New Floctest Pilot Seeks Welsh Sheep Farmers to Put Genetics to the Test
Welsh sheep farmers are being invited to take part in a new pilot project that will provide unique insight into flock performance while helping businesses make more informed breeding decisions.
The Floctest: EBVs in Action pilot forms part of the Welsh Sheep Genetics project, funded by Welsh Government and delivered by Hybu Cig Cymru – Meat Promotion Wales (HCC). The initiative aims to assess the impact of using high genetic merit, performance-recorded rams alongside existing stock rams within hill and maternal sheep flocks.
Using DNA technology, the project will compare the progeny of performance-recorded rams against those of farmers' current stock rams in a "blind test". Up to 400 ewes in each participating flock, together with retained stock rams and all resulting lambs, will be DNA tested. This approach removes the need for single-sire mating groups and allows farmers to continue with their normal flock management practices
The pilot will measure a range of key performance indicators, including breeding efficiency, scanning and lambing rates, lamb growth rates and carcase characteristics. Lamb liveweights will be recorded at several stages throughout production, while carcase data such as conformation, fat class and deadweight will be used to compare the performance of the two groups of rams.
Farmers who take part in Floctest will receive support to develop a bespoke Breeding Action Plan, helping them identify breeding objectives and better understand how Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs) can be used to drive flock improvement and profitability.
Dr. Eleri Thomas from Hybu Cig Cymru explained: “As part of the project, farmers will receive practical support with data collection and interpretation from HCC and delivery partners Innovis and Signet. A subsidy of up to £1,000 per ram is available for a minimum of two and a maximum of four qualifying performance-recorded rams purchased for the study.
The pilot is open to sheep farmers in Wales and seeks a diverse mix of breeds, farming systems and geographical regions. We’d warmly encourage anyone interested to contact us for further details and information.”
How to Apply
Farmers interested in taking part should express interest by sending their details to genetics@hybucig.cymru or contacting HCC via 01970 625050. Successful applicants will be contacted for further information about their flock and business.
Deadline
The deadline for expressions of interest is Monday 12 October 2026.
For more information, farmers can contact genetics@hybucig.cymru or click here.
