SCOTSHEEP 5 JUNE 2024

Scotsheep is a biennial event organised by NSA (National Sheep Association) Scotland and will be the most important specialist event in the calendar for sheep producers in Scotland and North of England in 2024.

Organised by the Scottish Region of the NSA, NSA Scot Sheep 2024 will be held on Wednesday 5th June 2024, at Aikengall Farm, Innerwick, Dunbar, East Lothian, where the Hamilton family (James, Charles and Harry, along with their mother Vanessa and their late father John) moved in 1998, from Dykefoot and South Cobbinshaw in Lanarkshire.

The 2024 event will follow the successful format developed over recent years and will include an extensive trade stand area with over 160 commercial and educational trade stands, 32 sheep breed societies and 11 individual breeder and companies trade stands/demonstrations; farm tour; comprehensive seminar and workshop programme; educational and working demonstrations; sheep dog trial; show and sale of pairs of ewe hoggs; fencing, stockjudging and NSA Next Generation Shepherd of The Year competitions as well as inviting schoolchildren from local schools in the East Lothian area to attend through the Royal Highland Educational Trust.

The Hamilton family farm a combined total of 5250 acres across six units near Innerwick, Dunbar, which are a mixture of tenanted, contract farmed and owned. With some 2800 breeding ewes and a hefty herd of cows, this stands the family in good stead to host the event at Aikengall.

The homestead, as it were, is the 1900-acre Aikengall which is home to a 1400-strong flock of Blackface ewes as well as 900 spring-calving cows with Simmental genetics featuring heavily in the females which are crossed to Charolais, Lincoln Red and Aberdeen-Angus bulls. This Blackie flock is split in two with 700 bred pure while the remainder are put to the Bluefaced Leicester ram to produce replacement Scotch Mules for the tenanted Nunraw, which lies just over the hill but is 14 miles by road.

Managed by Harry, the flock of 1400 Mules at Nunraw are in a high input, high output system with the aim of selling 1200 Texel-sired lambs before the Royal Highland Show in late June, with the remainder weaned in July and sold thereafter. Just next door lies *Stoneypath* where they have recently taken on contract farming 156 red dear hinds and 40 Luing cows over 350 acres, and with the two farms sharing a march fence it couldn’t be more ideal.

From the hill at Nunraw, looking to the coast you can see the 600-acre arable unit, Barney Mains, which is run by Charles who grows spring barley and a variety of vegetables and fodder, allowing for a handy bartering system with the brothers for grain, straw, grazing and manure.

The natural environment is treated as an equal enterprise on the farm with various stewardship schemes, latterly Scottish Rural Development Programme (SRDP)/ Agri-Environment Climate Scheme (AECS) having played a significant role in the development and improvement of infrastructure and habitats on the predominantly upland unit at Aikengall.

As well as this, Aikengall also hosts Aikengall Wind Farm with Community Wind Power Ltd which became operational in 2009, comprising 16 Vestas V90 wind turbines. These wind turbines have a tip height of 125 metres, and each has a generating capacity of 3MW, generating enough electricity to power approximately 31,500 homes and based on displacing around 54,200 tonnes of Carbon Dioxide per annum.

See www.scotsheep.org.uk

TEXELS GEARING UP FOR UK 50TH "TEXTRAVAGANZA" 5-10 JULY

The UK Texel Society’s plans for its International visitors joining its 50th Anniversary celebrations are progressing well with over 20 delegates currently confirmed - 15 from Uruguay, 2 from Chile and 5 from Netherlands. Others are expected from Mexico, Ireland and elsewhere.

Details of the programme are as follows:

Friday 5th July Attendees travel up to Cumbria

Saturday 6th July Attend National ‘Textravaganza’ Show

Sunday 7th July Day at leisure - Visit Edinburgh

Monday 8th July Visit to SRUC, Easter Howgate & AB Europe

Tuesday 9th July Travel to Flock Visit(s) arranged by Texel Sheep Society

Wednesday 10th July Attend the Great Yorkshire Show

The technical workshop at SRUC coordinated by the Society brings together Texel breeders from UK and Uruguay, with common ground. Both UK and Uruguayan Texel Societies work with their country’s research institutes in multi national research projects, between SRUC and INIA Uruguay, along with NZ and Ireland, focused NetZero and methane reduction.  A visit to AB Europe will follow this workshop, with flock visits as the delegation travel south to Harrogate. Whilst the breeders also have an opportunity to visit a National Show of Texel sheep held in Carlisle, followed by a visit and reception hosted by the Society at the Great Yorkshire Show

 For further information, please contact:

Ailish Ross

Events Manager

The British Texel Sheep Society Ltd

Unit 74, 4th Street

Stoneleigh Park

Kenilworth

Warwickshire

CV8 2LG

( +44(0)2476 696629; *: office@texel.co.uk : texel.uk

LOOKING AHEAD TO EUROTIER 12-15 NOVEMBER

EuroTier, the world's leading trade fair for animal farming, reaffirms its status as the largest event in the sector with 2,000 exhibitors from 51 countries already confirmed for this year's edition. Pre-pandemic, EuroTier 2018 boasted over 153,000 visitors and 2,500 exhibitors at 260,000 sqm in 16 halls.

Alongside the strong interest from the industry, EuroTier is renowned for bringing together industry experts, innovators, and stakeholders from across the globe to showcase the latest advancements in animal farming, exchange valuable insights, and explore collaborative opportunities.

The theme of this year's EuroTier is 'We innovate animal farming,' which will feature an international specialist programme on the current developments in cattle, pig, and poultry farming. Professionals can learn how the latest technologies – especially AI and robotics – and new barn concepts help to address today's challenges, improve animal welfare and energy efficiency, and reduce emissions.

