Sheep FarmerMARCH/APRIL 2012 THE JOURNAL OF THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION

CHOOSING GRASSES NSA SHEEP EVENTS 2012 ANTHELMINTIC RESISTANCE REDUCING GREENHOUSE GASES IS A CONSTANT THREAT

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Sheep Phil Stocker Writes...... 2 Farmer NSA South Sheep 2012 ...... 3 Regional Reports ...... 4 Vol. 31, No 2 March/April 2012 NSA Sheep 2012 ...... 7 ISSN 0141-2434 A Shepherd Publication NSA Eastern Region Winter Fair ...... 8 Published by NSA Scotsheep ...... 10 Shepherd Publishing Ltd The Sheep Centre, Malvern, NSA Honours Past CEO ...... 12 Worcestershire WR13 6PH Tel: 01684 565533 Wool Prices Still Strong ...... 14 Fax: 01684 565577 e-mail: [email protected] No Longer an Island ...... 16 Editor: Peter Reynolds Quality Finishing Vital ...... 17 Editorial Assistant: Jill Smith Veterinary Matters: Controlling Chlamydial Abortion ...... 18 Consultant Editor: Phil Stocker, NSA CEO Anthelmintic Resistance in NZ ...... 20 Designer: Choose Grasses to Suit Job in Hand ...... 22 Hannah Thorley BA (Hons) Publisher: Reducing Greenhouse Gas ...... 24 Howard Venters UK Becomes Net Exporter of Lamb ...... 25

SCOPS: Faecal Egg Counting ...... 26

Breed Society Directory ...... 27

An independent body representing the Classifieds ...... 28 interests of UK sheep producers. Chairman John Geldard FRAgS Sheep Farmer Chief Executive Phil Stocker

MARCH/APRIL 2012 THE JOURNAL OF THE NATIONAL SHEEP ASSOCI NSA, The Sheep Centre, Malvern, ATION Worcs WR13 6PH. Front cover: Tel: 01684 892661 Fax: 01684 892663 e-mail: [email protected] website: www.nationalsheep.org.uk Historic Dumfries House, venue for Scotsheep 2012 A Company Limited by Guarantee. Registered in England No. 37818. - See page 10 CHOOSING GRASSES Registered Charity No: 249255 NSA SHEEP EVENTS 2012 ANTHELMINTIC RESISTANCE Charity registered in Scotland SC042853. REDUCING GREENHOUSE GASES VAT No: 273 3469 44 Shepherd Publishing Ltd gives notice that no part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior consent of the publishers. Every care is taken when compiling editorial and advertisements and the publishers can accept no responsibility for errors and omissions arising from publication. Views expressed and information contained in Sheep Farmer are not necessarily those of the Editor or of the National Sheep Association who cannot therefore be held responsible for any reason arising therefrom. Neither the Association, the Publisher nor the Editor endorses any services or products advertised in this issue. Paper is FSC® certified. It is sourced from responsibly managed forests.

MARCH/APRIL 2012 1 ROUNDUP

Board Chairman John Geldard FRAgS The Sheep Centre Malvern Worcestershire WR13 6PH Tel: 01684 892661 Phil Stocker Writes... Fax: 01684 892663

Central region Chairman Bob Payne - Sheffield Tel: 01142 883241 [email protected]. co.uk Membership Matters Secretary Anne Payne - Sheffield Tel: 01142 883241 [email protected] he start of 2012 has been separation units on farms are being Cymru Wales region extremely positive with lots discussed. We have also been active in Chairman David Pittendreigh Carmarthenshire of activities taking place both the area of the national sheep movements Tel: 01559 395372 centrally and in the regions. The database, export requirements relating [email protected] T very first NSA Eastern Region Winter Fair to Scrapie, and the lifting of the post Secretary Mrs Helen Davies - Powys at Melton Mowbray was a huge success, Chernobyl sheep controls. Tel/Fax: 01938 590535 the first meeting of our new NSA Board All of these issues bear relation to [email protected] took place, we held a national Regional traceability, biosecurity, and disease Eastern region Manager’s meeting, and launched our control and our eye has to stay firmly Chairman Andrew Foulds - Norfolk Tel: 01842 890828 dog attack/sheep worrying reporting fixed on doing what is required to protect [email protected] service. and advance the sheep sector without The emerging cases of Schmallenberg unnecessary burdens. Secretary Jonathan Barber - Norfolk Tel: 01953 607860 virus here in the UK give rise to concern On the technical front the NSA is Fax: 01953 607626 across the UK, and there is more detail working with the Sheep Health and

Marches region about this elsewhere in your magazine. Welfare Group who are planning a major Chairman Nick Davies On the policy front we have been sheep health and welfare conference in Tel: 07818 096647 working on implementation plans for the late Autumn, and of course out in the [email protected] changes around the six day standstill as regions working with many other partners Secretary Angela Weston - Gloucestershire an outcome of the Richard MacDonald to deliver sound technical guidance to Tel: 01454 260220 [email protected] review where proposals for adequate sheep producers.

Northern region Chairman Geoff Lawn Tel: 01756 793165 [email protected]

Secretary Mrs Julie A Sedgewick - Co. Durham Tel: 01325 314650 Mob: 07836 773888 [email protected]

Northern Ireland region Chairman Maurice McHenry Tel: 02820 762093 [email protected]

Secretary Edward Adamson - Co.Antrim Tel/Fax: 028 9336 6225 [email protected]

Scottish region Chairman Jim Sinclair - Midlothian Tel: 01875 835232 [email protected]

Secretary George Milne - Fife Tel: 01334 472403 Fax: 01334 475406

South East region Chairman Chris Hodgkins Tel: 01903 892443 [email protected]

Secretary Bob Blanden Tel: 01666 860308 Mob: 07860689391 [email protected]

South West region Chairman David Gregory Tel: 01271 882287 [email protected]

Secretary Sue Martyn - Cornwall Tel/Fax: 01409 271385 [email protected]

2 SHEEP FARMER Sheep Event It won’t come as any surprise that the other activity keeping staff busy is the NSA South Sheep 2012 planning of the 2012 Sheep Event at ith plans well in hand for the agricultural college with a £500 prize Malvern on the 4th July – this event will NSA South Sheep event, the fund. almost be the antithesis of ‘Independence organising committee are A full programme of seminars is Day’ with so many organisations and W delighted to announce that Novartis being arranged with something to suit companies taking part in what offers to Animal Health and Randall Parker Foods everyone. Alongside the trade and breed be a thought provoking, informative and have again agreed to be the Major society stands there will be a range of enjoyable day out. Sponsors of the day. Mole Valley Farmers competitions, demonstrations and the I wanted to make mention of some of have also renewed their commitment farm tour. Full details will be in the May/ the outcomes of our first Board meeting to younger people by sponsoring the June issue of the Sheep Farmer and on and remind you that once the minutes Shepherd of the Future competition, the event website that can be accessed are approved by the Board, they will be with a £1,000 prize fund and the winner from www.nationalsheep.org.uk or from available to all members to inform you (age permitting) representing the region event organiser Sue Martyn. Tel: 01409 of the key decisions taken by the Board at the National at Malvern in July. New 271385/07967512660 or email: suem@ that affect you and the NSA. this year is a section for students at nationalsheep.org.uk q On the 18th January your new NSA Board met at the Farmers Club. A few of the main decisions include: time you read this magazine. of our organisation and the work we do • John Geldard was elected as NSA • Finally, the Board agreed that to those involved with sheep and in the Chairman and Chair of the Board– the NSA should develop a future wider world too. q John was actually elected at last strategy. This is not to say our year’s AGM but had to endure a activities will necessarily change, second election within six months due but times do and the NSA needs to to the new Articles coming into play move with them (whilst not losing Russia on the 1st January. its traditionality of course). A clearly • The Board approved plans for our structured strategy will ensure that arket access for lamb exports sheep worrying database – our aims NSA’s activities continuer to properly Mto Russia has come under the are to gather information and use it to address the needs and priorities of its spotlight during a recent inspection of raise awareness amongst authorities membership. UK farms and processors by a Russian and dog owners. delegation. • The date of the 2012 AGM was Organisation Eight Russian vets spent just over a agreed as the 15th August – the We have already started on this week with Defra’s export team visiting venue and programme will be organisational review – it’s not going farms and processing facilities as part available shortly. to be complicated and it’s not going of the process of developing market • It was agreed that, with the aim to cost much time or money, but it is access for the UK. of communicating with the younger going to mean we have a renewed vision Peter Hardwick, head of trade generations, we should explore of what we are trying to achieve – and development for EBLEX, said: “Russia the use of modern communication some indicators of how we are doing. is one of our target markets for both technologies such as ‘Twitter’ and I want to share this with you at various lamb and exports. As such, the ‘Facebook’. meetings in the near future and hope visit of the Russian delegation is a step • Approval was given for the new NSA that we end up with something that in the right direction.” q web site – this should be live by the helps us communicate the importance

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MARCH/APRIL 2012 3 prices all year, and with the press telling by the HYBU Cig Cymru. of full mouth in lamb ewes reaching In 1982 David was elected President £145, confidence seems high moving of the Society and in into spring. 2009 was elected President of the North The mild winter (it’s snowing now) has Country Society. fuelled this confidence, fodder crops are It has been an honour and privilege still growing and very little concentrate or to serve both societies and he looks REGIONAL hay has been fed due to the prolonged forward to serving NSA Cymru over the growing conditions. The ewes have next two years. REPORTS responded by being in exceptional At the AGM we were delighted to condition. Scanning results in the region welcome Deputy Minister Alun Davies however seem to be a mixed bag, good and the new NSA Chief Executive Phil Northern Ireland if grass was plentiful or well back if grass Stocker as our guest speakers. A full 012 has begun with numerous was short at tupping report will be given in the next issue, 2consultations needing replies from Congratulations to all our young although I can say that Members are not N.I. Region. Most important for us shepherds who took part in the Young happy with the decision of no tolerance is the new CAP Proposals which are Shepherds World Championship held in with regard to EID recording. expected to come into force in 2014. New Zealand in November. Especially to Your Development Officer has attended N.I. Region would be totally opposed to the victorious English team, who I am many meetings on the Region’s behalf. suggestions regarding ‘Greening’ and sure will have left behind a few bruised The Scab Task and Finish Group have the ways of investigating the eligibility egos in the Southern Hemisphere. met with representatives from Scotland of active ‘farmers.’ In general the new On another positive theme, I am and will now meet to formulate an action proposals appear to increase red tape delighted to report that Hadlow College plan to raise awareness and move the & bureaucracy and rather than promote have introduced a new two year process forward. Dafydd Jones, one of biodiversity and production they are likely specialist Sheep Management Course, the hosts of NSA Welsh Sheep has joined to have a negative effect. Hopefully the commencing September 2012.This is this committee and will be a welcome agreed proposals will be an improvement just what our industry and the region addition. The Health and Welfare Group on what’s on the table at present, but needs. Sheep farming is experiencing has discussed many issues including whatever happens NSA will be trying to exciting times and we need young, well- Schmallenberg virus. The Group is also get a fair share for sheep farmers. educated shepherds to take advantage looking forward to planning the 2014 We have had a series of meetings of everything from high sugar grass to Health and Welfare strategy for Wales. on ‘Worm Resistance in sheep’ around genetics. If you are interested and require NSA Cymru/Wales has welcomed the Province in conjunction with Pfizer more details contact Hadlow College on the publication of the Working Smarter Animal Health in an effort to highlight 0500 551434. Review and looks forward to gaining the seriousness of the recent findings Finally please put a ring round implementation of many of the 74 on local resistance in a recent survey Wednesday 13th June in your diary for recommendations that are made with in conducted by AFBI. our biannual NSA South sheep event it. We had a useful meeting on our held at Nugent Farms Ltd, Lambourn, The Region had held a series of Chairman Maurice McHenry’s farm in Berks. The event promises to be a must evening road shows in conjunction with Ballycastle with DUP MEP Diane Dodds for every sheep keeper in the region and the British Wool Marketing Board and where she had a chance to see EID in is hosted by a particularly well run sheep we would like to thank all those that action. A trip up on to his hill to see areas unit and farm. attended, chairman and speakers for of heather and gorse and discuss land Chris Hodgkins, Chairman their time. eligibility was followed by a welcome hot Enclosed in this issue is the third NSA ‘cuppa’ and snack. Cymru/Wales Cymru/Wales Report with a roundup of The Region will have a presence at ohn Lloyd stepped down from the Chair the last two years. the NBA Beef NI Event on 6th March in Jof NSA Cymru/Wales he has been a Helen Davies, Secretary Dungannon Farmers Mart. great ambassador for NSA and although NI NSA Officials and Committee would not in office I am sure he will keep up the Eastern like to congratulate Peter Morris on his good work. John is succeeded by David he cold weather didn’t deter a large well-deserved winning of The George Pittendreigh who was born and brought Tnumber of visitors attending the Hedley Award. up in Aberdeenshire and after attending inaugural Eastern Region Winter Fair Edward Adamson, Agricultural College went on to become at Melton Mowbray Market on Friday Development Officer a shepherd on the Black Isle with a flock 27th January. We were delighted with of North Country Cheviots. He then the response from visitors and trade South East went on to become a Farm Manager in exhibitors who were all highly positive riting this article at the end of the Borders on a mixed arable and sheep and complimentary for the event. The WJanuary, I like every other farm, from here he moved to Wales in day offered an excellent programme of keeper, am holding my breath to see if 1971 and started a flock of Llanwenog seminars, and thanks to all speakers. Schmallenberg Virus ( S.B.V.) develops sheep. Two years later he established a Also thanks to Reaseheath College for into more that the four confirmed cases flock of North Country Cheviots, which co-ordinating the Young Shepherds to date. With the lambing season about came from the Black Isle. In the late Competition. A full report and to kick into full swing, I suppose we will seventies he started recording both photographs of the event can be found all soon know. flocks with the MLC. He still continues elsewhere in the publication. On a happier note, finished lamb to record the Cheviots through the Sheep Thank you to all the stewards prices have traded above last year’s and Beef Development programme run and helpers from the region for the

4 SHEEP FARMER considerable time, effort and enthusiasm Malcolm Corbett, who gave a very so we can responsibly trace the spread they put into the event. The day went interesting and informative presentation and potential impact on our industry. like clockwork, which was very much on the work of the BWMB. Phil Prices have been very buoyant with due to the efficient and friendly way Stocker, newly appointed NSA CEO positive returns back to stores and everyone handled the tasks. Thank you gave an update on the NSA’s work, prime lambs. I believe this will continue also to Dan Phipps and Darley Stud and was welcomed to the region by the with the increased demand globally for Management for supplying the sheep for Chairman. protein. The Marches region held yet the Young Shepherds Competition, the The T I Allinson Memorial Award another excellent technical meeting at EBLEX stand and for DM Handling. presented by NSA northern region for Fishermans Arms at Docklow. Guest The venue at Melton was ideal and a outstanding contribution to the northern speakers were Kate Phillips discussing big thank you to Bryan Robinson and all farming industry was awarded to Arthur the need of quality nutrition for the flock the market staff who could not have been Yeates, Bardon Mill, Northumberland. and Harriet Fuller on issues around liver more co-operative. Also to the Market Arthur was nominated for his work fluke. These are not new messages but Tavern for providing an excellent dinner with the formation and running of the what was encouraging was the amount on Thursday evening, a superb buffet Sheep Breed, who of new faces attending. These two for the sponsors and press on Friday celebrate their 50th anniversary this year. issues can have serious impacts on and a good supply of hot food and drink The date for NSA North Sheep 2013 performance, finances and productivity if throughout the day for stand holders and has been confirmed as Wednesdayth 5 not managed, measured and monitored visitors. June 2013. The venue for the event will effectively. With a positive vibe about The accounts have not been finalised be confirmed in the next issue of Sheep returns, what better time to look at the but the event should raise a nice amount Farmer. Planning for the event will start quality of the feed you are using (the to boost the region’s coffers and by the in autumn 2012. – www.northsheep.org. cheapest is not always the best). Getting time you read this we hope to have had uk feed rations balanced, condition scoring a brush up meeting, so we can discuss Julie Sedgewick, Secretary ewes will lead to increased quality milk how best to improve for next time in yield, heavier birth weights, livelier January 2014! Marches lambs, better growth which can only The annual Farm Walk is planned for t the time of writing this many increase and the ability for the Tuesday 19th June when we will visit the Amembers are under way with lambing flock to thrive naturally with Houghton Hall Estate near Kings Lynn, and I wish you all the very best. less intervention. Norfolk. Full details will be sent out Schmallenberg has hit the Liver fluke according to nearer the time. East coast and reports of EBLEX is costing Jonathan Barber, Secretary the issues at lambing producers a loss of £25 are not pleasant, we per beast and £4 per Northern must remember lamb, these are he northern region Annual General that industry took not insignificant TMeeting was held on 8th February at responsibility for amounts. Speak The George Hotel, Piercebridge, North blue tongue and the to your vet and Yorkshire. Geoff Lawn was re-elected control measures. review your health Regional Chairman for his second year, These were implemented plan, ask if you are Adam Watson re-elected Regional Vice and acted upon by industry affected by this, it’s Chairman for a second year and Eddie and worked. Much is still not just thriving in Eastham was also re-elected the regional to learn about the nature the wetlands. All Treasurer. All three were then elected of Schmallenberg - I it needs is a wet to represent the northern region on the encourage you to patch around new English Committee. Geoff Lawn was get any suspect the water also unanimously elected to be the NSA cases to the tank or a northern region representative, on the VI centre wet hole newly formed NSA Management Board. in the The fourteen elected members, from all of the regions of the NSA, will be the Directors of NSA as a company limited by guarantee and the Trustees of NSA as a registered Charity. These individuals are ultimately responsible for NSA and everything done in its name. John Geldard had been the northern region member on the management board, but on being elected national NSA Chairman, was unable to represent the region. We all congratulate John Geldard, on his election as the national NSA Chairman, another in the long list of northern region farmers to take on the important and highly prestigious national role. Guest speakers were the Chairman of the British Wool Marketing Board,

MARCH/APRIL 2012 5 middle of the pasture, this really shows Advisory Group, CAP and LFA. George www.nsascotland.org.uk the need to carry on with these technical finished his presentation looking in to the Stuart Ashworth from QMS provided meetings in the region to update future; he feels that ‘the sheep industry a presentation to the group on the members on local issues that could be has a good and bright future ahead’. ‘Outlook of the Scottish Sheep Industry’. reducing the profitability on farm. After the AGM, David Gray and Gregor There were a lot of interesting facts and Nick Davies, Chairman Ingram took to the floor to provide us figures presented by Stuart and his with an insight into their experience topics of discussion ranged from Global Scotland representing Scotland at the World Meat production, Imports, Exports and AGM and Dinner – Dunblane 11th Young Shepherds Championships out in his thoughts on Consumption. Stuart’s February 2012 Oamaru, NZ. One of their trips took them presentation can downloaded through embers and guests gathered at the to the Pekeuri Meat Plant, where 1000 the menu link above, where you will MDunblane Hydro on Saturday for the staff are employed and slaughter 10,500 see a wide range of graphs and charts NSA Scottish Regions Annual General lambs daily. Another stop for them was explaining trends of ‘The Sheep Meat Meeting. It was good to see the event at Totara Estate, the birthplace of NZ’s Industry’. being well supported and Chairman billion dollar frozen meat industry. It was The Drinks Reception and Dinner Jimmy Sinclair was also pleased to an excellent account of their time spent followed the AGM. After dinner speakers welcome the National Chairman and out there and as they said themselves, were Greirson Dunlop and Jim McLaren Chief Executive of The NSA, Mr John ‘It was a once in a lifetime opportunity’. This year the Auction and Raffle were Geldard and Mr Phil Stocker who made For more information on their experience a record success. The money raised this the trip north of the border to attend the in NZ please feel free to look at their year is to be donated to the St.Columbus AGM and Dinner. presentation, it can be downloaded Hospice, Crammond and to our NSA Development Officer George Milne through the menu link above. Scottish Region Young Shepherds. gave a presentation explaining what the Please see the regions website for George Milne, Development Officer NSA Scottish Region have been involved news on the World Young Shepherds in over the past year. This included; Competition 2012, eliminations in Sheep EID, Woodland Expansion Scotland will be taking place soon** q

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huge diversity of activities competition split in to seven different by the NSA working with EBLEX. Plans designed to inform, inspire and wool categories, while entrants are are also being drawn up by NSA for a challenge all members of the already gearing up for the fencing new cookery award specifically for YFC Asheep sector is at the advanced competition . members. planning stage for NSA Sheep 2012, the “We are pleased to confirm that “Finally, we are indebted to commitment industry’s biennial initiative to be staged NSA Sheep 2012 will be hosting the from our major sponsors, EBLEX, at the Three Counties Show Ground, inaugural European Young Shepherd of Novartis Animal Health and Shearwell Malvern on Wednesday 4 July by the the Year award. Entrants aged 26 years to the industry’s leading business to National Sheep Association and co- and under from a number of countries business event, particularly at a time organiser, the Three Counties Agricultural including France, Germany, Ireland, the when prospects for the 2012 lamb crop Society. Netherlands and Spain will be joining are continuing to look positive.” “We are gearing up for an event our own British representatives in a featuring over 250 trade stands pentathlon of activities designed to test • Don’t forget book in your diary NSA representing a wide range of industry their shepherding skills. Sheep 2012 pre-event industry dinner organisations and companies promoting to be staged on the eve of the event, every aspect of the sector - technical, Butchery and cookery Tuesday 3 July at the Three Counties business and finance, together with more “We are also ensuring that lamb is featured Show Ground. The evening will feature a than 50 sheep breed associations and as an enjoyable eating experience, and guest speaker and locally sourced food. societies,” says event organiser, Helen we will be putting it through its paces in Tickets will shortly be available for more Davies. “The event will also offer a wide a series of cutting and cooking activities. than 200 guests. range of activities including seminars Visitors will be able to watch throughout and debates, details of which we will be the day entrants to the Best Farm Shop For further NSA Sheep 2012 details announcing shortly. Award and the Best English Farm Shop contact Helen Davies on 01938 “In the meantime, entries are open Award, featuring both farm shop owners 590535 / 07976 803066; email: helen@ for two popular features – the auction and their butchers preparing a variety of nationalsheep.org.uk or see www. of sheep dog featuring working collies cuts from a whole carcase and making sheepevent.org.uk from throughout the UK and the fleece up lamb burgers in an initiative designed q Winners at every Winter Fair & Major Primestock Shows 2011 drenched their lambs with Premier Lamb Drench

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MARCH/APRIL 2012 7 NSA Eastern Region Winter Fair he inaugural National Sheep Association Eastern Region Winter Fair held at Melton Mowbray Market on Friday Tth 27 January 2012 proved to be a very successful event. It was opened by Mr Philip Stocker, Chief Executive of the NSA. The Mayor of Melton, Councillor Alison Freer was there to respond and gave an insight into the council’s involvement with the market and the local farming community. She also presented the prizes for the best indoor, outdoor and breed society stands. The cold weather didn’t deter the large number of visitors who thoroughly enjoyed their visit and found the breadth of exhibits interesting and informative. There were over 70 trade and breed British Wool Marketing Board, winners of Best indoor trade stand society stands present offering a wide variety of products from feed, health breed society stands for their support products, sheep handling equipment and to all stewards and helpers. and clothing. The seven seminars which It is hoped to establish this as a bi- took place throughout the day proved annual event to be held again in January very popular with a strong attendance 2014. at each session. A competition was held to find the Eastern Region Young Competition results Shepherd of the Year and this was Best Outdoor Trade Stand Judge: Mr won by Sarah Turner from Ringstead Tim Webster, Melton Mowbray Market in Northamptonshire who is a part 1. David Ritchie (Implements) Ltd time drover in the market. Thanks to 2. Landy Pressure washers Reaseheath College for co-ordinating 3. Fowler Brothers clothing the competition on the day and to Mole Sarah Turner, winner of the Young Valley Farmers / Central Wool Growers Best Indoor Trade Stand Judge: Mr Shepherds Competition, received her for sponsoring the prize money. John Geldard, National Chairman NSA Prize from Malcolm Jesson, Sales On the evening prior to the event 50 1. British Wool Marketing Board Manager, Central Wool Growers people attended an excellent dinner in 2. CCM Auctions the Market Tavern. We were delighted 3. J G Animal Health to welcome the Chief Executive, Phil Stocker and the Mayor of Melton as our Best Breed Society Stand Judge: Mr guests and thanks to the catering staff Dan Phipps, Vice Chairman NSA Eastern at the Tavern who provided a superb Region three course meal. 1. Breed Our sincere thanks to all at Melton 2. Charollais Sheep Breed Mowbray Market whose help in setting 3. Breed up the event was second to none. Also thanks to all the sponsors, trade and Young Shepherds Councillor Alison Freer, Mayor Melton Competition Mowbray, presents the prize for 1. Sarah Turner Best Outside Trade Stand to David from Ringstead, Richardson of Ritchie (Implements) Northamptonshire. Ltd. 2. Jason Shorten from Dersingham, Norfolk. Phil Stocker at the Official Opening 3. Lewis Furr and of the NSA Eastern Region Special Award for Winter Fair Best Under 21, from Downham Market, Norfolk. q

Suffolk Sheep Society, winners of best Breed Society stand

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he Morrisons Farm at Dumfries House at Cumnock in East Ayrshire will be the superb Tvenue for Scotland’s national sheep event, NSA Scotsheep 2012, on Wednesday, June 6. (See www. scotsheep.org.uk for updated information). Historic Dumfries House - one of the most architecturally significant houses in the UK with a unique collection of priceless Chippendale furniture dating back to the 18th century – was saved for the nation in 2007 by HRH The Prince of Wales under his title as the Great Steward of Scotland. The adjoining 960- acre home farm is run as a joint venture by Dumfries House Trust and the UK’s fourth largest supermarket, Morrisons. Dumfries House Estate The farm is very much run as a fresh beef, lamb, pork and poultry in their will feature contributions from leading commercial venture but aims to become 476 stores, are delighted to have been experts in the industry. Subjects under a leading centre of excellence in given the opportunity of hosting NSA scrutiny will include CAP reform and the applied farming research, focused on Scotsheep at Dumfries House. consequences for the Scottish sheep driving profitability and environmental “We look forward to opening the farm industry, the future of the Scottish sheep sustainability and funded by the to the British sheep industry for what industry in a world market and reducing Morrisons Farming Programme. will be an excellent opportunity to share bureaucracy and cross compliance It is, for example, one of three Focus knowledge and develop best practice,” inspections. Farms in Scotland carrying out trials said Group Corporate Services Director, The stockjudging competition, being on behalf of Quality Meat Scotland Martyn Jones. organised by the Ayrshire Federation of comparing the progeny of high The increased returns sheep producers Young Farmers’ Clubs will include two performance rams and rams selected have been enjoying over the past year novel classes for performance recorded solely on visual appraisal. Results of the will give NSA Scotsheep a welcome sheep and cattle, and the Royal latest trials will be announced at NSA boost but Sandy Hay, head of agriculture Highland Education Trust is arranging Scotsheep. at Bank of Scotland, the main sponsors to conduct organised tours of the event of the event, warns that increasing costs for 200 primary school children from six Investment inevitably mean that margins are tight and local schools who have been invited to An investment of £2 million has been producers need to be at the “top of their attend. committed to developing the farming game” to maintain viable businesses. enterprise which comprises 730 Scotch “This is where NSA Scotsheep comes Sheepdog trials Mule ewes, a flock of 20 pedigree in and provides producers with the The sheep dog trials will see keen Suffolk ewes and 250 beef suckler opportunity of sourcing all the latest competition between 30 of Scotland’s cows, including pedigree herds of Beef technical and marketing expertise to help leading handlers and the event will and Aberdeen-Angus. them run a sustainable and profitable be fully supporting the world-wide “The venue has all the ingredients business,” said Mr Hay. Campaign for Wool which has HRH The to provide an outstanding showcase Prince of Wales as its Patron. for the Scottish sheep industry,” said Farm tours The Wool Centre at NSA Scotsheep will NSA Scotland executive committee Features of the event will include the encompass “all things wool”, including a member, Neale McQuistin, who chairs farm tour by tractor and trailer, Scottish continuation of the successful Rediscover the organising committee. Young Shepherd of the Year competition, the Wonders of Wool promotion at the “The farm tour, which will pass close extensive trade stand area and breed Royal Highland Show last year, with visual by Dumfries House itself, will be a major society exhibits, practical and technical displays by the British Wool Marketing attraction for the thousands of sheep demonstrations, on-going seminar Board and demonstrations ranging from farmers expected to attend the event but programme, advisory and educational sheep dressing and shearing to spinning there will also be a huge array of other exhibits, sheepdog trial, stockjudging, and felt making. activities to whet the appetite of visitors. ATV competition, farmers’ market, sheep Visitors will also have the opportunity It is a “must attend” event for all sheep shearing and demonstrations with wool. of taking part in an ATV handling farmers and others in the livestock Three seminars, each lasting a competition, sponsored by Honda and industry.” maximum of 45 minutes, are scheduled judged by a representative from the Morrisons, who sell only 100% British for 11.00am, 1.00pm and 2.00pm and European ATV Safety Institute.

10 SHEEP FARMER Future research plans include a project The venue has all the ingredients supported by the British Grassland Society to measure the dry matter yield to provide an outstanding of different grasses and assess whether reseeded fields are yielding better than showcase for the older pastures. Half of each field will also be sub-soiled to measure the benefits of Scottish sheep industry this technique. Beef cattle Local produce and crafts will be After scanning, ewes are wormed The beef cattle are housed in a new featured in the farmers’ market area and and injected with a clostridial vaccine well ventilated building which provides farming personalities will entertain with and split into groups for those carrying protection from wet and cold winter a “Ready, Steady Cook” style cookery triplets (and any ewes in poorer condition conditions while still giving the cows competition. carrying twins), twins and singles and access to plenty of fresh air. Housing the A major point of interest will be the fed accordingly. The ewes lambed cattle also eliminates the risk of poaching Scottish finals of the NSA’s Shepherd of inside are fed silage with concentrates grass over the winter in an area of high the Year competition. This year for the being introduced before lambing and rainfall. More than seven inches of rain first time eliminating competitions will be continued after turnout until spring grass was recorded in December alone. held at three venues in different parts of is available. All calves from the and Scotland to encourage more participants Only the triplet-carrying outside lambs Aberdeen-Angus herds are finished on and the top four from each elimination will are fed concentrates prior to lambing and the farm, except for heifers retained as quality to compete at NSA Scotsheep. none receive concentrates after lambing replacements. Heifers are calved at two The competition will include sheep unless spring grass growth is slow. years of age and cull cows are sold at the shearing, prime lamb judging, ATV trailer Last year, the flock scanned at 1.85 local auction mart, where they have been loading, ATV maintenance and safety, lambs, lambed 1.79 and sold 1.76 per topping the market for their respective hoof care, sheep health and technical ewe. This year, the early lambing ewes breeds. knowledge. have scanned at 1.85 and the outside Since last September, Woodhead Bros The 730 Scotch Mule ewes on the farm, ewes at 1.89. have been paying a premium of 20p/kg which is managed on a day-to-day basis The first two draws of lambs are sold for Beef Shorthorn cross finished cattle by farm manager, Andrew Robinson, and straight off their mothers. After weaning, which meet the company’s specification, a shepherd, Andy Mckie, are crossed with heavier lambs are wormed and kept on and 10p/kg for Aberdeen-Angus crosses, Suffolk rams with all progeny finished on clean grazing aftermath near the farm to supply quality beef for Morrisons’ new the farm for Morrisons. Finished lambs while lighter lambs receive a flukicide Traditional Beef range based on native are processed by Morrisons’ meat and are grazed on clean pasture after breeds. processing subsidiary, Woodhead Bros, second cut silage further away from the Cattle weighing 260-380kg deadweight at Turriff, Aberdeenshire. main steading. Lambs are sold at 18.5 and grading R and U for conformation This year, 230 ewes are being lambed – 19kg deadweight and most grade at and up to 5L for fat cover, qualify for the indoors from March 1 as part of an early least R for conformation at 3L fat cover. premium. lamb production trial and the remaining All lambs are away before Christmas. NSA Scotsheep 2012 is shaping up 500 lambed outdoors from April 1. The The farm is all grass except for 50 to be one of the best ever since the first Suffolk ewes were lambed in January acres of cereals which are crimped for Scotsheep more than 30 years ago. and high performance rams are used to feeding to the cattle. This year’s crop will Don’t miss it! produce rams for the commercial flock. be spring barley as water-logged fields All lambs are currently finished prevented the sowing of winter barley and replacement ewes bought in but last autumn. q consideration is being given to the introduction of different native breed sires offering good maternal traits, such as milkiness and mothering ability, to breed replacement females. A sire producing a slightly smaller ewe might also enable ewe numbers to be increased. Ewe management The management of the ewes is designed to achieve a high lambing percentage. Ewes are flushed for a month before tupping and five teaser rams are used to encourage ovulation. Ewes run with the rams for two cycles plus five days and any not proving in lamb are culled. The flock has the run of the farm over the winter with access to the freshest grass but hay or silage is fed if they look like losing condition.

MARCH/APRIL 2012 11 NSA Honours Past CEO

eter Morris, Livestock Development Manager at VION Food, and immediate past CEO Pof NSA was presented with the 2011 George Hedley Memorial award by the National Sheep Association at an industry dinner in London on the 14th February. The annual award is given to an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to the UK sheep sector. It is an extremely prestigious award within the sheep sector and is made following a lengthy proposal and voting process involving organisations from across the entire sector. National Chairman John Geldard, commented “during Peter’s term in office he had to deal with many contentious issues and serious disruptions to the functioning of the industry such as His Grace The Duke of Montrose presenting the George Hedley Memorial award to EID, the 2007 FMD restrictions and Peter Morris then the Blue Tongue threat. As well as demonstrating his great capacity bestowed this honour upon Peter. He to master the detail of issues, he worked tirelessly during his time as CEO, I’m honoured to consistently showed a determination to always with the very best interest of the find the very best possible way forward sector at heart. Peter steered both the receive this award from for the sheep sector. His work ethic and Association and the sector through some his communication skills earned him particularly challenging times and he an organisation which the respect of those who worked with never shied away from the often difficult continues to do a huge him, whether in Government, industry job in hand. His ability to negotiate at organisations or practical farmers. We the very highest levels, along with his amount of good work are absolutely delighted that the industry outstanding knowledge of grass roots, for sheep farming and has chosen to recognise all of Peter’s was of enormous benefit to the sector.” efforts by bestowing this honour upon NSA CEO Phil Stocker, added “the the sheep industry as him”. George Hedley dinner has pulled together a whole. It is vital that Past Chairman of Council Jonathan many of the leading figures in the sheep Barber, who was Chairman during some sector. Evenings and events like this are all links of the lamb of Mr Morris’s tenure as CEO said ‘It is so important for the sheep industry as wonderful that NSA and the industry has the success of sheep farming is all about supply chain work together to ensure we produce high- quality products for the consumer, and the NSA plays a valuable role in promoting best practice and closer cooperation throughout the chain people, and any opportunity to put the right people together in the right place at the right time as the George Hedley does can only do good.” NSA President, His Grace The Duke of Montrose presided over the evening, and made the award to Mr Morris. q

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MARCH/APRIL 2012 13 Wool Prices Still Strong by Jonathan Long

heep farmers supplying the up as a result of the Board having a firm A number of leading carpet British Wool Marketing Board reserve policy and a strong positive cash manufacturers, both in the USA and UK, (BWMB) will be pleased to hear flow which means they don’t have to have signed up to help with this push, Sthat once again BWMB fully sell,” said Mr Corbett. including Axminster, Brintons, Stanton, expects producer returns to rise again in “The Board must strive to ensure the Godfrey Hirst, Stark, and Karastan. 2012, explains BWMB chairman Malcolm high level of support it receives from CfW’s French launch will take place Corbett. sheep farmers continues in future.” at French trade show Premier Vision in “Last year saw wool prices maintain “It’s a unique organisation and you only March, with a focus on the use of British their steady increase which had gathered have to examine the rest of the industry Wool in the production of top quality pace throughout 2009 and 2010 and this to see its value to sheep farmers. Our Tweed for the fashion industry, she year looks set to see prices rise again, wool price is the highest in Europe and adds. although by more modest levels than we we have a board. Our milk price is one of “These new activities are of course have seen in the last two seasons. the lowest in Europe and we don’t have on top of the existing and ongoing work “We expect prices to be about, on a board.” of CfW in many countries across the average, 30p/kg up on 2011 rates, And, with the New Year now firmly world, including important markets such another welcome increase in the value upon us and spring quickly creeping as Japan, where 35 companies have of wool. This increase is of course due round the corner plans for this year’s signed up to support CfW, and Germany to the continuing worldwide declining Campaign for Wool (CfW) activities are where 11 windows of Galleria Kaufhof production of wool and an increasing now well advanced, with many new featured the exhibition. Holland, Spain demand for wool products from all parts countries joining in this year. and Norway also saw heightened activity of the world, including the emerging Among these new countries where in 2011 and across the globe more economies of China and India.” increased exposure will be given to and more companies are signing up to While the increase in price this year promoting wool products are the USA, support the valuable work of CfW.” may seem modest compared to previous China, Italy and France, all of which All of this new and ongoing CfW activity years Mr Corbett says it is better to will see CfW launches in 2012, explains is of course tremendous news for wool have a modest increase than any more Bridgette Kelly, CfW consultant. producers, with massive interest being dramatic price movements. “Wool prices “For 2012 a heavy focus will be placed generated in wool and wool products, have risen quite significantly in recent on the interiors market, with the aim of explains Ms Kelly. “Every opportunity years and any more sharp upward price increasing use of wool floor coverings must be taken to capitalise on this new movements would have had a negative and furnishings and in turn stimulating found interest in wool to ensure the impact on the volumes we could sell. demand for British wool. This is an excellent promotional activities result in “Manufacturers are already finding the important sector for the British market, higher wool prices and a solid foundation market difficult with continuing economic with most British wool destined to for the future of the industry.” uncertainty meaning many consumers become carpet.” q are unwilling to make larger, expensive purchases, such as carpets and other woollen interior products.” What is clear though is that these price rises are the result of the competitive auction system operated by BWMB to sell members’ wool. “There have been some recent sales where clearances have only been at 50%- 60%, but importantly the prices have held

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MARCH/APRIL 2012 15 No longer an Island

hil Stocker discusses the NSA MacDonald ‘red tape review’ and we position regarding disease now hopefully have the opportunity to control and traceability move regulation (albeit more slowly than Pand outlines the latest on we would all like) more towards being Schmallenberg Virus. risk based and proportionate to the risk Schmallenberg virus is a stark reminder involved. that our status as ‘an island’ is only relative. Whether we were ever entirely Objectives protected because of that island status First and foremost we have to protect is debatable but now, more than ever, our health and disease status as far as we have to recognise that the protection we possibly can. provided can only go so far. So called • We should take all reasonable exotic diseases such as Blue Tongue and measures to prevent disease from Schmallenberg are primarily transmitted reaching our shores by insects, midges, and mosquitos, and • We should do whatever we can to weather patterns are such that they can promote health and resistance/ be blown across the channel depending immunity to disease within our flocks, on insect activity and weather conditions. and Protecting our stock from foreign disease • We must have a plan and a system to such as Foot and Mouth disease from manage disease out if it arrives further afield should be more within our Maintaining effective disease control but with global movements of surveillance, testing and monitoring is people, products, and food being so essential. This way risks can be forecast common place this risk is only as good and we can prepare for monitoring as the controls that are in place. and surveillance. This is the case with We know from experience that one of Schmallenberg and producers can the biggest areas of risk to the success quickly be informed of the symptoms of the sheep sector, either in terms of and encouraged to support testing and production or that of markets, are health monitoring. and disease problems. They can affect is the future we are faced with. This is Ensuring effective import controls, production suddenly as in the case of why the NSA is investing heavily in this and controls relating to personal travel Schmallenberg potentially affecting 25% topic and it is why we have given support around the globe is important too, and of an affected farms annual production, to a national movements database for changing regulations so that the ‘ need’ and disease can immediately result in sheep. I realise that our position is not for illegal meat imports is negated (such the closure of export markets such as universally popular with members but I as Smokies). during the Foot and Mouth outbreaks of also feel strongly that any opposition to You can argue that the two above the 2000’s. Rebuilding those markets our stance is borne more from our not activities are very much a responsibility of after closure can take time and with the communicating effectively why, and the Govt – they are steps to protect public emergence of new export opportunities on what basis. I also fully understand health and economic activity and they such as the Japanese market we know that this discussion is happening at a are covering risks that are way beyond that they are looking for assurances time when many sheep farmers are still the producers responsibility. Then you and contingency plans to give them reeling from the practicalities of EID come down to more farm related issues confidence in us as a trading partner. and the view of many is if we cant get such as good management to promote Disease outbreaks can decimate EID to work and there is no appetite for health and resistance and effective domestic market confidence too, yet any tolerance, then why on earth are we controls and records so that in the case in the absence of an export market the pushing down another traceability route of a disease outbreak movements can domestic market is crucial. with little confidence in the equipment be immediately traced and firewalls put or any leniency from the regulators. in place. This way we should be able to Defra budgets There is no shortage of farmers who stamp out disease outbreaks and even Whether we like it or not there is no are experiencing first hand the risks maintain export trade due to evidence of doubt that the public purse is going to of complying with EID requirements in movements and disease free status for be tighter and one of the results of this relation to their wider CAP income. ‘regions’. is that there will be pressure on public With difficult issues such as this it is money going to animal health issues important to be clear about what we Movements including compensation surrounding need to achieve. The detail can then The NSA’s support for a movements disease outbreaks. Defra is predicting be defined and at the same time given database is with the aim of the protecting that its budget relating to animal health a reality check . The regulatory burden our flocks, our trade, and our success. and disease will reduce by nearly 20% that has been placed on farmers in the Where does individual identification fit between now and 2014/15. This is not past has undoubtedly been too heavy with this? Well that’s a good question and a scenario the NSA is supporting but we and has not been efficient - that was I would suggest that once a movements have to be realistic and accept that this the accepted logic behind the Richard database is in place individual it should

16 SHEEP FARMER become an outdated requirement as the process. With a ‘live’ movements This whole process is going to be should be the need to identify sheep database all biosecurity and disease challenging and difficult for some farmers before they leave the holding. There is a controls should move towards being risk – the NSA understands this but if we are separate case for individual identification based, an example is the replacing the to maintain a strong and resilient sheep of sheep but that is one of personal current six day standstill with thorough sector, and if we are to maintain the choice relating to farm management. In effective separation and quarantine practical/technical and social diversity the event of a disease outbreak all that processes on farms (essential for flock that has been such a large part of our is needed is knowledge of where sheep protection and cost control anyway) sheep culture in the UK we have few have moved from and to and whether they resulting in no automatic requirement for other options. have been in contact with other stock in a standstill. q Quality Finishing Vital

urrent euro exchange rate Steve Powdrill. “At the same time, marking uncertainties make it more “Under these circumstances, holding representative groups of stock and important than ever to finish onto store lambs for too long in pursuit weighing them every seven to 14 Cstore lambs at the right of improving spring prices and extra days provides a useful extra check specification for the market to ensure weight is likely to be more risky than on progress. This can be particularly the best returns, warns EBLEX National ever this season. valuable in presenting the even batches Selection Specialist, Steve Powdrill of lambs by both weight and finish that Tight lamb supplies globally and strong Tight margins buyers prefer. demand for sheep meat from mainland “The fact that most of the weight gain “Regardless of their weight, once Europe mean UK market prices, which in heavier lambs is in the form of fat, lambs are fit across the loin they should depend so fundamentally on exports at which takes markedly more energy to be marketed as soon as possible.” this time of the year, are likely to hold-up put on than muscle, makes the risk of Up-to-date market intelligence is a key well in the immediate term. keeping stock too long particularly high; to ensuring the best returns from store However, recent exchange rate especially so with the very tight margins lambs. This can be secured through volatility is likely to make export buyers involved in most finishing systems,” he regular communication with livestock more cautious and discerning, putting says. markets and abattoir procurement the premium on lambs of precisely the “A smaller eye muscle area than staff and by using the EBLEX on-line right weight and finish for the markets either cattle or pigs means lambs can deadweight and auction market price they serve. very quickly become overfat. This and reporting service. “While continental export markets the notorious difficulty of predicting Details of EBLEX events and other have a wide range of specifications, it store lamb performance makes it vital practical guidance on store lamb is important to appreciate that market to handle stock frequently to assess the finishing and selection for slaughter can options for lamb carcases decline level of finish – at least every fortnight be obtained from www.eblex.org.uk markedly at weights of over 21 kg and and then every week as they approach classifications beyond 3L for fat,” says market quality. q btsadv.com

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24/7 Support and information. The call is free from a land line. Check in advance with your Mobile Operator if you will be charged. Join us on Facebook! Controlling Chlamydial Abortion

nfectious abortion is a major flock health problem faced by sheep farmers and has a significant impact Ion production. Chlamydia abortus (C. abortus) is the most commonly diagnosed infectious cause of abortion in sheep in the UK and accounts for 44% of diagnosed cases. The disease Abortions due to C. abortus typically occur in the last few weeks of pregnancy. The first indication of disease is often a stillborn lamb two to three weeks prior to the expected lambing date but infection can result in full-term stillborn or weakly lambs and it is not uncommon for an affected ewe to produce a dead lamb and one or more live lambs.

Aborted lambs and placentas from Image © Moredun 2012 Aborted lambs and placentas from infected ewes are heavily contaminated with C. infected ewes are heavily contaminated abortus and are a danger to other sheep and to humans with C. abortus and are a danger to other sheep and to humans. already carries a degree of infection or is which aim to be safer, offer better If susceptible ewes come into contact in an area where there is a lot of infection protection and cost less. with this infective material early in vaccination may be a wise option. pregnancy, they may lose their lambs, Treatment or the infection may remain latent (silent) Control During an active outbreak of chlamydial until the following pregnancy when Two commercially available vaccines are abortion, treatment with long-acting abortion may then occur. Ewe lambs available to control chlamydial abortion oxytetracycline (20 mg per kg body born to infected ewes may also become in the UK. Both are live vaccines based weight) will reduce the severity of infected and can abort in their first upon the same attenuated (weak) strain infection. For greatest effect it should be pregnancy. of C. abortus; given at 95 to 105 days of pregnancy. A Ewes which have aborted due to C. • Enzovax® produced by MSD animal second injection two weeks later should abortus become immune and will not health reduce losses further. However, some usually abort again due to this cause. • CEVAC Chlamydia® produced by ewes will still abort and many may still The key to diagnosing C. abortus CEVA Animal Health Ltd excrete infectious organisms at lambing infection is to submit aborted lambs with Current vaccines are effective in time. their placentas to the local veterinary the control of chlamydial abortion but laboratory for investigation. Your own abortions in vaccinated flocks still occur. The risk of human infection veterinary surgeon may also advise While some of these cases are the result Chlamydia abortus poses a significant submitting blood samples from ewes of the reduced effect of vaccination risk to the pregnant woman and her that have recently aborted. on previously infected ewes, Moredun unborn child. Pregnant women scientists identified some cases that should avoid all involvement with Keeping your flock free could be due to the vaccine strain. lambing ewes and should not handle Two possible ways of controlling the Despite this Moredun’s advice to farmers contaminated clothing from those introduction of the disease into your remains unchanged: working with lambing ewes or new- flock is to either: • When abortion occurs isolate the ewe, born lambs. Immuno-suppressed or • obtain replacement ewes from EAE- collect diagnostic samples and work immuno-compromised individuals must free accredited sources or with your vet and local veterinary also avoid contact with potential sources • to keep a closed flock. investigation centre in England and of infection at lambing time. The infection-status of the flock can Wales or disease surveillance centre Dr Nick Wheelhouse is a senior only be established by carrying out a in Scotland to establish the cause research scientist working on chlaymdial blood test on a proportion of the sheep • If you have a chlamydial abortion abortion in sheep at the Moredun (seek veterinary advice on how to set this problem continue to vaccinate as Research Institute near Edinburgh. If you up). If a flock is clear of infection then this is the most effective means of would more information about controlling it is important to buy in replacements safeguarding your flock chlamydial abortion, including a free 12 are from a safe source. This is best Moredun Scientists are working page newsheet, please contact Maggie achieved by entering the flock into the towards improved diagnosis, recognition Bennett at The Moredun Foundation, Premium Health Scheme run by the of latent infections, and developing the phone 0131 445 5111 or visit their SAC’s Veterinary Services. If the flock next generation of chlamydial vaccines website www.moredun.org.uk q

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18990 Fasimec Duo Ad 210x297.indd 1 02/03/2012 10:34 Anthelmintic Resistance in NZ By Sarah Grantham

nthelmintic resistance is a used as a quarantine drench as it has current or historic problem on an average of 99.9% efficiency. In New the majority of sheep stations Zealand its use has partly replaced double Athat I visited in New Zealand, and triple dual active drenches, and its during the month of my Novartis Animal integration into worming programs is in Health/National Federation of Young turn helping prolonging the life of such Farmers’ Clubs Scholarship. products. It is generally accepted that New New Zealand’s sheep health plans Zealand has an anthelmintic resistance historically have differed very much from problem that is greater that that suffered those in the UK. In the UK veterinary by the UK and that if the UK act now to advisers recommend that animals should manage resistance we may avoid the only be treated when there is evidence situation faced by many New Zealand of a worm burden or in a quarantine farmers. situation. This is in order to stop the The reasons behind the New Zealand overuse of medicines. resistance situation are many and varied. In New Zealand, with vast sheep Some farmers believe that Government stations running for many kilometres agricultural subsidies helped fund with thousands of animals, this sort of the overuse of some anthelmintic selective treatment was not historically compounds which were considered considered to be a viable option. Sheep to be effective at the time. When these and cattle are brought in to the stations subsidies were withdrawn in the 1980s, only two or three times a year which agriculture went through a hard period of means that any treatments or preventative restructuring, and it was at this point that medicines need to be given then. The veterinary advisers and farmers started Picture 1 stock units on these farms are high, so to realise there was a significant problem bringing sheep into handling pens many with failing anthelmintics. At this point farmers is Icebreaker, which is a major times a year is not cost effective. existing products were reformulated into buyer of Merino wool, and manufacturer These days more and more farmers double and triple dual active drenches, of sports garments. are making use of their vets and animal and introduced to the market as a The company has a forum to which all health advisers to implement faecal egg solution to these problems, but overuse of its clients are members and are able to counts, where they are able to establish again began to make these products debate and communicate with breeders whether drenching is needed, and if so ineffective. across New Zealand. I think this is one of what type of drench should be used. the winning tools for education that they Cross grazing have in New Zealand. Farming systems With the rise of anthelmintic resistance In New Zealand I was in awe of the farmers in New Zealand started adopting Advances in worm control handling systems there. Cattle yards what became a popular method of worm Many of the farmers I spoke to say the had basic but impressive systems that control called cross grazing. advances in wormer technology have put thousands of animals through quietly While the majority of farms that I visited been essential for the New Zealand sheep and calmly (picture 1). There were similar called themselves sheep stations, they industry, most notably the introduction structures for sheep systems (picture 2). usually also had several thousand cattle. of the fourth generation of anthelmintics, I found that every station I visited With cross grazing, the cattle are made to known as 4-AD or orange drench, and were very reliant on their feed handling follow the sheep in their grazing patterns marketed as Zolvix. systems. across the station, and are believed to The compound works by killing the The picture above (2) shows the act as “hoovers” to absorb early stage nerve endings in the worms only found handling system at Richard Subtil’s farm, sheep parasites. Because of the sheer in sheep, and has an impressive safety Omarama Station on New Zealand’s size of the stations they are also able record. In the UK, Zolvix is commonly South Island. The system holds around to leave areas of pasture ungrazed for long periods which is another method that came into use. This method can be If the UK acts now to difficult to implement on stations that are not fully fenced. manage resistance we may Education and information I found many of the farmers that I spoke to were well informed and understood avoid the situation faced by the worm lifecycle. One of the companies engaged in information programmes for many New Zealand farmers

