NUE-Leg

Maesderwen

Maesderwen is a 1,177-acre mixed farm spanning four units in the heart of mid-Wales, managed by Gary Orrells and his family. The enterprise combines sheep, beef, and arable production, with a strong focus on sustainable practices and long-term resilience.

Farm Facts

  • Location: Maesderwen
  • 1,177 acres
  • Mixed farm: Sheep, beef and arable
  • Sheep: 1,200 ewes:
    • 500 improved Welsh ewes bred to produce replacements.
    • 700 Aberfield ewes crossed with Abervale rams.
  • Beef cattle: 140 cows, primarily Angus cross and Belgian Blue cross. Progeny are reared to 12 months and sold as store cattle.
  • Arable: 140 acres in rotation, supporting a diverse cropping system including:
    • Winter wheat
    • Winter oats
    • Spring barley
    • Maize
    • Stubble turnips

NUE-Leg Goals

  • Increasing protein content in grazing and silage.
  • Adapting to climate change by using a variety of land types to extend the grazing season across the farm.