In collaboration with our partners, British Livestock Genetics & UKTAG will be organising a British Livestock pavilion in Hall 11, close to the renowned "Top Tier Treff," a gathering of leading breeding associations worldwide.

The substantial UK presence at EuroTier provides British farming and breeding organizations with a global platform to showcase their expertise. Participating in EuroTier at a joint pavilion stand offers a unique opportunity for British entities to expand their networks and leverage the event's global reach. This strategic investment can yield long-term benefits for their growth and success in the industry. Interested enterprises are invited to contact Richard Saunders for details on participation. E: richardsaunders1965@yahoo.co.uk M: 07901768904

NEW BRITISH CATTLE BREEDERS CLUB CHAIRMAN ANDY KING

Introducing new British Cattle Breeders Club Chairman Andy King

It is a great honour and privilege to have been elected chairman of the British Cattle Breeder’s Club for 2024-25. The year ahead is built on the outstanding and hugely successful conference that took place in January under the chairmanship of Ben Harman and the immensely hard-working and talented committee.

I experience a mixture of ‘excitement’ and ‘apprehension’ as we navigate the conference planning stages. However, I have a sixth sense that the British Cattle Breeders Club will deliver in a thought provoking and positive manner the message that cattle breeders are crucial in delivering food security as well as having a positive influence on environmental stewardship.

Cattle breeding, from fundamental research to practical nutritious food delivery relies on a multi-disciplinary family, or as Ben Harman stated last year ‘a Village’.

Within the cattle sector we are expected to continue to push the boundaries of efficiency and judicious use of natural resources that may or may not be replenishable. The farming community has continuously been challenged to ‘produce two from where we used to produce one’ but now we can also add ‘produce better and tread more lightly’ whilst we are doing so.

Regeneration is recognising the need to put things right and within cattle breeding we have to protect, maintain and develop all the tools in the toolbox that allow our farmers to continue to farm resiliently in diverse systems that protect the natural capital that is the farm.

Part of our way forward is to look at the future herd both in terms of the farmed cattle and those that are farming them. Technology is starting to deliver benefits in cattle management beyond simple labour saving, especially in the areas of health management and production monitoring.

Where are we going in terms of AI? Now no longer just our historic cattle breeding terminology but developing artificial stockmanship. Do our cattle have traits that are more positive leaning towards artificial management.

Finally, we have to support and promote diversity and the protection of the gene bank as key tools our researchers and scientists use to understand and develop traits needed for future cattle generations.

I would welcome and encourage anyone with an interest in cattle breeding and genetics to join us at the conference from whatever their role in the industry is. As a club we are continually looking to inspire and promote the future generation of cattle breeders and the conference provides a unique backdrop to network and meet new friends and old.

I look forward to meeting you at the conference in January 2025.

BBC LANDWARD FEATURES UK SHEEP EXPORTS TO USA

The latest edition of BBC Scotland Landward has presenter Cammy Wilson highlighting the export of North Country Cheviot sheep genetics from the UK to the USA. Featured is Caithness breeder Andrew Polson who has had embryos collected by AB Europe for export to fellow American breeder Martin McQueen in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Virginia. A most positive news piece in the context of UK sheep exports to the US. Please click on the following link (circa 11 mins 22 seconds in)

https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m001yf0t/landward-2024-episode-3

 Thanks to American-based export consultant, John Wilkes, for sharing. E: johnwilkesusa@gmail.com

MARY MEAD AWARDED HUK LIFETIME ACIEVEMENT AWARD

MARY MEAD AWARDED HOLSTEIN UK’S LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD 2023

It was with great pleasure that the British Cattle Breeders Club welcomed Holstein UK’s President Andrew Jones to present Mary Mead of the Lakemead Prefix with Holstein UK’s Lifetime Achievement Award during the annual conference dinner in January, at Telford.

Mary Mead pictured at BCBC 24

Mary and her husband Roger started farming in 1961 in the Yeo Valley where they formed the Lakemead herd of British Friesians.  A closed herd with genetics that can be traced back multiple generations.  All replacements are bred from their best cows and artificially inseminated with carefully selected British Friesian semen, both from their own and other well-established herds. Mary has always been a keen supporter of pedigree breeding and has derived great satisfaction from providing breeding bulls to the major AI companies with semen, also for export.  She is a firm believer that there is a black and white cow to suit all systems of farming within the Holstein UK open Herd Book.

Andrew Jones said ‘It was a privilege and an honour to present the Lifetime Achievement Award to Mary, a cornerstone of this industry for over 60 years.’

The BCBC President Duncan Sinclair added ‘There can be no doubt that this Lifetime award is richly deserved for Mary’s outstanding contribution and passion for the British Friesian breed both at home and her influence on the breed around the world. Her commitment, energy and willingness to challenge, support and advise on all cattle breeding matters is legendary, be that discussions with her fellow farmers to world leading geneticists. I am sure this award from her peers will take pride of place amongst the many others she has gained over her distinguished farming career.’

Holstein UK's Lifetime Achievement Award recognises individuals who have dedicated at least twenty years of service to the Holstein and/or British Friesian breeds. The award represents the ultimate honour for those who have made noteworthy contributions to the Society unassumingly.  Mary is one of three recipients to receive the prestigious award for 2023.  To read Holstein UK’s full report visit holstein-uk.org/news/holstein-uk-announces-lifetime-achievement-award-winners

LATEST AHDB DATA ON GENETIC TRENDS IN BEEF SIRES USED ON DAIRY COWS

Genetic trends in beef sires used on dairy cows

We estimate that, in 2023, over half of the prime beef animals finished in the UK had a dairy dam. This means that breeding decisions made by dairy farmers are having a huge impact on the beef industry. Below, we explore what this means in practice.

