October 2023 | Issue 144
UNRIVALLED EXPERIENCE AND EXPERTISE IN GREEN BEDDING
With more Separators and Green Bedding systems installed UK and Worldwide, Bauer is uniquely qualified to provide advice, products and support for your Green Bedding System
■ ECONOMICAL
■ ALWAYS AVAILABLE
■ INCREASED COW COMFORT
■ CLEANER COWS
■ NO DUST
“Cows have cleaned up no end definitely as clean as cows on sand and the number of mastitis cases has dropped dramatically.”
Defra permit the use of RMS (Recycled Manure Solids) as bedding for dairy cattle. Farms using RMS must notify APHA and Red Tractor
“Having an unlimited supply of material means you can use more of it.”
VISIT NOFENCE AT AGRISCOT TO LEARN ABOUT VIRTUAL FENCING OPPORTUNITIES
Nofence virtual fencing technology is opening up new precision livestock management opportunities for Scottish livestock producers
Visit Nofence at AgriScot to learn about virtual fencing technology opportunities
Nofence virtual fencing technology is opening up new precision livestock management opportunities for Scottish livestock producers by removing the barrier of physical fencing.
Livestock grazers can speak to Scottish beef producers and company representatives about the use of virtual fencing on the Nofence stand #22 in the Highland Hall at AgriScot on November 22.
With nearly five years of operation on UK farms, Nofence uses a combination of GPS, cellular communication and audio signals to work with animal behaviour and create a virtual fence perimeter that can be monitored and changed with a smartphone app.
Suitable for extensive upland and intensive managed grazing, the Nofence app allows farmers to set virtual pasture boundaries by picking up GPS surveying
from available satellites. Livestock wearing Nofence collars can then be turned out on the set area to graze with no physical fencing. When an animal crosses the Nofence boundary, an audio warning will start. If the animal does not turn around when cued with the audio signal, it will receive an electric pulse. The collars which issue the pulse and track animal location are developed with solar panels to ensure long-lasting battery life throughout the grazing season.
How virtual fencing is opening up grazing opportunities in Scotland
For Scottish Highlands livestock farmers, Jez and Ali Robinson near Loch Rannoch in Perthshire, Nofence virtual fencing technology has allowed the couple to utilise extensive hill grazing and increase the size of their pedigree Highland Cattle herd on the nearly 4,500 acre estate.
In the summer of 2021, the farm acquired its first set of Nofence collars which the couple maintain has been a game-changer for the business.
By using the Nofence system, the farm is able to utilise un-fenced hill and mountain grazing land that previously could only really be grazed by hefted Blackface sheep flocks. Nofence virtual fencing makes grazing such areas with Highland Cattle both possible and sustainable. Apart from knowing where your cattle are located 24/7, the dynamic nature of the system allows the operator to exclude hazardous or vulnerable terrain and watercourses, while also providing grazing pattern data.
“Nofence virtual grazing technology is excellent at enabling dynamic management of grazing areas by adapting and creating virtual fences,” explains Jez. “The analysis tool is an important feature because it shows where grazing concentration has occurred. This allows us to move the fence virtually to exclude areas and prevent overgrazing, ensuring even grazing across an area.”
SILICONE IMPROVED WHEAT REDUCES SLUG DAMAGE
An adaptive and education-based approach to regenerative farming can enhance soil carbon cycling
Arecent study by i2L has shown that applying Sirius, a silicon biostimulant, boosts the natural level of silicon in wheat seed and strengthens the plant. Planting this silicon enhanced farm saved seed has also shown that the following seedlings are stronger and more resilient to attack.
“Through a series of trials, Orion FT has demonstrated that applying Sirius can improve plant health and quality. Silicon is a natural element which plants actively take up to help improve cell strength, cell adhesion, and increase cuticle thickness, all of which improve plant health, making crops more resilient to pests such as slugs,” explains Orion FT managing director James Kennedy.
Previous trials using silicon to strengthen OSR showed a reduction in cabbage stem flea beetle, whilst a similar study showed aphid reduction in sugar beet when silicon levels were increased.
“Silicon improves plant resilience to environmental stress and the trial data showed that plants treated
with Sirius also accumulated more silicon in seed. The resulting increase of silicon in the seed translates to more silicon in the crop grown from that seed. This is a major breakthrough and will offer a new benefit for those using Sirius,” he adds.
In the trial, seedlings grown from wheat treated with Sirius that had higher levels of silicon, were compared to an untreated sample. Slug feeding reduced from 65 percent to 45 percent.
“We also looked at the effect of spraying the emerging crop with silicon to create a physical barrier. This reduced feeding on the untreated seed sample to 32 percent, but the seed taken from the previous crop with higher silicon levels reduced slug feeding to just 23 percent, almost a third of the damage seen in the
untreated crop,” he says.
By applying Sirius at traditional fungicide timings in the spring, growers can improve plant health and seed quality. Drilling seed from a crop treated with Sirius, and subsequently spraying it post-emergence with silicon, showed the greatest benefit to early season crop management when slugs were a threat.
“We recommend applying Sirius at a rate of half a litre per hectare, at an approximate cost of £20 per application. To benefit in the early autumn, apply soon after crop emergence at growth stage 11-13, follow up applications can be beneficial. Sirius does not alter the pH of a solution, so it is easy to tank mix, which eliminates the necessity for multiple spray passes,” he concludes.
JOHN DEERE TO HOLD CAREERS EVENT TO HELP MILITARY PERSONNEL RESETTLE
John Deere is holding a carrers event in September to help resettling military personnel take next step in career
John Deere is holding a careers event in September to help resettling military personnel take the next step in their careers.
The virtual event on 20 September at 7pm is the first major event to be held by the company where details of the landmark John Deere Military Hiring Programme in the UK and Ireland will be set out.
The initiative was launched in July and helps those leaving military service find jobs working with some of the world’s most advanced agricultural and professional groundscare machinery.
Attendees of the free virtual event will find out how they can bring their unique skill sets and experience to technician roles in dealerships, and hear from individuals who have transitioned from military service into various roles connected to the John Deere brand.
“The armed forces produces people who are highly skilled, motivated, and extremely competent, and many already have the engineering
skills needed to become qualified technicians,” says Allan Cochran, John Deere Branch Training Manager.
