SUMMER UPDATE 2019 Are you Brexit ready? Now is the time to prepare. Things are changing. If you’re a farmer, fisher or food and drink business, gov.wales/preparingwales is a single source of information on actions for your business.

Farming Connect 08456 000 813

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Rural Payment Wales 03000 625 004 Customer Contact Centre KEY DATES 2019

AUGUST NOVEMBER 8 August 8 November Sustainable Management Scheme Glastir Woodland Creation EOI closes (SMS) EOI closes FARMING CONNECT – SEPTEMBER SUSTAINABLE FARMING 2 September ROADSHOWS Sustainable Production Grant 3 September (SPG) EOI opens Pontypridd 26 September 4 September Farm Business Grant (FBG) round Llandrindod Wells 6 closing date for claims 5 September 26 September Carmarthen Farming Connect innovation and diversification event 10 September Abergele 30 September Glastir Woodland Creation 11 September EOI (EOI) opens Aberaeron 12 September Cerrigydrudion OCTOBER For further information 11 October on these events go to Sustainable Production Grant www.gov.wales/farmingconnect Expression of Interest window closes 15 October Attending a Sustainable Farming Food and Drink consultation closes Roadshow event is the first step in the Sustainable Production Grant (SPG) 30 October application process Sustainable Farming and our Land consultation closes Reminder – Capital Works for Glastir Capital Works need to be completed by 31 December 2019, regardless of the weather. Sustainable farming Consultation and our land Food and drink

The Welsh Government has recently published the consultation Sustainable Farming and our Land. This is the next step after last year’s Brexit and our

Land in which the Welsh Government proposed two Sustainable Farming and our Land schemes to replace the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) Responses by 30 October 2019 and Glastir after Brexit – the Economic Resilience and Public Goods Schemes. On 4 June Lesley Griffiths, Minister for Environment, Energy and Rural Affairs confirmed that as a result of last year’s consultation, the Welsh Government now proposes a single integrated sustainable farming scheme. This better reflects that the production of high quality food can take place alongside the improved production of environmental outcomes – that the right action done in the right place can deliver multiple outcomes. Sustainable Farming and our Land explores the opportunities for a sustainable farming scheme across Wales. For example, opportunity involves a widespread approach to soil nutrient management. Soil testing, followed by targeted use of fertilisers, and pH monitoring can have considerable benefits for soil health and water quality whilst optimising grass yields and reducing costs. With BPS due to come to an end, farmers can instead be paid for producing sustainable farming outcomes such as improved water quality and habitat quality as a result of actions such as nutrient management and grazing management. Capital investment may also be available for business improvement. A co-design process involving farmers and other stakeholders will commence in the autumn to explore further aspects of future scheme design. Details of the co-design process will be published later in the summer. Staff will be available at the Welsh Government Pavilion to discuss the consultation throughout the .

Sustainable Farming and our Land will run until 30 October. More details can be found at gov.wales/consultations Food and Drink Consultation: Our ambition to further develop Wales’ food and drink sector. The Welsh Government and the Food and Drink Wales Industry Board are jointly producing a new and ambitious strategic plan to deliver support to the industry for when ‘Towards Sustainable Growth: Food and Drink Action Plan ends in 2020. The consultation paper: Our ambition to further develop Wales’ food and drink sector sets out our vision to create a strong and vibrant Welsh food and drink sector with a global reputation for excellence, having one of the most environmentally and socially responsible supply chains in the world. Our proposed mission is: to develop a thriving food and drink industry through working collaboratively with the sector to achieve the following strategic aims: • To grow our businesses’ scale, value, and productivity, through targeted investment, support, innovation and co-operative activity throughout supply chains, and by creating strong and diverse routes to UK and export markets. • To benefit our people and society by providing attractive careers and fair work, committed to developing the skills of the workforce, using resources sustainably, and encouraging businesses to play a part in addressing public health and poverty. • To create and communicate a global reputation for Wales as a Food Nation by showcasing our sector through Taste Wales, developing and living our sustainable brand values, widely adopting high production and accreditation standards, and celebrating businesses’ successes.