The beef sires chosen by a dairy farmer must be ‘easy calving’, but there is increasing interest in selecting these sires for other traits, which will increase the value of the dairy beef calf.

Our National Beef Evaluations use data from the British Cattle Movement Service (BCMS) and a national network of abattoirs to produce Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs) – a measure of the genetic merit – for five carcase and three maternal traits for all breeds and crossbreds.

They are grouped into native (most common breeds: Angus, Hereford and South Devon) and continental (most common breeds: Limousin, Simmental and British Blue) types to reflect the different genetic backgrounds.

To understand the changing selection in beef sires, we looked at the average EBV for dairy beef calves born between 2001–2021 and their sires. We can then compare this to the suckler beef calves over the same period.

Days to slaughter

Calves that finish more quickly cost less to rear, so breeding for a reduced days to slaughter is highly desirable for finishers.

These graphs shows that the average days to slaughter EBV for suckler beef calves and their sires (light and dark blue lines) have improved steadily over the last 20 years.

In the past, the genetic potential for days to slaughter of the dairy beef calves (green lines) was poorer than the suckler beef calves. However, since 2014, the improvement in suckler calves and sires is dwarfed by the massive improvements recorded in dairy beef.

Although, in the past, the genetic potential of dairy beef calves was poorer than their suckler-bred counterparts, this is no longer the case. This is due to the huge improvements in beef sires used on dairy cows.

If this trend continues, we expect dairy beef calves to have the genetic potential to finish more quickly than their suckler counterparts.

Carcase weight

For beef animals generally, a heavier carcase is desirable as payments are based on kilograms of the cold carcase weight.

For native sires, we do not see much change in calves from dairy herds between 2001–2016 (green line). This is quite different to the trend seen in the native sires and their calves in suckler systems (light and dark blue lines), where the genetic merit for carcase weight increased by 7.6 kg over the same period.

Since 2016, the average carcase weight EBV of native sires used in dairy herds (red line) has increased by 3 kg, although it remains lower than that of native sires used in suckler systems.

For continental sires, we see comparatively little change in both dairy and suckler performance. Before 2011, the average carcase EBVs for continental sires used in dairy herds (red line) were increasing. However, this rate of increase has slowed and there has been very little change since 2011.

A key aspect to this trait is its unfavourable correlation with birth weight and calving ease. Selecting a beef bull with a good calving ease will remain a top priority for dairy farmers; this will limit improvements in carcase weight. This is particularly clear in the trends for native sires, which are often used for their good calving.

These native sires used in dairy herds have a much lower rate of improvement for carcase weight than those used in suckler herds.

What is driving this selection?

Many dairy farmers make use of genetic tools, such as AHDB’s herd genetic reports, to help breed high-quality replacement heifers.

When it comes to the selection of beef sires, there is similar data available through artificial insemination (AI) companies, pedigree breed societies and our National Beef Evaluations. However dairy farmers have generally not been incentivised to breed beef calves with good carcase traits, so beyond calving ease, we don’t expect the average dairy farmer to be selecting beef sires according to their carcase EBVs.

However, these results show that genetic progress is still being made.

There may be several reasons for this, including the progress by pedigree farmers who breed these beef bulls, but also the prevalence of integrated systems, which enable collaboration between beef processors and AI companies. This ensures that the available beef sires will produce the type of calves that the finishers and processors need.  

Key messages

Although the genetic merit for carcase traits of dairy beef calves was, in the past, poorer on average than suckler beef calves, this is no longer the case.

This is likely due to strong selection, particularly for reduced days to slaughter in the beef sires available from the large AI companies.

If you are buying dairy beef calves, you can use AHDB’s National Beef Evaluations to look up their sire to give an idea of their genetic potential.

EUROTIER 12-15 NOVEMBER - EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

The UK livestock industry is planning a joint British Livestock stand at EuroTier, Hannover, Germany 12-15 November 2024.

All cattle, sheep and pig societies/associations are welcome to be part of the event against a contribution of £500 or £1,000 towards costs - for full details please click HERE - as are breeding (AI & ET) businesses. The stand is being organised by the British Livestock Genetics (BLG) consortium. Expressions of interest please by 31st March to Stand Manager Richard Saunders E: richardsaunders1965@yahoo.co.uk M: 07901768904

SYNETICS UK LAUNCH

New AI Company Synetics UK replaces Mastergen and increases product range 

 Cattle breeding company, Mastergen, has been transformed for 2024 into a new company with a new name and an increased and more diverse portfolio of genetics.  

Synetics launches in the UK in 2024

Now called Synetics UK, the new name reflects the joining of forces between Mastergen’s original German parent company, Masterrind, and the French genetics giant, Innoval/Evolution. Through their formation of the export arm, Synetics Export, these two major European co-operatives trade over eight million doses of semen across 80 different countries, now including through Synetics UK. 

This means that UK farmers now have access to the most diverse line-up of European sires ever available. This includes not only a strong line-up of Holsteins (including red and whites) but a total of 20 different breeds – both dairy and beef. Amongst these are familiar names such as Limousin, Charolais, Blonde d’Aquitaine, Normande and Salers alongside those which are less mainstream, such as Bazadaise, Gascon, Parthenaise, Abondance and Tarentaise. 

More French and German bulls breeding heifers like this VG 2yr daughter of Solito Red EX92 will be coming to the UK through Synetics UK

Particular strengths are beef breeds specifically developed for use on dairy, most notably the INRA95 and Yperios Excellence, which are currently topping UK beef markets and are unique to Synetics’ breeding programmes. 

Seven different dairy breeds are also part of Synetics’ portfolio, including those suited to the increasingly popular extensive systems, while three breeds of goat are part of the package. 

