Scottish Sheep Strategy “Performance for Profit” Workshops

Quality Meat Scotland’s Scottish Sheep Strategy Group is running a series of free “Performance for Profit” workshops over the coming months in the run up to the ram sales.

The workshops, which will take place at six venues around Scotland, will focus on the factors affecting profitability of sheep farming and the impact of ram buying decisions on the overall output of flocks.

In these practical and interactive sessions, there will be the opportunity for producers to look at different rams along with their performance figures.  Participants will then be able to use this information to make an informed decision on the best ram to purchase for their flock.

“There are so many things a ram will do for your flock, so choosing the right one is critical,” said Katie Keiley, QMS Scottish Sheep Strategy Development Officer (South).

“The ram will influence the number of lambs born, the conformation of those lambs, how fast they grow, and the carcase quality of the end product.

“If you are looking to breed your own replacements, the ram will also influence the milkiness of his daughters and how prolific they are likely to be. Most importantly, however, once his genes are in your flock, you will rapidly see these traits multiply.”

Venues:

Tuesday 30th July 2013, W & C Ingram, Logie Durno, Pitcaple, Inverurie, Aberdeenshire, AB51 5EL

Tuesday 27th August 2013, N & G Armstrong, Kirvennie Farm, Wigtown, Wigtownshire, DG8 9DQ

Wednesday  28th August 2013, B Goldie, Townfoot, Mouswald, Dumfriesshire, DG1 4LX

Thursday 29th August 2013, N & D McGowan, Incheoch Farm, Alyth, Blairgowrie, Perthshire, PH11 8HJ

Wednesday 4th September 2013, J Elliot, Roxburgh Mains, Kelso, Roxburghshire, TD5 8NJ

(Plus stand at Kelso Ram Sales, Friday 13th September 2013).

All workshops begin at 7.30pm and there is no need to book a place. For more information, please contact Katie Keiley or Michael Blanche at QMS on 0131 472 4039 or visit the website at www.scottishsheepstrategy.org.uk.