New hill ram scheme will ‘benefit all sheep farms’
A NEW scheme for hill rams has been launched in Wales to help the sector produce better quality lambs through genetic improvement.
As the first of its kind in the UK, the Hill Ram Scheme aims to encourage more Welsh hill farmers to use performance-recorded rams.
A series of information evenings are being held in February with the ultimate aim of setting up a performancerecorded hill ram sale.
The five-year project was established with RDP funding by Hybu Cig Cymru (HCC), the Welsh meat body, and is one of three initiatives within its Red Meat Development Programme.
Farmers taking part will be using the latest technology, including DNA parentage, to monitor and record genetic data and key performance indicators.
HCC’s Gwawr Parry, who leads the scheme, said: “Typically Welsh hill flocks produce lighter lambs and traditional markets for these lambs have declined in recent years.
“The use of improved genetics in hill flocks will allow farmers to target growth and finishing – ultimately producing lambs that suit a wider range of markets.
“In a traditionally stratified system, hill ewes are an important part of lowland production and so the benefits will cascade through the whole Welsh lamb industry.”
Seven “leader” flocks have been recruited for the project’s first year.
These are run by hill farmers who produce a variety of native hill sheep breeds such as the Welsh Mountain North Wales-type and Improved Welsh.
Ultimately the target is to recruit 35 flocks across Wales, with newcomers mentored by leader flockmasters.
Participants will also receive support and training to market their flocks.
Gwawr said that, by increasing the efficiency of hill sheep systems, the project will make farms more financially resilient – and may lower carbon emissions too.
She added: “We believe it will have significant impact for Welsh hill farmers and the Welsh sheep industry overall.” ● Leader flockmasters in the Hill Ram Scheme have held an initial meeting at Innovis in Aberystwyth.