An economic analysis of two schemes for the control of helminthiasis in breeding ewes

Abstract

Economic benefits obtained from two schemes for the anthelmintic control of helminthiasis in breeding ewes and their lambs have been assessed in the Western District of Victoria. The results were compared with those from sheep receiving no anthelmintic treatment, and also with those from sheep given anthelmintic every 2 weeks. The results reported in this paper cover the wool-growing years 1971–1972 and 1972–1973, and represent the continuation of a study commenced in 1970. The “critical” treatment scheme yielded the highest net return under all circumstances in both years. The actual net benefit per 100 sheep, in comparison with “no treatment”, was A$213 and 255, respectively; results which were not sensitive to variation in wool prices or animal productivity. The benefit was derived principally from higher fleece weight per ewe, higher prices per kilogramme for better quality wool and, to a lesser extent, from higher values for ewes and lambs. Because net returns from “traditional” treatment groups were lower, A$ 95 and 103, respectively, and were sensitive to variations in animal productivity, this scheme could not be recommended for routine use.