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Hill Ram Scheme


Investing in Welsh upland farming and the rural economy which depends on it by applying the latest breeding technology and performance recording in the hill sheep sector.

Hill farming is crucial to the economy, culture and society of rural Wales.

The Hill Ram Scheme brings the latest technology to upland flocks in Wales with the aim of strengthening the Welsh sheep sector through long-term genetic improvement.

During the project, up to 45 farm businesses will be utilising DNA parentage technology to understand their flock’s genetic performance – allowing farmers to improve their flocks and meet market requirements with little to no change to their extensive systems and also creating a critical mass of performance-recorded hill flocks within Wales’ stratified sheep system.

The Hill Ram Scheme flocks form a geographically diverse network – including 7 Leader Flocks who will act as exemplars within the Scheme. 

All flocks receive support and training as part of the Scheme to guide them in how to record their flocks, analyse and communicate the results as well as strengthening their stock marketing techniques.

Working with farmers and vets to promote proactive flock and herd health management, to help Wales lead the world in animal welfare, sustainability and efficiency.

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Developing a blueprint for the whole supply chain to ensure that we deliver top taste consistency to consumers of PGI Welsh Lamb.

Click here for more about Welsh Lamb Meat Quality

HCC is also a partner in the BeefQ project, led by Aberystwyth University, which is looking to increase the eating quality and value of PGI Welsh Beef production.
Click here to learn more.