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EmailIphone Application    Posted: 26th September 2013
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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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Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

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News Shorts
Lords Committee opens Pet Parasite Medication inquiry

The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee will launch its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medication (PPM) on Wednesday (3 June).

Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.