Elite ram project set to boost performance

Due to be launched at next week’s Royal Welsh Show, the Elite Ram Project is the latest in a series of initiatives from Hybu Cig Cymru – the Wales-based red meat development agency ─ designed to help improve stock breeding.

Producers will need to complete an on-line training course before becoming eligible for financial assistance of 50 per cent ─ up to a maximum of £400 ─ towards purchasing a premium quality ram for their flocks.

All breeds are eligible but rams will need to be in the top 25 per cent of their breed in muscle depth, scan weight or maternal ability.

HCC hopes that more than 1,000 farmers will take advantage of the scheme this year, which is supported by a £450,000 grant under the Rural Development Plan for Wales.

The initiative follows a similar pattern to the Welsh Beef Quality Improvement Project run by HCC a few years ago and saw beef farmers buying some 325 top-rated bulls.

Research has shown that selecting bulls with superior performance figures can result in an extra £47 per calf. Similarly, using a ram with superior performance figures can result in an extra £3 per lamb.

“The Elite Ram Project is a logical progression of the work we have been doing over the last few years to improve the quality of livestock on Welsh farms,” says Dewi Hughes, HCC’s project executive.

“This is the first time such a project has been launched anywhere in the world and I expect interest from farmers will be tremendous.

“It stems directly from research and conversations HCC has had with farmers and a huge amount of preparatory work has already been carried out to make sure it fits in exactly with the industry’s wishes.

“The long term aim is to assist sheep enterprises meet market demand for high quality finished lambs, providing higher returns and a sustainable business.

“Purchasing a ram with superior genetics will not only improve lamb conformation but they should also grow faster and be ready for slaughter sooner, so reducing the cost of production.”

Farmers will be able to register for the project on-line from home or alternatively at HCC’s stand at the Royal Welsh Show.

Applicants will have to register and complete a bespoke online training programme consisting of 11 questions focussing on selecting rams on performance figures at a new website set up by HCC especially for the purpose – www.eliteramproject.org.uk

To successfully complete the 30-minute quiz a minimum of seven correct answers is needed ─ but there is the opportunity to try, and try again.

Alternative arrangements via HCC are also available for producers without internet access.

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