Farming Scotland Magazine (January - February edition 2025)

Proud to support Scottish farming, and agriculture throughout the five nations

Tractors

Slurry Management

Dairy Tech 2025

The Royal Northern Spring Show

Scottish Speciality Food Show Cultivations

Agricultural Tyres

Trailers

Rakes & Tedders

In Focus 1

New approach for ewe health from Nettex

In Focus 2

The LGL Agri Story

Topic 1

Protect your water supplies with Whisper Pumps

Topic 2

Tackling Virtual Fencing

Articles

Robots on a Cornish farm

SEPA end of year success

A role for Hydrogen in farming

Satelllite data for farmers

Cattle restoring bracken

Travel Scotland

St Andrews

Scottish Country Life With Jake Swindells plus

New Book Serialisation • Northern Isles

Farmhouse Kitchen • Beatha an Eilean Ffermio Cymru • Women in Agriculture including our regular news areas and columns

Tuathanachas Alba

editor's bit

Happy new year to you all…except?

Except for the UK Government who seem hell bent on taking money away from pensioners, farmers, small businesses, the care industry and retired women to fill the black hole that they apparently didn’t know about?

(Despite being told about it often enough in the Scottish Parliament up here when they claimed that austerity was over).

There is a saying – “Don’t criticise farmers with your mouth full”, all rather bad manners don’t ya know!

Well, from what I can see this Labour UK Government is not being critical of farming, it is attacking it with all the stupidity of someone who thinks milk comes from the shops and not cows!

Wow, how to ‘balls it up’ so quickly, it is almost an art-form!

Supported by the usual right wing press too, it is amazing to read the public comments about how farmers ‘get away’ with something – no mention of the massive working hours in all kinds of weather – no mention of the families who for generations have worked like slaves on their land to keep their heads above the water, despite lower quality and cheaper imports.

Like the Tories before them, Labour think that it’s all about money – but what about quality, morality and lifestyle?

How about progressive taxation on the most-wealthy including the Royal family?

They can afford a damn sight more than pensioners!

Slàinte, Athole.

arable International Barley Study

Offers Good News for

Scottish Growers

The James Hutton Institute has played a crucial role in a major international study to create the most comprehensive DNAbased genetic map of barley to date.

Recently published in one of the world’s foremost scientific journals, Nature, the research has provided unprecedented insights into the crop's evolution and adaptation, such as disease resistance, plant architecture and starch mobilisation.

The research has provided unprecedented insights into the crop's evolution and adaptation, such as disease resistance, plant architecture and starch mobilisation.

Findings will have significant implications for Scottish agriculture, where barley is the major crop and underpins the iconic malt whisky industry. It provides a template for developing barley varieties better suited to Scottish growing conditions, enhancing knowledge to support sustainable farming practices.

Contributions from scientists at the International Barley Hub (IBH) at the James Hutton Institute were integral to the project, which involved sequencing 76 different wild and cultivated barley genomes.

The IBH is part of the newly opened Crop Innovation Centre, funded as part of a £62m investment through the Tay Cities Region Deal (TCRD) by the UK and Scottish Governments.

Led by Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK), the study focused on the pan-genome of barley, which represents the complete set of genomic

sequences, that can be found within a species.

Dr. Micha Bayer, a senior scientist at the James Hutton Institute, said: "This pangenome provides a powerful new tool for understanding barley's species-wide genetic diversity at unprecedented resolution. It will accelerate our ability to develop more resilient and productive barley varieties."

Get a fix on pulse crop nutrition

New developments in biologicals could give pulse crops an all-important nutrient boost to achieve better establishment and more consistent yields. Findings of the latest Syngenta research trials will be presented at the

Pulse Potential Roadshow 2025, in conjunction with PGRO.

Under the theme of Enhanced strategies for productivity and yield, the events will take place at South Cave near Hull, on Humberside, on Monday

27th January and at Kingsgate Conference Centre, Peterborough on Tuesday 28th January.

Event hot topics, selected from feedback from growers at last year’s roadshow, will include the latest varietal information, agronomy updates and market insights from PGRO - along with new developments and best practice in crop protection for vining and combining peas and field beans with Syngenta Technical Manager, Simon Jackson.

“We do have exciting conventional chemistry in the R&D pipeline and working through the legislative framework. However, developments in biologicals are already offering an important bridge in crop agronomy and nutrition strategies,” he advises.

Simon urges that pulse growers and agronomists will need to take all the best elements of existing cultural controls,

including varietal selection, rotation and nutrition, and then add in new proven products and technologies that will deliver more consistent yields and crop quality.

New biostimulant technologies offer potential to enhance pulse root crop growth right from the start and through the growing season, he advocates. Already well proven in other crops, including cereals, maize and potatoes, carefully selected bacteria can contribute to both the crops’ phosphate and nitrogen needs.

Nuello iN seed treatment includes two unique endophyte bacteria that fix atmospheric nitrogen into a form readily useable by the growing plant. One of these bacteria, Curtobacterium Salicaceae, is also capable of mobilising soil insoluble phosphate to be available for seedling rooting and establishment.

Latest trials data reinforces folpet benefits in cereal disease control

Including the multi-site fungicide Arizona (500g/l folpet) in combination with single site active ingredients provides an uplift in wheat and barley yields and pays for itself by a factor of four to one according to the latest field trials.

Data collated over the last six seasons shows that the inclusion of Arizona (500g/l folpet) as a partner product to other single site fungicides can help to improve winter wheat yields by an average of 0.3t/ha.

This yield benefit is achieved by enabling crops to get ahead and stay ahead of disease infections.

“Putting Arizona to work alongside single site fungicides at key stages in the growing cycle helps crops to retain green leaf area for longer which in turn enables plants to capture more sunlight and produce a better yield,” explains Andy Bailey, ADAMA’s fungicides technical specialist.

“At an ex-farm wheat price of £200/tonne, a yield uplift of 0.3t/ha

is equivalent to an additional £60 of income per hectare,” he adds. “That equates to a return of up to £4 for every £1 spent on folpet.”

Mr Bailey also points out that the addition of folpet plays a crucial role in disease resistance management. “It is important to remember that the erosion of the efficacy of the current arsenal of single site fungicides means growers can no longer rely on the curative activity of these actives as a get out of jail free card once

infections have taken hold,” he explains.

“Instead, it is vital to get ahead of diseases by applying early season protection and to stay ahead by making subsequent treatments as the crop develops and each ensuing leaf emerges. The addition of Arizona not only boosts protection at these key stages, but also protects single site active ingredients by slowing the rate at which disease resistance develops.”

Maize trials show importance of drilling date in variety decisions

The latest season on record at the Hutchinsons northern maize trials has reinforced the importance of tailoring variety choice to planned drilling date next spring.

The trials, hosted by the Fisher family at Smalmstown Farm near Carlisle, featured 30 new and established varieties in 2024, some grown in the open and others under film, providing a unique comparison of the agronomic traits and yield

potential of each one in the challenging growing conditions of north western England.

Poor weather characterised much of the 2024 season, which saw the latest-ever drilling of maize trials on 8 May, and also the latest harvest in mid-October, according to Hutchinsons agronomist, Jim Clark.

“Generally, that reflects what we saw in the field this season too, and in such a challenging year, anything that helped crops

establish quickly really stood out in terms of the results.”

Variety differences shine through

Differences in varietal traits, notably speed of establishment and maturity, were particularly evident this year, Mr Clark says.

“In many cases, there was a 10-week drilling window for maize from April to the first week of June, which really proved that growers have to pick the best varieties for when they want to drill. There are some good varieties available, we just have to fine-tune choices more.”

He acknowledges that can be difficult given the vagaries of UK weather, but where growers are likely to drill late, it is worth selecting varieties better suited to that timing, and vice versa.

“Growers have often tried to push varieties to the limit of what they can do, but maybe this year was a wake-up call to be a bit more realistic, in the North at least.”

Plan ahead to get the most from soil sampling

Soil sampling is an essential tool in understanding the nutrient availability of soils but unless the results are interpreted correctly it could be a wasted exercise.

That is according to Simon Francis, Technical and Services Manager for leading agronomy firm, ProCam, who explains that not only is soil sampling required for farm assurance compliance purposes and to meet the statutory requirements of an increasing number of SFI schemes, but it is also time well invested in ensuring crops can perform to their full potential.

However, unless soils are sampled and tested in a timely and accurate manner, and the results interpreted appropriately by an experienced agronomist, it

is unlikely the investment in soil sampling will generate a viable return.

“Sampling prior to sowing any crop is key, as it provides an essential opportunity for growers to assess the nutrient status of soils and to make plans to redress any identified imbalances or deficiencies,” Simon explains.

Simon recommends each field should be tested at least every 4-5 years. “Generally, there’s no need to sample any more frequently unless there’s a specific reason such as a change of cropping or land use.

“In extreme cases, for example where continuous high rainfall or an extended period of waterlogging has caused nutrient stores to be depleted due to leaching, increasing the frequency of testing could prove useful. Another example could be where a lack of organic matter prevents nutrients from being retained, thus causing leaching losses to be exacerbated.”

Arable farming under pressure as cost-price squeeze threatens Scottish growers

Scotland’s arable farming sector faces ongoing financial challenges, with the combined pressures of low crop prices, rising costs, and competition from imported wheat continuing to strain growers’ profitability.

Despite favourable autumn weather conditions leading to excellent establishment for winter barley, winter wheat, and oilseed rape (OSR) crops, the outlook for 2025 remains uncertain.

NFU Scotland has met with the Maltsters Association of Great Britain (MAGB) and the Scotch Whisky Association

(SWA) in recent weeks, where it underlined the need for more robust pricing and contracts for premium crops like malting barley. Discussions with distillers and the SWA are ongoing, with calls for fairer pricing structures that reward Scottish farmers for high-quality, sustainable production.

NFU Scotland’s Combinable Crops Chair, Jack Stevenson said: “Unsatisfactory crop prices and the ever-increasing cost of inputs are squeezing Scotland’s arable sector harder than ever.

“Global wheat prices remain subdued, and the anticipated

Seasonal cheer for whisky and beer with latest malting barley variety promotions

News that two Syngenta malting barley varieties have been promoted on the latest Malting Barley Committee

(MBC) approved list of varieties for harvest 2025 is great news for growers’ choices, says Kathryn Hamlen, seeds

portfolio marketing manager for Syngenta.

“The MBC approved list is a key source of information

increase in demand for malting barley has yet to materialise. Instead, growers report prices for 2024 crop well below expectations compared to the 2023 harvest. That has left Scottish growers frustrated, and looking to 2025 for muchneeded optimism.”

The economics of growing malting barley were a central focus at the recent MAGB event in London, addressed by Vice President Andrew Connon, who said that without a proper price premium, the risk-reward equation does not make sense for farmers.

for malting barley growers,” says Ms Hamlen. “So we are delighted that our spring barley variety, SY Tennyson, has been promoted from Provisional

approval 2 to Full approval for brewing use on the latest MBC list, announced in November.

“This latest promotion complements the existing Full

approval of SY Tennyson for malt distilling use on the MBC list – underlining its potential as a dual-purpose variety.

“Similarly, we are delighted

that our winter barley variety, SY Vessel, has been promoted to Special Use Full approval for malt distilling use on the new MBC list.

Tong announces next-level box handling automation in strategic partnership with VHM

Tong Engineering, leading UK vegetable handling solutions manufacturer, is pleased to announce a new strategic partnership with VHM Machinery, Netherlands manufacturer of highperformance box and big bag handling systems.

The new partnership will see Tong offering VHM's forwardthinking box handling solutions across the UK and comes as an exciting step in Tong’s continuous focus on bringing the latest technologies to the vegetable handling industry, partnering with best-in-class manufacturers to supply fully-integrated solutions from field to pack.

“We are very proud to welcome VHM into our network of partnerships,” says Charlie Rich, Business Development Director at Tong. “By integrating their fully-automated box and bag handling technology, we are strengthening our proven filling and tipping range, enabling us to achieve unmatched solutions in terms of design, technology, throughput and labour-efficiency. So, whether our customers are looking for standalone box filling equipment or a complete turnkey solution, we can deliver the most advanced systems on the market.”

VHM’s sophisticated equipment takes box and bag handling and automation to the next level. From a flexible feed and discharge of boxes to and from the production process, to completely automatic stacking and destacking of boxes at either end of the handling process, VHM equipment is designed to

bring continuous, high capacity box handling solutions that dramatically reduce or even remove the need for forklifts. The company’s innovative systems ensure the right boxes are in the right place at impressive throughputs.

“With a continued focus amongst vegetable producers to reduce costs and labour requirements, Tong is dedicated to designing progressive handling facilities that significantly reduce the reliance on the workforce through automation,”

says Charlie. “VHM’s focus on achieving more output with less people, aligns perfectly with our vision, making them the ideal partner to work with in making our customer’s handling processes safer, smarter and faster, yet more relaxed.”

Look for consistent performance with spring barley, expert suggests

Farmers looking to grow spring malting barley in 2025 should look at varieties that have produced consistent yield performance over multiple years as a guide to help manage risk, a technical crop expert is suggesting.

This should include performance during difficult growing seasons, such as 2024, he says, and is in addition to the variety having clear end market demand.

“Spring barley is a crop that can be very sensitive to its growing environment,” says Robert Jackson, Syngenta seeds technical expert for malting barley. “So a variety with a track record of good performance across different seasons is useful. The 2024 season provided a notably tough test.

“Similarly, you need to be able to sell what you’ve grown. So good end market demand for the variety from maltsters is crucial.

“There are numerous spring malting barley varieties to choose from, but certainly one with a strong track record is Laureate. First added to the AHDB Recommended List (RL) in 2016, it has become the most purchased spring malting barley variety –accounting for more than 60% of spring barley purchased for malting from the 2023 crop, the most recent year of available data.

“Moreover, despite the challenging season, the average treated yield figure for Laureate in AHDB RL trials in 2024 was higher than its five-year average.

“The same pattern was also seen with its untreated yields.

We believe this was down to its good disease resistance profile in a season that saw plenty of wet weather disease pressure.

“In addition, however, Laureate also seems to have withstood some of the drilling delays that affected farms during the wet 2024 season,” he adds.

As well as demand among UK buyers, Mr Jackson says the appeal of Laureate has also expanded into Europe.

Haith and MH Poskitt celebrate 65 years of working together

Two of the most successful companies in food production are this month celebrating 65 years of working together.

Haith Group, which manufactures vegetable handling equipment, first worked for MH Poskitt in 1959 when Geoff Haith provided repair services to Mark Poskitt.

At the time, Poskitts was growing around 1,000 tonnes of carrots annually. Today, by working with growers, that volume has reached 70,000 tonnes per year. Along with carrots, the company also grows parsnips and potatoes, all of which are processed on

the family farm in Kellington, Yorkshire, and supplied to leading supermarkets and food service companies.

When Mr Haith began developing vegetable handling machinery rather than just repairing it, Mark Poskitt was one of his first customers, purchasing a dry cleaner in 1970.

Several machine purchases followed, and most recently, Poskitts, now managed by Guy Poskitt, replaced two 25-year-old Haith washers with one of the company’s latest state-of-the-art barrel washers.

The Haith barrel washer is a robust, reliable and efficient machine with a rotating barrel that is semi-submerged in water. This feature causes the vegetables to gently rub against each other and the barrel, cleaning the surface of the crop. The barrel is fully pintle lined inside to maximise washing performance.

A discharge elevator removes the crop from the water, which can be set at a chosen outfeed height, with a freshwater spray bar giving the product a final rinse before further processing.

“We have enjoyed a longstanding relationship with Haith,” says Guy. “I remember Mr Haith visiting us. Sometimes he would arrive at 10pm and work into the early hours to get the job done. My father said he was only the person he knew who could work 25 hours a day! I think that work ethic and commitment are present at Haith today, and we’re very happy with our new washer and the surrounding gantries that they have installed.

RSABI Urges Farming Community to Apply for £400 Heating Grant arable

With many farming and crofting families worrying about the cost of heating their homes this winter, RSABI is reminding the agricultural community about its Help for Heating grants which have increased to £400 this year.

important to make sure that you and your home is kept warm,” said Chris McVey, Welfare Manager, RSABI.

“The new washer replaces two older Haith washers that were installed 25 years ago. I think they probably handled over one million tonnes of vegetables, so we certainly got value for money out of them. The new washer is twice as efficient and will reduce our water and electricity usage without compromising wash quality, which is very significant in this day and age.”

As well as the carrot washer, MH Poskitt also operates a Haith line for washing parsnips on the same site. In addition to washing, Poskitts also packs and distributes its fresh and prepared produce at Kellington, creating one of the company’s points of difference.

Haith’s managing director, Duane Hill, is proud of the company’s relationship with MH Poskitt. “We want to establish long-term relationships with our customers and help them become successful. We have achieved this with MH Poskitt and are delighted to be marking 65 years of working with them, their packhouse is extremely busy and we are pleased to have provided them with reliable and efficient machinery.”

The charity, which provides emotional, practical and financial support to those working in the agriculture industry in Scotland, is encouraging people working in, or retired from, agriculture who are struggling with costs to contact them to request the grant via 0808 1234 555. An online assessment tool is available via RSABI’s website www.rsabi.org.uk.

“Rural properties can often be older and more challenging to heat and with changes to the Winter Fuel Payment alongside rising energy costs and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, many are facing mounting financial pressure. As the temperature drops, it’s

“Our Help for Heating grants are simple and quick to apply for, with funding starting at £400 it is available to those spending more than 10% of their household income on heating costs and finding it difficult to afford essentials like food and clothing.” said Mr McVey.

RSABI is urging people who are struggling to pay to heat their homes to get in touch to find out more about this initiative and the other

support services on offer.

RSABI also offers ongoing financial support through an Annual Beneficiary scheme, where anyone in need who meets the support criteria can receive regular payments to help top-up their income.

Please visit the RSABI website www.rsabi.org.uk to find out more or, to chat to a case officer, call our freephone Helpline on 0808 1234 555 which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and calls won’t show up on phone bills. All enquiries are completely confidential.

RSABI offers free practical, financial, and emotional support including counselling services, delivered quickly after receiving the initial enquiry. Its free confidential support service is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year, by calling 0808 1234 555 (calls won’t show up on phone bills) or through a confidential webchat service, available on RSABI’s website www.rsabi.org.uk.

FLAVOUR OF SCOTLAND

Young Chef Competition celebrates the Versatility of Scotch Lamb at Archerfield

The Lamb for St Andrews Young Chef Competition took place back in November at Archerfield, bringing together some of the most promising young chefs within the Caledonian Heritage Group to showcase their talents. The event was run by the Scotch Beef Club, an initiative managed by Quality Meat Scotland (QMS). Scotch Beef Club members are proud to serve Scotch Beef, Scotch Lamb and Specially Selected Pork which is fully traceable and quality assured, coming from trusted Scottish farms.

The focus of the competition was on creating dishes using a Scotch Lamb six-bone rack provided by QMS, with contestants demonstrating their creativity and skill. Each dish was presented with a full recipe and detailed costings, while a range of vegetables was available to enhance their creations.

The esteemed judging panel included Derek Johnstone and Joe Queen of Archerfield and Gordon Newlands from QMS. After careful deliberation, the judges named Andrew Smail from Kelso as the champion. The winning recipe may now be featured by QMS in future promotional materials, and Andrew will also gain an exclusive industry placement opportunity organised by QMS.

Gordon Newlands, Brands Development Manager at QMS said: “We are incredibly proud of all the finalists for their hard work and impressive skill. The versatility of Scotch Lamb was truly on display throughout the competition, and each dish showed a unique interpretation of its potential. Congratulations to Andrew on this outstanding achievement—this competition highlights the immense talent within the industry, and we’re excited to see these chefs continue to flourish.”

All finalists were recognised for their hard work and dedication with a special goody bag courtesy of QMS. The finalists included Grace Darrie, Finn Vaughan Watson, Anthony Birrell, and Logan Morris.

Joe Queen, Executive Chef of Archerfield commented: “The research and flair the young chefs produced was excellent, using a superb cut of Scotch lamb helped embrace them to strive forward

and put their passion into the creativity of some fine cooking – and, yes, it was a treat to taste!

“Let see more of this in helping develop and nurture our younger generation getting to understand the importance of working with top quality products from our Scottish farms to support the next range of quality chefs coming through.”

This memorable event highlighted Scotland’s premium

quality produce and the rising stars of the culinary world, leaving a lasting impact on all who attended.

Are you a restaurant establishment committed to purchasing Scotch Beef UK GI, Scotch Lamb UK GI, or Specially Selected Pork? Join the community that champions Scotland’s world-class, sustainably produced red meat, proudly displaying commitment to quality and provenance on your menu.

Quality Meat Scotland sparks innovation in Scotland’s Butchery Sector to support consumer convenience

Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) is driving innovation and skill development in Scotland’s butchery sector, showcasing how careers in butchery can be dynamic and consumer-focused. Scotland’s apprentice butchers are benefiting from a focus on innovation through the Scotch Butchers Club, run by Quality Meat Scotland. The recent Value

Added Event at Marshalls Farm Shop in Kintore provided a unique, hands-on experience for butcher apprentices in the North East. The event, which encouraged apprentices to work with premium red meat products such as Scotch Beef, Scotch Lamb, and Specially Selected Pork, highlighted the importance of value-added products for the future of butchery. A value-added butchery product is a raw cut of meat enhanced with additional qualities that increase its value, such as convenience and improved palatability. During the event, the apprentices created a range of products, including stir-fries, truffles, and marinated meats. They experimented with glazes, seasonings, and learned how to

Young chefs - (L-R) Gordon Newlands, Scotch Beef Club; Derek Johnston, Archerfield; Finn Vaughan Watson; Grace Darrie; Andrew Smail; Anthony Birrell; Logan Morris; Joe Queen, Archerfield

prepare nutritious, flavourful meals that cater to modern consumer tastes.

Raps UK, known for offering innovative ingredient solutions for all sectors of the food industry and retail butchery, helped facilitate the event by demonstrating how flavours and seasonings can be incorporated into value-added products.

Nine butchers had the opportunity to create innovative products and explore new ways to enhance their offerings under the guidance of experienced butchers and expertise of Raps UK. The use of creative seasoning and flavours showcased how value-added products can be tailored to meet diverse consumer tastes.

Gordon Newlands, Brands Development Manager at QMS said: “The importance of valueadded products is clear across the industry, as consumers increasingly look for quick, nutritious meal solutions. With younger generations turning to platforms like TikTok and social media for recipe inspiration, butcher shops have the opportunity to meet these new demands by offering convenient, high-quality options.

“By creating ready-to-cook products with marinades, glazes, and seasonings—such as teriyaki stir-fries or barbecue-marinated cuts—butchers are meeting the growing demand for convenient, flavourful meal solutions while preserving the heritage of traditional craft butchery”

The event was also recognised for its Continuous Professional Development (CPD) opportunities, ensuring that participants not only gained hands-on skills but also furthered their education in the field.

Auctioneer Colin Slessor from the ANM Group also attended the event, providing

valuable insight into his role as an auctioneer and the importance of understanding the full supply chain. Colin shared his experiences from working at livestock markets and emphasised how every step of the supply chain—from farm to auction to butcher—contributes to the success of the Scottish red meat industry.

Gordon Newlands added: “QMS continues to support Scotland’s butchers through initiatives like this, which are aimed at promoting the next generation of skilled professionals who can drive the industry forward through innovation and creativity.

“We would like to extend a huge thank you to Marshalls Farm Shop for kindly hosting us and providing such excellent facilities for our apprentices to develop their skills.”

Anna Forbes, a butcher apprentice at H M Sheridan in Banchory, who attended the event, shared: “I had a fantastic time at Marshalls Farm Shop during the Value Added Event. These evenings are crucial for young apprentices like us, as they allow us to come together, support each other, and share our ideas and experiences. I left the event with new insights and inspiration for innovative products to use in our shops.”

For more information about careers in butchery, visit the Butchery Careers programme website at https://butcherycareers. co.uk/.

For additional details regarding Scotch Butchers Club events, membership, and upcoming innovation and skills development events across Scotland in January and February next year, please contact Gordon Newlands at gnewlands@qmscotland.co.uk.

Scotland The Brand

Landrace Crowd Breeding Project –Promiscuous Pollination for Crop Resilience

By Ruth Watson

There can be few growers who are not hoping this coming spring and summer season is kinder than the last. The brutally wet then cold conditions hammered crop yields and quality. The importance of seed resilience and sovereignty is, increasingly, being recognised. The Gaia Foundation is working to develop a network of seed saving across the UK and Ireland, with their innovative crowd breeding project entering its second year, with promiscuous pollination used to encourage genetic diversity in the seeds.

