Research Reveals Impact of Facial Eczema on New Zealand Farms

A study conducted by Beef + Lamb New Zealand is currently investigating the impact of facial eczema on sheep farms across the country. The research, which focuses on fresh sheep manure, aims to provide vital insights into how this disease affects livestock health and farm productivity. According to Cara Brosnahan, principal scientist in animal health research, the study has recently entered its third and final season.

During the second season, researchers detected low levels of facial eczema spores on four sheep farms in Otago. Additionally, one farm in Southland reported spore presence in the first season. The disease, caused by toxic fungal spores primarily found in ryegrass pastures, poses a risk to all grazing livestock, excluding horses. Farmers are notified whenever spores are found in their manure samples and are encouraged to continue submitting samples to monitor spore levels.

The study highlights that livestock might not show immediate clinical signs even after ingesting low levels of spores. Subtle indicators of infection can include reduced productivity and increased empty rates during pregnancy scanning. Dr. Brosnahan noted that clinical signs have been observed in areas ranging from Northland to the West Coast, with more than half of the manure samples from the upper part of the South Island demonstrating signs of the disease.

Researchers are examining various factors that may influence the risk of facial eczema, including farm elevation and pasture height. The final season is critical for confirming these relationships. Participation in the study is free and straightforward. Farmers are required to collect samples of sheep manure biweekly from October to May, with Beef + Lamb providing the necessary kits and covering postage costs.

Participants will receive results that help them assess their risk of facial eczema, as well as a $40 subsidy for testing faecal egg counts. They may also qualify for monthly testing as part of a select group of 25 farms. By participating, farmers not only protect their own livestock but contribute to a broader understanding of a disease that costs the sector over $330 million annually.

Dr. Brosnahan emphasized the importance of increased participation, particularly from farmers who have not previously detected facial eczema on their properties. “These results help build our understanding of this devastating disease,” she stated. The consumption of facial eczema spores can lead to severe liver damage in livestock, resulting in issues such as reduced fertility, weight loss, and even death in extreme cases.

Sheep farmer Graham Evans, who operates Barr Falls Farm in Owaka, is actively involved in the study. He collects and sends fresh manure samples to researchers and has not found any facial eczema spores on his property. Evans expressed concern about the inevitable spread of the disease to the southern regions, stating, “It doesn’t matter whether you believe in climate change or not. It’s going to happen.”

Involvement in the study, according to Evans, is crucial for the future of farming in the area. He believes that understanding the condition of sheep farming environments, from the Catlins to Central Otago, is essential for managing the risks associated with facial eczema. His hope is that more farmers in the southern regions will join the effort, as the knowledge gained could significantly benefit future generations of farmers.

Through collaboration and research, the goals of the study extend beyond immediate data collection. The findings aim to enhance the management strategies that farmers can employ to safeguard their livestock against the serious impacts of facial eczema.