Sheep farmers are losing 10-25% of early lambs this season to Schmallenberg disease, suggest initial reports. Scanners are reporting dead lambs inside ewes – adding to challenges which already include bluetongue virus, winter storms and flooding due to extreme weather, says the National Sheep Association. NSA chief executive Phil... Read more

Livestock producers are urged to remain vigilant for bluetongue with more than 50 cases of the virus now confirmed in southern and eastern England. Defra said there was still no evidence that bluetongue was circulating in midges in Great Britain. But surveillance remains ongoing with the number of cases... Read more

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

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

Farmers are being advised to get ewes in the correct condition before tupping to avoid a second year of poor scanning rates. Grass growth rates stunted by lack of rain during May and June have largely returned to normal following the warm, wet summer. But a close eye still... Read more

Dairy farmers are being urged to start planning now for winter feeding to ensure cows receive consistent rations and achieve optimum milk yields. With varying silage quality experienced this year, nutrition experts say it is important for dairy farmers to undertake analysis of their forages to gain an accurate... Read more

Livestock producers are being advised to increase hygiene levels in cattle enclosures and calving equipment to prevent unnecessary calf losses this winter. Winter calving can present farmers with a host of environmental challenges, with colder temperatures threatening the survival of weaker animals, the increased risk of disease, and reduced... Read more

A government fund for new or refurbished calf housing has opened for applications from beef and dairy producers. The Calf Housing for Health and Welfare fund offers grants from £15,000 to £500,000. It covers up to 40% of the cost of calf housing and buildings which improve health and welfare... Read more