Free events to explore worm-tolerant sheep breeding open to farmers
25th April 2023
Sheep farmers and industry professionals are invited to a series of free events taking place in Cornwall next month to learn about the results of a pilot study exploring the potential of introducing worm-tolerant genetics into flocks.
Matthew and Pippa Smith have been farming sheep at Trefranck for several years, and currently run a flock of 800 ewes.
Disease caused by gastrointestinal roundworms costs UK sheep farmers an estimated £42m every year in wormer treatments and productivity losses.
To tackle the growing problem of roundworm resistance, Matthew and Pippa Smith, who farm a flock of 800 sheep at Trefranck Farm in Cornwall, have been working alongside CIEL (Centre for Innovation Excellence in Livestock), Moredun Research Institute, and Castle Veterinary Group on a Defra-funded project looking at breeding worm-tolerant sheep.
Passionate about efficient and sustainable grass-based farming systems, Mr Smith said the prospect of worm-tolerant sheep presents an exciting opportunity for farmers in the fight against parasitic nematodes.
“We’re grateful for the support from our partners in this farmer-led study, which provides hope for sheep farmers challenged by worm resistance,” he said.
To provide a platform for farmers and industry professionals to discuss the results of the pilot study, Matthew and Pippa Smith are hosting two events – an Industry Awareness Day on Tuesday May 16 from 4pm to 7pm and a Farmer Awareness Day on Wednesday May 17 from 10am to 2pm – on their farm in Launceston, Cornwall.
“There will be discussion stations with vets, farmers, researchers and practical demonstrations throughout the day and we’re really excited to see what others make of this potential solution and provide us with feedback,” Mr Smith added.
Dr Mark Young, head of innovation at CIEL, commented: “The pilot has identified an efficient system for identifying genetically superior, worm-tolerant sheep. The next step is to define a breeding strategy and to roll this out industry-wide as quickly as possible.
“Selective breeding for worm-tolerant animals could help lead to improved growth rates while reducing anthelmintic use and associated labour needs, leading to increased financial returns.”
Farmers who wish to attend the events must register before Monday 1st May. For more details and to book free tickets, visit: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/online/worm-tolerant-sheep/?page=1
