SUREPASTOR Pilot Farm: Azienda Agricola Coveri S.S.S.A. – A Commitment to Sustainable and High-Quality Dairy Farming
8 Apr 2025
Torrita di Siena, Tuscany – April 2025
Azienda Agricola Coveri S.S.S.A., a distinguished SUREPASTOR pilot farm located in the picturesque Caselle region of Torrita di Siena, Tuscany, has been a pillar of sustainable and family-run agriculture since 2005. Led by the siblings Stefano and Carla Coveri, the farm upholds a rich tradition of cereal and livestock farming, blending innovative eco-approaches with generations of agricultural knowledge.
A Focus on Sustainability and Quality
The farm spans an impressive 34 hectares, featuring both pasturelands and fields dedicated to the production of forages and cereals such as durum wheat and monococcum spelt, which are used in the production of high-quality pasta. The Coveri family’s commitment to organic farming is evident, as the farm has held organic certification since 2008, ensuring environmentally-friendly practices that prioritise sustainability and biodiversity.
Azienda Agricola Coveri is home to around 300 dairy sheep (including Massese and Comisana breeds, along with crosses with French breeds), as well as 30 Saanen goats. The animals are grazed across 20 hectares of pasture, which not only benefits animal welfare but also supports the farm’s sustainable practices. The sheep and goats are identified using RFID technology, which helps monitor their health and productivity.
On-Site Milk Transformation and Product Innovation
One of the most notable aspects of Azienda Agricola Coveri’s operation is its on-site milk transformation process. All milk produced on the farm is processed into a variety of traditional dairy products, including:
- Sheep Ricotta and Cheeses (both raw and pasteurized, available in fresh, semi-aged, and aged varieties)
- Goat Ricotta and Cheeses (raw, fresh, and semi-aged)
The transformation process ensures that the highest standards of quality are maintained while also promoting sustainability by reducing the need for external processing.
Commitment to Local Economy and Direct Sales
The farm offers its products directly to consumers through its on-site shop, as well as home delivery and shipping services, allowing a broader market to access their locally-produced dairy products. This direct-to-consumer model helps sustain the local economy and encourages stronger connections between farmers and their communities.
A Day on the Farm: Sustainable Practices in Action
A typical day at Azienda Agricola Coveri begins with the morning and afternoon milking sessions. Using a 10-post milking machine, the farm collects milk in a single tank, which is then transformed into the farm’s popular dairy products. The farm also focuses on cultivating a variety of plants for grazing, including clover, ryegrass, sainfoin, and alfalfa, ensuring that the animals are nourished by diverse and natural forage.
Through SUREPASTOR, the farm is further exploring eco-innovative practices and contributing to the ongoing research into sustainable sheep farming, which is the focus of the EU-funded project.
A Model for the Future
The Coveri family’s long-standing dedication to quality, sustainability, and innovation serves as an inspiring example for future generations of farmers. By combining traditional farming knowledge with modern sustainable practices, they are not only safeguarding the future of their farm but also contributing to a more sustainable and eco-conscious agricultural sector.
As part of the SUREPASTOR project, Azienda Agricola Coveri is at the forefront of an exciting movement toward eco-innovative farming methods. Their commitment to sustainable agriculture and high-quality, locally-produced products continues to make a significant impact on the Tuscany region and beyond.
For those looking to experience the taste of sustainable farming, Azienda Agricola Coveri’s products can be purchased directly at the farm or through their delivery service.
Visit here for more information on the farm
