Severn Edge Farm Vets were proud to attend and sponsor the 2026 British Cattle Breeding Conference (BCBC), held from 19–21 January at the Telford Hotel & Golf Resort. As part of CVS Farm Vets, we were delighted to represent the wider group alongside clinical leads and veterinary colleagues from across the UK. This year’s event carried an especially forward‑looking tone, offering fresh insights into genetics, sustainability, and practical on‑farm innovation—topics that closely align with our mission to continually improve outcomes for our clients and their cattle.
A Conference Focused on Turning Research Into Practice
The conference, organised annually by the British Cattle Breeders Club and chaired this year by Dr Alex Brown, centred around the theme “Joining the Dots: From Blue Skies to Green Fields.” The focus was clear: bridging the gap between cutting‑edge research and real‑world farming, addressing the persistent challenge of scientific findings failing to reach the farm gate effectively. Dr Brown highlighted the need for better communication and collaboration between researchers and farmers to ensure innovation has genuine impact on the ground.
This emphasis on practical application resonated strongly with our team. As farm vets working closely with beef and dairy producers every day, we know first-hand that research only drives progress when it can be realistically implemented in the sheds, parlours, and fields where our clients work.
Interactive Learning and Knowledge Sharing
A major enhancement for 2026 was the introduction of more interactive sessions than ever before, beginning with Monday’s hands-on breeding workshop. Aimed at both vets and farmers, this session provided practical tools to support genetic improvement planning for both dairy and beef herds. It was a welcome opportunity for our team to strengthen their ability to support breeding decision-making on farm—an area where small improvements can create long-term gains.
Beef Day on Tuesday, attended by Megan Burgess, brought together farmers, funders, academics, and industry leaders to discuss why some innovations stall before reaching commercial use—and how to break down those barriers. The day also featured a keynote by Dr Craig Lewis, recipient of the Sir John Hammond Award, who emphasised that innovation only creates value when adopted at farm level.
For our vets, understanding the broader landscape of research adoption helps us guide clients not only in “what works,” but in how to integrate new strategies realistically into their systems.
Exploring the Future of Fertility and Sustainability
Wednesday’s Dairy Day, attended by Holly Tench & Georgia Corrie tackled some of the industry’s most current and debated topics. A panel discussing the use of IVF in cattle breeding offered a balanced look at the benefits, risks, and practical considerations. These insights are highly relevant as more UK herds show interest in advanced reproductive technologies to accelerate genetic gain or manage replacement strategies.
We were also particularly interested in Aled Davies’ presentation on the Welsh Government-funded trial investigating how biological treatment of slurry could reduce ammonia emissions and positively impact grass growth. As environmental regulation tightens and farmers face pressure to reduce emissions, evidence-based solutions like these could become increasingly valuable tools on British farms.
Why Our Sponsorship Matters at the British Cattle Breeding Conference
As part of CVS Farm Vets, Severn Edge Farm Vets were thrilled to help sponsor this year’s conference—an event that plays a pivotal role in driving progress in cattle breeding, genetics, and sustainable production. Our sponsorship reflects our commitment not just to clinical excellence, but to supporting the future of the farming industry more broadly.
Having vets from across the CVS group attend also strengthens our collaborative network. Sharing knowledge, discussing emerging research, and comparing experiences helps ensure that innovations reach our clients faster and are tailored to the realities of farm systems across the Midlands, and beyond.
Looking Ahead: Bringing Innovation Back to the Farm
We return from the 2026 British Cattle Breeding Conference inspired and motivated. Whether it’s enhancing breeding consultations, supporting sustainability initiatives, or helping producers evaluate new technologies like IVF, the knowledge gained in Telford will directly influence our work throughout the year.
Most importantly, we remain committed to “joining the dots” between research and practice—ensuring that our clients benefit from the very latest evidence, delivered in practical, actionable ways.
