Figures released by the Scottish Dairy Cattle Association (SDCA) reveal a net decrease of 30 dairy herds in Scotland during 2024, bring the total number of milking herds to 764. This represents a 23.7% decrease over the last decade. During the same period, the number of dairy cows decreased by 257, making the current total 183,391. Despite these declines, the average herd size has increased to 236, up by nine from the previous year.
Ayrshire experienced the most significant decrease with a net loss of 15 herds, followed by Dumfriesshire with a net loss of five herds. However, both regions saw new dairy herds start up with more expected to begin operations in 2025.
Commenting on the figures, Bruce Mackie, Chair of NFU Scotland’s Milk Committee, said; “It is always disappointing to see a year-on-year decline in the number of Scottish dairy herds a trend that has persisted over the past decade. The continued struggle with labour shortages, rising input costs, increase regulatory pressures, and market uncertainty all contribute to the challenges faced by our dairy farmers.
“Despite these challenges, Scottish dairy farmers are producing more milk from fewer, more efficient cows. This increase in efficiency is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our farmers. Furthermore, the industry is not carrying the ‘carbon cost’ of unproductive animals, which is crucial when addressing climate change and reducing our carbon footprint. The ongoing reduction in the number of farms however highlights a concerning trend. Current policy, market conditions and lack of milk contract opportunities are clearly failing to support generational renewal, as many farmers retire with no successors.
“Although the reduction in dairy herds continues, Scottish herd are more resilient than the rest of the UK, which has experienced even greater percentage falls. According to the SDCA figures, our herds are producing more milk per cow, which is important for both efficiency and reducing the carbon footprint per litre of milk.
“Globally Scotland remains a great place to produce nutritious milk competitively, given our temperate maritime climate, well-invested herds with high average yields, and resistance to climate shocks. We have a great tradition of skilled stockpeople, and with continuing investment in processing infrastructure and a global perspective, I am optimistic that our industry has a bright future ahead.”
