The Agri-Food & Biosciences Institute (AFBI) was created on 1st April 2006 as an amalgamation of the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) Science Service and the Agricultural Research Institute of Northern Ireland (ARINI). AFBI is a DARD Non-Departmental Public Body (NDPB).

AFBI carries out high technology research and development, statutory, analytical, and diagnostic testing functions for DARD and other Government departments, public bodies and commercial companies.

DARD recognises the importance of research in helping us achieve our strategic goals and objectives. We have a long history of funding and carrying out research within the areas of agriculture, fisheries, forestry and food. Much of our sponsored research has been translated into practical applications on farm, food processing and other rural businesses.

We have also invested substantially in research to help shape government policy on agri-food issues which has helped develop this important sector.

Part of the British Society of Animal Science, our objective is to provide short and incisive ‘bytes’ of information on topical themes and current research within the field of UK Animal Science

The aim of BSAS is to enhance the understanding of animal sciences and to promote its integration into economic and ethical systems.  Within this role the Society holds an annual meeting, occasional symposia and produces a scientific journal (Animal).  Animal Bytes takes a selection of these articles and presents them in a more readable format for end-users such as farmers, technical advisors, policy makers and students.  Each article has a link to the original summary, conference presentation or scientific paper (if available) should more in depth information be required.  There is also a link to the full range of conference proceedings.
 

The Livestock and Meat Commission for Northern Ireland (LMC) is an Executive Non-Departmental Public Body, which was established by Statute (The Livestock Marketing Commission Act [Northern Ireland] 1967) to assist the development of the livestock and livestock products industries. LMC’s sponsor body is the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD). LMC collects statutory levies from beef and sheep producers and slaughterers in Northern Ireland and in return provides a range of services to the industry. LMC also advises DARD on matters relating to the sector.

Founded in 1918, the Ulster Farmers' Union (UFU) is the largest democratic voluntary organisation representing farmers and growers in Northern Ireland. It's central objective is to promote their interests both at home and abroad through professional lobbying.

Today, the UFU has over 11,500 members. Members are supported by 25 regional offices and headquarters building in Belfast. The Union's commercial subsidiary, Countryside Services Ltd, is located in Dungannon.

COWS aims to provide the best available, evidence-based information to the cattle industry in relation to the sustainable control of parasites in cattle.

The initiative’s original scope was to provide the best available technical information to vets, advisors and farmers about the sustainable management of worms and fluke in both beef and dairy cattle.