Alison Dunphy, managing director of Synetics UK, says: “The entry of the parent company into the domestic market has significantly upped the European genetics offering and diversity of bloodlines for UK producers. 

“The formation of Synetics UK ensures UK farmers have access to genetics from the two major European breeding programmes,” she says. “The combined force of Masterrind, (the market leader in Germany), with Innoval/Evolution, (the biggest AI company in France), brings the services and bull portfolio to UK producers, from two major farmer co-operatives working with over 13 million cows. 

“The research investment behind these organisations has led to the development of Europe’s most advanced genomic testing facility and its highest standards of semen quality. 

“This investment has also allowed unique genetic traits to be developed, including paratuberculosis or Johne’s resistance, which we are already finding enormously popular within herds dealing with this disease,” she says. 

Other features include polled bloodlines for every breed and a wide selection of bulls transmitting a high degree of digital dermatitis resistance. 

Despite the uptick in the company’s genetic offering, Ms Dunphy says the values of the former company will remain enshrined in Synetics UK. 

“As a company, we have built our reputation on value for money, without the overhead of expensive reps on the road, and we will continue with this business model under the Synetics UK banner,” she says. “Our telephone support is readily available and is growing in popularity amongst the many commercial beef and dairy producers who are looking for cost-effectiveness, while continuing to enhance their herds’ genetics.” 

SYNETICS UK CONTACT DETAILS

Tel: 01823 430317

Email: enquiries@synetics.co.uk

Web: www.synetics.co.uk

 Address: Unit 5, Monument View, Chelston Business Park, Summerfield Ave, Wellington,

Somerset, TA21 9ND

BRITISH CATTLE BREEDERS CONFERENCE 22-24 JANUARY

The countdown is on for the British Cattle Breeders Club conference being held in Telford, Shropshire 22-24 January 2024, a two-day event for the beef and dairy sectors.

The theme of this year’s conference is “Green Genes - revolutionising cattle breeding for a sustainable future” with this year’s BCBC keynote presentations bringing together farmers and academia to understand how this can be achieved. BCBC Chairman, Ben Harman, adds: “We can adapt our breeding and management practices by making the best use of science and technology to improve animal efficiencies and reduce emissions. This will also drive business profitability.”

 View the full programme and book your place online www.cattlebreeders.org.uk/conference 

BRITISH TEXEL CELEBRATES 50 YEARS IN 2024

The British Texel Society celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2024 with a programme of activities planned for July. It is keen to invite committed advocates of British genetics from overseas to its national show and extended programme for flock visits to existing and  prospective importers of Texel genetics. The Society has much to celebrate, having achieved so much in the last decade and across the half a century it has existed, a short timeline when considering breed societies and breeds of major influence.

 The programme is expected to include a visit to leading AI/ET companies, along with a splash of sightseeing in between the stunning Scottish Borders and North Yorkshire with the visit culminating at the Great Yorkshire Show.  The provisional programme is set out HERE.

Part of the programme of events that fits best for international visitors starts on the 5th July and runs through to 10th July, with our National show “Textravaganza II”, on the 6th July, held in Carlisle,  the second major show held separately to the usual Royal and County shows. Preceding the national show is a clubs competition day, summer sizzler bbq reception, with flock visits progressing from the 7th through to the Texel members Great Yorkshire show reception, that takes place after the Texel show classes on the 10th July. 

The Society held its inaugural National show in 2021 with great success, with over 200 exhibitors and over 400 members, family and friends making up the audience. We expect the 50th anniversary event to have an increased attendance, making for an ideal opportunity to invite prospective buyers of British Genetics, the society providing hospitality and direct access to Texel breeders eligible to export and the technical companies involved. 

The flocks visits culminate at the Great Yorkshire Show, where overseas visitors can experience the glory that a major English County show offers, with all types of livestock and farming practices promoted,  combined with another large Texel show and an invite to our Members reception in our own marquee, where over 100 members and friends have met each year for over 40 years in conjunction with our Northern Area Texel breeders association. 

The programme is rich in tradition, and offers visitors a great opportunity to share in the breed’s success, celebrate the society’s 50th anniversary, with a backdrop promoting all that is great about the GB and English livestock sector. W: www.texel.uk E: office@texel.co.uk

WINTER 2023/24 EXPORT BULLETIN OUT NOW

Welcome to the latest Winter 2023/24 edition of the Livestock & Genetics Export Bulletin. Please click HERE to read. We are always looking for news items on British livestock (breeding animals) and genetics (semen/embryos) - either news of exports from the UK or news of how these animals are successfully breeding in their new homes overseas. Please send any news (pictures and text) to Richard Saunders Email: richardsaunders1965@yahoo.co.uk. Thank you and Season’s Greetings to All.

ESSIE SUFFOLKS REACH GEORGIA

Thanks to The Scottish Farmer for the following article which appeared in print in their 28 October 2023 edition. www.thescottishfarmer.co.uk

More than two years after Aberdeenshire Suffolk breeder Irene Fowlie exported the first sheep to Georgia, she has defied all odds and sent a double load – by air. Such is the demand for genetics from her high index performance recorded Essie flock from Fraserburgh, that the buyers of the first importation requested another 70 breeding females and three shearling rams soon after their foundation purchase.

However, despite having an Export Health Certificate and the flock being scrapie monitored and MV accredited for years, Irene and her husband Jim had to jump through hoops before the sheep were given permission to travel a second time.As in the initial export, the couple had to wait a good year to get a second deal up and running when Defra refused to allow a permit for the sheep to be transported by road on welfare grounds.

