Big freeze takes toll on farmers and livestock

Event organisers also forced to reschedule two weekend shows

Winter weather is wreaking havoc across Scotland and farmers and crofters are battling sub-zero temperatures to keep livestock fed and watered.

And as well as working hard to clear snowdrifts on their own farm roads, many farmers have been out helping clear public roads, towing stranded cars and in some cases helping transport people to hospitals and vital medical appointments.

According to NFU Scotland president Andrew McCornick, the bad weather experienced across the country is further proof of the difficult, but vital, job farmers, crofters and growers do.

He praised producers for braving arctic conditions to keep Scotland’s food chains running and shop shelves stocked, but said the union had received many calls from concerned farmers.

“Many of our members are struggling because of the snow and stormy conditions, with road closures and access issues causing problems for dairy and livestock farmers,” added Mr McCornick.

“The immediate impact of this is that many dairy farmers are not getting their milk collected and are being forced to dispose of it in their slurry after a days’ milking.

“We are hopeful that collections for these farms will return to normal at the weekend but with the weather being so unpredictable it is hard to say.

“Livestock farmers, particularly those with hard to access grazing are beginning to struggle to get fodder to their stock in the fields. We are keeping an eye on the situation and if the bad weather continues some assistance in the areas may be required.”

The weather has resulted in two events planned for today being rescheduled. The store cattle show and sale at United Auctions, Huntly, will now take place next Saturday, with the National Stallion Show next Sunday.

Pictures: Paul Viviani/ From top: a tractor clearing snow near Murthly, Perthshire, a dog resting amid a snow drift at Hollycroft Farm near Blairgowrie, and sheep near Perth.