The agricultural industry has several schemes and regulations in action currently that are intended to protect the livelihoods of farmers, the health of stock, and the wider community of consumers. It is important that your livestock dealer is aware of all of the regulations and requirements so that you do not find yourself at the end of a fine or failed sale.
Old Cattle Disposal Scheme
The OCDS (Old Cattle Disposal Scheme) affects all cattle farmers and livestock dealers, as well as auctioneers and abattoirs. In essence, the OCDS was put in place to ensure that all cattle born prior to the 1st of August 1996 would not enter the food chain. This was in compliance with the Over Thirty Month (OTM) rule, and to ease concerns about the spread of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE). The UK government will be offering compensation for each head of cattle that is disposed of under the OCDS up until the 31st of December 2008. Livestock dealers play an active part in the sale and disposal process.
National Fallen Livestock Scheme
The NFSS (National Fallen Stock Scheme) involves any livestock farmers who need to dispose of their animals after either natural or illness-related death. UK law now forbids the burning or burying of fallen stock on farmland; this regulation has been introduced to reduce the spread of disease. The NFSS provides farmers with alternative means of disposal through approved channels. Livestock dealers can offer guidance on the best route.
Other Legislation
Your livestock dealer should also be familiar with the following animal by-products legislature: the Animal By-Products Regulation (EC) no. 1774/2002; the Animal By-Products Regulations 2005 (England); the Animal By-Products (Wales) Regulations 2006; the Animal By-Products (Scotland) Regulations 2003; and the Animal By-Products Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2003. These regulations govern the processing and shipment of all animal by-products and are especially relevant for farm to abattoir sales and abattoir procurement deals.