Furthermore, after months of licence requests, health certificates and screeds upon screeds of other paperwork sent to various international heads and veterinarians, they found the only way they could travel was by air – at a hefty cost of £800 per animal.The buyer of the first importation, the Adjara Group LLC – one of the most prestigious group companies in Georgia involved in hospitality, gambling and agriculture – was more than willing to cough up the cost of a second load which arrived on Saturday morning following three separate flights.International livestock haulier, Andrew Ewing transported the Essie sheep down from the farm to Stansted on the Thursday – just hours ahead of Storm Babet which caused major travel disruption in the north-east – with Irene and Jim following them down to the airport to wave them off.

The couple also got to see them transported onto the hold of the cargo plane which had to be air conditioned and maintain a temperature of between four and eight degrees C.

"It was just an amazing experience seeing the sheep being transported onto the plane and what they were travelling in on the aircraft," said Irene, who was blown away by the care and consideration of cabin crew who carted the sheep from the lorry into specifically designed wooden crates that had been made in Holland, to be lifted onto the plane.

"We spent months negotiating a deal with a Spanish transport company with two stops on route, only for Defra to block such movements on welfare grounds which just seems crazy when eastern European countries are desperate for British genetics.

"We discovered the only way they could travel was by air as it saved having to go through each Border Control post, but even then the paperwork to get the sheep to Georgia is unbelievable," said a highly relieved Irene once she heard the sheep had arrived safely.

"A certificate of origin and EOR number had to obtained before we could consider transport and even then Georgia wouldn't send an import permit until they had received all the veterinarian health certificates which they had to have within 24hours of the sheep leaving the farm."

Irene also had to make up a 'seating plan' for the sheep on the plane to ensure their weight was evenly distributed when the load comprised gimmers and ewe lambs of various weights ranging from 55-100kg and three shearling rams.

Initially the sheep had to travel down to Stansted via a road transporter with a Type 2 Licence and satellite tracking, complete with travel log and customs documentation. From these valuable sheep transported in crates, flew to Masstricht in the Netherlands and soon after departed for Istanbul in Turkey. After a few hours stop over, they flew onto Georgia and their new home in Tibilisi.Georgia has a very old sheep industry with sheep bred for wool, cheese making and meat. With the purchase of pedigree Suffolk sheep, The Adjara Group also hopes to promote the breed throughout the country for its superior growth and meat characteristics.

Speaking on Radio 4’s Farming Today Programme on 1st November, Irene Fowlie added: “Native Breeds in Georgia tend to be bred for milk, making cheese and for their wool, and they need a meat breed - and as Suffolks are well known for very fast growth and good conformation, they wanted to set up a foundation flock of Suffolk sheep to improve meat breeding sheep in the country.” Please click HERE for the full programme.

You can also follow ESSIE SUFFOLKS on Facebook for further news

KAZAKH OPPORTUNITIES FOR UK GENETICS

KAZAKH OPPORTUNITIES FOR UK GENETICS

The British Kazakh Society (BKS) in cooperation with UK Department for Business and Trade (DBT) hosted an agri-business webinar on Wednesday 5th October 2023, with speakers from Kazakhstan and the UK, moderated by Rob Grinnall, UKECP (UK Export Certification Partnership). With a focus on promoting the export of UK livestock to Kazakhstan, the speakers discussed the importance of quality genetics and the benefits of genetic diversity as well as highlighting the investment opportunities in this field in Kazakhstan.

The panel comprised:

-          Dave Skeels, Director, British Kazakh Society

-          Tatyana Blazhiyevich (UK DBT, Agricultural Lead)

-          Kalzhan Agrynbay, Project Manager, KazInvest, Astana who spoke on ‘Why Kazakhstan.’

-          Henry Sanderson, International Sales Manager, Cogent Breeding Ltd, Chester, whose topic was ‘Genetics for the future.’

-          Indira Beishova, Doctor of Biological Sciences, Head of the Genetic Laboratory of WKATU (West Kazakhstan Agrarian-Technical University), who summarised the projects being undertaken in researching livestock production

-          Kevin Harrison, Chair of NSA English Committee, National Sheep Association, detailed ‘The importance of genetics and genetic diversity in the sheep flock’ showing how UK sheep breeds could help in all regions of the vast Kazakh farming landscape.                                                                                                 

A recording of the webinar is available to BKS Members on their website. www.bksoc.org.uk

For further information, please contact Rob Grinnall rob.grinnall@ukecp.com

CHARTING THE PATH FOR UKRAINIAN AGRICULTURE

FIELDS OF CHANGE: CHARTING THE PATH FOR UKRAINIAN AGRICULTURE

5th October 2023 saw a conference held in Brussels, Belgium under the banner ‘Charting the Path for Ukrainian Agriculture’ attended by the UK’s Chris Jackson (UKTAG – UK Technology for Agriculture & Genetics) and Rob Grinnall (UKECP – UK Export Certification Partnership) with the event co-funded and organised by UCAB (Ukrainian Agribusiness Club) and AGCO, a global company, serving as a link between the agricultural product and manufacturing value chains.

AGCO’s Richard Markwell addressing the meeting

Market Access is a key area with a focus on the livestock and germplasm required to assist Ukraine in its post-conflict rebuilding. Both representatives spoke to Nazar Bobitski, Director of the EU Office of UCAB, and brought up the enquiry for 30,000 live sheep that has been brought before the UK industry. Despite new certificates previously being negotiated for germplasm, the outbreak of war has stopped the attention required to pass the Export Health Certificates (EHCs) needed for live sheep and goats, cattle or bovine embryos. Comments Rob: “It would seem pertinent and sensible to prepare for the restocking that will be required. I also sense a market opportunity for the UK post-Brexit to agree mutually acceptable EHCs direct with Ukraine especially.”

