SO MUCH TO SEE AND DO IN THE COUNTRY LIFE & WOODLAND AREA, DEVON COUNTY SHOW 2022

The Country Life and Woodland Section at Devon County Show, curated by Andy Gray, is always a huge favourite amongst Show-goers. 

Andy brings many years of expertise to this part of the show.  He is a 13th generation Devon farmer and has a clear perspective on changing practices in farming and its impact on the environment, and in particular the declining wildlife population. 

Andy is currently participating in the first Silvopasture trial in the UK, the practice of integrating trees, forage, and the grazing of domesticated animals in a mutually beneficial way and licencing, in collaboration with Fir Farm, the first mobile red meat slaughterhouse in the UK. He runs a regenerative, nature plus, meat box scheme www.farmwilder.co.uk, recognising the added value of meat from Devon farms that boast exceptional wildlife.

Earlier this year, Andy was appointed Chair of Council of the Devon County Agricultural Association (DCAA) an organisation that has played a leading role in the development of agriculture and the rural economy in Devon since its formation in 1872.  The Devon County Show is the DCAA’s flagship event. 

Aside from his role at Devon County Show, Andy is Chair of the River Taw Fisheries and Conservation Association, trustee of the Westcountry Rivers Trust and involved in alleviating food poverty.

 Andy’s commitment to regenerative farming practice is very much reflected in the attractions and exhibits in the County Life and Woodland Section at Devon County Show. 

 The Woodland Trust and the Forestry Commission will be represented along with Plymouth University who have been given a platform to demonstrate their prototype agricultural robot which features interchangeable arms including a spraying device which employs AI cameras to scan for weeds and spray them specifically, rather than spraying a whole field.

 The Country Life & Woodland section, also has its very own arena, dedicated to the celebration of countryside pursuits.  Amongst a number of attractions, spectators will be treated to displays to include heavy horses, sheep herding, fly ball and the Misselchalke Gun Dogs.