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Use of RMS as bedding investigated
Study will assess the risks of recycled manure solids as bedding

The risks, and benefits, of using recycled manure solids (RMS) as bedding for dairy cattle are to be investigated by scientists.

A research contract has been awarded to Nottingham University Vet School, The Dairy Group and Quality Milk Management Services (QMMS), to gather scientific information.

Defra will then use this data to further analyse the risks in order to determine whether the use of RMS as bedding should be allowed under the EU animal by-products regulation.

According to not-for-profit organisation DairyCo, which awarded the research contract, rising costs and reduced availability of bedding sources has resulted in many dairy farmers looking for more cost-effective alternatives.

The organisation says that interest in the use of RMS as bedding is growing globally, including in the UK.

However, the regulations classify manure as a category 2 animal by-product, and animal bedding is not currently listed as a permissible disposal route for category 2 material.

Despite the growing interest, the organisation says that there is currently a lack of scientific evidence on the effect that using RMS as bedding may have on disease transmission.

During a meeting with Defra and other industry stakeholders in June this year, it was agreed that a study would be conducted to gather scientific information.

A progress report on the research is expected by October 31, 2013, and a final report by February 28, 2014.

Defra has issued advice on interpreting the current EU animal by-products regulations, which can be found on the AHVLA website.

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FIVP announces third series of Practice Matters

News Story 1
 The Federation of Independent Veterinary practices (FIVP) has announced a third season of its podcast, Practice Matters.

Hosted by Ian Wolstenholme, series three will focus on the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) investigation, including a discussion about some of the expected impacts on independent veterinary colleagues.

Episode one launches on 13th January with guests Drs David Reader and Scott Summers, who will draw on their research into the CMA investigation and provide insights into themes such as transparency, pricing and consumer trust.

Ian Wolstenholme said: "In its third series, we will try and hone in on what the changes will mean in reality for independent practices with advice and guidance on implementation and delivery, drawing on the experience of our own team and other experts in the profession. Hope you can join us soon!" 

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News Shorts
Survey seeks ruminant sector views on antimicrobial stewardship

A new survey is seeking views of people working in the UK ruminant sector on how to tackle the challenge of demonstrating responsible antibiotic stewardship.

Forming part of a wider, collaborative initiative, the results will help identify the types of data available so that challenges with data collection can be better understood and addressed.

Anyone working in the UK farming sector, including vets and farmers,is encouraged to complete the survey, which is available at app.onlinesurveys.jisc.ac.uk