<![CDATA[Stock Talk]]>e9d04654-3b15-5a04-85e3-b96576c79863Fri, 27 Feb 2026 08:31:24 +0000Captivate.fmFarm Advisory Servicehttps://artwork.captivate.fm/b2a082e5-62ed-4c55-b7fd-dc969e03a855/HBBEC7CjdHsw5RzyxNKfpOQi.jpgStock TalkFarm Advisory ServiceFarm Advisory ServiceWelcome to Stock Talk, bringing you all the latest news and advice for livestock producers. Each month, livestock specialists will discuss current issues, opportunities and options for producers. Scotland’s Farm Advisory Service is funded by the Scottish Government. Our podcast covers a range of topics which help support your farm or croft to be more profitable and sustainable. https://stock-talk.captivate.fmfalseepisodicnopodcastJames Orr – Stock Talk HandoverJames Orr – Stock Talk HandoverWelcome to Stock Talk. On today’s episode we hear from James Orr who will be taking over from Kirsten Williams’s role as the host on Stock Talk. James talks about his career highlights as an agricultural consultant at SAC Consulting, his key areas of expertise and Kirsten reflects of some of her favourite projects from the past 20 years.

James looks to continue Stock Talk with more interesting farming stories as well as discussing more technical aspects.

Resources

Livestock Resources -

https://www.fas.scot/livestock/

Poultry Resources -

https://www.fas.scot/livestock/poultry/


FAS Connect -

https://www.fas.scot/connect/



For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

]]>Welcome to Stock Talk. On today’s episode we hear from James Orr who will be taking over from Kirsten Williams’s role as the host on Stock Talk. James talks about his career highlights as an agricultural consultant at SAC Consulting, his key areas of expertise and Kirsten reflects of some of her favourite projects from the past 20 years.

James looks to continue Stock Talk with more interesting farming stories as well as discussing more technical aspects.

Resources

Livestock Resources -

https://www.fas.scot/livestock/

Poultry Resources -

https://www.fas.scot/livestock/poultry/


FAS Connect -

https://www.fas.scot/connect/



For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

]]>9bb07b09-8174-4c66-941c-ee89a518fa05Fri, 27 Feb 2026 08:30:00 +000031:41falsefull410104Gordon Whiteford - Lower Mill of Tynet FarmGordon Whiteford - Lower Mill of Tynet FarmWelcome to Stock Talk. On today’s episode Kirsten is joined by Gordon Whiteford who farms at Lower Mill of Tynet in Banffshire. In 2012, Gordon and June Whiteford began Lower Mill of Tynet Farm. They built an egg business, then a micro-dairy in 2020, selling milk and now ice cream directly from their 24-hour farm shop. They have brought together traditional farming practices with innovative direct-to-consumer strategies and are proud to have won Sustainable Farm of the Year 2024.

Timestamps

01.10 How it all started for Gordon

10.23 Organic hens and starting out with poultry

13.14 Lower Mill of Tynet

15.40 Nuffield Scholarship – Organic

22.16 Brown vs white hens

31.49 Micro dairy – milk and ice cream

48.46 What’s next for Gordon

Related FAS Resources

Organics in Scotland - Lower Mill of Tynet Case Study | Helping farmers in Scotland

Getting Started with Organic Farming – How to Convert to Organic | Helping farmers in Scotland

Managing Grassland Under Organic Systems | Helping farmers in Scotland

Getting Started Growing and Grazing with Organics | Helping farmers in Scotland


Other Related Resources

Lower Mill Of Tynet.co.uk

Direct Retailing from a Poultry, Dairy, Beef, Sheep & Arable farm – Lower Mill of Tynet - FAS Video


For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Facebook: @FASScot


National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

]]>Welcome to Stock Talk. On today’s episode Kirsten is joined by Gordon Whiteford who farms at Lower Mill of Tynet in Banffshire. In 2012, Gordon and June Whiteford began Lower Mill of Tynet Farm. They built an egg business, then a micro-dairy in 2020, selling milk and now ice cream directly from their 24-hour farm shop. They have brought together traditional farming practices with innovative direct-to-consumer strategies and are proud to have won Sustainable Farm of the Year 2024.

Timestamps

01.10 How it all started for Gordon

10.23 Organic hens and starting out with poultry

13.14 Lower Mill of Tynet

15.40 Nuffield Scholarship – Organic

22.16 Brown vs white hens

31.49 Micro dairy – milk and ice cream

48.46 What’s next for Gordon

Related FAS Resources

Organics in Scotland - Lower Mill of Tynet Case Study | Helping farmers in Scotland

Getting Started with Organic Farming – How to Convert to Organic | Helping farmers in Scotland

Managing Grassland Under Organic Systems | Helping farmers in Scotland

Getting Started Growing and Grazing with Organics | Helping farmers in Scotland


Other Related Resources

Lower Mill Of Tynet.co.uk

Direct Retailing from a Poultry, Dairy, Beef, Sheep & Arable farm – Lower Mill of Tynet - FAS Video


For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Facebook: @FASScot


National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

]]>efbb2241-6fda-4f06-b34e-f08c0c587679Fri, 30 Jan 2026 08:45:00 +000052:20falsefull4994Basil Lowman – 55 years of Driving the Beef Industry Forward and Pioneering New IdeasBasil Lowman – 55 years of Driving the Beef Industry Forward and Pioneering New IdeasWelcome to Stock Talk hosted by Kirsten Williams.  On today’s episode Kirsten is joined by Dr Basil Lowman who has been a beef specialist with SAC Consulting for 55 years. Kirsten describes Basil as a legend in the beef industry. We hear about Basil’s varied career, his passion for the industry, how he thrives on challenge and is a pioneer of new ideas.  

Episode Timestamps  

01.37 Let’s go back in time 

09.13 Body condition scoring of cattle 

16.38 The development of silage and straw-based rations 

24.24 The Green Shed 

29.43 Beef farming in 10 years’ time  


Related FAS Resources   

Cattle resources for farmers from Farm Advisory Service | FAS 

Body Condition Scoring - Maintaining condition (FAS)   


Other Related Resources

The Benefits of Cow Condition Scoring - Part 1 (QMS) 

The Benefits of Cow Condition Scoring - Part 2 

Greenshed Graphic - SRUC  

GreenShed video - SRUC - YouTube  


 

For more information, visit  www.FAS.scot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

 

National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

]]>Welcome to Stock Talk hosted by Kirsten Williams.  On today’s episode Kirsten is joined by Dr Basil Lowman who has been a beef specialist with SAC Consulting for 55 years. Kirsten describes Basil as a legend in the beef industry. We hear about Basil’s varied career, his passion for the industry, how he thrives on challenge and is a pioneer of new ideas.  

Episode Timestamps  

01.37 Let’s go back in time 

09.13 Body condition scoring of cattle 

16.38 The development of silage and straw-based rations 

24.24 The Green Shed 

29.43 Beef farming in 10 years’ time  


Related FAS Resources   

Cattle resources for farmers from Farm Advisory Service | FAS 

Body Condition Scoring - Maintaining condition (FAS)   


Other Related Resources

The Benefits of Cow Condition Scoring - Part 1 (QMS) 

The Benefits of Cow Condition Scoring - Part 2 

Greenshed Graphic - SRUC  

GreenShed video - SRUC - YouTube  


 

For more information, visit  www.FAS.scot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

 

National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

]]>a5c25b42-42ce-4519-b383-5e13baaf8567Fri, 26 Dec 2025 09:00:00 +000040:48falsefull4884Robert Gilchrist & Gavin HillRobert Gilchrist & Gavin HillWelcome to Stock Talk hosted by Kirsten Williams.  On today’s episode Kirsten is joined by two industry experts to discuss the beef industry. It’s a lively discussion covering many topics, including: replacement strategies, where the market is it at just now, sustainability and the future of the Scottish herd.  

Gavin Hill is a Senior Beef Specialist with SAC Consulting and Robet Gilchrist is Chief Executive of the Aberdeen-Angus Society.  

Episode Timestamps  

02.30 Cattle replacement strategies  

10.03 Where should the end price be? 

13.26 Changing eating behaviours and changes in the industry 

17.05 Future of the Scottish herd  

27.45 Cow of the future  

43.08 Matching the sire  

50.07 What will the Scottish beef industry look like in the next 10-20 years  


Resources    

Livestock resources for farmers from Farm Advisory Service 

Cattle resources for farmers from Farm Advisory Service | FAS 

Sustainable Beef Systems | Helping farmers in Scotland  


For more information, visit www.FAS.scot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

 

National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

]]>Welcome to Stock Talk hosted by Kirsten Williams.  On today’s episode Kirsten is joined by two industry experts to discuss the beef industry. It’s a lively discussion covering many topics, including: replacement strategies, where the market is it at just now, sustainability and the future of the Scottish herd.  

Gavin Hill is a Senior Beef Specialist with SAC Consulting and Robet Gilchrist is Chief Executive of the Aberdeen-Angus Society.  

