8th January 2015

Understanding Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs) – Free workshops

Quality Meat Scotland, in conjunction with SAC Consulting, a division of Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC), is offering commercial beef farmers the opportunity to attend three free workshops on Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs).

The three workshops, being held in Dunfermline on 21st January, Turriff on 22nd January and St Boswells on 28th January, are being led by SAC Consulting’s beef specialist team and will help producers gain a better understanding of EBVs and how to select bulls for specific purposes on the farm. Potential buyers will also benefit from the day and the opportunity to work with catalogue figures in preparation for the imminent bull sales.

EBVs provide information on which bulls will breed calves that will maximise returns for the store producer and finisher.

The performance information is available to allow bulls to be chosen for their ability to produce good milky replacement heifers, judge which bulls are best to be used with heifers to avoid calving difficulties and see which bulls are the best to use for beef production.

Johnny Mackey, QMS Head of Industry Development, said the workshops will offer a valuable opportunity for cattle farmers to get to grips with EBVs and how they can benefit their businesses.

“Previous workshops have proved extremely popular and we look forward to more farmers leaving this month’s events with an improved understanding of performance recording and why they should use it as an essential decision making tool, complimenting traditional stockmanship skills, when buying a breeding bull.”

Gavin Hill, SAC Beef Specialist said: “The workshops will allow active participation and so help farmers in attendance gain a better understanding and ability to use EBVs.

“I would urge any farmer thinking of buying a breeding bull, whether it be for maternal or terminal use, to contact the relevant SAC Consulting office and book a place at these workshops.”

Wednesday 21st January 2015

Free Event and Lunch Provided

11am to 3 pm

Halfway House Hotel, Dunfermline KY12 0TJ

To book place please contact

SAC Consulting Office, Perth

t: 01738 636611

e: FBSPerth@sac.co.uk

Thursday 22nd January 2015

Free Event and Lunch Provided

11am to 3 pm

Fife Arms Hotel, The Square, Turriff, AB53 4AE