ScotGov Rural

Protect your livestock and the Scottish farming community from Bluetongue Virus (BTV). When purchasing cattle or sheep, check movement restrictions to understand the risk of BTV ➡️ https://www.gov.scot/publications/bluetongue/pages/bluetongue-movement-restrictions-for-animals/

There’s still time to complete you Agricultural Census by 31 August. We are encouraging agricultural businesses to complete their census online through Rural Payments and Services. More information ➡️https://www.ruralpayments.org/news-events/agricultural-census-2026.html

Farmers are invited to share their experiences of managing Johne’s Disease.

Our researchers are asking farmers to share their experiences of managing Johne’s Disease (paratuberculosis) - a chronic cattle infection that can be costly and may be present for years before symptoms appear.

The survey aims to better understand the decisions farmers make and the management practices they use when dealing with Johne’s Disease, helping researchers explore how the industry can be better supported in preventing and managing the condition.

The survey includes optional questions and can be completed without providing any information about yourself or your farm. Findings will be shared with the Scottish Government Johne’s Disease Working Group and the wider farming community.

Take part in the survey here: https://buff.ly/bf8jDI6

To request a paper copy of the survey, contact Kate Lamont, RAVIC (Rural and Veterinary Innovation Centre): [email protected]

Read the full story 👉 https://buff.ly/m9mUXu8

We are seeking your views on the proposed conservation statuses of Scottish salmon stocks for the 2027 fishing season. Further details ➡️https://ow.ly/yq0u50Zwsn3 Please submit your responses by 4 Sept 2026 ➡️https://ow.ly/Kj1Q50Zwsn4

Scotland Angling Tay District Salmon Fisheries Board River Tweed News Spey Fishery Board

Wondering whether you need to castrate your lambs?

If they’re likely to be finished before they reach puberty, it shouldn’t be necessary. Leaving them entire means they don’t have to undergo a painful procedure.

Further information: fas.scot/downloads/tn679-castration-and-tail-docking-in-lambs/

Are you a sheep or goat keeper in Scotland? 🐐🐑

A short guide covering the key requirements is now available. The guide brings together key information to help support good animal health and welfare, and the livestock industry in Scotland.

Read the guidance here: https://www.gov.scot/publications/sheep-and-goat-condensed-guidance/

Travelling outside the UK?

Help stop the spread of diseases like African swine fever and Foot and Mouth.

Don’t bring restricted animal or plant products—including pork—into Scotland. Watch EPIC and Scotland’s Plant Health Centre’s animation:

Don't Risk It - Bringing food into Great Britain (Narrated version) #diseaseprevention In June 2025, EPIC, the Centre of Expertise on Animal Disease Outbr...

Walking and Talking Trees: Objectives, options and opportunities for your farm

Portnellan Farm, near Balloch - Thursday 17 September, 10am to 3pm

Join the Scott-Park family to explore how trees can benefit your farm business.

https://www.tickettailor.com/events/integratingtreesnetwork