Underpinning policy through cattle performance analysis (ENRA 2025 poster)

Cattle Tracing System (CTS) data analysis underpins a series of evidence papers to policymakers. Initial analysis informed a conceptual paper on opportunities for the introduction increased conditionality in the Scottish Suckler Beef Support Scheme.  Bespoke analysis was then undertaken for the SSBSS Reform Stakeholder Group in helping it form advice on scheme design to officials and Ministers.  Analysis on payment rates linked CTS data with RPID data, and further analysis on mortality and seasonality was undertaken in response to industry concerns following Cabinet Secretary announcement of the 410-day calving interval eligibility criteria from 2025.  Presentations were made to officials, stakeholder groups, industry and ARIOB.  Further analysis forms the evidence for a small herd derogation that was announced by the Minister.  Analysis continues to inform the Livestock Genetics Group, the Strategic Advisory Group on the National GHG Inventory for the Scottish Beef Sector, and informs the annual Climate Change Plan monitoring report.