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
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
I have become increasingly interested in why people do – or don’t do – certain things, writes Nerys Wright. Why, for example, do some people embrace change while others struggle? I recently read a book called ‘Switch – How to Change Things When Change is Hard.’ it was a... Read more
Dairy farmers planning slurry applications immediately after grassland cuts should consider whether it provides all the grass nutrients required. More farmers are making better use of slurry through accurate application and detailed analysis to measure its nutrient content. Refining this approach using detailed analysis, can increase slurry value still... Read more
Good seedbeds remain important as ever Growers trying multi-species leys for the first time this spring are advised to use the most appropriate establishment method. Agronomists report a significant uptake in multi-species leys driven by the Sustainable Farming Incentive. But inexperienced growers could struggle – and see establishment backfire,... Read more
Ignorant owners stubbornly refuse to control pets Almost nine out of 10 sheep flocks have been subjected to a dog attack within the last 12 months, suggests a survey. An ongoing failure of UK dog owners to recognise the threat their pet animals pose to farm livestock continues to... Read more
Essex turkey producer Paul Kelly is inviting people in the sector to join the Worshipful Company of Poulters – and support its charitable work. Daring back to 1368, the poulters livery company was founded to regulate London’s poultry, swans, pigeons, rabbits and small game. Today, it operates as a... Read more
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