Roger, who farms at Poyerston Farm near Pembroke Dock, received the award in recognition of the significant progress he has made in reducing antibiotic use on his farm through a strong focus on disease prevention, biosecurity and herd health.
The Arwain DGC Vet & Farmer Awards celebrate the achievements of livestock farmers, veterinarians and veterinary practices across Wales who are leading the way in tackling antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and reducing the need for antibiotics while maintaining high standards of animal health and welfare.
Implementing preventative measures
Roger has successfully reduced antibiotic use on his dairy farm by implementing a range of preventative measures, including enhanced biosecurity and the pasteurisation of colostrum for all autumn-calving cows to reduce exposure to harmful pathogens.
As a member of the Pembrokeshire Project, an initiative aimed at empowering farmers and vets to control bovine tuberculosis at a local level, Roger has also worked closely with veterinary professionals to improve herd health and resilience.
Passionate advocate
Alongside the work undertaken on his own farm, Roger has been a passionate advocate for sharing best practice across the industry. In his role as Chair of the NFU Cymru Bovine TB Focus Group, he has helped inform discussions around practical bovine TB control measures and has spoken at farmer discussion groups, NFU Cymru events and Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) meetings.
Speaking after receiving the award, Roger said:
"Our focus has been on disease prevention rather than cure, which can be achieved in a number of ways, from vaccination and improving building ventilation to pasteurising all the milk fed to cows. We also practice selective dry cow therapy with 90% of our milking herd, and nutrition is absolutely key to keeping animals healthy and productive."
Commenting on the award, NFU Cymru President Abi Reader said:
"We are delighted to see Roger recognised for his dedication to improving animal health and reducing the need for antibiotics. As a highly respected dairy farmer and Chair of NFU Cymru's Bovine TB Focus Group, Roger consistently demonstrates the benefits of a preventative approach to livestock health.
His willingness to share knowledge and experience with fellow farmers is invaluable, and this award is thoroughly deserved recognition of the work he has undertaken both on his own farm and across the wider industry."
Roger's achievement highlights the important role Welsh farmers are playing in tackling antimicrobial resistance through proactive herd health planning, innovation and a commitment to continuous improvement.
