The potential to increase profitability by meeting processors’ carcase specification requirements will be the focus of the next Borders monitor farm meeting.

The meeting will take place on Wednesday, September 26 and livestock health will also be high on the agenda at the meeting.

The meeting will involve a visit to the Moredun Research Institute and to AK Stoddart’s beef processing plant.

The Moredun Research Institute conducts research into the infectious diseases of livestock. According to Monitor Farm Scotland, it strives to improve animal health and welfare by developing effective vaccines and diagnostic tools for a range of livestock diseases.

During the visit to Moredun, Dr. Beth Wells will give an overview of the research and technologies currently being developed at the institute including its knowledge exchange projects. This will be followed by a tour of the research farm.

During the visit to A K Stoddart’s plant in Broxburn, livestock procurement team member Jim Ford will lead a discussion on current market specification and what buyers are looking for.

The aim of the monitor farm programme is to help improve the productivity, profitability and sustainability of Scottish farm businesses.

Due to the nature of the visits, places are strictly limited. All those attending will be required to complete a biosecurity questionnaire from Moredun which must be completed in advance.

Transport will be provided and a bus is scheduled to leave at 9:15am, and will return at approximately 5:00pm.

To reserve your place please contact, one of the project facilitators on: 077-7196-6649 or email: [email protected] by Friday, September 21.

For more information about the monitor farm programme visit its website.