Bronllwyd Fawr Project Introduction
Site: Bronllwyd Fawr
Address: Botwnnog, Pwllheli, Gwynedd, LL53 8HA
Technical Officer: Gwawr Hughes
Project Title: Sustainable options for managing lameness and reducing antibiotic usage in an intensive lowland sheep flock
Introduction to project:
The key to controlling lameness within sheep flocks is diagnosing lame sheep properly and adjusting management procedures in order to prevent lameness before treatment is required. The aim is to ensure that less than 2% of the flock is lame (Teagasc, 2019), however, this is not always achievable in some flocks. It is estimated that lameness can cost between £4-£14/ head, dependent on severity of cases. It is therefore crucial that lameness is managed and kept to a minimum to ensure a productive and profitable flock.
Lameness continues to be a major issue within Welsh sheep flocks and continues to contribute towards antibiotic usage in most cases. It is therefore crucial that sustainable control procedures for controlling lameness are implemented and antibiotic usage is minimised where possible. Contagious ovine digital dermatitis (CODD) currently affects 35% of Welsh farms (HCC, 2011).
Host farmers Gruffydd and Sion Thomas, are keen to evaluate the incidence of lameness within their flock and provide effective treatment based on proper diagnosis. The project will take into account sustainable options to reduce and control lameness, as well as reduce antibiotic usage in the process. This project aims to promote best practice in the sustainable management of lameness in an intensive lowland sheep system, however, the principles are broadly applicable to all sheep farming systems.
Project Aims and Objectives:
The main aim of this project is to diagnose the causes of lameness present in the flock and formulate a specific plan to first of all treat the existing cases and, thereafter, work towards reducing and controlling the issue. This project will provide a blueprint for similar lowland intensive sheep systems (which are housed pre-lambing and throughout the lambing period) on the most effective and sustainable methods of control, but more important – how to manage the issue. The project will also monitor antibiotic usage with the aim of reducing usage to a minimum.
Key Performance Indicators Set:
- Reduce lameness prevalence at Bronllwyd Fawr from 10% to <2% during the duration of the project.
- Reduce the mg of antibiotic used per kg of sheep on the farm.
Timeline and Milestones:
