Bluetongue on the Island: What Livestock Farmers Need to Know

Bluetongue on the Island: What Livestock Farmers Need to Know
Wight Rural Hub invite livestock farmers and keepers to a practical evening update focused on the questions many farmers are now asking:

• What should I be looking out for?
• How could Bluetongue affect breeding animals and fertility?
• Should I be vaccinating?
• What are the implications for livestock movements and sales?
• What should I be doing now to prepare for winter and next spring?

This event has been funded by The Royal Countryside Fund‘s Emergency Grant Programme, helping farm support organisations provide timely advice and practical support to farmers facing the challenges posed by Bluetongue.
What you’ll learn from Hannah Kenway of Carisbrooke Farm Vets
By the end of the evening, you’ll have a clearer understanding of:
✅ The current Bluetongue situation on the Island and across Great Britain
✅ How to recognise the clinical signs of Bluetongue in cattle and sheep
✅ The potential impacts on fertility, breeding performance and future productivity
✅ Vaccination options, availability, costs and practical benefits
✅ New reporting and sampling procedures
✅ How Bluetongue could affect livestock movements, sales and business planning
✅ What to expect over the winter months and what next spring could bring
✅ Emerging disease risks and how to build resilience on your farm
The session will include plenty of opportunity to ask questions and discuss concerns with our local veterinary specialist.
Event Details

• Thursday 15 October 2026
• 6:30pm – 9pm including supper
• Porchfield Cricket Club
• Places are free but booking is essential.

Who Should Attend?

• Beef farmers
• Dairy farmers
• Sheep farmers
• Mixed livestock businesses
• Smallholders with susceptible livestock
• Agricultural advisers and industry professionals (advisors pay £20 to cover attendance)

Whether you keep ten sheep or a thousand, this session will provide practical, locally relevant information to help you make informed decisions over the coming months.

Reserve a Spot