The crowd breeding programme sees participating farms and market gardens pooling their seeds, helping to increase diversity across the population while also spreading the risk to the growers. Eventually, though, the project aims to develop bioregional seed saving to develop seeds with more local adaptations.

The project currently is working with broad beans growing several varieties together, allowing promiscuous

pollination and then mixing the beans up for the next sowing to ensure further genetic diversity. The intention is to develop beans which will thrive across growing conditions.

“The genetics are allowed to roam kind of freely and mix up again. I want to emphasise is that there has been intentional stewardship to these crops, so the group have really decided what they want, and there are selection criteria, pride applied to these crops,” explains Holly Silvester, Future Resilient Seed Coordinator at the Gaia Foundation. “The idea is that the genetics aren't bottlenecks.”

Pooling resources takes the edge off the risk a single farmer would be exposed to. As the project develops, the potential for local varieties which thrive across Scotland’s different landscape and climate is encouraging. The Scottish Government’s change in approach to the Organic Heterogenous Materials may offer wider opportunities for promiscuous pollination on our farms.

Ruth Watson is the founder of the Keep Scotland the Brand campaign

food & drink

British Berry Supplier Delivers Consistent Year-Round Fruit Donations with The Addition of Winter Strawberry Production

This winter marks the first time The Summer Berry Company will use its new year-round strawberry production to maintain a steady supply of berry donations throughout the year, supporting communities in need with fresh, local fruit.

The Summer Berry Company recently unveiled its Green Energy Solution which has enabled the supplier in West Sussex to become one of the first to grow strawberries 12 months a year, supplying major retailers Tesco, Sainsbury's and M&S with Britain’s iconic fruit in the depths of winter.

The £6 million investment in the new technology means the Summer Berry Company is now able to produce 600,000 punnets of British strawberries over the colder months[1] – with fewer retailers having to rely on flying imports in from countries like Egypt and Jordan to fulfill consumer demand.

A substantial quantity of these year-round British strawberries have and will be donated to two major UK based charities

The Chichester based supplier has longstanding relationships with food donation charities, UK Harvest and The Big Difference and has donated a total of 18,750 punnets of fresh strawberries to the foundations this year alone – with the Green Energy Solution allowing locally grown strawberries to be donated over winter for the first time.

Among the varieties being donated is the Summer Berry Company’s Fandango strawberry, which is the only strawberry in the world to receive a Superior Taste Award in 2024, having been granted the highest possible award of three stars by a panel of 250 chefs and

sommeliers – making it currently the tastiest strawberry in the world.

“As growers we invest in the earth and we believe it’s essential to give back and share the resulting harvest with those in need, especially around the festive period Bartosz Pinkosz, UK Operations Director says of the donations this year, "Our year-round production means

we can support our communities even through the winter months, not with offcuts or unwanted produce, but the highest-quality fruit.”

Commenting on the relationship with The Summer Berry Company, Nigel Boshein, Community Outreach and Engagement Officer at UK Harvest explains, "Thanks to this generous donation of

fresh berries, we can ensure that our Community Food Hub users are able to access highly nutritious fruit to share among their households throughout the summer and winter months. Knowing that we have these donations actually encourages more people to the hubs. Thank you to everyone at The Summer Berry Company for their ongoing support."

Co-op extends space to thrive welfare standard in convenience first

Co-op British breaded and ready to eat chicken will join its fresh range under the retailer’s Space to Thrive brand, which is chicken reared with reduced stocking density (30kg/m2) giving the birds 20% more space.

following a multi-million-pound investment.

The move follows the retailer’s fresh chicken range moving to its Space to Thrive brand range in February this year

Today, Co-op has announced it has become the first UK convenience retailer to extend its improved chicken welfare

food & drink Working hard to support Scottish farming

standard across its British Breaded and Ready-To-Eat range enabling Co-op members and customers to access chicken reared in 20% more space to perch and roam, at the same great value.

The 21 lines, which include Co-op’s British Breaded Chicken Goujons, British Garlic Kiev, British Roast Chicken Drumstick and British Sliced Chicken Breast, have now all been rebranded under the retailer’s Space to Thrive range, which sees chicken reared under welfare conditions that exceed the UK standard, with reduced stocking density and 20% more space.

It also means chickens come from naturally lit barns and have access to pecking objects and platforms for perching to enable more natural behaviours and a healthier life.

Co-op – who sells only 100% British meat and poultry, and free-range eggs - is amongst one of the first retailers to move its entire breaded chicken to the lower stocking density commitment alongside its fresh chicken range, which moved in February following a multimillion-pound investment.

Sinead Bell, Co-op’s Commercial Director, said: “Responsible sourcing matters to us, our members and customers and we’re proud to support

British farmers by sourcing 100% of our fresh meat and shell eggs from trusted farms from across Britain. We take animal welfare seriously and listen to our member owners, which is why we took action earlier this year and continued to significantly invest in our poultry supply chain to offer shoppers high quality products at the same great value. Today’s announcement underlines our unwavering commitment to this, and we are proud to be amongst the few retailers to extend the new lower stocking density to beyond fresh chicken.”

Initially announced at the Co-op AGM in May 2023, in line with their members’ requests, the convenience retailer had planned to launch the lower stocking density birds by the end of 2024, but by working closely, at pace, with their supplier, 2 Sisters Food Group, Co-op was able to first make the move 10 months earlier.

Now, all Co-op fresh and breaded chicken alongside 11 Ready To Eat lines are now bred to a maximum stocking density of 30kg/m2. This is reduced from the previous specification of 38kg/m2.

All Co-op Chicken exceeds Red Tractor standards, with RSPCA Assured Free Range chicken also available in store.

Next issue out March 2025

By Mairi Gougeon Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands

The Scottish Budget committed more than £660 million for agriculture and rural communities – continuing the direct support the Scottish Government has made to farmers, crofters and land managers.

Even in the most challenging financial situation in recent years we ensured that there were no cliff edges to the support government offers to help secure continuity of food production and enable farmers to better manage the volatility which they face on a range of fronts, such as weather conditions, market volatility and increasing costs.

Most of you will know that we brought forward processing of the Basic Payment Scheme and Greening advance payments, ahead of the planned systems improvements. More than 16,700 businesses – almost 97% of applications – have received over £400 million to date.

This backing, along with other programmes such as Voluntary Coupled Support and Less Favoured Areas Support Schemes, clearly demonstrates how vital farming is to Scotland.

No one can deny that there are still challenges ahead - while I fully recognise that multi-year funding would provide greater security, it is simply not possible when the UK Government Budget earlier this year failed to give any of us certainty, with no long-term commitments.

We continue to push for a reversal of the changes to Inheritance Tax that were imposed out of the blue, with no consultation with the sector or devolved governments.

And we will continue to challenge the decision to move the rural funding settlement to the populationbased Barnett formula –short changing the country once again.

This budget demonstrates our commitment to Scottish agriculture. We respect and support the vital work our farming and crofting communities do, both for food production and as a key delivery partner in mitigating climate change and protecting nature. This government is working hard to earn the trust of our farming and crofting communities.

Robots measure nature-friendly practices on Cornish farm

A Cornish farmer is trialling different approaches to improve soil health while reducing erosion and flooding – and using robotics technology to help him measure his success.

Working in a group of farmers across Cornwall, with Innovative Farmers and Farm Net Zero, Malcolm Barrett trialled methods of sowing maize that minimise ploughing. This including using “strip till” machinery that disturbed the soil in strips, rather than ploughing the whole field.

Maize needs a fine seed bed to establish and is easily outcompeted in its early growth stage. This means heavy ploughing takes place to help give the crop the best chance, but this can lead to degraded and compacted soils that risk polluting rivers via run-off.

This is a particular problem in the Southwest where there is a lot of maize grown to feed cattle, and the degraded soils typical to this crop can cause a real problem when autumn rain hits and washes soil onto roads and into rivers.

Since reducing the use of the plough on his farm via a variety of min till methods, the

trial – supported by Innovative Farmers - has helped Malcolm see dramatic improvements in his soil with less flooding and more worms.

Now the University of Plymouth has partnered with the trial as part of its ongoing research in the potential for agritech innovations to support land and water management.

The university is pioneering the development of sensors that estimate soil organic matter and moisture levels, using natural radioactivity signals that come from all soil minerals. This can provide data to help farmers see how effective their practices have been across a field and help them to plan how to better manage soils and water and improve productivity.

The research aims to show how the sensors can give the farmer a full picture of a field instantly on-site using hundreds of datapoints, rather than sending away a few soil samples

to a lab, waiting for results, and then hoping those samples are representative of the whole field. Sensors can be carried around the field to collect data, but this has now developed into cutting edge technology where the sensors operate on a robotic platform. The robots can be programmed to travel more slowly and accurately than walking, creating more consistent data and reducing work for the farmer or advisor.

Huge benefits for farmers and scientific research

St Tudy farmer Malcolm Barrett said: “We’re learning more about what the soil can do for us, and what we can do for the soil. It’s helping everyone by helping the environment and we’re getting huge benefits on our farm too. If we can understand our soil and our crops more, we can farm smarter by targeting our approach. Having thousands of data points from the robotic sensors helps to

build a whole picture – then we can see if there’s certain areas that need attention and single out management practices that work.”Professor Will Blake, Director of the Sustainable Earth Institute at the University of Plymouth, said: “This trial has meant we can get our science out of the lab and test it in a realworld setting, feeding back into other research programmes we’re working on. In this field lab, we’re using robotics to deploy soil assessment solutions that the world could take on. It’s great to be working with real farms –codesigning research questions with farmers is really important as it makes the technology we develop genuinely useful.”

Malcolm has also just signed up as a demo farm for a separate project called Agroecology at Scale where his farm will be used to demonstrate nature-friendly practices and inspire other farmers, so this sort of evidence and technology is extremely helpful.

Tractors & tractor technology for 2025

A brief review of some of the latest tractor models and technological advances in readiness for the season ahead

Case IH Puma range grows as Puma 240 becomes largest model now available with PowerDrive

The 240/270hp (rated/max with boost) Case IH Puma 240 can now be specified with a PowerDrive full powershift as an alternative to the standard CVXDrive continuously-variable transmission, providing buyers with more choice at this power level to match tasks, workloads and budgets.

Available on Puma 240 models with either electronic or mechanical remote valves, the new transmission option provides 18 or 19 forward speeds, depending on whether the tractor is ordered in 40km/ hr or 50km/hr maximum speed configuration. Both provide six reverse speeds. The largest Puma model previously available with PowerDrive full powershift was the 220hp/260hp (rated/ max with boost) Puma 220, meaning the new Puma 240 with PowerDrive offers 8% more power in a Puma powershift package, with key transmission components upgraded to match.

Elsewhere in the Puma range, customers can now choose larger Group 48 (2.05m) tyres for the Puma 185 and 200 with CVXDrive (previously only on the Puma 220/240/260 with CVXDrive). In addition,

the class 4.5 front axle is available on the full powershift Puma 185/200/220/240 with PowerDrive. This boosts load capacity by 13%, meeting the needs of customers operating front-mounted equipment or a loader. The axle upgrades permit an increased gross vehicle weight

of 14,000kg on Puma models with PowerDrive. On Puma tractors with CVXDrive this figure is 15,000kg, thanks to engine side rails and a combination of the HD rear and class 4.5 front axles. Like other Case IH machines the new model is compatible with FieldOps™, Case IH’s new

all-in-one data management mobile app and web platform, which connects and integrates agronomic insights and machine performance data, providing farmers with a comprehensive all-brand fleet overview regardless of their machine makes.

DEUTZ-FAHR 6.4 Series - from 6130.4 to 6150.4

The 6.4 Series is a range of lighter platform machines in the 130 to 150 Hp power range conceived to combine efficiency, compact dimensions, agility and comfort with hallmark German quality and technology. These tractors feature compact dimensions, a new and exclusive powertrain based on brand new engines, all-new, highly efficient transmissions and new front axles. The result is an integrated system delivering outstanding performance in all conditions, superior draft capacity and excellent global efficiency, whether driving at high speed on public roads or working in field or around the farm.

The models are available in three variants (6130.4 –_6140.4 – _6150.4), all sharing a contemporary, eye-catching

design in keeping with the style of today's DEUTZ-FAHR range.

The class-beating technological features of the new 6.4 models make them the perfect choice for any farm that needs a machine capable of tackling a wide variety of tasks, from soil preparation and hay-making, from general front loader work and feeder wagon to high speed road transport and stationary PTO tasks and snow-clearing use. Whatever the application, extraordinary comfort is guaranteed on board any 6.4 Series tractor with suspended MaxiVision cabs with ergonomic multifunction armrests and intuitive controls, front axles with hydraulic suspension and a choice of specific SDF Smart Farming Solutions for precision farming.

Alongside the compact dimensions of its 4-cylinder architecture, the new FARMotion 45 combines outstanding reliability and efficiency with extremely low operating costs. Contributing to the extraordinary efficiency of the engine is an

electronically controlled high pressure Common Rail fuel injection system. The system not only maximises torque and power delivery and allows for a flat torque curve but also optimises fuel combustion, reducing both consumption and noise.

Fendt launches new 600 Vario

Fendt has launched a new fourmodel 600 series tractor range aimed at the 140-210hp market. Key features include a new engine and Fendt’s latest VarioDrive transmission to boost performance and reduce fuel use.

The four models – 614, 616, 618 and 620 – offer powers from 149hp to 209hp and feature the recently introduced DynamicPerformance system that can provide an additional 15hp regardless of forward speed. The 600 Vario range is powered by a newly developed 4-cylinder 5 litre AGCO Power CORE50 engine. This enables it to be used for towing heavy loads, carrying front tanks, or operating heavy mounted implements.

The 620 Vario can reach a top speed of up to 50 km/h at 1,250 rpm and offers 950 Nm from 1,200 rpm to 1,600 rpm. With a power-to-weight ratio of 34.4 kg per hp the 600 Vario is also very manoeuvrable, providing a turning circle of just 10.2 metres with 540/65 R30 tyres.

Fendt’s VarioDrive transmission, pioneered by Fendt since 2015, features a single stage drive train which measures the slip on all four wheels to regulate power output. Minimising wheel slip using Fendt’s dynamic control system also provides greater traction

whilst reducing soil compaction. A clever cab-operated reversable fan has been borrowed from larger Fendt tractors to help operation in dusty conditions. The 600 also benefits from Fendt’s VarioGrip central tyre inflation system to improve tractive power

and fuel consumption by up to 8 percent.

The initial 50-hour service has been dropped in favour of a 500-hour service and there are maintenance-free hydraulic tappets built into the engine. The engine has also been prepared

First new John Deere 6M range to arrive in Scotland in 2025

The first orders from Scottish farming businesses for John Deere’s new 6M tractor will arrive in the coming months.

The new 6M range was announced in June 2024 is expected to be a game-changer, particularly for farms who are looking to purchase a replacement for their mixed fleet.

With 17 models in range, the updates announced not only give prospective buyers more choice, but allow them to build their specification up from a lower price point than the premium 6R, choosing the technology and features they need for day-to-day work.

For operators looking in the 150-200 horsepower range, there are six models to choose from – the small-frame 6M 150, the mid-frame 6M 155, 6M 165, 6M 185, and the large-frame 6M 180 and 6M 200. Each carries an IPM boost which adds approximately 20hp more to the rated performance.

All have six cylinders under the hood except for the four-cylinder 6M150, but the real step change is in the speed and transmission for this particular range.

All models now have the option of a 50km/h top speed, increasing from 40km/h in

previous iterations of the tractor, and also new for 2024 is the full range of John Deere’s transmissions, including AutoPowr.

This hydro-mechanical transmission delivers stepless and continuous power at speeds up to 50 km/h. Once running at maximum road speed, engine rpm automatically drops to the minimum level required to maintain that speed.

The next obvious change is in the cab which is simple but effective. A new high-resolution corner post display is integrated with the option of bringing in more screens to run GPS, ISOBUS and other features.

Two new Kioti tractor models have been introduced for 2025

The first is the 73 horse Power RX8040PC. It’s highly manoeuvrable and has an easy to drive Power shuttle transmission giving 20 forward and 20 reverse gears. Transition from forward to reverse is done by a handy lever

just to the left hand side of the steering wheel.

The modern air conditioned cabin has a plenty of space for the operator and the five post cabin gives easy access and a superb range of visibility.

AutoTrac is available throughout the range and a 10.1-inch G5 or 12.8-inch G5 Plus screen can be specified for running implements.

Tractors are compatible with JD Link to make it simple for users to send and receive information from the John Deere Operations Centre.

TRACTORS

The tractor is supplied with a front loader joystick as standard making it front loader ready. A self levelling front loader is available from Kioti. The Uk specification also includes hydraulic extending drawbar twin line hydraulic trailer brakes and beacons. A buddy seat is also standard. The RX 8040PC is also supplied with automatic head lift and an automatic lift feature that when reversing raises the rear implement.

With a rear lift of 3000kg at the link arms and a wide range of tyres available the RX tractor is suitable for farms, livestock and amenity customers as practical utility tractor.

Also available now is the 140 Horse power HX1402ATC. The power shift transmission with 32 forward and 32 reverse gears can be used either manually or automatically. The high torque engine digs in surprisingly deep when required giving a power full tractor in a lighter chassis

compared to the vast majority of the competition 140 horse power tractors. The HX like the RX has plenty of space and visibility in the cabin.

WILKS BROTHERS

The HX models are ideal for use a second tractor or for the Livestock farmer looking for a practical tractor around the yard.

All Kioti Tractors are sold with a 5 Year 3000 hour warranty. Talk with you local kioti dealer for details or contact www.kioti-uk.com

New Hollands’ new T5 Dual Command

New Holland returned to LAMMA 2025, showcasing a line-up of innovative machinery, including the first UK appearance of the new T5 Dual Command Tractor. `

At LAMMA 2025, New Holland displayed for the first time in the UK the new T5 Dual Command. Part of the new T5 series, which comprises five models from 80-117hp all powered by FPT F36 3.6-litre four-cylinder engines, the tractor has been given a new look and a series of updates designed to improve productivity and operator comfort. Alongside fresh styling, the T5 Dual Command tractors benefit from mechanical Comfort Ride cab suspension, wet disc front PTO and a rear lift capacity boost of 7% to 4,700kg. The range can now also be equipped with telematics previously only

available on higher power models including autoguidance, the IntelliView™ 12 touchscreen terminal and ISOBUS Class 2 implement connection. Also on display will be New Holland’s CR9.90 combine harvester, one of the brand’s flagship CR Revelation models. The range boasts a number of innovative features including its award-winning IntelliSense™ combine automation system, Dynamic Flow Control™ remotely adjustable rotor vanes, and the patented Opti-Spread™ Plus super wide spreading residue management system.

The T7 Long Wheelbase series will be exhibited on the stand, a premium tractor offering from New Holland, showcases the Horizon™ Ultra Cab, designed to maximise operator comfort with advanced sound insulation

and ergonomic controls. With its PLM Intelligence™, the T7 Long Wheelbase provides an integrated

forefront.

digital farming experience, bringing precision agriculture to the

SEPA end of year success with ‘first of its kind’ weir removal in Scotland

A river which has been inaccessible to fish for over 100 years has been reopened after an innovative approach was taken to remove a disused weir in Dumfries and Galloway.

The Davington Weir removal project in Eskdalemuir rounded off another rewarding year for the Water Environment Fund (WEF) team. It added to the 900 metres of river restored across Scotland and over 100 kilometres of habitat opened up for native migratory fish, in some cases after centuries of fish being obstructed by redundant weirs.

The Davington Weir project has improved fish migration in the Davington Burn and White Esk. With the burn returned to its natural state, the revived habitat will enable more fish to thrive up to 5 kilometres upstream.

It was the last project to be completed by the WEF team this year after the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) commissioned Ayrshire Rivers Trust (ART) to remove the weir prior to the winter months setting in. The work was carried out collaboratively with ART and two landowners – the British Geological Survey (BGS) and a private landowner. Due to the weir’s proximity to a BGS geophysical station, used for monitoring global earthquakes and the earth's magnetic field, its removal

required a careful approach. The use of heavy machinery was not viable as monitoring instruments are particularly sensitive to vehicles and vibrations.

SEPA and ART took the opportunity to explore the use of a low-impact method to remove the weir without affecting how the instruments perform – the first time this method has been used for a weir removal in Scotland.

By pouring expanding grout into holes drilled into the weir, the land was not exposed to unnecessary vibrations and pollution into the watercourse was minimised.

After leaving the grout to expand and weaken the concrete, ART removed the larger cracked pieces and then took meticulous care hand-drilling the remaining concrete from the weir, making it easier and quicker to remove from the watercourse.

The low-impact technique brought multiple benefits compared to using heavier machinery, including being cleaner and quieter. It was also the first time WEF supervised the work allowing the project to be delivered quicker and at a lower cost.

Improving Scotland’s rivers for migratory fish

Prior to works, fish were rescued upstream and downstream from the weir. This showed healthy populations of

salmon, brown trout and eel downstream, while upstream of the weir the numbers were much lower proving the impact the weir was having on their movement.

Julia MacPherson, SEPA’s River Restoration Specialist for the Water Environment Fund, said:

“The Davington Weir removal was a great project to work on because we were able to achieve positive improvements to the burn and surrounding area in a short space of time. The channels around the rock now allow fish to swim up through to the valuable upstream habitat giving our wild fish a better chance of thriving as the climate changes.

“This project perfectly rounds off another productive year delivering WEF projects to communities across Scotland, showcasing a unique technique that has the potential to be used in other WEF projects in the future. It is a testament to the essential work SEPA support with WEF, enabling more rivers to be restored and reopened to fish across Scotland.”

Struan Candlish, Fisheries Biologist for ART, said:

“ART were pleased to win the tender for the removal of Davington Weir at Eskdalemuir on the Esk Catchment. Using demolition grout to remove a weir is a first for Scotland

and will no doubt become an invaluable tool in removing barriers to salmon, trout and eel migration and restoring the ecology of damaged rivers.

“There were many lessons from this project that we will take forward and employ across Ayrshire to reconnect fish to their native habitats. Removing barriers is one of the quickest ways of increasing fish populations and helps meet Scotland’s environmental targets.”

Claire Brown, BGS Eskdalemuir Site Manager, said:

“WEF representatives willingly assisted with every step of the process ensuring that the requirements of the BGS site were met. As a result, the weir was successfully removed in October 2024 and SEPA are now in the process of hiring a contractor to complete the last phase of the work to improve habitat with riverside tree planting.

“BGS are delighted to have been involved in this project knowing that removal of the weir will have a positive environmental impact, improve habitat quality and leave biodiversity in a measurably better state for the future. As a result of such collaborative working BGS and SEPA (WEF) have gone some way to allowing Davington Burn to fulfil its ecological potential.”

Ffermio Cymru

NFU Cymru/NFU Mutual Livestock Champion Award winner 2024

The Roberts family from Ty Draw, Llanasa, Holywell have been announced as the winners of the NFU Cymru/NFU Mutual Welsh Livestock Champion of the Year Award 2024.

The competition has been on the lookout for its 10th winner and recognises the key role a good livestock manager can make to a livestock farm and to the wider Welsh livestock industry.

Mathew and his father David run Ty Draw Farm. Proud producers of Welsh livestock, the family keeps texel-cross ewes, fattening store lambs and beef cattle.

The farm has adapted from purchasing strong store cattle at various markets to becoming an integrated partner for Morrisons Elite Beef scheme where they now run, rear and fatten Angus cattle for the supermarket shelves. In addition to the cattle, there are crossbred ewes that also supply Morrisons and St Asaph Mart. Once their own lamb crop is sold, they fatten a large number of store lambs.

The Roberts family are one of Morrisons key partners in developing their farming strategy and they are also involved in farm trials to help reduce emissions. They are the only blueprint farm in Wales. Stock is of the highest quality and so much so, the family were runners-up in the British Farming Awards Sheep Farmer of the Year 2023. Matthew and David feature in many Morrisons stores across their red meat isles and the farm features as a demonstration site for Farming Connect and Morrisons.

The business is focused on achieving Net Zero as part of the Morrisons scheme, with lots of focus being placed on reducing bought in feed through route crops and fodder beet, as well as crimped barley grown on farm. They are constantly trying to improve daily liveweight gain and reduce time on farm through efficiency which ultimately make the business more profitable.

The aim for the father and son duo is to ensure their business remains sustainable in the long term and reducing costs by growing better grasses along with red clover leys to produce better quality silage. Matthew and David don’t necessarily want to increase the size of their operation, but they do want to operate more efficiently and get

more out of their land. Both see technology playing an essential role in reaching that goal. They have overhauled their systems to record more data in recent years.

All cattle and sheep are fitted with electronic identification (EID) tags and monitored using Agriwebb software and weigh cells.

The Roberts family are true believers in farming as efficiently as possible whilst not compromising on the standard of livestock, wanting to reach the net zero aim whilst maintaining their supply of quality Welsh lamb and beef.

Presenting Matthew with the prize of £500, sponsored by NFU Mutual, and a Royal Welsh engraved crystal trophy, Chairman of NFU Cymru’s

Livestock Board, Rob Lewis, said: “David and Matthews attention to detail and care for their stock were clear to see and I am delighted to be able to present Matthew with this award today. The quality of their stock and his enthusiasm to continue to develop the business was second to none. I have no doubt that the Roberts family are a welldeserved winner of this award.”

Mike Thomas, NFU Mutual Senior Agent and NFU Cymru Group Secretary, who was part of the judging panel, said: “It was clear to see the enthusiasm David and Matthew have for the quality of their stock as soon as we met with them. They were passionate about the care their animals receive but also ensuring the business remains profitable.”

Winners of the NFU Cymru/NFU Mutual Welsh Livestock

Champion of the Year Award 2024

renewable energy

GMG Energy installs high-efficiency boiler to kiln-dry fuel for Highland consumers’ log burning stoves

A highly efficient renewable powered fuel boiler funded by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) has been installed by Halladale-based GMG Energy and is now being used to help kiln-dry logs for domestic stoves throughout the Highland and beyond.

And, said owner-director, Malcolm Morrison, after a professional installation process masterminded by consulting engineer, Andy Groves, the boiler is now operating at full tilt, fuelled by the wood chips and sawdust created as a by-product of GMG’s timber sawmill.

Mr Morrison said: “I am delighted that, thanks to HIE Account Manager, Keith Muir who helped us with a capital expenditure grant and Andy’s expert guidance, we have a firstclass boiler which plays a critical role in powering the kiln dryer which provides us with tons of timber logs to heat the homes of households across the Highlands.”

Established in 2016, GMG Energy operates a state-of-the-art sawmill on a farm in the Halladale Strath between Tongue and Thurso, producing kiln-dried logs, chip and sawdust for consumers and wholesalers.

Said Andy: “The boiler is quite technically sophisticated and well capable of being used in an energy efficient manner. It took a while to install it due to having to upgrade the electric capability at the sawmill, but the results that Malcolm has been getting from it are first class.

“I like to think that between us, we have made a good contribution to promoting the benefits of the circular economy.”

GMG Energy makes door to door deliveries throughout the north Highlands and manufactures timber products for agricultural businesses, builders and consumers. It also supplies bark for garden centres, sawdust for livestock and dried chip for supply to local businesses and councils.

GMG Energy is committed to replacing every log of timber it uses, planting about 20,000 trees in 2021. As a result, businesses across the North and the Islands can reduce their carbon footprint by sourcing locally.

New approach taken to improve ewe health

An upland farm has seen encouraging results from a pre-lambing calcium drench, helping to reduce dependence on traditional pharmaceuticals.

East Kiromy Farm, in the north of Scotland, has focused more on the diet of its flock of ewes on the approach to tupping, therefore improving body condition, whilst the use of Calci-Ewe, a calcium drench, around lambing has supported ewe health.

Neil Mackay and Caroline Swanson farm 300 acres with a flock of 550 breeding Hill Cheviots along with a beef herd.

“On the approach to tupping we have started incorporating a feet and fertility bucket along with premium ewe rolls, which has seen the body condition of ewes improve significantly at this key time in the sheep calendar. We also found that ewes struggling before lambing responded well to the calcium drench,” says Mr Mackay.

Lambing takes place indoors throughout April and May and it was during this time that there was cause for concern with a small number of ewes. “When we brought the flock in towards the end of their pregnancy we saw a

number of ewes standing alone and not moving. The stress of bringing them off the hill and the pregnancy was evident, but the Calci-Ewe in conjunction with a twin lamb solution worked well and brought them round,” he says.

“We needed to administer the drench to just 12 ewes, a lower than normal number which is more than likely a result of the enhanced diet we have invested in. In previous years we have relied on advice from our vet to use antibiotics. However, these are no longer a viable or sustainable option for the farm and we have found that

using supplements, along with managing body condition, is working well,” he says.

The farm is always looking for new ways to improve ewe health and lambing percentages. Mr Mackay suggests that this has led to him seeking out and using alternatives to traditional options.

“We have never wanted to rely on pharmaceuticals and have always managed the flock to minimise the use of antibiotics. Being able to use a product for ewes struggling before lambing that is cost effective and readily available from a local retailer has been a good option for us,” he says.

“It is good to have products on the market that offer the energy ewes need to get through prelambing exhaustion. Furthermore, the variable weather we are more commonly experiencing, especially the heavy rain, have led us to believe that forage quality may also have been reduced, but the drench of calcium, magnesium and niacin made up for this,” he adds.

The continually wet conditions and variable temperatures experienced on not only this farm but throughout the UK have led to widespread concern over soil leaching and forage quality. Depleted vitamin, mineral and trace element levels in soil and, therefore, forage has led many to look at alternative ways to supplement livestock diets.

“We are yet to have our forage tests back this year, but I am certain that this year has been a challenge for the flock to get enough from forage alone. This was clear to see in the ewes that received the

calcium drench ahead of lambing and it is something that we are now trying to compensate for,” he says.

Overall, the farm’s scanning rates have improved since diet, along with vitamin, mineral and

trace element balance, has been addressed. This has also cut the cost of relying on antibiotics.

“We have not gone to the length of blood testing because we believe that by managing

diet and using supplements like Calci-Ewe, we can provide what the flock needs and reduce both our reliance on, and the cost of, traditional pharmaceuticals,” he concludes.

AMAZONE QuickLink system keeps all the cultivation options open

Whether it is direct seeding, reduced disturbance drilling, min-till or drilling after the plough, the multi-hopper Centaya seed drill ticks all the boxes when it comes to crop establishment due to its interchangeable cultivation system under the drill. On heavier soils, or where a more intensive cultivation is necessary, then the KG rotary cultivator is still the best option, but for direct seeding, where maybe rape is being established after a cereal crop, or a cover crop is going into stubble postharvest, then the Minimum TillDisc is the answer.

The AMAZONE QuickLink system consists of three mounting points connecting the drill to the cultivator. A tool-less changeover means that the KG rotary cultivator can be dropped off and either the CombiDisc compact disc harrow, or the Minimum TillDisc unit, can

be simply and quickly mounted underneath in minutes.

This also gives the option of using the cultivation tool solo without the drill on board when stubble chitting for a stale seedbed, for instance, or when preparing ground for non-arable crops giving the utmost in flexibility.

The CombiDisc 3000 is a twin row of 410mm serrated discs working opposite each other to give an intensive shallow, top tilth which is ideal for planting wheat after beans, or cereals after a cover crop. This intensive action leaves a good mix of crop residue and tilth in the seeding profile as well as generating some N mineralisation to promote early seedling growth. The CombiDisc is also ideal postcombine as a high-speed tool to move the top few centimetres of ground thus promoting volunteers and weed seed germination to give a cleaner lead into the subsequent

crop. In the spring, the CombiDisc is perfect for generating a tilth without bringing too much wet up from underneath.

The Minimum TillDisc consists of two rows of 410 mm wavy discs each of which runs directly ahead of the seed coulter. The wavy profile guarantees that the disc turns and the action of the disc cuts through any long

material to keep the seed drill flowing as well as bringing a little soil moisture up to the seed slot to promote better germination in drier conditions.

So to keep ahead of the game in this world of ever-changing crop establishment techniques, then look no further than the Centaya grain and fertiliser drill range.

Grange cultivators tackle compaction

Adapting cultivations to address compaction while producing a seedbed more efficiently has led Co Wexford farmer Tomas Codd to invest in two soil loosening implements from Grange Machinery.

Mr Codd, who grows malting barley, winter wheat, oilseed rape, oats and beans alongside running a dairy herd, explains: “With machinery getting bigger and heavier, we needed to alleviate compaction to get better results.”

He turned his attention first to oilseed rape, of which he establishes 90ha per year. A trial of the Grange Strip-Till Preparator from local dealer Kellys of Borris proved impressive.

This implement uses three independent rows of cultivation discs that can be hydraulically adjusted whilst working in harmony with a low disturbance tine and point to create a perfectly cultivated row that is ready to plant into.

The seedbed is finished with a zonal Guttler prism roller ring to break down any clods that have flowed through the system as well as consolidating the row in readiness for the planter. Cultivating only in the row preserves moisture, cuts power consumption and is particularly suited to crops such as oilseed rape and maize.

“We saw very good establishment and at the same time it was a one-man job when we were busy with harvest – OSR usually needs two people on cultivations before we drill.”

He adds that there were further benefits in the very wet 2023 season.

“Areas that we would expect to be waterlogged were much dryer where the Strip Till Preparator was used.”

However, the small area of oilseed rape on the farm made a dedicated implement hard to justify and Mr Codd went back to

Grange in search of a simpler tool that could work with a range of crops.

He opted for a 3m Close Coupled Toolbar (CCT), which uses Grange Low Disturbance legs to alleviate compaction whilst improving the soil structure, and can work down to 30cm. It can be fitted with a rear packer roller or a hydraulic linkage to allow a drill or shallow cultivator to be fitted behind.

“The CCT gets air into the soil and allows it to dry out and

then we can go straight in with a 6m set of discs to prepare the seedbed ahead of drilling. After a tined cultivator we were having to make three or four runs with a disc or power harrow to make a seedbed for sprint cereals – the tines pull up clods which you then have to break back down,” Mr Codd explains.

Results from spring crops have shown no yield penalty, and he remarks that the improved seedbed meant that they established successfully in a difficult year.

HE-VA Stealth

Designed to satisfy the requirements of no till and reduced input farming systems the Stealth is a medium depth, low disturbance subsoiler featuring 15mm thick Stealth LD legs made from Hardox steel. The Stealth loosens and fractures the medium depth subsoil to relieve compaction thus assisting drainage, aeration, nitrogen uptake and encouraging crop rooting. Reduced surface disturbance is also essential in fighting grassweeds. Although certainly useful in a conventional farming system to alleviate compaction, the Stealth is a must have tool in transitioning to a regenerative farming system due to its capabilities to keep soil disturbance to a minimum with the low-disturbance legs running behind leading disc

openers which make a slot ahead of the leg. A Multi-Seeder and Accu-Disc can also be mounted/ fitted to the Stealth to establish OSR or cover crops in one pass. The Stealth also performs in grassland where compaction is an issue, caused by poaching and vehicle damage. Loosening and fracturing the medium depth subsoil will assist drainage and water infiltration, aeration, nitrogen uptake and encourage grass rooting.

HE-VA Subsoilers are designed for minimum draft and maximum heave without bringing large unwanted clods to the surface. Available in 7 different frame sizes from 2.5m to 7m, mounted rigid subsoilers are available in 2.5m, 3m, 3.5m & 4m working widths, mounted hydraulic folding subsoilers come in working widths of

4m and 5m, whilst the trailed hydraulic folding subsoilers are available in 4m, 5m, 6m and 7m working widths. The Subsoilers

come with a number of different leg options to create the correct specification to do the best job on any individual farm.

environment

New net zero project focuses on grasslands

Scottish researchers are playing a key role in a UK-wide project aimed at transforming grasslands for net zero

Scientists at Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) based in the Highlands and Aberdeen will measure greenhouse gas emissions from grazing livestock, as well as analyse soil health and carbon storage in lowland and upland grass.

The Scotland-based research has received a £566,000 grant from UKRI’s Transforming Land Use for Net Zero (LUNZ), Nature and People programme. It is part of a wider project led by the University of the West of England, which aims to help the UK achieve its mitigation goals, with “the potential to help the UK save more than £1.6 billion annually”.

At SRUC’s Hill & Mountain Research Centre near Loch Lomond, scientists will assess effects of different grazing strategies in upland lamb production on soil, greenhouse gas emissions, productivity and efficiency.

Self-selection of where to graze by individuals within the flock of 600 hill sheep will be monitored via animal locational recording and GPS tracking. Methane emissions will be measured from individual sheep using the portable GreenSheep facility, alongside growth, body conditions, maternal traits, and welfare.

On SRUC’s farm in Aberdeen, the project will utilise a long-term experiment to investigate the carbon storage potential of short-term leys in arable rotations. This experiment offers a unique opportunity to follow grazed mixed herbal leys through their lifetime and subsequent incorporation for

arable production. Gaseous losses of carbon and nitrogen will be measured throughout the entire rotation.

SRUC will also lead one of six UK Land Use Clusters for Agroecology (LUCAs), each designed to engage with a range of farmers and land managers. The Scottish cluster will address the use of rotational grazing and agri-tech for improved grassland management and understanding the role of vegetation type in soil carbon storage.

Working with a wide group of stakeholders to identify public priorities and trade-offs with respect to ecosystem services, the valuation of ecosystem services will help to inform future support measures.

Professor Christine Watson, who is leading the SRUC research, said: “This a really exciting project where we are able to contribute a considerable range of expertise,

across grasslands, ecology, animal science and modelling, in helping to truly understand the climate change mitigation potential of UK grassland.”

Pipeline of Scottish hydrogen projects grows by 66% in two years

The number of projects to produce green hydrogen in Scotland has increased by two thirds in just two years

According to figures compiled by Scottish Enterprise, more than 100 projects – from Sullom Voe in Shetland to Chapelcross Dumfries and Galloway - are now in various stages of development across the country, up from 61 in

2022, indicating that investors increasingly see Scotland as a leader in the emerging technology.

Speaking to key industry figures in London ahead of the Hydrogen For Life conference, Deputy First Minister Kate

Forbes confirmed the country’s growing potential for hydrogen production and export. She also reiterated the Scottish Government’s desire to work with international investors and partners.

A Hydrogen Sector Export Plan will be published shortly.

The Deputy First Minister said: “As a nation with a proud industrial heritage, Scotland can lead the energy transition while preserving and creating highquality jobs. The development of Scotland’s hydrogen economy can provide economic and social benefits as well as helping us realise our net zero ambitions.

“The potential international trade opportunity from hydrogen is considerable and market signals for the importing of hydrogen are growing strongly. This opens up new economic and jobs and skills opportunities and the development of clean and enduring industrial scale activity here in Scotland.

“As set out in our Green Industrial Strategy, growing the

hydrogen sector is a priority for the Scottish Government. We will

shortly publish our Hydrogen Sector Export Plan which will set out our pathway to maximising export opportunities.”

New project to benefit net zero targets, soil health, biodiversity and agriculture

Researchers at the University of East Anglia (UEA) have received a share of £14.5 million in funding to support projects that seek to revolutionise agricultural practices, land use change and soil health in the pursuit of a more sustainable future.

Five projects have received the funding from UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and government partners, under phase two of the Transforming Land Use for Net Zero, Nature and People programme (LUNZ), which aims to boost the UK's efforts to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.

The three-year, £4 million UEA project – OpenLAND - will see researchers carry out an evaluation of climate-

resilient interventions for land management and soil health that could benefit net zero targets, biodiversity and agriculture.

The work will be led by Professor Rachel Warren of the Tyndall Centre for Climate Change at UEA, and Professor Brian Reid from the School of Environmental Sciences. It will create a validated, UK-wide, spatially explicit integrated modelling framework to evaluate potential net zero pathways.

The project will extend the capability of the OpenCLIM modelling framework, which was developed with previous UKRI funding. This will be achieved by ground-truthing soil carbon and soil health using empirical data and by developing

and trialling robotic monitoring for measuring and verifying soil carbon and health.

“OpenLAND will use computer models to look at how the way land is managed in the UK can contribute to net zero,” explained Prof Warren.

“It will map out plans for land use management that combine carbon storage, restoration of biodiversity and sustainable agriculture.

“We will use the computer models to quantify and map the relative merits and effectiveness of alternative land management plans with stakeholders to assist them with their decision making. A unique aspect of the project is that we will calibrate the computer models with

measurements of carbon stored in the soil at a number of field sites in Norfolk and beyond.”

Prof Reid added: "Using nature-based solutions to contribute to a net zero future has enormous potential. The funding will allow us to build a much better understanding of carbon storage, both above and below the ground, and to use eDNA approaches to link soil carbon properties to soil health.

“The project will trial sensor technologies, mounted on autonomous in-field robots, to streamline assessment of soil carbon stocks and soil health. We seek to evidence win-wins for climate change mitigation and a healthier more resilient environment."

Supporting poultry welfare during housing orders

Poultry are intelligent animals and need to be able to exhibit natural behaviours, otherwise they can express undesirable behaviours. During recent housing orders, in which the Government mandated that all poultry be kept inside in an effort to reduce the spread of Avian influenza, many keepers noticed increased incidence of undesirable behaviours such as feather pecking. Enrichments can help reduce stress in your poultry and encourage normal behaviour.

Undesirable behaviours

Feather pecking is an abnormal behaviour where hens peck each other, which can lead to feather loss and skin damage. This can then lead to injurious pecking where the birds start to harm one another which can result in death and cannibalism.

Feather pecking is generally linked to a stressor, such as: inadequate housing, lack of suitable foraging material, high temperatures, poor quality litter, changes in environment (housing order forcing keepers to house birds that are used to being allowed to range), changes in

Protect your Farms Water Supply: The Essential Case for Using a Water Level Alarm

feed/poor nutrition, uneven flock uniformity, poor animal health and external parasites such as red mite. It is vital to address the potential stressors, particularly for birds that are used to being able to range previously. Utilising enrichments can help reduce stress in your poultry, encourage normal behaviour such as foraging, and reduce undesirable behaviours while housed.

Enrichments

Destructible enrichments such as egg trays, lucerne bales or other fibre sources, pecking blocks and jute rope are preferable as the bird gets feedback (destructible) and depending on the material some can be eaten.

Other options which are relatively commonly used in the poultry industry are plastic bottles filled with coloured liquid, footballs, parking cones, CDs hanging from the ceiling and other non-destructible materials. These options are less desirable as there is less positive feedback and some are not safe for the chickens to consume.

With the rising cost of mains water, many farmers are opting for private water supplies to meet their farm’s needs from yard washing to irrigation to cattle drinking water. Water is usually pumped from private sources like boreholes or streams, to a storage tank, allowing for distribution to various locations on the farm at a consistent pressure. But, distribution of this water can only be reliable if the water is in fact there!...

ENQUIRY

Whisper Pumps received an enquiry from Agripuls, a North Yorkshire based agricultural machinery distributor who primarily serve the dairy industry. Many of their customers rely on private water supplies, and they were seeking a solution to prevent these systems from running dry, which could lead to costly system failures and loss of supply! Without a dependable water source, cows would be left without water, leading to not only dehydration but also lots of empty troughs being carried out the shed – yes, we mean by the cows!

THE SOLUTION

The Whisper Pumps water level alarm!

We specify our water level alarms to be installed on water storage tanks to provide visual and audible alerts when the water level exceeds or, in Agripuls’s case, drops below a predetermined threshold.

These notifications offer several advantages, the most crucial being that they give you time to address any issues before your cows run out of water. Agripuls recommends that dairy farmers with private water supplies maintain at least 20,000 litres of stored water for every 250 cows. This amount ensures that the tank level can fluctuate according to demand while keeping a sufficient buffer.

To enhance their customers’ peace of mind, water level alarms are now recommended as an essential addition to their setup. This way, if a water level issue occurs, you’ll be promptly informed! The alarm can be adjusted to your desired level; for example, in a 20,000 litre tank, the alarm can be set to trigger when the tank is ¾ empty, providing you with ample time to take action.

Agripuls purchases these water level alarms, and many other products from Whisper Pumps. James from Agripuls shared the “Whisper Pumps team are extremely knowledgeable about the products they sell. Their practical experience is worth a lot today, and whenever we encounter any water-related issues, they are the people we turn too”.

So, can you see how implementing a water level alarm can help you or your customers safeguard livestock, limit downtime when it comes to irrigation and prevent costly system failures? By partnering

with suppliers like Whisper Pumps, we not only recommend top quality products but also assist you in navigating challenges, as demonstrated in this example with Agripuls. By prioritising water management, farmers can ensure the health of their herds and the success of their agricultural endeavors for years to come.

FARMING SCOTLAND MAGAZINE

Next issue out March 2025

Subscription page 25

The Royal Northern Spring Show

This February sees the Royal Northern Agricultural Society make a welcome return to Aberdeen and Northern Mart Group’s Thainstone Centre for this year’s Spring Show, which will be held on Wednesday, February 26.

Held annually by the Society at the end of February, the one-day event is the first major showcase of the Scottish farming calendar and brings together an international group of livestock judges in cattle, sheep and horse categories along with a highly experienced team judging arable sections and attracts thousands of visitors along with the cream of competitors from across the north-east and beyond. Allied to the exhibition event, site owners Aberdeen and Northern Marts also hold a show and sale of pedigree bulls on the same day.

Utilising the entirety of the versatile mart and exhibition facility, the show also offers the first market place gathering of the season for agricultural suppliers, associated businesses and many groups with charitable ties to the farming sector and over the years has grown to average over 100 participants spread over the main building’s concourse and external spaces.

Leading the judging this year, in the exhibition cattle section, sponsored by JDW Agri Ltd is renowned multi-title winning championship breeder Dermot Small from Kilkeen, Co Downs. 2024 saw the supreme championship title taken by Michael and Mark Robertson of Fodderletter Farms, Tomintoul with a home-bred yearling bullock while the reserve overall honours were claimed by Andrew Anderson of Smallburn Farms, Elgin with an 11-month-old Limousin cross heifer.

Judging in the breeding sheep section sponsored by Caledonia Farm Vets based in Strichen this year falls to Alan Ross of Wardhead, Strichen Mains where last year saw a clean sweep for William and David Moir of Home Farm, Cairness, Fraserburgh who took both the champion and reserve title.

The increasingly popular horse categories, sponsored this

year by Donview Vets Horses sees Clydesdales judged by Mark Noble, Ashmore, Meikle Wartle, Highlands - Ms Jo Jack, Wester Newburn, Leven, Mountain and Moorland by Dennis Andrew, Ride and Drive/ Coloureds/ RNAS Young Handlers by Susan Don, Newport on Tay, Fife, Light Horses by Morag Snow, Montrave Home Farm, Leven, Shetlands by Douglas McArthur,

Culloden, Inverness and the Overall Champion Horse and Pony by Freda Newton, Newells, Oldmeldrum.

2024 saw the overall supreme horse or pony award claimed by Heaton Seren from Aina Barnwell from Aberchirder. The mare on her first outing at the time as a senior won the Ride and Drive Championship before going on to be top pick while Collessie Alanna from Ronnie Black from Fife, took reserve overall horse, best bred by exhibitor and champion Clydesdale.

With preparations now well underway and entries open RNAS president Cameron McIver said “Being the first show after winter and before busy spring work moves into top gear, farmers and country folk get a chance to meet, share problems and new ideas, and most importantly get away from the daily grind and have a laugh with old and new friends.

“There’s something for everyone a large horse section, breeding sheep, prime lambs, exhibition cattle, pedigree bulls with a large increase of prize money sure to attract big entries.

“The finest produce in Scotland competing against each other grain, potatoes, turnips, hay, silage.

“Young farmers stock judging and on top of that the latest machinery and technical innovations on display it’s gearing up for a fantastic show

“This year tickets can be bought online, so take advantage of

RNAS president Cameron McIver

the early bird discount tickets and be entered into a prize draw worth hundreds of pounds to the lucky winner. So guys push the boat out, buy your loved one a ticket to the spring show! You never know you might come home with more than you left with. “

The event also sees the annual pedigree bull and female championship and sale event which is run by Aberdeen and Northern Marts.

2024 saw a double win for J & S Middleton, Cowfords Farm, New Pitsligo with the Charolais breed champion and overall bull champion claimed by their March 2022-born bull Hollywell Taco which sold to 11,000gns at the subsequent sale.

Cameron added:” The Society is as ever grateful to Aberdeen and Northern marts for their continued support of the Spring show, and the hard work by their staff getting Thainstone ready for the event.

“We hope to see you all on the 26th of February.”

The Royal Northern Spring Show

science & technology

Lightbulb moment for fungi scientists

Amid the climate emergency and with energy prices remaining high, scientists are exploring new ways of producing cost-effective, sustainable and environmentally friendly ways to produce light.

By copying nature, bioluminescent fungi could provide us with an alternative light source, thus reducing our demand on fossil fuels.

Researchers from Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) and the Empa (Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology) St Gallen, Switzerland have successfully inserted the decay fungus Desarmillaria tabescens – a white rot fungus – into balsa wood to make it glow, with the aim of producing functionality.

While bioluminescence –colloquially known as “fox fire” –is a familiar sight in decaying wood in nature, especially in the mycelial strands that resemble bootlaces, it is the first time the process has been “tamed” in a laboratory.

Although it is in its very early stages, the scientists involved believe it could one day be used as an alternative light source, such as a battery-free glow to light homes and communities, medical imaging and optical sensing to dyes and paints and a bioluminescentbased bioassay for detecting wood preservatives.

Dr Hugh Morris from SRUC, one of the team of scientists working on the project led by Empa’s Professor Dr Francis Schwarze, said: “With global concerns about the climate emergency and the urgency to reach net zero emissions, new technologies are critical in our race to protect the planet from overheating. Although in its very early stages, this research

represents an exciting glimpse of an alternative light source.”

The work develops a methodology to produce a hybrid living material by manipulating wood colonisation through merging the living fungus Desarmillaria tabescens with nonliving balsa (Ochroma pyramidale) wood to achieve and control the autonomous emission of bioluminescence.

The hybrid material with the highest bioluminescence is produced by soaking the wood blocks and co-cultivating them with the fungus for three months followed by exposing them to air in the dark.

Benjamin Franklin, the scientist and American Founding Father, used glowing wood in ship’s compasses while, in Mark Twain’s Huckleberry Finn, the eponymous hero is able to find his way out of a mineshaft by following the glow given off by the decaying timber.

AgXeed wins world's first TOTYBot award

AgXeed has been awarded the inaugural TOTYBot award at the EIMA International agricultural machinery exhibition in Bologna, Italy. This year's new Tractor of the Year (TOTY) category recognises ground-breaking, market-ready autonomous vehicles for agricultural and plantation work.

The Tractor of the Year Award is the most prestigious international award for tractors. It is bestowed annually by a panel of judges from

26 countries, alternating between Agritechnica and EIMA. In 2023 CLAAS won the coveted award in the Open Field category with the XERION 12.650 TERRA TRAC – followed by a host of

other international and national accolades.

The judges were also impressed by the operational reliability and soil-friendly capabilities of the AgBot 5.115.

T2: 'While fully electric tractors are gaining popularity, the AgBot's diesel system currently offers greater efficiency and extended operational time, capable of working for up to 20 hours. Thanks to the 900 mm rubber tracks, the ground pressure is less than 0.25 kg/cm², making a valuable contribution to soil protection and reducing the environmental impact.'

The breakthrough will enable agriculture drones to navigate across unlimited distances without GPS

Similar to fingerprint scanners, NILEQ’s technology—based on neuromorphic sensors—scans the changing terrain as a drone flies across it, and matches it to an existing database of the Earth’s surface. Once a match is locked, it will feed updates of absolute positioning to the INS - removing drift errors and the need for GPS. See it for yourself here.

The innovation will enable faster and easily repeatable

farming operations on lowcost drones, suited for largescale projects such as crop monitoring, soil analysis, aerial mapping and targeted spraying. It will also enhance the safety of beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) enabling drones to function in environments where GPS signals are weak or obstructed, such as dense tree cover or interference from other ag-equipment.

CLAAS launch new Digital Experience Centre

With the roll-out of the CLAAS connect digital ecosystem, CLAAS has developed a new Digital Experience Centre at its UK headquarters at Saxham, Suffolk. Christian Radons, the CLAAS Group Executive Board member with responsibility for the global Service & Sales Business Unit, officially opened the new facilities this week alongside the Digital Solutions team from CLAAS UK.

CLAAS connect brings together all CLAAS digital solutions into one cloudbased platform, from machine configuration and product information through to operating instructions, service advice, licence management and precision farming solutions, all seamlessly connected and accessed via a single ID log-in.

The rapid development of digital technology now available to farmers can be bewildering. So as with the tractor and materials handling Customer Experience Centre at Saxham, with the aid of simulators, the new Digital Experience Centre enables customers to use, experience and be guided through the functions and benefits of CLAAS connect. Visitors can also now be walked through the intelligent steering systems available on CLAAS products, so that they can gain a better understanding of the technology and the benefits this can bring to their business.Speaking at the opening, which was attended by CLAAS UK colleagues from various departments at Saxham, Christian Radons reiterated the

important role that CLAAS connect plays as an integral part of the connectivity between customer’s machines and their farm business software.

The launch of the new Digital Experience Centre follows the establishment of the new Digital Business Team at Saxham which provides both machine-mounted and office-based support for digital solutions, led by Rob Fillingham, Head of Digital Business.

Green Growth: Hydrogen’s Role in Powering the Future of Agriculture

Hydrogen-powered agriculture is a timely topic in the UK with the Government announcing farming vehicles are set to undergo a hydrogen revolution.

This switch to cleaner technology will allow farming and construction – two sectors central to the UK economy –decarbonise faster in line with net zero principles.

One manufacturer embracing the change is JCB who have been given a special order to produce hydrogen-powered equipment for farms and building sites around the country.

This forms plans for a larger UK-wide economy that could be worth £900 million by 2030, creating 9000 highly-skilled jobs. Britain has also committed to having a 10GW capacity by 2030.

Fuelling company, Dover Fueling Solutions®, examine the benefits and potential challenges of using Hydrogen power for agriculture.

Potential uses for Hydrogen on UK Farms

Hydrogen can play a crucial role in multiple aspects of farming, particularly for equipment and production systems that demand high levels of power.

For instance, while electric mobility is often unsuitable for heavy-duty machines due to power limitations, hydrogen offers an efficient alternative.

Much like hydrogen fuel cell trucks, which can travel up to 500 miles without refuelling, hydrogen-powered tractors and harvesters would provide long-

lasting energy while reducing emissions.

Equipment such as irrigation systems and grain dryers can also be powered by hydrogen, ensuring that farm operations remain efficient and sustainable.

Hydrogen is not only a clean fuel source, but it is also highly versatile. In postharvest processes like grain drying, hydrogen generators can provide a reliable source of heat, reducing both operational costs and the farm’s carbon footprint.

Furthermore, the use of hydrogen for transportation and refrigeration could ensure that farming systems become increasingly sustainable, with fewer greenhouse gas emissions.

By using hydrogen across different facets of the farm, the

agriculture industry could see significant improvements in both efficiency and sustainability.

The Pros of Hydrogen for UK Agriculture

One of the biggest advantages of hydrogen in agriculture is its environmental impact. Hydrogen is a clean fuel, producing only water vapour and heat as by products.

By replacing traditional fuels like diesel with hydrogen, farmers can dramatically reduce their carbon emissions and contribute to the UK’s broader net-zero goals.

This shift not only aligns with global sustainability efforts but could also enhance the reputation of UK farmers as pioneers in green innovation.

From an economic standpoint, hydrogen offers substantial fuel efficiency benefits. Hydrogen-powered vehicles can achieve up to 100% better fuel economy compared to gasoline-powered counterparts, making them a cost-effective alternative in the long run.

For farmers managing large fleets of machinery, hydrogenpowered vehicles could help reduce overall fuel costs, especially as the cost of hydrogen production continues to decrease with advances in technology.

Additionally, hydrogen’s high energy density makes it an ideal fuel for large-scale agricultural operations. Hydrogen-powered trucks, tractors, and other equipment can operate for extended periods without the need for refuelling, ensuring uninterrupted farm activities.

What are the potential challenges?

While the potential of hydrogen in agriculture is promising, there are several challenges that need to be addressed before its widespread adoption.

One of the most significant barriers is the current lack of infrastructure to produce and store low-carbon hydrogen.

Building the necessary infrastructure, including hydrogen refuelling stations and production facilities, will require significant investment and time. Without this infrastructure in place, farmers may find it difficult to transition to hydrogen-powered equipment.

Another challenge is the storage of hydrogen itself. Gaseous hydrogen is much less dense than diesel, making it heavier to store and transport.

This could complicate the logistics of implementing hydrogen-powered systems on farms, particularly for operations that rely on mobile equipment.

Farmers will need to consider the additional space and weight requirements for hydrogen storage tanks, which may increase up front costs.

Speaking of costs, the initial investment in hydrogen-powered

equipment can be prohibitive for many farmers.

Hydrogen technology, while advancing, is still relatively new, and the costs associated with hydrogen-powered machinery can be significantly higher than conventional options.

However, as hydrogen production scales up and technology becomes more affordable, these costs are expected to decrease, making hydrogen a more viable option for farmers.

Future uses

Looking ahead, the future of hydrogen in agriculture appears bright.

In December 2023, the UK Energy Secretary announced a £2 billion investment to support 11 hydrogen production projects, marking a significant step toward a hydrogenpowered future.

In addition to newly designed hydrogen-powered tractors and equipment, older farming machinery could also be retrofitted with hydrogen technology, allowing farmers to transition more smoothly to this clean energy source.

There is also the potential for “hydrogen farms,” where farmers generate their own hydrogen on-site using renewable energy sources like wind or solar power.

This could not only provide a sustainable energy source for farm operations but also create new revenue streams as farmers sell excess hydrogen to the grid or other industries.

Conclusion

Hydrogen-powered agriculture offers a promising path toward sustainability and efficiency in farming.

While there are challenges to overcome, particularly in terms of infrastructure and costs, the long-term benefits of hydrogen in agriculture are undeniable.

With government support, industry collaboration, and continued technological advancement, hydrogen could soon become a cornerstone of modern, sustainable farming practices.

crofting

Scottish Government has to remember that one size does not fit all!

By Donna Smith

Ahead of his visit at SCF’s annual gathering in Stornoway in November, I wrote to the Scottish Government’s Minister for Agriculture, Jim Fairlie MSP, to raise concerns about the newly introduced calving interval condition in the Scottish Suckler Beef Support Scheme and the calving interval conditionality requiring that a calf must be either the first offspring of a cow, or born no later than 410 days since its mother last gave birth. At our roadshows over the year, crofters have repeatedly voiced concerns about the conditionality potentially discriminating against crofters.

Crofters are very often in a situation where they are not fully able to control breeding cycles in the same way a conventional lowland farmer can – for various reasons including heightened exposure to severe weather conditions and the reliance on functioning transport links, including ferries. While this is partly remedied by a higher support rate for calves

born on the Islands, crofters are still in a disadvantaged position if they cannot meet the calving interval condition for reasons beyond their control. Many crofters do not have their own bull but instead rely on hired bulls, either from fellow farmers or crofters, or via the Scottish Government’s Bull Hire Scheme. If a bull does not arrive as scheduled or does not work on the first attempt, this will influence the calving interval without any fault on the crofter’s part.

Given the importance of cattle for environmental outcomes in High Nature Value areas, and the clearly expressed desire of all political parties to better support small producers we will continue to urge the government to revisit our proposal for a small herd derogation for herds up to 10 head for the 2026 claim period. One size does not fit all and we must protect our smaller producers as much as the largest a we enter the new agriculture support system.

New tyre sizes broaden agricultural applications

Continental’s agricultural tyre division has extended the range of its CombineMaster tyres to bring very high flexion (VF) and cyclical field operation (CFO) technology to a wider variety of farm machinery.

“The CombineMaster name disguises the virtues of this tyre to other machines including loaders, tankers and other types of harvesting machines. Originally developed to help combines perform more efficiently in arable crops, the CombineMaster’s CFO and VF technology and unique hexagonal bead core has proved transformative to other agricultural applications,” explains Continental’s Tom Godwin.

The Hexa-bead bead core was developed to help the tyre grip the rim at lower pressures. Some tyres in the range also feature CFO, which offers a 55% load carrying capacity when the tyre is being used in a cyclical condition and operating at or below 10 mph.

“Cyclical means that the load on the tyre is constantly changing which is normal for a combine during harvest but also applies to slurry tankers and other heavy

load carrying machinery,” says Mr Godwin.

VF technology in some sizes of the CombineMaster tyre enables machinery to run at 40% lower pressure than conventional tyres, which has the added benefit of reducing soil compaction.

“The 800/65 R32 tyre is now a popular size for large slurry tankers including the twin and triple axle models with capacities of up to 20,000 gallons,” he adds.

The CombineMaster tyre is also helping some of the largest loaders and articulated loaders such as the JCB TM420 telescopic loader to handle greater loads.

“The Claas Torian can be fitted with 750/65 R26 VF tyres that enable it to carry 40% greater load at the same pressure as a conventional tyre. This additional capacity helps to reduce the time each task takes, which reduces fuel and labour costs,” he adds.

Load carrying capacity has been extended for a variety of harvesting machinery including forage and sugar beet harvesters.

“The 650/57 R32 tyre is well suited to forage harvesters and the 900/60 R38 has been working well with sugar beet harvesters

like the Vervaet self-propelled machines,” says Mr Godwin.

He suggests that many machines can also benefit from onboard air and tyre monitoring systems to help adjust tyre pressure to meet ground conditions and load capacities.

“With grants available for retrofitted onboard air systems and ContiPressureCheck Lite, a wireless tyre pressure monitoring system, operators can reduce soil compaction and improve fuel efficiency,” he concludes.

PFO Technology powers new Trelleborg Tyre sizes for enhanced field performance

In today’s ever-evolving agricultural landscape, where productivity and sustainability are key, Trelleborg Tyres continues to provide innovative solutions to help farmers maximize productivity and protect their fields.

Trelleborg's TM1000 ProgressiveTraction® range expands its offering with over 15 new sizes that incorporate Pressure Field Operations (PFO) technology: a cutting-edge advancement designed to effectively address these challenges.

This innovation elevates field performance by increasing

load capacity at very low working speeds (5-15 km/h). Designed for the most demanding field operations, PFO technology enables tyres to perform exceptionally under

high torque and heavy load conditions while maintaining optimal efficiency. More than just boosting load capacity, PFO allows for a substantial reduction in tyre pressure while carrying the same load, significantly minimizing soil compaction. By protecting the soil structure, this advancement helps ensure longterm agricultural sustainability, reinforcing the value of VF (Very High Flexion) technologies compared to standard tyres.

“At Trelleborg Tyres, we are committed to engineering solutions that not only enhance productivity but also promote sustainable farming practices,”

said Alessio Bucci, Global Product Marketing Director Trelleborg Tyres. “The integration of PFO technology into our TM1000 ProgressiveTraction® range represents an additional step forward in supporting agriprofessionals with tyres designed to handle the challenges of next-generation machinery and modern field operations.”

With the release of these new sizes, Trelleborg Tyres reaffirms its mission to deliver advanced tyre solutions tailored to the needs of today’s farmers. By combining increased load capacity, reduced soil compaction, and exceptional performance at low speeds, the

Samson Agro and Vredestein Tyres collaborate on innovative slurry tanker tyre test

Samson Agro and Apollo Tyres have completed an in-depth tyre test in the Viborg area of Denmark to explore ways to enhance the efficiency of organic fertilizer handling. This collaborative study examined five different sizes of Vredestein slurry tanker tyre, evaluating their impact on fuel consumption, soil compaction, and overall performance in both field and road conditions.

The test was carried out with a Tractor Case Puma 260 CVX with the Samson PG II Genesis tandem axle slurry tanker. The tested tyres were as follows:

Vredestein Flotation Trac 650/55 R26.5

Vredestein Flotation Trac 750/60 R30.5 (reference tyre)

Vredestein Flotation Optimall VF 750/60 R30.5

Vredestein Flotation Trac 800/60 R32

Vredestein Flotation Trac 800/60 R38

range

Tyre diameter effect

The results in the field indicate that upgrading from the smallest Vredestein tyre to the biggest provides substantial gains, with notable improvements in fuel efficiency and reduced soil compaction. Fuel savings of up to 14% were achieved with the largest tyre compared to the reference tyre. The wheel slip reduced significantly (up to 30%) from the smallest tyre to the biggest, although the benefits level-off between the larger sizes. The increased footprint of the larger tyre distributes the tyre load more evenly across the soil, resulting in a soil contact pressure of less than 1.0 bar, which helps to reduce soil compaction and protect the land.

VF vs non-VF

Fuel savings in the field are further strengthened when VF technology is applied, enabling

the tyre to adapt flexibly to varying loads and terrain. Fuel savings up to 8% were achieved with the Vredestein Flotation Optimall VF 750/60R30.5 compared to the non-VF reference tyre of the same dimension.

For operations with substantial road travel, the test showed small differences in fuel use. However, the Vredestein Flotation Optimall VF tyre turned out to be the most economical in the tests.

Benefits of inflation pressure regulation and wheel drive

The test also highlighted the added benefits of tyre pressure regulation using a central tyre inflation system (CTIS), which adjusts pressure between fieldwork and on-road transport to ensure optimal tyre performance. This feature not only enhances soil protection but also

significantly reduces fuel usage, by up to 10%. Additionally, equipping the slurry tanker with wheel drive significantly minimised track depth up to 16% and reducing soil compaction.

In summary, the results emphasise the value of choosing the appropriate tyre. VF technology, wheel drive, and tyre pressure regulation systems further optimise the tyre performance. Wheels with a small diameter can be advantageous with a lot of road transport. Whereas wheels with a large diameter are most advantageous in the field or work with short road transport. These solutions offer clear advantages for both cost efficiency and sustainability, helping farmers and contractors maximise machine performance and avoid soil compaction to safeguard valuable farmland.

TM1000 ProgressiveTraction®

with PFO technology is setting a new standard for agricultural tyres.

Largest mounted tedder and highcapacity rakes from Kuhn

KUHN’s latest 13.4m wide GF 13003 mounted tedder offers operators a high-capacity machine to improve tedding quality that folds compactly behind the tractor to negotiate field gateways.

The innovative design of the GF 13003 means all 12 rotors fold into a 2.99m transport width and a 2.67m transport height, while the tedder features just one gearbox and two hydraulic valves for simple operation. The GF 13003 has joined the equivalent trailed version in the range and the model becomes one of the widest mounted tedders on the market.

Rhodri Jenkins, KUHN’s grassland product specialist, says the model will appeal to a wide selection of farmers: “Improving tedding quality is about ensuring all the grass is lifted away from the sward with no contamination from stones or debris. This can mean slowing down to achieve

this and a wider machine allows operators to cover the ground efficiently but be flexible if the crop requires a slower speed. It also helps improve manoeuvrability in the field compared to a trailed machine.”

It features many proven innovations from KUHN’s current tedder models, such as the Digidrive driveline and rotor housing with maintenance free rotors. Using a tedder with smaller diameter rotors allows a reduced distance between the wheel and tine to limit impurities and ground contact. KUHN’s OPTITEDD rotors offer increased longevity of key working parts. Asymmetrical tines, with a longer outer prong, offer a steeper forage pickup angle to ensure all material is collected and to preserve the sward.

KUHN has also updated its 10231 series rakes with two models – GA 13231 and GA 15231 – and working widths

from 8.4m to 14.7m. Both fourrotor rakes are available with a hydraulic driveline, offering a more consistent rotor rotation speed, quieter operation, and improved machine longevity. An integrated BOOST feature allows the two front rotors to rotate 20% faster than the rear

two for quicker crop transfer to the centre of the machine. Automatic section control has been introduced on the GA models, offering significant reductions in operator fatigue and increased accuracy to avoid forage being moved twice and risking contamination.

McHale ProPel Tedder Range

McHale have been producing a wide range of grassline machinery for over 30 years. During that time, the range of heavy-duty forage equipment has consistently expanded. Building on this reputation, McHale are proud to present the new McHale ProPel range of tedders to the market this year.

The McHale ProPel range consists of three models:

McHale ProPel M6-770 – 6 rotors with a working width of 7.7m (25’3”)

McHale ProPel T8-1020 – 8 rotors with a working width of 10.2m (33’ 6”)

McHale ProPel T10-1260 – 10 rotors with a working width of 12.6m (41’ 3”)

The ProPel tedders are the ideal machines to lift and aerate even the heaviest crops. This results in the best quality fodder in the shortest time. The tedders have proven to be strong, robust machines which are highly efficient and reliable in all terrains. Martin McHale - McHale Marketing & Sales Director said: “The new ProPel tedder range is a welcome addition to our grassline range. The design team have enhanced these machines by adding some nice features which aid the operator such as Rotor Height Adjustment, Rotor Angle Adjustment, and the Headland Management System.”

The McHale ProPel M6-770 is an easily manoeuvrable mounted

machine which features superb ground contouring and stability on the most uneven terrain to provide effective tedding throughout the crop. The McHale ProPel T8 &

T10 Tedders are trailed machines that are fitted with a long carriage frame that connects the tedder to the tractor when in operation and serves as a carrier when in transit.

Putting satellite data in farmers’ hands to improve food security

Harnessing the insights of Earth Observation technologies can help farmers to combat the impact of extreme weather, improving food security worldwide, according to a postgraduate researcher at the University of Leicester.

Fiona Imbali, a PhD student in the School of Geography, Geology, and Environment, is working to encourage farmers in both the Fens area in the East Anglia region in the UK and in West Pokot Kenya to take advantage of the data from cutting-edge satellite technology. As part of this, she is proposing new solutions to give access to the data they need to make their farms more resilient to the impact of climate change.

It comes as a delegation of academics from the University of Leicester travels to COP29, the world’s most important climate and sustainability event, in Baku, Azerbaijan to bring their expertise in climate, sustainability and environmental issues to decision makers.

Extreme weather conditions have significantly hampered food security strategies globally. For farming communities, extreme weather events have led to reduced agricultural yields, especially for those in Sub-Saharan Africa that largely depend on rain-fed agriculture. The Horn of Africa experiences cyclic droughts and the most recent between 2020-2022 was recorded as the worst drought in 70 years according to the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR). Over 20 million people faced food insecurity as the crop yields declined for the third

consecutive year, while lack of water and suitable forage led to the deaths of over 9 million livestock.

The UK is the fifth wealthiest country in the world but is also experiencing rising levels of food insecurity due to extreme weather that has led to crop failures and reduced agricultural productivity. There is a growing concern for household food insecurity which affects approximately 8.4 million people, 10 per cent of the population.

This study aims to explore how Earth Observation technologies such as remote sensing and satellite monitoring for weather predictions and soil moisture assessments can equip farmers with the necessary data to make informed agricultural decisions. Land surface models provide further evidence on the impacts of extreme weather events on agriculture and the environment. Despite advancements in the technology, there are challenges in getting farmers the data that would be useful to them.

One of the project’s key components is the development of a mobile application that provides farmers with real-time weather data, which empowers them to plan their agricultural activities with greater accuracy.

Fiona Imbali, PhD student in the University of Leicester School of Geography, Geology, and Environment, said: “Earth Observation technologies provide a strategic solution to enhance better farming practices but require better strategies for communicating with farmers to allay any

ethical and environmental fears and improve their adoption. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) highlights the importance of working with local communities and respecting their indigenous knowledge for climate governance and this research will be working with indigenous farming communities to develop participatory science communication strategies for the adoption of EO technologies.”

Climate change presents an urgent global challenge that affects millions, exacerbating food insecurity and threatening livelihoods. The IPCC highlights that human activities are significant contributors to the extreme weather conditions that have seen the last four decades being successively warmer than previous ones since 1859.

A 2024 report by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) noted that about 864 million people globally experienced food insecurity in 2023, with Africa being the hardest hit. Over 58 per cent of its population experienced moderate or severe food insecurity.

Women play an important role in agriculture globally and especially in SaharanAfrica but continue to face gender inequalities. They have limited access to climate information and resources while technologies designed to assist them in agriculture inadvertently reinforce gender roles and this limits their effective participation.

Fiona added: “Developers of agricultural technologies rarely

consider women’s challenges, and this often hampers technology adoption. This study will engage communities from the onset of the research to understand their challenges, priorities, as well as their sociocultural perspectives and more so for the women who have always been considered as a homogenous group in order to develop participatory, inclusive communication approaches.”

Professor Heiko Balzter, who is one of Fiona’s PhD supervisors and attended the COP29 climate conference, said: “Fiona’s PhD research investigates an issue that is crucial for humanity – how farming can be made more resilient to climate change impacts. The world is currently on a path towards around 2.7°C global warming. Current national policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions are insufficient to reduce that level. We are seeking to strengthen food security with the help of satellite images. Working with farmers and local communities is key to achieving success in this endeavour.”

Dr Maria Touri, Fiona’s second supervisor, adds: “Farming communities across the world have a wealth of knowledge that is incredibly valuable for addressing global challenges such as food security and food safety. But lack of inclusive communication with these communities often means this knowledge is wasted. Fiona is committed to engaging with farmers in a participatory and dialogic manner and ensure the co-creation of appropriate technologies.”

A trio of trailers to consider M-Tec agricultural Trailers from Kerr and Smith

At M-TEC we are dedicated to pioneering innovative products that enhance the lives of our customers by prioritizing safety and efficiency. The Quadmaster trailer offers a unique side opening gate and step for easy access to and from a quad or lawnmower. Additionally, the robust M-TEC livestock range offers options such as the award-

winning M-TEC Safety Bar which allows for ease of access to the livestock trailer via the inspection doors.

The range of trailers continues to grow with the recent launch of the M-TEC Flatbed. Available in 10FT, 12FT, 14FT and 16FT options, each trailer in the growing range maintains the same exceptional strength and durability.

Whether you’re a family, a business, or a farmer, you can trust M-TEC to deliver

trailers designed to make your work easier, safer, and more efficient.

Next issue out March 2025

Subscription page 25

Agricultural Trailers from Harry West

Here at Harry West (Prees) Ltd design and manufacture is our highest priority to produce high-performance, high-quality tipping trailers for grain, silage and flat-bed trailers.

Our trailers are designed and engineered for maximum efficiency, capacity and wear life, enabling us to deliver a robust and durable product.

All our trailers are designed to provide efficient braking giving you shorter stopping distances and comply with current road regulations. Our prominent LED lights and reflective markers ensure that you are easily seen day or night.

We at Harry West use only the highest quality components for our trailers to ensure that

tipping hoses, hydraulic pipe fittings and LED light clusters provide you with reliable and trouble-free use.

A combination of intelligent design and robust construction gives you a machine that operates effortlessly. Harry West trailers are easy to pull and can be relied on to tow smoothly, making the operators task efficient and pleasurable.

Our monocoque construction and suspension is designed for ease of maintenance, operation and comfort.

Our trailer range is simple and efficient, a machine for all applications and terrain’s.

Sales Director, James Llewellyn commented,” we

can build a trailer to suit our customers specification with numerous options and extras”.

Harry West (Prees) Ltd are ready to make a difference to your work and your farming business. For more information

Ktwo announced at the beginning of 2024, the relaunch of its Warwick Trailer range, marking a significant comeback Ktwo’s

please contact your Harry West dealer today.

If you would like to visit our factory at anytime please contact us on 01948 840465.

www.harrywest.co.uk

Warwick Trailers Range

with a quality range and a commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the market and their customers.

The revamped Warwick Trailers range is the culmination of focused efforts to meet customer demands while providing enhanced support for their dedicated dealership network. Understanding the potential for dealers to offer a comprehensive range of trailers that complement the Ktwo series, this relaunch is a pivotal milestone, breathing new life into the Warwick Trailers brand.

Key highlights of the relaunched Warwick Trailers range include:

Streamlined Range: The relaunched range now offers an expanded selection of trailers, including tipping trailers ranging from 4 to 12 tons, flatbed trailers spanning 18 to 28 feet, 7 and 10 ton drop deck trailers, and dropside trailers varying from 2 to 12 tons, tailored to meet smallerscale agricultural needs.

Quality Build and Finish: Warwick Trailers have been designed to meet the stringent quality standards synonymous with the Ktwo brand. Featuring shot-blasted paint preparation and finished with a two-pack undercoat and a two-pack

topcoat paint, these trailers guarantee durability and an impeccable finish.

The Warwick Trailers range is available for immediate access, get in touch with your local Ktwo dealer or contact Ktwo on 01844 299290. Warwick Trailers welcomes feedback and looks forward to continually evolving the range to align with market demands.

Kerr and Smith are proud to represent M-Tec agricultural Trailers. Our family pedigree goes back fifty years when our founder first started offering mechanical services for commercial vehicles on his father’s farm. Progress involved a Bedford dealership and then added Vauxhall as the manufacturers changed.

Modern times sees us a Vauxhall commercial vehicle Dealer along with KGM (previously SsangYong) supplying Musso Pickups to the farming community. In addition to these business activities, we have been selling trailers for about seven years.

Whilst looking to develop our range of trailers and spending some time talking to new suppliers, M-Tec stood out as a winner in every aspect of engineering excellence and dedication to customer service. Contact us 01290 422440 or 07980 315938

On your next trip back from market, make a point of calling into to view the outstanding range of M-Tec trailers at our site in Cumnock.

Quality of Scottish produce celebrated at Scotland’s Speciality Food & Drink show

Farm shops across Scotland always aim to offer their customers the finest produce but this requires careful sourcing and an innovative selection of products. So where better to find that than at Scotland’s Speciality Food & Drink Show? Set to take place at the SEC in Glasgow from 19-21 January 2025, the event will highlight the innovation, quality, and exceptional flavours that define Scotland’s food and drink sector.

With exhibitor stands filling up quickly, both established and emerging producers are eager to capitalise on the growing demand from delis, farm shops, tourist outlets, cafés, and restaurants

looking to source the very best of Scottish produce. Known for its commitment to quality and provenance, Scotland’s food and drink industry is ready to shine once again at this exciting showcase.

Regional food groups are a highlight of the Show with Orkney and Food from Argyll both taking large, multi-producer stands. Look out for Isle of Mull Coffee, Slàinte Sauces, Isle of

Mull Cheese and Annie’s Herb Kitchen, all from Argyll and rum, seafood, oatcakes, whisky and ice cream from Orkney. New to the Show is Appetite for Angus with producers from this fertile area of Scotland.

Of the 100 plus exhibitors, about a third are new to the Show. In the Launch Gallery for new young companies, visit Foreva Farmers tonics and mixers, 8 Doors Distillery from John O’Groats, Bealach Gin from Invernesshire, Goat Rodeo Goods condiments, Sour Power Vinegars, Brine and Smoke smokehouse from Kinlochard and The Third Sin chocolatier. Beyond these newcomers, producers such as Rise & Grind Roastery, North Uist Distillery, Stylish Whisky, Badachro Distillery and The TeaShed are first time exhibitors.

Existing producers will be launching new ranges and reconnecting with customers –take a look and a taste at Great Glen Charcuterie, Island Larder,

Stewart Tower Dairy, Walkers Shortbread, Edinburgh Honey, Gin Bothy, Ross’s of Edinburgh, Kilted Fudge Co, Angels Dare Cocktails, and The Cress Co distributors.

The 2025 Show is supported by Scotland Food & Drink who will bring some of their members, as well as key buyers. On Tues 21 Jan they will host a panel discussion on The Power of Provenance in Scottish food & drink led by Anne-Laure Farrar in the Talking Shop Seminar Theatre.

The Speciality Food & Drink Show is about more than just discovering new products; it’s an opportunity to learn, grow, and gain valuable insights. Attendees can look forward to an exciting programme of panel discussions, workshops, and masterclasses, including:

• A panel discussion from sustainability experts Think Partnership on SustainabilityShaping the Future of Supply Chains with panel members from Imogen Armstrong from Secret Garden Distillery, Alistair Dobson from Taste of Arran and Arran Ice Cream and Joe Arciero, Business Coach and ex Pernod Chivas Global Category Leader

• Keynote discussion run by the Scottish Tourism Alliance and Visit Scotland on What’s on Scotland’s 2025 Horizon given by Marc Crothall, CEO, STA and Vicki Miller, CEO, Visit Scotland

• A special 1-to-1 interview on the success of a farm shop with Emma Niven of Loch Leven’s Larder

• Understanding your customer from industry expert Andrew Busby from BOXTEC and Founder of Redline Retail

• AI in retail – the future of shopping from Louise Welsby, MD, Buy-From and Chair of National Committee for the Giftware Association

• Practical retailing tips, including masterclasses on AI in retail, top 10 tips for successful social media and

designing with Canva from Business Gateway expert trainers

• ‘Made in Scotland – what does this mean?’ panel discussion with Diageo’s Kirsty Vavasour; Alexnadra Borthwick from Made Scotland, Glen Appin’s Chris Slater and Amy Britton.

Whether you’re looking to sharpen your business skills or discover the latest trends in food retail, the Scotland’s Speciality Food & Drink Show offers a wealth of opportunities for industry professionals.

Catherine Cobb from Cobbs said: “I attend Scotland’s Speciality Food & Drink show most years as it is a great, well organised event. I use this as a good time to catch up with suppliers, see new products and meet potential new suppliers who may catch my eye with their products.”

Sponsored by The Giftware Association, the Best Product Awards will take on a new format this year with a dazzling display of winners in the centre of the Show and a high profile ceremony at the end of the first day of the Show. Judged by industry experts - April Pollock, buyer for Morrisons, Ben Dale from Cairn Lodge Services, Karol Rzepkowski from Victor Hugo delis and Janey Paton from Auchentullich Farm Shop - this is the place to find what’s ‘hot’ in the world of food and drink.

Mark Saunders Show Director adds: “We recognise how key this Show is for fine food & drink outlets across, not just Scotland but the rest of the UK and overseas. Attendees will leave equipped with the knowledge and stock to stay ahead of their competitors. Register now and join us for a memorable and fruitful Show.”

Event Details:

• Event: Scotland’s Speciality Food & Drink Show

• Dates: 19-21 January, 2025

• Location: SEC, Glasgow

• Registration: https://register.visitcloud.com/survey/1mwbxgvpkhrhb

Cattle replace chemicals in trials to control bracken and restore habitats

Farmers are using animals to control bracken without chemicals while saving costs and restoring habitats, in a new field lab with Innovative Farmers.

By trampling bracken, livestock are set to help knock back this invasive species which spreads across grazing land, restricts public access and suffocates other habitats.

In particular, if too dense, it threatens the habitat of the UK’s most endangered butterfly, the High Brown Fritillary, which is present on one of the trial farms.

Many farmers used to manage bracken with the herbicide Asulox, but this is no longer available, so some are now exploring chemicalfree options.

“Obvious nature-friendly solution”

Cattle, pigs and ponies across eight farms in Cumbria, Lancashire and Yorkshire are being encouraged to enter areas of bracken with methods such as strategically placed hay or salt licks.

The animals trample the bracken using their natural body weight, opening up space for other plant species while also damaging the bracken fronds and restricting regrowth. The pigs also root out the starch-rich rhizomes of the bracken from below ground.

Triallist Katharine Pinfold, a cattle farmer at Hudson Place Farm, Cumbria, said: “We have a substantial area of bracken on our fellside which limits the grazing available for livestock as well as general biodiversity. Our farming system is very low input and therefore using our Belted Galloway cattle as a means of controlling the bracken seems to us an obvious nature-friendly solution.

“It is great to be working in a group with other farmers to measure and monitor the impact of livestock on bracken density and growth. We are also excited to see what other plants will emerge over time as the bracken cover recedes.”

Protecting endangered species

In some parts of the country, particularly in the west, bracken stands maintain a woodland ground flora, allowing plants like dog violets to grow which are a key food source for caterpillars of fritillary butterflies.

The trial therefore doesn’t seek to eradicate bracken entirely, but to maintain a balance and “mosaic” of habitats, providing opportunities for a range of biodiversity.

The group of farmers are working alongside conservation experts at James Hutton Institute to monitor changes to habitat. They hope to find a long-term solution that uncovers grazing land while also boosting nature.

Soil health will be monitored, with samples lab-assessed for their carbon and nitrogen contents as well as carrying out visual soil structure assessments.

Field lab researcher Robin Pakeman of the James Hutton Institute said: “This is a great opportunity – we haven’t had

a trial like this for decades. Asulox herbicide could be sprayed over large areas and, if followed up properly with repeat spot spaying, could be very effective. However, it is no longer available, so we have to think differently. Using livestock means we can hopefully manage with more precision to achieve different impacts across a stand of bracken. We’re monitoring the trial closely and hoping for a long-term boost for biodiversity.”

Innovative Farmers Manager Rebecca Swinn said: “We’re excited to see farmers take the lead on this research. Farmers urgently need more ways of managing bracken – this could be a huge opportunity. We hope others follow this trial and are inspired to try these naturefriendly methods.”

For updates and more information on the trial, visit the Innovative Farmers website where results from the field lab will be available open source.

Slurry management

The latest slurry management equipment news… Abbey Machinery Tanks: Maximizing Slurry Potential

Abbey Machinery have been building, developing and enhancing their tanks for many decades. Featuring highperformance Battioni pumps, reinforced chassis, collared dish ends, and advanced pump protection systems, these machines are built for demanding tasks. With 37 models available, ranging from 900 gallons (4000L) to 6000 gallons (27,000L), Abbey offers customisable options, including single, tandem, and tridem axles, ensuring a fit for every farm.

All Abbey tanks are constructed with premium materials such as steel barrels, anti-movement baffles, heavy-duty axles, and patented double trap systems. Abbey’s Super Sprung Drawbar system enhances driver comfort through a parabolic, multileaf spring design.

For precision farming, Abbey offers SMART tanker technology with NIR sensors and ISOBUS compatibility. This allows real-time measurement of nutrients like nitrogen and potassium, enabling farmers to apply slurry precisely where needed, cutting fertiliser use and improving sustainability.

Abbey’s Low Emission Slurry Spreading applicators, including Trailing Shoes, Band Spreaders, and Disc Injectors, ensure precision nutrient delivery while reducing ammonia emissions. The Trailing Shoe, for instance, achieves up to 60% ammonia reduction by placing slurry below the grass surface.

Abbey’s new model Agri Pro comes in a range of sizes ranging from 7.7m to 10.2m

and features a vertical folding system with a spring loaded break-back, chassis mounted, for easy operation. Equipped with a 30-hole distributor, 5” Feed Pipe and 40mm hose.

Abbey Machinery’s Range also includes Muck and AP Side Spreaders which ensure

Weigh

optimal application that promotes healthier, more productive fields. Each machine is designed for precision, ensuring that material is applied exactly where it’s needed, reducing overuse and preventing environmental damage. This precision not only helps to improve crop yield but

also supports more sustainable farming practices by cutting down on the need for chemical fertilisers.

For more information, visit www.abbeymachinery.com or follow Abbey Machinery on Facebook @abbeymachinery and Instagram @abbeymachineryltd.

cells and widebody augers central to TVA range

All Bunning Twin Vertical Auger (TVA) spreaders are available with an application rate controller using weigh cells via Isobus or various Topcon screens, offering users precise manure management and application.

Weigh cells allow the operator to enter a target rate into the controller, which the spreader will then achieve by controlling the floor speed in relation to target rate and the tractor’s forward speed. Weigh cells are a factory fitted

option on all Bunning spreaders, and support with setting up and maintaining the technology is handled by Bunning without the need to involve a third party. An Isobus ECU on the spreader allows integration with compatible

SLURRY MANAGEMENT

screens. Further benefits of weigh cells include detailed recording of every load and the area covered.

There are three Topcon screen options. The entry level ISOCAN offers users application rate control, basic recording of data and variable application from prescription maps. The XD and XD+ screens have sophisticated control of the spreader and the option to integrate with third party systems to display guidance, precision farming and variable rate application from prescription maps.

The Bunning TVA manure spreaders can also be fitted with Widebody augers to increase the spread accuracy of fine products at low application rates. Lowlander models from the 105 TVA up to the largest Lowlander 380 TVA either have the Widebody augers as standard or can have them optionally fitted.

The 865mm (695mm standard) diameter Widebody

augers and optional large 1.1m diameter Boron bottom blades allow TVA spreaders to achieve higher throughput and wider spread patterns for a variety of lightweight products. The slurry door and Widebody augers are

wider than the spreader body to prevent throughput being the limiting factor.

When coupled with a simple rear canopy, the Widebody augers can spread compost, lime, poultry litter and digestate

to accurate widths. The rear canopy prevents material being applied by the full height of the augers and ensures the product is spread via the bottom blades, which improves product consistency.

Harry West Dual Spreader Range

Slurry from housed livestock contains valuable nutrients, phosphate and potash as well as a host of other things that should be recycled back into the land in an environmentally sustainable manner.

Waste is created from cow manure and water and provides a fantastic, natural fertiliser that farmers can use to encourage the growth of grass and many other crops. It can however, create significant pollution to our water and air. Every livestock farm has to deal with waste and with the increasing focus on environmental impact, it’s key that it is managed appropriately.

Introducing the Harry West Dual Spreader range of machines designed as a steel container that holds farm manure and slurry securely while travelling to the spread site.

allowing a low trajectory across the field. This limits the muck from being caught airborne and gives a more even and controlled spread.

A steel door allows metered discharge and is operated hydraulically left to right across the side of the Dual spreaders output rotor.

The rotation of the output rotor forces the manure, under slung, against the machines sprung plate allowing the breakup of the material and

MANAGEMENT

This operation gives a positive spread, of up to 21m, giving excellent coverage on both grass and arable land.

Material is eased down internally onto the feed auger with the standard agitator plate (walking wall) along the full length of the steep sided spreader.

The feed auger pulls the material forward towards the rear of the tractor giving a safer operation, certainty when used on undulating and boggy landJames Llewellyn, Sales Director said; “The Harry West Dual spreader as evolved over a number of years into the allround spreader, working with all types of material in a safe and environmentally sustainable method”.

Please contact your nearest Harry West dealer for further details. www.harrywest.co.uk

New 20-tonne capacity XCEL spreader

New from Hi-Spec Engineering for next year will be a 20 tonne capacity version of the well proven XCEL rear discharge manure spreader.

As with the current 12-tonne capacity XCEL 1250, the new 20 tonne model features the unique, patented, Hi-Spec Chain and Disc spreading system. Compared to

vertical beater bar spreaders, the Hi-Spec Chain and Disc system, which is contained within a fullwidth deflector, has the benefit that it can handle a wider range

of manures. The shredding action of the rotor mounted chains and Hardox steel flails ensures that even the densest of manures are completely broken down prior to being evenly spread by the spreading discs. It also has the benefit that any solid objects which would potentially damage a vertical beater, can pass through.

The new XCEL 2050 features an angled side panel design which widens towards the rear that provides increased internal volume for greater capacity, while also reducing the risk of bridging. Available as an option on the top of each side is a 4-inch plastic square trim to protect the panels when loading. Heavy duty marine grade chains are used to move the contents to the rear of the spreader with the flow rate controlled electronically. Hardox hard wearing plate is used in all the critical wear zones throughout the spreading system for added durability, reliability and minimal downtime.

Having passed through the flail rotor, the broken up manure falls onto the two gearbox driven spreading discs. Both discs have shear bolt protection and are fitted with two spreading vanes. For lighter, dry material such as chicken litter or pellets, sixvane discs are available as an option. Depending on material, the twin spinning discs give an even spreading width from up to 24 metres

As part of its standard specification, the XCEL 2050 has a hydraulic drawbar and is fitted with a wide-angle PTO. To keep compaction to a minimum, it features a tandem steering axle that is fitted with 710/50 R26.5 tyres and air brakes. It also features central greasing for both the driveline and the tandem axle.

To ensure that an accurate application rate can be set and maintained, the XCEL 2050 can be fitted with the ISOBUS compatible RDS Apollo

spreader control system. The required application rate is set and maintained using the Apollo colour touch screen terminal, which also allows work records to be stored, recalled and exported.

Weigh cells in the spreader ensure that the weight of manure in the spreader is constantly maintained and the speed of the heavy-duty chains is also monitored and constantly adjusted to ensure that the correct application rate is maintained, irrespective of forward speed.

Hi-Spec 4000 TD-R tanker

A particular feature of Hi-Spec tankers is the option to be able to have a tanker purpose designed and built to meet the customer’s specific needs, and just such a tanker was on display on the Hi-Spec stand at LAMMA in January.

The high specification HiSpec 4000 TD-R tanker has a capacity of 4,000 gallons

(18,184 litres). This comes as standard with a sprung hydraulic drawbar and commercial sprung parabolic tandem recessed axles, complete with a forced steering rear axle, fitted with 750/60 R30.5 tyres.

The tanker is fitted with a weight transfer system, air hydraulic brakes, a spoon type hitch and electro-hydraulic controls, plus a fixed rear linkage.

FARMING SCOTLAND MAGAZINE

JOSKIN: Excellence for High Productivity

With over 40,000 slurry tankers sold worldwide, JOSKIN is a key reference as regards quality, efficiency and safety. With an extensive range of 9 models and 60 versions, with capacities ranging from 2,500 to 30,000 litres, the company meets every need, from small farms to large agricultural contractors.

Made from hot-dip galvanised high tensile steel, JOSKIN tankers offer exceptional resistance to corrosion. Their innovative design is based on a selfsupporting structure or universal chassis, guaranteeing optimal stress distribution for enhanced manoeuvrability and safety.

Innovation for performance: thanks to a catalogue of 900 options and state-of-the-art spreading implements produced in its own

factories (line spreading booms with or without skids, injectors), JOSKIN optimises fertilisation, while reducing volatile losses

Agricultural Merchants

Main dealers for MAJOR slurry equipment

our website for new and used tractor & machinery stock lists and older model/refurb parts lists www.jandwtaitltd.co.uk Sparrowhawk Road, Hatston Industrial Estate Kirkwall, Orkney, KW15 1GE Tel: 01856 873003 / 872490 Email: info@jandwtaitltd.co.uk

by up to 95%, with equipment adapted to all soil and crop types. These modern solutions increase crop yields while respecting the environment.

As standard, JOSKIN tankers are equipped with advanced technologies: high-performance pumps, safe running gears (bogie, hydro-tandem and hydropendul), braking systems and adapted tyres. These features ensure ease of use and spreading

precision, even in demanding conditions.

This winter, take advantage of an exceptional offer until 31st January 2025: save up to € 7,628 on your slurry tanker with discounts from € 150 to € 250 per cubic metre.

Combine quality, innovation and savings with JOSKIN! Ask your dealer for more information today and turn your farming challenges into opportunities.

Major slurry tankers offer reliability and flexibility

Farm contractors have high expectations for machinery so it’s no surprise to see Major Tankers as their choice equipment. Major tankers stand because of the exceptional design and build: “All our tankers have a separate chassis supporting the barrel, unlike other tankers where the tank and chassis are one unit,” says James Cox of Heyshambased Major Equipment Ltd. “This means 80% of the weight is carried on the tanker’s axle and the remainder is carried on the tractor drawbar. This design

prevents cracking from the stress of pulling heavy loads and for longer distances.”

Major offers four classes of tankers – Agri, Contractor, Alpine, and Tandem – for specific use or requirement. All barrels are produced from 6mm steel and fitted with road safety features including breakaway cable, hydraulic brakes, and rubber buffers on drawbar for easier towing and smoother journeys.

These features are important for John Nurse and

his pig finishing enterprise at Harleston, Norfolk. He uses the 4000-gallon, tandem axle Major Tanker to collect all the liquid waste and surface run-off and recycle it to local farmland to help improve soil fertility.

“Some of my customers are located up to thirty miles away, so road safety specs are very important to me,” begins John. “Manoeuvrability is also a big point – the rear steering axle is an absolute necessity to get in and out of small field gates.”

“I feel I have a very reliable and efficient dirty water management system,” adds John. “The galvanising and robust design of the Major 4000TDM gives me long-term reliability and a lot of flexibility with my customers.”

Low Emissions Slurry Spreaders

Major has three options for precision slurry application. The dribble bar is the simplest system and works well on both grassland and arable crop. The trailing shoe

is optimal for applying slurry in heavy clay soil and works well in grass longer than 8cm in height.

The Major Dribble Bar comes in 7.5m, 10m and 12.5m working widths. The Trailing Shoe comes in 6.4m and 7.5m working widths. Major also offers the TS-Xtreme Trailing Shoe in working widths of 7.5m, 10m and 12m, for use in rough and undulating ground

conditions. All units are fitted with the powerful Vogelsang macerator and are galvanised for extra protection against corrosion. Either system can be used with an existing splash plate.

The 7.5m Dribble Bar and 7.5m Trailing Shoe applicators can be easily retrofitted onto any tanker make or model.

The Disc Injector or shallow

injection system is very effective at returning nitrogen back to the soil. The Major 5.2m Disc Injector combines soil fertilising and furrowing with a working depth from 20mm to 60mm. It works best on short grass swards, placing slurry 5-6cm below the surface.

For more information, visit www.major-equipment.com or call 01524 850501.

Tramspread’s new 1400m hose reeler

Slurry and digestate management specialist Tramspread has added a new larger-capacity random wrap hose reeler to its extensive range, it is designed to handle bigger diameter spools which can comfortably accommodate 1400m of 5” or 1200m of 6” diameter drag hose.

“This introduction is primarily in response to customer demand,” explains Tramspread sales manager James Peachey. “Everything is steadily getting larger, and we had already increased from 600m to 1000m, so we see 1400m as a natural progression. We’ve had requests from the continent, and the first five off the production line have already been sold to France, but it is now available in the UK too.”

To accommodate the larger diameter spools the main frame has been enlarged and strengthened. The three-point linkage frame is also heavier, and the linkage brackets have been lowered to give additional lift height. The heavyduty twin hydraulic motor drive system from the 1000m reeler has been retained.

A new optional light bar can now be fitted above the reel and

encompasses side lights and indicators which operate with the tractor’s lights whilst a remotecontrol fob is used to switch main beam and dip beam headlights and a central worklight bar. This bar also serves as a safety device to stop couplings from potentially damaging the tractor

if the reel is operated too quickly. This new introduction will also be available for the 1000m reeler.

“The larger reeler and spool with 1400m of 5” drag hose weighs around three tonnes, so it needs a tractor of at least 250hp with an appropriate front linkage lift capacity to handle

it properly,” points out James. “We are happy to accommodate customer demands with regard to colour, we recently finished some 1400m reelers in grey for a French contractor. We have also changed the design of the Contractor Trailer to accommodate the larger spools.”

Soil Association approves SlurryForSoil™ for use in organic systems

Sylgen Animal Health is delighted to announce its products, SlurryForSoil™ (SFORS®) and SlurryKing, have been approved for use in organic systems by the Soil Association.

Organic food and farming are defined by law and set out in EU regulations. Any product sold as organic in the UK must comply with a set of production and processing standards. The Soil Association use EU organic regulations as a baseline, but in many cases, are more robust.

“With its ability to enhance quality and quantity of grass

while improving soil health, SlurryForSoil is an exciting new product for use in the organic dairy sector,” explains Sylgen Animal Health director, Geoff Hooper.

SlurryForSoil uses advanced, second-generation microbial technology, with microbes specifically chosen for their abilities to enhance soil and plant health, and productivity. The formula contains 18 different naturally occurring species, all with unique properties. In independent and on-farm trials, SlurryForSoil has proven to offer a return on investment ranging

from 5:1 - 16:1* while reducing farm carbon footprints.

“The fact that the bacteria and fungi in SlurryForSoil scavenge nutrients, and enhance their bioavailability to plants through transportation in soils, it is extremely beneficial for farmers who want to boost grass yield without using synthetic fertiliser,” says Geoff, adding: “Some of SlurryForSoil’s microbes’ also induce systemic resistance, and have been shown to be biocontrols for pathogens, molluscs and insect pests.

The ethos behind SlurryForSoil’s development is aligned with organic principles and regenerative farming. It’s specifically designed for soil and plant health, contains naturally occurring plant growth promotion rhizobacteria and fungi and is formulated to encourage and optimise natural processes and functioning of diverse biological webs.

For more information about the different benefits of SFORS, check out the blog series here: https://sylgenanimalhealth. com/news-and-blogs/

The LGL Agri story

Driven by a passion for farm machinery, particularly grain driers, Lyle founded LGL Agri. With assistance from his son and business partner Gavin, LGL Agri specialises in both new and second-hand grain driers and associated equipment, including conveyors, elevators, dressers, aspirators and trench conveyors.

As the winter nights draws in with last year’s drying now a distant memory, farmers are now planning for their requirements in 2025 and beyond. With 8 to 12 weeks lead ties on many products now is the time to get orders processed.

Many farmers are now trying to automate grain drying systems and make them more efficient be it in reducing labour requirement or drying accuracy. To help them prepare, we turn to Lyle Laird of LGL Agri, who shares his extensive knowledge and provides essential tips to ensure a smooth and successful harvest.

Career path

Lyle originates from a family farm in Fife, creating his deep roots into agriculture. His journey began after graduating from SRUC’s Elmwood College with qualifications in agricultural engineering and advanced tractor mechanics. In 1979, he started an apprenticeship with the leading tractor suppliers A and J Bowens, at their Markinch branch.

Over two decades, Lyle climbed the ranks, gaining plentiful experience in service, sales, and management, culminating in his

appointment as a Director. In 1999 following the merger of Sellars, Bowens, and Frasers under the SBF banner, Lyle continued in management. When Sellars Agri was formed in 2004, Lyle managed the Newbridge depot and became a company Director in 2009, simultaneously earning the role of Director of Combine World Ltd. Reflecting on his role, he said, “Along with the position comes responsibility which can never be underestimated”

After maintaining his role until 2013, Lyle took a brief break before joining T.M Simpson, part time as their Hillend, by Inverkeithing, as branch manager until the business closed in 2019 due to a death in the Simpson family.

LGL Agri

Driven by a passion for farm machinery, particularly grain driers, Lyle founded LGL Agri. With assistance from his son and business partner Gavin, LGL Agri specialises in both new and second-hand grain driers and associated equipment, including conveyors, elevators, dressers, aspirators and trench conveyors.

LGL Agri handles the entire drier installation process from design to completion, including coordinating with electricians, builders, and erectors. Lyle ensures quality by trading with trusted UK brands Perrys of Oakley, Graintek, Alvan Blanch and DryerMaster (Kentra).

He states: “Having worked with these businesses over the years, their quality of service is superior. I rely on them for prompt parts delivery and supporting my ideas. It feels good to support British firms, where possible, that combine traditional designs with modern advancements required for today’s farm production scale.”

Throughout the year, LGL Agri focuses on quoting, designing, and costing systems during autumn and winter, with machinery orders placed by late December for February and March delivery.

Lyle comments: “Assembly of equipment starts as soon as it arrives because July approaches quicker than you realise.”

This schedule aligns with Gavin’s contracting work during peak seasons, keeping the team busy year-round.

RHASS

Lyle also attends the Royal Highland Show and has done for over 40 years. He serves as the BAGMA (British Agricultural and Grass Machinery Association) representative on the RHASS Board. He is very proud to be a Director and be part of such a successful organisation. He takes the position very seriously as RHASS is a charity that supports many aspects of Agriculture. He also won a Silver medal in the Innovations awards for DryerMasters automatic moisture control system

In his spare time he is a beekeeper and also supplies Inverted liquid sugar and fondant from Germany to commercial and hobby beekeepers throughout the UK.

Current work

Recently, LGL Agri installed an Alvan Blanch DF30000 continuous double flow grain dryer at RM and JF Seeds’ Merryhall Farm, Kirkliston. This dryer offers significant fuel savings due to its built-in air recirculation system, which reuses heat from the dryer cooling section. It also features

the unique DryerMaster 510 which controls the dryer output to maintain a set moisture. The system can be controlled from its dedicated screen or via a smart phone. The system can run in manual or automatic mode and adjustments can be made via a smart phone. The DryerMaster 510 was added to free up labour, save fuel/electric and give a consistent moisture reading culminating in more weight of grain to sell and less running cost. Complementing the dryer, Lyle and Gavin integrated Perry of Oakley conveyors and elevators capable of handling up to 60 tonnes per hour, based on wheat at 750kg/m³. The conveyors boast heavy-duty specifications of 5mm thick base and 3mm thick side walls, with thicker options available, plus reliable 90-degree direct drive gears, and durable steel plate chains which carry a breaking strain of up to 34.3kN.

A new Alvan Blanch DF25000 has just been delivered along with new Perry elevators etc for the 2025 season to a customer near Stirling with installation work commencing in January. The system includes 9m of trench

conveyor and a Dryermaster 510 automatic moisture controller.

Pre-harvest checklist

Drier -

• Blow out all compartments within the grain dryer with a compressor. Clean out any choked slats in tray dryers and check above the laterals in tower dryers for debris.

• Inspect all electrical wiring for rodent damage and blow out all motors.

• Check fuel line for damage and replace fuel filter(s).

• Examine all bearings for wear and damage, replacing as necessary. Grease bearings if applicable.

• Check all chains and belts for tension, adjusting as necessary. Consult the relevant maintenance book for details.

• Run the dryer with the burner off, ensuring all operations work correctly.

Conveyor –

• Test all wet grain elevators, conveyors, and machinery, removing debris.

• Repeat the process for drying grain elevators, conveyors, and machinery.

• Verify all chains and belts for tension and running true, adjusting as necessary. Inspect bearings for wear and grease as required.

• Ensure all elevator cups and conveyor slats are intact, replacing as required.

• Check all ducting and bends for wear, repairing or replacing as necessary.

Final

checks

• Run the system at a low capacity to polish grain-contacting surfaces. Once smooth and shiny, the dryer can operate at full capacity.

• Ensure the burner flame is straw-coloured. If not, burner adjustments or nozzle replacement may be required. Consult a qualified engineer if unsure.

• Follow the operator’s manual for maintenance and adjustment of ancillary equipment like dressers and aspirators.

If no maintenance book is available:

• Adjust conveyor chains so the paddles can be twisted in the

direction of the chain by no more than 40 degrees, or the chain can just be moved by hand sideways over the end idler sprocket teeth.

• Elevator belts usually have an adjuster bolted to the belt that can be turned to tighten the belt.

• Use a tool that fits the adjuster and tighten by hand strength only. Some manufacturers use an external adjusted.

• Check the back of the belt for delamination (belt layers coming apart). Replace with a new belt if serious.

• Ensure the belt runs in, or nearly, the centre of the top and bottom pulleys. Adjustments can typically be made to both top and bottom shafts to rectify any issues.

Maintenance/ops books can generally be emailed to you by the manufacturer. By adhering to this checklist, farmers can ensure their grain drying systems are in optimal condition for the harvest season. You can contact Lyle Laird on: 07585 120351

Organiser behind Scotland’s largest mid-harvest tractor run 2024 receives ‘The Doddie Champion Award’

Annie Kenyon of Annie Kenyon Architects Ltd has received the ‘Doddie Champion’ Award at the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation Anniversary Dinner, which took place last Thursday 28 November. Annie has been recognised for her boundless efforts in raising money to find a cure for Motor Neurone Disease (MND), since she lost her mum to the disease in 2021.

“It is an absolute honour to receive The Doddie Champion to recognise my efforts - however it really is a team effort and I’m so thankful to the amazing people that got involved,” said Annie.

Earlier this summer, Annie was one of the lead organisers of ‘Sandy Duffus’s Tractor Run’, alongside Kim Tedcastle and Chris Powell of CC Powell Ltd. Together, with the loan of the Doddie iCON (a tartanwrapped JCB tractor), they set out to raise as much money as they could for the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation. They successfully raised an incredible £80,069 which will be used by the Foundation to better understand this devastating disease and find a cure.

The tractor run was held in support of Sandy Duffus - a well-known and respected man

amongst the northeast agricultural community, who was diagnosed with MND at the start of the year. Over 250 tractors followed Sandy as he drove the Doddie iCON, leading the march from Turriff to Inverurie on the 14 August. A week prior to the event, Annie and the team presented the same tractor in the main ring at the annual Turriff Show – creating awareness of MND and encouraging showgoers to donate to the Foundation.

“Seeing all the farmers come out and support the tractor run that day was utterly amazing – it truly demonstrates what a supportive community we have. I hope that the awareness created makes a noticeable difference towards finding the cure,” comments Sandy Duffus.

“May I encourage everyone to support the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation – as the money raised goes directly into the research that aims to find the cure. A huge thank you to all those who donated, attended the tractor run, and to the organisers behind the scenes for bringing the event to life.”

Kenny Logan, Scottish rugby player and former teammate of Doddie Weir said, “it was fantastic

to see the Aberdeenshire farming community rally round for Sandy and to raise such an incredible amount for the Doddie Foundation this summer. The more awareness and funds raised, the closer we can get to finding a cure.”

For more information on Motor Neurone Disease, and to get involved in raising funds the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, visit their website here: https://www. myname5doddie.co.uk

Student graduation, new apprentice induction and Ofsted praise for CLAAS Apprenticeship Programme

Recent weeks have seen CLAAS congratulating the latest group of apprentices to complete their 4-year CLAAS Apprenticeship Programme, while at the same time welcoming the 30 newest

students at the start of their training. This also coincided with the publication of the first full Ofsted inspection of the CLAAS Apprentice training programme based at the CLAAS

ACADEMY at Saxham, in which they were highly rated for the training programme.

CLAAS is the only UK machinery manufacturer as a registered apprenticeship training provider to deliver a specific in-house apprenticeship under one roof. This year's new intake of apprentices saw 30 students from 15 dealerships throughout England, Scotland,

Annie Kenyon receiving The Doddie Champion Award at the My Name'5 Doddie Foundation Anniversary Dinner 2024

Wales and Ireland welcomed to the CLAAS ACADEMY for the start of their 4-year training programme, studying for a Level 3 Apprenticeship Standard in Land-Based Service Engineering Technician.

This Autumn also saw the latest cohort of 19 students complete their studies and graduate from their apprenticeship as fully qualified CLAAS service engineers. Their graduation marked the end of an era as it included the last cohort of students to complete their training at Reaseheath College as next year will see the first students graduate from the inhouse CLAAS ACADEMY training programme based at Saxham.

Harbro Country Stores Scoops ‘Multiple Store of the Year’ Award

Harbro Country Stores has been awarded the title of 'Multiple Store of the Year' at the National SQP Awards.

The National SQP Awards are staged annually by Over the Counter magazine and Lewis Business Media Arts to recognise excellence and best practice in the animal health and welfare industry.

This industry-leading award is testament to the knowledge and dedication of Harbro’s in store fully qualified Registered Animal Medicines Advisors (SQPs), and further reinforces Harbro’s mission to be a destination for excellent service, knowledge and advice on all animal health matters.

“Our commitment to having Registered Animal Medicines Advisors (SQPs) in every store means we can support all our customers with their animal health needs as well as providing expert nutritional and feeding advice. Our team cover livestock, horses, hens and pets, so there is a big individual commitment from every member of the team

for their dedication

customer service” commented Allan Bain, Retail Director.

Allan Bain collected the award, at the event held in London along with members of the Harbro Country Stores team

Tackling virtual fencing: Rob Wainwright and Monil

Rob Wainwright is a farmer on the Scottish Island of Coll in the Inner Hebrides. Once the Captain of the Scottish Rugby Union team, winning 37 caps for his country and also appearing for the British and Irish Lions, he now spends his time managing his mixed farm on the remote isle.

Rob’s farm spans approximately 4,500 acres, with around 450 sheep and a herd of 80 Luing cattle. Around half of that acreage is actively farmed and much of the remainder is inaccessible ground. For the last five months, he has been using a virtual fencing solution from Monil to help control where the cattle graze.

What were your first thoughts on Monil’s virtual fencing and how has it affected your plans?

“When I first heard about virtual fencing, I immediately saw the benefit – and the potential,” says Rob. “It’s been great for us on the farm, which is predominantly rough pasture, and I imagine it will be transformational for dairy farmers too.

“The experience with the collars has led us to plan an increase to our herd strength, with the increased controllability and tracking meaning that we will be able to open up more acreage that is currently not farmed due to issues with accessibility.”

How have you evolved your farming practices through the collars?

“I’m not averse to technology, but other than the collars, I keep things relatively simple; I farm with my quad bike, my collies and now with my mobile phone as well. Adding the virtual fences through the app means I don’t have to worry about physical fences as much – the cost saving is incredible. At first, I would set up pastures as I moved the cattle to them. Now I keep all the previous pastures on the app too as we’ve found that we can return the cattle to a grazed area after a couple of months and benefit from a second grazing period.

“We’ve been very impressed with the technology which is being continually developed but is already very adaptable. We were aware of stories in the farming community of other systems where battery life can be a real issue, but with Monil’s collars and their top-mounted battery pack and solar cell we haven’t had a problem. The lowest battery percentage indicator we’ve seen was in the low to mid 70s during the training of the more stubborn individuals in the herd. In normal operation, we don’t usually see them drop below the mid 90s. We will see how they fare over the winter, but given performance so far, I’m confident that they will be okay.

“The software and mobile app are also very good and easy to use. We’re in regular contact with the team at Monil and to date they have implemented nearly all of our suggestions and requests for tweaks. They’re quick to come back to us when we raise questions and we’ve found the establishment of exclusion zones within the app particularly useful.

“We’re hoping to introduce a number of small coppice areas to improve biodiversity, and the ability to create permanent exclusion zones around them makes the project viable. The costs associated with erecting physical fences to otherwise protect these areas would have made the project too expensive, so that’s a real plus in my book. The exclusion zones are also vital to prevent the cattle accessing potentially dangerous areas.”

And how was the training period?

“Some individual animals have been a problem, that’s for sure,” says Rob. “Pretty much all instances of breakout have been instigated by a limited number of cows, and the rest will then follow. But in nearly every breakout incident, the goal has been a broken physical fence within sight, through which greener grass is visible and has proved too much of a temptation – the grass has quite literally been greener on the other side.

“In reality, the training wasn’t too hard. We were sceptical at first, and as it turns out, we had started with the more obstinate cows which made the process a little harder. But we persevered and once we also had the collars on the better-behaved cows, things got a little easier.

“We’ve noticed that there are still some individuals who trigger the overwhelming majority of breakouts, and we have queried with the technical team at Monil as to whether the alarms are operating correctly. The telemetry from the collars has proved that the impulses are triggering correctly, so we’re looking into whether the cues can be adjusted to improve the effectiveness on these individuals.”

What do you see as the primary benefits of virtual fencing?

“We’ve worked this farm for 25 years now, and many of the fences are getting tired and would be in need of expensive and timeconsuming repair. The ability to erect virtual fences takes a great deal of pressure from ageing fence stock, and means we can target our available resources to where they will make the greatest difference.

“Although we’ve not yet been through a calving, we expect to see a tighter calving pack because we have greater control over the animals. Additionally, with the wide area associated with hill grazing on our farm, the ability to locate a cow if we are expecting it to calve could potentially improve outcomes in difficult situations. We’ve actually already used the tracing app to locate an injured cow on the hill. Without the app, locating them and getting them swift treatment would have been very hard.

“Rotational grazing has to be right up there in the benefits list. The second phase of grazing and better quality of hill grasses has been exceptional and makes a real difference. Mob grazing is also a strong benefit, and with the associated improvements to soil quality and herd health, this makes a very strong case for virtual fences. We have some excellent videos showing the impact on bracken; with good pasture below the bracken, in just 24 hours, the cows flattened the bracken over a large area to access the grass – again, this will be key to improving the biodiversity on our farm alongside the use of exclusion zones around our newly coppiced areas.

“Finally, going back to our plans for the introduction of coppiced areas. Increasing biodiversity is incredibly important and will be much easier to accomplish now we can create exclusion zones around saplings as they grow. Without these zones, we would have to erect physical fences on difficult terrain at significant cost and effort, so that’s a big plus for me and for the environment.”

NFU Scotland

Message from the President

It is incredible that 2025 is here and I will be stepping down in February from a position that I have been honoured to hold over the past four years.

After joining NFU Scotland’s Less Favoured Area Committee in 2009 to represent East Central region and being convinced by others to keep going to my current position, I simply do not know where the last 15 years have gone.

There have been some real challenges during that time and there will always be challenges in the future. While we rarely get all we lobby for on behalf of all Scotland’s farmers and crofters, what is absolutely clear is that without NFU Scotland leading and standing up for our industry at critical times, Scottish farming and crofting would be in a very different place.

So, what is round the corner?

Well, I am an eternal optimist, and I will remain in that mindset despite some attempts to knock that out of me. I absolutely believe that what we do, not only as the producers of fantastic, worldrenowned food but also as the original caretakers of our land, means that we have a very bright future in front of us.

There are many reasons for my optimism.

First and foremost, we have consumers who are increasingly supportive of our farmers and crofters and

recognise the importance of our industry. We are building on this by putting pressure on our retailers through our upgraded ShelfWatch campaign which shines a spotlight on what is available on all supermarket shelves.

This has not only made our retailers sit up and take note, but it has also highlighted some serious flaws in the labelling system. That is an issue which we have identified and will progress with Governments north and south of the Border.

Speaking of governments, it is always a challenge highlighting to our elected representatives what our industry is all about and what all it delivers. That said, the penny is dropping at a Scottish Government level on how important we are, not only from a food production point of view, but from an economic one.

The recent Scottish budget did not deliver on all our asks, but it did deliver on the key direct support schemes vital to Scottish agriculture and the return of previously deferred unallocated money from the agricultural budget that will turn into much needed capital spend for the industry.

In my mind, from 2025 onwards, Scottish agriculture has a bright future provided we continue to talk it up and embrace change that will benefit all of society for so many reasons.

www.nfus.org.uk

Martin Kennedy, President NFU Scotland

NFU Scotland calls for electronic identification of cattle to be in place by January 2026

NFU Scotland is calling on the Scottish Government to publish the results of its consultation on Cattle Identification and Traceability and to set a date for the introduction of UltraHigh Frequency (UHF) Bovine Electronic Identification (bEID).

Discussions on bEID for Scottish cattle are now more than two decades old and the Union is clear that years of industry discussion, lobbying, research and development must now lead

to the introduction of bEID in Scotland by January 2026.

In its response to the recent consultation, NFU Scotland’s key asks were:

UHF technology should be adopted for bEID introduction in the interest of enabling innovation in the cattle sector,

A clear, comprehensive timetable should be published to illustrate the phased introduction of bEID, including the removal of paper passports.

Introduction of an online holding register to streamline inspection processes.

Speaking earlier this year at NFU Scotland’s Autumn Conference and again AgriScot, Scottish Minister for Agriculture and Connectivity Jim Fairlie MSP noted Scottish Government’s preference for UHF. NFU Scotland is now looking to the Scottish Government to commit to the introduction UHF bEID tagging for calves from January 2026 onwards.

It has also called on Defra to back UHF bEID, underlining the extensive research and trials undertaken by ScotEID on more than 400 farms, as well as a number of livestock markets and abattoirs across in Scotland. Recently the Scottish bEID Stakeholder Group, currently chaired by NFU Scotland President Martin Kennedy, wrote to Minister of State at Defra Daniel Zeichner MP to underline its position.

Organisations say we must hit pause on

‘devastating’ suckler beef calving interval proposals

Scotland’s smallest herds with fewer than 30 cows, which make up almost half (49%) of all beef holdings and 10.3% of total breeding dams, could see potential funding reductions of £241,240, the loss of one and a half livestock marts and a large abattoir.

This is the warning in an analysis of the proposed amendment to the Scottish Suckler Beef Scheme which seeks to add a 410-day calving interval addition. The Scottish Sucker Beef Support Scheme Briefing (SSBSS) Report (December 2024), authored by Neil Wilson, Executive Director of IAAS, is issued today by the Institute of Auctioneers and Appraisers in Scotland (IAAS), the National Beef Association (NBA) and the Scottish Beef Association (SBA).

Speaking on behalf of IAAS, which represents Scotland’s livestock auction marts, NBA and SBA, Mr Wilson says: “We seek a pause to the current course of action to allow all impacted stakeholders to

reconvene with Government to agree a more suitable way forward. This will allow us to understand the Business and Regulatory Impact Assessment carried out for this policy update. If we do this at pace, we can still achieve a policy outcome during

The consequence of these changes will have far-reaching, and seemingly politically unconsidered implications, Mr Wilson adds: “Calving interval conditionality is a metric driven

criterium that aims to target poorer performing herds, but its introduction could have a damaging ripple effect along the whole red meat supply chain that would undoubtedly lead to consolidation and closures of marts and meat processors.

2025 from this vital beef sector support scheme.”

Brenntag Specialties announces exclusive distribution agreement with Pathway Intermediates for ‘Lipidol’

Animal Nutrition supplements in Europe

Brenntag, the global market leader in chemicals and ingredients distribution, today announced a new and exclusive distribution agreement between Brenntag Animal Nutrition and Pathway Intermediates, the leading European manufacturer of absorption enhancer in Animal Nutrition. The agreement is for the distribution of Lipidol, the first absorption accelerator for the Animal Nutrition industry

in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE), Benelux and Nordic.

