#2 The Buffalo Farmer
To celebrate our 25th anniversary we will be bringing you 25 Faces Behind the Food. Meet Dagan James, the owner of Broughton Buffalo near Stockbridge.
The idea for buffalo farming came from a magazine. At the time Dagan and his wife were living in France following their creative passions of painting and writing. The idea of rearing buffalo on the family’s farm appealed over traditional farming methods where the land can become over-worked.
They returned the UK and took steps to make the dream become a reality. After many years of learning on the job they now have a well-established herd of 250 water buffalo on their 500 acre grassland farm. The herd have one of the best views in Hampshire across the rolling chalk lands.
Over the years Dagan has spent hours reading and researching different farming techniques. He is passionate about natural farming methods which will create the finest quality soil which will in turn provide nutrients to the buffalo. There are no artificial fertilisers, insecticides or weed killers to be found on the farm.
The health benefits of buffalo meat are well-documented. It is naturally high in protein, iron and minerals, low in fat and cholesterol. And being grass-fed means it is a wonderful source of omega3 fatty acids.
Visit the on-site farm shop Thursdays and Fridays, 9am-5pm and Saturdays 10am-1pm where buffalo meat, lamb, pork and chicken are available to buy.
There is a chance to tour the farm this summer as part of the Hampshire Food Festival. Saturday 9th July, walks at 3pm, 4pm and 5pm with a BBQ. Find out more.