TREE FODDER IN UK LIVESTOCK SYSTEMS: OPPORTUNITIES AND BARRIERS

In northern European countries, there is little current understanding of the potential of tree fodder. This paper discusses the opportunities and barriers for tree fodder into UK ruminant livestock systems. Key opportunities include improving livestock nutrition and health (particularly as sources of minerals), and as a buffer against climate change impacts or shortages of forage. Key barriers are the mechanisation and management of tree fodder to reduce labour input, and regulatory restrictions that prevent tree and hedge cutting in summer months. Much of the information on tree fodder is anecdotal, and there is a real need for both scientific evidence and practical management advice on differences between tree species and seasonal variations in nutritional value. To take full advantage of this potential, better understanding of the nutritional and health benefits of tree fodder, and more efficient management techniques need to be developed.