The Lipidol range, the world’s first absorption accelerator, contains highly concentrated functional Lysophopholipids. Lipidol accelerates nutrient absorption, thereby enhancing livestock performance and minimizing nutrient and energy losses in the feed. This new agreement is the next step building on the

extensive experience gained in the cooperation between the companies in CEE with the Lipidol range since 2014.

Wouter Vullings, Director Brenntag Animal Nutrition EMEA, states: “We are looking forward to expanding our longterm collaboration in CEE towards the Benelux and Nordic region. Pathway Intermediate’s

Lipidol range complements Brenntag’s existing Animal Nutrition portfolio of performance enhancers. This agreement supports our longterm strategic goal to expand our presence as a leading Animal Nutrition solutions and ingredient supplier in the Animal Nutrition and Pet Food industries in the EMEA region.”

Laying hens doing a cracking job helping young farmer plough his own furrow

Joining Farmlay as a contract producer has helped a young Scottish farmer transform a modest acreage into a profitable concern.

Like generations of farmers’ sons before him, Ross Learmonth was determined to “stand on my own two feet” and attempt to make his own living away from his family’s farm near Ellon, in Aberdeenshire.

He would be the first to admit he was lucky to have a headstart in this endeavour in the form of his grandparents’ 80-

acre holding, from his mother Shirley’s side of the family.

“I’d been working away with a few sheep but was determined not to ‘play farms’ and started looking for something that would enable it to become a viable business in its own right,” explains 29-year-old Ross.

After graduating from Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) with a first-class honours degree in agriculture Ross, then aged 21, went to work for Scottish nutrition company Harbro.

“I was originally interested in pigs but through the day job found out more about hens and went cap-in-hand to speak to my banker. I was also successful in securing some young farmers’ start up grant funding to help buy and relocate some secondhand poultry buildings. In the interim we set about organic conversion, as this was where the opportunity was with local egg packer, Farmlay. The first 4,000 organic birds arrived in 2017.

“I soon realised that I was not able to give the day job as much commitment as I would like but also that 4,000 birds weren’t going to be enough,” explains Ross. “So, having left my job and with another production opportunity presented I set about extending the unit to 10,000 birds for spring 2018.”

The hens enabled Ross to secure the finance to buy a neighbouring 150-acre farm and meanwhile Ross’s father Eric and uncle Iain - who farm around

1,100 acres in partnership - felt the time was right for them to look at diversifying their cattle and combinable crop operation. So a share-farming agreement was drawn up, in which they own the purpose-built shed that went up on their land, but Ross takes care of everything else. 12,000 birds are housed on this site, with the muck being used on Ross’s organic cereals.

“Home mixing allows the inclusion of home-grown organic crops in our split fed rations, completing the cycle,” explains Ross.

While Ross is happy with his own holding’s organic status, it soon became obvious that freerange could be a good option at his father’s farm. So, earlier this summer, 16,000 free-range birds arrived after the construction of another new shed.

“We managed to go from steel up, to birds housed in less than 10 weeks, a credit to everyone involved,” reports Ross.

A cut of QMS’s latest highlights

From Thainstone to Paris, find out about Quality Meat Scotland’s (QMS’s) recent activity to raise the profile of Scotch Beef, Scotch Lamb and Specially Selected Pork:

1. International exports: it was fantastic to return to SIAL Paris in October; the world’s largest food innovation exhibition. The global red meat supply chain was drawn to our eye-catching stand; showcasing the exceptional quality, sustainability and value of Scotch Beef, Scotch Lamb and Specially Selected Pork. Our preevent survey highlighted the record-breaking commercial success of international exports between August 2023-July 2024, with the total value of Scotland’s red meat and offal sold outside of the UK reaching £137 million – surpassing £100 million for the first recorded time.

2. Community engagement: following the launch of our popular Meat Voucher Scheme, Tasty Little Weeks have returned. First up was Tasty Little Pork Week, celebrating the versatility and nutritional benefits of Specially Selected Pork to school pupils in Scotland. Tasty Little Weeks spotlight one type of red meat protein at a time, promoting their nutritional benefits and role in a healthy balanced diet. Tasty Little Lamb Week coincided with St Andrews Day and Tasty Little Beef Week will run in the new

year. The first of the new Scotch Ambassador sessions, supporting our wider reputation work to promote the benefits of our brands, was delivered by ‘Shepherdess’ Anna MacKinnon to more than 50 student teachers at Perth University of the Highlands and Islands.

3. Industry hot topics: a week after the UK Government Budget, Monitor Farm Scotland, with Johnston Carmichael, Virgin Money and Shepherd and Wedderburn, brought the issue of family farm succession to the fore in a life-changing performance. ‘Succession, Finance, Legal Rights and Tax Planning: A Play’featuring a round-the-table discussion with a banker, solicitor and accountant with a farming family in the middle - was well engaged with.

At AgriScot, we launched ‘Field Talk’, a new podcast broadcasting the Monitor Farm initiative with ‘Rural2Kitchen’ host, Wallace Currie. Each episode is for farmers, discussing business progress and challenges, and highlighting tools and knowledge to support industry listeners in a fast-changing landscape – tune in. This is just a snapshot of our delivery for Scotland’s red meat sector, and there’s more to come before the year is out. Keep updated at qmscotland.co.uk, follow @qmscotland on social and sign up to our weekly newsletter.

New livestock ear tags set to lower cost of data capture

Livestock management platform, iLivestock, has launched a new range of affordable sheep and cattle ear tags to bring down the cost of effective farm data capture.

The eTag range, developed in partnership with Allflex MSD, will offer guaranteed low price ear tags to the UK market.

Ewen Wardman, iLivestock CEO, says: “iLivestock subscribers will be able to access eTags for up to 25% less than the average market price, with no compromises on quality.

“For example, the average pair of sheep breeding tags cost around 99p, while ours will retail at just 79p, making substantial cost savings for a flock or herd,

even when purchasing smaller numbers of tags.”

To mark the launch, the first 250 new subscribers to the iLivestock platform can choose a set of up to 200 sheep breeding tags or 100 cattle new run pairs. As an added bonus, every order will receive a free tag applicator.

Mr Wardman says launching the new tag range joins the dots in iLivestock’s comprehensive data collection and management package of software and hardware.

“We want to make it more affordable and accessible than ever for farmers to benefit from farm data use, to drive production gains at a time when margins are being squeezed tighter than ever,” he adds.

“While sheep ear tags are compulsory, all too often they’re only used for the bare minimum movement records, but when teamed with our solutions, they can be used for so much more.”

Helen Sheppard, identification support lead at Allflex MSD, says the eTag range will provide a unique identification for

the data behind each animal, allowing farmers to manage their stock with precision.

She adds: “The collaboration with iLivestock is the perfect fit; we know their solutions will help farmers maximise the value of our tag technology, helping deliver returns on investment through enhanced productivity and management ease.”

Don’t overlook

calf hygiene in fight against scours

Beef and dairy farmers are being encouraged to develop calf hygiene protocols as part of efforts to prevent scours in their youngstock.

Dr Tim Potter, senior clinical director of Westpoint Farm Vets, part of the VetPartners group, says ensuring a good level of hygiene is vital for preventing disease in calves.

“Scours remains the leading cause of morbidity and death in calves under one month of age and accounts for roughly 50% of all calf deaths in the UK,” adds Dr Potter.

“It can be caused by a number of different pathogens including

Salmonella, E. coli, rotavirus, coronavirus or cryptosporidiosis.

“No matter which pathogen is involved, it is always transmitted by faecal oral transmission; this highlights the importance of maintaining good hygiene to try and break that cycle of infection.”

He says there is wide-spread understanding of the importance of getting sufficient, good quality colostrum into calves as quickly as possible after birth – however, poor hygiene often undoes this good work.

“On many farms, there is room for improvement in

the hygiene practices around the collection and feeding of colostrum, as well as the feeding of milk or milk replacer,” adds Dr Potter.

“Studies have shown that high levels of bacterial contamination of feeding equipment are enhancing the spread of pathogens among calves, and farm hygiene practices aren’t what they should be.”

As an example, he says one study found only 21% of farmers are cleaning colostrum collection equipment after every use, and less than half are using hot water to clean it.

Dr Potter recommends working with your vet to carry out a hygiene assessment and develop a hygiene protocol so all staff know exactly how to clean equipment – including details of water temperature and the disinfectant required – and how to dry and store it.

“For farms which are calving animals and feeding colostrum, the protocol needs to start with the collection and storage of the colostrum and then move onto how it is fed to calves and all subsequent milk feed preparation and administration equipment,” adds Dr Potter.

FARMING SCOTLAND

Scrupulous biosecurity a must in wake of new AI cases

Defra has raised the avian influenza (AI) risk level for poultry farms with suboptimal biosecurity measures to 'medium, with low uncertainty’, prompting urgent calls for UK poultry producers to tighten protocols to protect their birds.

With migratory bird patterns expected to heighten the risk of AI cases this winter, it is vital to ensure all biosecurity measures are robust and strictly followed.

Julian Sparrey, Group Technical Director at Livetec Systems, says one of the highest risk points for disease entering a shed is via human movement.

“Most know that human biosecurity is crucial, but it’s got to be done properly, or

there’s no point in doing it at all,” he says.

“You can’t just wash your boots down in disinfectant, you need to change into clean boots and overalls, without contaminating them in the process, to be effective.”

Bird and rodent proofing is also an essential process to minimise the risk of contamination.

Mr Sparrey says most producers put one inch mesh on all shed entry points during the outbreaks in 2022, but he advises these are checked for damage, as they are likely to have deteriorated over time.

“Even if wild birds aren’t infected with the disease, they

can be carrying it on their feet or feathers, the same goes for rodents, so it’s imperative to do everything in your power to stop them accessing sheds,” he says.

“It’s obviously harder for free-range producers to eliminate these risks altogether, but you can still take precautions.

“For example, I’d urge farmers to discourage wild birds

from landing on sheds – use spike strips and deterrents on roofs to put them off perching.” He also suggests not only looking at working to eliminate puddles and standing water on the range, but also in farmyards, as the AI virus can survive in cold water for up to 100 days, and easily be transported into sheds by wildlife or humans.

Improvements to farm animal health can help tackle global challenges

Collaborative efforts to improve the health of farm animals across the globe can have a positive impact on food security and environmental sustainability.

That is the key message in animal health company Elanco’s latest environmental, social, and governance (ESG) report for 2023.

The report outlines progress the company has made in four key areas – animals, people, planet, and enterprise – as it

strives to ensure the well-being of animals while promoting the overall health of the planet.

Polly Davies, UK monogastric business leader at Elanco, says good animal welfare is integral to the sustainability of global communities.

“Through collaboration with customers, suppliers, stakeholders, and employees, Elanco is proving that healthier animals can positively impact on major issues such as environmental sustainability, food security, mental health, and social isolation,” explains Ms Davies.

“As a trusted partner in animal health, we’ve taken significant strides to ensure the well-being of animals while promoting the overall health of our planet. This year’s ESG report highlights our dedication to these principles.”

Ms Davies says examples of Elanco’s progress include expansion of its portfolio of antibiotic alternatives and educational programmes for farmers – both of which contribute to food security and animal health – and continued use of its Health Tracking System (HTSi) by more than 11,000 poultry producers across the world.

“The HTSi programme helps the broiler industry capture and monitor specific health and welfare indicators, enabling them to make timely, databased management decisions to improve bird health, welfare and performance,” adds Ms Davies.

Ms Davies explains the UK business has been awarded the ‘Investors in the Environment’ silver award.

“This is for efforts to measure and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, reduce use of unsustainable resources and for responsibly managing our waste.”

She says other achievements during the year include partnering in the launch of a new carbon marketplace to help farmers monetise their emissions reductions, 91% of all waste generated by the company being reused or recycled, and the launch of a sustainable packaging guideline.

The VET Colostrum Quality in Suckler Herds

Calves are born with virtually no immunity and are therefore vitally dependent on their mother’s colostrum, from which they absorb the life-saving infection-fighting antibodies. Calves must receive a sufficient quantity of adequate quality colostrum within an appropriate timeframe, or they will suffer from Failure of Passive Transfer (FPT) and be highly susceptible to infections, resulting in a significant knock-on impact on their lifelong productivity.

A recent study by Northvet looking into colostrum in our Orkney suckler herds showed that 39% of calves had FPT, highlighting the concerning prevalence of colostrum problems.

As a general rule, calves should receive 10-15% of their bodyweight in colostrum within the first 6 hours of life. In suckler herds, it can be more challenging to manage the quantity of colostrum received, apart from closely monitoring and providing supplementation where necessary. Therefore,

By Balfour S Hay BVMS MRCVS

ensuring colostrum is of adequate quality is particularly important.

The quality of colostrum produced by cows is directly dependent on their nutritional status in the run-up to calving. Even if cows are in ideal body condition, the final 6 weeks of pregnancy is the time of greatest foetal growth and therefore their ration may not be able to meet their protein & energy requirements, even if it was able to previously. Having your vet perform metabolic blood profiles on a sample of cows 3-4 weeks before calving allows assessment of whether their current ration is meeting protein, energy, and trace element requirements, allowing appropriate adjustments to be made in accordance with forage analysis.

At calving time, colostrum quality can be directly assessed by adding only one drop to a brix

refractometer (0-30% scale) which is an inexpensive and easy-to-use tool. Colostrum with a brix reading of >22% is generally regarded to contain an adequate concentration of antibodies to provide a calf with passive immunity, provided it consumes a sufficient quantity within the correct timeframe. Brix readings of <22% indicate poor quality colostrum.

After calving, we can then “ask the calves” if their colostrum has been adequate. This involves a quick and inexpensive blood test performed on a sample of calves between 1 and 7 days old, which your vet can analyse in-house. This can easily identify cases of FPT, highlighting colostrum problems on-farm.

Colostrum really is the key to getting our calves off to a healthy start, providing the resilience needed to grow into productive stock. If you have concerns about your farm’s colostrum, contact your vet for further advice.

sheep

5 top tips for indoor lambing

Wisdom and paws for thought

By Peter Myles, NSA Scotland Chairman

I had a long chat with my dog the other day, telling him the pressing issues causing concern right now, seeing his innocent face belies the wisdom underneath. Aye, with just a look from “Shug the Dug” he can suggest solutions to all sorts of problems, and a well-placed paw can make me think again. It’s important to get things off your chest with someone you can trust and I know Shug won’t go about telling anyone else.

But seriously with details from recent budgets meant to confuse even the most up to date soul, useful and reliable advice from a trusted source can be invaluable. I can testify from my own experience when changing my business circumstances, I couldn’t have done it without the advice of a good trusted lawyer and accountant. Now with issues of succession planning, one can’t get the ball rolling quickly enough. I know they can be expensive but good trusted advice and someone who has your back will be worth it in the end. But there is a lot of advice from so many other avenues available that need not scare you. NSA membership allows you a free phone call for legal advice, RSABI too are just the best, give them a phone and they will point you in the right direction and a great support to all in the agricultural sector.

In my case, awkward kitchen table discussions were

made so much easier with an independent mediator present. They can often coax a splinter out a wound of conflict and stop a festering sore which may or may not have festered for years becoming an issue that can halt all sensible deliberations.

So, if you want peace of mind just get on with it and get your affairs in order. Then, in the new year when your “first paw” comes to the door, you can tell your own “Shug the Dug” things are sorted and scratch his ear with a clear and contented conscience, I know that in my case it was a huge sense of relief once it was all over and done with.

So, with that Paws for thought, may I wish you a Happy New Year, and here’s to a more settled 2025

For further information, please visit https://www.nationalsheep.org.uk/webinars/

For farms considering lambing indoors for the first time, and those that are well accustomed to the process, there are some best practice tips that can help improve ewe and lamb health through improved nutrition and hygiene. Gwyn James from Nettex offers some personal and professional advice for any farm looking to make improvements to lambing indoors this season.

“I grew up on a sheep and beef farm in Wales and still help family and friends to lamb inside,” says Mr James. He suggests starting by identifying ewes that show signs of a calcium deficiency.

1. “When brought in prior to lambing, ewes can often suffer from a calcium deficiency. The nutritional imbalance is caused by the unavailability of metabolisable calcium seen in the final weeks of pregnancy as ewes are put under significant nutritional stress due to accelerated foetal growth. CalciEwe+ is a calcium drench with added energy, magnesium and niacin to support recovery after pre-lambing exhaustion. It should be used when the first signs of calcium deficiency are observed. These can include coma, paralysis, rapid breathing, tremors or uncoordinated movements,” says Mr James.

Further health concerns for ewes carrying twins can be identified and dealt with quickly and easily thanks to high energy liquids that replace and rebalance the nutritional needs of ewes before lambing.

2

. “Twin lamb disease, also known as pregnancy toxemia, affects sheep in the late stages of pregnancy. If untreated, the ewe is unlikely to recover. It's caused by low blood glucose levels and symptoms include weight loss, blindness and ewes will be unable to stand or eat. It can be brought on by stress from handling or transporting ewes. Ewes with too high or too low a body condition score are at greater risk.

A twin lamb solution containing a high energy liquid should be administered as early as possible. If caught late and the ewe has gone down, twin lamb solutions become less effective, an important tool at this stage is make sure the ewe is hydrated via a drenching gun,” explains Mr James.

He suggests that despite the pressure of managing other aspects of the farm, spending the time indoors to make sure lambing pens and overall shed hygiene is at its best is crucial to preventing common diseases.

3. “Preparation of a hygienic and comfortable lambing area is a discipline all farms tend to observe. However, once lambing starts it is often tricky to maintain these high standards. Equipment should be cleaned between uses to minimise the spread of any bacteria and disease. Joint Ill and Watery Mouth are commonly caused by poor shed hygiene and can be avoided with a disciplined cleanliness regime,” he says.

Following a successful birth, lambs will benefit from a quality colostrum product to help recover from the birth.

4. For lambs that struggle to stand and suckle, an energy boost in the form of colostrum is a must. Lambs that don’t feed quickly are at risk from hypothermia, and a colostrum that can elevate blood glucose levels will help lambs to recover and suckle faster.

Lastly, he says that being able to identify lambs and ewes as housing fills up is important to ensure lost lambs are reunited with their mothers to avoid them becoming weak.

5. It is easy to lapse on marking as lambing gets busy, but it is important to use a quality spray. I tail and number lambs and dock the ewe’s tail too. Having a longlasting spray helps when the flock is turned out, especially in heavy rain.

On Wednesday 5th February 2025, Dairy-Tech will return to Stoneleigh Park. Established as the leading industry event when it comes to showcasing new innovations, concepts and products, this year will see all of this and more, with a brand new hub, a new hall and more exhibition space.

The event will see the launch of the Down to Earth Hub, a new speaker area, focused on sustainability, looking at the concepts we can implement on farm to ensure we’re in line with future industry legislation when it comes to reducing our carbon footprint. The hub, sponsored by Kingshay, will house four sessions; carbon, soil, biology and plants, all of which will present as dynamic panel sessions.

The decision behind the new hub continues to ensure the event is meeting the needs of modern dairy professionals, regardless of their system size or type, by providing exposure to a whole range of ideas, concepts and new thinking aimed at maximising business efficiency and productivity.

The Dairy and Innovation Hubs will return: this year will see the Dairy Hub theme focusing on future-proofing and cost of compliance, with sessions looking at perspectives when it comes to lending, politics and Catchment Sensitive Farming. There will also be panel debates from Kite Consulting and AHDB looking at future compliance and how your levy is being spent when it comes to this.

The Innovation Hub has a leading line up of speakers who will cover topics such as data and how it should be used to inform wise business decisions; how we are making progress when it comes to dairy cow lameness; practical use of genomics in breeding and the benefits of using blood and milk analysis for early pregnancy diagnosis; looking at labour solutions and what can be implemented to alleviate the pressures around staff shortages. The hub will conclude with a session on the role of microorganisms in dairy, uncovering the truth behind them and addressing whether additives are money well spent.

The event will host a portfolio of new product launches with a wide variety of products, services and concepts being showcased. It will as ever, be bursting with the latest technology and innovation on the market, with plenty for everyone and lots of new ideas to implement.

As lameness continues to lead as a priority within Defra, and its Animal Health and Welfare Pathway, our Healthy Feet Zone will return, this year it will be led by EkoHoofcare and NACFT and will take on stand P146 place in Hall 3.

Hall 3 will also house a training area, where we have teamed up with training provider LANTRA, who will cover topics on cow signals, mobility scoring and health and safety on farms.

We will also be welcoming, dairy farmer, Tom Pemberton

back to Dairy-Tech but this year he will be joined on an influencer panel debate by fellow farmers

Charlotte Ashley, Rebecca Wilson and Silas HedleyLawrence, where they will discuss current farming issues and from a variety of angles. They will also take part in a one hour meet and greet on the RABDF Stand after the panel session where they will answer further questions from visitors

All visitor tickets booked in advance are sold at a discounted rate of £20, with free tickets, and further concessions, for RABDF and Women in Dairy members. Tickets purchased on the gate are £25. Discounted tickets are also available for students and young farmers. Further information available at www.dairy-tech.uk or office@rabdf.co.uk

pigs Probiotic live yeast key to reducing fattening time and improving FCR

The inclusion of a probiotic live yeast in pig diets can shorten the fattening period and improve feed conversion ratio, according to results from a recent trial.

Hannah Elliott, monogastric technical manager at Lallemand Animal Nutrition, says the yearlong trial was carried out across a total of 27,000 pigs in 66 batches where 32 batches were supplemented with the probiotic live yeast, LEVUCELL SB (Saccharomyces cerevisiae boulardii CNCM I-1079).

“By incorporating Levucell SB into pig diets we get better fibre digestion; this is because the live yeast increases bacterial fibre degradation and therefore production of short chain fatty acids (SCFA) which result in more energy for the pig,” she explains.

“And by replacing some of the raw material energy contribution cost with Levucell SB, results can be gained at no extra cost.”

The trial found that including Levucell SB with an energy valorisation of 1.3%, allowed pigs to reach fattening weight 3 days sooner.

“The pigs fed Levucell SB also benefitted from a better feed conversion ratio (FCR) and an

improvement in average daily weight gain (ADG),” she adds.

FCR was reduced by an average of 2% in the experimental group and ADG increased by 2.6%, demonstrating that the pigs were more efficient at turning feed into body mass with the probiotic yeast.

Alongside these results, an improvement in carcass quality was also reported, with pigs supplemented with Levucell SB having better lean meat composition compared to the control group.

Ms Elliott says Levucell SB was selected due to its ability to survive in more acidic environments with a thicker cell wall than S. cerevisiae strains, making it more suitable for use in monogastric diets.

“Its superior ability to scavenge oxygen within the gut, stimulate fibrobacteres populations (patent pending) for improved SCFA production and produce metabolites such as acetate/ anti-toxin molecules, means Levucell SB can help reinforce gut efficiency,” she explains.

For more information on including a probiotic live yeast into feed rations, speak to your nutritionist or contact Lallemand Animal Nutrition.

Check winter ventilation settings

With the onset of colder weather, pig farmers are reminded to review their ventilation controller settings and to make sure inlets and heaters are working properly.

“Inlets that are automatically controlled should be checked to ensure that they are operating correctly in concert with ventilation fans,” says Hugh Crabtree of ventilation specialists, Farmex.

“Supplementary heating needs to be carefully tested. Controllers may well switch the heaters on, but it needs to be determined that they are actually working!

“It is also important to check minimum ventilation settings. High minimum ventilation rates can subject pigs – especially young ones – to an overnight cold shock,” warns Mr Crabtree.

Ambitious plans for future of freshwater pearl mussels in the Cairngorms National Park

Freshwater pearl mussels are one of our most important and endangered species and populations have been facing a steep decline. In response, the Park Authority is working with partners and land managers to develop strategies which will secure a brighter future for the species.

As their name suggests, the mussels are found in our freshwater rivers and they play a crucial role in improving the water quality of rivers such as the Spey and the Dee, filtering up to 50 litres of water a day which benefits a range of other species, including salmon, trout and otters.

Working closely with the Spey Fisheries Board and the Spey Catchment Partnership, the Park Authority are developing plans to move threatened populations of pearl mussels from the main stem of the River Spey to safer habitats in the upper tributaries of the river. Subject to licencing, it is hoped this work could begin as early as spring 2025.

to safeguard the remaining freshwater pearl mussels and then we can work on population reinforcement. The good news is that extensive river restoration work is already underway and we will continue to build on that work going forward.”

Dee Catchment Partnership Manager and Freshwater Ecologist at the Hutton Institute, Dr Susan Cooksley, explains, “The freshwater pearl mussel is a highly sensitive indicator of a river's overall health. The recovery strategy that is proposed aims to support the species from all sides, protecting the existing mussels, restoring habitat and then reinforcing the population. The success of which will depend on river restoration efforts to ensure freshwater pearl mussels have healthy habitats in which to thrive.

A feasibility study commissioned by the Park Authority and undertaken by the James Hutton Institute has suggested that conservation breeding could be a suitable step towards reinforcing the mussel population on the Dee. As pearl mussels take five to ten years

Meanwhile on the River Dee, innovative techniques such as eDNA monitoring are being used to identify remnant populations and help pinpoint where action is needed. Led by the James Hutton Institute, this work is taking place following a report, commissioned by NatureScot and the Park Authority through the Dee Catchment Partnership, which revealed an approximate 90% reduction in the population of freshwater pearl mussels in the River Dee since 2002. The decline is thought to be caused primarily by the devastating effects of Storm Frank in 2015, where the violence of the storm not only swept much of the population away but also tore up the riverbed, leaving it highly unstable for mussels to anchor on. The current condition of the Dee makes it unsuitable for translocation of the mussels and alternative approaches are being considered.

to reach maturity, this will form part of a long-term Cairngorms freshwater pearl mussel recovery strategy, allowing time to work alongside land managers and the River Dee Trust to undertake extensive habitat restoration to prepare the River Dee for the adult mussels to be reintroduced.

Cairngorms National Park Authority board member and Director of Alba Ecology, Dr Peter Cosgrove, who led the team conducting the surveys, said: “The survey highlighted the devastating effects Storm Frank had on our pearl mussel population which is why this plan is so critical. Working with our highly experienced river partnership we will first work

“Catchment scale restoration is the key to resilient rivers where nature and people can thrive in the face of climate change. The Dee is leading the way with a range of ambitious projects throughout the catchment.

“The work already underway on the River Dee will prepare the way for future population reinforcements. This is being led by the River Dee Trust and Dee District Salmon Fishery Board and coordinated through the Dee Catchment Partnership, including the Cairngorms 2030 river restoration project and other initiatives.”

Work is also underway to establish the status of mussels on the South Esk and Don to inform the recovery strategy.

New project launches to ensure communities benefit from natural capital investment

A new initiative is launching to ensure more people can benefit from the investments being made in natural capital across Scotland.

The project will broker partnerships between local communities, landowners, and nature finance developers.

The project – led by Community Land Scotland in partnership with the Scottish Land Commission - will help

deliver Government expectations that communities are involved in decisions about - and benefit from - Scotland’s land.

Many landowners and developers are investing in natural capital opportunities and recognise the need for good local relationships and ensuring local people benefit from their projects.

With investment in land for natural capital developments

growing rapidly, there is a need to ensure that communities are meaningfully engaged, that they receive an equitable share of the benefits, and that the risk of them being sidelined is minimised.

The Natural Capital Partnerships Project aims to establish fair and practical examples of projects where communities, developers, and landowners work together to

share in the benefits of natural capital investment.

The groundbreaking project is funded by Esmée Fairbairn Foundation, Foundation Scotland, Scottish Forestry, and South of Scotland Enterprise.

New team will work with all sectors.

The new team will work closely with stakeholders including community representatives, development agencies, National Park Authorities, the Scottish government, landowner representatives, the finance sector, and project developers, to create inclusive partnership models that deliver shared benefits.

This project will demonstrate how natural capital investment can serve to improve outcomes for nature and climate whilst, at the same time, strengthening community resilience.

By building relationships and capturing emerging good practice, the project will develop

clear examples, case studies, and sample contracts that showcase how natural capital projects can help build stronger communities. This knowledge will be shared widely to guide future projects across Scotland and encourage community-focused investment approaches.

One aim is to help support policy implementation and inform future policy development around high integrity natural capital markets.

This is of particular importance as these markets are in their infancy and face uncertainties, and challenges, particularly around accusations of greenwashing/community washing, unknown financial returns, the role of public funding, and their long-term impacts and benefits. These concerns have led to reticence from some landowners and communities about engaging in natural capital project development.

Wildlife Estates Scotland appoints new project manager

A new project manager has been announced for Wildlife Estates Scotland (WES), the international wildlife and habitat best practice accreditation scheme.

Neil Gunn has been appointed to the role, which will see him assume responsibility for day-today management of WES.

Hailing from rural Perthshire, Neil has a strong affinity with the countryside and regularly travels out and about rural Scotland.

Passionate about promoting the best that Scotland has to offer, Neil worked in the heritage tourism sector for four years. He started out at the Royal Yacht Britannia while studying at University of Edinburgh, from which he holds two degrees, before moving on to work for Historic Environment Scotland at Edinburgh Castle.

Neil has several years’ experience in project planning and management gained while

in the Army. He joined the Army Reserve during his university studies and served full time from 2022 to 2024 as a commissioned officer. Career highlights include deploying on NATO operations where he led on information strategy and was responsible for allocating tasking to some 600 personnel.

On joining WES, Neil said: "It is a real privilege to be joining WES as project manager at what is an incredibly exciting time for the project”.

Snaring now banned in Scotland

No apologies for this being the second article on this topic in quick succession but setting a snare in Scotland is now illegal. The new law came into effect on 25 November 2024 as part of the Wildlife Management and Muirburn (Scotland) Act.

Gamekeeping circles will be completely up to speed (or should be) with these changes but we know that others who either have feathered game interests only as part of their job or farmers using snares for purposes of protecting their flock for example may have missed the messaging.

So, setting a snare for ‘killing or restraining a wild animal’ is now forbidden. That means that all snares should have been deactivated and we are encouraging those who have used them in the past to retain all records of their previous use just in case.

Whilst remaining contentious trapping on the other hand is still permitted but under strict regulation and, in order to retain this vital method of wildlife management, it’s important that everyone using traps is properly trained. Training in spring trapping and wild bird trapping is now mandatory.

GWCT pioneered training for this and the current NatureScot syllabus has been developed with GWCT using our material. We have been running training courses for many years and next dates for our Scottish Government Approved training days on wild bird (corvid) trapping and spring (tunnel) trapping are:

5 and 6 February 2025, Durisdeer, Dumfries and Galloway

12 February, Soval Estate, Isle of Lewis

20 February, Islay Estates Office, Isle of Islay

24 February, Achfary Village Hall, Sutherland

25 February, Knockanbuie, Tulchan Estate, Advie, Morayshire

26 February, Bridgefoot Mill, Logie Coldstone, Aberdeenshire

27 February, Perthshire (location TBC but register now)

28 February, Kilrie Granary, Kirkcaldy, Fife

Places can be booked here www.gwctadvisoryscotland. co.uk/calendar/

Moreover, in carrying out legal predator control, it’s becoming increasingly important to be able to demonstrate adherence to Best Practice. GWCT has developed the Best Practice with Proof initiative, which allows land managers to collect data on the ground, which are then evaluated in detailed annual reports. GWCT also offers Predator Control Assessments as a bespoke external audit. More information here: www. gwctadvisoryscotland.co.uk/ services/predator-controlassessments

Our research has repeatedly demonstrated the benefits of legal humane predator control for game and wildlife. As an organisation, we remain committed to ensuring that this form of wildlife management has a future in Scotland.

land & property

An attractive smallholding with stunning views of Banffshire’s rolling countryside is brought to the market by DM Hall Chartered Surveyors

The enduring appeal of owning land speaks to something deep inside most people, but the allure of a place of your own in one of the most softly beautiful parts of the kingdom holds a particular piquancy.

Add the attraction of a modern house – in pristine, move-in condition – with views over rolling countryside, and that sums up the property, which is being brought to market by DM Hall, one of the UK’s leading firms of independent Chartered Surveyors.

The smallholding in question is Upper Lynemore Farm, just

four miles south of the friendly town of Keith, in the Isla valley and on the Speyside Malt Whisky Trail in the historic county of Banffshire.

The farm boasts twenty-five and three-quarter acres, or 10.42 ha, which at present is given over mostly to livestock grazing – a landscape of well-tended fields, hardy trees and distant panoramas of rounded hills.

Upper Lynemore is likely to experience a surge in interest as a result of a number of factors including, as the Scottish Land Commission’s (SLC’s) 2024 Rural

Land Market Insights Report notes, increased demand for small holdings from lifestyle buyers.

The land at Lynemore is arable, though mostly set to grazing, and mixed farming units have attracted new found interest, according to the SLC, due to their blend of food production and nature restoration potential, which may prove beneficial when considering the new agricultural support scheme.

The outbuildings at the farm are of mixed repair and provide useful shelter and storage. There is a large hardstanding area

located adjacent to the steading which is used for the storage of bales. Mains electricity and private water are connected to some, but not all, of the buildings.

Offers over £520,000 are invited. Viewing, which will be accompanied, is by appointment only.

Expressions of interest should be directed to Kirstie. McLachlan@dmhall.co.uk at DM Hall’s Bridge of Allan branch. Telephone: 01786 833800.

land & property

Productive area of arable and grazing land with development potential in the heart of the Scottish borders

Land at Bowden, situated in a rural yet accessible location, is a block of productive arable and grazing land extending to approximately 28.22 Ha (69.73 Acres).

The land has been principally classified as Grade 3.2 and is currently divided into four separate fields which are all well fenced and have water troughs. The land is offered for sale as a whole or in 4 lots.

Duncan Barrie of Galbraith, who is handling the sale, said; “The Land at Bowden offers great flexibility in terms of continuing with existing farming operations on the land or, given the proximity to the village of Bowden, the land may present longer term development opportunities subject to obtaining necessary consents, as the land holds a strategic position in terms of the future expansion of the village.

”Located approximately 1.5 miles west of Newtown St. Boswells and approximately 4 miles south of Melrose, the Land at Bowden is near the A7 and A68 roads which lead to the

Scottish and English border. The land is approximately 40 miles from Edinburgh.

The nearby village of Newtown St. Boswells is home to St. Boswells livestock mart. There is forestry and woodland creation potential, subject to planting consents as well as the potential to expand environmental interests through Natural Capital schemes.

The Land at Bowden is offered for sale as a whole through Galbraith for Offers Over £850,000, or in four lots as follows:

Lot 1 Land at Bowden is offered for sale through Galbraith for Offers Over £275,000.

Lot 2 Land at Bowden is offered for sale through Galbraith for Offers Over £260,000.

Lot 3 Land at Bowden is offered for sale through Galbraith for Offers over £165,000.

Lot 4 Land at Bowden is offered for sale through Galbraith for Offers Over £150,000.

To find out more about Galbraith visit www.galbraithgroup.com

The stakes are high

Rural issues aren’t just about the countryside, they’re about people, jobs, and the health of our nation’s natural assets

By Cameron Gillies, Public Affairs Manager at Scottish Land & Estates

Rural Scotland stands at a crossroads. With its magnificent landscapes, resilient communities, and vibrant businesses, our rural areas are integral to the nation’s identity and prosperity. Yet, despite their contributions to our economy, environment, and culture, rural communities and businesses often feel overshadowed by urban priorities. At Scottish Land & Estates, we believe it’s time for a ‘rural reset’ - a bold shift in how governments, politicians, and society engage with rural Scotland.

Our recently launched policy prospectus, Rural Reset – Policy Choices from Rural Voices, is a clarion call to decision-makers to rethink their approach to rural policy. This isn't just a wishlist but a well-defined roadmap grounded in the everyday realities of rural communities. By resetting the relationship between rural Scotland and our governments, we can unlock a prosperous, sustainable future that benefits all of Scotland.

The challenges rural communities face - whether it's the lack of affordable housing, barriers to achieving net-zero targets, or threats to tourism and agricultureare deeply interconnected. Yet solutions are within reach. By embedding rural considerations into decisionmaking processes through dedicated rural impact assessments, policy can be shaped to reflect the unique

needs of rural areas. Tackling barriers to investment can empower businesses to drive progress on net-zero and biodiversity goals. Increasing the supply of affordable housing will help retain families and workforces in rural areas, preserving community cohesion and vitality. Providing stability for farmers through secure multi-annual budgets will give them the confidence to innovate and thrive, while revisiting legislation impacting tourism can safeguard a sector critical to rural economies.

There is no shortage of rural businesses willing and able to lead on these initiatives. What is needed is a renewed commitment from governments, their agencies, and local authorities to work in partnership with rural Scotland. This collaboration is essential to achieving shared objectives such as addressing climate change, restoring nature, and delivering tangible benefits for all.

The stakes are high. Rural issues aren’t just about the countryside; they’re about people, jobs, and the health of our nation’s natural assets. Vibrant rural communities and thriving businesses are essential to Scotland’s overall wellbeing. The time has come to listen to rural voices and, crucially, back them with action. Together, we can place rural Scotland at the heart of the nation’s future and ensure that it remains a cornerstone of our shared prosperity.

For more information www.scottishlandandestates.co.uk

Telephone : 0131 653 5400

A stronger voice for the nation’s trees Scotland’s Finest Woods appoints trio of trustees

The team of tree champions at Scotland’s Finest Woods has been given a big boost with the appointment of three new trustees.

Alison Chisholm, a chartered landscape architect with Forestry and Land Scotland, Dr Alicja Dzieciol, an entrepreneur and chemist, and Sam Howard, a forestry lecturer at Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC), will join the existing trustees to help the charity promote the very best of woodland and forestry across the country; from school nursery and community woods to agroforestry and quality timber production.

First on the agenda will be the prestigious Scotland’s Finest Woods Awards which are held each year to celebrate and recognise trees, woodlands and the people caring for them across Scotland, from young children to farmers, communities to professional foresters.

This year the awards ceremony is taking place at the Scottish Parliament during National Tree Week on November 27 and preparations are well under way now the expert group of judges have finished their deliberations.

Jean Nairn, Executive Director of Scotland’s Finest Woods, said: “Ali, Sam and Alicja will really strengthen our work. We are a small charity

but have a big impact across Scotland, not least with the Scotland’s Finest Woods Awards which we are excited about hosting later this month.

“The new trustees will be at the heart of our organisation, helping to make our promotion of woodland and forestry even more powerful.”

As strong as oaks: Horsepower harnessed to ensure a sustainable future for

Scotland’s forests

For the first time since the modernisation of the electricity network, horses are being used to extract timber on SSEN Transmission projects.

It may be the image of a bygone era, but there is still very

much a place for horse logging - the extraction of timber - from Scotland’s forests.

So much so that SSEN Transmission has contracted in Future Forestry, a business that combines the latest in forestry

technologies with the tricky extractions only possible with horses.

Based in Aberdeenshire in the Northeast of Scotland — but operating across the country — Future Forestry is

finding that there is still a place for horse logging where access, space, environmental, or ground sensitivities don't allow for modern-day machinery.

While the business has recently invested in robotic

forestry

machinery for removing timber from site, it has also welcomed three new four-legged team members to help with the taskEli, Luke, and Ben.

Director of Operations, Angie Smith said: "It has always been our mission to be forwardthinking with investment in new technologies to make work safer and more efficient, but time saving isn't always the main priority on a lot of our worksites.

"We have to consider the environment we are working in and how we can leave a site having caused as little impact as possible on what remains. It's always a balance between getting value for our clients and mitigating our impact.

"When I heard that the previous owner John was retiring from working with the heavy horses, I knew we had a place for them, even on some of our commercial contracts.

“Our fantastic equine manager, Annie Hutchison, spent a year settling them in after their move from Rochdale and has also been helping with staff training. We currently have four staff members who have undergone horse logging training courses as members of the British Horse Loggers.”

To date, the horses have worked on a number of projects, including one for SSEN Transmission at a location close to Brechin in Angus.

Future Forestry's work on the spur that connects the overhead line to the Brechin substation is the final phase of the resilience work on the 132kV overhead line circuits from Tealing to Arbroath.

The site was classed as a ‘high risk’ to the network due to the size and proximity of conifer trees in the area, so the trees were scheduled for removal.

Commercial harvesting operations are being used for much of the work, but an area around 0.5 hectares in size required sensitive felling and

pruning as it was adjacent to a neighbouring property.

Helping to minimise disturbance, manual tree cutting along with horse logging was used to sensitively extract timber from amongst the broadleaf trees that are being retained as a space that the surrounding properties use.

Vegetation Management Operations Manager for SSEN Transmission, Martin Sangster said: “We are not aware of horses being involved in tree-felling work since the network was modernised; however, we’ve been aware of the practice.

“Future Forestry have been working with SSEN Transmission for a long time, and when they suggested this technique to help manage the requirements of the task, we were supportive.

“It also alleviated the concerns of nearby residents who were worried all trees were being removed with heavy machinery. On learning of the horse logging technique, they became supportive of the plans and appreciative of the steps being taken to reduce the impact of felling operations.”

Government launches Tree Planting Taskforce to oversee planting of millions of trees across our four nations

A new Tree Planting Taskforce has been launched to oversee the planting of millions of trees across the UK

The Taskforce, chaired by the forestry ministers from the four nations, brought together representatives from key arm’slength bodies and delivery partners from across the UK.

Top of the agenda at the meeting was how to drive forward the UK's tree planting in order to meet our collective net zero targets, as part of the Government’s critical mission to make the UK a clean and green energy superpower.

The UK has less tree cover than almost anywhere in Europe and more work is needed to close this gap. Our nation’s woodlands and trees are the heart of communities around the UK, essential to supporting wellbeing and improving quality of life, alongside providing sustainable timber and being

Equine manager for Future Forestry, Annie Hutchison removing timber with Eli

home to some of our most important species.

The Taskforce is designed to strengthen collaborative working across the UK, identifying opportunities to work together, to improve tree planting and ensure the long-term survival of woodland, safeguarding their benefits for future generations.

Forestry Minister Mary Creagh said: “This Government was elected on a mandate to protect and restore nature.

“That is why today I am proud to fulfil our promise to set up a Tree Planting Taskforce that will oversee the planting of millions of trees across our four nations.

“Trees deliver huge social, environmental and economic benefits – from absorbing carbon dioxide, cooling our cities, improving wellbeing and helping reduce NHS costs, while a thriving forestry sector

supports green jobs and drives economic growth”.

Scotland’s Rural Affairs

Secretary Mairi Gougeon said: “I welcome the formation of this Taskforce as we all have a collective interest in increasing woodland cover and obtaining the multiple benefits this will bring, especially for climate change and addressing biodiversity loss. “Currently Scotland has delivered around 75% of all new woodlands in the UK. In 23/24 we created 15,000 ha of new woodland and this accounted for over 50% of the UK target. Whilst this is a substantial contribution, we know there is potential for us all to do more.

“The new Taskforce will be a great opportunity for all the countries to share valuable insights and ideas to expand our woodlands and create resilient forests for the future.”

FARMING SCOTLAND MAGAZINE

Making Scotland’s forests more resilient

An important new measure came into force back in October this year which will help boost the resilience of Scotland’s forests and woodlands in the future.

Contained in the new UK Forestry Standard (UKFS) is a new action which states that the maximum of any one tree species in new woodland creation plans will be limited to 65%, with the rest made from a mixture of trees.

With this new move coming into play, Scotland will see a greater range of tree species being grown. This will make forests and woodlands more resilient to the effects of climate change and the growing number of pests and diseases.

The UKFS provides best practice guidelines for all landowners, foresters and woodland owners to follow.

Dr Helen McKay, Chief Forester for Scotland said: “Although global and regional climate models predictions are improving, there are still big uncertainties about the weather that any given area of woodland will experience.

“The changing climate means that past performance

is no longer a guarantee of future survival, growth or economic return. Therefore, relying so heavily on a limited set of species is not sensible. Broadening the range of species should reduce the risk overall.”

Improving the resilience of our forests can take many different forms, including increasing the extent, connectivity and diversity and health of Scotland’s trees.

Increasing the diversity of tree species is very important as it can provide different wildlife habitats and boost biodiversity. By planting or regenerating a mix of trees we can reduce the chance of a single disease or pest wiping out large areas of woodland.

Scottish Forestry is currently working with the forest sectors on a new action plan which will improve the resilience of our forests and set out recommendations to boost the range of tree species that we grow in Scotland. The action plan is expected to published next year.

Travel Scotland

Spirited St Andrews

By Janice Hopper

St Andrews is globally renowned for its golf courses and golfing history, but its coastal location and access to the fertile lands of Fife, bring tales of agriculture and farming to the table, as well as tee times and holes in one.

Highland cattle

Kinkell Byre, just outside St Andrews, provides a mix of rural offerings. The Fyfe family have farmed here since 1950, and the byre itself was built in the 1700s to provide winter shelter for cattle. The byre is now a popular venue for weddings and events, with couples walking under an image of Highland bullock ‘Archie’ as they enter the charming rustic outbuilding. In terms of tourist attractions, Kinkell’s Highland Cow experience allows visitors to get up close to these shaggy icons of Scotland. At £20 per person (with kids under 18 free) proceeds go to Kinkell’s rewilding charity that aims to increase biodiversity

in Scotland. The farm also runs beekeeping days and occasional artistic residencies. One of the venue’s most popular events is its annual ‘Ceilidh for Nature’ where dancing, dining and nature stalls provide entertainment and raise funds. Last year’s event welcomed speakers including Mairi Gougeon (Scotland’s Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands) and farmer-turnednature-conservationist Derek Gow, accompanied by a Wild Rover meal featuring produce from Pittormie Farm, Balcaskie Estate and Yester Farm. Kinkell’s rewilding project has already planted over 13,000 trees, 1.2 km of hedgerows and over seven

acres of wildflower meadows, plus created eight ponds and several wader scrapes.

Central finds

Back in the centre of town get a meat fix at a mix of venues.

‘Rogue’ on South Street serves up seafood and dry-aged beef with Felons Gin that’s distilled on site. Forgan’s, with its recognisable pig motif, dishes up beef goulash stew and a ‘Putter’s Plate’ of pork loin and black pudding sausage roll. It also runs a free ceilidh on Saturdays at 10pm. Get your dairy fix at a mix of well known ice cream parlours such as Jannettas Gelateria, the Dook shack at West Sands beach, or try the

newly refurbished Luvians on Market Street that reopened with a brand new look to accompany its winter treats. The cheeses at I J Mellis Cheesemongers are a delight, from Irish ‘Durros Óg' to Scottish ‘Minger’. And don’t miss Andrew and Donaldson’s iconic fudge doughnuts packed with the creamiest fillings. For a ‘seed to plate’ experience consider Five Acres café on Market Street that serves seasonal dishes and light bites with produce from the East Neuk Market Garden. This informal farm-to-table cafe is supplied by ENMG’s agroecological Fife farm that grows vegetables, salads, herbs and fruit following organic methods.

Head out of town

Head slightly out of town to browse the renowned Balgove Larder, complete with Steak Barn, butchery classes, Night Markets and café. A final foodie option, near Leuchars, is The Rhynd. This venue has an arable farm at its heart, and offers a café focussed on farm and local produce — the £4.50 sausage roll with slaw and salad is a bargain. Expect quirky events here, such as ‘Pigs by Candlelight’, ‘Game by Candlelight’ and a monthly 'Bacon and Brakes’ car and motorcycle meet that brings enthusiasts together on the first Sunday of every month from March through to September. A gym (with classes and personal trainers), clay shooting, archery and axe-throwing activities are also available on site.

Kinkell Byre courtesy of Ross Alexander Photography

Travel Scotland

Spirited adventures

In terms of spirits, pick up whisky from Kingsbarn Distillery crafted from local Fife barley, and sold at Luvians Bottle Shop, Taste of Scotland and Balgove Larder. Meanwhile gin lovers can head to Eden Mill. Expect local botanicals, such as heather, lavender and seaweed in its crisp Golf Gin that’s inspired by the local grassland and coastal golf courses of Scotland. Eden Mill’s new distillery visitor centre is underway for opening in Spring 2025. Gin and whisky tours will be available and, whether visitors undertake a tour or not, everyone is welcome to stop at the new café, gift shop or cocktail bar.

By night

In the evening take in a show at the Byre Theatre on Abbey Street. The clue’s in the name, as this theatre was originally founded in 1933 by a local playwright and journalist in a semi-derelict cow shed. Today’s modern theatre showcases a mix of cinema, music, comedy and staged performances, with titles like The Importance of Being Earnest, Swan Lake and King Lear due to tread the boards in early 2025.

After a packed day bed down in St Andrews’ newly refurbished Hotel du Vin on The Scores. