A joint SAC/industry initiative to develop a new research strategy for SAC’s hill farms at Kirkton and Auchtertyre by Crianlarich has been launched with the full backing of the SAC Board and NFU Scotland.
Date:
Thu, 20 Oct 2011
Source:
SAC
SAC:
Website
Speaking on behalf of the SAC board and management at a press briefing in Stirling, Henry Graham said: "This is the start of a journey, but the board are right behind this new strategy for future research on the farms.
"We have committed money and appointed staff and will support the work of the new advisory group. They will help guide the research programme and act as a link between the industry and scientists as they seek a viable way forward for sheep and cattle in the hills and mountains.
"There is increasing confidence in the sector but there are still a lot of issues to address."
The new advisory group, which met for the first time after the press briefing, will carry on the work of a strategy group, set up by SAC board and NFUS. It consisted of four hill farmers, three SAC staff, and one each from QMS and the National Park Authority.
The plan involves rebuilding the full sheep stock, introducing a small hill cow herd, and using these to study and identify the economic possibilities of hill farming. There will be particular focus on the role of sheep genetics, particularly with ewe health and longevity.
Read more about this SAC research initiative.
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