Podcasts about bluetongue

Today I had Neil on the R2Kast

The number of bluetongue cases since the first of July in the UK has now topped a thousand. That's nearly three times the number of positive cases for the whole of the previous year to that date. How are farmers feeling about the UK's largest ever outbreak of this livestock disease?There have been fears that livestock movement restrictions imposed to try to halt the spread of the outbreak could disrupt this autumn's big sheep sales, which play a critical role in the shepherding year. One of UK's biggest is Kelso Ram Sales took place this week in the Scottish Borders.The National Sheep Association estimates that every year around 200 farmers are affected by sheep rustling. We hear from a couple in Cumbria who realised they'd become victims of sheep rustlers with both rams and ewes missing from one of the fields they rent next to the busy A66.As farmers decide how they're going to manage next year's crops, the cost of fertiliser and fuel will be in the mix, but what if you could farm without fertiliser or diesel? We speak to a Cornish farmer who's putting this into practice on his farm and we visit a farmer who's set up a biomethane plant and is growing maize to produce energy.Farming without fossil fuels was on the agenda at a gathering of environmentalists this week. The Wild Summit in Bristol brought together more than 1000 people - campaigners, policy makers, scientists and farmers.Presenter = Caz Graham Producer = Rebecca Rooney

The number of bluetongue cases since the first of July in the UK has now topped a thousand. That's nearly three times the number of positive cases for the whole of the previous year to that date. How are farmers feeling about the UK's largest-ever outbreak of this livestock disease?There have been fears that livestock movement restrictions imposed to try to halt the spread of the outbreak could disrupt this autumn's big sheep sales, which play a critical role in the shepherding year. One of UK's biggest is Kelso Ram Sales, taking place later today in the Scottish Borders. The National Sheep Association estimates that every year around 200 farmers are affected by sheep rustling. We hear from Laura and Sean Robinson in Cumbria, who realised they'd become victims of sheep rustlers with both rams and ewes missing from one of the fields they rent next to the busy A66. Presented by Caz Graham and produced by Beatrice Fenton.

Send us Fan MailBlue tongue is not just a buzzword; it's a viral disease that poses real risks to livestock health. In this bonus episode of the QMS podcast, experts Colin Mason and Tim Geraghty join Robert and Kirsten to discuss the current state of blue tongue in the UK, particularly as it begins to affect areas where it was previously absent. This episode features discussion around the current Blue Tongue outbreak, its transmission, clinical signs, and vaccination strategies. Learn how to assess risk, plan vaccination, and manage your livestock effectively amid this emerging threat.Here is a link to all episodes of QMS's podcast https://qmscotland.co.uk/news-media/qms-podcast

As the UK experiences its worst ever outbreak of the livestock disease bluetongue, we find out how government vets and scientists are coping as they deal with thousands of cases. The trade union which represents them says morale is low and the workload is mountainous. They say more long term strategic planning is needed and better pay to address staff shortages.How well prepared are we for a major threat to our food security? Not quite well enough, according to the National Audit Office report on resilience in England's food supply chain.Plans for data centres on farmland in Scotland.Finding out exactly what species are in a river can be challenging, but environmental DNA sampling is a relatively new tool which can help. It can detect the presence of rare or invasive species by analysing genetic material in water.The farm vet with a passion for dung beetles. She's teaching livestock farmers how to use fewer medicines to help protect the ecosystems and insects on their land. There are only around eleven hundred calling male corncrakes in the UK, but that number may be about to grow.Presenter = Anna Hill Producer = Rebecca Rooney

As the UK experiences its worst ever outbreak of the livestock disease bluetongue, we find out how government vets and scientists are coping as they deal with thousands of cases. The trade union which represents them says morale is low and the workload is mountainous. They say more long term strategic planning is needed and better pay to address staff shortages.Scientists in Northern Ireland are using DNA methods to help identify the exact source of pollution in Lough Neagh. It's the fourth summer in a row that the lough has been blighted by blue green algae.As the Bayeux Tapestry goes on display at the British Museum in London, BBC Radio 4 has a range of programmes inspired by the Normans. We hear from food producers in Normandy whose apple harvest and cheese making have been affected by drought and climate change.Presenter = Caz Graham Producer = Rebecca Rooney

With the livestock disease bluetongue still spreading across the UK, we speak to a Dutch vet about how they coped with a massive outbreak there in 2023, and what we can learn. This week we've been looking at what crops farmers might grow in the future to cope with a changing climate - whether precision-bred crops, or turning to traditional varieties. And we're at a lavender farm in the Lake District. The farm uses several varieties of the aromatic herb, including those from Provence in France. Presented by Anna Hill and produced by Sally Challoner.

The drought, and the livestock disease bluetongue, are having an effect on milk production, with yield down by 1.5 milllion litres every day, according to the industry body the AHDB. The shortage is pushing up prices for farmers. We speak to a Dutch vet about how bluetongue developed there three years ago. They had a huge outbreak which led to the loss of tens of thousands of cattle and sheep. Since then a vaccine has been developed. And we're looking at future crops, bred to be resilent in a changing climate. Today we meet a breeder at the James Hutton Institute in Dundee to sample some new varieties of raspberry. Presented by Anna Hill and produced by Sally Challoner.

