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Technical Notes

TN642: Tan spot in winter wheat

Tan spot in winter wheat (PDF: 398 kB)

Authors: Neil Havis

ISBN: 1854829211  Published: Nov 2011

An outbreak of tan spot, caused by the fungus Pyrenophora triticirepentis occurred in wheat crops in East Lothian, Scotland in 2010 and 2011. While this disease is a common problem in Denmark and France it has not been recognised as a major threat to Scottish wheat crops until now. This Technical note will help you identify the disease in your crops and provide advice on how to manage it.

TN641: Utilising Maternal Trait EBVs of Beef Bulls

Utilising Maternal Trait EBVs of Beef Bulls (PDF: 441 kB)

Authors: Kirsty Moore, SAC

ISBN: 1854829203  Published: Sep 2011

Beef bulls have a major impact on the quality of the UK suckler herd as all suckler cows are sired by a beef bull. To improve the efficiency of the national herd it is therefore essential that the bulls used to breed heifer replacements, be it from the suckler herd or the dairy herd, carry the genetics to improve the maternal characteristics of their daughters.

TN640: Condition Scoring of Sheep (Web Version)

Condition Scoring of Sheep (Web Version) (PDF: 818 kB)

Authors: Elspeth Scott, Siobhan Macdonald and Brian Hosie (Donald Harrison acknowledged for initial text)

ISBN: 1854829165  Published: Jan 2012

Condition scoring is a simple and very effective tool to improve the productivity of a sheep flock and also to minimise animal welfare problems. Assessing the condition score of ewes within the flock provides indicators for future ewe management and of deficiencies in past ewe management. It allows the adjustment of ewe nutrition to try to maximise productivity and reduce health and welfare problems associated with lean or overfat body condition.

TN640: Condition Scoring of Sheep (Print Version)

Condition Scoring of Sheep (Print Version) (PDF: 897 kB)

Authors: Elspeth Scott, Siobhan Macdonald and Brian Hosie (Donald Harrison acknowledged for initial text)

ISBN: 1854829165  Published: Jan 2012

Condition scoring is a simple and very effective tool to improve the productivity of a sheep flock and also to minimise animal welfare problems. Assessing the condition score of ewes within the flock provides indicators for future ewe management and of deficiencies in past ewe management. It allows the adjustment of ewe nutrition to try to maximise productivity and reduce health and welfare problems associated with lean or overfat body condition.

TN639: Management for bumblebees - how farmers can bring back the buzz

Management for bumblebees - how farmers can bring back the buzz (PDF: 524 kB)

Authors: Sandra Stewart and Bob Dawson

ISBN: 1854829157  Published: Jun 2011

Bumblebees are a crucial insect group for pollination of vegetables, fruit, oilseeds, legumes and fodder crops. Maintaining healthy bumblebee populations means that bees and other pollinators can quickly respond to the presence of mass flowering crops – an ‘on call’ service. In the UK there have been major declines in many social bumblebee species over the past 70 years, and two national extinctions. Over a third of social bumblebees are UK Biodiversity Action Plan priority species.

TN638: Diagnosis of Herbicide Damage in Potatoes

Diagnosis of Herbicide Damage in Potatoes (PDF: 389 kB)

Authors: Mark Ballingall

ISBN: 1854829114  Published: Apr 2011

Glyphosate is widely used in cereals crops as a harvest aid, to control couch grass, as a desiccant in oilseed rape and to clean up stubbles and fallow land to name but a few uses. It has a label for pre-emergence weed control in potatoes and to control volunteer potatoes. However, where it comes into contact with a growing potato crop, either from spray drift or sprayer contamination, it can be lethal at high doses to the growing crop but even low doses can contaminate daughter tubers.

TN637: On-farm biosecurity strategy for a notifiable disease outbreak for a beef or sheep farm: the 4S’s

On-farm biosecurity strategy for a notifiable disease outbreak for a beef or sheep farm: the 4S’s (PDF: 335 kB)

Authors: Brian Hosie and Dave Roberts

ISBN: 1854826  Published: Feb 2011

Beef and sheep farmers should agree a system with their vet to implement if a relevant disease outbreak is confirmed in the UK. The basis of the strategy must be to act quickly initially and then lower the level of measures when the circumstances allow it rather than to wait and possibly implement measures when it is too late.

TN636: Control of Sheep Scab and other Ectoparasites of Sheep

Control of Sheep Scab and other Ectoparasites of Sheep (PDF: 568 kB)

Authors: Brian Hosie

ISBN: 1854829068  Published: Feb 2011

In Scotland sheep scab became notifiable to the local Divisional Veterinary Manager of Animal Health under the Sheep Scab (Scotland) Order 2010. Sheep scab is one of the most contagious diseases of sheep in Britain. The disease seriously affects the welfare of sheep and has a significant economic impact through its effect on the condition of ewes, the growth rate of lambs, damage to wool and reduced quality of sheepskins. The other common ectoparasites of sheep (lice, ticks and flies) have serious economic significance.

