Producers from around Britain gathered for the annual British Goose Producers’ farm walk this month to share best practice, discuss production methods, and look at the future development of the sector.
The annual meeting this year was hosted by the Botterill family on their farm G.B. Geese, situated on the Leicestershire and Lincolnshire borders. The farm which produces geese, turkeys, chickens and ducks, has been run by the family for over 70 years and is currently led by Gerald and Ann Botterill, alongside their son and his wife Jo.
With a proud traditional rearing and preparation techniques history now combined with innovative technology, the hosts gave attendees a tour of the purpose-built processing facilities before viewing the geese roaming in fields surrounding the farmyard. Members also heard how the geese are driven down the road each morning and evening, creating quite the spectacle, even drawing media attention and visitors to the small village.
Later during the annual meeting the importance of full traceability and welfare standards was discussed, along with the continuing challenge of finding sufficient labour caused by the uncertainty of Brexit. A new British Goose Producers Code of Practice from the British Poultry Council was also distributed, designed to assist farmers keep their farms and stock safe from potential hazards such as biosecurity and ensuring the health and welfare of their birds.