More cases of the livestock disease Bluetongue have prompted the Scottish Government to impose tighter movement restrictions. It's the first year the midge-borne disease has reached Scotland. There are fears it could disrupt the up-coming ram sales season which involves the movement of thousands of sheep. With the weather so unpredictable and extreme this year, we're taking a look this week at how we can grow food differently, or use different crops. We speak to a scientist at the National Institute for Agricultural Botony who says it's not just new varieties, but repurposing heritage crops. And we meet a sixteen year old in Northern Ireland who's come up with an app to help farmers manage their time better. Presented by Charlotte Smith and produced by Sally Challoner .

Could government-backed crisis loans help cash-strapped farmers recover from drought and keep Britain producing food? This week, we examine industry proposals for a Keep Britain Growing Loan – an interest-free, government-backed scheme planned for farmers. With the bluetongue outbreak continuing to spread northwards, we hear why livestock producers are being urged to vaccinate susceptible cattle and sheep as soon as possible. We look at China’s drive for greater food self-sufficiency and what it could mean for global agricultural markets. And a new report called From Risk to Reward examines the financial cost of switching to regenerative farming. If farmers lose money during the transition, should food companies and the wider supply chain shoulder more of the risk? This episode is brought to you by Bayer CropScience - weeding out uncertainty. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction01:02 – Could crisis loans keep farmers farming?04:30 – Would the loans make a difference?09:46 – Autumn Drilling Update with Bayer Cropscience11:44 – Bluetongue spreads further across Britain17:05 – Is it too late to vaccinate?17:57 – Preparing for bluetongue in 202723:34 – Harvest, autumn cultivations and SFI27:07 – China targets greater food self-sufficiency30:06 – Markets33:16 – Who pays for regenerative farming?39:02 – Should food companies share the risk? Guests Alex Godfrey – Lincolnshire farmer and chairman, GB PotatoesRachel Banks – technical manager, Bayer CropscienceClaire Wise – acting national livestock chair, NFUMandy Nevel – head of animal health, AHDBJoe Stanley – head of sustainable farming, Allerton Project Useful Links Keep Britain Growing LoanBluetongue – latest situationBayer weed management adviceRegenerative agriculture and NestléAllerton ProjectFrom Risk to Reward This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Edited and produced by Johann Tasker. To get in touch with the Farmers Weekly Podcast: - Contact or follow Johann: linkedin.com/in/johanntasker/ Contact or follow Louise: linkedin.com/in/louise-impey-95470b20b/ Contact or follow Hugh: linkedin.com/in/hugh-broom-9b11906a/ For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow linkedin.com/company/farmers-weekly To contact, sponsor or advertise on the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome back to the Rural Round-up. On today's episode George Chalmers and Tiffany Stephenson discuss Bluetongue, updates to greening guidance for 2027 and updates to the Future Farming Investment Scheme (FFIS), as well as other key considerations for Autumn 2026.TimestampsHow are things in the borders? 00:27Bluetongue 03:30Greening guidance for 2027 06:25Future Farming Investment Scheme (FFIS) 16:00EFA Hedge cutting guidance 22:17NVZ closed period dates 23:46Taking stock of what you have before winter feeding. 27:11Soil sampling 28:49Managing grass for tupping 29:47FAS ResourcesFarming in Water Scarcity https://www.fas.scot/news/farming-in-water-scarcity/Other ResourcesBluetongue Latest updates can be found here: Gov.uk latest BTV updatesBluetongue Clinical signs in sheep are usually more pronounced than in cattle but can be very variable. A range of photos can be found here: https://ahdb.org.uk/clinical-signs-of-bluetongue.Suspect cases should be reported to APHA Scotland on 03000 600 704.The Ruminant Health and Welfare website has various Bluetongue resources for vets and farmers including a vaccination decision maker tool (Battle Bluetongue vaccination decision maker tool)FFIS 2026 Update https://www.ruralpayments.org/news-events/future-farming-investment-scheme-2026-announced.htmlGreening guidance 2027: https://www.ruralpayments.org/topics/all-schemes/basic-payment-scheme/basic-payment-scheme-full-guidance/greening---bps/greening-guidance/For more information, visit www.FAS.scotTwitter: @FASScotFacebook: @FASScotNational Advice HubPhone: 0300 323 0161Email: advice@fas.scot

Supplies of the vaccine for the livestock disease Bluetongue are in short supply after a large outbreak in the south west of the UK. A mild winter, hot dry summer, and the midges - which cause the disease - moving into densley populated livestock areas, have all contributed to the worst ever outbreak, which has now affected Wales and Scotland too. We speak to the president of the Sheep Veterinary Society about when we can expect more vaccines.All this week we're looking at solar farms. Today we're in Staffordshire where the country council has launched a campaign called “Stop the Solar Land Grab”. The council is particularly concerned about the effect three solar farms will have on the community of Drointon. And the hot weather has been good news for the UK's increasing number of vineyards. But winemakers in Devon and Cornwall say it's left them in "uncharted territory.” One new challenge is how to replicate their normal crisp flavours because the heat changes the taste of the grapes. Presented by Caz Graham and produced by Sally Challoner.

