Rural Payments and Services

A new report has highlighted how beef producers are making their herds more environmentally efficient through improved calving performance.

Analysis by the SRUC shows that the number of days between calvings has fallen from a mean of 403 days in 2019 to 391 days in 2025.

A shorter calving interval means farmers have fewer days when their herd is costing them money and generating carbon emissions without helping to produce beef.

In 2025, the Scottish Government introduced a new calving interval condition for the Scottish Suckler Beef Support Scheme (SSBSS). Calves are only eligible for a SSBSS payment if their dam has a calving interval threshold of 410 days or less, or if the calf is the first registered birth associated with that dam.

The report suggests this approach is paying off. Excess associated emissions are down by around 35,000 tonnes CO2e in 2025 compared with 2015.

In light of the report, the Scottish Government has also confirmed that the 410 day requirement will remain unchanged in 2027. Calves from small herds are exempt from the calving interval requirement.

The analysis undertaken by SRUC illustrated that by targeting cows with lower calving intervals, we are recognising best practice and ensuring we are funding active livestock producers. The small herd derogation announced last year will mean we also recognise the value of smaller farms and crofts in rural communities across Scotland.

The full report is available on the SRUC website