Scottish Government opens events on winter nutrition and grazing availability to all farmers and crofters across Scotland

In response to concerns that this year’s weather conditions will result in Scottish farmers and crofters facing feed and fodder shortages this winter, Scottish Government is allowing all farmers and crofters open entry to Beef Efficiency Scheme (BES) events scheduled this autumn.

Running from October to early December 2018, these events will provide 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&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 is part of the wider Farm Advisory Service (FAS) which exists to support Scottish farming businesses to remain profitable and sustainable. FAS services include one-to-one support for your business through an Integrated Land Management Plan (ILMP), specialist advice, carbon audits and mentoring services. FAS services are available to all BES and non-BES farmers and crofters. If you are concerned about your business resilience to cope with winter shortages or future changes and would like more in-depth advice for your farm, an Integrated Land Management Plan (ILMPs) and specialist advice will provide you with this tailored support see our website here.

Those already enrolled on to the Beef Efficiency Scheme are required to attend one event this autumn as part of the scheme requirements. Booking is essential.

To book on to an event or for more information, visit the bookings website or contact the FAS Advice Line on 0300 323 0161 or email advice@fas.scot.