Lambing roadshow in Bridgnorth offers key advice

 Independent sheep consultant Nerys Wright will speak at each of the events, with one planned for Bridgnorth in January,  to offer advice and highlight the benefits to farmers on improving ewe performance and lamb health.

“Using farm production data, scanning results, lamb growth rates and ewe performance, I will explain how ewe health has never been more important," said Miss Wright. 

"The events will focus on good nutrition, and using body condition scoring as a management tool in the run up to lambing." 

Supported by livestock health specialist Nettex, the free to attend events will provide insight into managing the last six weeks of pregnancy and how careful monitoring of ewe nutrition can improve both ewe and lamb health.

“Managing both energy and protein levels at a critical time of pregnancy is crucial to the success of lambing and the health of newborn lambs," she added.  

"I will cover how much energy ewes need, how much is likely to be provided by feed and forage and how any gaps can be filled." 

She suggests that both rumen degradable protein (RDP) and digestible undegradable protein (DUP) are indicators that contribute to ewe health before and after lambing.

“Assessing ewe condition, using body condition scoring, is a topic I covered in my PhD," she added. 

"I have models demonstrating the BCS scale of 1 to 5 that I can share with those who attend the events.  

"Ensuring ewes don’t mobilise too much bodyfat, to the detriment of future performance, means that supplements may be worth investing in,” she said. 

The talk, which will last approximately 45 minutes, will also cover the impact of lamb performance in the first eight weeks following birth.

“Ewe condition will have a significant impact on the weight of lambs in those early weeks," she said.  "If managed well it will also play a part in how well ewes recover from pregnancy and weaning to prepare for next season."  

The Nettex & Rumenco Lambing Roadshow will visit The Down Inn, Ludlow Road, Bridgnorth,  on January 15, 6.30pm for 7pm start.

This event is kindly hosted support from Hutchinsons. Those wishing to attend should RSVP emma.farlow@hlhltd.co.uk before January 8.