“With many transferable skills, those with experience of military machines will be perfectly placed for a new career working with some of the world’s most advanced agricultural and turfcare equipment.
“This virtual event is a great opportunity for exservicemen and women to find about a rewarding John Deere career that can take you anywhere in the world, working with an internationally recognised and respected brand.”
Registration is open now via this link, or by searching ‘John Deere virtual careers event’ on www.eventbrite.co.uk.
It was announced that the Military Hiring Programme was being rolled out in the UK and Ireland
Smithfield Tractors
Llanelwedd
Builth Wells, LD2 3SR
t: 01982 553221
following its huge success in the USA.
“Those who have served are experts at working under pressure and logically solving problems in order to keep a machine operational,” Allan says. “These are the skills John
Deere dealerships need to keep the wheels turning.”
Those signing up to the programme will be offered free technical training to help them apply their current skills to John Deere products and services. There are more than 70 courses on offer.
“Everyone who signs up will be assigned to an employee from the John Deere network who has served in the armed forces who will be there to support each individual during the resettlement process,” Allan says.
www.smithfieldtractors.co.uk
BAUER POLYESTER TANKERS
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MOST EFFICIENCE AND COST EFFECTIVE
CUSTOMER POWER HARROW COMBINATION OFFERS MULTIPLE OPTIONS
Kuhn Farm Machinery has announced its product line-up for Tillage Live at WH Corbett in Atherstone, Warwickshire
Customisable power harrow combination offers multiple seeding options
KUHN Farm Machinery has launched a new folding 4.5m HR 4530 RCS power harrow that can be equipped with a choice of new seeding units for different crops and full hydraulic adjustment, offering flexibility for seedbed preparation and drilling in a variety of conditions.
The new HR 4530 RCS replaces the HR 4504 DR and is the smallest model in KUHN’s range of folding power harrows. It is suited to tractors up to 300hp and features hydraulic adjustment of seeding depth and levelling bar as standard.
The central Duplex gearbox is equipped with an automatic oil cooler to prevent overheating, and a torque limiter protects the entire driveline from overloading. The gearbox also features changeable gearwheels to alter the speed of the rotors to the working conditions.
A choice of two rollers are compatible with the HR 4530 RCS – a 550mm STEELLINER and a
larger diameter 590mm MEGAPACKER – depending on the desired finish and soil type. Fast-fit DURAKUHN tines with a carbide coating are standard, with optional DURAKARB tines offering a harder wearing tungsten carbide plate.
The modular design allows the choice of two coulter bars to be fixed on the roller frame of the HR 4530 RCS. This maintains a close centre of gravity to the tractor to reduce the rear lift requirement, and a constant seeding depth can be maintained regardless of the power harrow working depth.
A new BTFR 4530 cereal coulter bar offers row spacings of 12.5cm (36 rows) or 15cm (30 rows). It features KUHN’s SEEDFLEX seeding units, with offset double discs mounted on a parallelogram linkage for precise control of the seeding depth, and 35mm spacing between the two rows allowing trash or clay soils to flow through. VISTAFLOW valves are optional on all rows to improve seed blockage monitoring and allow universal tramlining,
which establishes tramlines by shutting individual rows, even when the working widths of the drill and sprayer aren’t compatible.
Users after a compatible toolbar for maize sowing can chose the new KOSMA CSM precision seeding bar that has six rows across the 4.5m width, spaced at 75cm. This new combination is 25cm shorter than a conventional setup, which brings the centre of gravity closer to the tractor.
KUHN’s existing TF 1512 Isobus front tank can be used with the above seeding combinations as either a seed delivery unit for the BTFR 4530, or fertiliser hopper for the KOSMA CSM. As standard, the TF 1512 is a 1,500-litre tank, but a 500-litre extension can be added.
Prices start at £45,715 for the HR 4530 RCS; £29,330 for the BTFR 4530 cereal coulter bar; and £19,405 for the TF1512.
Southam Agricultural Fields Farm, Station Rd, Southam CV47 2DH t: 01926 813426
www.southamagri.co.uk
KUBOTA INTRODUCES TOPCON AUTOSTEER OFFER
Kubota (UK) Ltd’s announcement has brought with it two free upgrades through its partnership with LH Agro
Kubota introduces Topcon auto-steer offer with £1275-worth of free upgrades
Kubota (UK) Ltd’s announcement to supply Topcon auto-steer options for its M-series tractors has brought with it two free upgrades through its partnership with UK-supplier LH Agro.
Customers ordering any LH Agro-supplied Topcon auto-steering kit through their Kubota dealer can take advantage of free Headland Turns activation worth £625, along with a free 12-month RTK subscription valued at £650. This offer is available until 30 September 2023.
“Headland Turns is a great new feature that lets the operator carry out an automated headland turn without needing to physically steer the tractor,” explains Jonathan Rook, Kubota’s product manager for M-series tractors. “Along with a free 12-month RTK subscription, these two free upgrades will make it much easier for those getting on the precision farming ladder to make greater use of precision farming technology.”
There are a variety of kits available to suit the steerready M7 Premium models, and non-steer ready models in Kubota’s M-series. These include Topcon’s AGS-2
receiver, and where required, Topcon’s AES-35 motorised steering wheel to replace the tractor steering wheel. In addition, customers can choose from a range of guidance screens including the 21.3cm X25, 31cm X35, 17.8cm XD and 30.7cm XD+ terminals. Depending on the chosen kit, customers can also customise the task control options available, or choose from pre-configured bundles.
“With these Topcon autosteer options, Kubota dealers can now provide precision farming solutions for all M-series tractors from the 66hp M4-063 through to the 170hp M7-173 KVT Premium,” says Jonathan.
CONTINENTAL TO SHOWCASE NEW TECH AT AGRITECHNICA
Continental presents its products for more sustainable and efficient agriculture under “Our Smart Farming” banner
Continental presents its products for more sustainable and efficient agriculture under the banner “Our Smart Farming. For your harvest of tomorrow.”
Product highlights: A new herbicide-free Weed Control System for high precision farming; a greenhouse robotic solution; a new cleat design for raptor draper belts; a Lite version of ContiConnect – the digital tire monitoring system; ProViu 360 a surround view system and NightViu working lights.
