QMS launches updated version of sward stick

Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) has launched an updated version of its sward stick for beef and sheep farmers.

The red meat levy body said the free, pocket-sized tool was designed to help farmers monitor grass growth and inform their grazing management decisions.

The original QMS sward stick proved incredibly popular and more than 5,000 were distributed to farmers across Scotland following its launch in 2015.

The tool consists of two parts – a measuring stick along with a small plastic board, which is used to slightly compress the grass to provide a consistent, accurate measurement.

The new tool contains the same base board but the data on the sward stick has been revised to better reflect late spring and summer grass growth in Scotland.

“At its most basic, the stick allows a sward height measurement to be taken,” said QMS knowledge transfer specialist, Emily Grant

“This enables farmers to ensure grass is at its optimum height for grazing.

“For sheep, this is between 4cm and 8cm, and for cattle between 4cm and 10cm.

“The stick converts the centimetre height into the kilos of dry matter for each of the different seasons.

“We know how much dry matter different classes of stock eat, so the stick allows you to check how much grass you have available on your farm, and whether there is sufficient to meet your livestock’s feed needs.”

Mrs Grant said farmers can order the new updated sward sticks direct from QMS by emailing info@qmscotland. co.uk or calling 0131 472 4040.

Emily Grant of Quality Meat Scotland.