That is the message NFUS has given to the Scottish Executive in response to its plan for new biosecurity regulations.
It follows a survey of animal show organisers which showed that three quarters of them are concerned about the future viability of their show if the current proposals are not amended.
The new regulations cover all types of animal gatherings, from large-scale livestock markets to small local agricultural shows or sheepdog trials.
In January, SEERAD addressed a meeting attended by around 150 representatives from approximately 80 agricultural events. A survey conducted at the meeting showed that 74% said the rules would affect their viability.
The issue of most concern is a proposed ban on livestock being on land that is used for a show for 27 days prior to the event and 27 days after.
Many shows rely on local farmers giving up their land for a day to host the event – a ban on livestock using that land as extensive as is proposed would prevent many farmers doing this.
NFUS is proposing that the 27 day restriction prior to the event should be reduced to 21 days, in keeping with current guidance regarding e-coli. The restrictions after the event should be reviewed on a case by case basis depending on specific risks.
However, as a baseline, the current 13-day standstill for livestock movements should be adopted.
Concerns also centre on the requirement for local events to appoint a biosecurity officer who would presumably have to have suitable training and would carry liability in the event of a disease outbreak. This is impractical for small events that rely on local volunteers.
NFUS president John Kinnaird said: "These proposed rules cover a vast array of livestock gatherings, from large-scale marts to small, local stock-judging events. For that reason, we welcome SEERAD's principle that controls should be robust but flexible enough to allow activities to continue. Unfortunately though, the current proposals don't meet that principle.
"When three quarters of local agricultural shows doubt they will be able to operate under the rules, it is time to go back to the drawing board.
"It needs to be borne in mind that local agricultural shows have effectively regulated themselves through the biosecurity code. Replacing that system, which has undoubtedly worked, with a statutory licensing requirement is heavy-handed.
"The Executive has engaged with industry and has made it clear it is open to reviewing what is proposed and that is what consultation should be all about.
"We have proposed some specific changes. I have no doubt these will still deliver the disease controls we all want, but will also allow local events, which are hugely important to rural communities, to continue."