How to get involved? The consultation will run for a period of 12 weeks and will close on the 15 October 2019. Stakeholder opinions will help us shape a finished strategic plan for 2020-2026 which we expect to publish in early 2020. We want to hear from as many stakeholders as possible and we urge you to get involved. Please complete the consultation response form seen at www.businesswales.gov.wales/foodanddrink and send it to [email protected] Glastir Advanced / Glastir Commons / Glastir Organic contract renewals Customers whose contracts expire 31 December 2019 are due to be offered a contract renewal to 2021 in the autumn this year. The contract will be offered via your RPW Online account, you must log in and either accept or decline this offer via your online account. Customers are encouraged to respond as soon as possible. Customers whose contracts expire 31 December 2020 are due to be offered a contract renewal to 2021 in the autumn next year.

Rural Payments Wales (RPW) Appointments RPW are introducing an appointment system for digital assistance and enquiry handling for anyone wishing to visit the Regional Offices.

Appointments can only be booked via the RPW Customer Contact Centre, who are also there to offer front line help and support with all enquiries.

Regional Office front desk staff will still accept correspondence and/or supporting documentation on a drop-in basis, but more detailed enquiries with staff can only be accommodated via the new appointment system.

Rural Payments Wales (RPW) Digital RPW letters and documents will only be issued electronically via the customer contact messages on RPW Online. Hard copy letters and forms may still be issued occasionally, but only in extraordinary circumstances or when hard copy signatures are required, such as a BACS form. Additionally, anyone wishing to receive a hard copy letter can request a copy from the RPW Customer Contact Centre. Customers can choose to be notified of all new letters/documents on RPW Online by email, SMS (text message) or both. Notification preferences can be updated anytime on the RPW Online account. RPW Online – email verification reminder An e-mail verification process was introduced in December 2018 as part of the Government Gateway strategy to improve digital security. Rural Payments Wales suspended the process for the 2019 Single Application Form (SAF), to avoid any possible confusion or delays during the application window. RPW have now re-activated the e-mail verification process which means RPW Online customers, who have not yet completed the process, will be asked to verify their email address, create a memorable word (used for account recovery) and keep or amend their existing login details when they next want to access their RPW online account. Further information on email verification through Government Gateway can be found at gov.wales/changes-accessing-your-rpw-online-account. EIA Regulations (Wales) Thinking about ploughing, re-seeding or new drainage? Does it need EIA screening? What is the purpose of EIA? To allow agricultural changes that do not seriously affect the environment, whilst providing protection for land with significant environmental, historic or cultural importance. EIA Agriculture Regulations (Wales) Does it apply to my land? Thinking about ploughing, re-seeding or new drainage? If you intend to carry out an agricultural improvement project Does it need EIA screening? on any semi-natural land, you will need to receive a screening decision from the Welsh Government (WG) before you proceed. • Semi-natural land is any area containing less than 25% of improved agricultural species (e.g. Perennial Ryegrass and/or White Clover). This can include a range of land, from lowland meadows to moor. • Examples of projects could be cultivation (e.g. ploughing, harrowing, rotovating), re-seeding, direct drilling, new drainage and clearing scrub. • Existing highly improved agricultural land (e.g. silage fields) will not need screening, if it contains more than 25% of Ryegrass and/or White Clover.

Breaching the Regulations is illegal and may lead to prosecution, a requirement to reinstate the land to its previous condition and/or a Cross Compliance penalty on your Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) or Rural Development Scheme payments.

What do I need to do? You will need to submit a Screening Application Form to your local WG Regional Office and await a response before proceeding. Application forms are available from your Regional Office or WG website. Responses can take up to 35 days so please plan ahead. There is no charge for the process of applying for screening and decisions are valid for 3 years. Where can I find out more? Get , we are here to help. If you want further information, you should initially contact the Rural Payments Wales (RPW) Customer Contact Centre, on: Tel: 0300 062 5004 E-mail: [email protected] Opening hours: Monday–Friday, 08:30–17:00 June Agricultural Survey – Reminder The June Agricultural Survey covers use of land, numbers of livestock and people working on farms in Wales. The survey produces estimates of these numbers for all farms in Wales (not just claimants) and these estimates are an important source of information which allows industry stakeholders to know what is happening in farming . The survey has been run for many years so it is also possible to compare what is happening today with what has happened in the past – both recently and more long-term. The results are used by both the Welsh Government and farming unions to help shape agricultural policies for the future of the industry. If you have received a form and have yet to return it then you may have received a reminder card through the post. If you have lost or mislaid your form then you can order a replacement using the automated messaging service on 03000 255281. Just leave your holding number and a new form will be sent to you in the next few days. If you have not received a form then it may be that you have not been included in the sample for this year’s survey. Please wait to see if you receive a reminder card. If you do then the original form may have got lost in transit. In this case please contact the number above and a replacement form can be sent out to you. If you require any help in completing the form then you can call the survey helpline on 03000 252244. Alternatively you can e-mail [email protected]. Manage My CPH – Closure of Sole Occupancy Authorities/ Interim Land Association Managements Background In February 2018, the Welsh Government CPH project launched and introduced Manage My CPH. This online mapping system allows livestock keepers to review the land they have within their CPH and make amendments at any time to their permanent and temporary land (TLAs. /tCPHs). Our aim is to guarantee consistency across all species. By introducing the 10-mile radius rule for movement reporting, online mapping of land for livestock use and the closure of Tracing System links, SOAs and ILAM we can improve the ability to respond quickly and effectively in a disease outbreak. This rule allows keepers, which have registered their land, to merge all their CPH numbers into one CPH provided they are located within a 10-mile radius. This removes the requirement for movement recording, six-day standstill and TB pre-movement testing All customers with CTS links, SOAs and ILAMs have been contacted to notify of their closure.

