On-farm events from Lantra

Lantra was delighted to secure a contract with the Environment Agency Wales under the catchment sensitive framework initiative, to run three more on-farm events in 2009.

These took place in the Wye and Usk catchment areas and demonstrated best practice, in addition to offering advice on how to limit the environmental risks posed by diffuse pollution from farms.

The Environment Agency, charged with improving the water quality in the UK’s rivers and catchments, chose to target those industries that can have a real impact on water quality. The agricultural livestock industry’s use of chemicals to control ectoparasites is fortunately one potential pollutant source that can be successfully combated with the help of farmers.

The guest speakers at the events covered:

Sheep ectoparasite control “understanding the enemy” – Dr Peter Bates VMEC
Sheep ectoparasite survey results – Hybi Cig Cymru
Manual and pesticide handling best practice demonstrations – Health and Safety Executive
Safe use of ATV demonstration – Health and Safety Executive
Using pour-ons; a practical demonstration – Ieuan Davies, Novartis
Sheep dipping; a guide to good practice – John Hughes, NPTC Assessor
Pollution prevention is better than enforcement – Nichola Salter, Environment Agency.

Picture taken at an on-farm workshop held in Wales on scab and lice control.

Images courtesy of Environment Agency Wales

Exhibitors included: Pfizer, Animax, NFU, Farmers Union of Wales, Farming Connect, Farm Liaison Service, local suppliers.

Iolo Jones, who kindly hosted one of the knowledge transfer events on his farm in Llanfyllin, Powys, commented: “There should be more events like this, as people need to be more enlightened about issues. As farmers we need to improve our public image and it helps to be aware of our legal and moral responsibilities towards the environment. ”

Lantra’s Regional Partnership Manager Richard Gough said: “This series of events built on the success achieved by five similar events delivered in 2008 which saw over 300 farmers receive advice on sheep ectoparasite control. Many farmers reported finding the information on identifying diseases and selecting correct treatments particularly useful. Topics covered included alternatives to sheep dip, such as injectables or pour-ons, and the correct handling and safe disposal of spent dip.

“The demonstrations gave tips on correct treatment application which can have a beneficial environmental impact and reduce the risk of self-contamination. Through these events the Environment Agency, this time working in partnership with FWAG Cymru, hope to be able to minimise diffuse pollution incidents occurring and protect farmers from prosecution.”

The events supported by the National Sheep Association, NFU, FUW and the Farm Liaison Team brought together partners such as Hybu Cig Cymru, Environment Agency, Health and Safety Executive and Novartis.