What can livestock farmers do to protect their herds from TB at bay? For farmers that are interested in adopting a proactive approach to disease prevention, then an afternoon event to be held on Great Bottom Farm, Raglan, NP15 2LJ on Friday 28 May is a must.
It is being organized by Organic Centre Wales as part of the Farming Connect Organic Development Programme and is suitable for all farmers.
“If you have a sense of resignation or inevitability that the disease is going to strike sooner or later, you might be overlooking steps that you could take to defend your farm against TB,” said Phil Jones of Organic Centre Wales, the event organiser. “This event will deal with biosecurity, quarantine and animal health as well as other practical steps that a livestock keeper can take.”
The event will be held on Graham Probert’s family farm of 95 ha, which carries a flock of 350 lowland ewes, 60 suckler cows and an arable rotation that includes root crops and cereals.
The event will be led by two very experienced vets. Ifan Lloyd MRCVS is an independent vet who has practices in the Swansea area, and Bob Stevenson MRCVS is a local independent vet consultant. Farmers have responded favourably to previous similar events led by Bob and Ifan.
“The Welsh Assembly Government and Wales Chief Veterinary Officer Christianne Glossop have committed substantial resources to tackle this devastating disease,” said Ifan Lloyd. “There are national, regional and local perspectives to the programme with the emphasis on Government and the farming industry working together to control and eventually eradicate this disease from Wales. Farmers must consider measures to keep TB away from their farm.”
The event starts at 1.30 with a presentation followed by a farm walk and refreshments and plenty of opportunity for discussion. Please bring suitable protective footwear and clothing for a short farm walk and tour of some of the buildings. The event is free, but you should register with Phil Jones on 01970 622248 to ensure a place and check the arrangements.
