Agister

An agister is a person, usually a landowner or manager, who is responsible for grazing animals, typically livestock, on their own land or on leased land for a fee. This practice, known as agistment, involves providing pasture, care, and often shelter for the animals, usually for a set period. The agister benefits from the income generated, while the animal owners benefit from the provision of grazing and care, alleviating the need for them to provide such resources. The agreement can vary depending on the region and type of animals, but often stipulates the responsibilities of the agister regarding animal health, welfare, and land management.

Agister meaning with examples

• The farmer acted as an agister for several sheep farmers in the region. He provided prime grazing land during the summer months. He ensured the sheep had ample water and shelter. He took care of them to ensure their wellbeing. He maintained good relationships with the sheep owners, and handled any problems promptly.
• The wealthy estate hired an agister to manage its extensive pastures and accommodate visiting horses. They were very careful in finding an agister who would take special care of the valuable horses. The agister provided all feed, and maintained the horses' health and welfare, and ensured the property was well looked after.
• The local government utilized an agister for its community-owned land, allowing cattle owners to graze their herds during the winter. They charged the cattle owners an agreed fee for this, the money being spent on community projects. The agister had to ensure that the cattle did not overgraze the land, and that local wildlife would not be adversely affected.
• After a particularly dry season, the agister offered grazing services at reduced rates to help struggling farmers. This agister knew his role in helping keep a struggling farmer's business afloat. The local authorities agreed that they would also provide support for the reduced costs. The agister knew his work would benefit the whole community.
• Due to the high quality of their land and the excellent care provided, the agister had a long waiting list of farmers wanting to use their services. The agister, along with the help of her family, provided excellent customer service. Animals in their care thrived, leading to more demand. The agister worked year round and was highly respected.