Episode Timestamps  

02.30 Cattle replacement strategies  

10.03 Where should the end price be? 

13.26 Changing eating behaviours and changes in the industry 

17.05 Future of the Scottish herd  

27.45 Cow of the future  

43.08 Matching the sire  

50.07 What will the Scottish beef industry look like in the next 10-20 years  


Resources    

Livestock resources for farmers from Farm Advisory Service 

Cattle resources for farmers from Farm Advisory Service | FAS 

Sustainable Beef Systems | Helping farmers in Scotland  


For more information, visit www.FAS.scot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

 

National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

]]>77ae1e36-c174-4c8b-ad28-897321a4fca1Fri, 28 Nov 2025 09:00:00 +000001:00:36falsefull4774Innovation and Technology in the Livestock IndustryInnovation and Technology in the Livestock IndustryWelcome to Stock Talk hosted by Kirsten Williams.  On today’s episode, Kirsten is joined by Ross Robertson, a Farm Technology Specialist at the UK Agri-Tech Centre. Ross collaborates with a network of farms to create practical solutions and demonstrate use of technology on farm to increase productivity. Ross draws on his practical farming experience and knowledge gained through visiting systems in other countries to bring about innovative change at a farm level here in the UK. 

Episode Timestamps  

00.20 Introducing Ross Robertson, Farm Technology specialist and sheep farmer  

04.34 Sector technology: dairy, arable robotics and precision farming, pig and chicken technology and animal health 

09.00 Return on investment  

10.36 Understanding how to handle and understand the data – the importance of training  

13.32 Applying dairy technology to the beef sector  

15.41 Main driver for introducing technology: labour, cost saving, health monitoring, increasing productivity  

19.11 Ross’s background 

24.28 Biodiversity sensors 

27.42 LoRaWAN – Long Range Wide Area Network 

30.15 Connectivity - a barrier to the uptake of technology?  

32.01 ONE AgriTech survey – broadband, apps and expert help 

43.30 What motivates Ross  

Resources    

The UK Agri-Tech Centre | farming & food innovation 

Ross Robertson contact: 07858309293, ross.robertson@ukagritechcentre.com  

Opportunity North East (ONE) 

The University of Edinburgh - The Power of Data in Farm Animal Practice  

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

 National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

 

]]>Welcome to Stock Talk hosted by Kirsten Williams.  On today’s episode, Kirsten is joined by Ross Robertson, a Farm Technology Specialist at the UK Agri-Tech Centre. Ross collaborates with a network of farms to create practical solutions and demonstrate use of technology on farm to increase productivity. Ross draws on his practical farming experience and knowledge gained through visiting systems in other countries to bring about innovative change at a farm level here in the UK. 

Episode Timestamps  

00.20 Introducing Ross Robertson, Farm Technology specialist and sheep farmer  

04.34 Sector technology: dairy, arable robotics and precision farming, pig and chicken technology and animal health 

09.00 Return on investment  

10.36 Understanding how to handle and understand the data – the importance of training  

13.32 Applying dairy technology to the beef sector  

15.41 Main driver for introducing technology: labour, cost saving, health monitoring, increasing productivity  

19.11 Ross’s background 

24.28 Biodiversity sensors 

27.42 LoRaWAN – Long Range Wide Area Network 

30.15 Connectivity - a barrier to the uptake of technology?  

32.01 ONE AgriTech survey – broadband, apps and expert help 

43.30 What motivates Ross  

Resources    

The UK Agri-Tech Centre | farming & food innovation 

Ross Robertson contact: 07858309293, ross.robertson@ukagritechcentre.com  

Opportunity North East (ONE) 

The University of Edinburgh - The Power of Data in Farm Animal Practice  

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

 National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

 

]]>aeabb88c-e626-4b50-9651-e74638173d4dFri, 31 Oct 2025 08:30:00 +000046:20falsefull4664Herd Monitoring with Jilly Duncan GrantHerd Monitoring with Jilly Duncan GrantWelcome to Stock Talk hosted by Kirsten Williams.  On today’s episode Kirsten is joined by Jilly Duncan Grant, Founder & CEO of Herd Advance Ltd.  Jilly has a real love for agriculture and her varied career led to a focus on data driven decision making and developing Herd Advance with her husband to improve herd performance, profitability and wellbeing.   

Episode Timestamps  

00.42 Introducing Jilly Duncan Grant – a Jill of all trades! 

09.18 What is Herd Advance? 

23.49 The family farm – managing ‘boom and bust’ fluctuation in the marketplace 

27.55 QMS board member role 

31.03 What motivates Jilly to keep pushing forward 

FAS Resources 

Data Driven Decision Making for Finishing Cattle | Helping farmers in Scotland 

Data Driven Decision Making for Suckler Herds | Helping farmers in Scotland 

FFBC_Case_Study_Improving_weight_data_capture_Glenkilrie_ 


Other Resources    

Herd Advance  


 


For more information, visit www.FAS.scot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

 

National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

]]>Welcome to Stock Talk hosted by Kirsten Williams.  On today’s episode Kirsten is joined by Jilly Duncan Grant, Founder & CEO of Herd Advance Ltd.  Jilly has a real love for agriculture and her varied career led to a focus on data driven decision making and developing Herd Advance with her husband to improve herd performance, profitability and wellbeing.   

Episode Timestamps  

00.42 Introducing Jilly Duncan Grant – a Jill of all trades! 

09.18 What is Herd Advance? 

23.49 The family farm – managing ‘boom and bust’ fluctuation in the marketplace 

27.55 QMS board member role 

31.03 What motivates Jilly to keep pushing forward 

FAS Resources 

Data Driven Decision Making for Finishing Cattle | Helping farmers in Scotland 

Data Driven Decision Making for Suckler Herds | Helping farmers in Scotland 

FFBC_Case_Study_Improving_weight_data_capture_Glenkilrie_ 


Other Resources    

Herd Advance  


 


For more information, visit www.FAS.scot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

 

National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

]]>f4482ad9-080a-4e67-aef7-efd1d02cb30bFri, 26 Sep 2025 09:00:00 +000038:50falsefull4554Bred to be Wild!Bred to be Wild!Welcome to Stock Talk hosted by Kirsten Williams.  On today’s episode Kirsten is joined by Turkey Farmer Paul Kelly. In 1971, Paul’s parents started the family business, known today as ‘Kelly Turkeys’ and ‘Farmgate Hatcheries’. The cycle starts with eggs going into incubators in April for 28 days. When they hatch, they go into brooding sheds, then by 5 weeks of age they are ready to go to the woodland where they roam freely. At Kelly Turkeys they have complete control over the whole production cycle, making them very unique in the industry and one of a kind in the UK. The business has developed resilience to deal with issues like Brexit, labour, marketing and work by the motto ‘change is the name of the game’.   

Episode Timestamps  

00.31 Introducing Paul and the turkey cycle 

02.41 Inseminating vs running with stags 

03.24 Genetics and breeding lines 

09.43 Hatchery business: 1.8 million chicks a year 

12.48 Kelly turkeys: 100,000 turkeys reared through to Christmas 

18.38 Split between whole turkeys, crowns and butterflies  

27.36 Bringing resilience into the business 

33.32 Avian influenza (bird flu)  

37.44 Markets, trends and online sales 

39.09 Weighing turkeys, sources of protein (acorns!) and organic  

44.36 Succession  

46.50 Marketing and celebrity chefs! 


 


FAS Resources 

Poultry | Helping farmers in Scotland 


Other Resources    

Kelly Bronze Turkeys   

Farmgate Hatcheries 

New GB avian influenza wildlife interactive map and data dashboard launched | SRUC 

Avian influenza (bird flu): how to spot and report the disease - gov.scot  


For more information, visit  www.FAS.scot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

 

National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

]]>Welcome to Stock Talk hosted by Kirsten Williams.  On today’s episode Kirsten is joined by Turkey Farmer Paul Kelly. In 1971, Paul’s parents started the family business, known today as ‘Kelly Turkeys’ and ‘Farmgate Hatcheries’. The cycle starts with eggs going into incubators in April for 28 days. When they hatch, they go into brooding sheds, then by 5 weeks of age they are ready to go to the woodland where they roam freely. At Kelly Turkeys they have complete control over the whole production cycle, making them very unique in the industry and one of a kind in the UK. The business has developed resilience to deal with issues like Brexit, labour, marketing and work by the motto ‘change is the name of the game’.   

Episode Timestamps  

00.31 Introducing Paul and the turkey cycle 

02.41 Inseminating vs running with stags 

03.24 Genetics and breeding lines 

09.43 Hatchery business: 1.8 million chicks a year 

12.48 Kelly turkeys: 100,000 turkeys reared through to Christmas 

18.38 Split between whole turkeys, crowns and butterflies  

27.36 Bringing resilience into the business 

33.32 Avian influenza (bird flu)  

37.44 Markets, trends and online sales 

39.09 Weighing turkeys, sources of protein (acorns!) and organic  

44.36 Succession  

46.50 Marketing and celebrity chefs! 


 


FAS Resources 

Poultry | Helping farmers in Scotland 


Other Resources    

Kelly Bronze Turkeys   

Farmgate Hatcheries 

New GB avian influenza wildlife interactive map and data dashboard launched | SRUC 

Avian influenza (bird flu): how to spot and report the disease - gov.scot  


For more information, visit  www.FAS.scot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

 

National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

]]>47f83d3a-a927-44c6-8d9b-ee465ca78087Thu, 28 Aug 2025 08:30:00 +000053:19falsefull4444Livestock Health - Laying it All OutLivestock Health - Laying it All OutWelcome to Stock Talk hosted by Principal Consultant Kirsten Williams.  On today’s episode Kirsten is joined by Colin Mason (Veterinary Centre Manager, SRUC). This episode focuses on livestock health and covers BVD eradication, show biosecurity, dairy beef calves, TB, Bluetongue and Schmallenberg virus.    

