Welsh Sheep Genetics Programme
What is the Welsh Sheep Genetics Programme?
The Farming Connect Welsh Sheep Genetics Programme (WSGP) offers sheep farmers in Wales technical and financial support, guidance and advice to strengthen their flock’s performance, improve productivity and increase profitability through performance recording and improving genetics.
By working closely with world-leading genetic experts, Innovis, and AHDB-Signet, the programme focuses on supporting farmers to performance record their flocks and use EBVs to their full potential to improve their flock’s performance.
What will you gain by taking part?
Learn how to use EBVs to maximise your flock’s breeding potential, by selecting for key traits relevant to your own flock.
Create a breeding action plan with clear recommendations on steps you should take to improve the quality of your flock including performance recording and analysis of key data.
Expert advice to ensure your sheep make genetic progress, achieving better flock health and increasing your business profitability.
Learn more about key developments within sheep genetics and take part in ground-breaking research.
Programme Structure
The programme is split into two tiers, Tier 1 and Tier 2.
As well as targeted support for upland and hill sheep breeds within Tier 1, through the inclusion of Tier 2, the programme also offers support to specific maternal breeds within the eligibility criteria limited to: Lleyn, Romney, Charmoise Hill and Bluefaced Leicester.
Applications for both tiers will be open to flocks currently recording as well as flocks who are new to performance recording.
Eligibility criteria can be found here. Please ensure that you read this carefully before applying.
What will the programme involve, and what would I need to do?
By applying and being offered a place on the programme, you will be required to:
Decide which is the best option for your flock - manual recording (tagging at birth) or DNA recording (using DNA for parentage) Both have advantages, it depends what suits your system best. Please speak to a Genetic Officer if you have any questions on manual vs DNA recording. DNA & Manual Recording protocols can be found on the ‘Useful materials’ page on our website.
Commit to collecting core performance recording data and submitting as and when required in order to gain EBVs for your flock.
Attend knowledge transfer activities to widen your knowledge on genetic improvement and how it can benefit your flock.
A full funding breakdown explaining how much funding is available can be found here.
How do I apply?
Applications for Tier 1 and Tier 2 flocks are now open. Please read the above information, and linked documents carefully before submitting your application.
The deadline for all applications is 12pm 28th October 2024.
Please note: There is a limited number of spaces available, therefore successful candidates will be selected based on meeting eligibility requirements and on a first come first served basis.