TN635: Recommended grass and clover varieties 2010-2011

Recommended grass and clover varieties 2010-2011 (PDF: 234 kB)

Authors: PA Shipway, LJ Baker, G Carr and A Drysdale

ISBN: 1854828924  Published: Jan 2011

The varieties listed overleaf are recommended for use in Scotland. First choice varieties are highlighted by capitals. Recently introduced first choice varieties are provisional ratings, pending further trials currently in progress.

TN634: Ensuring good welfare for out-wintered suckler cows

Ensuring good welfare for out-wintered suckler cows (PDF: 500 kB)

Authors: C A Morgan, C M Dwyer, G Hill and B G Lowman

ISBN: 1854829017  Published: Feb 2011

Studies over several years at SAC and on commercial farms have demonstrated the benefits that can be obtained from out-wintering pregnant suckler cows. There are obvious reductions in housing and bedding costs and there are also benefits in the health of the cows, all of which can be obtained without a substantial increase in the costs of feeding when the appropriate forage crop and conserved fodder are used.

TN633: Phosphorus, potassium, sulphur and magnesium recommendations for cereals, oilseed rape and potatoes

Phosphorus, potassium, sulphur and magnesium recommendations for cereals, oilseed rape and potatoes (PDF: 282 kB)

Authors: Alex Sinclair, Peter Shipway and Stuart Wale

ISBN: 1854828991  Published: Sep 2010

Phosphate, potash, sulphur and magnesium recommendations for cereals, oilseed rape and potatoes have been updated in the light of current advances in understanding of soil nutrient management and results from recent trials. The efficient and profitable use of organic and manufactured fertilisers in arable systems requires good soil conditions and effective soil management.

TN632: Fertiliser recommendations for grassland

Fertiliser recommendations for grassland (PDF: 285 kB)

Authors: Alex Sinclair, Peter Shipway, Bill Crooks

ISBN: 1854829009  Published: Aug 2010

The main limitations to grass production are temperature, moisture, soil pH, soil drainage and structure, and nitrogen (N). This technical note can be used along with PLANET Scotland, a software tool designed for routine use by Scottish farmers and consultants to plan and manage nutrient use on individual fields (http://www.planet4farmers.co.uk).

TN631: Potato Tuber Pests

Potato Tuber Pests (PDF: 402 kB)

Authors: Andy Evans

ISBN: 1854828940  Published: Sep 2010

A Technical Note detailing the identification and integrated control of tuber pests. There are a variety of pests that feed below the soil surface on potato roots and tubers. Most of these pests can be detected and population estimates obtained prior to planting and managed through the use of resistant cultivars and pesticide use.

TN630: Potato Storage Diseases

Potato Storage Diseases (PDF: 401 kB)

Authors: Fiona Burnett, Simon Oxley

ISBN: 1854828894  Published: Aug 2010

Advice on how to increase potato yields and marketability by preventing diseases during storage. Details diseases and how to control/prevent them. Also provides information on disease resistant/less susceptible varieties of potato.

TN629: Management of species rich grasslands

Management of species rich grasslands (PDF: 421 kB)

Authors: Christine Hall

ISBN: 1854828843  Published: Sep 2010

The species-rich grasslands referred to in this Technical Note are the naturally occurring, unimproved grasslands that support a diverse range of wildflowers. These may be grasslands on neutral soils, calcareous grasslands found on base-rich soils or wet grasslands found on damp soils. Some acid grasslands can also be species-rich. The Technical Note provides guidance on good practice to protect, manage and if necessary restore these grasslands.

TN628: Land Management For Butterflies

Land Management For Butterflies (PDF: 404 kB)

Authors: Helen Bibby

ISBN: 1854828797  Published: May 2010

This Technical Note provides guidance on best practice land management to support and encourage butterflies and their habitats.

TN627: Barley Disease Control

Barley Disease Control (PDF: 1.6 MB)

Authors: Simon Oxley & Fiona Burnett

ISBN: 1854828746  Published: Apr 2010

This note contains up to date information about the management of winter and spring barley diseases. There is new information on varietal resistance, integrated control management fungicide programmes and fungicide resistance.

TN626: Black-grass: Managing The Risk Under Scottish Conditions

Black-grass: Managing The Risk Under Scottish Conditions (PDF: 277 kB)

Authors: Mark Ballingall

ISBN: 185482869x  Published: Jan 2010

This technical note covers the current black-grass situation in Scotland. It presents a picture where, through climate change, populations could become similar to those in parts of England.