Episode Timestamps  

00.44 BVD eradication (phase 6) 

10.08 Top tips for biosecurity of show animals 

16.20 Health of dairy beef calves  

18.23 Colostrum management  

20.45 Blood tests for calves 

25.05 Weight for age and average DLWG 

27.29 Lung scanning 

28.53 Tuberculosis (TB)  

31.42 Bluetongue  

35.36 Schmallenberg 

40.23 Managing calf groups to reduce disease risk  

FAS Resources 

 BVD Eradication Scheme Update (YouTube.com)

Other Resources    

BVD Guidance | ScotEID 

GOV.scot - bovine viral diarrhoea - bvd 

Dairy beef booklet - SAC Consulting 

GOV.uk - bluetongue information and guidance for livestock keepers 

Bluetongue Virus Hub - Ruminant Health & Welfare 

Schmallenberg virus - GOV.UK   

ibTB - Mapping bovine TB (bTB) in England and Wales 

  


For more information, visit www.FAS.scot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

 

National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

]]>Welcome to Stock Talk hosted by Principal Consultant Kirsten Williams.  On today’s episode Kirsten is joined by Colin Mason (Veterinary Centre Manager, SRUC). This episode focuses on livestock health and covers BVD eradication, show biosecurity, dairy beef calves, TB, Bluetongue and Schmallenberg virus.    

Episode Timestamps  

00.44 BVD eradication (phase 6) 

10.08 Top tips for biosecurity of show animals 

16.20 Health of dairy beef calves  

18.23 Colostrum management  

20.45 Blood tests for calves 

25.05 Weight for age and average DLWG 

27.29 Lung scanning 

28.53 Tuberculosis (TB)  

31.42 Bluetongue  

35.36 Schmallenberg 

40.23 Managing calf groups to reduce disease risk  

FAS Resources 

 BVD Eradication Scheme Update (YouTube.com)

Other Resources    

BVD Guidance | ScotEID 

GOV.scot - bovine viral diarrhoea - bvd 

Dairy beef booklet - SAC Consulting 

GOV.uk - bluetongue information and guidance for livestock keepers 

Bluetongue Virus Hub - Ruminant Health & Welfare 

Schmallenberg virus - GOV.UK   

ibTB - Mapping bovine TB (bTB) in England and Wales 

  


For more information, visit www.FAS.scot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

 

National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

]]>fb7ed12f-82ac-4057-97a4-b70886d942c8Fri, 25 Jul 2025 08:15:00 +000046:38falsefull4334The 5-Mile Pig!The 5-Mile Pig!Welcome to Stock Talk hosted by Principal Consultant Kirsten Williams.  On today’s episode Kirsten is joined by farmers Ben and Harriet Lowe. HB Farms in Aberdeenshire consists of Newseat of Dumbreck, an arable farm on tenancy and Pitmillan Farm which is home to 450 breeding sows and a finishing unit. In addition to grass, forestry and land for environmental schemes, they grow 397ha of crops, with the grain used as feed for the pigs whilst manure is recycled back onto the fields. Soil health, circular agriculture and long-term biodiversity are priorities for HB Farms. 

Episode Timestamps  

01:05 Introducing Ben and Harriet Lowe 

05:38 Farm stats 

06:38 Pigs, from breeding to finishing and managing a weekly system 

09:15 Knowledgeable staff 

10:46 Creating a circular farm 

11:36 Saving on inputs due to pig FYM 

14:04 Ration changes throughout the cycle 

15:53 Data driven decision making 

19:19 Genetics and feed conversion 

21:14 Target carcase weight and spec 

23:36 Processing pig meat 

26:13 Managing cashflow 

27:31 Protein in the pig diet

33:18 Nuffield: closing the loop in pig production: the 5-mile pig 

39:30 LEAF demonstration farm 

41:09 Resilience in the business 

47:35 Advice for New Entrants 


FAS Resources 

FAS Case Studies - Gaining A Tenancy As A New Entrant  


Other Resources    

Instagram - HB Farms 

Nuffield scholar - Ben Lowe  

Leaf demonstration farms - HB Farms  


 


For more information, visit www.FAS.scot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

 

National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

]]>Welcome to Stock Talk hosted by Principal Consultant Kirsten Williams.  On today’s episode Kirsten is joined by farmers Ben and Harriet Lowe. HB Farms in Aberdeenshire consists of Newseat of Dumbreck, an arable farm on tenancy and Pitmillan Farm which is home to 450 breeding sows and a finishing unit. In addition to grass, forestry and land for environmental schemes, they grow 397ha of crops, with the grain used as feed for the pigs whilst manure is recycled back onto the fields. Soil health, circular agriculture and long-term biodiversity are priorities for HB Farms. 

Episode Timestamps  

01:05 Introducing Ben and Harriet Lowe 

05:38 Farm stats 

06:38 Pigs, from breeding to finishing and managing a weekly system 

09:15 Knowledgeable staff 

10:46 Creating a circular farm 

11:36 Saving on inputs due to pig FYM 

14:04 Ration changes throughout the cycle 

15:53 Data driven decision making 

19:19 Genetics and feed conversion 

21:14 Target carcase weight and spec 

23:36 Processing pig meat 

26:13 Managing cashflow 

27:31 Protein in the pig diet

33:18 Nuffield: closing the loop in pig production: the 5-mile pig 

39:30 LEAF demonstration farm 

41:09 Resilience in the business 

47:35 Advice for New Entrants 


FAS Resources 

FAS Case Studies - Gaining A Tenancy As A New Entrant  


Other Resources    

Instagram - HB Farms 

Nuffield scholar - Ben Lowe  

Leaf demonstration farms - HB Farms  


 


For more information, visit www.FAS.scot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

 

National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

]]>3a60672e-bea3-4b14-a622-7fc8ae5026a3Fri, 27 Jun 2025 09:00:00 +000050:29falsefull4224Craig and Claire GrantCraig and Claire GrantWelcome to Stock Talk hosted by Beef and Sheep Consultant Kirsten Williams.  On today’s episode Kirsten is joined by farmers Craig and Claire Grant who run a mixed farming enterprise across 1,300 acres arable and 400 acres grass (owned and rented) along with their team of 20 full and part time employees. The business has poultry across five sites with a total of 225,000 laying hens, in addition to 330 bulling heifers that are sold privately with high health off farm to producers throughout Scotland. Craig and Claire regularly engage with the public, sharing information about where food comes from. 

Episode Timestamps  

00.35 Introducing Craig and Claire Grant 

04.30 Business components, systems and staff 

07.44 Finding and retaining labour 

11.20 Enriched colonies and free-range birds 

14.50 Egg markets and Kindrought Egg Hoosie 

19.03 Cooperation in farming  

21.37 Audits 

23.47 Cattle: marketing on farm, scoring charts, high health, certification packages 

32.10 Buying young stock 

35.57 Building relationships and trust 

37.05 An award-winning business (Young Farmer of the Year, Mixed Farm of the Year, Overall Farm of the Year) 


FAS Resources 

Contract Farming Agreements Explained | Farm Advisory Service 

Business planning and financial management: An introduction | Farm Advisory Service 


Other Resources    

C J Grant | Facebook  


For more information, visit  www.FAS.scot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

 

National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

]]>Welcome to Stock Talk hosted by Beef and Sheep Consultant Kirsten Williams.  On today’s episode Kirsten is joined by farmers Craig and Claire Grant who run a mixed farming enterprise across 1,300 acres arable and 400 acres grass (owned and rented) along with their team of 20 full and part time employees. The business has poultry across five sites with a total of 225,000 laying hens, in addition to 330 bulling heifers that are sold privately with high health off farm to producers throughout Scotland. Craig and Claire regularly engage with the public, sharing information about where food comes from. 