Further information and useful contacts Please visit our website for further information including a detailed guidance booklet and Q&A document www.gov.wales/cphproject If you have any queries relating to this please contact the Customer Contact Centre using your RPW Online account or on 0300 062 5004. The Farm Liaison Service can also offer assistance, please email [email protected] WALES FARM SAFETY PARTNERSHIP @farmsafetywales

R ALWAYS REMEMBER TO WEAR A HELMET R MAKE SURE ALL RIDERS HAVE BEEN TRAINED R CARRY OUT SAFETY CHECKS AND REGULAR MAINTENANCE R NEVER CARRY CHILDREN OR PASSENGERS

WWW.HSE.GOV.UK/AGRICULTURE TB Eradication Programme On 30 April, the Minister for Environment, Energy and Rural Affairs, made an Oral Statement on progress with the TB Eradication Programme, since it was refreshed in October 2017.

The Statement highlighted updates on a number of key areas of the Programme including: • In 2018, there were 746 new TB incidents in Wales, representing a 5% decrease compared to 2017. However, 11,233 cattle were slaughtered as a result of TB, representing a 12% increase on 2017 figures. This increase is largely due to the heightened sensitivity of testing and removal of more Inconclusive Reactors. • Evidence suggests a large proportion of TB breakdowns are primarily attributable to cattle movements. • Farmers’ prevention of TB breakdowns by sourcing stock more carefully and considering the TB test history of prospective purchases. One in three confirmed TB breakdowns in High TB Areas and 8 in 10 in the Low TB Area are primarily attributable to cattle movements. As such, farmers are encouraged to consider the TB test history of prospective purchases, to minimise the risk of bringing disease into their herd. • A review of the current compensation regime will take place with a view to driving good farming practice whilst discouraging bad practice. • Continuation of efforts to address a spike in new TB incidents in the Intermediate TB Area North (ITBAN). To support TB free herds in the area, free ‘Keep it Out’ visits are available through the Cymorth TB programme. • Implementation of bespoke Action Plans to tackle persistent TB herd breakdowns, where herds have been under TB restrictions for 18 months or more. By the end of December, 59 Action Plans had been implemented in persistent TB breakdowns and 21 with an Action Plan in place had restrictions lifted. Where evidence suggests badgers are contributing to the persistence of disease, test positive badgers have been removed. A report on last year’s field work is currently being finalised and will be available shortly. Preparatory work on the third year of operations is well underway. • As part of our long term strategy, we are supporting the creation of the Bovine TB Centre of Excellence in , led by esteemed Professor Glyn Hewinson. Close linkages between the Centre and our Programme are being developed.

Update on Cymorth TB Government funded Cymorth TB veterinary visits are still available to any herd in Wales which suffers a TB breakdown. To support farmers in the ITBAN, free ‘Keep it Out’ visits are available to the herds that test clear to a contiguous test in this area. These visits focus on the local disease picture, biosecurity, trading policy and include practical advice on preventing TB in their holdings.

Reminder on cross compliance Late TB tests reduce your Basic Payment Scheme and any area based Rural Development Scheme payments. Penalties apply to all late tests notified by a test notification letter from the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA). They apply whenever a test is 1 or more days overdue and increase as the test becomes more overdue. To avoid a penalty farmers must ensure all eligible animals are injected and read (TT2 date) before the last date of the testing window. For example, if the test must be completed before 6 April then the latest the test can be read is 5 April. Book your tests as early as possible within the testing window. This reduces the risk of penalties by giving you more time to allow for any unexpected delays. Cross compliance verifiable standards define severity based on how overdue a test is. The payment reduction matrix gives a percentage payment reduction based on the severity.