Press conference on Monday, November 13, 2023, at the Continental booth (A19, Hall 20). Starting at 9.30am.
Continental will demonstrate new technology for agriculture at Agritechnica including an autonomous greenhouse robot, a boiling water sustainable weed control system, a 360-degree tractor camera, new harvester draper belts, tyre sensors and wide illumination LED lights for agricultural machinery.
Continental has made significant investments into the agriculture sector. The brand launched a new range of tyres in 2017 and has since delivered over 100 lines including VF, hybrid, and specialist loader tyres. Many tyres can also be fitted with ContiConnect which has been updated with a Lite version.
Tyres such as the VF TractorMaster Hybrid are fitted with a sensor inside to monitor the tyre using ContiConnect Lite
which provides temperature and pressure data to a mobile device or terminal in the machine. The bluetooth enabled Lite version is free of charge and only requires a sensor to be fitted or retrofitted to the tyre.
Despite launching new tyre technology, Continental is taking Agritechnica as a launchpad for agricultural technology that is not tyre related. Amongst the new products is a tractor mounted ‘Weed Control System’ that uses artificial intelligence (AI) and boiling water to control weeds. The system, designed and engineered by Continental Engineering Services (CES), is based on optical sensor technology, supported by automotive grade software and AI to pinpoint areas in crops that need attention.
Continental has also entered the autonomous robot sector with a greenhouse robot capable of treating plants with ultraviolet light (UVC), selective harvesting and scouting activities. In partnership with Octiva, the robot is being readied for sale in 2024 and will be capable of operating multiple implements 24/7 for greenhouse operations looking to automate crop management.
For harvesters, Continental has developed the new Raptor draper belt that provides greater protection against debris thanks to a patented cleat design called Edge Defender. Continental suggests this improves crop flow and significantly reduces the overall cost of ownership by reducing downtime.
ProViu 360, a retrofittable 360-degree camera system developed by Continental to improve overall visibility, and NightViu working lights, demonstrate further technological developments that expand on existing tyre technology to make tractor operation safer.
ProViu 360 captures images using four cameras with HDR (High Dynamic Range) and a resolution of 1.3 megapixels and combines them to produce a perfect bird's eye view of the vehicle. It also features Pedestrian Detection, Clean Camera Assistant and Transparent Chassis technology.
NightViu working lights offer 100 lumens per watt LED lights for tractors to operate more safely and efficiently in the dark. The lights come with flux options ranging from 1.500 to 4.500 lumens and light beams covering a wide variety of lighting scenarios and beam patterns, ranging from highly focused spotlight illumination to floodlighting and an extremely wide illumination field.
The new products and technologies will be available to view at Agritechnica as part of Continental’s “Our Smart Farming. For your harvest of tomorrow” press conference on Monday, November 13, 2023, at the Continental booth (A19 in Hall 20) starting at 9.30am.
WHEN THE TIME IS RIGHT TO CHANGE A TRACTOR
Landini: When the time is right to change a tractor - choices for renewing your fleet
Tractors have a rather long working life, the duration of which depends on many factors, primarily the level of maintenance and the hours the machine has been in the field. We have talked about the great value of maintenance in several articles. It is essential to take good care of your vehicle, both for better quality and safety of work and so that you do not end up changing parts or having to buy a new model much sooner than expected. That’s why Landini has created Scheduled Maintenance Programmes, designed for the well-being of the machine, the farmer and the business, with a dedicated Landini team
and guaranteed service, for a tractor that always works at high performance.
DISCOVER THE LANDINI SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE PROGRAMME
Added to this is a statistic that is extremely variable depending on the history of the company using the tractor: the hours the tractor has actually worked in the field. As an example, a modern tractor has an average life of 15,000 hours, which is supposed to be completed in 10-15 years. This has changed a lot in the last 20 years, which is why today you can see very different machines
within the same fleet, modern tractors and vehicles that are 30 to 40 years old but still operate well.
This is because for a long time the agricultural sector has been characterised by a high ageing rate and only in recent years has it caught up with other sectors by innovating technology on machines and halving their weight. The target audience has also changed, seeing fewer and fewer small companies in favour of more structured agricultural businesses, with greater demands for state-of-the-art machinery fleets.
MULTIPLE HERBICIDE ACTIVES REQUIRED TO OUTFOX RESISTANT RYEGRASS
Despite increasing concerns regarding the spread of herbicide-resistant ryegrass, effective control can still be achieved
Despite increasing concerns regarding the spread of herbicideresistant ryegrass, effective control can still be achieved where a stacked and sequenced programme of herbicides is applied accurately and in favourable conditions.
That’s according to ProCam’s Rob Adamson, who explains that success is reliant on a careful balance of cultural controls, correct herbicide choice and timing, and adequate soil moisture.
“Effective levels of ryegrass control have become harder to achieve since the first herbicide-resistant strains of Italian ryegrass were detected in the UK in 1990,” Mr Adamson explains. “Since then, growers have been facing an uphill struggle, with an increasingly diminished toolbox of effective herbicides, the efficacy of which is extremely condition dependant.
“For example, last year’s warm and dry conditions, paired with a migration back towards early drilling, meant many pre-emergence treatments ran out of steam and were ineffective against later germinating seeds. Across the country, we saw worrying levels of ryegrass
because of a lack of soil moisture which prevented herbicides from working as they should. This is a perfect storm in areas worst affected by resistant ryegrass such as Essex and South Yorkshire.”
Even in a good year ryegrass can still be tricky to control, not only because resistant strains are becoming increasingly common, but also because ryegrass produces a huge number of highly dormant seeds which germinate continuously throughout the year.
“But there is hope,” Rob explains, “with ProCam trials showing that even high populations of ryegrass with tough resistance profiles can be managed successfully in winter wheat.”
The trials, which purposely targeted the challenging ryegrass populations of Essex and South Yorkshire (to determine how various herbicide stacks perform under the worst pressure possible), confirmed that control is achievable, but also reinforced the importance of herbicide stacks and the use of a diversity of herbicide modes of action.
“Historically, flufenacet has been the core component of ryegrass programmes,
however there are increasing instances of poor efficacy,” Rob explains. “A diversity of other molecules used in mixture or sequence is therefore essential, and a diverse mixture can effectively overcome the resistance.
“The registration of Luxinum Plus (cinmethylin) last year provides a useful alternative and gives growers and agronomists a reprieve from the reliance on flufenacet,” Rob continues. “And our trials – which are also being carried out next year – clearly showed that cinmethylin is inherently the strongest molecule on ryegrass.
“However, a lot still depends on the availability of soil moisture to enable cinmethylin to be effective, and because ryegrass germinates continuously, one application of one active ingredient will not provide season-long protection. An over-reliance on cinmethylin will also expose it to the risk of resistance developing, which we must work hard to avoid.”
Growers should therefore consider a sequence of treatments, utilising both this new molecule alongside a range of other modes of action.
UNRIVALLED EXPERIENCE AND EXPERTISE IN GREEN BEDDING
With more Separators and Green Bedding systems installed UK and Worldwide, Bauer is uniquely qualified to provide advice, products and support for your Green Bedding System
■ ECONOMICAL
■ ALWAYS AVAILABLE
■ INCREASED COW COMFORT
■ CLEANER COWS
■ NO DUST
“Cows have cleaned up no end definitely as clean as cows on sand and the number of mastitis cases has dropped dramatically.”
Defra permit the use of RMS (Recycled Manure Solids) as bedding for dairy cattle. Farms using RMS must notify APHA and Red Tractor
“Having an unlimited supply of material means you can use more of it.”
Carter Diggers UK & NI
Henallt Fawr, Bronwydd Arms, Carmarthen, SA33 6BB t: 01267 223770 | www.carter diggers.co.uk
Harvey Waters Engineering
Trefula Farm, Redruth, TR16 5ET t: 07786 861474 | www.harveywaters.co.uk
Hunter Kane & Son Agricultural Sales, 31 Lagavara Rd, Ballintoy, Ballycastle, NI, BT54 6NG t: 07521 867843 | www.hunterkaneandson.com
M. Rickard Agri Services Ltd, New Park Farm, Betty Haunt Lane, Newport, IOW, PO30 4HR t: 01983 640421 | www.mrickardagri.co.uk
Marches Machinery Ltd, Farmore Mills, Shrewsbury Rd, Shropshire, SY7 9QG t: 01588 671335 | www.marchesmachinery.com
With well over 100,000 followers and growing across the key social media platforms and with links to rural policing initiatives we’re committed to alerting the rural community to ongoing crimes to help stop the criminals in their tracks.
Rural crime costs in excess of £49M per year! Join thousands of farmers, landowners and others living in rural areas to help us stamp out rural crime.
facebook.com/farmwatcher
twitter.com/FarmWatcherUK
linkedin.com/company/farmwatcheruk
#FWUKLetsWorkTogether
The UK’s No.1 Rural Crime Alert Network
TRANSPORT AND MACHINERY SAFETYIMPORTANCE OF MAINTENANCE
Transport and machinery are the biggest contributor to the high fatality rate the agriculture endures
Transport and machinery are the biggest contributor to the high fatality rate that agriculture endures. Here are some simple ways you can reduce the risk and keep you, and others, safe.
One of the easiest ways of keeping yourself safe is by ensuring all the equipment you require is properly maintained and therefore suitable for the intended tasks. This can apply to any piece of equipment you run, for instance tractors, trailers, ATVs, towed appliances, farm vehicles, handheld machines etc.
Daily and regular checks
By completing daily checks before commencing use of the machine or vehicle, you are more likely to notice any possible defects that could prevent the task being carried out safely.
In addition to this, regular maintenance checks completed by a dealership are also recommended to ensure any defects that are not highlighted on daily checks are addressed. This can ensure that small issues are repaired before they escalate and have a bigger financial and safety impact.
Maintenance. Why you should care.
Ensuring your machines and transport are well maintained will also ensure it is running efficiently and therefore likely to reduce long term costs associated with the machine, while also having the potential to increase its longevity.
A well-maintained vehicle or machine is more likely to be complaint with what is considered roadworthy. As such, if an incident should occur (that is not your fault), you are likely to be in a more favourable position if your vehicle or machine is well maintained.
Multi Industrial Doors Ltd is a family owned company founded back in 1985. We pride ourselves on providing a top quality service at an affordable price.
IAN FORMAN - NSTS MANAGER
With so many different types of application equipment used in agriculture there can sometimes be uncertainty of what needs testing, when and how often. A classic example is for potato farmers who may have a planter fitted with a nematicide applicator, a powder applicator, a liquid applicator for Amistar/Velum and a slug pellet applicator, and any combination of the above.
applicators have to be tested every year from new, for all other equipment the first test is due before the machine is 5 years old, then to re-test every 6 years.
As with the legal requirements, Red Tractor sets out the minimum requirements for timescales for testing and the decision is regularly taken to reduce the gap between tests, especially the liquid applicators on planters which are applying high value products and, like all other applications, need to go on accurately.
of the requirements. This is especially important in the amenity sector, to ensure sprayers used on golf courses, sportsgrounds and in public spaces, are all meeting the same standard as those used in agriculture and other sectors.
In the new protocols due out later this year, Red Tractor will be making it clearer what equipment needs testing annually and the timescales for all other types. Essentially, boom sprayers over 3 metres wide and granular nematicide
SPRAYERS
Equipment testing affects all users of professional pesticides and NSTS endeavor to inform everyone
NSTS provide operator check lists for a range of machines, all of which can be found on the website www.nsts.org. uk These are designed to assist professional operators in keeping their machines in full working condition during the spraying season to help reduce downtime, and also to record calibration results, which should be carried out on a regular basis.
PRINCESS ROYAL OPENS ST EWE FREE RANGE EGGS NEW PACKING CENTRE
The princess Royal has visited free-range egg producer, St Ewe Free Range Egg Producer.
Princess Royal opens St Ewe Free Range Eggs’ new packing centre
The Princess Royal has visited free-range egg producer, St. Ewe Free Range Eggs, to open its new grading and packing centre. The packing centre has allowed the company to expand its processing facilities and upgrade its production infrastructure, as well as providing significant future growth potential.
Bex Tonks, chief executive of St Ewe Free Range Eggs commented: “We are honoured to have had HRH The Princess Royal officially open our packing centre, and hope that it will
demonstrate how our British family business supports other family farms around the UK. If it wasn’t for their dedication to farming and the hard work of our whole team, St Ewe Free Range Eggs wouldn’t be where they are today.
“I speak on behalf of the whole St. Ewe family when I say that it marked a huge moment for us, as we reflect, with huge pride, on our combined achievements over the past 41 years.”
Thanks to the support of DEFRA grant funding, the purpose-built packing centre spans 50,000 sq. ft, and along with specialist machinery, has enabled
the business to continue to grow from packing one million eggs per week to between two and three million eggs per week at present; with scope for future growth. With the processing capacity of the business having increased more than five-fold, this in turn has generated more employment opportunities within the local community.
The Tonks Family diversified into poultry in 1982 and founded St Ewe Free Range Eggs in 2007 when they began packing their own free-range eggs for the supermarkets under their own brand.
COMMENT: IF YOU WANT LOWER STOCK DENSITIES, PAY FOR IT
“This months theme is nothing new. Years ago, there was competition amongst the retailers to prove ‘how green is my valley”
This month’s theme is nothing new. Years ago, there was competition amongst the retailers to prove ‘how green is my valley’; this has now changed to ‘who has the lowest stocking density?’ It is supposed to show they have higher welfare standards. If only that were true. It is in fact the stockman who demonstrates high welfare, and not the system.
One problem I see is that some producers are growing to 30kg per square metres with Ross 308s and others are using JA87. There is a big difference in cost of production with the two breeds, but because of customers’ lack of knowledge, the retailer gets away with it. The same happens in the Holland where every retailer has its own standard.
Lower stocking densities also adds costs, which the retailer seems reluctant to give back. It also takes the farm
a fantastic value for money product. If the retailer wants lower stocking density chicken they will have to pay more. We are happy to produce it.
performance back several years. My first crop grown in 1989 had a performance of 1.86kg in 42 days with an FCR 2.14:1. Today, I believe 1.86kg would be reached in 32 days with a 1.49 FCR. The customer has had the benefit of this improvement in performance in giving them
If we are changing our system widely then we must promote it. We all sell under the Red Tractor brand and they should promote it more, as the Lion Code does with eggs. TV is not as expensive as you might think. I was surprised to hear when British Chicken Marketing was going that the industry spent the same on marketing as Coca Cola. At present all I hear is that the Red Tractor want to bring in new environmental standards. Whilst I know the Wye Valley situation is important – I live seven miles from it – I do not see why their solution needs to adopted by everybody, adding yet more unnecessary costs to all producers.
BUTCHERS AND POULTRY DRESSERS EXCLUDED FROM LIST
Butchers and poultry dressers from overseas will not be able to come to work via a special visa
Butchers and poultry dressers from overseas will not be able to come to Britain to work via a special visa for workers in industries with labour shortages, the Migration Advisory Committee has concluded.
The Committee has published the outcome to its Review of the Shortage Occupation List (SOL). Butchers and poultry dressers are recommended to be excluded from the list, on the basis that employers should do more to attract local people to the roles.
The Association of Independent Meat Suppliers (AIMS) said the decision was disappointing and the reasoning made little sense.
We are concerned that within their recommendation they see the role of butchers as jobs with “poor working conditions, low pay and unsociable hours” and that they expressed concerns that “including the occupation on the SOL would simply embed these poor conditions further,” said Tony Goodger, spokesperson for AIMS.
The recommendation to not add poultry dressers to the SOL is based on a view that they are “unconvinced that employers in the occupation have done enough to overcome challenges in attracting workers from the domestic population.”
“We refute these assertions and point to the often rural location of these
businesses, many of which are based in areas of very low unemployment. Furthermore that the lack of a T-Level in food manufacturing, the country’s largest manufacturing sector possibly acts as a barrier to some when thinking about the meat industry as a career.”
AIMS recent wrote to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak asking that Asylum seekers be permitted to work in our industry and are pleased to see that MAC have recommended that, “if granted the right to work, asylum seekers should be able to work in any job.”
STEVE BIRCHALL: KEEPING IT IN THE FAMILY
Testimonial: This testimonial is supplied by P.R Starkie, Farm Manager at P.M. Ashburner Ltd
Being a small family run Poultry unit we need to have good reliable contractors to ensure our site has a good state of cleanliness and biosecurity.In order to achieve this we use another family run business, Steve Birchall Poultry Services Ltd.
As a business we have worked in relationship with Steve Birchall and his team for a long number of years and will continue to do so for many more. His team do a first class job washing and disinfecting our site. Nothing is too much trouble and they can accomodate our needs at the drop of a hat.
I can honestly say Steve and his team are excellent, reliable, thorough, tidy and hard working. They leave our site ready for action! I would recommend Steve Birchall Poultry Services without hesitation.
P.R
Starkie Farm ManagerP.M Ashburner Ltd
Testimonial from W. Bateman & Co
I would highly recommend Steve Birchall Poultry Cleaning Services, having knowing him for over 25 years and it has been an absolute pleasure to have him as my loyal customer and I look forward to many more years in business and wish Steve Birchall the continued success with his business and the good reputation he has gained over the years. We look forward to many more years in business with Steve Birchall.
All the best - All at W Bateman & Co
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Let the data talk ! DATA INTERFACE
It all starts with the OneView dashboard, which is a powerful and visually easy tool to interpret for monitoring your dairy farm! Stay connected and monitor your milking system continuously, on any device.
Accurate data are always available, customized to your needs Also, the OneView management system can connect to third party management systems. This means you have all possible information centralized into one convenient system.
As if your robot could talk !
ROBOT PERFORMANCE
Receive alerts in real time, so all stakeholders have insight to resolve critical alerts when necessary.
The analyses enables you to adapt and optimize the system to your management goals!
• Milking analyses
• Feeding analyses: to help you to implement the ideal herd feeding performance
As if your herd could talk !
HERD PERFORMANCE
All herd information translated into easy to take decision tools.
• Herd production indicators,
• Herd health indicators,
• Activity measurement,
• Herd traffic indicators,
• Herd lifetime indicators,
• Herd routines,
• Herd feeding indicators.
Run your farm the way you want !
MANAGEMENT TOOLS
Numerous management tools combined to run your farm according to your needs and goals. Set up the system based on your preferences and optimize where needed.
