New funding for South West livestock producers

Livestock and dairy producers in the South West can now access 70% grant funding through their vet to combat common health problems.

The South West Healthy Livestock Initiative, set up with £12m of European funding over five years, aims to boost the profitability of the region’s livestock industry by improving animal health and welfare. Projects are now underway to target Bovine Viral Diarrhoea (BVD), Johne’s Disease and respiratory diseases in beef cattle; BVD, Johne’s, lameness and mastitis in dairy cows, and flock health, parasites and lameness in sheep.

“We have been liaising with vets and are now ready to roll out group meetings, diagnostic tests and one-to-one advice with farmers,” said beef specialist Helen Ashcroft. She has arranged a series of beef meetings with leading Northumbrian vet Debbie Brown, in the week commencing 28 February.

For more information contact Helen Ashcroft on 07909 527726 or Duchy College on 0845 4587485.