From the archive: The knackerman: the toughest job in British farming
Feb 12, 2025
auto_awesome
Explore the shadowy yet vital role of knackermen in British farming, who handle the grim task of disposing of deceased livestock. Personal anecdotes reveal the emotional toll and dark humor woven into their work. Discover the challenges they've faced, particularly during the 2001 foot-and-mouth crisis, and observe the evolving landscape of agriculture. The discussion highlights the ethical dilemmas and psychological impacts on those who navigate the harsh realities of livestock management in an ever-changing world.
33:22
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
auto_awesome
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
Knackermen play a crucial yet emotionally challenging role in farming by managing the disposal of dead animals while ensuring biosecurity compliance.
The evolving perception of agriculture, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlights the importance of recognizing the contributions of farmers and knackermen to food security.
Deep dives
The Role of Knackermen in Agriculture
Knackermen, or those involved in fallen stock collection, play a vital yet often overlooked role in the agricultural sector. They are responsible for the collection and disposal of animals that have died on farms due to various reasons such as disease, surplus, or old age. This job is not only physically demanding but also emotionally taxing, involving the responsibility of making swift decisions regarding sick or injured animals. For instance, Ian Carswell, a local knacker man, balances the challenges of logistics while dealing with the realities of agricultural life and death.
Modernization and Regulation of the Profession
The profession of knackering has undergone significant modernization and regulation over the past decades, particularly following the BSE crisis in the 1990s. Knackermen now adhere to strict biosecurity measures, requiring licensing and certifications to safely carry out their tasks. Despite advancements, the emotional aspects of the job remain unchanged, as many farmers feel an intrinsic sadness when animals must be disposed of. Carswell's daily work includes navigating the updated protocols while still offering care in a profession that intersects the practical demands of farming with humane considerations.
The Impact of Seasonal Changes on Animal Mortality
The cyclical nature of farming leads to increased animal mortality rates during specific seasons, which knackermen must be prepared to handle. For example, the warmer, wetter conditions can exacerbate the health of livestock, leading to significant losses, particularly among vulnerable species such as lambs. Farmers often struggle with the emotional fallout of loss, as highlighted by Carswell's encounters where financial pressures force them to make difficult decisions about their livestock. This persistent cycle reinforces the importance of the knackermen's role in managing animal welfare amidst unpredictable agricultural challenges.
The Changing Landscape of Farming and Consumer Perceptions
The relationship between farming and public perception is evolving, especially in light of recent global challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Farmers found themselves more central to local economies as communities recognized their role in food production and security during lockdowns. This shift has begun to alter the narrative surrounding agriculture, previously seen as a profession without much visibility or respect. As consumer interest in local produce grows, there is potential for greater appreciation of the complexities involved in farming, including the roles of knackermen who help maintain this vital industry.
We are raiding the Guardian Long Read archives to bring you some classic pieces from years past, with new introductions from the authors. This week, from 2021: Between accidents, disease and bad weather, farm animals are prey to so many disasters that dedicated professionals are called out to dispose of the casualties. It’s a grim task, and one that’s only getting more difficult. By Bella Bathurst. Read by Andrew McGregor. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/longreadpod
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode