LIVESTOCK winter nutrition events originally restricted to Beef Efficiency Scheme participants are being thrown open to all of Scotland's farmers and crofters.
Responding to concerns that this year’s weather conditions have left many businesses facing feed and fodder shortages, the Scottish Government is offering open entry to a series of BES events running from October to early December 2018, providing free advice and guidance to farmers and crofters on how to provide plentiful food over winter, maintain the wellbeing of livestock and optimise beef enterprise performance.
Events will include presentations from SAC livestock experts on cattle nutrition to release genetic potential and optimise beef enterprise performance, as well as workshops on soil and grassland management by independent farming specialists 5Agri.
Advice will cover a range of topics including the importance of soil structure and drainage, sward renewal, upland management, a review of grazing systems, forage crop options, winter feed best practice and yield optimisation.
Event programmes will include Q and A slots and dedicated discussion time so that attendees get the opportunity to ask questions.
NFU Scotland vice president Martin Kennedy said: “Exceptionally volatile weather over the past 12 months has made this a costly and difficult time for all, but farmers and crofters can be reassured that these meetings will provide valuable long and short-term solutions to any emerging shortfalls in feed, forage and fodder supplies.
"Through our 12-week #NFUSHowDoYouPlan campaign, we have urged farmers and crofters to plan ahead; consider alternatives and collaborate. Attendance at these free meetings with industry experts will build on that by providing invaluable help and guidance on how to negotiate what is set to be set to be a challenging autumn and winter.”
Funded by the Scottish Government, the BES scheme, along with the Farm Advisory Service (FAS), are intended to boost the profitability and sustainability of Scottish farming businesses.
To book on to an event or for more information, visit http://besevents.eventbrite.com or contact the FAS Advice Line on 0300 323 0161 or email advice@fas.scot
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