Market faces period of change Changes in government policy are likely to impact the tenanted farm sector, with uncertainty typically leading to shorter-term lets, says a study. The farm let sector remained stable in 2023, despite fears that owners would take land back in-hand for environmental uses, according to... Read more
• Cases rise after wet autumn • Keep on top of testing regime • Take action where necessary More cases of liver fluke are being reported following the wet autumn – with farmers reminded to keep a close eye on livestock. The number of positive liver fluke cases is... Read more
Grazing bales saves time and money Bale grazing suckler beef cattle in winter can produce a financial benefit of £1.58 per head per day – and generate other benefits too, says a report. The Economics of Bale Grazing study is part of a wider Pasture for Life and Innovative... Read more
How to avoid running on empty
Livestock 07/02/2025
It is important to investigate ewes empty at scanning time, says Nerys Wright. I remember seeing a report, written in 1983, which said pregnancy scanning at 50p/ewe was unlikely to be economically viable for most commercial sheep flocks. Fast forward to 2024 and 50p/ewe would be tremendously good value.... Read more
Pork exports to China have received a boost after a big push by producers, government officials and the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board. Two more sites have received export approval after a delegation from the China Meat Association visited the UK... Read more
• Helps optimise egg production • Data on flock health and welfare • Good for birds and farm income Acoustic sensors could help boost the health and welfare of laying hens – saving money and optimising egg production. The project uses state-of-the-art sensors to monitor birds through novel sound... Read more
Slurry spreading specialist Samson has introduced two new disc incorporators to get the best from organic fertilisers. The CDf and CDx incorporators are designed to be used on different soil types – including light sand and heavy clay, or indeed stubble. Both ensure nutrients are placed where they are... Read more
Water company Severn Trent is reminding farmers to stay ahead of wet winter weather with a responsible approach to slurry management. Inconsistent “Even if you’re not in a designated nitrate vulnerable zone, spreading slurry on waterlogged, flooded or frozen ground brings a high risk of environmental damage,” explains Severn... Read more
• Rules for water under scrutiny • Manure ‘mustn’t be excessive’ • Deadline for government reply Autumn manure spreading could be under threat following an investigation into pollution guidance by the Office for Environmental Protection (OEP). The government’s Farming Rules for Water (FRfW) aim to reduce and prevent water... Read more
• Input-output ratio is key • Invest on merit, not habit • Know your crops and soils Growers looking to optimise margins from cereals this season should invest in crops where the money will have most impact, say experts. Lessons learned from a challenging harvest 2024 suggest that farms... Read more