The Welsh Sheep Genetics Programme (WSGP) has achieved remarkable success, showcasing the transformative power of genetics in enhancing the economic and environmental viability of sheep farming in Wales. A recent review conducted in 2025 reveals significant financial returns and scientific advancements, underscoring the crucial role of genetic improvement within Welsh sheep flocks.
The WSGP features 87 performance-recording flocks across Wales, accounting for over 14,500 ewes. This extensive farmer engagement is translating into substantial financial benefits. The review indicates an average cumulative improvement rate of £0.91 per ewe per year, leading to an uplift in annual margin of £3.50 per ewe for participating farmers, amounting to a total annual margin uplift of £50,750.
Measurable Gains in Productivity
Participating flocks have experienced impressive productivity improvements, including an average increase of 1 kg in lamb weight and a 3% rise in lamb survival rates. These advancements are generating additional financial benefits for Welsh farm businesses, enhancing their overall profitability.
Will Sawday, a Welsh sheep farmer from Hay-on-Wye and active participant in the WSGP, reflects on the programme’s impact. “We have been performance recording for 30 years, and it has become an integral tool for our genetic improvement,” he stated. Sawday emphasized that relying solely on visual assessments for maternal traits is inadequate.
“I am so pleased and grateful to be a part of this programme. It has brought so much value to our business in allowing us to record for many more traits and collect much more data that I otherwise wouldn’t have done. I can already see the genetic improvements.” He also noted that the WSGP has elevated their performance recording efforts by not only enhancing existing data collection but also introducing new metrics, such as methane emissions, which will bolster future business resilience.
Innovative Approaches Reshape the Industry
The WSGP has positioned Wales as a leader in livestock innovation, directly aligning with key objectives set forth by the Welsh Government, particularly in climate change mitigation and the adoption of new technologies. A significant milestone was achieved in June 2023 when the programme introduced Genomic Estimated Breeding Values (GEBVs) to its flocks, marking the first global deployment of genomics in sheep.
The programme’s success is a national asset, with WSGP-sourced data now accounting for 70% of the UK’s national sheep genotypes, representing over 77,000 genotypes to date. The initiative is addressing critical challenges within the industry by developing new genetic tools designed to select animals that are less susceptible to gastrointestinal parasites, through innovations like the ‘Parasite Plus’ Estimated Breeding Value (EBV). Furthermore, the programme explores breeding strategies to produce animals that emit less methane, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability.
Despite the programme’s notable initial achievements, genetic improvement is a long-term strategy that necessitates ongoing dedication to fully realize its benefits. The newly recruited flocks at the programme’s inception are now at a pivotal stage, witnessing the first advantages as early-recorded lambs integrate into breeding stock.
Eirwen Williams, Director of Service Delivery (Rural Programmes) at Mentera, emphasized the importance of genetic improvement for sustainability. “Genetic improvement is a proven, effective means of improving the sustainability of our hill and maternal flocks,” she stated.
The WSGP’s efforts highlight a significant shift in Welsh sheep farming, illustrating how genetic advancements can lead to both economic viability and environmental stewardship. As the programme continues to evolve, it holds the potential to redefine the future of sheep farming in Wales and beyond.
