Farmers to share honest experiences delving into the detail of flock health

Three progressive sheep farmers will share their experiences undertaking investigative testing to determine flock health status next week as the National Sheep Association’s (NSA’s) inaugural Sheep Farmers’ Conference, welcomes farmer delegates from across the UK.

As part of the conference’s seminar line up the farmer speakers, Lorraine Luescher from Dumfries and Galloway, Hayden Woolley from Shropshire and Gwyn Johnson from Mid Glamorgan, will join an interesting discussion led by AHDB titled ‘Attitude and approach; To what extent is sheep health in the hands of an individual?’

Focussing on animal health the conference will assist delegates in improving flock health and farm production with the second seminar of the day exploring issues such as screening of iceberg diseases, antibiotic use and preventative measures such as vaccines. It will be a fascinating insight into the mindset of producers aiming to resolve serious sheep health issues on farm.

NSA is pleased to be joined by three open and honest farmers to lead discussion during the session.

Lorraine Luescher runs 3000 hill ewes on high ground in the Southern Uplands of Scotland. She considers herself to have a good awareness of health issues, use of vaccines and medicines, and non-scientific genetic selection.

Lorraine says: “I have put in a lot of time over the years trying to raise awareness of OPA and other flock health issues and to find solutions and am looking forward to speaking on this at the conference."

Hayden Woolley is keen to ensure he is as aware as he can be on the health status of his flock, aiming to screen all his 4000 sheep in time. “We have already uncovered some unexpected results which is leading us to complete further screening to help us increase our flock health status,” he comments.

Being part of industry projects has helped Gwyn Johnson improve his flock health. Working with Welsh levy board HCC on the Stoc+ project Gwyn focussed on three themes to improve, lamb mortality, lamb growth and issues with liver fluke within his flock of 500 ewes. “My flock is typical of Welsh flocks and my experience demonstrates collaboration is a key driver in improving farm animal health,” comments Gwyn.

The session will be a great opportunity to hear from the farmers on the highs and lows of flock health they have all experienced on farm. It will form just one part of an insightful day at the NSA event with further sessions providing updates on the four UK nations health and welfare policies and the final session of the day welcoming leading names from the industry to explore where money is best spent to promote sheep health and productivity.
 
As well as the headline seminars delegates will be able to enjoy a delicious lunch and chance to join small interactive workshops led by industry experts and browse a selection of trade stands.

Tickets are still available to purchase for the conference that takes place on Wednesday 25^th October at the National Conference Centre, Birmingham. Full details and booking link can be found on the NSA website at www.nationalsheep.org.uk/events/conference.