EXPERT VIEW Preparation is key for lambing success this season, says Phil Brookes of Volac Planning for the new lambing season should begin early – even if you normally lamb your flock in late spring. But whenever you start lambing, a practical seven-point plan will set your enterprise up... Read more
Livestock producers are urged to remain vigilant following the discovery of bluetongue in cattle on a Norfolk farm last month. A 10km temporary control zone was declared around the premises near Cantley, Broadland. Two infected animals were culled and livestock movement restrictions imposed to minimise the risk of onward... Read more
The Berry family scooped the interbreed pig championship once again with the Stocksbridge herd at last month’s English Winter Fair. Having won last year with a purebred Pietrain, this year they took the honours with a ¾ Pietrain x Large White, which was also crowned in the interbreed pairs... Read more
Pig industry stalwart Hugh Crabtree has won the 2023 David Black Award for his contribution to the sector over 40 years. Mr Crabtree has dedicated his career to improving the welfare and economic production of the industry. He co-founded Farmex – a market leader in ventilation systems for pig... Read more
Pig levy hike ‘vital’ for producers
Livestock 29/11/2023
The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board has defended proposals for a 20% hike in the pork levy – arguing that it is vital to deliver value for money to producers. Announced in October, the planned increase would be the first for more than 20 years. It follows a challenging... Read more
Farm leaders have called for a poultry meat supply chain inquiry after Defra announced an review aimed at ensuring a fairer market for the egg sector. The NFU said a Defra investigation should also be launched into the broiler sector because poultry producers face similar challenges to egg producers... Read more
Pig and poultry producers are at the forefront of efforts to reduce antibiotics in UK livestock production, confirm the latest figures. UK livestock sectors continue to make positive progress towards antibiotic use targets for the years 2021-2024 – with some sectors reaching goals early, according to the RUMA Targets... Read more
High scanning percentages are prompting reminders for sheep producers to adjust ewe management this winter. Many ewes are carrying twins or triplets – with high percentages a welcome change from last year. But the grass quality is declining so other methods will be needed to maintain ewe body condition... Read more
Farmers forced to open maize silage clamps earlier than expected this year are being warned to keep a close eye on livestock. A challenging season for grass growth has seen more farmers than usual feeding maize silage straight after harvest due to tight forage stocks. But doing so can... Read more
Good harvest yields reported for maize
Livestock 07/11/2023
Early indications suggest a bumper harvest for maize production this year with high yields of good quality material that should clamp and feed well. Fears that the relatively cold, wet spring and challenging drilling conditions could result in later maturing crops for many growers have been largely abated, says... Read more
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