•Sorting engine: flexible and smart selection with almost endeless possibilities.
•Feeding: tune your feeding system the way you want. Input all your feeding rations and tables, according to the feeding management you wish to apply.
•Sensorics tools: as if milk could talk!
The sensors transfer any information you need, such as milk flow, somatic cell count, colour and conductivity.
Davison & Axup
Dairy Supplies, Swiss Cottage, Bardney Road, Wragby, Market Rasen, LN8 5QZ
As if your cow could talk !
COW PERFORMANCE
A large range of cow performance indicators help you manage your dairy farm to your preference.
• Cow production indicators;
• Cow health indicators,
• Conductivity,
• Cow lifetime indicators,
• Cow routines.
David Johnson (Lutt) Ltd, Upper Bruntingthrope Ind Est.
David Johnson (Lutt) Ltd - Upper Bruntington Ind Est, Leicester, LE17 5QZ | t: 01162 478349
Davison & Axup - Swiss Cottage, Market Rasen, LN8 5QZ | t: 01673 858567
Electro-Mech Agri Ltd, 7 Tulnagall Road, Donaghmore, Dungannon
Milkflo Dairy Systems Ltd, Trengove Farm Cot Road, Redruth
Electro-mech Agri - Tulnagall Rd, Dungannon, BT70 3LR | t: 02887 767376
BT70 3LR
Leicester, LE17 5QZ
Cornwall, TR16 4PS
Milkflo - Trengove Farm, Redruth, TR16 4PU | t: 08450 944 815
Wessex Farm - Mill Road, Somerset, TA10 9DJ | t: 01458 252566
t: 01673 858567
t: 01162 478349
t: 02827767376
www.electromech. com
t: 08450 944815 www.milkflouk.com
In the end the milk quality analysis informs you on your management performance and helps you to adjust when needed.
Bob Gerard Ltd
22 London Road, Great Glen, Leicester, LE8 9GF t: 01162592224
www.bobgerard.co.uk
DJ Leigh
Near Daventry, Northants, NN11 6DP t: 07502 661861
CM Barber Plant Hire
The Depot, Steam Mills, Cinderford, GL14 3JD t: 07774 249580
www.cmbarberplanthire.co.uk
David Taylor (Garages) Ltd
David Taylor Garages Granada Park Motors, Crickhowell, NP8 1HW t: 01873 564016 | www.davidtaylorgarages-isuzu.co.uk
Mikes Graphics 5 Wall St, Hereford, HR4 9HP t: 07855 985649
www.mikesgraphics.co.uk
Southam Agri Fields Farm, Station Rd, Southam, CV47 2DH t: 01926 813426
www.southamagri.co.uk
Steve Birchall Chorley, Lancashire, PR6 3TQ t: 07850 838172
roosterman1@btinternet.com
W Bateman & Co Garstang Rd, Barton Nr Preston, PR3 5AA t: 01772 862948
www.bateman-sellarc.co.uk
Wharfedale Tractors Unit 1 Riffa Bus. Park Harrogate Rd, Otley, LS21 2XB t: 01132 841117 Advertise
DG Buscombe, Saint Columb, TR9 6DE
t: 01637 880119 | www.dgbuscombe.co.uk
Marrs of Methlick, Schoolbrae Garage, Methlick, Ellon, AB41 7DS
t: 01651 806910 | www.marrsofmethlick.com
Smithfield Tractors, Llanelwedd, Builth Wells, Powys, Ls2 3SR
t: 01982 553221 | www.smithfieldtractors.co.uk
Trebor Jones & Son Ltd, Llanfyllin, SY22 5LE
t: 01691 648411
Wharfedale Tractors, Unit 1 Riffa Bus. Park, Harrogate Rd, Otley, LS21 2XB
t: 01132 841117
PLAY DIFFERENT
TGB Blade 520SL
* 5 Year Manufacturer Limited Warranty *
The Blade series has been sold worldwide now for over 20 years. The 520SL is the latest edition to the agricultural lineup. A combination of elements developed over a decade of hard work within the agricultural industry, the 520SL boasts a long list of key features. This workhorse ATV is ideal for any agricultural situation. Powered by the tried and tested TGB 503cc high torque engine, but now equipped with Electronic fuel injection.The Blade 520SL is T3 homologated so can be registered for road use.
A1 Tractor Parts, West View, Cumbria, CA7 3NL | t: 07873 737538
www.a1tractorparts.co.uk
CMS Exeter, Venny Bridge, Exeter, EX4 8JJ | t: 01392 467700
Fairoak Machinery, Yew Tree Garden Centre, Hatt Common, Ball Hill, Newbury, Berkshire, RG20 0NG
www.keewaymotorcycles.com
Fairoak Machinery, Hatt Common, Berks, RG20 0NG | t: 01635 254533
t: 01635 254533
www.fairoakmachinery.com
www.fairoakmachinery.co.uk
H & H Vehicle Services, Unit J2, Holmfirth, HD9 4DS | t: 01484 859322
www.hhvehicleservices.co.uk
NG Quads & Moto (Covering Devon & Cornwall), 2 New Road, Brixham, TQ5 8Lz
R.O Davies, Garthmyl, Llangernyw, Abergele, LL22 8RG
t: 01803 883555 |
www.ngmoto.com
New Forest Garden Machinery, Southampton, SO40 3ND | t: 02380 871764
t: Rhys - 07879 016798
www.nfgmltd.co.uk
www.rodavies.co.uk
Taylors Tools LTD, Primrose Hill, Herts, WD4 8HX | t: 01923 260699
www.taylorstools.co.uk
BUILT STRONG WORK HARD TO
The MULE PRO-DX offers a class-leading 453kg capacity low tipping cargo bed and 907kg towing potential.
High torque diesel power moves cargo and crew quickly with the safety assurance of the Roll-Over Protection Systems (ROPS).
