Carmarthenshire farmers who are passionate about their herd have ensured that they face the future in a good position by taking advantage of the health support offered by Menter Moch Cymru.

Martin and Nicola Dickenson of “Pasture Perfect”, Esgair Farm in Llanpumsaint have seen a significant difference to their pig herd–and farm funding–since the implementation of the Genfaint HealthPlan.

The scheme provides a unique opportunity for pig producers to raise profitability and performance by improving the health of their herd, and through Menter Moch Cymru eligible pig farmers in Wales can access 100% funding towards their own health plan, as well as tailored advice to help improve the health and productivity of theirherd.

Nicola Dickenson said: “The herd health plan was a great opportunity for us. It has been a positive step in the right direction. It has given us a great starting point so we have a clear idea of where we are now and the health status of our pigs.”

The scheme builds a close relationship between farmers and vets, creating a strategy tailored to the needs of the farm and the individual herd.

“It was great to have a discussion with the vet about our pigs. I used to keep pigs and hope for the best that everything is going to be ok. After the vet’s visit, a detailed counselling session and receipt of the results from the swine blood samples, we were able to target preventative treatment and have a better focus on production.

“Today we know the challenges the pigs face, and going forward we are making better decisions for our herd as well as benefiting financially.”

Nicola Dickenson added: “I am so happy with the performance of the pigs. I used to sit and think, ‘am I doing everything as I should?’, but after completing the herd health plan I am much more confident, and I know today that I am doing my best for the pigs.”

“I would encourage all pig producers to set up their own health plan, and certainly to take advantage of the 100% funding from Menter Moch Cymru. It was such an easy process. It is a positive step in the right direction for pig businesses here in Wales.”

The Welsh Moch Initiative project is funded by The Welsh Government’s Rural Communities–Rural Development Programme 2014-2020, funded by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development and the Welsh Government.

Elin Haf Jones, Enterprise Development Officer for Moch Cymru said, “The herd health plan aims to improve the health, control of disease, and the welfare of the pigs. Ultimately this leads to an increase in farm efficiency, profits, and sustainability.

“The process includes veterinary consultation and herd health screening for a range of diseases; as well as advice on vaccination, biosecurity, and breeding performance.

“It’s great to see pig producers like Nicola Dickenson using the funding and support available from Menter Moch Cymru. Especially when hearing about the positive impact it is having on the farm.”

In addition, over the past 3 years, Swine Initiative Wales, in partnership with the Wales Veterinary Centre, Animal Health Services and Good Health, has been providing dedicated PLC training to Welsh Vets to ensure that they are confident and knowledgeable about how to deliver a herd health plan for a pig enterprise. The training will be delivered again this year.

The main aim of the herd health plan is to promote animal welfare through the management of health problems. Improved animal health leads to profitability and improved herd performance and a more sustainable business.