IN BRIEF
IN BRIEF
• MANAGEMENT of PIC UKs pig recording schemes, Easicare and Pigtales, is to be taken over by computer software specialists, Agrosoft, developers of Winpig software. The consolidation of recording systems will allow creation of a central database capable of delivering up-to-date information to pig producers, says Agrosofts Stephen Hall.
• DETECTION of the BSE prion in brain stem material taken from animal carcasses is now possible, says Reading Scientific Services. The companys Ray Gibson says the test could be used on all carcasses entering the food chain to allay consumer fears about food safety.
• NITROGEN use on grassland has dropped by 25% compared with use in the mid-1980s, says the latest report of the British Survey of Fertiliser Practice. This is due to a reduction in area receiving nitrogen fertiliser and a drop in rates applied. Phosphate and potash rates in 2000 were also 15-20% lower than in the mid-1980s, adds the report.
• WANT to learn about animal homoeopathy? This winter a course is being run by vets and homoeopaths for interested producers. Dates are Nov 21 at Duchy Home Farm, Tetbury, Dec 12 at Abbey Home Farm, Cirencester and at the Royal Agricultural College on Jan 10. Further details of the course, which costs £150, from Chris Aukland (01342-822219). *