The Agricultural Industries Confederation has launched the Feed Adviser Register (FAR) to assure the standards of advice in livestock nutrition, particularly in terms of addressing the needs of the Greenhouse Gas Action Plan.

While the production and safety of animal feed is assured by the various schemes operated by AIC Services (FEMAS, TASCC and UFAS), there has been no corresponding standard to underpin the advice that accompanies feed onto farm.

The Feed Adviser Register, officially launched on 1 May 2013, aims to provide a way for livestock advisers to demonstrate professional competence. FAR also demonstrates to Government that industry is actively addressing the challenges within the Greenhouse Gas Action Plan to reduce emissions from livestock.

Initially, FAR will establish a common level of competence across various livestock classes. It will adopt a ‘manager-verified’ approach whereby those who are employed by companies will have their level of competence approved by their managers.

“FAR will be largely web-based, through a dedicated website www.feedadviserregister.org.uk in order to minimise operating costs,” said John Kelley, Managing Director of AIC Services. “The Register has been devised by the industry for the industry and we aim to deliver a cost-effective service.”

The annual cost has been set at £105/year, but AIC members are eligible for a £45 discount to reflect the Confederation’s investment in developing the Register. In addition, further ‘early bird’ discounts are available for those who sign up early.

The website will allow registration and provide a wealth of information on training, relevant events and much more.

Feed advisers and animal nutritionalists with two years or more proven experience can join the Register as full members. For those with less experience and new entrants, there is a ‘development’ status registration. On-going membership will require verification of core competencies.

“Training is an important element of the Register and the website provides a wealth of resources to help develop skills and facilitate training,” said George Perrott, Head of AIC’s Feed Sector.

For established advisers, FAR provides a way to regularly update their knowledge, especially in newer areas such as reducing emissions from livestock. It will also help new entrants and their employers devise training programmes for career advancement. For individuals working alone, FAR will have procedures for assuring qualifications.