A delegation from the Western Isles will be in Shetland next week to look at Shetland’s unique biosecurity arrangements in response to the increased risk of sheep scab in the isles.
Crofters from Lewis and Harris and scientists from the James Hutton Institute will meet local representatives from the Shetland Animal Health Committee and local farmers and crofters to learn more about the steps that have been taken to protect Shetland’s sheep flocks. On their visit, they’ll be looking at the testing facilities on the quayside in Lerwick, as well as the community dipping facilities at the Staney Hill, to better understand how measures could be replicated in other island and rural communities.
During the visit, the delegation are keen to hear from anyone who would like to discuss their experiences of sheep dipping in Shetland. There’s an open invitation for anyone to meet representatives of the group between 1-2pm at the Marts café at Staney Hill on Wednesday 21st February.
Hilary Burgess, Veterinary Advisor for Shetland Islands Council said: “We’re pleased to be hosting this group in Shetland and look forward to sharing what we’ve learned from dealing with sheep scab and also to find out more about control measures taken by farmers and crofters in the Western Isles. We look forward to seeing anyone who would like to share experiences with them too, so that we can all benefit from greater knowledge on this.”
For more details of preventative measures against Sheep Scab and the SLMG community dipping facility - please look here