The Prime Minister's due to announce a package of support to help farmers in England cope with the drought. The measures will include putting an extra £50 million of Defra's budget towards this year's Sustainable Farming Incentive and offering up to £15 million for on-farm reservoirs, to enable farmers to store water in the winter which they can use in the summer. As well as drought and heat, livestock farmers are staving off an outbreak of bluetongue - it's a disease which affects cattle and sheep, but not humans. The South West is dealing with hundreds of cases, mostly in sheep in Devon, Cornwall and Somerset. However there've been cases in Northern England and Wales as well, and for the first time ever, a couple of cases in Scotland.Brassica growers say the sector's in crisis. Farmers say crops like brocolli and cauliflower are dying in the fields because of the drought and extreme heat.The hot weather means demand for salad is up but when it's too hot, the crops don't like it - and nor do the pickers. We visit a grower in Lancashire where workers are picking by torch-light to avoid the heat.Vitamin B12 is essential for our diets, it's found in meat, fish, eggs and dairy products, but not in plants, or not until now, that is: scientists have developed a way of fortifying peashoots with B12 and hope to get them in supermarket salad bags in the next year or two. This summer marks the end of an era for the Thompson family and their berry farm at Blairgowrie, in Perthshire, one of Scotland's most important soft fruit growing areas. The Thompsons have decided to end commercial production because they say the business is no longer economically viable. Presenter = Caz Graham Producer = Rebecca Rooney

Bluetongue, the livestock disease that is transmitted by midges, is spreading, especially in the south west. It affects farm animals including sheep and cattle. It doesn't affect people, but it can be very painful and fatal to livestock. Annual bluetongue statistics are counted from July to June, the so-called bluetongue season. Since the end of June this year, there have already been more cases than in the whole of the previous season. Hundreds of farmers in Devon, Cornwall and Somerset are coping with the virus in their sheep, in particular. We visit a farmer near Exeter whose flock is just beginning to emerge from a bout of bluetongue.We import more than 80% of fresh tomatoes, and more than 50% of lettuce. However, new analysis from the environmental think-tank The Green Alliance suggests that if the UK replaced half of fruit and vegetable imports with homegrown produce, it would generate nearly £2 billion for the economy and make us more self-sufficient in food production than we've been for the last 25 years. Vitamin B12 is essential for our diets and is found in meat, fish, eggs and dairy products, but not in plants - until now. Scientists have developed a way of fortifying pea shoots with B12 and hope to get it in supermarket salad bags in the next year or two. After successful trials, agri-tech company Lettus Grow and the John Innes Centre believe it could work for other crops too. B12's very expensive, but growers say they've developed a super-efficient way of getting it into the pea shoots.Presenter: Caz Graham Producer: Rebecca Rooney

With bluetongue cases continuing to rise this season, The AG Show team's focus is on South West England, one of the hardest-hit parts of the country, to find out what it's really like on the ground.We catch up with a Cornish beef, sheep and arable farmer whose livestock have been affected, and hear from a Devon-based vet about just how busy things have been, plus the latest on vaccination efforts.The message is clear: don't wait until bluetongue is on your doorstep before taking action. Support and advice are available through the AHDB Bluetongue Virus Hotline on 024 7771 0386.Plus, we look at how this summer's heatwaves have added to the challenges facing UK dairy farmers and what it could mean for the months ahead.SOME USEFUL BITS (FROM AHDB & BEYOND)Bluetongue virus latest news | AHDBBluetongue virus update - 5 August 2026 | AHDB WebinarHow have the recent heatwaves impacted GB milk production? | AHDBHot weather and heat extremes | AHDBDry weather and drought | AHDBSupport for farmers | AHDBGET IN TOUCHCharlotte, Hannah, Phil and Producer Martin would love to hear what you think! Got feedback, stories, or ideas for future episodes? Drop them a message at agshow@ahdb.org.uk.Sign up to the AHDB Preference Centre so that you can:Easily update your preferences and contact informationGet information on the latest AHDB events, webinars, market insights and moreReceive important updates such as disease alerts

Livestock farmers in Devon, Cornwall and Somerset are at the centre of the current outbreak of bluetongue and cases are rising rapidly. Bluetongue can be fatal to animals like sheep and cattle but doesn't affect humans, it's spread by midges, and makes animals lethargic and lame as well as causing birth defects or spontaneous abortions. The Farming Community Network has a 24 hour help line: we ask them about the impact the disease is having on farmers in the South West of England. As England and Wales are set to enter the fifth heatwave of the summer, almost three-quarters of England is now in drought. The National Drought Group has added the East Midlands, Lincolnshire & Northamptonshire, Kent & East Sussex, and Solent & the South Downs into drought status. The prolonged lack of rain in some places is having a major impact on farming and food production in the UK and Europe. We speak to a farmer from Copa Cogeca which represents European farmers and farming cooperatives.We're talking about UK salad production all this week. Unseasonably hot weather doesn't just increase our demand for lettuce, tomatoes and other salad crops, it also has an impact on how they well they grow, the diseases they might catch, and the working conditions of those planting and harvesting them.Presenter = Caz Graham Producer = Rebecca Rooney

