Livestock

Farmers are being reminded of the risk of botulism this season after soaring fertiliser prices led to an increase in the use of poultry litter on grass crops.

Poultry producers in need of seasonal workers can now apply to the visa scheme after the Government revealed the names of the two official operators.

Faced with variable quality forages and tight stocks, taking steps to maximise intakes and minimise waste at feedout will be crucial this winter.

The 19,434 gimmer lambs on offer at the Farmers Guardian supported North of England Mule Sheep Association show and sale at Hawes averaged 122.35, down 7.69 on the year.

Agricultural levy board AHDB is considering quitting its Stoneleigh Park base in favour of smaller premises, it has been revealed.

A major focus on improving udder health and milking parlour performance at a Welsh dairy farm has reduced herd somatic cell count to under 100,000 cells/ml for the first time in 15 years. Debbie James reports.

Marks and Spencer (M&S) has become the first UK retailer to sell 100 per cent slower-reared and RSPCA-Assured fresh chicken across its UK stores. 

Milking 10 times in seven days otherwise known as 10 in seven, is becoming a popular option for farmers wanting to reduce labour and improve their work-life balance, but how does it work in practice? Ruth Wills finds out.

The Brown Swiss and the Holstein are milked in equal numbers on a small family farm in North Yorkshire and the two breeds complement each other perfectly, according to producer, Emily Bradley. Wendy Short reports.