Sheep farmers are being encouraged to get to grips with worm control, a production threat that continues to cost the industry millions of pounds a year.

With the right training and equipment farmers can accurately carry out faecal egg counts (FEC), giving them a better understanding of roundworm problems on farm and allowing for more targeted treatments when needed.

With a focus on reducing the dependence on wormers, it is important to find out the worm burden of sheep on the farm. Without knowing this information, drenching could be carried out unnecessarily. FEC tests can also be used to determine the efficacy of treatments used.

As such IfA is running two courses for sheep farmers to learn the basics on on-farm FEC testing in October.

The training will be delivered by independent sheep consultant Catherine Nakienly of KN Consulting.

“Faecal egg counts are a really useful tool for lamb producers and when combined with performance records can help transform flock performance,” says Catherine.

“Whilst not difficult to master it is important to understand what FECs can and can’t tell us about the flocks worm burdens and a basic understanding of the science behind worm control is vital. With this in mind the course aims to provide a sound introduction into how FECs can be used regardless of whether the long-term aim is to carry out your own testing or to work with your vet to really get to grips with the worm burden on your farm.”

Places on this course are limited to 15 people on a first come first served basis. The cost of the course is £45 and includes lunch and refreshments. For members of IfA participating agricultural societies there is a 50% discount.

You are welcome to bring along samples with you on the day.

To book your place please visit www.rase.org.uk/events.

For further information or any queries, call Charlotte Johnston on 07779572598 or email charlottej@rase.org.uk

Draft programme:

Introduction
Getting to Grips with Worm Control
Introduction to Faecal Egg Counting - the Science
Introduction to Faecal Egg Counting - a practical session
The Next Steps - Moving forward with the flock

Dates and venues:

Wednesday 15th October - Hartpury College, Gloucestershire (12-4pm)
Thursday 16th October - Duchy College, Cornwall (10.30-2.30pm)