Union to Help with Fodder Supply and Demand
The prolonged winter weather across Scotland has prompted NFU Scotland to put in place measures to help source and distribute stocks of fodder to its farmers.
With Dumfries and Galloway, South Ayrshire, Arran and Kintyre still struggling under the weight of snow that fell last weekend, sourcing fodder may be a priority for these parts. However, the prolonged winter across Scotland – which comes on the back of a poor year in 2012 – means that poor grass growth could put pressure on fodder reserves up and down the country.
The Union is looking to put those needing stocks in touch with those with supplies and are asking those interested to contact 0131 472 4059. This number will be manned over the holiday weekend.
NFU Scotland Chief Executive Scott Walker said:
“Concerns over fodder supplies were flagged up last autumn in our wet weather survey with many farmers banking on an early spring to allow them to turn animals out of winter housing onto grass. That patently has not happened and there is pressure on all livestock enterprises to eke out valuable fodder stocks.
“Worries about fodder supplies will be most acute in parts swamped by last week’s snow storms but the long, cold spring has affected the whole of Scotland.
“We will look to build up a picture of where stocks are available and where they are needed and if possible facilitate fodder deliveries.
“We are urging farmers looking for fodder or with stocks to spare to use the fodder helpline number or make contact with their regional manager or their group secretary. That will allow us to establish what demand for fodder is out there and whether it is an area we need to direct more resources to.”
Ends
Contact Bob Carruth on 0131 472 4006
Date Published: 29/03/2013
News Article No.: 45/13
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