As drought conditions worsen across England, MPs demand urgent government action to safeguard water supplies for food production. South Norfolk MP Ben Goldsborough says farmers need more flexible abstraction licences, simpler rules for building reservoirs and adequate support. We examine Defra’s new £1.5m Farmer Welfare Grant and ask whether improving personal resilience can help farmers navigate increasingly volatile weather, markets and government policy. Meanwhile, grain marketing consultant Richard Whitlock warns growers to carry out due diligence when selling grain as profitability among merchants comes under pressure. And we celebrate 150 volumes of the Aberdeen Angus Herd Book – and ask how genetics and data could shape the breed’s next 150 years. Guests * Ben Goldsborough – Labour MP for South Norfolk* Samantha “Sammy” Seaman – farm leadership, mindset and resilience coach* Richard Whitlock – grain marketing consultant* Robert Gilchrist – chief executive, Aberdeen-Angus Cattle Society Chapters 00:55 – Farmers demand their fair share of water01:25 – Ben Goldsborough: “Drier than Jerusalem”02:28 – Abstraction licences and regulation03:16 – Food security versus data centres03:48 – What farmers can do05:35 – Is Defra listening?08:17 – What help do drought-hit farms need?10:57 – A climate “doom loop”?14:37 – Bayer Autumn Drilling Update16:55 – £1.5m Farmer Welfare Grant17:20 – Samantha Seaman on handling pressure20:01 – Building resilient farm businesses23:25 – Can farmers bounce back?26:31 – Bluetongue situation worsens30:57 – Sustainable Farming Incentive update32:27 – Harvest quality surprises34:47 – Be careful who buys your grain36:47 – Checking your grain buyer38:30 – Commodity markets41:27 – Aberdeen Angus at 15042:29 – Why Aberdeen Angus endures43:17 – Genetics, DNA and lower emissions49:30 – Closing remarks Useful links - Rural Payments Agency extreme weather guidance- Defra Farmer Welfare Grant- Samantha Seaman Coaching- Richard Whitlock – grain merchant analysis- Bayer Crop Science weed management- Aberdeen-Angus Cattle Society This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Edited and produced by Johann Tasker. To get in touch with the Farmers Weekly Podcast: - Contact or follow Johann: linkedin.com/in/johanntasker/ Contact or follow Louise: linkedin.com/in/louise-impey-95470b20b/ Contact or follow Hugh: linkedin.com/in/hugh-broom-9b11906a/ For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow linkedin.com/company/farmers-weekly To contact, sponsor or advertise on the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chief reporter Rachael Brown and head of news and business Jane Thynne analyse the ongoing surge of bluetongue in the South-West, vaccine availability and testing capacity, as well as the growing threat of the disease elsewhere in the UK. They hear from a farmer in Cornwall who has been impacted by the virus, and a local farm vet who shares some of the signs and symptoms of what to look out for and highlights the misinformation circulating about the vaccine and the virus itself. Message us

Along with our regular monthly updates on policy, cereals, beef, sheep and milk, in this edition we also have a spotlight on the pig sector. Show Notes00:34 News in Brief 06:09 Policy Briefs – Scottish Pig Producers Support Scheme, New calls to boost Scotland's wildfire response, Scotland bans glue traps, Cracks appear over the future of brown eggs. 11:29 Cereals – Latest news and market update 20:11 Beef – Latest news and market update 25:56 Sheep – Latest news and market update 31:24 Milk – Latest news and market update 40:05 Sector focus – Pig sector 46:25 Further articles – Soil Moisture Monitoring (FAS articles), Mains of Errol: From Field to Punnet (FAS TV), Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (FAS Video). FAS Links and Resources: Newsletters - Business & Policy Edition - Farm Advisory Service advice@fas.scot Other Links and Resources: www.ruralpayments.org Rural Priorities - Greening Introduction and updates Scottish Pig Producers Support Scheme Scottish Pig Producers Support Scheme: how to apply - gov.scot pigproducers.support@gov.scot Wildfires Strategic Action Plan Scotland bans glue traps Wildlife Management and Muirburn (Scotland) Act 2024 Publications: Avian influenza (bird flu): how to spot and report the disease Swine fever: how to spot and report the disease Bluetongue: how to spot and report the disease SEPA Water scarcity levels and reports Island Resilience Fund 2026-2027 Online Sessions Bluetongue movement restrictions: 1 June - 9 September 2026 https://www.ruralpayments.org/news-events/agricultural-census-2026.html Soil Moisture Monitoring: Technology for Modern Irrigation Management Understanding Portable Soil Moisture Meters Mains of Errol: From Field to Punnet Disease Surveillance Part 4 - Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS) Agri Culture podcast - Finding Your Tribe For more information, visit www.FAS.scot Facebook: @FASScot National Advice Hub Phone: 0300 323 0161 Email: advice@fas.scot

Farmers are being 'strongly urged' to vaccinate sheep and cattle to protect them from the rapid spread of bluetongue. The UK's chief vet says vaccination is the only way to deal with the disease. There are now more than 200 farms with cases in the UK, more than double the number this time last week. The vast majority are in England, with most in the South West. In Wales there've been five. There are none in Scotland or Northern Ireland. The disease is spread by midges and this year's heatwave means the midges and the virus are replicating much more quickly. There is a vaccine but previously take up was low. We speak to the National Sheep Association and the UK's chief vet.Harvest 2026 has been the earliest in England for at least 20 years. Yields have suffered from the heat and a lack of water, leaving farmers counting the cost. All week we've been hearing harvest stories from around the UK and asking what impact all this will have on food, prices and the future for British farming. We visit Northamptonshire where they've been harvesting at the crack of dawn to ensure the wheat's not too dry, and hearing from a miller who says the quality of British milling wheat this year is very good. In Perthshire, Scottish farmers have been dodging the rain to bring in the barley. Growers in Berkshire, who're cultivating their dry dusty fields ready to plant oilseed rape, are wondering whether they'll be growing next season's crops at a loss.We also speak to a plant scientist who says the DNA of ancient varieties of wheat could hold the key to breeding future crops which are more resilient to climate change. Presenter = Charlotte Smith Producer = Rebecca Rooney

