ARABLE FARMERS should think about introducing sheep onto their farms, according to a new National Sheep Association report.

Launched at this week's Cereals 2017 event, the 16-page document discusses the advantages of having sheep in arable systems, either for grazing short term crops such as stubble turnips or swedes, or longer-term grass and clover leys which may be growing for two or more years.

NSA chief executive Phil Stocker said: “50 years ago sheep were considered highly useful on arable farms. They supported the rotation and helped keep weeds and cereal pests at bay, while adding manure and nutrients following crops could use.

“Artificial fertilisers, herbicides and plant protection products, the specialisation of arable enterprises and the hassle factor of looking after animals, have all been responsible for the sheep sector’s sharp decline here," he noted. "But now the tide seems to be turning as more arable farmers are looking to see how they can bring sheep back.”

The report offers practical guidance on growing crops to feed sheep as well as infrastructure needed like fencing and water, while outlining additional rules and regulations which come with keeping animals.

Case studies in the report demonstrate where sheep are already doing very good things on arable farms across the UK, and offers those considering this option a list of possible business structures which might be adopted and modified depending on individual circumstances.

View the full report at www.nationalsheep.org.uk/policy-work or request a hard copy from enquiries@nationalsheep.org.uk.