Blackface sheep breeders have been told they are the ambassadors of their industry and need to turn negative propaganda into positive messages.
The advice was given at the Blackface Sheep Breeders Association (BSBA) meeting in Stirling from Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) development director, Doug Bell. He emphasised the importance of grazing livestock on the hills to encourage biodiversity and protect carbon stocks, and said it was vital to convey that positive message more widely.
Mr Bell added: “When people hear something enough times, they believe it, and that’s what’s happening with the misinformation regarding the sheep industry’s carbon emissions. The way emissions are measured should be specific to each particular sector and we need to be using appropriate figures and put things in context.
“Livestock is fundamentally important in managing the habitat on the hills. We have some of the highest carbon soils in the world and hill farmers are responsible for managing that and making sure it is not depleted. The Blackface breed has a fantastic story to tell, we just need to spread the message. You are all ambassadors of your own industry.”
The meeting marked the end of the presidency for David Shedden, Burnfoot Farm, Muirkirk and he was succeeded by Alec Telfer of Broadeadows Farm, Selkirk. Glenkindie farmer, Sandy Smith, a breeder of Perth-type Blackfaces at Haughton, took on the role of vice-chairman.
The association’s Connachan salver, for an outstanding contribution to the Blackface breed, was presented to Willie Dunlop, of Elmscleugh, Dunbar who has achieved record prices for tups and become one of the most prominent breeders in the country. Connachan farmer, Mary McCall-Smith praised Mr Dunlop’s “work ethic and integrity”.
nnicolson@thecourier.co.uk