TN625: Nitrogen Recommendations For Cereals, Oilseed Rape And Potatoes

Nitrogen Recommendations For Cereals, Oilseed Rape And Potatoes (PDF: 299 kB)

Authors: Alex Sinclair, Lawrence Morrice, Stuart Wale, Elaine Booth

ISBN: 1854828649  Published: Dec 2009

Nitrogen recommendations for cereals and winter oilseed rape include and adjustment for expected yield.

TN624: Weed Control In The Potato Crop

Weed Control In The Potato Crop (PDF: 235 kB)

Authors: Mark Ballingall, Hugh Ironside

ISBN: 1854829893  Published: Dec 2009

This technical note describes the options for weed control in potatoes. A constantly changing legislative environment has resulted in fewer herbicide options since the last technical note on this subject. This technical note covers conventional herbicide options in the potato crop but has potential interest to organic systems.

TN623: Fertiliser Recommendations For Soft Fruit And Rhubarb Crops

Fertiliser Recommendations For Soft Fruit And Rhubarb Crops (PDF: 405 kB)

Authors: Audrey Litterick, Alex Sinclair, John Atwood

ISBN: 185482893  Published: Dec 2009

Nitrogen (N) recommendations for these crops have been updated in the light of results from recent trials and advisory experience.

TN622: Optimising The Application Of Bulky Organic Fertilisers

Optimising The Application Of Bulky Organic Fertilisers (PDF: 326 kB)

Authors: Alex Sinclair, Audrey Litterick, Bill Crooks & Brian Chambers

ISBN: 1854828886  Published: May 2010

Provides information on the ‘typical’ chemical and physical properties of the main types of bulky organic fertilisers and explains how to use the materials to best effect, whilst ensuring compliance with the relevant legislation.

TN621: Fertiliser Recommendations For Vegetables, Minority Arable Crops & Bulbs

Fertiliser Recommendations For Vegetables, Minority Arable Crops & Bulbs (PDF: 299 kB)

Authors: Audrey Litterick, Alex Sinclair & Clive Rahn

ISBN: 1854828835  Published: Sep 2009

Recommendations to give the best financial return for the farmer/grower.

TN620: Winter Oilseed Rape Pests And Diseases

Winter Oilseed Rape Pests And Diseases (PDF: 577 kB)

Authors: Simon Oxley, Andy Evans

ISBN: 1854828789  Published: Jun 2009

Winter oilseed rape is affected by a wide range of pests and diseases with new problems beginning to appear as a consequence of changes in pesticide usage and weather patterns. This technical note provides an update on the biology of the main pests and diseases affecting crops. Integrated control measures to manage these problems are provided.

TN619: Barley Disease Control

Barley Disease Control (PDF: 1.6 MB)

Authors: Simon Oxley, Fiona Burnett

ISBN: 1854828738  Published: May 2009

Many factors influence the types and severity of diseases which affect crops. This technical note describes how these factors can influence the severity of foliar, stem base, root and head diseases in barley and how they can be used to manage disease in an integrated disease programme.

TN618: Cephalosporium Leaf Stripe In Winter Wheat

Cephalosporium Leaf Stripe In Winter Wheat (PDF: 344 kB)

Authors: Simon Oxley

ISBN: 1854828681  Published: Apr 2009

Cephalosporium leaf stripe is an increasing problem on farms in Scotland where wheat is grown on short rotations. This note provides information on the disease to help growers identify the problem and explain the potential economic risks if it becomes established on farms.

TN617: Stockowner Biosecurity

Stockowner Biosecurity (PDF: 364 kB)

Authors: Sandy Clark, Colin Mason

ISBN: 1854828975  Published: Apr 2009

The prevention of infectious disease to livestock farm herds and flocks is more important as margins tighten and exotic diseases threaten. Constant attention to detail and vigilance for signs of disease are vital for the protection of your animals and business. Stockowners need to consider the disease risks when employing contractors, helping neighbours, attending livestock auctions, agricultural shows and visiting any facility where animals are kept. There are guidelines which, if adhered to, can prevent unnecessary disease incursion with the associated loss of income and hardships.

TN616: Recommended Grass & Clover Varieties 2008-2009

Recommended Grass & Clover Varieties 2008-2009 (PDF: 432 kB)

Authors: P A Shipway, L J Baker, G Carr, A Drysdale

ISBN: 1854828924  Published: Apr 2009

Varieties listed are recommended for use in Scotland.

TN615: Weed Management In Grassland

Weed Management In Grassland (PDF: 764 kB)

Authors: Ken Davies, Mark Ballingall

ISBN: 185428878  Published: Mar 2009

Describes the most important weeds of grassland and their management. Of value to low and high conventional input grassland systems, as well as potentially to organic systems.

TN614: Biodiversity And Animal Health

Biodiversity And Animal Health (PDF: 386 kB)

Authors: D J Roberts, S Stewart, and C Mason

ISBN: 1854828827  Published: Mar 2009

Both biodiversity and animal health are important issues on livestock farms. Carefuly integrated farm management can benefit both wildlife and livestock and reduce diffuse pollution. This note summarises some of the examples where improving biodiversity can also improve animal health and other examples where there is a potential conflict between the two areas.

TN613: Recommended Grass And Clover Varieties 2007-2008

Recommended Grass And Clover Varieties 2007-2008 (PDF: 474 kB)

Authors: J R Weddell, L J Baker, G Carr, A Drysdale

ISBN: 1854828770  Published: Jun 2008

Varieties recommended for use in Scotland.

TN612: Ponds For Wildlife - Creation And Restoration

Ponds For Wildlife - Creation And Restoration (PDF: 566 kB)

Authors: Helen Bibby

ISBN: 185482872x  Published: Apr 2008

The definition of a pond used here is a “Man-made or natural body of freshwater between 1m and 2 hectares in area, which holds water for all or part of the year”. This technical note provides guidance on good practice in the creation and restoration of ponds in Scotland.

TN609: Management Of Grass Weeds In Winter Cereals

Management Of Grass Weeds In Winter Cereals (PDF: 743 kB)

Authors: Ken Davies, Mark Ballingall

ISBN: 1854828916  Published: Apr 2008

Grass weeds are an increasing problem in cottish winter cereals crops. husbandry and herbicidal techniques are described, with particular emphasis on bromes, black-grass, rye-grass and wild-oats.

TN608: Weed Management In Grain Legumes: Peas, Beans And Lupins

Weed Management In Grain Legumes: Peas, Beans And Lupins (PDF: 621 kB)

Authors: Ken Davies & Mark Ballingall

ISBN: 185482886X  Published: Feb 2008

Describes options for weed management in grain legumes, including weed management by husbandry, rotational and reactive physical methods for organic farming, as well as with herbicides.

TN607: Winter Wheat Disease Control

Winter Wheat Disease Control (PDF: 1.3 MB)

Authors: Simon Oxley & Fiona Burnett

ISBN: 1854828819  Published: Mar 2008

Integated management of wheat diseases, including use of varietal resistance, seed treatments and fungicides for cost effective disease control. A good reference of the key wheat diseases and how to manage them.

TN605: Impact Of Climate Change In Scotland On Crop Pests, Weeds And Disease

Impact Of Climate Change In Scotland On Crop Pests, Weeds And Disease (PDF: 553 kB)

Authors: Ken Davies, Andy Evans, Simon Oxley

ISBN: 1854828711  Published: Oct 2007

Summary of how climate change is likely to affect the pests, weeds and diseases we currently see on Scottish crops, and identify potential 'new' threats that can take advantage of the changed Scottish climate.

TN604: Changes In Pests, Weeds & Diseases In Scotland Over The Last 20 Years

Changes In Pests, Weeds & Diseases In Scotland Over The Last 20 Years (PDF: 453 kB)

Authors: Ken Davies, Andy Evans, Simon Oxley

ISBN: 1854828665  Published: Oct 2007

The populations of pests, weeds and diseases in Scotland changes over time in response to cropping patterns, varieties, husbandry, rotation, cultivation, pesticide use and, probably, also climatic changes. This technical note examines the changes over recent years and discusses what factors may have caused such changes.

TN603: Soil Dwelling Free-Living Nematodes As Pests Of Crops

Soil Dwelling Free-Living Nematodes As Pests Of Crops (PDF: 1.5 MB)

Authors: Andy Evans

ISBN: 1854828959  Published: Sep 2007

Soil dwelling nematode pests are separated into migratory (free-living) and sedentary types, which relates to their ability to move through soil whilst feeding.

TN602: Clubroot Disease Of Oilseed Rape And Other Brassica Crops

Clubroot Disease Of Oilseed Rape And Other Brassica Crops (PDF: 288 kB)

Authors: Rob Harling & Simon Oxley

ISBN: 1854828908  Published: Jul 2007

Clubroot management in brassicas.

TN601: Ergot Disease In Cereals

Ergot Disease In Cereals (PDF: 1.6 MB)

Authors: Simon Oxley, Mitch Lewis, Sandra Stewart

ISBN: 1854828851  Published: Jul 2007

Ergot management including variety resistance, impact on animals and management of field margins to minimise risk.

TN599: Preventing Lameness In Dairy Cows: Hoof Lesions; Their Identification, Treatment, Management And Prevention

Preventing Lameness In Dairy Cows: Hoof Lesions; Their Identification, Treatment, Management And Prevention (PDF: 416 kB)

Authors: Colin Mason & Jill Offer

ISBN: 1854828754  Published: Apr 2007

Lameness in every dairy herd can be split into three main categories: claw horn (hoof) lesions, skin lesions and non-foot lameness.

