NFU Scotland called on buyers, processors and retailers to 'take note' of the decline
Milk buyers, processors and retailers need to take note of the falling number of dairy farms across Scotland, with the industry set to look ‘very different' in five years' time.
That was the message from NFU Scotland milk committee chair Gary Mitchell as Scottish Dairy Cattle Association (SDCA) figures show Scotland lost seven dairy herds in the first half of 2021, taking the number of herds to 836.
Ayrshire, Kintyre and Lanarkshire each lost two herds, whereas Dumfriesshire gained two new dairies.
"Securing a profitable future in milk production must be consideration not just for current producers, but for all the stakeholders that rely on the positive messages that Scottish dairy farmers have to tell and the great product they produce," he said.
Market
While he said he appreciated the ‘complexities' of the market, but he had spoken to farmers being paid 15 per cent less than Defra's UK average farmgate milk price.
He added the disparity in milk contracts ‘needs to be addressed'.
"While it is welcome news that there have been some new herds enter the dairy industry in Scotland, my main concern is the number of farms that have ceased production," he said.
"These stretch across Scotland, highlighting that the problems in the industry are widespread."
Janette Mathie, secretary of SDCA who maintains the database, said: "Compared to this time last year there is more stability in the dairy industry with increased milk and cattle prices.
"Cow numbers have also increased but so has investment with new parlours and cattle housing being installed," she said.
"However, we are aware of some herds who will cut back or even cease production during the next few months, giving dairy farmers throughout the country the opportunity to invest in good breeding cow families."