On farm slaughter of TB reactors To address the farming community’s concerns around witnessing the on farm slaughter of cattle, the Welsh Government and the Chief Veterinary Officer for Wales believe that farmers should be able to request euthanasia by lethal injection (which will be paid for by the Welsh Government) in the following three situations: • Where cows are heavily in calf (when relevant criteria are met) • For welfare reasons • Where there is lack of abattoir capacity

With effect from this summer, farmers will be able to request lethal injection where any of the three situations mentioned above apply. Reminder on Informed Purchasing Cattle keepers should be mindful that buying in cattle always carries the risk of introducing disease onto premises. The risks of buying cattle from herds where the TB history is unknown, or the source herd has only recently been released from restrictions, should always be considered and assessed prior to purchasing cattle.

80% of all confirmed breakdowns in the Low TB Area can be attributable to cattle movements. In the High TB Area, 25% of all confirmed breakdowns are attributable to cattle movement. It is also important for farmers to provide TB information at the point of sale. Keepers may wish to utilise the Information Bovine TB (ibTB) system www.ibtb.co.uk which provides up-to-date and historical information about the location of TB incidents, to help farmers make informed purchasing decisions.

Post Movement Testing in Low TB Area of Wales Keepers are reminded that if they bring cattle (including calves under the age of 42 days) into the Low TB Area, from an Intermediate TB Area or High TB Area in Wales (or from England’s Edge Area, High Risk Area, or Northern Ireland), they must arrange for them to be Post-Movement Tested between 60-120 days after the movement takes place. Cattle moved into the Low TB Area from a higher disease area cannot move from the holding, except to slaughter, until the Post-Movement Test has taken place with clear results. Badger Found Dead Survey If you discover a dead badger, please call 0808 1695110 and provide the location of the badger and grid reference, if possible.

Quarantine Units What is a Quarantine Unit? A Quarantine Unit (QU) is a biosecure to house animals moving on to a farm from a market or other holding, or for animals returning from an . The QU will quarantine animals from the rest of the main holding for the duration of the 6DSS, allowing the rest of the holding to function as normal. Quarantine Units are designed to provide an appropriate balance between effective disease control measures and flexibility of movements for trade.

Benefits of a Quarantine Unit • New or returned animals can complete a 6DSS in the QU, allowing your main holding to operate as normal • Animals can be moved between a QU and multiple shows, without the need for a 6DSS • Housing new animals in a QU protects your main flock/herd from the spread of disease Farms that do not have a certified QU will be required to observe a 6DSS when introducing or returning animals to their main holding. We recommend farmers decide whether or not to establish a QU based on the needs and operation of their farm.

QU Review Welsh Government conducted a review of the scheme in 2018. A list of the review recommendations was published in a Welsh Government press notice in December 2018. Earlier this year Welsh Government published improved guidance for QUs and produced a promotional film. For more information visit gov.wales/quarantineunits E-NEWSLETTER

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THE LATEST AGRICULTURE NEWS AND INFORMATION DIRECT TO YOUR INBOX Salmonella Incidents of a new strain of Salmonella typhimurium in are being investigated. This strain is associated with an on-going human outbreak, and can affect other livestock including pigs, poultry, horses, cattle, farm dogs and wildlife.

Clinical signs Affected ewes are proving to be dull and have diarrhoea, and affected flocks have high mortality rates. However, not all animals display clinical signs, but still can carry and shed Salmonella.

Risk to Public Health Human illness in this outbreak is mostly associated with the handling of and consumption of lamb and mutton, whilst infection through direct contact with infected animals is also possible.

Entry routes of Salmonella to your farm Livestock keepers should be mindful that Salmonella can be introduced by : • Movement of animals; • Shared equipment and machinery; • Vehicles; • Contaminated clothing and footwear; • Contaminated feed; and, • Wildlife Depending on the weather, Salmonella can potentially survive for months in the environment.

Prevention Measures – Biosecurity High biosecurity standards are therefore essential to help prevent the spread of Salmonella on your farm, and to reduce any risk to public health. • Ensure equipment and vehicles are cleaned thoroughly using approved disinfectants, especially after delivering animals to a market, abattoir or show; • Avoid sharing equipment where possible; • Wear dedicated personal protective equipment (PPE) including footwear when visiting livestock markets, a lairage or other farms; • Limit and control visitors to your farm premises, and ensure they adhere to your biosecurity requirements; • Maintain personal hygiene, including washing hands. This is essential in reducing the threat to human health; • Check the health status of flocks before buying in animals; • Quarantine new animals and avoid mixing groups; • Avoid direct contact of animals with animals on neighbouring farms; • Discourage vermin, and avoid contamination from wildlife; and, • Always submit the Food Chain Information (FCI) when delivering animals to slaughterhouse or market, giving details of any health concerns.

African Swine Fever (ASF) ASF is a highly contagious viral disease which does not affect humans, but it is potentially fatal to pigs. It is a notifiable disease, so if suspected must be reported to your local Animal and Plant Health (APHA) office immediately for further investigation. ASF has never been reported in the UK, although the risk of ASF entering the UK has increased following the continued spread of infection in continental Europe, having reached Belgium, the first country to be affected in Western Europe. Due to the continued import of pig meat from affected countries, the risk for the entry of contaminated or infected products into the UK is “medium”, whilst the risk of exposure to the pig population in the UK is still dependent on the level of biosecurity on pig premises and is still considered to be “low”, although the situation is being kept under review. Clinical Signs Pig keepers should be vigilant for the following clinical signs: • Blotchy, discolouration of the skin • Coughing • Discharges from the nose and eyes • Diarrhoea and vomiting • Abortions, stillbirths and weak litters • Loss of appetite and weight

Preventing and controlling African swine fever You can help prevent the disease by practising strict biosecurity on your premises. Pig keepers are reminded that they must not feed kitchen or catering waste, or meat or meat products to their pigs, and that the practice is illegal. The biggest risk of the disease entering the UK’s pig population is through pigs eating infected pork or pork products. If the disease were to reach the UK it could have a devastating effect on our export market and would also mean the humane culling of pigs on infected premises to prevent further spread. If an outbreak were to occur in Wales, the Welsh Government would act swiftly and decisively to eradicate the disease and regain disease free status. The Welsh Government has robust contingency plans in place, which are regularly reviewed and tested in exercises and actual disease incidents.

Bluetongue Virus (BTV) Bluetongue is a notifiable insect-borne viral disease, affecting all ruminants, including sheep, cattle, goats and camelids. The transmission routes of bluetongue into the UK are through midges and importing an already infected animal. A UK outbreak would affect its Bluetongue free status and trade. For further information on Bluetongue, please visit the gov.wales website. Current Situation Two strains of bluetongue virus (BTV-4 and BTV-8) are circulating in mainland Europe, including France and Germany. Both strains could spread into the UK if infected midges are carried by the wind to the south and south-east of England, or if infected animals are imported. Importing Livestock from Europe You should carefully consider the risks and the health status of animals before deciding to import stock from BTV affected countries. If you do decide to import animals from those countries you should: • make sure that imported animals come with the correct paperwork to show they have been vaccinated against the relevant strains of bluetongue • consider what additional guarantees the seller can provide as to the animal’s vaccination status before purchasing (for example – by requesting that a pre- export test is carried out to prove immunity to BTV) • consider pre-vaccinating your flock/herd against the relevant strains of bluetongue ahead of the new animals’ arrival. Animals imported from affected countries will have their movements restricted until they have been tested for infection. Infected animals will be culled. Animals which travelled in the same vehicle and are at risk of becoming infected may be culled. No compensation will be paid for the culled animals. All animals on the premises that are at risk of becoming infected will be placed under restrictions until it is confirmed the disease has not spread. For the latest UK risk status of Bluetongue, please visit gov.uk Bovine EID In December 2018, the Minister for Environment, Energy and Rural Affairs, Lesley Griffiths announced the development of Wales’ first multispecies traceability system; Multi Species Wales. The current EIDCymru system is being extended to bring together one system for cattle, sheep and pigs. The first priority is to transfer the cattle system and our aim will be to combine this with the implementation of electronic identification of cattle.

Identification tags To ensure the continuation of trade post Brexit, European requirements will still need to be followed. Please continue to follow the double tagging requirements for cattle. Only order conventional tags (not EID) and please only order enough ear tags for one year. Any unused ear tags must be kept securely. Multi Species Wales will only be able to use Bovine EID ear tags when the number formatting and colour of the tags have been agreed.

Consultation Bovine EID will be phased-in for Wales over the next few years after a formal consultation with the industry. After the consultation process, the Welsh Government will be able to provide an implementation date for Bovine EID in Wales.

