The summer holidays are here - a popular time for walkers to get out and enjoy the countryside. So NFU Cymru and the Ramblers Association have issued a timely reminder for people to take care when out in fields with livestock.
With around 3.6 billion tourist trips to the countryside each year, walkers make up 18 per cent of all visitors to rural areas. Figures show that about 18.7 million days of walking took place in the Welsh countryside in 2009 and the numbers are set to rise. But with this increase comes extra responsibility.
NFU Cymru President Ed Bailey said, “The countryside is a pleasure to walk in but it is primarily working land, where animals graze and crops are grown to feed the nation. As with any work environment it’s important that those who visit are aware of any risks and take care.
“We encourage walkers to keep dogs on leads when walking in fields with livestock. Of course, farmers also play their part in that, to the best of their knowledge, animals in fields crossed by public rights of way or on open access land are safe.
“There are some common-sense things people should do to minimise the risk of an accident happening such as not walking between a cow and its calf and keeping dogs under control on a lead. These precautions all go a long way to ensuring people can continue enjoying the countryside responsibly and safely.
Walkers also need to be aware of the risk unleashed dogs pose to sheep and lambs as they can chase, attack, maim and kill. Sadly, such incidents are on the increase, a situation which, together with fouling, cannot be allowed to continue. We call on responsible walkers and dog owners to report those that transgress” Mr Bailey said.
Thankfully, incidents where members of the public have been hurt or killed by livestock while walking through fields are very rare, but farmers and walkers alike have a part to play in minimising any potential dangers.
Ramblers Cymru Director Angela Charlton said, “The British countryside is working land where animals roam in close proximity to walkers, which is why it’s such a pleasure to walk in. Farmers are aware of their responsibilities and the need to protect the safety of anyone who may come into contact with livestock. However, members of the public can also play their part in reducing the risk of an accident by following the Ramblers’ advice.”
Guidelines from the Ramblers:
Do
• try to avoid getting between cows and their calves
• be prepared for cattle to react to your presence, especially if you have a dog with you
• move quickly and quietly, and if possible walk around the herd
• keep your dog close and under effective control on a lead around cows and sheep
Do not
• hang onto your dog. If you are threatened by cattle, let it go and the cattle will chase the dog
• put yourself at risk. Find another way around cattle and re-join the path as soon as possible
• panic or run. Most cattle will stop before they reach you. If they follow, just walk on quietly
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