An Edinburgh-based livestock adviser has been named Farm Adviser of the Year at the 2026 British Farming Awards, recognising her work helping farmers improve animal welfare.
Chloe Rodriguez, who works with farmers across Scotland and northern England, was recognised for her research-led approach and practical advice on livestock housing.
Working with dairy, beef and pig farmers, Ms Rodriguez assesses buildings and recommends improvements to ventilation, airflow, temperature and humidity to create healthier environments for animals.
Her work helps farmers identify and address issues including respiratory disease and heat stress, with 116 farm visits and knowledge-exchange sessions completed over the past year.
A graduate of Harper Adams University, Ms Rodriguez began her career with Galebreaker after receiving a bursary placement with the company.
Alongside her advisory role, she contributes to research with Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC), including the A-SHED project, which is examining the effects of heat stress on dairy cattle in Scotland and Cumbria.
The two-year project involves Galebreaker, SRUC and Smartbell, collecting environmental data from 23 dairy units to investigate how building design, ventilation and humidity affect cow comfort and productivity.
Ms Rodriguez has also contributed to the CEVEC project, which explores how purpose-built calf housing can improve youngstock health, growth and farm efficiency.
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Chloe Rodriguez, Farm Adviser of the Year, said: "It's a huge honour to win Farm Advisor of the Year, and I'm incredibly grateful to the Galebreaker team for supporting me.
"Since moving to Scotland, I've really enjoyed getting to know farmers across the region and helping resolve the challenges they face.
"Every farm is different, and that's what makes the job so interesting.
"Being able to combine research with practical experience and help farmers make changes that benefit their animals is incredibly rewarding.
"There's a real opportunity to use research and data to help farmers better understand what's happening inside their livestock buildings.
"In Scotland, many sheds have traditionally been designed to protect animals from cold, wet and windy conditions, but we're learning more about how those same buildings perform during warmer weather.
"Working with farmers and researchers to turn that knowledge into practical improvements is something I'm particularly passionate about."
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