Episode Timestamps  

00.35 Introducing Craig and Claire Grant 

04.30 Business components, systems and staff 

07.44 Finding and retaining labour 

11.20 Enriched colonies and free-range birds 

14.50 Egg markets and Kindrought Egg Hoosie 

19.03 Cooperation in farming  

21.37 Audits 

23.47 Cattle: marketing on farm, scoring charts, high health, certification packages 

32.10 Buying young stock 

35.57 Building relationships and trust 

37.05 An award-winning business (Young Farmer of the Year, Mixed Farm of the Year, Overall Farm of the Year) 


FAS Resources 

Contract Farming Agreements Explained | Farm Advisory Service 

Business planning and financial management: An introduction | Farm Advisory Service 


Other Resources    

C J Grant | Facebook  


For more information, visit  www.FAS.scot 

Facebook: @FASScot 

 

National Advice Hub 

Phone: 0300 323 0161 

Email: advice@fas.scot 

]]>4b5bbc10-4554-4f98-9c1d-fa8b6cd86c49Fri, 30 May 2025 09:00:00 +000041:46falsefull4114Kirsten Williams Stock Talk HandoverKirsten Williams Stock Talk HandoverIn this podcast we hear from Kirsten Williams who will be taking over Robert Ramsay’s role as the host on Stock Talk. Kirsten talks about her farming system at home as well as her interests at work. Robert mentions some of his favourite Stock Talk podcasts and how they can develop into something bigger (e.g. the deer farming podcast has now turned into a FAS Deer Farming Group). Kirsten wishes to continue Stock Talk with more farming stories as well as discussing more technical aspects.  

Related FAS Resources

Kirsten Williams: Let your determination grow stronger | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service

]]>In this podcast we hear from Kirsten Williams who will be taking over Robert Ramsay’s role as the host on Stock Talk. Kirsten talks about her farming system at home as well as her interests at work. Robert mentions some of his favourite Stock Talk podcasts and how they can develop into something bigger (e.g. the deer farming podcast has now turned into a FAS Deer Farming Group). Kirsten wishes to continue Stock Talk with more farming stories as well as discussing more technical aspects.  

Related FAS Resources

Kirsten Williams: Let your determination grow stronger | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service

]]>f0428176-0b54-4405-af7b-e026c2a7cb42Fri, 28 Feb 2025 09:00:00 +000032:09falsefull310103Sam Parsons, Balcaskie EstateSam Parsons, Balcaskie EstateIn this podcast we hear from Sam Parsons from Balcaskie. He talks about the organic farming system and the use of regenerative agriculture practices at Balcaskie and how it has helped reduce costs. He also talks about meat eating quality in their choice of cattle as they sell their beef direct to customers through the butchery. They are using Lincoln Red bulls across the herd.  Sam talks about the challenges he has faced with changing his system from 6-7 months winter housing cattle to outwintering them most of the year. He also discussed with Robert the importance of young people coming into the industry. 

You can contact Sam by emailing sparsons@balcaskie.com 

Related FAS Resources

Stock Talk - James Biggar & Lorna Galloway | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service

]]>In this podcast we hear from Sam Parsons from Balcaskie. He talks about the organic farming system and the use of regenerative agriculture practices at Balcaskie and how it has helped reduce costs. He also talks about meat eating quality in their choice of cattle as they sell their beef direct to customers through the butchery. They are using Lincoln Red bulls across the herd.  Sam talks about the challenges he has faced with changing his system from 6-7 months winter housing cattle to outwintering them most of the year. He also discussed with Robert the importance of young people coming into the industry. 

You can contact Sam by emailing sparsons@balcaskie.com 

Related FAS Resources

Stock Talk - James Biggar & Lorna Galloway | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service

]]>3a1927ff-26ed-435d-ac09-734588a6937eFri, 31 Jan 2025 09:00:00 +000055:45falsefull3993Jock GibsonJock GibsonIn this podcast we hear from Jock Gibson who is a farmer and butcher. He talks about his farming system at home and how his cattle are certified with Pasture for Life. This means they are on a grassland and forage diet and are therefore slower to reach finished weights than conventional finishing systems which feed concentrate feed. Jock has native breeds of cattle to suit this system. Jock also talks about the butchery side of the business and direct selling to customers and the importance of eating quality of the meat he is selling to customers.  Jock also talks about his Nuffield Scholarship focussing on eating quality of meat which included travels to other countries to experience different systems and abattoirs.  Jock is a trustee of Farmstrong Scotland and this is something he is passionate about. This is now setup as a charity and is designed to help people with their mental health and wellbeing and encourage the creation of positive habits.  

Linked resources: 

Farmstrong Scotland - Live Well, Farm & Croft Well 

]]>In this podcast we hear from Jock Gibson who is a farmer and butcher. He talks about his farming system at home and how his cattle are certified with Pasture for Life. This means they are on a grassland and forage diet and are therefore slower to reach finished weights than conventional finishing systems which feed concentrate feed. Jock has native breeds of cattle to suit this system. Jock also talks about the butchery side of the business and direct selling to customers and the importance of eating quality of the meat he is selling to customers.  Jock also talks about his Nuffield Scholarship focussing on eating quality of meat which included travels to other countries to experience different systems and abattoirs.  Jock is a trustee of Farmstrong Scotland and this is something he is passionate about. This is now setup as a charity and is designed to help people with their mental health and wellbeing and encourage the creation of positive habits.  

Linked resources: 

Farmstrong Scotland - Live Well, Farm & Croft Well 

]]>dcb96364-554a-4192-b8e6-d3813da9424dFri, 27 Dec 2024 09:30:00 +000001:08:55falsefull3883SRUC Easter Howgate updateSRUC Easter Howgate updateIn this podcast we hear from Bruce Wyper, Stockperson at SRUC Easter Howgate. He talks about some of the projects have been going on at Easter Howgate including GreenCow and Green Shed. He also discusses the move to running the herd more commercially than it has been previously although it is still a farm used for research projects. He talks about the challenges the herd has faced including Johnes and fertility issues and how dynamic health planning has helped them to improve the performance of the herd.

]]>In this podcast we hear from Bruce Wyper, Stockperson at SRUC Easter Howgate. He talks about some of the projects have been going on at Easter Howgate including GreenCow and Green Shed. He also discusses the move to running the herd more commercially than it has been previously although it is still a farm used for research projects. He talks about the challenges the herd has faced including Johnes and fertility issues and how dynamic health planning has helped them to improve the performance of the herd.

]]>5880452c-cb8f-448c-ae00-9eff4eac6c5aFri, 29 Nov 2024 09:00:00 +000046:19falsefull3773Jan Vos & Lorna GallowayJan Vos & Lorna GallowayIn this podcast we hear from Jan Vos, Agronomist from Agrovista & Lorna Galloway SAC Consultant from SAC Stranraer Office. They talk about soil health, agronomy, and sustainable practices to get the desired outcome – healthy crops and effective weed management. They also talk about the best way to establish and keep clover in the sward and a clover-safe herbicide that is undergoing trials and should be available to use soon. Rushes and bracken control is also discussed.

Linked resources:

GrassCheck - HOME - GrassCheck GB

]]>In this podcast we hear from Jan Vos, Agronomist from Agrovista & Lorna Galloway SAC Consultant from SAC Stranraer Office. They talk about soil health, agronomy, and sustainable practices to get the desired outcome – healthy crops and effective weed management. They also talk about the best way to establish and keep clover in the sward and a clover-safe herbicide that is undergoing trials and should be available to use soon. Rushes and bracken control is also discussed.

Linked resources:

GrassCheck - HOME - GrassCheck GB

]]>d39df96b-5bd0-4ee2-a186-37003a41d0eaFri, 29 Nov 2024 09:00:00 +000001:09:15falsefull3663Vic & Jason BallantyneVic & Jason BallantyneIn this podcast we hear from Vic and Jason Ballantyne, who are tenant farmers on the edge of Brora. They talk about their forage based farming system and the importance of their low input system to achieve a good a work-life balance. Vic and Jason are continually trying to improve the genetics in their livestock through a strict culling policy. They currently run 100 suckler cows and 400 ewes of their own plus they contract farm a further 230 ewes. 

Related FAS Resources

Livestock resources for farmers from Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Sustainable Sheep Systems - Clynelish Case Study | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service

]]>In this podcast we hear from Vic and Jason Ballantyne, who are tenant farmers on the edge of Brora. They talk about their forage based farming system and the importance of their low input system to achieve a good a work-life balance. Vic and Jason are continually trying to improve the genetics in their livestock through a strict culling policy. They currently run 100 suckler cows and 400 ewes of their own plus they contract farm a further 230 ewes. 

