Assess profitability of this enterprise. The increase in part-time farming and increases in unit size mean that low labour input systems for sheep will be required. May lambing reduces labour requirements and improves welfare of lambs. Ewes turned out one month before lambing. Maximum grass demand coincides with maximum grass growth - reducing fertiliser inputs.
Potential benefits Spreads out labour requirements over the busy spring season.
More ewes per person can be lambed as ewes are lambing outside. Improved welfare of new born lambs given better weather conditions at lambing. Supply of quality lamb when the general quality of lamb is falling.