20 SHEEP FARMER 1,500 sheep and has wide holding pens narrowing down to a single file channel, which leads up a slight incline towards the weight crate and draughting system. Both Omarama and Bluff stations used Pratley Systems. Omarama station had a three way electronic, draughting and weigh system, which I was told had paid for itself within the first year. It is easy to use and cuts labour time in half. The electronic weigh system works by setting different weight regions on each door of the crate. This enables sheep to go into different holding pens for different weight categories. In New Zealand all lambs to sell are kept in weight category mobs. This means that they can control weight gain more effectively. The weight of the sheep going through the crate is recorded and stored for future monitoring of weight gain. Feed I noticed throughout my travels that Picture 2 all lowland high production pasture is described by feed content. Farmers retain the moisture within the soil, and in their country was harsh, however they know what feed value pastures will prolongs the grass growing season in the believe that it has helped improve their give, how long they can feed the stock summer months. It keeps a high yield, agriculture into a forward thinking and for and how many stock units they can and a good bulk within the pasture. By high quality industry. accommodate. also using direct drilling it keeps the cost When talking about the legislation we The most commonly used fodder crop down compared to ploughing, working have in the UK they cannot believe what is lucerne, a high protein crop, desirable down and drilling. Many of the pastures we are expected to do. Tagging individual to both cattle and sheep. I was surprised that they are drilling are also inaccessible sheep was laughed at continually. They to see the lack of cereals grown. Most to large bulky machinery. do feel we are fortunate to still have good fertile ground is used for pasture, but options for the control of worms and an more recently has been turned into Conclusion opportunity to manage anthelmintic vineyards. Although there was a lack of While visiting the farms in New Zealand resistance before it runs out of control. cereals, there isn’t a lack of ground work and talking to the farmers, it was The differences between New Zealand done. In the more arid areas of the south interesting to hear their questions about and UK agriculture are great, but ideas island, grass is grown in the spring, UK agriculture. Many asked about about healthcare, marketing and welfare and then burnt off with chemicals after subsidies and whether we still had can be exchanged to enhance the the first graze. This is then direct drilled them. New Zealand farmers feel the farming industries of both countries. again eight weeks later. This helps to way subsidies were stopped suddenly q

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MARCH/APRIL 2012 21 Grasses to Suit Job in Hand

owing newer grass varieties will boost pasture performance and increase production says SEBLEX Livestock Scientist Dr Liz Genever. This year grass seed prices are likely to be much higher than they have been for some time due to low global supply. Do not let this put off any re-seeding Recommended Grass plans, as the benefits of introducing new, improved varieties will still far outweigh the cost. and Clover Lists This year it is even more important to choose the right grass seeds mixture for the job that needs doing. With the shortage of seed, decisions need to be made early and orders placed sooner rather than later.

Assess existing leys Go out and walk across the fields and see how much of the previously sown species still exist, and how much weed grasses have taken over. The target is for 70%. As soon as this falls below 50% it is likely that re-seeding will give yield and quality benefits First select the type of grass to produce a ley that will do what is needed – ie produce high quality silage or consistently good grazing over the next five years. About 80% of the grass sold in the UK is perennial ryegrass, but other types such as timothy, cocksfoot, tall and meadow fescues can have important roles in beef and sheep pastures.

Table 1. Long term grazing ley Duration 7 years plus Uses For intensive grazing with sheep and beef cattle Type kg/acre Intermediate perennial ryegrass 5 Late perennial ryegrass (diploid) 7 Most producers will be aiming at testing can use the data collected on Timothy 1 medium to long term leys, with some yield, feed quality, disease, persistence White clover (medium leaved) 1 grass cut for silage or hay. Including and seasonal growth patterns in the Total 14 clover in the mix will boost feed quality lists, so try to buy from companies who and reduce the need for nitrogen contribute to the Grass Levy Scheme, as Notes fertiliser. they will be the best informed. • A blend of small and medium leaved clovers could be used, especially with Pick varieties carefully Example seed mixtures sheep Selecting varieties comes after These example grass seeds mixtures • All late perennial ryegrasses could be choosing the type of grass. Use the have been adapted from an IGER used Recommended Grass and Clover Lists, leaflet by independent grassland • 0.5kg of chicory could be added in for which offer independent assessments consultant Charlie Morgan, and are for sheep grazing of the top varieties from all the breeding demonstration purposes only. • For beef grazing, remove timothy and add companies, updated annually. Your merchant will be able to guide more PRG Only merchants paying levy towards your decisions further. Please ensure the

22 SHEEP FARMER grasses and clovers selected are on the launch of the 2012 Recommended to register on 0870 609 1840 / 01904 Recommended Grass and Clover Lists. Grass and Clover Lists takes place on 771211 or email [email protected]. The annual ‘Re-seeding Day’ and 1 May at Headley Hall, Tadcaster, North org.uk Yorkshire. q Table 2. Medium term cut and graze Speakers will discuss when and how to ley re-seed, the differences between varieties Table 4. Short term ley for dry areas Duration 5-7 years and choosing the right mixture. Call Duration 1-2 years Uses 1-2 silage cuts and grazing Uses Frequent silage cuts and grazing Table 3. Red clover ley Type kg/acre Less need for nitrogen, plus good Intermediate perennial ryegrass 4 Duration 2-4 years (new varieties 4-5 protein levels Late perennial ryegrass years) Type kg/acre (tetraploid) 3 Uses 2-3 silage cuts with aftermath Italian ryegrass 7 Late perennial ryegrass (diploid) 5 grazing Festulolium 7 White clover (medium leaved) 1 Type kg/acre Total 14 Total 13 Hybrid ryegrass (tetraploid) 6 Notes Notes Intermediate perennial ryegrass 4 • Festulolium is a cross between IRG • Select varieties with similar heading dates Red clover 2 or PRG and meadow or tall fescues – • A blend of medium and large leaved white Total 12 developed for better rooting system clovers could be used Notes • Reduce proportion of festulolium if • Persistent hybrids could be included at • Select varieties with similar heading dates drought risk is low or winters cold up to 3kg per acre and replace some of • Red clover seed rate could be increased • Add hybrid ryegrass – with 1/3 HRG, 1/3 the PRG (up to 30%) but be wary of clover IRG and 1/3 festulolium • Timothy is optional (up to 1kg per acre) dominance, especially in second cut • Select varieties with similar heading dates

DEFY DROUGHT with deep rooting leys

01608 652552 cotswoldseeds.com Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions from livestock: a global research perspective