Related FAS Resources

Livestock resources for farmers from Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Sustainable Sheep Systems - Clynelish Case Study | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service

]]>123c9822-e87c-4d44-bba4-6e81268271ddFri, 27 Sep 2024 09:00:00 +000001:06:45falsefull3553Graham LofthouseGraham LofthouseIn this episode, host Robert Ramsay speaks to Graham Lofthouse, beef and sheep farmer from Bankhouse Farm, in the Scottish Borders, and winner of the AgriScot Scottish Sheep Farmer of the Year award 2016. Robert and Graham discuss the strategies and challenges of rotational grazing systems, lamb growth, flock efficiency, genetics and how Graham established his wool-shedding flock.

kglofthouse@tiscali.co.uk mobile 07708060236

Related FAS Resources

Selecting the Right Ram for the Job | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Technical Note (TN767): Management and Selection of Rams for Efficiency

Tupping | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Lamb Performance | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Sustainable Sheep Systems | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)


]]>In this episode, host Robert Ramsay speaks to Graham Lofthouse, beef and sheep farmer from Bankhouse Farm, in the Scottish Borders, and winner of the AgriScot Scottish Sheep Farmer of the Year award 2016. Robert and Graham discuss the strategies and challenges of rotational grazing systems, lamb growth, flock efficiency, genetics and how Graham established his wool-shedding flock.

kglofthouse@tiscali.co.uk mobile 07708060236

Related FAS Resources

Selecting the Right Ram for the Job | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Technical Note (TN767): Management and Selection of Rams for Efficiency

Tupping | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Lamb Performance | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Sustainable Sheep Systems | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)


]]>958bfd16-053f-4ac3-b43c-8946e41cf55eFri, 30 Aug 2024 09:00:00 +000001:18:39falsefull3443Growing the Business - Andrew MarchantGrowing the Business - Andrew MarchantIn this podcast we hear from Andrew Marchant. He started on his tenanted farm, Clonhie Farm, with 12 ewes and worked off-farm in order to maximise income for the farm in the initial years to allow him to purchase stock and build up numbers on the farm quicker. As well as building up stock numbers he explored different enterprises, now having a herd of 65 pure Luing and Aberdeen Angus cross Luing cows, a flock of 850 ewes, 200 Aberdeen Angus cross dairy stores (purchased as weaned calves), and a deer herd. He also has a contract farming agreement in place which allows him access to another income stream. Andrew has continually expanded his business, gaining extra rented land nearby allowing him to build stock numbers further. His farming system is relatively extensive and low input with cows outwintered and ewes lambing outside. The cow and sheep genetics are improving from buying in performance recorded tups and ewes, and more recently, Andrew has started using wool shedding tups. He highlights the importance of turnover and cashflow to make his business work and he isn’t afraid to purchase inputs if he thinks he can make a profit from doing so.  

Linked FAS Resources

Farm Tenancy Webinar - Andrew Marchant

New Entrants resources for farmers from Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Agricultural Tenancies | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Writing a Farm Tenancy Tender Application | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

]]>In this podcast we hear from Andrew Marchant. He started on his tenanted farm, Clonhie Farm, with 12 ewes and worked off-farm in order to maximise income for the farm in the initial years to allow him to purchase stock and build up numbers on the farm quicker. As well as building up stock numbers he explored different enterprises, now having a herd of 65 pure Luing and Aberdeen Angus cross Luing cows, a flock of 850 ewes, 200 Aberdeen Angus cross dairy stores (purchased as weaned calves), and a deer herd. He also has a contract farming agreement in place which allows him access to another income stream. Andrew has continually expanded his business, gaining extra rented land nearby allowing him to build stock numbers further. His farming system is relatively extensive and low input with cows outwintered and ewes lambing outside. The cow and sheep genetics are improving from buying in performance recorded tups and ewes, and more recently, Andrew has started using wool shedding tups. He highlights the importance of turnover and cashflow to make his business work and he isn’t afraid to purchase inputs if he thinks he can make a profit from doing so.  

Linked FAS Resources

Farm Tenancy Webinar - Andrew Marchant

New Entrants resources for farmers from Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Agricultural Tenancies | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Writing a Farm Tenancy Tender Application | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

]]>0267dc21-70a1-4bee-bf92-b272a3315998Fri, 26 Jul 2024 09:00:00 +000056:47falsefull3333Cattle EID with David KerrCattle EID with David KerrIn this podcast we hear from David Kerr, ScotEID’s Technical Manager. He speaks about cattle EID tags and their importance in the future for traceability for food safety and disease control. David tells us about the technology and the differences between Ultra High Frequency (UHF) tags which will be used for cattle tags, and Low Frequency (LF) tags which are used in sheep tags. David explains the minimal affect this will have on beef farmers once compulsory EID tagging of cattle comes into effect – the minimum is to tag the calf with a pink EID tag. The use of EID readers and performance recording etc is all optional and up to the farmer if they wish to use them to its full benefit as a management tool.

Related Resources

Consultation on cattle identification and traceability in Scotland - Page 1 of 10 - Scottish Government consultations - Citizen Space

ScotEid - 2024 - Board 7 - v1

]]>In this podcast we hear from David Kerr, ScotEID’s Technical Manager. He speaks about cattle EID tags and their importance in the future for traceability for food safety and disease control. David tells us about the technology and the differences between Ultra High Frequency (UHF) tags which will be used for cattle tags, and Low Frequency (LF) tags which are used in sheep tags. David explains the minimal affect this will have on beef farmers once compulsory EID tagging of cattle comes into effect – the minimum is to tag the calf with a pink EID tag. The use of EID readers and performance recording etc is all optional and up to the farmer if they wish to use them to its full benefit as a management tool.

Related Resources

Consultation on cattle identification and traceability in Scotland - Page 1 of 10 - Scottish Government consultations - Citizen Space

ScotEid - 2024 - Board 7 - v1

]]>349a89da-0fe9-47de-b617-54d98806e347Fri, 28 Jun 2024 09:00:00 +000036:58falsefull3223James Biggar & Lorna GallowayJames Biggar & Lorna GallowayIn this podcast we hear from James Biggar who has drastically changed his farming system in recent years. His main aim is to reduce the cost of production with his beef herd which includes the use of forage crops and deferred grazing with bales to outwinter cows. 120 of his cows are kept outside 365 days a year. James talks about the importance of options and having a Plan B in case of a crop failure in his system, this is why he spreads the risk by growing different types of forage crops and has the bale grazing (deferred grazing with bale silage) which breaks up the winter into 3 parts. Lorna speaks about soil health and how important it is setting up for growing a forage crop including the factors you need to think about beforehand. James talks about how he has learnt a lot from going to events and approaching farmers with a similar system.

Related Resources

Chapelton Farm - Pedigree Beef Sires

Event on 14th June 2024: Forage First Systems at Corbieton Farm | Events helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

]]>In this podcast we hear from James Biggar who has drastically changed his farming system in recent years. His main aim is to reduce the cost of production with his beef herd which includes the use of forage crops and deferred grazing with bales to outwinter cows. 120 of his cows are kept outside 365 days a year. James talks about the importance of options and having a Plan B in case of a crop failure in his system, this is why he spreads the risk by growing different types of forage crops and has the bale grazing (deferred grazing with bale silage) which breaks up the winter into 3 parts. Lorna speaks about soil health and how important it is setting up for growing a forage crop including the factors you need to think about beforehand. James talks about how he has learnt a lot from going to events and approaching farmers with a similar system.

Related Resources

Chapelton Farm - Pedigree Beef Sires

Event on 14th June 2024: Forage First Systems at Corbieton Farm | Events helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

]]>d92d369f-2df3-4c3c-9205-5e6d0126f5edThu, 30 May 2024 09:00:00 +000049:37falsefull3113Practical Advice for Lambing & CalvingPractical Advice for Lambing & CalvingIn this podcast we hear from SRUC Veterinary Investigation Officers Megan Fergusson and Tim Geraghty. They talk about the importance of good husbandry and top tips to save time and to prevent disease spreading at lambing and calving time. They also talk about health planning and how recording lamb and calf losses can help when reviewing these losses and how to improve survival rates in the future.

Linked FAS resources:

Lambing | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Calving Heifers Vlog Series | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Losses at Calving – should I investigate? | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Maximising Calf Survival | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

]]>In this podcast we hear from SRUC Veterinary Investigation Officers Megan Fergusson and Tim Geraghty. They talk about the importance of good husbandry and top tips to save time and to prevent disease spreading at lambing and calving time. They also talk about health planning and how recording lamb and calf losses can help when reviewing these losses and how to improve survival rates in the future.

Linked FAS resources:

Lambing | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Calving Heifers Vlog Series | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Losses at Calving – should I investigate? | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Maximising Calf Survival | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

]]>0634a2ec-0e8f-449b-8bde-923fc32862ccFri, 29 Mar 2024 09:00:00 +000054:13falsefull212122Performance in Beef HerdsPerformance in Beef HerdsIn this podcast we hear from Sascha Grierson, SAC Consultant and Economist, and Colin Mason, SAC Veterinary Investigation Officer. They talk to Robert Ramsay about improving productivity and efficiency in beef herds and also talk about grant support to aid this improvement. 

Related FAS Resources

Cattle resources for farmers from Farm Advisory Service | FAS

Agribusiness News February 2024 - Inputs: Calf Management | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Beef Technical Toolkit | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

]]>In this podcast we hear from Sascha Grierson, SAC Consultant and Economist, and Colin Mason, SAC Veterinary Investigation Officer. They talk to Robert Ramsay about improving productivity and efficiency in beef herds and also talk about grant support to aid this improvement. 