While Chris Walkland may be away this week, but he still joins the programme with his latest milk market report, we then kick off in episode 305 of Kite Podcast by discussing a very important subject, Will Evans and Ben Eagle are joined by Rebecca Cavill of Torch Farm Vets and Laura Roberts of Sandstone Vets, alongside Devon farmer Jenny Hookway and producer Becki Reay. The conversation explores the signs and symptoms of Bluetongue, the differences between virus strains, the impact on farms and livestock movements, and why vaccination remains the most important tool in reducing disease spread. Rebecca highlights the significant number of affected holdings seen by her practice and explains how vaccinating cattle, the main carriers of the virus, can help reduce infection levels and limit transmission by midges. The panel also shares practical advice for farmers on preparing for the months ahead and supporting each other through a challenging period. The discussion also covers the signs farmers should be looking out for in both cattle and sheep, the impact on livestock movements, shows and sales, and what to do if you suspect infection on your farm. With vaccine demand increasing and supplies coming under pressure, the message from the panel is clear: if you're considering vaccination, don't delay. Please note: The information provided during this podcast has been prepared for general informational purposes only and does not constitute advice. The information must not be relied upon for any purpose and no representation or warranty is given as to its accuracy, completeness or otherwise. Any reference to other organisations, businesses or products during the podcast are not endorsements or recommendations of Dairy Consulting Ltd or its affiliated companies. The views of the presenter are personal and may not be the views of Dairy Consulting Ltd. The contents of this podcast are the copyright of Dairy Consulting Ltd.

Farmers are being 'strongly urged' to vaccinate sheep and cattle to protect them from the rapid spread of bluetongue. The UK's chief vet says vaccination is the only way to deal with the disease. There are now 130 cases, more than double the number this time last week. The vast majority are in England, with most in the South West. Wales has four cases, there are none in Scotland or Northern Ireland, and here cases means farms affected rather than individual animals with the disease. Bluetongue can make sheep and cattle lethargic and lame, it can cause birth defects or spontaneous abortions and it can be fatal. The disease is spread by midges, originally they were blown over from Europe but now they, and the virus, survive the winter here. This year's heatwave means the virus and midges are replicating much more quickly. It doesn't affect human or food safety. There is a vaccine but take up has been low. We ask the National Sheep Association why that is, and speak to the Chief Veterinary Officer who says scientists expect the virus to peak in September. Across much of England and Wales the heatwave and drought has meant an early harvest and poor yields, in much of Scotland things are different. There's been hot and dry weather earlier in the summer but now it's rain that's making things difficult.Presenter = Charlotte Smith Producer = Rebecca Rooney

The Agriland team bring you the biggest stories of the week in Irish agriculture, which this week includes:Brittany Ferries to end livestock transport;€124 million worth of beef imported into Ireland up to end of May;External review ordered after Tyrone cattle cull;Bluetongue cases in Britain surpass 70 in just one month;Monaghan man breaks world record after reversing tractor and trailer nearly 70km.Don't forget to rate, review and follow The Farming Week, Agriland's weekly review of Irish agriculture, and visit Agriland.ie for more.

This week on The AG Show, we're catching up with a first-generation dairy farmer to hear how a programme built to support ambitious entrepreneurs helped them secure a farm tenancy in Dorset and take the next step in their farming journey.We'll also get the inside track on a brand-new tool set to help cereal growers tackle Barley Yellow Dwarf Virus, plus the latest on the bluetongue situation (which is a good opportunity to plug AHDB's bluetongue virus hotline: 024 7771 0386).And that's not all. We catch up with AHDB's new Beef and Lamb Director, Prys Morgan, and round things off by digging into the world of lamb grading and why it matters.SOME USEFUL BITS (FROM AHDB & BEYOND)Dairy Entrepreneurs | RABDF Training ProgrammeCereal growers asked to help develop a new BYDV management tool | AHDBBluetongue Virus Hub - Ruminant Health & WelfareSupport for farmers | AHDBPrys Morgan appointed as new Beef & Lamb Sector Director | AHDBUnderstanding lambs and carcases | AHDBGET IN TOUCHCharlotte, Hannah, Phil and Producer Martin would love to hear what you think! Got feedback, stories, or ideas for future episodes? Drop them a message at agshow@ahdb.org.uk.Sign up to the AHDB Preference Centre so that you can:Easily update your preferences and contact informationGet information on the latest AHDB events, webinars, market insights and moreReceive important updates such as disease alerts

The whole of Wales and half of England are now officially in drought. For farmers the impacts are huge. There are concerns about a shortage of feed for livestock and cereal yields are down. The Environment Agency in England says it will step up controls on how much water can be taken from rivers and groundwater. The National Farmers Union has called for a more modern abstraction system, saying we're still using regulations which are 50 years old. The environmental charity River Action says too many businesses are taking water from rivers, and the government should review the abstraction licence system. It says that trillions of litres of water are being taken from rivers, lakes and aquifers every year.There's been a rise in cases of bluetongue this summer. The disease is spread by midges and can have a devastating impact on cattle and sheep. We hear from a farmer who lost a third of his calves due to the virus, and a scientist who says the hot weather is accelerating the spread.All week BBC local radio stations in England have been focusing on agriculture, as part of this year's Farmwatch reporters have looked at food inflation and what rising costs mean for producers. We also hear from an inspiring young farmer in Cornwall, who has got his own dairy herd - comprising one Jersey cow.Presenter = Charlotte Smith Producer = Rebecca Rooney

