The FAI was founded in 1998 & gained an operational footing in October 2001
We are set-up in recognition of the growing realisation that commercially robust farming systems that significantly raise animal welfare standards can and do exist. The farming policy of FAI is to operate a multi-enterprise livestock farm suitable for our research and development work. The farm extends over an area in excess of 1000 acres (420 ha) and has the following key areas:
Extensive Range of Livestock Housing
Including housing that currently accommodates a 250 pig unit, winter accomadation for the suckler herd, finishing areas for dairy beef cattle, and winter housing for the 1000 breeding ewes. Free range, mobile poultry housing is provided for both chicken and for egg production.
Area of Flood Plain
The flood plain has been returned to native grassland under the Environmentally
Sensitive Area Scheme and have since been converted to organic status. This area is of considerable ecological
interest and has facilitated research work into farmings impact on biodiversity both in terms of plants, insects birds and invertebrates.
The “Park”
An area that has been returned to permanent pasture and supports the suckler herd and the extension of the beef finishing operation to utilise the home produced beef cattle. The suckler herd now numbers 120 breeding cows.
Extensive Range of Livestock Housing
Area of Flood Plain
The “Park”