Related FAS Resources

Cattle resources for farmers from Farm Advisory Service | FAS

Agribusiness News February 2024 - Inputs: Calf Management | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Beef Technical Toolkit | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

]]>dcbf180a-fcfb-4b2d-a6cb-889fabb51e0dThu, 29 Feb 2024 09:00:00 +000001:04:52falsefull211112Stock Talk - Sean CursiterStock Talk - Sean CursiterIn this podcast we hear from Sean Cursiter who has featured on BBC’s ‘This Farming Life’ program. Sean Cursiter farms at Laga Farm, Orkney with his dad and his uncle. Due to his dad and uncle still being relatively young and fit to farm Laga, Sean decided to buy a farm for himself and his family’s future; Arwick Farm, Orkney. Sean tells us about his story and strong work-ethic which led to him being able to buy a farm. Although Sean still helps out at Laga, he now has his own farm business at Arwick and has aspirations to improve the farm and breed sustainable low-input livestock.  He also speaks about the wintering systems they employ at Laga (sheep slats) and at Arwick (feeding silage in the hill) to help the sheep get through the long Orkney winters. 

Linked resources: 

The Sheep Game slatted shed videos: 

These SHEEP got a NEW SHED (youtube.com) 

£70,000 UPGRADE to this SHEEP SHED - YouTube 

]]>In this podcast we hear from Sean Cursiter who has featured on BBC’s ‘This Farming Life’ program. Sean Cursiter farms at Laga Farm, Orkney with his dad and his uncle. Due to his dad and uncle still being relatively young and fit to farm Laga, Sean decided to buy a farm for himself and his family’s future; Arwick Farm, Orkney. Sean tells us about his story and strong work-ethic which led to him being able to buy a farm. Although Sean still helps out at Laga, he now has his own farm business at Arwick and has aspirations to improve the farm and breed sustainable low-input livestock.  He also speaks about the wintering systems they employ at Laga (sheep slats) and at Arwick (feeding silage in the hill) to help the sheep get through the long Orkney winters. 

Linked resources: 

The Sheep Game slatted shed videos: 

These SHEEP got a NEW SHED (youtube.com) 

£70,000 UPGRADE to this SHEEP SHED - YouTube 

]]>df78c4e4-bdc8-46c2-8a2b-755c0166a448Wed, 07 Feb 2024 09:00:00 +000057:30falsefull210102Dairy GenomicsDairy GenomicsIn this podcast we hear from Rhona McAlister who is Precision Animal Health Commercial Manager (genomics specialist) with Zoetis.  Rhona speaks about the role of genomics and how it can accelerate genetic progress. Breeding decisions can be made with more confidence and data driven.  

]]>In this podcast we hear from Rhona McAlister who is Precision Animal Health Commercial Manager (genomics specialist) with Zoetis.  Rhona speaks about the role of genomics and how it can accelerate genetic progress. Breeding decisions can be made with more confidence and data driven.  

]]>7f716642-b249-40fd-86fb-81a34a903d2bFri, 29 Dec 2023 09:00:00 +000038:09falsefull2992Collars, Crops & Costs with David WhitefordCollars, Crops & Costs with David WhitefordIn this podcast we hear from David Whiteford who has drastically changed his farming system over the past few years. He used to have a traditional system of sheep grazing on the hill and cattle housed over the winter period. Nowadays, he has crossbred sheep on the in-bye land and leaves his hill to grow grass over the summer to be utilised by the cows as deferred winter grazing.  This reduces wintering costs for the cattle. He has changed his breeds of cattle and sheep along the way to suit this system. He also speaks about his experience of growing crops for cattle to graze in the winter, with this year’s crop of choice being fodder beet. 

Related Resources

Thrill of the Hill - Virtually Stockproof | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)  

FAS meeting at Maxwelston on 13th December: Collars, Crops & Costs | Events helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) 

Virtual Fencing | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

]]>In this podcast we hear from David Whiteford who has drastically changed his farming system over the past few years. He used to have a traditional system of sheep grazing on the hill and cattle housed over the winter period. Nowadays, he has crossbred sheep on the in-bye land and leaves his hill to grow grass over the summer to be utilised by the cows as deferred winter grazing.  This reduces wintering costs for the cattle. He has changed his breeds of cattle and sheep along the way to suit this system. He also speaks about his experience of growing crops for cattle to graze in the winter, with this year’s crop of choice being fodder beet. 

Related Resources

Thrill of the Hill - Virtually Stockproof | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)  

FAS meeting at Maxwelston on 13th December: Collars, Crops & Costs | Events helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) 

Virtual Fencing | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

]]>3f40063d-45d8-43d3-9155-115fc8123b17Thu, 30 Nov 2023 09:00:00 +000038:43falsefull2882Dairy Market Outlook & Looking to the FutureDairy Market Outlook & Looking to the FutureIn this podcast we hear from Lorna MacPherson, SAC Dairy Consultant, and Jimmy Goldie, Technical Manager at Carrs Billington. They speak about the dairy market outlook for the winter season including milk price and input costs. They discuss the importance of nutrition rationing dairy cows and trying to get the best value diet without compromising on performance. They also speak about sustainability of the dairy industry and the role of carbon auditing. The future of the dairy industry is discussed including the challenges ahead and the opportunities.  

Hosted by Robert Ramsay, edited by Malcolm MacDonald, Produced by Kirstyn Blackwood, Executive Producer Kerry Hammond. In association with The Scottish Government.

]]>In this podcast we hear from Lorna MacPherson, SAC Dairy Consultant, and Jimmy Goldie, Technical Manager at Carrs Billington. They speak about the dairy market outlook for the winter season including milk price and input costs. They discuss the importance of nutrition rationing dairy cows and trying to get the best value diet without compromising on performance. They also speak about sustainability of the dairy industry and the role of carbon auditing. The future of the dairy industry is discussed including the challenges ahead and the opportunities.  

Hosted by Robert Ramsay, edited by Malcolm MacDonald, Produced by Kirstyn Blackwood, Executive Producer Kerry Hammond. In association with The Scottish Government.

]]>478482fa-856f-4967-81a4-f09757ff50f3Mon, 13 Nov 2023 09:00:00 +000040:41falsefull2772Organics with Hugh GriersonOrganics with Hugh GriersonIn this podcast we hear from Hugh Grierson who runs an organic farm and butchery business, direct selling his meat to customers.  Hugh tells us about how his organic business has developed over the years. 

Linked FAS resources: 

Hugh Grierson Organic | High quality organic meats delivered to your door 

Organics Discussion Group from the Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

]]>In this podcast we hear from Hugh Grierson who runs an organic farm and butchery business, direct selling his meat to customers.  Hugh tells us about how his organic business has developed over the years. 

Linked FAS resources: 

Hugh Grierson Organic | High quality organic meats delivered to your door 

Organics Discussion Group from the Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

]]>990113e9-b15d-43ef-a286-472d95548133Thu, 28 Sep 2023 09:00:00 +000055:36falsefull2662Planning Ahead of Tupping TimePlanning Ahead of Tupping TimeIn this podcast we hear from SAC Veterinary Investigation Officer Megan Fergusson. Megan talks to us about how to give your flock the best chance of a successful lambing next year as we discuss issues that lead to barren ewes and how to prevent them.

During this podcast we discuss enzootic abortion and toxoplasmosis; trace elements; ewe body condition scores; and tups including tup power required.

]]>In this podcast we hear from SAC Veterinary Investigation Officer Megan Fergusson. Megan talks to us about how to give your flock the best chance of a successful lambing next year as we discuss issues that lead to barren ewes and how to prevent them.

During this podcast we discuss enzootic abortion and toxoplasmosis; trace elements; ewe body condition scores; and tups including tup power required.

]]>71480084-08e3-4eb6-a5a5-d7b88da31adbThu, 31 Aug 2023 09:00:00 +000038:23falsefull2552Michael BlancheMichael BlancheIn this episode we hear from a well-known face and voice, Michael Blanche.  Michael is a first generation farmer and consultant with a passion for pasture and low-input livestock systems.  In recent years, Michael has developed the PasturePod, a series of podcasts that is not to be missed.

Related Materials

The Pasture Pod on Apple Podcasts

]]>In this episode we hear from a well-known face and voice, Michael Blanche.  Michael is a first generation farmer and consultant with a passion for pasture and low-input livestock systems.  In recent years, Michael has developed the PasturePod, a series of podcasts that is not to be missed.

Related Materials

The Pasture Pod on Apple Podcasts

]]>b9fa4306-0210-4550-b94f-a051262b52eaMon, 31 Jul 2023 09:00:00 +000001:16:36falsefull2442A View from ArgentinaA View from ArgentinaIn this podcast we hear from Argentinian farmer Allan Cameron. Allan talks to us about farming in Argentina including cropping and beef production. He covers the importance of soil health and the need for increased production to feed the increasing population. Government policy and climate change are also discussed with the differences in the farming industry between the UK and Argentina.

Linked FAS resources:

Finishing Options for Beef Cattle

Cover crop information note

Sustainable Beef Systems Series Flyer

External resources:

Farming For A Better Climate - Use of Cover Crops

]]>In this podcast we hear from Argentinian farmer Allan Cameron. Allan talks to us about farming in Argentina including cropping and beef production. He covers the importance of soil health and the need for increased production to feed the increasing population. Government policy and climate change are also discussed with the differences in the farming industry between the UK and Argentina.

