New guidelines aim to reduce disease risks to sheep at shearing as the sector strives to maintain flock health this season. As shearing gets into full swing, the National Sheep Association (NSA) and other industry bodies are reminding farmers that good biosecurity hinges on effective communication between different parties.... Read more
• More growers rethinking rotation • How change rebuilds soil health • Range of opportunities available Soil health and economic pressures will be discussed at a dedicated Regenerative Agriculture conference at this month’s Cereals event. Hosted by BASE UK and sponsored by sponsored by Tees Law, the conference will... Read more
EXPERT VIEW Working together is a sensible strategy in challenging times, says Brian Richardson Farming has faced more than its fair share of challenges in recent times. Changes to inheritance tax and to support arrangements are just two major issues to mention. But individual farms will have seen many... Read more
• Latest launch of FETF grants • Six-week application window • Goal to boost farming profits A multi-million-pound fund opens for applications this month to boost farm profitability, productivity and food security. The £46.7 million Farming Equipment and Technology Fund (FETF) offers three types of grant – each worth... Read more
An innovative project aimed at boosting efficiency and productivity in the livestock industry through enhanced water technology is gaining momentum. British agri-tech firm Oxcel has reported successful outcomes from Innovate UK-funded trials, confirming that its nano-oxygen-enhanced water technology delivers significant benefits for both farmers and the environment. The trials... Read more
Like it or loathe it, electronic identification in the sheep sector has made monitoring lamb growth rates easier than ever, writes Nerys Wright. Although official aggregated data is unavailable – and much of the research is diet-specific – knowing the daily liveweight gain (DLWG) of your lambs is invaluable... Read more
Significant losses on many farms Four in five UK dairy herds have experienced cryptosporidiosis – with significant financial and welfare implications, say researchers. Some 84% of farmers surveyed by Harper Adams University said they had dealt with outbreaks of the disease, which causes severe watery diarrhoea. Nearly 60% rating... Read more
Four-year trial sees good results Beef cattle reared on a grass-rich regenerative farming system can store more carbon than they emit – helping to mitigate climate change, suggests a study. Results from the McDonald’s-sponsored project at FAI Farms could see farmers and food companies to back up their net zero balance with... Read more
• Nutrient uptake in dry conditions • Alternative to artificial fertilisers • Helps crops reach yield potential More growers are treating beet crops with nitrogen fixing bacteria biofertilisers to ensure plants have essential nutrients available during key growth stages in dry weather. Early season applications of Vixeran lock nitrogen... Read more
Sugar beet growers looking to rationalise herbicide use should consider the pros and cons of alternatives – which may not suit all situations and seasons. British Sugar’s in-house weed specialist and technical support manager Pam Chambers has been testing different weed control strategies at a site in Yaxley, Suffolk,... Read more