Island Life Magazine Ltd October/November 2008 | Page 68

life COUNTRYSIDE, WILDLIFE & FARMING

Changing face
of the
countryside
by Tony Ridd

As one of the largest
landowners on the island,
Michael Poland is also a major
contributor to the increase
in wildlife, improved island
aesthetics and more commonly
known for his introduction of
‘Champion’ Scottish Highland
Cattle to our downlands.

Tony Ridd visited Michael on
his farm at Wroxall, to discover
how these fascinating and
relatively docile cows are
helping achieve a balanced
environment on Michael’s estate
across the Isle of Wight. And,
at the same time, marvel at the
views that can be experienced
whilst walking across his farm.
By the time this goes to press
Michael and the Isle of Wight,
will know the results of the
first ‘RSPB Nature of Farming
Awards’. For someone who has
been involved in the islands
countryside for many years, and
whenever I see him, at various

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meetings he is always thanking
someone. This is probably the
biggest thank you/recognition
that he could receive.
Michael’s first land acquisition
on the island, was in the early
1980’s, he now owns over
2200 acres of land across the
island. From open downland,
with fantastic views, to bluebell
woodlands and all types of
species rich grassland. There
are over 15 miles of public
rights of way across his land
that he actively encourages
people to use, although
‘dogs on leads’ are a must,
for the sake of wildlife.

June Elford

Looking after the countryside
is all about ‘good housekeeping’, and Michael
explained to me that one of
his first tasks was to decide
on an ‘estate plan’. Efficient
farming, improving the quality
of the land for wildlife (not
using fertilisers) and increasing
the landscape value, were
all major parts of the plan.
One of the first tasks involved
returning scrubby areas back
to manageable land. He was
introduced to Highland Cattle,
and explains, ‘they love being
in open ground and are happy
to roam over large areas.’

Buying six at first he soon
added to his herd when they
proved their worth. They are
surprisingly small when you
first come across them, being
lighter, they don’t poach the
ground like other beef cattle.
He is the proud breeder of two
Champion bulls at Oban, and
tells me there have only ever
been three Oban Champion
bulls bred outside of Scotland.
He has also bred three other
breed Champions at shows
in the south. Michael attends
the sales when looking to
bring new blood lines to his
herd taking expert advice

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