Pembrokeshire Farmer Takes Strong Stance Against Bovine TB

Pembrokeshire dairy farmer Michael Williams has taken significant steps to safeguard his herd amid a chronic bovine TB breakdown. By halting cattle purchases and establishing a closed herd, Williams has reduced the risk of disease transmission.

Involved in the Pembrokeshire TB pilot by the Welsh government, Williams shared his experiences at a Farming Connect event, highlighting the proactive measures he has adopted. These include advanced biosecurity protocols such as installing a comprehensive badger-proof fence, creating remote fallen stock areas, and employing electric fencing along his maize clamp to deter wildlife.

Moreover, Williams enforces controlled visitor access to his farm, mandates vehicle cleanliness, drains unused water troughs, and decreases reliance on farm contractors. A focus on hygiene extends to calving, where disinfection protocols are rigorously maintained.

Williams has also become more strategic in culling, using an app-developed risk rating system to identify and remove higher-risk cows. In 2024 alone, 35 cows were culled based on their risk ratings. His efforts are producing measurable success; the risk rating fell from 11% in January 2024 to 7% by December.

Collaboration with his vet, Rhiannon Lewis, has been pivotal for Williams, who emphasizes the importance of dedicated biosecurity discussions. By staying ahead of the disease risk, Williams is optimistic about the future of his herd's health.