News
New practical guides
The Farm Advisory Service has launched a series of four practical guides. Two of the guides look water margins and biodiversity, one from an arable perspective, the other from livestock. ...
Energy storage
Since burning fossil fuels became the norm following the industrial revolution they have provided flexibility in the supply of energy. Whether for motive power, heat or light; fossil fuel can...
QMS Cattle and Sheep Assurance Scheme
The Quality Meat Scotland, Cattle & Sheep assurance scheme is the longest established scheme of its kind in the world and is now in its 28th year. In order for...
Oilseed rape sclerotinia management
Oilseed rape will start to pull away rapidly now that spring finally seems to have arrived and, in Scotland’s often tight oilseed rape rotations, sclerotinia risk will be important when...
Teat Sealants and Mastitis of Dry Period Origin
As there is increasing pressure on dairy farmers to reduce antibiotic usage and practice selective dry cow therapy (SDCT), the use of internal teat sealants is becoming increasingly important to...
Common Grazings and Sheep Stock Clubs Liability
There is some confusion and ambiguity surrounding the need for both public and employers’ liability cover for common grazings committees and sheep stock clubs. Common grazings committees and sheep stock...
Using thresholds to determine which crops are at risk from pollen beetles
Once crops are at green-yellow bud, there is a risk from pollen beetle damage to the buds, giving rise to blind-stalks with no flowers or pods forming on them. Pollen...
Magnesium Supplementation For Cows
With a lack of grass and a flush of grass to come it is important to remember about magnesium supplementation. Magnesium is not stored and a daily dietary intake is...
Dealing with a Late Spring and Forage Shortages
Grass growth is likely two to three weeks behind normal and many dairy farms are running short of forage, with the added difficulty of getting cows out to grass due...
Women in Agriculture – Argyll – Event Summary
We decided to start the Women in Agriculture meetings with ‘Get the Record Straight’ looking at both livestock record and book keeping/accounts. Record keeping is a hugely important aspect of running an agricultural business.