Time to act to tackle the risk of antibiotic resistance Antibiotics are essential for treating bacterial diseases that threaten human and animal health, having saved many millions of lives since their introduction in the 1940s. The impacts of leaving AMR unchecked are wide-ranging and extremely costly, not only in financial terms but also in terms of global health, food security, environmental wellbeing and socioeconomic development. In Wales, we are supporting the UK-wide 5 year UK AMR Control Plan by – for the first time – developing and delivering a detailed programme of work, tailor-made for Welsh animal-keepers and the Welsh environment, to keep our antibiotics effective. The Wales Animal and Environment AMR Implementation Plan has been published in July 2019 and will be led by a new Animal and Environment AMR Delivery Group which includes representatives from the farming industry, veterinary profession and Public Health Wales. Our plan includes the major goals to: reduce infectious diseases in animals and the resulting need for antibiotic treatment, ensure that when animals do need treatment, that antibiotics are used responsibly, to the highest standards of stewardship better understand and address the spread of antibiotics and resistant bacteria in the environment, to and from animals and people, in the food they eat and the spaces they share. The approach throughout will be to put “prevention rather than cure” into practice on all livestock farms in Wales, and to adopt a One Health approach by addressing the risk of AMR in animals, alongside that in people and the environment. As animal keepers, we all have a role to play in keeping antibiotics effective. Farmers should ensure that the need to use antibiotics in their livestock is minimised by practising good biosecurity and by animal health planning with their vet. Please consult your veterinary surgeon for more information – there are several Welsh Government initiatives to help you promote high health standards and to control the risk of AMR. Further information can be found at: gov.wales/animal-and-environment- antimicrobial-resistance-delivery-group

Gwaredu BVD Programme in Wales Gwaredu BVD is an industry-led programme funded by the Welsh Government’s Rural Development Programme and run by the Wales Animal Health and Welfare Framework Group with the aim of eradicating BVD in Wales. The programme is currently in its second year of screening up until 31 August 2019. The programme is very popular, with over 7,000 herds in Wales screened to date. Testing for Gwaredu BVD is free on the programme and for those herds found with a positive anti-body screening, an additional £500 is available to conduct a PI Hunt, in order to track down the persistently infected animal. BVD is a costly disease which can impact on the efficiency level of a farm as well as reducing the standard of the herd’s welfare. It’s strongly recommended that all farms take advantage of the free screening and support available through the Gwaredu BVD programme. For more information, talk directly to your vet or visit the Gwaredu BVD website www.ahww.cymru, email [email protected] or call 01554 748576

The Wales Animal Health and Welfare Framework Group – 2019-20 Implementation Plan Published Welsh Government and the Wales Animal Health and Welfare Framework Group will publish the 2019-20 Implementation Plan for the Wales Animal Health and Welfare Framework at the Royal Welsh Show. The Framework, launched in 2014, seeks to improve animal health and welfare standards across Wales and increase partnership working with animal keepers and industry. The Group are pivotal in providing established links between the Welsh Government, livestock keepers, animal owners, industry representatives and the veterinary profession, covering the whole spectrum of animal health and welfare issues. Publication of the 2019-20 Implementation Plan demonstrates our continued commitment to progress key animal health and welfare priorities despite the uncertainty and increased pressures of ongoing Brexit negotiations. This year’s priorities include taking forward the next phase of the Bovine Viral Diarrhoea (BVD), Sheep scab and Bovine TB Eradication Programmes, as well as continuing to meet statutory obligations to safeguard the food chain and public health and promote responsible ownership. The scope of the Implementation Plan is wide ranging, but collaborative working will continue to raise animal health and welfare standards and promote healthy Welsh livestock, protect human health, the environment and safeguard the local economy. A copy of the Wales Animal Health and Welfare Framework Implementation Plan can be accessed here www.wales.gov.uk/ahwframework Equine viral arteritis a disease that affects horses, mules and donkeys www.gov.uk/guidance/equine-viral-arteritis

Signs can include: abortions (failed pregnancies) conjunctivitis (bloody tissue around the eye) swelling of testicles or udder swelling around eyes and lower legs fever and runny nose anorexia (poor appetite) lethargy and stiff movement Many infected horses will show no clinical signs. In rare cases the disease can cause severe clinical signs or death in young foals.

The disease can be spread through: mating artificial insemination contact with aborted foetuses contaminated equipment on the breath of infected animals for up to 2 weeks after initial infection Stallions can carry the disease without showing clinical signs and spread the disease through sexual contact, or if their semen is used for artificial insemination.