Sheep farmers are being urged to consider vaccination as a surge in bluetongue cases causes serious losses across south-west England. We have the latest on the worsening outbreak, the risks associated with livestock movements and whether vaccination makes financial sense. We also examine the impact of extreme heat and drought on this year’s harvest. Soil scientist Danni Robb explains why high temperatures can damage grain yields, how warmer nights affect crops and what growers can do to improve resilience. Plus, we discuss forage shortages, chickpea prices, straw and wool insulation, and the latest farm commodity prices. And Louise visits the winner of the 2026 Silver Lapwing Award – and sees how farming goes hand-in-hand with outstanding environmental management in Gloucestershire. This episode is brought to you by crop protection specialists Certis Belchim. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction00:57 – Surge in bluetongue cases hits sheep farms01:19 – Philippa Page and Phil Stocker assess the outbreak03:03 – Should farmers vaccinate before tupping?04:55 – Hugh Broom on sheep losses in south-west England07:48 – Certis Belchim message: managing take-all in cereal crops09:29 – Heat, drought and poor harvest yields11:06 – How warm nights affect wheat yields12:16 – Which crops have performed better?13:28 – Varieties, soil health and climate resilience24:11 – Podcast updates and listener feedback25:40 – Chickpea prices and imported competition27:03 – Warning over adding moisture to stored grain27:38 – The environmental impact of free-range eggs31:09 – Hugh tries British wool insulation33:06 – This week’s farm commodity prices35:24 – Frampton Court Estate wins the Silver Lapwing Award36:05 – Peter Clifford on agroforestry and farm partnerships37:35 – Funding environmental work in the future42:07 – Closing remarks Guests * Philippa Page, president, Sheep Veterinary Society* Phil Stocker, chief executive, National Sheep Association* Dani Robb, soil scientist, Ceres Research* Peter Clifford, Frampton Court Estate Useful links * Bluetongue guidance* Bluetongue vaccination guidance* National Sheep Association* Sheep Veterinary Society* British Society of Soil Science* Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group* Silver Lapwing Award* Frampton Court Estate This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Edited and produced by Johann Tasker. To get in touch with the Farmers Weekly Podcast: - Contact or follow Johann: linkedin.com/in/johanntasker/ Contact or follow Louise: linkedin.com/in/louise-impey-95470b20b/ Contact or follow Hugh: linkedin.com/in/hugh-broom-9b11906a/ For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow linkedin.com/company/farmers-weekly To contact, sponsor or advertise on the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Half of England is now officially in drought. The Environment Agency says it will enhance its monitoring of water levels and crucially for many farmers, step up controls on how much water can be taken from rivers and groundwater. The BBC's local radio stations have been devoting the day to agriculture and as part of this Farmwatch the BBC has been looking at the price of food and how much of what we pay goes to farmers. According to the Consumer Price Index from May this year, families are paying 9% more for beef products, 2% more for bread rolls and 8% more for bagged salad than they were 12 months ago. However, producers at the start of the food chain say the extra cash doesn't end up in their pockets.Cases of the cattle and sheep disease bluetongue are on the rise: there have been 24 in the UK since the beginning of the month, the majority in the South West of England and three in Wales. Scotland and Northern Ireland haven't had any cases. The disease is spread by midges and can have a devastating impact on livestock from spontaneous abortions to birth defects and death. Presenter = Charlotte Smith Producer = Rebecca Rooney

The Agriland team bring you the biggest stories of the week in Irish agriculture, which this week includes:Bluetongue case in Tipperary;Michael Kelly for trial for murder of farmer;Victor Boyhan on succession in Seanad;Fuel subsidy scheme extended and €26 million savings for DAFM being sought;Bloom starts.Don't forget to rate, review and follow The Farming Week, Agriland's weekly review of Irish agriculture, and visit Agriland.ie for more.

The Agriland team bring you the biggest stories of the week in Irish agriculture, which this week includes:Details of €100 million Fuel Support Scheme revealed;ICOS warns of 'enormous financial challenge' to secure fertiliser for 2027;Call for flat-rate addition to align with livestock VAT rate;Farm plastics recycling shake up to give farmers more choice;Bluetongue cases now confirmed in 7 counties;What is the latest outlook for land prices and rents?Glanbia, Carbery and Kerry Group announce financial results;Aurivo and Tirlán present awards for milk quality;BISS applications surpass 78,000 as deadline approaches.Don't forget to rate, review and follow The Farming Week, Agriland's weekly review of Irish agriculture, and visit Agriland.ie for more.

This week, Stephen is joined by Gary, Adam, Darren, and Aidan to discuss the recent rise in fuel prices and what it means for contractors. Adam covers the EU-Australia Free Trade Agreement, the beef trade and the bluetongue vaccine scheme. Darren investigates how the trade for light cattle is powering ahead despite pressures on beef price, and Aidan has the latest on the proposed Aurivo and Dale Farm merger, now off the table.We also hear from Stephen Carey of Grassland AGRO on maximising production while reducing nitrogen costs.To register for our Beef Markets Event which takes place on Monday 30 March in Abbeyleix Manor Hotel, please fill in this form: https://share-eu1.hsforms.com/1IPlLKS7IQlalWpNjVPXHAgets9ehttps://go.alltech.com/focus-for-100 Join the Farm Tech Talk communityWe welcome any feedback and questions you have for the Farm Tech Talk team. Please email farmtechtalk@farmersjournal.ie or send a text or voice note to our WhatsApp number 086 836 6465Click here if you would like a weekly email notification when Farm Talk is released https://share-eu1.hsforms.com/1LkIraRklQcK5mClBGXTpFgets9e Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Agriland team bring you the biggest stories of the week in Irish agriculture, which this week includes:Farm orgs slam government fuel cost measures100ac of silage set to cost €2,855 extra as diesel soars;Irish farmers face fertiliser shortages over Middle East conflict;'Relentless' price cuts hit beef finishers;EU and Australia sign free trade agreement;Aurivo and Dale Farm announce 'strategic partnership';Proposed animal transport rules to 'effectively end' live exports;Bluetongue vaccine to be included in welfare schemes;DAFM issues lead poisoning warning.Don't forget to rate, review and follow The Farming Week, Agriland's weekly review of Irish agriculture, and visit Agriland.ie for more.