TN598: Perch Designs For Extensive Systems

Perch Designs For Extensive Systems (PDF: 235 kB)

Authors: Nick Sparks

ISBN: 1854828657  Published: May 2007

Perching is a behaviour that the bird performs naturally in the wild. At night, in particular hens that are not housed (such as feral poultry in Asia) will roost off the ground as a means of protecting themselves from predators. A branch or similar structure of a suitable dimension allows the bird to adopt a natural grip with its feet while sleeping.

TN596: Spring Barley Weed Control [2007]

Spring Barley Weed Control [2007] (PDF: 455 kB)

Authors: Ken Davies

ISBN: 1854828606  Published: Apr 2007

Spring barley responds positively to weed control in terms of yield, ease of harvest, grain quality and reduced weed seed contamination. This note examines how weed populations have changed, shows how to select your weed control programme to optimise herbicide use, potentially reducing use and minimising environmental impact and costs, and reviews the treatments currently available.

TN595: Woodchip Corrals

Woodchip Corrals (PDF: 463 kB)

Authors: Dave Merrilees & Seamus Donnelly

ISBN: 1854828592  Published: Jan 2007

Woodchip corrals have been used as a cost-effective system for overwintering cattle compared with conventional housing. Operational performance in Scotland and elsewhere indicates that not only is stock health and welfare better from rearing outdoors but economic performance is also enhanced.

TN594: Pruning to Improve Timber Quality

Pruning to Improve Timber Quality (PDF: 3.1 MB)

Authors: Chris Simpson and Simon Jacyna

ISBN: 1854828584  Published: Jan 2007

Pruning trees to improve timber quality can increase the economic value of woodlands.

TN593: Maintenance Of Young Farm Woodlands

Maintenance Of Young Farm Woodlands (PDF: 444 kB)

Authors: Simon Jacyna

ISBN: 1854828576  Published: Apr 2007

Summarises the work necessary to ensure the satisfactory growth and establishment of woodlands in the years immediately after they are planted. The maintenance work required is partly influenced by the type of woodland, its objectives and the methods of ground preparation that were carried out.

TN592: Plants And Planting Methods

Plants And Planting Methods (PDF: 514 kB)

Authors: James Reilly

ISBN: 1854828568  Published: Jan 2007

The selection of quality plants and their method of planting will be vital for successful establishment. Trees grow in the same location for hundreds or in some case thousands of years and during this time they are exposed to many dangers. The most critical period, however, is usually during the first five years of growth.

TN591: A Practical Guide To Establishing Farm Woodlands: Fences And Protection

A Practical Guide To Establishing Farm Woodlands: Fences And Protection (PDF: 371 kB)

Authors: James Reilly

ISBN: 185482855x  Published: Jan 2007

As it is expensive to replace trees, protection from possible threats is an important consideration at the outset. Protection may be needed for several years until the trees have grown beyond the vulnerable stage. Also, if planting is undertaken with grant aid, protection operations will not be funded retrospectively. It is therefore essential to make decisions about how, and against what, the trees will need to be protected well before the planting work commences.

TN590: Site Preparation for New Farm Woodlands

Site Preparation for New Farm Woodlands (PDF: 1.5 MB)

Authors: Simon Jacyna

ISBN: 1854828541  Published: Jan 2007

Ground preparation is needed on most sites to ensure good establishment of young trees.

TN589: Black Grouse Management On Farmland

Black Grouse Management On Farmland (PDF: 321 kB)

Authors: Argyll Black Grouse Group, Helen Bibby

ISBN: 1854828533  Published: Apr 2007

Black grouse were once widespread in the UK. In Scotland they are now one of our fastest declining bird species. Black grouse are currently a red listed species of high conservation concern with their own National Species Action Plan.

TN588: Condition Scoring The Modern Dairy Cow

Condition Scoring The Modern Dairy Cow (PDF: 460 kB)

Authors: Dr Geoff Pollott

ISBN: 1854828444  Published: Jan 2007

The condition score of a cow is a useful piece of information to have, particularly when it is recorded periodically throughout lactation and acted on.

TN587: Managing Body Condition Score In Dairy Cows

Managing Body Condition Score In Dairy Cows (PDF: 164 kB)

Authors: Derek Kennedy

ISBN: 1854828436  Published: Dec 2007

Dairy cows, like most other animals, mobilise bodyfat during early lactation to meet the substantial energy demands of milk production. This is especially characteristic of modern dairy cows. By keeping cows in the correct body condition, good productivity can be achieved and health and welfare problems reduced.

TN586: Conservation Grazing Of Semi-Natural Habitats

Conservation Grazing Of Semi-Natural Habitats (PDF: 281 kB)

Authors: Paul Chapman

ISBN: 1854828703  Published: Apr 2007

The long history of human settlement and use of the Scottish landscape means that most of the habitats that we value for their biodiversity have been maintained or created by human management practices, and in particular, grazing by domestic livestock.

