The Accidental Smallholder Forum
Livestock => Sheep => Topic started by: Fleecewife on December 22, 2020, 04:24:35 pm
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All sheep owners/producers in Britain are being urged to fill out the National Sheep Breed Survey
the deadline for submission is 11 Jan 2021
You can download the form plus find details of how to complete it at https://www.signetdata.com/technical/projects/sheep-breed-survey/ (https://www.signetdata.com/technical/projects/sheep-breed-survey/) (scroll down to the bottom)
Alternatively, you can contact AHDB for a copy via email signet@ahdb.org.uk or phone 02476 478829,
More information
The industry is at the point of great change – and 2020 survey would provide a benchmark against which to assess this change, with future policies (particularly in the hill sector) being better informed by up to date information
- This Survey will act as an important reference point for researchers, funders and policy makers
- It has been has been funded by The AHDB, QMS and HCC
- The survey is voluntary
- Since 1971, there have been 5 previous surveys . The last one was in 2012 – this had more than 100 different breeds represented and documented new breeds that were not previously recorded.
- Examples of why information gathered may be of use
An understanding of flock size within a breed will help inform researchers about potential selection pressure that can be achieved through genetic selection, and identifies barriers and opportunities for genetic gain.
- The survey also provides an indication of genetic diversity and highlights breeding lines that may be lost to the industry.
- Knowledge of the distribution of breeds across the UK helps inform researchers and policy makers about wider issues influencing sheep health and welfare, nutritional requirements and their environmental impact.
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I don't do sheep, but in such uncertain times for the future of UK sheep farming I can only think that all and any contributions to the survey will be a good thing.