Linked FAS resources:

Finishing Options for Beef Cattle

Cover crop information note

Sustainable Beef Systems Series Flyer

External resources:

Farming For A Better Climate - Use of Cover Crops

]]>6a7010e6-5c59-461b-87e0-165bd37dfc64Fri, 30 Jun 2023 09:00:00 +000040:26falsefull2332Beef & Sheep Nutrition - Planning AheadBeef & Sheep Nutrition - Planning AheadIn this podcast we hear from SAC’s livestock ruminant nutritionists Lorna Shaw and Karen Stewart. They discuss beef and sheep nutrition from grazing at grass through to planning winter rations and the silage you should be aiming to make for your class of livestock. They discuss opportunities to reduce concentrate feed use and the importance of prioritising classes of stock at certain times of the year who require a higher level of nutrition for maintenance and production.   

Linked FAS resources: 

FAS Beef Nutrition: 

Beef Nutrition | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) 

FAS Ruminant Nutrition and Forage Analysis: 

https://www.fas.scot/downloads/ruminant-nutrition-and-forage-analysis/  

]]>In this podcast we hear from SAC’s livestock ruminant nutritionists Lorna Shaw and Karen Stewart. They discuss beef and sheep nutrition from grazing at grass through to planning winter rations and the silage you should be aiming to make for your class of livestock. They discuss opportunities to reduce concentrate feed use and the importance of prioritising classes of stock at certain times of the year who require a higher level of nutrition for maintenance and production.   

Linked FAS resources: 

FAS Beef Nutrition: 

Beef Nutrition | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) 

FAS Ruminant Nutrition and Forage Analysis: 

https://www.fas.scot/downloads/ruminant-nutrition-and-forage-analysis/  

]]>8acd2036-e611-4dba-8817-1845c9a92d45Wed, 31 May 2023 09:00:00 +000033:02falsefull2222Cattle Foot Health with Hoof GPCattle Foot Health with Hoof GPIn this podcast we will hear from Graeme Parker aka the Hoof GP. Graeme tells us his story about his background and how his ‘Hoof GP’ online social media business has expanded alongside his cattle foot trimming work. His main aim is to share his knowledge of cattle foot health through these social media videos to farmers to allow them to make more informed choices around foot health.  

Hosted by Robert Ramsay, edited by Malcolm MacDonald, Produced by Kirstyn Blackwood, Executive Producer Kerry Hammond. In association with The Scottish Government.

Linked resources: 

The Hoof GP - YouTube 

]]>In this podcast we will hear from Graeme Parker aka the Hoof GP. Graeme tells us his story about his background and how his ‘Hoof GP’ online social media business has expanded alongside his cattle foot trimming work. His main aim is to share his knowledge of cattle foot health through these social media videos to farmers to allow them to make more informed choices around foot health.  

Hosted by Robert Ramsay, edited by Malcolm MacDonald, Produced by Kirstyn Blackwood, Executive Producer Kerry Hammond. In association with The Scottish Government.

Linked resources: 

The Hoof GP - YouTube 

]]>a4d1e753-f225-453d-957e-dfebb0d87e69Fri, 28 Apr 2023 09:00:00 +000056:49falsefull2112Rare Breed Survival Trust with Martin BeardRare Breed Survival Trust with Martin BeardIn this podcast we will hear from Martin Beard from the Rare Breed Survival Trust. Martin tells us about what the Rare Breed Survival Trust (RBST) does and the importance of genetic diversity within species. He also talks about the importance of marketing and the supply chain working well. He highlights the RBST conference which will be held on the 23rd March.

Linked Resources:

Rare Breeds Survival Trust (rbst.org.uk)

]]>In this podcast we will hear from Martin Beard from the Rare Breed Survival Trust. Martin tells us about what the Rare Breed Survival Trust (RBST) does and the importance of genetic diversity within species. He also talks about the importance of marketing and the supply chain working well. He highlights the RBST conference which will be held on the 23rd March.

Linked Resources:

Rare Breeds Survival Trust (rbst.org.uk)

]]>c663a3cd-49d2-461e-a56d-b615e3a365ffFri, 17 Mar 2023 09:00:00 +000044:55falsefull1212Michael Shannon from Damn DeliciousMichael Shannon from Damn DeliciousIn this podcast we will hear from Michael Shannon from Damn Delicious. Michael tells us his story from working in the seed business to where he is today running his mixed farm and has diversified his business to include Damn Delicious which direct sells his homegrown produce. Michael talks about his business goals and the influence New Zealand systems had on him and his business. Michael is passionate about food production and gives his opinion on its future in the UK. A relatively new enterprise he speaks about is the Christmas turkeys. He talks about the challenges running that enterprise and the satisfaction he gets from feedback on his produce.  

Linked Resources

HOME - Damn Delicious Butcher and Farm Shop Scotland 

Turkey Production | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) 

Delivering Quality Produce | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) 

]]>In this podcast we will hear from Michael Shannon from Damn Delicious. Michael tells us his story from working in the seed business to where he is today running his mixed farm and has diversified his business to include Damn Delicious which direct sells his homegrown produce. Michael talks about his business goals and the influence New Zealand systems had on him and his business. Michael is passionate about food production and gives his opinion on its future in the UK. A relatively new enterprise he speaks about is the Christmas turkeys. He talks about the challenges running that enterprise and the satisfaction he gets from feedback on his produce.  

Linked Resources

HOME - Damn Delicious Butcher and Farm Shop Scotland 

Turkey Production | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) 

Delivering Quality Produce | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) 

]]>8cac9ce4-c065-44f6-ab8e-41929f09ede7Tue, 28 Feb 2023 09:00:00 +000058:40falsefull1111SRUC Kirkton Research UpdateSRUC Kirkton Research UpdateIn this podcast we will hear from Nicola Lambe and Claire Morgan-Davies, who are based at SRUC Hill & Mountain Research Centre, Kirkton & Auchtertyre Farms. They talk about the projects they are involved in. One of Nicola’s projects is a breeding program at Kirkton where they are crossbreeding sheep to maximise efficiencies and with the aim of creating a composite breed.  Claire is involved in EU projects EuroSheep looking at issues in sheep farming across the EU and working on solutions to overcome these issues, the SMART project which is looking at technologies in sheep farming and the Take Care project.  They both highlight the importance of hill farming and are fairly positive about its future in the industry.  

Related Resources

EU Projects at Kirkton:

TechCare Project – Integrating innovative TECHnologies along the value Chain to improve small ruminant welfARE management (techcare-project.eu)

Sm@rt | Sm@ll Ruminant Technologies Platform (smartplatform.network)

EuroSheep | European Knowledge Exchange

Breeding Program

Breeding and management strategies for sheep in the Scottish hills and uplands to meet future economic, environmental and climatic challenges | SEFARI


]]>In this podcast we will hear from Nicola Lambe and Claire Morgan-Davies, who are based at SRUC Hill & Mountain Research Centre, Kirkton & Auchtertyre Farms. They talk about the projects they are involved in. One of Nicola’s projects is a breeding program at Kirkton where they are crossbreeding sheep to maximise efficiencies and with the aim of creating a composite breed.  Claire is involved in EU projects EuroSheep looking at issues in sheep farming across the EU and working on solutions to overcome these issues, the SMART project which is looking at technologies in sheep farming and the Take Care project.  They both highlight the importance of hill farming and are fairly positive about its future in the industry.  

Related Resources

EU Projects at Kirkton:

TechCare Project – Integrating innovative TECHnologies along the value Chain to improve small ruminant welfARE management (techcare-project.eu)

Sm@rt | Sm@ll Ruminant Technologies Platform (smartplatform.network)

EuroSheep | European Knowledge Exchange

Breeding Program

Breeding and management strategies for sheep in the Scottish hills and uplands to meet future economic, environmental and climatic challenges | SEFARI


]]>893956a5-366c-47a5-8428-42de79d9d825Tue, 31 Jan 2023 09:00:00 +000034:52falsefull1010Paddy Jack on Outwintering and Forage CropsPaddy Jack on Outwintering and Forage CropsIn this podcast we will hear from Paddy Jack, DLF Business Manager in Scotland. Paddy talks about the pros and cons of different forage crops, clover, and different grazing systems. The importance of growing crops which suit your farm type as well as type of stock grazing it was also discussed. With high input costs involved in keeping stock over the winter, there’s opportunities to outwinter stock to reduce costs. 

Linked FAS resources: 

Forage Crops | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

]]>In this podcast we will hear from Paddy Jack, DLF Business Manager in Scotland. Paddy talks about the pros and cons of different forage crops, clover, and different grazing systems. The importance of growing crops which suit your farm type as well as type of stock grazing it was also discussed. With high input costs involved in keeping stock over the winter, there’s opportunities to outwinter stock to reduce costs. 

Linked FAS resources: 

Forage Crops | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

]]>ee62e6f3-8839-4c11-aad4-c7d4883601a7Mon, 19 Dec 2022 10:15:00 +000056:48falsefull99Buffalo FarmBuffalo FarmIn this podcast we will hear from Jack Munro, Farm Manager from The Buffalo Farm. The Buffalo Farm run by Steve Mitchell in Kirkcaldy, is the largest Buffalo Farm in Scotland. Jack will tell us about how the buffalo herd got established and the progress and changes they have made along the way, including introduction of the dairy buffalo herd to make mozzarella. Jack also discusses opportunities for other farmers that are interested in going into buffalo dairy farming.   