TN585: Biosecurity – Vehicles Visiting The Farm

Biosecurity – Vehicles Visiting The Farm (PDF: 183 kB)

Authors: Derek Kennedy, Mark Crawshaw

ISBN: 1854828428  Published: Dec 2007

There are a number of actions individual farmers can take to minimise the risk of vehicles bringing disease onto their farms. In the event of an infectious disease outbreak, farmers should have a contingency plan. In some cases, the authorities may specify what minimum biosecurity measures they would expect farmers and farm visitors to adhere to.

TN584: Stem Boring Pests Of Winter Oilseed Rape

Stem Boring Pests Of Winter Oilseed Rape (PDF: 504 kB)

Authors: Andy Evans

ISBN: 185482841x  Published: Jan 2007

In the last few seasons, several stem-boring pests of winter oilseed rape have been seen in Scottish crops. Their perennial occurrence and increasing levels of damage will require a revision of the management of oilseed rape pests in Scotland, particularly in the autumn.

TN582: Managing Set-aside And Fallows For Crop Protection

Managing Set-aside And Fallows For Crop Protection (PDF: 254 kB)

Authors: Ken Davies, Simon Oxley, & Andy Evans

ISBN: 185482839  Published: Jun 2006

Managing set-aside and fallows for crop protection

TN581: On-farm Biosecurity Strategy For A Notifiable Disease Outbreak: The 4 S's

On-farm Biosecurity Strategy For A Notifiable Disease Outbreak: The 4 S's (PDF: 201 kB)

Authors: D J Roberts & Mark Crawshaw

ISBN: 185482838x  Published: Feb 2007

The following strategy has been developed to help farmers plan what action they would take on their farm with respect to biosecurity in order to deal with an outbreak of a contagious, notifiable disease, such as foot and mouth, occurring in the UK.

TN580: Crop Protection In Reduced Tillage Systems

Crop Protection In Reduced Tillage Systems (PDF: 255 kB)

Authors: Ken Davies, Simon Oxley, Andy Evans

ISBN: 1854828311  Published: Jun 2006

Crop Protection in Reduced Tillage Systems

TN579: Weed Management In Spring Oilseed Rape Crops

Weed Management In Spring Oilseed Rape Crops (PDF: 212 kB)

Authors: Ken Davies

ISBN: 1854828363  Published: May 2005

Weed management options for spring oilseed rape

TN578: Weed Management In Winter Oilseed Rape Crops

Weed Management In Winter Oilseed Rape Crops (PDF: 153 kB)

Authors: Ken Davies

ISBN: 1854828355  Published: May 2005

Details weed management in winter oilseed rape

TN577: Sustainable Control Of Parasitic Gastroenteritis Of Sheep In Scotland

Sustainable Control Of Parasitic Gastroenteritis Of Sheep In Scotland (PDF: 268 kB)

Authors: George Mitchell

ISBN: 1854828304  Published: May 2005

Anthelmintic resistance is increasing in Scotland. In other major sheep producing countries in the world, worm populations resistant to all three wormer groups: Group 1 Benzimidazoles (BZ), Group 2 Levamisole/Morantel (LM) and Group 3 Avermectins/Macrocyclic Lactones (AV) are forcing farmers away from reliance upon wormers to control parasitic gastroenteritis (PGE). The strategy above is recommended to control gutworms in sheep and reduce the risk of the development of anthelmintic (wormer) resistance (AR).

TN574: The Control & Management Of Calf Diarrhoea In Beef Herds

The Control & Management Of Calf Diarrhoea In Beef Herds (PDF: 129 kB)

Authors: Colin Mason, George Caldow

ISBN: 1854828274  Published: Sep 2005

Calf diarrhoea or calf scour can cause significant losses in the beef herd.

TN573: Planned Worm Control For The Beef Herd

Planned Worm Control For The Beef Herd (PDF: 90 kB)

Authors: George Caldow

ISBN: 1854828266  Published: Oct 2005

Gut worms and lungworm have a severe adverse effect on the growth rates of immature beef cattle. However in many herds worm treatments are also given when they are not required, wasting time and resources. The way to prevent losses and to ensure that cost effective worm control is achieved is to plan the whole season's worm control before turnout.

TN572: Trace Element Disorders In Beef Cattle

Trace Element Disorders In Beef Cattle (PDF: 145 kB)

Authors: Mark Crawshaw, George Caldow

ISBN: 1854828258  Published: Sep 2005

Copper, cobalt, selenium and iodine are essential components of the diet to maintain health and productivity

TN571: Pneumonia In Beef Cattle

Pneumonia In Beef Cattle (PDF: 153 kB)

Authors: George Caldow, Mark Crawshaw

ISBN: 185482824X  Published: Aug 2005

Calf pneumonia is a significant source of financial loss in beef production

TN570: Ragwort Poisoning In Livestock: Prevention & Control

Ragwort Poisoning In Livestock: Prevention & Control (PDF: 180 kB)

Authors: Ken Davies

ISBN: 1854828231  Published: May 2005

Importance of controlling the weed ragwort in grassland and prevention of posioning of livestock.

