Agriculture & Forestry

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Kincardine Estate is managed with a long-term view of the landscape and its future. Caring for land over generations requires a balance between productivity, biodiversity and environmental responsibility.

Forestry

Woodland plays a vital role in the character and ecology of the estate. Historically much of the forestry operated on a traditional clear-fell model. As we take the estate forward, we are gradually transitioning towards continuous cover forestry, allowing the woodland to regenerate more naturally.

Some areas are being replanted following earlier harvesting, while others are being allowed to regenerate naturally. This approach encourages a greater diversity of native species and creates woodland that is more resilient to climate change. It also supports a wider variety of plant life, insects, birds and mammals across the estate.

Farming

The farming on the estate has also evolved in recent years. After bringing the land back in-hand, we employed our own farmer and began the transition from conventional farming towards organic regenerative practices.

This approach focuses on improving soil health, increasing biodiversity and working with the natural cycles of the land. Many miles of fencing have been upgraded to support improved grazing management, while the estate herd of Longhorn cattle and flock of easy-care sheep continue to grow. We also rear and fatten organic store cattle.

Alongside agricultural production, the estate now monitors wildlife populations, including birds, small mammals and insects, on an annual basis in order to measure improvements in biodiversity over time.