Plan and monitor the provision of livestock

This standard covers planning and monitoring the provision of livestock for the enterprise. This could include acquiring stock to introduce a new breed, expanding existing stock levels, or replacing stock that has been taken out. It includes various options for obtaining stock, such as through a breeding programme or purchasing. It also covers estimating quantities required and calculating costs.
You will need to prepare plans for the provision of livestock that meet enterprise targets.
Monitoring the programme and reviewing performance against targets are essential parts of a successful livestock enterprise.
When carrying out your work, you must consider the environmental impact, and work toward preserving and improving habitats and biodiversity, as well as responding to and mitigating the effects of climate change.
This standard is suitable for farm advisers, farm managers, enterprise/unit managers, farmers, crofters, or smallholders.

Key Tasks in Livestock Provision Planning

1. Identify the requirements for the provision of livestock to meet enterprise business targets
2. Identify suitable breeds of livestock for the location, climate, and intended purpose
3. Identify and evaluate options for acquiring livestock
4. Seek specialist advice where needed
5. Select preferred options based on enterprise needs and constraints, and develop plans to meet business targets
6. Produce procedures and protocols to manage and monitor livestock provision
7. If purchasing livestock, determine the specifications that meet enterprise requirements
8. Identify sources of livestock for purchase that match the required specifications
9. Plan and implement biosecurity measures to receive new stock, in line with the health and welfare plan
10. If rearing livestock, decide on the rearing system (home or contract), and create plans that define performance targets
11. Communicate the livestock provision plan to those involved in its implementation
12. Define procedures for monitoring the health, well-being, and performance of new stock, and specify necessary actions
13. Monitor performance against targets and adjust livestock plans as needed
14. Ensure working methods align with health and safety legislation, codes of practice, and organisational requirements
15. Maintain and store records as required by legislation, codes of practice, quality assurance protocols, and business policies

Knowledge Required for Livestock Provision Planning

1. Determining Requirements
   Understand how to assess livestock needs to meet business targets.
2. Selecting Suitable Breeds
   Consider location, climate, purpose, and market demands when choosing breeds.
3. Evaluating Opportunities and Constraints
   Identify and weigh factors influencing livestock acquisition strategies.
4. Interpreting Economic Breeding Values (EBVs)
   Know how EBVs apply to your livestock, target market, or supply chain.
5. Exploring Acquisition Options
   Consider breeding your own, buying (private sale or markets), or using a contract rearer.
6. Legal and Regulatory Frameworks
   Be familiar with laws, regulations, and industry codes of practice.
7. Planning Considerations
   Factor in financial impact, biosecurity measures, timing, and culling plans.
8. Identifying Sources for Livestock
   Locate animals with suitable genetic traits, health status, and temperament; understand risk-based trading principles.
9. Understanding Animal Growth
   Know animal physiology and how rearing influences future performance.
10. Animal Health & Nutrition Interrelations
    Grasp how health, wellbeing, performance, and nutrition policies connect.
11. Communicating Plans Effectively
    Use clear methods to inform stakeholders involved in plan implementation.
12. Monitoring Performance
    Track outcomes against business goals and adjust accordingly.
13. Reviewing Policies and Corrective Actions
    Recognise when updates are needed and how to implement changes.
14. Ensuring Profitability
    Maintain and check livestock provision to support enterprise success.
15. Environmental & Safety Responsibilities
    Comply with legislation, safety standards, and organisational requirements.
16. Reporting & Record-Keeping
    Follow policies on documentation and understand retention timeframes.