SAC Consulting

The last two winters in Scotland have proven to be amongst the coldest in living memory. 

The prolonged freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall experienced over large parts of the country presented livestock farmers with a series of challenges. During those cold spells many producers battled to maintain suitable shelter and feeding for their stock, while farm buildings suffered damage as a result of accumulated snow. Although conditions have now improved, many farmers continue to face problems such as a chronic lack of preserved forages and straw for bedding.

On the these pages you will find specific advice produced by the team of SAC beef and sheep consultants, nutritionists and veterinary surgeons, with funding provided by the Scottish Government as part of the Animal Welfare Advisory Activity. This guidance is divided between general information for all farmers, and more specific advice for suckler beef and sheep producers. This includes management advice on livestock welfare during periods of severe weather, as well as guidance on how best to cope with the repercussions of the prolonged cold snap.