Forward planning for resilient island livestock systems is the focus of the upcoming Argyllshire Monitor Farm summer meeting, which is now open for booking.
Discussions at the afternoon event, on Thursday 16 July at Craigens Farm, Gruinart on the Isle of Islay, will cover topics ranging from feed resources and re-seeding plans to reflections from hosts, the Archibald family on their four years as Monitor Farmers.
The afternoon starts at 1pm with tea and coffee, with SAC Consulting ruminant nutritionist Lorna Shaw leading the first discussion. This interactive session will look back over the farming calendar with a focus on better planning feed resources and requirements throughout the season and preparing for potential challenges and changes.
Key questions in this session will include: Do we know the key pinch points in the system? What are potential challenges that may arise? Are there solutions in place to reduce impact of challenge? And where do opportunities lie in our farming systems?
Visitors will also discuss planning a re-seed. With a sound re-seeding plan underpinning livestock nutrition from grass, Pat Lambert and Mhairi Dawson from Watson Seeds will discuss the merits of the grass varieties to suit your farm.
To round off, Craig Archibald and the Craigens team will talk about their four years as Monitor Farmers; what has changed on the farm, what they have learned along the way and what comes next for the business. A BBQ will follow, so booking is essential.
Christine Cuthbertson, Monitor Farm regional manager says: “This is our final summer open meeting at the Argyllshire Monitor Farm, and it’s going to be a great one. The discussions on planning feed resources and reseeding will be really practical and forward-looking. It will also be great to hear from the Craigens team about their experience and what they are planning next. I’m looking forward to welcoming everyone to the meeting.”
Car parking is limited so please car share if possible. Please wear suitable outdoor clothing and for biosecurity, clean vehicles, footwear, and clothing before attending. No children under 16 or dogs are allowed.
For anyone travelling to Islay for the meeting, foot passenger transport can be arranged from and to the ferry port on Thursday 16 July, but this must be confirmed when booking your attendance.