TN566: Protecting Young Woodlands From Vole Damage

Protecting Young Woodlands From Vole Damage (PDF: 294 kB)

Authors: Simon Jacyna

ISBN: 1854828045  Published: Oct 2004

Voles can cause serious damage to trees. Protection measures are given.

TN565: Recommendations For The Design Of New Safe & Efficient Cattle Handling Systems

Recommendations For The Design Of New Safe & Efficient Cattle Handling Systems (PDF: 166 kB)

Authors: Dr Simon Turner

ISBN: 1854828061  Published: Oct 2004

Investing in a new handling system is a major commitment and design faults will either have to be corrected at a later date or contended with for the life of the system. Spending time at the outset developing a safe and efficient design appropriate to your needs is therefore easily justified. As the ease and safety of handling depends largely on how well the behaviour of the animal is exploited, the starting point in the design process should be understanding what features encourage calm movement.

TN564: Modifying Existing Handling Systems To Improve Human Safety

Modifying Existing Handling Systems To Improve Human Safety (PDF: 143 kB)

Authors: Dr Simon Turner

ISBN: 1854828053  Published: Oct 2004

By examining the Health and Safety Executive annual statistical reports, it is apparent that there has been no reduction in the number of human fatalities whilst handling cattle in the UK since the 1970s, despite a reduction in the total rate of agricultural fatalities.

TN557: Treatment And Control Of Liver Fluke In Sheep And Cattle

Treatment And Control Of Liver Fluke In Sheep And Cattle (PDF: 1.0 MB)

Authors: George Mitchell

ISBN: 1854827987  Published: Nov 2003

Due to the increased risk of liver fluke disease it is essential that stockowners investigate any unexplained losses or disease entities

TN553: Minimum Tillage

Minimum Tillage (PDF: 104 kB)

Authors: Bruce Ball, Ian Bingham

ISBN: 185482791x  Published: Dec 2003

Minimum tillage as a cultivation method. Looking at economics.

TN552: Wheat Bulb Fly And Other Pests Of Cereals

Wheat Bulb Fly And Other Pests Of Cereals (PDF: 110 kB)

Authors: Andy Evans

ISBN: 1854827901  Published: Jul 2003

Biology and control of wheat bulb fly

TN551: Pests Of Swedes And Turnips: Their Management & Control

Pests Of Swedes And Turnips: Their Management & Control (PDF: 207 kB)

Authors: Andy Evans

ISBN: 1854817898  Published: Jul 2003

Swedes and turnips pests and control measures

TN548: Diseases Of Peas

Diseases Of Peas (PDF: 99 kB)

Authors: Simon Oxley

ISBN: 1854817863  Published: Apr 2003

Biology and control of peas

TN547: Swedes And Turnips Integrated Weed Management

Swedes And Turnips Integrated Weed Management (PDF: 96 kB)

Authors: Ken Davies

ISBN: 1854827855  Published: Apr 2003

Weed control option in swedes

TN541: Health Status Of Breeding Cattle For Sale

Health Status Of Breeding Cattle For Sale (PDF: 54 kB)

Authors: George Caldow, Sheila Rusbridge, Mark Crawshaw, George Gunn

ISBN: 1854827715  Published: Feb 2003

The health status of animals at sale is important for two reasons. Firstly the animal itself needs to be free from the major diseases if it is to breed successfully and have a long and productive life. Secondly these animals should be free from the major diseases so that they do not endanger either the health of the other animals at the sale or the health of the herd that they are sold in to.

TN540: Winter Wheat & Barley: The Integrated Management Of Weeds

Winter Wheat & Barley: The Integrated Management Of Weeds (PDF: 143 kB)

Authors: Ken Davies

ISBN: 1854827707  Published: Aug 2003

Weed control options in winter wheat and barley

TN521: Design Of Cattle Farm Steadings For Maximum Biosecurity

Design Of Cattle Farm Steadings For Maximum Biosecurity (PDF: 60 kB)

Authors: Mark Crawshaw, Basil Lowman, Jack Bishop, George Caldow

ISBN: 1854827421  Published: Jan 2003

It is obviously difficult to redesign existing farm steadings to provide maximum biosecurity. Knowing the ideal layout to minimise the entry of infectious disease will allow any future modifications/extensions etc to enhance rather than detract from the biosecurity of the unit.

TN520: Converting To Organic Farming

Converting To Organic Farming (PDF: 102 kB)

Authors: David Younie, Hannah Jones, Sandy Ramsay

ISBN: 185482743X  Published: Mar 2002

Consumer concern over the way food is produced, the effect of farming methods on the environment and animal welfare, and the healthiness of food, is increasing. This is reflected in a growing demand for organic food, with 75% of UK households making an organic food purchase during 2000.

