If you are unsure of the worm burden on grazing livestock, you can take a faecal sample and get it analysed for worms by your vet or local lab. Gutworm eggs, lungworm larvae, liver fluke eggs, rumen fluke eggs, cryptospiridium parvum and coccidian oocysts may be seen in faecal samples.

Current wet conditions after dry weather could increase worm activity. Lungworm is unpredictable and can cause problems before larvae are picked up in faecal samples so be vigilant for signs of coughing.

Spraying:

Fields that were cut for silage three to four weeks ago are now at an ideal stage for spraying for docks. Leaving them to spray until a seed head is produced will not get an effective kill. Spraying may check grass a little so take care if grass is in short supply. Spraying in the morning or late evening and avoiding very sunny conditions will help herbicide uptake. Make sure you have your sprayer course completed and the sprayer has been tested fit for use.

Rush spray ban looms

'A single drop of MCPA in an Olympic-size pool will contaminate the water'

Beef management: Faecal sampling and spraying

Fields that were cut for silage three to four weeks ago are now at an ideal stage for spraying for docks, according to Adam Woods.