Herdwatch has launched a new, free service to help farmers who need to buy and sell cattle during the current Covid-19 pandemic.
Back in 2018, during the fodder crisis, hundreds of its members reached out to help each other via the Herdwatch Fodder Exchange, with offers of fodder for sale to other farmers at a time of need.
In a statement, a company spokesperson said: “As part of this battle against Covid-19, marts have had to close their doors and even if re-opened, will operate under restrictions, meaning that some farmers will not have an outlet to sell or buy cattle at one of the busiest periods of the year.”
“Today, the Covid-19 crisis is threatening farming and the wider world, that is why Herdwatch decided once again to make use of their technology platform to help connect farmers who need to sell animals with farmers who want to buy animals.” the spokesperson added.
How does it work?
- Go to – www.herdwatch.com – and click on the link for ‘Covid Cattle Exchange’;
- Tell them where you are and what you are selling or looking for;
- Herdwatch will then add this to the listings page on their website.
Support
The ICSA has given their support with its suckler chairman, Ger O’Brien, ICSA, commenting: “It is absolutely essential farmers are allowed to continue moving animals, in a safe manner, and we commend FRS Herdwatch for all of their efforts to support farmers in this way.”
“The next few weeks and months are going to be hard and everyone is dependent on farmers who not only need to keep the food supply chain going but they also get ready for the breeding season.”
“A free service like this will be very beneficial to farmers in doing this, whether they are looking for breeding stock or stores at this time.”
‘Essential parts of our daily life’
Mervyn Harvey from Herdwatch also added: “Farming and the wider agriculture industry are an essential part of our daily lives, which Herdwatch and FRS Farm Relief Services are very proud to be part of and understand their members and all farmers’ ability to maintain the food supply chain over the coming weeks will be critical to the fight against Covid-19.”
“We are very encouraged to see over 100 farmers reaching out to help each other in the first few days. Importantly, this is available to all farmers for free and there are no catches – we are just trying to help so we would encourage all farmers to please share this news with anyone they feel will benefit from the service.” Harvey concluded.
Information
For more information, visit www.herdwatch.com and click on the ‘Covid Cattle Exchange’ button or call: 0505-34400.