ollowing a great introduction into the issues associated with UK agriculture and climate change Fin the last issue of the Sheep Farmer it seems an ideal opportunity to provide an insight into some of the international research work which is being carried out looking at ways of reducing greenhouse gas emissions from livestock production. Of the three main greenhouse gases the focus of agricultural research is mostly on nitrous oxide and methane as these are the most important (and potent) gases produced from livestock production. As expected New Zealand is putting a large amount of effort and funding into finding ways of reducing greenhouse gas emissions from its livestock sector. Due Lambs being acclimatised before entering chambers for measurement of their methane to the importance of agricultural exports emissions to identify high and low emitters (AgResearch, NZ) to its economy it could be expected that agriculture would be under less scrutiny that there is a need to engage in this produced per kg of lamb) however agriculture is responsible area with a £12.6 million investment for 49% of the total greenhouse gas budget into the area of greenhouse These examples provide just a brief emissions from the country so there gas emissions from agriculture. With overview of the work which is being carried is a need to tackle the issue in order this international approach to reducing out both in the UK and internationally. to meet targets signed up to as part of methane and nitrous oxide emissions the Maintaining and improving soil carbon the Kyoto protocol (and to maintain its following examples providing a snapshot levels is also an area of interest for ‘green’ image). NZ has however taken a of these activities. livestock systems particularly grassland very internationally focused approach in farming. There is also a large amount of responding to the challenge of reducing New Zealand effort being put into better techniques for emissions. • Development of a vaccine to reduce measuring methane and nitrous oxide methane emissions and how these gases are accounted for Global Alliance • Application of nitrification inhibitors in the national inventories against which In December 2009 the ‘Global Research to grassland to reduce nitrous oxide national changes in greenhouse gas Alliance on Agricultural Greenhouse emissions from cattle urine patches emissions are measured. Gases’ was launched. The Alliance • Identification and selection of sheep Whilst the issues surrounding livestock is designed to increase international that are naturally low methane production and greenhouse gases are cooperation and investment in research emitters not at the forefront of our minds as activities to help reduce greenhouse gas sheep producers this is an issue which emissions from agricultural production Australia isn’t going to go away. Engaging with whilst still helping to meet food security • Reducing methane emissions by the policy makers and supporting the requirements. New Zealand is a leading supplementing feed with dietary fats research which aims to reduce emissions country in the Alliance with support • Breeding cattle for improved feed whilst maximising agricultural production provided through a $45 million budget. efficiency should therefore be supported regardless This approach acknowledges that • Soil management strategies to reduce of our individual views on climate the pressure is to deal with livestock nitrous oxide emissions change. emissions on a global level and that Catherine Nakielny works as an collaboration is the most effective UK Independent Sheep Consultant and sits means of progress. No longer is there • Breeding grass species to reduce on the NSA Welsh regional committee. talk about whether British lamb has a methane emissions and nitrogen Catherine is currently undertaking a lower carbon footprint than NZ lamb - losses (e.g. high sugar ryegrasses) Nuffield scholarship looking at ways of we need to demonstrate to both retailers • Development of supplements to reducing methane emissions from the and consumers that lamb as a product, reduce methane production from the sheep sector without compromising is environmentally sustainable. This is rumen production and can be contacted at vital to maintain market share against the • Using genetic improvement in sheep [email protected] or 01558 other cheaper meats. to reduce the intensity of methane 685 808. DEFRA too has also acknowledged emissions (the amount of methane q

24 SHEEP FARMER UK Becomes Net Exporter of Lamb

he UK has become a net exporter Ireland both increased by around two sheep meat producer, the largest in the of lamb, according to new figures thirds year-on-year. EU and third in terms of global trade published by EBLEX. In 2011 behind only Australia and New Zealand. Tsheep meat exports from the UK Third countries “While becoming a net exporter of saw an 11 per cent increase on the year, Significantly, exports to non-EU markets lamb is a significant milestone for the totalling 98,500 tonnes product weight. for the period were up 41 per cent year- industry in the UK, exports remain largely During the same period, UK sheep on-year at 5,800 tonnes to destinations limited to trade within the EU with non- meat imports fell 13 per cent to 88,000 such as Switzerland, Norway, various EU exports for the period representing tonnes product weight. Product weight African states including South Africa and five to six per cent of the total. imports have exceeded exports for the Congo, Hong Kong and other Far East “The key challenge in terms of lamb vast majority of the last 50 years. markets. exports remains access to target markets The rise in exports last year was mainly Further growth in non-EU markets is such as China, North Africa, South Africa, driven by very strong demand on the also expected to drive an overall increase Russia, the USA and several Middle East continent with a number of EU member in sheep meat exports in 2012. markets. Population growth and growing states increasingly looking to the UK. Peter Hardwick, head of trade affluence is presenting new opportunities Exports to France accounted for 60 development at EBLEX, said: “Figures for exports in developing markets in per cent with an increase of 3.1 per cent for 2011 show that the UK has become a particular but these simply cannot be volume. Shipments to Germany and net exporter of lamb. The UK is a major exploited without market access.” q

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MARCH/APRIL 2012 25 sheep farmer.indd 1 09/02/2012 15:09 Sustainable Control of Parasites in Sheep Faecal Egg Counting (FEC)

aecal egg counts (FECs) are options are: treated at the best time for maximum being used increasingly by sheep • Loosely gather the mob into the benefit. An FEC must, however, be farmers and are a very useful corner of the field for a few minutes , interpreted with care. You need to know Ftool if applied and interpreted then sample when they walk away OR details of the age of the sheep, system correctly. • When shepherding first thing in the (e.g. creep fed, stocking density) and morning, take samples as lambs the pasture history. The presence of What is a FEC? stand up as they often create parasites such as Haemonchus on the An FEC provides a count of the number droppings as they move. This also farm greatly influences the results. A FEC of worm eggs in sheep dung samples. ensures that no ewe faeces are must not be done in isolation, it should It is expressed as ‘eggs per gram’ (epg) picked up by mistake. be part of a worm control plan. and gives an estimate of the of the worm burden in a group of sheep. FECs are not How can FECs be used? Tests the efficacy of a treatment a diagnostic tool. They are for monitoring There are 3 main reasons for using FECS (Drench Tests and FECRTs) purposes only and must be interpreted on farms. An FEC taken at the correct number of carefully, with knowledge of the group of days post treatment (2-LV +7 days; 1-BZ sheep sampled and the pasture they are Helps to determine the need to treat and 3-ML +14days), is an indication of on. Most labs will require 10 individual When farmers use FECs to help them how well the drench has worked. If it samples, and usually these are carefully decide whether to treat sheep, it reduces has been fully effective, then the egg combined in the lab, assessed and unnecessary treatments but, just as count should be 0 (in practice <50). An reported as a ‘mob’ result. importantly, ensures that lambs are FEC done pre-treatment will increase the It is vital that samples are taken value of the Drench Test because you correctly. They must be fresh, (less than know what the epg was initially. one hour old at collection) and kept cool (not frozen) in an airtight container Provides information on the amount of or plastic bag, before examination or contamination going on to a pasture. delivery to the laboratory within 48 Regular FECs also tell us about the level hours. If the faeces are older, some eggs of contamination the sheep are putting will have hatched and the egg count will on to the pasture, helping for example to be lower and misleading. The sheep decide whether to wean lambs to lower sampled must be healthy and have had risk areas. full access to pasture and/or feed before Look for more SCOPS information on sampling otherwise the FEC will be our new website www.scops.org.uk difficult to interpret. The best sampling q

26 SHEEP FARMER THE BREED SOCIETY DIRECTORYad - sheep farmer3x4.5cm:Layout

Wiltshire Horn Easy Care Sheep Society THE WOOLLESS MEAT SHEEP The Way Forward No wool, no shearing just excellent quality meat. Tel: 01407 840250/07788 585309 Tel/Fax: Secretary: Mrs C Cormack email: [email protected] 01768 341124 Tel: 0844 800 1029 www.easycaresheep.com email: [email protected] www.beltex.co.uk www.wiltshirehorn.org.uk

SOUTHDOWN ILE DE FRANCE Charmoise the traditional, modern terminal sire The breed to meat your grades Hill Sheep Society For 3L’s use an Ile de France • HARDY Hill Sheep Details from the Secretary: • Add SHAPE to your prime lambs Mrs Gail Sprake Tel: 01986 782251 Lean, Liveweight & Lively lambs • EASY Lambing For details of your local breeders call [email protected] www.iledefrancesheep.co.uk • Terminal Sire suitable for web: www.southdownsheepsociety.co.uk Tel: 01904 448675 tupping EWE LAMBS Secretary Edward Adamson Please contact David Trow Tel: 01686 688234 “The breed that makes ends meat” www.meatlinc.co.uk Tel: 07711071290 www.charmoisesheep.co.uk

to Perform all year Blackface North of wer roun Po d Sheep Breeders’ England Association Information on the breed and sale dates Mule Sheep available on our web site or from:- Association Aileen McFadzean, Tel/Fax: 01738 634018 Email [email protected] F www.scottish-blackface.co.uk ast Growing Lambs THE ORIGINAL & BEST MULE PD & DH Sheep ROUGEROUGE www.hebrideansheep.org.uk Breeders’ The easy lambing terminal sire (Bluefaced Leicester x Swaledale or Hebridean Sheep are enjoying Northumberland Type Blackface) producing quick growing lambs with Agriculture House a dramatic return to popularity. excellent meat to bone ratio. For full Auction Mart Sales List Acland Road Contact: Secretary: Sue Archer Contact Marion Hope Dorchester DT1 1EF HEBRIDEAN SHEEP SOCIETY Tel/Fax: 024 7654 1766 Telephone 01387 371777 Tel: 01305 262126 01908 611092 www.dorsetsheep.org email: [email protected] e-mail: [email protected] www.rouge-society.co.uk Old Breed for New Times website: www.nemsa.co.uk

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MARCH/APRIL 2012 27 CLASSIFIED

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