TN519: Management Of Wetlands For Wildlife

Management Of Wetlands For Wildlife (PDF: 61 kB)

Authors: Helen Bibby

ISBN: 1854827510  Published: Mar 2006

Wetlands include, by any definition of the term, a large and varied set of habitats. Here it means sites that are waterlogged or water covered for a significant part of the year: swamps, marshes, bogs, fens, and wet grassland.

TN515: Conservation Headlands

Conservation Headlands (PDF: 50 kB)

Authors: Paul Chapman

ISBN: 1854827332  Published: May 2002

The populations of many farmland birds, including game species such as Grey Partridge, have declined dramatically in recent years. The young of many of these birds are dependent on insects as a food supply, while many other birds, mammals and invertebrates feed on weed seeds.

TN513: Grass Margins & Beetle Banks

Grass Margins & Beetle Banks (PDF: 50 kB)

Authors: Christine S Hall

ISBN: 1854827186  Published: Jan 2002

With the decline of undisturbed tussocky grassland on many farms and an increase in field size, there has been a corresponding loss of invertebrates and other species of wildlife on farms. Recent research has shown just how important grass margins around the edge of arable fields and across the middle of large fields (referred to as Beetle Banks) can be.

TN502: Herd Biosecurity For Cattle

Herd Biosecurity For Cattle (PDF: 67 kB)

Authors: Mark Crawshaw, George Caldow, George Gunn, Sheila Rusbridge

ISBN: 1854827340  Published: Apr 2002

Information on the role of biosecurity in the control of infectious diseases and the implementation of herd biosecurity for cattle.

TN501: Johne's Disease In Cattle

Johne's Disease In Cattle (PDF: 59 kB)

Authors: George Caldow, Sheila Rusbridge, Mark Crawshaw, George Gunn

ISBN: 1854827499  Published: Feb 2003

The disease, Crohn’s disease, Diagnosis and diagnostic tests, Prevalence in the UK herd, Significance for the UK dairy herd, Significance for the UK beef herd, Options for control

TN500: Leptospira Hardjo Infection In Cattle

Leptospira Hardjo Infection In Cattle (PDF: 176 kB)

Authors: Sheila Rusbridge, George Caldow, Mark Crawshaw, George Gunn

ISBN: 154827480  Published: Mar 2004

Leptospira hardjo infection is associated with infertility and abortion and the weak calf syndrome. Infection is nearly always introduced into a herd by the purchase of infected cattle.

TN496: Infectious Bovine Rhinotracheitis (IBR)

Infectious Bovine Rhinotracheitis (IBR) (PDF: 41 kB)

Authors: Mark Crawshaw, George Gunn, Peter Nettleton, George Caldow

ISBN: 1854827103  Published: Aug 2004

Infectious bovine rhinotracheitis is an acute infectious disease of the upper respiratory tract that commonly affects cattle aged 6 months or more.

TN492: Aphids And Aphid-Borne Viruses In Potato Crops

Aphids And Aphid-Borne Viruses In Potato Crops (PDF: 93 kB)

Authors: Andy Evans

ISBN: 1854827065  Published: Oct 2000

Biology and control of potato aphids

TN488: Organic Vegetables In Scotland

Organic Vegetables In Scotland (PDF: 51 kB)

Authors: Mark Sutton

ISBN: 1854826956  Published: Mar 2000

Demand for organic vegetables is increasing steadily but over 80% of UK supply is imported. Imported organic vegetables include types widely grown by conventional growers in Scotland. These vegetables may offer a starting point for large scale organic production.

TN454: Housing For The Farrowing And Lactating Sow

Housing For The Farrowing And Lactating Sow (PDF: 38 kB)

Authors: Dale Arey

ISBN: 1854826131  Published: Aug 1997

Outlines the alternative systems for farrowing and lactation that can be considered.

TN453: Advice for Prospective Mushroom Growers

Advice for Prospective Mushroom Growers (PDF: 72 kB)

Authors: Dr Robin Szmidt

ISBN: 1854826123  Published: Aug 1997

A brief introduction giving advice to those contemplating growing mushrooms commercially.

TN308: Fertiliser Series No. 13: Removal By Crops & PK Balance Sheets

Fertiliser Series No. 13: Removal By Crops & PK Balance Sheets (PDF: 735 kB)

Authors: P W Dyson

ISBN: 1854823043  Published: Jan 1992

Maintenance of soil fertility, in terms of nutrient status, depends on achieving a balance between nutrient removal (offtake) by crops and application (input) of fertilisers and animal manures.

Contact

Mr Ken Rundle
SAC (Scottish Agricultural College) Work SAC, King's Buildings, West Mains Road,
Edinburgh
EH9 3JG
TelWork 0131 535 4196
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