You can help prevent the disease by: practicing good biosecurity on your premises and follow codes of practice (https://codes.hblb.org.uk) testing all stallions, teasers and mares before breeding talking to your vet about vaccinating stallions following guidance on isolation and testing when importing horses If you suspect disease you must isolate any animals, stop them mating and report to APHA.

By law suspicion of disease must be reported: England: 03000 200 301 | Wales: 03003 038 268 | Scotland: local APHA office Water Abstraction Licence Changes to water abstraction licensing exemptions in Wales: New Authorisations Do you use water? Do you need an abstraction licences? In the past, certain abstractors have been exempt from needing a licence to take water. To allow us to manage water resources effectively and fairly, these exemptions have been removed and most abstractions now need licensing. In Wales, Natural Resources Wales is responsible for managing our water resources.

Does it apply to me? If you take more than 20 cubic metres (4,400 gallons) per day from a surface or groundwater source like a river, a well or a borehole you are likely to need a licence. So, if you take water for your farm, caravan park, quarry or industrial operation for example, please consider carefully if this applies to you.

What do I need to do? Apply for a licence before September 2019. The final deadline is 31 December 2019, but it may take Natural Resources Wales 3 months or more to check, acknowledge and address any issues with your application, so submit as soon as possible. If you don’t apply, you may lose your right to abstract water as you have done in the past. It is your responsibility to apply.

Where can I find out more? Please see Natural Resources Wales’ website for the application form and further information on how to apply or contact Natural Resources Wales on 0300 065 3000 or via enquiries@ cyfoethnaturiolcymru.gov.uk. naturalresources.wales/permits-and-permissions Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management We are responsible for developing flood and coastal risk management policy and programme in Wales. We largely fund flood and coastal activities undertaken by Local Authorities and Natural Resources Wales to reduce risk to communities. Did you know? • Across Wales over 245,000 properties are at risk of flooding from rivers, the sea and surface water • Almost 400 properties also at risk from coastal erosion •The Welsh coastline is protected by 415km of constructed coastal defence • We are investing over £350 million in flood and coastal erosion risk management over the life of this Government (2016-2021). Check flood warnings, find out if you’re at risk from river or coastal flooding now or in the next few days: naturalresources.wales/flooding/check-flood-warnings You can sign up for automated warnings at: naturalresources.wales/flooding/sign-up-to-receive-flood-warnings We are updating our National Strategy for Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management in Wales. We want to hear your views on our new National Strategy and how we propose to manage flood and coastal erosion risk and people and communities. gov.wales/national-strategy-flood-and-coastal-erosion-risk-management Sustainable Land Management – in Action The Welsh Government’s Rural Communities – Rural Development Programme (RC-RDP) Sustainable Management Scheme (SMS) is investing over £20M supporting 40 collaborative, landscape scale projects that are improving our natural resources across Wales. The scheme launched in 2016 has now opened another window for expressions of interest to provide further investment in sustainable land management. This window will be open until 8 August and help is available to groups involving farmers and foresters interested in applying to the scheme. The SMS provides financial support for a range of activities that will improve the management of our natural resources and in doing so contribute to the well- being of our rural communities. Once projects are invited to develop full applications they benefit from a close working relationship with the dedicated SMS team in the Welsh Government. The team works with the projects to improve how it can deliver against the national natural resources priorities as well as meeting local challenges and creating new opportunities for the surrounding communities. Current SMS projects including collaborations with farmers and graziers have seen the benefits of working together, being inspired to work with new and traditional methods and approaches and involving the communities in those areas. One of the first projects underway is theManaging Resources Sustainably in the Black Mountains. The Black Mountains Land Use Partnership brings together farmers and graziers who live and work in the Black Mountains, alongside land owners, Brecon Beacons National Park Authority, Dwr Cymru and Natural Resources Wales to collaborate on the future management, sustainability and resilience of the Black Mountains. Activity focusses on peatland restoration, bracken management and improved public access to enable better enjoyment of the area. This is combined with training local businesses to be ambassadors of the landscape, engaging local schools with the story of the Black Mountains and a sustainable rural skills programme to train future land managers. Another early project is looking at new ways of paying for natural resources management. Located on the Llŷn Peninsula the Tir a Môr Llŷn – Land and Sea project is working with local farmers, the Llŷn Landscape Partnership and the National Trust to explore ways for outcome derived payments to tenant farmers to manage the natural resources sustainably on Trust land. A farmer led project Fferm Ifan Ecosystem Service Improvement Scheme has brought together a new collaboration of 11 farmers. The group is taking action on improving and managing natural resources in this upland area in a more sustainable way to derive better economic viability and community benefits from adaptations to existing work practices. More information on all the projects involved in the SMS can be found at – gov.wales/sustainable-management-scheme

