Important information for deer managers in Scotland
The first of three legislative changes for Scottish deer managers came into force on 21 October 2023, following a Scottish government consultation earlier this year.
Applications now open for Defra deer chiller trailer grants
Defra is now inviting applications for this year’s Farming Equipment and Technology Fund. The scheme includes grants of up to 50 per cent for deer chiller trailers.
The application window for the Farming Equipment and Technology Fund (FETF) opened on 29 May and closes at midday on 10 July.
The FETF is part of the Farming Investment Fund. It helps farmers, growers, foresters, contractors and land managers invest in equipment and technology in a range of areas, including deer management.
It is important to note that the fund is competitive. Once the application window closes, all applications will be reviewed and scored. See the FETF website for details of how to apply and the scoring system used to select successful applications.
Deer chiller trailer qualifying specifications
To qualify for a grant the deer chiller must meet the following specifications:
FETF423 – Chiller trailer for deer carcasses
Expected average cost of item: £15,091
Grant available per trailer: 50 per cent (£7,545)
Score: 58
Item must:
- be a chiller trailer for deer carcasses
- be constructed to food grade standard with minimum 55mm insulation on all walls
- have a maximum gross weight for trailer (including payload) no more than 1500kg
- have a maximum internal height not exceeding 2.0m
- contain two high level hanging rails
- include a minimum of 20 double roller-hooks or 20 gambrels with single roller-hooks to allow for the hanging 20 deer carcasses
- operate in temperature range of 1°C to 8°C, trailers with freezer capability not eligible
- have a lockable rear door
- be fitted with a rear carcass lift with winch
- be fitted with a temperature data logger to monitor and record temperature when in use
- be fitted with a rear non-slip galvanised step
FETF424 – Large chiller trailer for deer carcasses
Expected average cost of item: £19,839
Grant available per trailer: 50 per cent (£9,919)
Score: 61
Item must meet the specifications for FETF 423 above, with the following adjustments:
- have a maximum gross weight for the trailer (including payload) no more than 3500kg
- include a minimum of 30 double roller-hooks or 30 gambrels with single roller-hooks to allow for the hanging of 30 deer carcasses
For both categories, you must provide the item’s serial number when you submit your claim.
Read more information on the fund and find details of how to apply here.
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Important information for deer managers in Scotland
Three key changes will come into force later this year for deer managers in Scotland.
BASC statement on launch of Scottish deer consultation
BASC Scotland responded today to the launch of a major Scottish Government consultation on deer management.