THE CHOICE OF PROFESSIONALS
D. H. Wadsworth & Sons Flockton
Tel: 01924 840319
D. H. Wadsworth & Sons Malton
Tel: 01653 692244
WWW.WADSWORTHQUADS.CO.UK
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT YOUR LOCAL DEALER:
DAY & COLES AGRICULTURAL
Wellingboro ugh, NN8 6UW Tel 01933 673900
www.dayandcoles.co.uk
JIM P RICE M ACHINE RY LTD
Craven Arms SY7 9QG Tel 01588 673 746
www.jimpricemachinery.com
MARTIN PEARS ENGINEERING LTD
Totnes TQ9 7JE
Tel 01548 521 429
www.mpearsengineering.co.uk
SOUTHAM A GRI SE RVICES
➢ Powerful 993cc Diesel engine
➢ 2WD or 4WD modes
➢ Largest cargo bed in class
➢ Gas-assisted tilting cargo bed
➢ Stable, wide-body chassis
➢ 907kg towing capacity
Southam CV47 2DH Tel 01926 813 425
www.southamagri.co.uk
DJ LEIGH USED
BOMFORD HEDGE CUTTER B578 3PL MTD, 1.30 CUTTING HEAD £4,500 + VAT
DAVID BROWN 1490, 2WD 1983 A REG C/W ECON HEDGEMASTER NEEDS TLC £4,775 + VAT
TIPPING TRAILER 3-4 TONS £950.00 + VAT
BARTON MUCK FORK, GOOD CONDITION, £350.00 + VAT
WALK BEHIND ROLLER, £675.00 +VAT
McCONNEL FLAIL HEAD, £325.00 + VAT
DAVID BROWN 1490 1983, 2WD TRACTOR NEEDS TLC £POA
TEAGLE TOMAHAWK STRAW CHOPPER 2008, (SPARES) 3 POINT LINKAGE, GOOD CONDITION £POA
TEAGLE 510 PASTURE TOPPER IN GOOD WORKING ORDER £1250.00 +VAT
1982 DAVUD BRIWN 1490 2WD TRACTOR THREE POINT LINKER ON 14 X 34 REAR 7.50-16 FRONT, NEEDS TLC £3,375 ++ VAT
1968BDAVID BROWN 990 FRONT LOADER BUCKET ROLL BAR £2,535.00 + VAT
1999 T REG LDV HORSEBOX LORRY £3,500 COMPLETE, OR JUST BOX OFF £1,750 + VAT – HAS NO TEST
KUBOTA KH51 MINI DIGGER ON STEEL TRACKS OFFERS AROUND £3,275.00 + VAT
BARTON MUCK FORK V.G.C. TRIP MODEL £275.00 + VAT
3 TON TIPPER TRAILER (NEEDS REBUILD) £525.00
MF 50B DITCHING BUCKET £325.00 + VAT
MF FRONT WEIGHTS £325.00 + VAT
GEAR BOX & PUMP TO FIT ECON UNDER TANK £475.00 + VAT
IH FRONT WEIGHTS FOUR ONLY £225.00 VAT
SNOW PLOUGHS GRAY FRONT OR BACK £535.00 + VAT
SNOW PLOUGH BOUNCE FRONT ONLY £875.00 + VAT
LINER SAW BENCH WITH ENGINE ON SMALL WHEELS £135.00 + VAT
DOWDESWELL DP7 4 FUR REV PLOUGH £1,100.00 + VAT
DOWDESWELL DP7D 4 FUR PLOUGH £1,950 + VAT
PARMITER POST RAMMER £1,325.00 + VAT
MF CHISEL PLOUGH 8FT WIDE 3 TINES £765.00 + VAT
BOMFORD CHISEL PLOUGH 8FT WIDE 9 TINES £790.00 + VAT
BAMFORD 4 FUR PLOUGH DISC £425.00 + VAT
IFOR WILLIAMS 2 TON TRAILER WITH SIDES £1,750.00 + VAT
1988 KRAMER 312SE LOADING SHOVEL £4,450.00 + VAT
BOBCAT 313 SKID STEER LOADER NEEDS TLC £POA
McCONNEL HEDGE TRIMMER 1.2M £655.00 + VAT
LELY 3.5 TO 4M POWER HARROW FROM £895.00 TO £1,750.00 + VAT
MACHINERY
MF 30 DRILL PIPES SHORT AND LONG £POA
WELD ON POINTS FOR LELY POWER HARROW, TOTAL 72 £POA
PUMPS TO FIT ECON HM1 & HM2 ECON HEADS £POA
LOWER LINKAGE HOOK TO FIT MF 2640/2680/2720 £POA
PLOUGH PART FOR DOWDESWELL AND RANSOMES £POA
MUIR HILL 4000 2WD LOADING SHOVEL SPARES OR REPAIRS £625.00 + VAT
SANDERSON 50 2WD FORKLIFT NEEDS ENGINE REBUILD £1,550 + VAT
SHELBOURNE REYNOLDS RAPE MACHINE TYPE 302/302-13 SPARE OR REPAIR £1,475.00 + VAT
DUAL STOCKS AND BETTERSON 18.4X38 £POA
ECON HM1 & HM2 HEDGE TRIMMER GOT BRACKET £1.050 TO £1,650 + VAT
ECON HM1 BOOM WITH RAMS £465.00 + VAT
MF DRAW BAR TO FIT 135 TO 165 TRACTOR £175.00 + VAT
WHEELS AND TYRES FROM 14,0-16 10 PLY £325.00 + VAT
RIMS AND TYRES TO FIT MF OR FORD ETC., SIZE 12.5/80=18 10 PLY £325.00 + VAT THE PAIR PLUS 11.00 = 16 10 PLY
MUCK FORK WITH GRAB TO FIT 4FT BOBCAT £425.00 + VAT
BOMFORD MODEL 90, 18461, 1957 K99 HEDGE TRIMMER 3 POINT LINKAGE CABLE CONTROL 1.3M HEAD £4,250 + VAT
SPEARHEAD MK6 HEDGE TRIMMER £POA
BOMFORD HYDRO MOWER HEDGE CUTTER £625.00 + VAT
FERGUSON CULTIVATOR FOR GREY FERG £195.00 + VAT
FERGUSON EARTH SCOOP ON THREE POINT LINK £325.00 + VAT
NUFFIELD OR LEYLAND SMALL WHEELS FOR FRONT £135.00 + VAT
TANCO BALE GRAB UP AND OVER MODEL £545.00 + VAT
PERKINS DIESEL 4CLD ENGINE TO FIT LANDROVER ETC., £345.00 + VAT
POWER PACK TO RUN WRAPPER ETC., NEEDS TLC £425.00 + VAT
DOWDESWELL SKIMS TO FIT DP1 PLOUGH £210.00 = VAT
NEXEN ROADIAN AT P245/70 R17 TO FIT TOYOTA OR ISUZU ETC., 6 STUDS £425.00 + VAT
TOP TO FIT TOYOTA PICK UP SINGLE CAB £135.00 + VAT
*PLEASE NOTE: ALL PRICES ARE PLUS VAT
FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CALL DAVID ON 07502 661861
SUZUKI ANNOUNCES NEW TRADE-IN OFFER
Suzuki GB has recently announced a fantastic new trade-in offer on its range of KingQuad ATV’s
Suzuki GB has recently announced a fantastic new trade-in offer on its range of KingQuad ATVs which will enable customers to get 10% off the RRP of a new Suzuki by trading in any brand of quad bike in part exchange.
