Herd number application straightforward, but don’t leave it until the last minute

Even for snail farming, you need a herd number

Each herd number applicant has to fill out two forms to be submitted with land ownership or lease agreements, and a farm inspection usually occurs. 

Applying for a herd number is an important task for many farmers at this time of year, ahead of the May 17 application deadline for the Basic Farm Payment Scheme.

Some herd number applicants are looking to start farming, some with herd numbers want to change the name or add a name to the herd number, some will need to transfer entitlements, others are applying for the Young Farmer’s Scheme, says Andy Ryder, drystock adviser, Teagasc Westport.