Welsh Government Rural Affairs

New Minister, new direction. Introducing the Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability, Llyr Gruffydd.

The rules for holding a bird gathering in Wales have changed. Poultry and other captive bird gatherings are now permitted under a general licence. Any gathering including Anseriformes (ducks, geese and swans) will require a specific licence. Check here: gov.wales/avian-influenz…

We have entered the pre-election period ahead of the Senedd Election on 7 May, so we'll be pausing posts on this channel. We may still post urgent notifiable animal disease alerts where necessary. We'll be back after the election. gov.wales/elections-to-s…

Melissa Charles-Davies has been appointed Chair of the Agricultural Advisory Panel for Wales. The Panel plays an important role in providing independent advice to Welsh Ministers on agricultural wages and related matters.

Our social media accounts must operate differently as we approach the Senedd Election on 7 May. Election rules mean there are limits on what we can post and respond to from our social media channels in the period before the election. gov.wales/elections-to-s…

If you suspect a notifiable disease in your animals, you must report it immediately by calling: 📞 03000 200 301 if you’re in England 📞 03003 038 268 if you’re in Wales 📞 your local Field Services Office if you’re in Scotland gov.uk/guidance/find-…

Keep up to date with the latest information: gov.wales/birdflu

The all-Wales Avian Influenza Prevention Zone, including mandatory biosecurity measures will remain in place. Biosecurity self-assessment checklists for keepers of small poultry flocks, commercial poultry and game birds are freely available here: gov.wales/biosecurity-an…..

Housing measures for poultry and flocks of 50 or more captive birds in will be lifted on Thursday 9 April. Bird owners should prepare their ranges and outside areas now, and continue to practice rigorous hygiene and biosecurity. x.com/APHAgovuk/stat…

Our recent health events in Wales helped many fishermen, but the help doesn't stop there. You can access free confidential mental health and physio services directly @thefishmish @seahospital @Welsh_Fishermen @WG_fisheries @WGRural

Benchmarking is relevant for animal health and welfare where you can monitor activities such as age at first calving or ewe scanning. This will help you adopt smarter and more sustainable farming practices. Read more: gov.wales/SustainableFar… #SupportingOurFarmers

Did you know that some devastating diseases can survive in food products for long periods of time? Find out how to protect our farm animals from diseases such as #Africanswinefever and #footandmouth. gov.uk/government/col…

If you are travelling abroad during the Easter break, don’t risk bringing plants, seeds, flowers, fruit or vegetables back to the United Kingdom (UK). They can carry pests and diseases that would destroy UK plants, trees and crops. gov.uk/guidance/plant…

🎥 In this video, a farmer explains his experience with the Sustainable Farming Scheme and how it has evolved over time. Read more: gov.wales/SustainableFar… #SupportingOurFarmers

Habitats can enhance your farm in many ways 🐝 As part of the Sustainable Farming Scheme, at least 10% of your farm must be managed as habitat. Read more: gov.wales/SustainableFar…

Herbal leys are great for farms as they keep livestock healthy during grazing season. As part of the SFS, herbal leys should be retained for 3 years or meet the scheme requirement for 10% habitat on each farm. Find out more: gov.wales/SustainableFar… #SupportingOurFarmers

Did you know that soil testing undertaken up to 4 years before you enter the Sustainable Farming Scheme will count towards your Universal Actions? 🌱 Read more: gov.wales/SustainableFar… #SupportingOurFarmers

We want the skills of service leavers to be put to use in fulfilling and meaningful careers. That’s why we fund courses and career events like this one at Maelor Forest Nurseries — working with @ConFor to show veterans how their expertise can transfer into other sectors.

"Lambing season is a wonderful opportunity for families to enjoy the countryside, but it's vital to remember that young farm animals can carry germs that cause illness". bbc.co.uk/news/articles/…