Suzuki’s range currently comprises of three versatile models; the KingQuad 500 and 500XP as well as the KingQuad 750XP (XP denotes power steering). These robust utility ATVs are the culmination of years of refinement and their high levels of technical specification and ease of handling give riders confidence on any terrain, making them suitable for several applications including hill and lowland farming, estate management and use on equestrian properties.
Suzuki’s position as one of the leading suppliers of ATVs to the UK agricultural and landmanagement markets has been further strengthened by a new security
package that includes the CESAR forensic marking system from Datatag and a Thatcham accredited tracking and immobiliser system from Datatool.
The Suzuki trademark is recognised by people throughout the world as a brand whose products offer quality, innovation, reliability and originality. Suzuki stands behind this global symbol with a determination to maintain this confidence in the future, never ceasing in its efforts to develop ‘valuepacked products’ with a focus on the customer.
And this certainly rings true for Suzuki’s ATV division. Back in 1983 the QuadRunner 125 was the ATV that started an industry! It was the first ever production 4-wheel ATV and became a topseller. This ATV boasted a friendly design that was easy to use and an outstanding costperformance ratio. It was to be the catalyst that started a future of 4-wheel ATV technology.
Today, Suzuki continues to bring class-leading technology to the market as well as customer-focussed value propositions such as this trade-in offer.
Mark Beeley, Head of Marine & ATV for Suzuki GB said, “We are proud to be able to work in partnership with our national network of expert Dealers to offer customers this trade-in option. We currently have good stock availability on all models ready to satisfy the anticipated uplift in demand during this key buying period for farmers and land owners.”
The new trade-in offer is available at participating Dealers only until the end of September.
ATVTRAC - PROVEN IN THE FIGHT AGAINST RURAL CRIME
As farmers and landowners continue to fight the threat of rural crime, ATVTrac offers a line of defence
As farmers and landowners continue to fight the threat of rural crime, ATVTrac offers a proven and effective line of defence.
With multi-tier technology, ATVTrac offers real-time location information, using GPS, GPRS, GSM and RF technology to not only pinpoint vehicle location, but to inform owners of unauthorised movement via text, email and phone call.
With a 98% recovery rate and an
average recovery time of three hours, ATVTrac’s results speak for themselves, with additional features too.
ATVTrac’s extra features are designed to make life easier and safer, with live tracking and machine over, assisting with safety and duty of care, covering lone worker polices in the process.
On top of great safety features, ATVTrac offers other useful functions such as live battery information, with adjustable low-
Revolutionising ATV & Asset Security
level notifications and an all-new service notification facility, helping to keep track of oil changes and routine maintenance.
And if the unthinkable happens, the true benefit of ATVTrac’s service becomes apparent, thanks to the 24hr manned call centre, which tracks the device, directly liaising with police or Securitas for recovery, to recover the asset.
Preferential insurance rates available too. Find out more at www.atvtrac.co.uk
SUBARU OUTBACK.
BUILT FOR ADVENTURE.
With AWD off-road capability, proven reliability and advanced safety features, the all-new Subaru Outback is the next generation of adventure.
FROM £36,990
438 Tester
438 Tester, 438 Tester, 438 Tester 438 Tester
Tel: 438 Tester
Search Subaru
Award-winning
• 2.5i Boxer Engine Lineartronic
• Permanent Symmetrical
• EyeSight Safety Package
• Driver Monitoring System
• X-MODE with Hill Descent
• Apple CarPlay™ & Android
• 2,000kg Towing Capacity
SUBARU OUTBACK fuel economy and CO2 results (WLTP): Combined 33.0mpg, CO2 emissions 193g/km. MPG figures are official EU test figures number of factors including accessories fitted (post-registration), variations in weather, driving styles & vehicle load. *3 services from £299.00 (incl. VAT) service intervals - either 12,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes sooner. All services must be completed by an authorised Subaru Retailer. The only. Does not cover any non-service related parts or repairs or general wear and tear. Servicing is transferable with the vehicle. Offers may be varied
Vehicle shown is an Outback 2.5i Limited Lineartronic, OTR price of £37,440.00. Model shown price includes optional special paint finish at £595.00.
Dales Subaru, Barnoldswick, Lancashire, BB18 6TG
t: 01282 797555
www.dales-subaru.co.uk
Perkins Garage, Braintree, CM77 6SA
t: 01376 550899
www.perkinsgarages.co.uk
Jeffries of Bacton, Stowmarket, IP14 4HP
t: 01449 781131
www.jeffriesofbacton.co.uk
3 YEARS SERVICING FOR £299*
Award-winning features. Fitted as standard.
Lineartronic
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
Package System
Descent Control
Android Auto™ Capacity (braked)
• 213mm Ground Clearance
• 11.6" Tablet-like Infotainment System
• Heated Front and Rear Seats
• Dual-Zone Automatic Air Con
• Adaptive Driving Beam
• LED Headlights
• Reversing Camera
figures for comparative purposes & may not reflect real driving results. Fuel consumption achieved in real life conditions & CO2 produced depends on a VAT) offer applicable when you purchase a brand-new Subaru Forester e-BOXER, XV e-BOXER or Outback. All services should be taken at the relevant The customer’s failure to redeem the services within the designated mileage or time will void the manufacturer’s warranty. Available to retail customer varied or withdrawn at any time. Offer ends 30.06.23.
£595.00.