Anyone interested in receiving support to develop project ideas or new collaborations to apply to the SMS can contact the SMS support service delivered by Farming Connect – businesswales.gov.wales/farmingconnect Wales Rural Network Support Unit (WRNSU) We are part of the wider EU and UK Network, working together to support and promote the exchange of expertise in rural development. We are here to support activities funded under the Welsh Government Rural Communities – Rural Development Programme 2014–2020. What we do: • share and exchange information, news stories and press releases • organise and promote free events and initiatives promoting the Rural Development Programme • promote projects examples and case studies via the WRN Web pages • communicate and promote funding opportunities • arrange study visits to encourage co-operation and sharing of knowledge • connect businesses, community groups and others interested in improving rural areas • share and exchange best practices Would you like to get involved? • subscribe to our newsletter and social media channels • be inspired via our interactive project map • interested in Rural Events • information on good practice, resources or project ideas • engage with others on rural development across Europe

facebook.com/WalesRuralNet @WalesRuralNet E-mail [email protected] businesswales.gov.wales/walesruralnetwork Farm Liaison Service Supporting Welsh Farmers… Confidential, one-to-one guidance and support

26565 Dairy Show Panel 20_PRINT.indd 1 13/10/2015 14:11 If you need to discuss any issues contact one of our officers below: RITA JONES JANET PHILLIPS (Welsh speaker) (Welsh speaker) Wales / South West Wales North West Wales 07971 048619 07774 950654 [email protected] [email protected]

MERYL EVANS STEVE MEREDITH Mid Wales 07721 894869 07721 894873 [email protected] [email protected]

JANE WALTERS GILL HARRIES South East Wales South West Wales 07721 894875 07977 505225 [email protected] Gillian.harries@ gov.wales

ARMANDO MORGAN CATRIN JONES (Welsh speaker) (Welsh speaker) North East Wales South East Wales 07774 950639 07968 159637 [email protected] [email protected] You are invited to… add value to your business, invest in your future, be part of the success story • Meet the inventors, manufacturers and distributors at the forefront of today’s cutting-edge innovation and new technologies for farm and forestry businesses • Learn how today’s most successful diversification enterprises prosper in a competitive market • Transform your ideas into reality by tapping into Farming Connect guidance, support, training and mentoring

10:00-16:00 South Glamorgan Hall, Royal Welsh Showground, Llanelwedd LD2 3SY For more information contact: [email protected] Free entry Prepare for the future with support from Farming Connect …all services fully funded or subsidised by up to 80%

You are invited to… • Improve efficiency across all areas of working add value to your business, invest in your future, be part of the success story • Decrease inputs and increase outputs • Meet the inventors, manufacturers and distributors at • Access business and technical advice the forefront of today’s cutting-edge innovation and new • Develop both business and practical skills technologies for farm and forestry businesses • Learn how today’s most successful diversification • Benchmark performance, set KPIs, work towards progress enterprises prosper in a competitive market • Keep up to date with innovation and best practice • Transform your ideas into reality by tapping into Farming Connect guidance, support, training and mentoring

10:00-16:00 South Glamorgan Hall, Royal Welsh Showground, Llanelwedd LD2 3SY For more information contact: [email protected] Free entry

Contact your local development officer www.gov.wales/farmingconnect Lantra Wales USEFUL 01982 552 646 CONTACT Natural Resources Wales (NRW) DETAILS 0300 065 3000

Addington Fund Quality Welsh Food 01926 620 135 Certification Body 01970 636 688 Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution 0300 303 8268 (RABI) Badger Found Dead Survey 0808 281 9490

0808 169 5110 Rural Payments Wales Customer Contact Centre British Cattle Movement Service (BCMS) 0300 062 5004

0345 050 3456 TB Helpline

DPJ Foundation 0800 496 1439 contact@thedpjfoundation The Farming Community Network (FCN) EID Cymru 03000 111 999 01970 636 959 Tir Dewi (Carmarthenshire, Farming Connect Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire) 08456 000 813 0800 121 4722

© Crown copyright 2019 WG38240 Print ISBN: 978 1 83876 810 2 Digital ISBN 978 1 83876 811 9