Net register of rams
STOCK AND SALES UPDATE
Net register of rams
on horizon
By Jeremy Hunt
AN internet-based register of breeding rams available from flocks across the country will be launched next month.
Early details of the register, which was conceived by the Charollais and Texel breed societies, were disclosed to farmers weekly this week, although the official launch will not be until early June, as long as the plan is approved by breed societies.
Targeted at early lamb producers and pedigree breeders who would normally be buying tups from the first ram sales in July onward, it will ultimately provide a market place for all breeds throughout the sales season.
The register might also include details of breeding females available for sale, if foot-and-mouth restrictions continue to hit sales.
Jonathan Barber, chief executive of the Charollais sheep society, said it was logical for sheep breed societies to work together. Roughly 8000 Charollais rams are sold each year, 25,000 Texel rams and 30,000 Suffolks.
"Early lamb producers and pedigree breeders are already thinking about securing new flock sires. F&M has had a dire impact on the industry, but we must try to minimise any disruption to next years stock breeding cycle by ensuring farmers can access tups using new technology," said Mr Barber.
Farmers will find the site at www.sheepfinder.com. Those who do not have access to the internet can still find out about available rams by ringing breed societies.
"All breed societies who become involved in this project will be able to handle telephone enquiries from potential ram buyers. Based on the specific requirements of the customer each breed should be able to provide a selection of vendors and details of stock available," added Mr Barber.
Full details of how the concept will work and the name of the internet site will be announced early next month. There will be links to livestock auctioneers throughout the UK, so buyers who prefer transactions by auction sale rules can opt for this.
Steven McLean, chief executive of the Texel sheep society, said the ram register could be a life-saver for the sheep sector which was now moving into next years breeding cycle. "It is also a chance for breed societies to work together, which is particularly important this year," he said.
Acknowledging that pedigree breeders may want a visual aid to ram selection, Mr McLean said a video sale was being considered.
The Suffolk sheep society, which will be involved in the multi-breed register, is also compiling a catalogue of stock for sale which will soon be available on its internet site www.suffolksheep.org to tie in with the first of the societys sales that would have been held in mid-July.
Penny Lawrence, Suffolk sheep society secretary, said: "There will be a catalogue of stock for the mainland UK and one for Eire. Lists will also be available by county or region for both pedigree and commercial ram buyers." *
RAM REGISTER
• Available on internet.
• Help early buyers.
• Must not disrupt breeding.
Charollais sheep society
tel 01953 603335
Suffolk sheep society
tel 01684 893366.
Texel sheep society
tel 024 76 696629