Related Resources: 

The Buffalo Farm | Scotland’s largest Buffalo Farm and Butchery 

Contact email address for the Buffalo Farm: farm@thebuffalofarm.co.uk 

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub:

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

]]>In this podcast we will hear from Jack Munro, Farm Manager from The Buffalo Farm. The Buffalo Farm run by Steve Mitchell in Kirkcaldy, is the largest Buffalo Farm in Scotland. Jack will tell us about how the buffalo herd got established and the progress and changes they have made along the way, including introduction of the dairy buffalo herd to make mozzarella. Jack also discusses opportunities for other farmers that are interested in going into buffalo dairy farming.   

Related Resources: 

The Buffalo Farm | Scotland’s largest Buffalo Farm and Butchery 

Contact email address for the Buffalo Farm: farm@thebuffalofarm.co.uk 

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub:

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

]]>ac8df445-d804-41de-9abb-ebcd4979a393Fri, 18 Nov 2022 09:00:00 +000031:27falsefull88Livestock Worrying – Keeping yourself right with The Sheep GameLivestock Worrying – Keeping yourself right with The Sheep GameIn this podcast we will hear from Cameron Wilson from The Sheep Game. Cameron Wilson was a policeman for many years before going full-time in agriculture, between sheep pregnancy scanning, shearing sheep, as well as looking after his own flock of sheep and running his YouTube Channel and social media pages ‘The Sheep Game’.  

Cameron has experienced livestock worrying from the Police’s perspective and also from a farmer’s perspective. He will tell us about the do’s and don’ts when it comes to handling livestock worrying.  

Linked Resources

The Sheep Game - YouTube 

Sheep Worrying Advice for Lambing Time | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub:

Phone: 0300 323 0161

]]>In this podcast we will hear from Cameron Wilson from The Sheep Game. Cameron Wilson was a policeman for many years before going full-time in agriculture, between sheep pregnancy scanning, shearing sheep, as well as looking after his own flock of sheep and running his YouTube Channel and social media pages ‘The Sheep Game’.  

Cameron has experienced livestock worrying from the Police’s perspective and also from a farmer’s perspective. He will tell us about the do’s and don’ts when it comes to handling livestock worrying.  

Linked Resources

The Sheep Game - YouTube 

Sheep Worrying Advice for Lambing Time | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub:

Phone: 0300 323 0161

]]>59cf8ae0-5319-4448-b4a0-6d4eda3e3c77Thu, 27 Oct 2022 09:00:00 +000001:00:31falsefull77Deer Farming – what you need to knowDeer Farming – what you need to knowIn this podcast we will hear from the director of the Venison Advisory Service (VAS), Alan Sneddon, and the Estate Manager from Glenrinnes Estate, Alister Laing. They will both tell us about their background and share their knowledge and experience of deer farming. Alister will talk about the establishment of the deer enterprise at the estate which included capturing wild deer in a large enclosure. Alan will provide valuable advice and top tips to people who are considering going into deer farming. 


Linked FAS resources:


 Podcast: The Thrill of The Hill - Deer Farming & Management | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) 

Advice & Grants | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) 



For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot


National Advice Hub:

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

]]>In this podcast we will hear from the director of the Venison Advisory Service (VAS), Alan Sneddon, and the Estate Manager from Glenrinnes Estate, Alister Laing. They will both tell us about their background and share their knowledge and experience of deer farming. Alister will talk about the establishment of the deer enterprise at the estate which included capturing wild deer in a large enclosure. Alan will provide valuable advice and top tips to people who are considering going into deer farming. 


Linked FAS resources:


 Podcast: The Thrill of The Hill - Deer Farming & Management | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) 

Advice & Grants | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) 



For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot


National Advice Hub:

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

]]>97db62ad-28cb-4f18-88aa-f7940c4bd80dWed, 14 Sep 2022 09:00:00 +000033:05falsefull1661Sheep System Changes at SRUC Barony with Perry ParkinsonSheep System Changes at SRUC Barony with Perry ParkinsonIn this podcast we hear from SRUC Barony’s Head Shepherd Perry Parkinson, who will tell us a bit about his background and his work at SRUC Barony including the changes they have made to the sheep system. 


Linked FAS resources:

Breeding And Feeding For Sustainable Sheep Systems | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) 

 

Using Estimated Breeding Values In Sheep | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) 


For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot


National Advice Hub:

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

]]>In this podcast we hear from SRUC Barony’s Head Shepherd Perry Parkinson, who will tell us a bit about his background and his work at SRUC Barony including the changes they have made to the sheep system. 


Linked FAS resources:

Breeding And Feeding For Sustainable Sheep Systems | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) 

 

Using Estimated Breeding Values In Sheep | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) 


For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot


National Advice Hub:

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

]]>15762e3f-645c-4d15-a9e7-74b9a712be01Mon, 15 Aug 2022 09:00:00 +000033:15falsefull1551Sheep Systems & Grazing Strategies with Poppy FraterSheep Systems & Grazing Strategies with Poppy FraterIn this podcast we hear from SAC Sheep and Grazing Specialist Poppy Frater, who will discuss current issues, opportunities and options for sheep producers. Poppy will also talk about her PHD on grazing strategies and carbon sequestration as well as her opinion on the outlook of the sheep farming industry. 

Linked FAS resources: 

https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=giles+henry+grazing

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot


National Advice Hub:

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

]]>In this podcast we hear from SAC Sheep and Grazing Specialist Poppy Frater, who will discuss current issues, opportunities and options for sheep producers. Poppy will also talk about her PHD on grazing strategies and carbon sequestration as well as her opinion on the outlook of the sheep farming industry. 

Linked FAS resources: 

https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=giles+henry+grazing

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot


National Advice Hub:

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

]]>d8abd37e-724a-4f14-8776-1e6e8da2dd65Thu, 28 Jul 2022 09:00:00 +000028:34falsefull1441Pig Market UpdatePig Market UpdateIn this podcast we hear from SAC Consultant George Chalmers, who will discuss current issues, opportunities and options for pig producers. 

George’s consultancy work includes technical advice on livestock, nutrient management, fertiliser usage, crop agronomy as well as animal health and welfare advice. George has a special interest in the pig sector having facilitated the North East Pig Monitor Farm Project, as well as providing regular pig health and sector updates. 


Linked FAS resources: 

Link to Pigs section on the FAS website: 

Pig resources for farmers from Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) 


FAS ILMP & Specialist Advice: 

Advice & Grants | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)


For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot 

]]>In this podcast we hear from SAC Consultant George Chalmers, who will discuss current issues, opportunities and options for pig producers. 

George’s consultancy work includes technical advice on livestock, nutrient management, fertiliser usage, crop agronomy as well as animal health and welfare advice. George has a special interest in the pig sector having facilitated the North East Pig Monitor Farm Project, as well as providing regular pig health and sector updates. 


Linked FAS resources: 

Link to Pigs section on the FAS website: 

Pig resources for farmers from Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) 


FAS ILMP & Specialist Advice: 

Advice & Grants | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)


For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot 

]]>f55e641e-b6d8-451e-b278-2af59c20935cWed, 29 Jun 2022 09:00:00 +000026:52falsefull1331Dairy Industry UpdateDairy Industry UpdateIn this podcast we hear from SAC Dairy Specialist Lorna MacPherson, Kite Consulting’s Senior Dairy Specialist David Keiley and SRUC Veterinary Investigation Officer Colin Mason who discuss current issues, opportunities and options for dairy producers.

Linked FAS resources: 

FAS page dedicated to grassland and forage holds numerous valuable resources: 

Grassland and Forage | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) 

FAS Milk Manager News is a bi-monthly publication which contains up to date information relating to the dairy industry: 

Milk Manager News | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) 

]]>In this podcast we hear from SAC Dairy Specialist Lorna MacPherson, Kite Consulting’s Senior Dairy Specialist David Keiley and SRUC Veterinary Investigation Officer Colin Mason who discuss current issues, opportunities and options for dairy producers.

Linked FAS resources: 

FAS page dedicated to grassland and forage holds numerous valuable resources: 

Grassland and Forage | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) 

FAS Milk Manager News is a bi-monthly publication which contains up to date information relating to the dairy industry: 

Milk Manager News | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) 

]]>28f8900c-36b1-4c56-b67f-55d64f7518d9Tue, 07 Jun 2022 09:00:00 +000040:16falsefull1221Spring Update - BeefSpring Update - BeefIn this podcast we hear from SAC Beef Specialist Lesley Wylie and SRUC Veterinary Investigation Officer Timothy Geraghty who discuss current issues, opportunities and options for beef producers.

]]>In this podcast we hear from SAC Beef Specialist Lesley Wylie and SRUC Veterinary Investigation Officer Timothy Geraghty who discuss current issues, opportunities and options for beef producers.

]]>33ced4b8-ea0b-42f3-848c-6516f7e8cec2Fri, 29 Apr 2022 09:00:00 +000036:23falsefull1111