon emphasizes the prioritization of livestock welfare, sharing stories of dedication to ensuring the well-being of animals, even in challenging conditions.
In conclusion, Sharon’s journey through five decades of farming exemplifies resilience, adaptability, and a deep-rooted commitment to the agricultural industry. As she navigates the ever-evolving landscape of farming, Sharon continues to uphold the values and traditions passed down through generations.
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Maria Sanchez completed her Bachelor’s degree in Plant Sciences from the University of California, Davis, in the USA. Her studies focused on plant genetics and biotechnology, with an emphasis on developing disease-resistant crop varieties. Maria has contributed to several research projects aimed at improving crop resilience to climate change and is now pursuing her Master’s degree in Plant Breeding.