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Investing in equipment and livestock can prove costly for the new entrant, but with multiple finance options including hire purchase, contract hire and mart finance available, funding the dream can be achievable.

Whether you are starting up a new business, looking to invest in or expand your existing business, want to consider your options as you approach retirement or are simply looking to improve your businesses performance, preparing a business plan can help.

This factsheet aims to highlight what buyers of cattle and sheep are looking for in the animals coming from farms in the West Coast of Scotland.

Adding alternative livestock enterprises such as deer or pigs to existing sheep and/or cattle farm businesses will spread the financial risk and provide an alternative income stream. Pigs are also a useful addition to arable farm businesses due to the ready supply of grain and straw and the potential for FYM to aid soil fertility.

This technical note offers guidance on heifer management including first calving, nutrition and breeding management.