UK’s post-Brexit future

John Scott’s top tips

1. Grassland management.

Whilst we have improved our understanding of how we grow grass over the years we have so much still to learn, so effective utilisation of grass has to be a goal for 2019. Rotational grazing at certain times of year has made a huge difference to us and as we continue to develop this we are able to carry more stock per ha which in turn is increasing the livestock carrying capacity and profitability of the farm.

2. Technology

I’m a great believer in using technology wherever possible to make farming easier for those that are hands on. Our new auto drafter will make handling sheep a lot easier, and it will also allow us to build a picture for every ewe giving us a steer on how productive she is in her lifetime.

3. Culling strategy

We cull hard: feet, temperament, mothering ability and much more – passengers are not tolerated. The auto drafter will also assist us to cull based on performance. It’s vital that we identify underachievers which don’t contribute consistently on an annual basis.

4. Understanding our markets

We have a fairly good understanding of our markets and the main product we sell at Fearn is Scotch Lamb, the majority of which is sold to one abattoir which has a close link with a major retailer. We are keen to build on this and want to identify how we can strengthen links whilst optimising the spec of the lambs we sell. We like to think we do a good job but could we do it even better?

5. Health planning

Along with our vet we have drawn up a health plan that guides us through the year, it’s simple for all to follow and identifies what needs done on each farm at key points in the year.

6. Cost of production

Understanding and calculating cost of production is something that most farmers avoid, it’s not something that we often work out but as we evolve and take a more business minded approach this will become second nature.