Participants came from across the EU as well as outside to listen to the financial sector, political figures and agricultural industry who all had interest in the future of rebuilding Ukrainian agriculture. The morning sessions were dominated by banking sector all of whom touched upon the huge need for private and banking investment.  Some USD 60 – 90 Billion is needed in the short term to support and begin the rebuild of the ag sector comprising of both small farming properties and vast agricultural holdings. 

Of course, wheat/grain exports are the major commodity and whilst Ukraine has been a huge world producer, the amounts of grain produced, and the price paid, is extremely volatile.  Without the ability to sell forward, the price achieved can be USD100 per tonne less than that on the world market.  Farms have gone from making a profit to loss due to this huge price differential. With the Black Sea ports being almost closed, grain is being sent overland to eastern EU, but getting across the borders is time consuming and bureaucratic, with queues of 12 days not unusual.

The afternoon was given over to farming companies, who spoke of the promise of grants from the EU, with large sums available at least in theory, but those present did not know of any funding that had actually been reached.  The Ukrainian representative to the EU spoke of how even with her place of knowledge and contact she could not navigate her applicants through the bureaucracy to the relevant people.

With the farmers and workers having left the east of Ukraine, it was difficult to achieve any real industry in that region at this moment, but they were hopeful that the push back would bring more land back into the sector.

Speakers were extremely friendly towards UK involvement and grateful for the UK support so far, but more is needed.

Only small mention was made on the loss of livestock due to the invasion, but repopulation is clearly required. According to the Ukraine’s Ministry of Agrarian Policy & Food, as of 22nd June 2022 the official estimated number of animals killed is 42,000 sheep, 92,000 cattle and 258,000 pigs.  More than 5.7 million poultry have been lost.

There is to be a UCAB meeting in Kiev in December 2023 to explore further.

KAZAKH-UK GENETICS WEBINAR 4TH OCTOBER

The British-Kazakh Society

UK Department for Business and Trade

"Kazakhstan & UK Agribusiness - Genetics"

Wednesday, 4th October, 12:00 - 13:00 (London Time) 

The British-Kazakh Society in cooperation with UK Department for Business and Trade are hosting an agirbusiness group webinar. The event will be chaired by David Skeels (BKS, Director) and Tatyana Blazhiyevich (UK DBT, Agricultural Lead). to register please click HERE.

The webinar will be moderated by Rob Grinnall (UK Export Certification Ltd, Veterinary Consultant).

The panel discussion will be followed by a live Q&A session where you will have an opportunity to  pose your questions to the speakers directly.

The event will be conducted in English with simultaneous Russian and Kazakh languages interpretations available.

Host:

David Skeels - Director, BKS

Tatyana Blazhiyevich - UK DBT, Agricultural Lead
 

Moderator:

Rob Grinnall - UK Export Certification Ltd., Veterinary Consultant

Panel:

Kalzhan Argynbai - KazInvest, Project Manager - "A view at the Agribusiness Genetics from Kazakhstan and possible investment opportunities"

Henry Sanderson - Cogent Breeding Ltd., International Sales Manager - "Genetics for the future"

Indira Beishova - Doctor of Biological Sciences, Head of the Genetic Laboratory of WKATU (West Kazakhstan Agrarian-Technical University) named after Zhangir Khan - TBC

Kevin Harrison - National Sheep Association, Chair of NSA English Committee - "The importance of quality genetics and the benefits of genetic diversity"

Your sincerely,

BKS Secretariat

secretariat@bksoc.org.uk

BRITISH CATTLE BREEDERS CLUB CONFERENCE TO LOOK AT HOW CATTLE FARMERS CAN GO GREENER

The British Cattle Breeders Club conference is returning to Telford in January and will explore why the UK’s cattle industry is part of the climate change solution and how breeding can help meet greening targets.

The industry has pledged to become net zero by 2040, and some national governments are already proposing livestock reductions.

BCBC Chairman Ben Harman

However, there is another, more sustainable solution to meet targets, believes BCBC Chairman, Ben Harman.

He adds: “We can adapt our breeding and management practices by making the best use of science and technology to improve animal efficiencies and reduce emissions. This will also drive business profitability.”

This year’s BCBC keynote presentations will bring together farmers and academia to understand how this can be achieved. 

These include:

• Professor John Gilliland, farmer and special adviser for AHDB, will talk about the Accelerating Ruminant Carbon Zero (ARCZero) project that he is leading. The project comprises seven farms in Northern Ireland that are undertaking carbon audits, including the assessment of carbon stocks within soils and trees, with the aim of identifying where future management can be changed to accelerate their move towards net zero.

• Beef farmer Duncan Morrison, from Aberdeenshire, will reveal how he is running a profitable 240-head suckler herd that is delivering environmental credentials.

• Professor Elizabeth Magowan, from the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI), will present the findings of a recent study that examined how the cattle industry can reduce its greenhouse gas emissions at a farm and national level.

• Professor Alice Stanton, clinician-scientist, will explain why policymakers and scientists should be wary of reports advocating dramatic reductions or exclusions of red meat and dairy.

• Bjørg Heringstad, a research scientist at the Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) and Geno Breeding, will present the latest results of their green cow project aimed at breeding feed-efficient Norwegian Red cows.

Mr Harman adds: “I am hugely excited about the BCBC 2024 conference. To deliver on my chosen theme of 'revolutionising cattle breeding for a sustainable future' seemed somewhat optimistic.

“Now we are close to finalising the programme, I am convinced that we have assembled a congregation of speakers with the knowledge, passion and brilliance to make a generational change to the sustainability of cattle breeding in the UK.”

 The conference will take place at Telford Hotel and Golf Resort from 22-24 January 2024. The full programme and online booking will be available at the end of September at www.cattlebreeders.org.uk 

SUMMER 2023 EXPORT BULLETIN OUT NOW

Please click HERE for the Summer 2023 British Livestock & Genetics Export Bulletin with all the latest news of export successes and export certification wins!

UK OVINE EMBRYOS ARRIVE IN USA

Following the reinstatement of the Export Health Certificate (EHC) last November, the UK sheep industry has very much welcomed the first export of ovine embryos to the USA. Here we share the Farmers Guardian report written by John Wilkes which appeared in today’s edition of the FG (25 August). There is also an FG podcast available which is a 14-minute extended report on the export including an interview with USA vet Matt Rolleston.

The inaugural consignment of UK ovine embryos arrived in the US on August 16, 2023

Dr Matthew Rolleston, a vet and livestock reproductive specialist in Maine took delivery of 137 UK Swiss Valais Blacknose embryos.

Dr Rolleston says: "We are very excited to have the first import of ovine embryos into the US from the UK."

The shipment exported by UK genetics company AB Europe was made possible by means of US government 2021 animal health legislation. This legislation allows lamb and embryo exports from countries subjected to a 33-year embargo after BSE.

Prior to this first consignment, Swiss Valais genetics originating in the UK could legitimately enter the US as embryos via New Zealand; earning the NZ sheep industry approximately £3 million.

Value

Embryos in this shipment will be marketed through Dr Rolleston for UK breeder/exporter clients. Dr Rolleston says: "I would say Valais embryos in this tank range in value from £2,200 to £4,000 each depending on their pedigree. We estimate this first tank at around £400,000."

This is the beginning for what is hoped to be continuing trade between US and UK sheep breeders. Dr Rolleston is soon to receive his own embryo shipment from UK genetics exporter Farmgene.

Other breeds

He says: "We are looking at Suffolks, Texels, North Country Cheviots, Scottish Blackface, Kerry Hill and Dutch Spotted embryos in that next tank. We should have 400 to 500 embryos in the shipment. In terms of value, they will not be quite the same as Valais; they will probably average £800 per embryo."

The US sheep industry is focused on enhanced genetics to benefit lamb production by way of the Sheep Genetics USA initiative.

Dr Rolleston says: "Within the US Suffolk breed for example, it is possible to establish some new lines for people looking for a different style with extra bone and muscling we see in the UK type. They have been able to achieve this using UK Suffolk semen; some are looking for these traits from embryos."

Charollais

Dr Rolleston thinks the burgeoning US ethnic lamb market could also benefit. "If someone were to establish the UK Charollais breed here, that may make a good cross on some Western flocks to supply the ethnic trade.

"UK embryos can tighten up some genetics sought in existing breeds and allow unique breeds to come over and be sustainable. Pedigree embryos avoid multi-year grading up programs otherwise required to establish a new breed."

ARGENTINA OUTWARD MISSION BUILDS ON EXPORT OPPORTUNITIES

ARGENTINA OUTWARD MISSION BUILDS ON EXPORT OPPORTUNITIES

Main Ring at ‘La Rural’ Palermo Show

• Shorthorn Breed celebrates 200 Years since first Import from Scotland

• Strong Demand for British Sheep Genetics

SHORTHORNS IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Richard Saunders & Tim Riley pictured in front of the Shorthorn stand

 Palermo Show, held in Buenos Aires, Argentina 20-30 July 2023 provided the focal point for the latest Outward Mission to promote British sheep and cattle genetics and identify ongoing export opportunities. With the support of the British Embassy, Department of Business & Trade (DBT) and the Agriculture & Horticulture Development Board (AHDB), the event was attended by Shorthorn Cattle Society President, Tim Riley, together with Richard Saunders on behalf of the British Livestock Genetics Consortium (BLG).

Shorthorns lead the Grand Parade in honour of their 200th Anniversary

Now in its 135th edition, ‘La Rural’ Palermo Show is renowned as an internationally important event bringing together livestock breeders and experts from around the world. It sits with ExpoInter (Brazil) and Expo Prado (Uruguay) as major hubs for knowledge exchange in the Southern Cone.

Statue dedicated to Tarquin

Homage to importer of first Shorthorn bull, John Miller (1787-1843)

 This year saw the Shorthorn breed very much centre-stage, in recognition and celebration of the 200th Anniversary since the first Shorthorn bull Tarquin arrived on Argentinian shores in 1823, thanks to the foresight of the Scottish-born farmer John Miller.

Shorthorn Grand Champion which later sold for £12,000

L-R Richard Saunders, Kirsty Hayes (British Ambassador), Carlos Dawney (President, Argentine Shorthorn Association) and Tim Riley

 Indeed, during a reception held in Tarquin’s honour at the British Embassy, Tim Riley, who runs the Stoneyroyd Shorthorn Herd near Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire, praised the impact that the Shorthorn breed has had not only on Argentinian beef production but throughout the world, with its genetic merit a factor in the development of over 40 breeds globally.

Grand Champions in main showring on final day of Palermo Show

There was a heart-warming moment as three of John Miller’s great granddaughters stepped forward to introduce themselves and pose for photographs with Tim and Richard.

Pictured with three great granddaughters of John Miller

BEEF FOCUS

Whilst Shorthorn cattle have a firm and passionate following in Argentina, Angus nevertheless dominates beef production with crosses and purebreds combining for a 70% market share. Herefords are in second position. The north of the country, with its warmer climes, encourages bos indicus type crosses like Brangus and Braford. Despite the composite breeds indicated, on the whole Argentinian is not a ‘crossing’ culture, preferring purebred type cattle. Simmental, Limousin, Limangus and Wagyu also have distinct populations.

Meeting with Argentine Meat Promotion Board (IPCVA)

 A breakdown of semen sales sees Angus (50%), Brangus (24%), Brafford (15%) and Hereford (5%). Albeit a generalization, cattle are on the whole shorter in stature, larger gutted and lacking the conformation of their European cousins, and it is not surprising that finishing off grass - as found in the large expanses of the Argentine pampas - is key here. Double muscling is seen overall as an undesirable trait and is excluded from herdbook registers.

Angus stand

Hereford stand

 The Argentinian beef population equates to around 52 Million head (beef and dairy combined) of which 30 Million are breeding females (heifers and cows). The 30 Million breaks down into 28 Million suckler cow/calf outfits and 2 Million dairy females.

Bovine Genetic Forum

During meetings with the Argentine Beef Promotion Institute (IPCVA) and Bovine Genetic Forum, there was mutual interest expressed to continue to exchange information and organise future Inward & Outward Missions.

MAG Livestock Market

Sales animals at MAG

A visit was held to the vast MAG (Mercado Agro Ganadero) livestock sales centre near the town of Canuelas where, on a typical market day, 10-12,000 prime cattle go under the hammer including a small number of cull cows and bulls. MAG is home to the offices of around 20 individual auction houses and provides a central venue for each auctioneer to sell their cattle to the processor buyers gathered.

At La Gorina Meat Plant

La Gorina Frigorifico

 La Gorina Frigorifico meat plant was also toured, an impressive facility in terms of innovation, cleanliness and animal welfare. Throughput is around 180 head of cattle per hour which sees 295,000 head processed annually. 20% is destined for domestic customers with 80% going to the export market, predominantly China (71%), Chile (12%), EU (4%), Israel (4%) and Brazil (1%). Cattle are usually processed within 4-5 days and carcase weights reflect the generally smaller frame and lower conformation. Deadweights ranging from 220kg to 360kg were typically seen at an average of around 240kg with typical age of steers at slaughter being 24 months. Large scale investment is underway in packaging and loading automation as well as in the treatment and recycling of ‘red’ and ‘brown’ waste water.

 STRONG SHEEP DEMAND

Thanks to the collaborative efforts by industry at home and abroad, Export Health Certificates (EHCs) have been in place for the export of ovine semen and embryos to Argentina since 2020. There is very strong demand for UK Hampshire and Texel genetics in particular - with Charollais also in the picture. In essence, Argentinian producers want lambs which have better muscling, larger gigots and which can finish quickly and easily off grass.

Lucio Brandi judging the Hampshire Downs

Meetings were held with groups of prominent Hampshire and Texel breeders respectively to discuss their import needs.

Hampshire Down breeders (L-R) Dolores Brandi, Lucio Brandi & Juan Portela

Working together as a syndicate of 12-20 breeders, each breed would like to import a large volume of semen initially (potentially 2,000-2,500 straws) as well as embryos in due course across a range of selected bloodlines.

Pictured with Texel Association representatives Javier Aliendro (President), Daniel Ponce (Vice President) and Pablo Freire (Board Member)

It is hoped that preparatory health testing can be carried out in the UK in early autumn (September 2023) to allow sufficient time to hit the Argentinian breeding season during their autumn (March 2024 in the southern hemisphere).

Sheep lines at Palermo Show

 Health rules around UK flocks having seven-year scrapie monitored status have now been relaxed in Argentina as well as in many (though not all) Mercosur countries so that double ARR/ARR genotyped stock may now also qualify for export. This has the potential to open up export opportunities for many more British and Northern Irish flocks.

Texel Champions appearance in the Grand Parade

There are also large populations of Corriedale and Merino sheep to be found in the southerly Patagonia region chosen for their dual-purpose ability to produce both wool and meat. One of the largest in Estancia Condor, an integrated breeding farm and processor which handles 120,000 per year, where they also AI 6,000 head annually and whose aim is to increase carcase weight by 3kg per lamb. In Patagonia, there is an opportunity for the UK to incorporate meat breeds by crossing them with existing dual-purpose ones, and expand the meat business given wool is coming under increasing pressure from synthetic fabrics.

As an aside, lamb is, on the whole, not generally found in supermarkets or butchers as the custom is to roast whole lambs (25kg l/weight or 13kg d/weight) on the traditional ‘parrilla’ barbecue on special occasions. There is, however, a large export market of bigger spec lambs to the EU, Japan and Israel among others.

There could therefore be an opportunity for knowledge exchange on how the UK deals with butchers and supermarkets for domestic consumption; if there were to be a cultural shift in lamb consumption in Argentina, there might be a bigger market for genetics from the UK. It is worth noting that Argentinians only consume around 0.4kg lamb per capita per year whilst the figure for beef is a whopping 60kg. Perhaps a long-term, game-changing opportunity for sheep in the mould of Tarquin back in 1823…

Gauchos remain an integral part of livestock management in Argentina

CHALLENGES

As in our own country, livestock farmers also face challenges in Argentina. These include drought conditions - hence the recent 2 Million head drop in cattle numbers from 54 to 52 Million - as well as sustainability and deforestation policies, alongside traceability protocols, which many of its export customers are now demanding. There can also be currency issues as permission is required from the central bank to move money abroad, with the paperwork taking up to 180 days.

Closing ceremony at ‘La Rural’ Palermo Show

SUMMARY

Despite these challenges, there is great knowledge of and respect for British genetics – thanks in part to the widespread use of social media – and unequivocal demand for UK-bred sheep. Some ovine semen and embryos have already been successfully exported since the new EHC came into force in 2020 but, with the help of forward-looking farmers and breeding companies, there is great potential to build on this further as long as players in the UK align to make the most of this opportunity. 

Grateful thanks are extended to AHDB, Department of Business & Trade and the British Embassy in Buenos Aires for their support.

RICHARD SAUNDERS, 4 AUGUST 2023