This week, Stephen chats to Adam on Bluetongue vaccines, to Darren on entitlements in CAP, to Aidan on the Aurivo and Dale Farm merger, while Lorcan Roche Kelly chats about Input prices. Aidan also talks to John Brennan from Grassland AGRO about management on farms. https://go.alltech.com/focus-for-100 Join the Farm Tech Talk communityWe welcome any feedback and questions you have for the Farm TechTalk team. Please email farmtechtalk@farmersjournal.ie orsend a text or voice note to our WhatsApp number 086 836 6465Click here if you would like a weekly email notification whenFarm Talk is released https://share-eu1.hsforms.com/1LkIraRklQcK5mClBGXTpFgets9e Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With lambing and spring calving now in full swing, the AG Show team checks in with a vet to get the lowdown on what the Bluetongue virus could mean for the newest arrivals in your flock or herd.We also dig into how the conflict in the Middle East might shake up nitrogen supplies and impact other farm costs.And with shoppers feeling the pinch from rising food prices, we hear about a new study looking into what really influences their choices when they're picking up red meat in-store.SOME USEFUL BITS (FROM AHDB & BEYOND)Bluetongue Virus Hub - Ruminant Health & WelfareBTV-3_Factsheet_A4_260224.inddBluetongue virus webinars | AHDBMiddle East escalation and potential implications for nitrogen and farm costs | AHDBConsumer insights: Meat shopper journey | AHDBGET IN TOUCHCharlotte, Hannah and Producer Martin would love to hear what you think! Got feedback, stories, or ideas for future episodes? Drop them a message at agshow@ahdb.org.uk.Sign up to the AHDB Preference Centre so that you can:Easily update your preferences and contact informationGet information on the latest AHDB events, webinars, market insights and moreReceive important updates such as disease alerts

The Agriland team bring you the biggest stories of the week in Irish agriculture, which this week includes:Bluetongue movement restrictions ease;Jobs at risk at North Cork Creameries;Impact of US-Iran conflict;IFA protest ends and Bord Bia review to start;Mercosur deal provisionally applied;TAMS ranking and selection;Pneumonia on farms;International Year of the Woman Farmer ambassador.Don't forget to rate, review and follow The Farming Week, Agriland's weekly review of Irish agriculture, and visit Agriland.ie for more.

On this week's show, the team brings you up to date on the bluetongue cases in Ireland, discuss the ongoing row between IFA and Bord Bia and hear from the Minister on TB. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Charles O'Donnell, Stella Meehan and Breifne O'Brien bring you the biggest stories of the week in Irish agriculture from Agriland, which this week includes:Larry Murrin's committee appearance;Bluetongue latest;Contractors' 2026 prices;Key EU commissioners in Ireland on CAP;Home heating oil thefts.Don't forget to rate, review and follow The Farming Week, Agriland's weekly review of Irish agriculture, and visit Agriland.ie for more.

In this special episode, Adam Woods is joined by Darren, Aidan and deputy chief veterinary officer Eoin Ryan to break down what Irish farmers need to know about bluetongue. From animal health and movement restrictions to prevention and on-farm decisions, the panel answers farmers' questions and delivers clear, practical guidance on the challenges facing farms right now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Adam chats about the Bluetongue situation in Ireland and Bord Bia while Daire discusses the impact of Storm Chandre. Darren discusses SCEP amendment date and Siobhan talks aboutStraw imports.Farm Tech Talk is growing and we want you to be a part of its future. Go to www.ifj.ie/fttsurvey to fill out our survey and you could win a farm bucket full of Irish Farmers Journal merchandise.Join the Farm Tech Talk community — your feedback keeps us growing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Inside the Farmers Journal: bluetongue hits Irish shoresDescription: The incursion of bluetongue to Ireland, flooding in the south east, Bord Bia controversy and CAP all feature this week.Farm Tech Talk is growing and we want you to be a part of its future. Go to www.ifj.ie/fttsurvey to fill out our survey and you could win a farm bucket full of Irish Farmers Journal merchandise.Join the Farm Tech Talk community — your feedback keeps us growing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Charles O'Donnell, Aisling O'Brien and Francess McDonnell bring you the biggest stories of the week in Irish agriculture from Agriland, which this week includes:Bluetongue confirmed in Ireland;IFA begin rolling protest outside Bord Bia;Bord Bia chair to appear before Oireachtas committee;Irish EU Commissioner 'regrets' move to refer Mercosur to court;DII disappointed by no new dairy access in India trade deal;Splash-plate slurry spreading allowed on land with steep hills;Where are the agri ministers heading for St. Patrick's Day?Don't forget to rate, review and follow The Farming Week, Agriland's weekly review of Irish agriculture, and visit Agriland.ie for more.

