Benefits of adding sheep to arable rotation shown

A new report has highlighted the benefits of adding sheep to an arable rotation.

It details the advantages of grazing short-term crops such as stubble turnips or swedes, or planting longer-term grass and clover leys which may be growing for two or more years.

National Sheep Association (NSA) chief executive Phil Stocker said 50 years ago sheep were considered highly useful on arable farms.

“They supported the rotation and helped keep weeds and cereal pests at bay, while adding manure and nutrients following crops could use,” he said.

“Artificial fertilisers, herbicides and plant protection products, the specialisation of arable enterprises and the hassle factor of looking after animals, have all been responsible for the sheep sector’s sharp decline here.

“But now the tide seems to be turning as more arable farmers are looking to see how they can bring sheep back.”

The report highlights many advantages of keeping sheep on arable farms, including their beneficial effect on soil health and structure, how they can help control difficult weeds like blackgrass and improve the yields of subsequent crops.

It offers practical guidance on growing crops to feed sheep as well as infrastructure needed like fencing and water, while outlining additional rules and regulations which come with keeping animals.

Ron Stephen. Sheep on turnips near Eassie.