Module Identifier RD15110  
Module Title BEEF AND SHEEP PRODUCTION  
Academic Year 2001/2002  
Co-ordinator Dr Basil Wolf  
Semester Semester 1  
Assessment Assignment   Technical report Outcomes assessed: 1, 2, 3, 4   50%  
  Exam   1.5 Hours Outcomes assessed: 1, 2, 3, 4   50%  

Outcomes


Outcome 1
Describe the components of UK sheep production systems.
Performance criteria:
a) Differences between systems are identified and described with appropriate discussion of the impact of sheep systems on the
   environment.
b) Flock management systems are examined and discussed.
c) Aspects of sheep health and welfare are identified.
Ranges:
Breeds of sheep associated with the UK sheep industry; selection and role of different breeds; hill, upland and lowland sheep production systems; autumn flock management, flock health routines; nutrition of the ewe prior to mating and the influence of body condition on ovulation rate; nutrition of the ewe during pregnancy and lactation; the biology of wool growth and care of wool on the farm; care and management of the ewe and newborn lamb; inwintering and outwintering of the flock.


Outcome 2
Describe common beef production systems and identify physical and financial input : output relationships.
Performance criteria:
a) Physical and financial production targets are identified.
b) The value of production targets in monitoring performance is recognised.
Ranges:
Beef systems of importance in the UK; environmental issues affecting certain beef production systems.


Outcome 3
Recognise the application of scientific principles in the development of beef production systems.
Performance criteria:
a) Potential flexibility in nutritional management is identified and related to system targets.
b) Appropriate animal types are identified for each beef production system.
c) Major disease problems and their prevention, treatment and control are described.
Ranges:
One of either suckled calves, dairy bred calves or finishing beef cattle.


Outcome 4
Identify the relationship between physical and financial performance in a range of sheep production systems.
Performance criteria:
a) The components of physical and financial performance are identified.
b) Aspects of sheep enterprize planning are discussed.
Ranges:
Gross Margin analysis; fixed and variable costs; the influence of stocking rate and lambing performance on financial output; reducing costs; planning the sheep enterprize; aspects of store lamb production; labour resource implications.

Module description


This module provides the means by which students may develop the essential knowledge, understanding and skills common to a range of beef and sheep production systems. The content of the module provides a framework to which students can add more practical skills acquired and developed during the period of work experience. The module also provides an essential base for the understanding and comprehension of scientific knowledge related to effective management, which forms an essential component of the module in advanced animal production.