A meeting is due to be held this morning by the Department of Agriculture to discuss the first detected case of the bluetongue virus in the Republic as the virus was found in a cattle herd in Wexford Speaking to Jonathan on this was Dennis Drennan, President of the Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers Association.

John Donlon, Lecturer in Veterinary Medicine at Atlantic Technological University.

Lumpy Skin Disease continues to spread in Europe, Bluetongue was recently found in Northern Ireland for the first time and bird flu was found in dairy cows for the first time in Wisconsin. Could these diseases suddenly slow milk production growth faster than the market is expecting?

For this week's episode of the Dairy Edge, in conjunction with Catherine Egan of the Beef Edge and Ciaran Lynch of OviCast, we talk to John Donlon, veterinary lecturer in Atlantic Technological University about bluetongue. John first describes the disease and explains how it presents in sheep, cattle, alpacas and other cloven hooved animals. He then explains how, in reality, the risk period should have passed at this stage of the year as midges that act as the vector for the disease should be gone by now. The cold weather is a help in that midge activity will be reduced or eliminated but that doesn't mean the risk isn't still there. People must remain vigilant and notify their vet and relevant authorities in the event of suspecting an animal has bluetongue. Trading implications could exist were a case to be identified in the Republic which would have ramifications for livestock movements, but currently there are no restrictions as the country is still bluetongue free. If a case were to be discovered, vaccines are available to reduce the severity of the disease but one would have to get an emergency license from the Department of Agriculture. Careful monitoring of stock for any signs are advised and swift notification, if identified, to facilitate rapid control is advised. For more episodes from the Dairy Edge podcast go to the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/ The Dairy Edge is a co-production with LastCastMedia.com

Rural traditions, from morris dancing to dry stone walling and tartan weaving, could be internationally protected by UNESCO. The government has launched its search for examples of living heritage to go onto an inventory.With dairy companies continuing to cut the prices they pay farmers for milk, the man appointed to ensure fairness and transparency in the UK agricultural supply chain says he'll be watching out for any breaches in the coming months. Richard Thompson is the first in the new adjudicator role, looking first at the dairy supply chain. His report says some farmers are still afraid to speak out in case of reprisals.The UK has temporarily banned all imports of pig products from Spain after an outbreak of African swine fever in wild boars there. It's Spain's first case since 1994. The disease is spread by ticks and can be devastating to commercial herds. The National Pig Association here says it's vital our government puts adequate controls at borders to keep the disease out.The first cases of bluetongue disease In Northern Ireland have been confirmed. Two cows on a farm in County Down have the disease with a further 44 in the same herd suspected of having it. A 20km control zone has been implemented around Bangor in County Down. There have been more than 200 cases in England and Wales since July this year, though none in Scotland so far. This year's summer drought has cost arable farmers in England an estimated £828 million. The think tank the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit says crops were hit by a very hot spring and summer as well as the resulting lack of water.All week we've been looking at winter jobs, including hedge laying and tidying sheds.Presenter = Charlotte Smith Producer = Rebecca Rooney

Andrew Muir, Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and Alliance Party MLA for North Down, on suspected cases of bluetongue virus confirmed as BTV-3 near Bangor Co.Down.

The UK has temporarily banned all imports of pig products from Spain afrer an outbreak of African Swine Fever in wild boars there. It's their first case since 1994. The disease is spread by ticks and can be devastating to commercial herds. The National Pig Association here says it's vital our government puts adequate controls at borders to keep the disease out. Northern Ireland has had its first case of bluetongue, in County Down. The government has introduced a 20km restriction zone to control the spread. There have been around 200 cases in England and Wales this year, though none in Scotland. A farmer is calling on the Scottish Government to fund a multi-million pound dairy development programme, which would encourage farmers to keep cows with their newborn calves for longer. David Finlay has been pioneering the unconventional system on his farm near Kirkcudbright - which is now the largest commercial 'cow-with-calf' dairy in Europe. And all this week we're looking at the jobs farmers need to do over winter - today, cleaning up ready for next season. Presented by Anna Hill and produced by Sally Challoner.

Conor Geraghty, Chair of Medicines at Veterinary Ireland, as a suspected case of the Bluetongue virus is discovered in Northern Ireland.

For more on this Dr Gerald Barry,assistant professor of virology at UCD.

Twenty tonnes of illegal meat and animal products have been intercepted at Dover in September alone according to Dover's Head of Port Health and Public Protection. Lucy Manzano tells us the amount of illegal meat her staff are seizing is 'escalating'.The way deprivation is measured in the UK means the challenges facing rural areas aren't taken into account. That's the conclusion of "Pretty Poverty", a new report from Plymouth Marjon University. It argues that rural hardship could be "hidden behind scenic views" and that factors like needing to own a car in remote areas with poor public transport aren't taken into consideration.All week we've been looking at livestock markets, we catch up with farmers who say Cockermouth Mart in Cumbria is a vital social hub. We visit a mart on the English Welsh border to find out how the sector's coping with bluetongue restrictions and we speak to Dr Carrie Batten the bluetongue expert at the World Organisation for Animal Health and Head of the National Reference Laboratory for the disease at the Pirbright Institute Every autumn pigs are released into the New Forest for the ancient tradition of "pannage". The pigs gobble up acorns from the thousands of oak trees in the Forest - and it's a bumper crop this year. Good news for fattening pigs, but bad news for ponies and cattle for whom the acorns are toxic.Presenter = Charlotte Smith Producer = Rebecca Rooney