A differential of 20p per kg carcase between an O3 and a U3 grade is worth 4 per lamb. Selecting terminal sires with a high EBV for muscle depth and choosing well conformed ewes or possibly introducing Continental cross ewes will assist in improving lamb grades and carcase value. The replacement rate of a flock can have a significant effect on gross margins. Attention to detail with the aid of good records is essential to reduce replacement costs. A healthy flock is a prerequisite to profitable sheep production.
Vaccination can prevent many sheep diseases, which significantly affect profitability.
Sheep farmers should plan a flock health programme in conjunction with their local veterinary surgeon and development adviser. For example a lamb which is lame will reduce performance. Poor health in a flock can result in reducing flock margins by 3 to 4 per ewe. Good grassland management coupled with the use of clover can increase performance and stocking rate, leading to improved profitability. A target for stocking rates should be in the order of 13 ewes per hectare with an output of 400kg carcase per hectare.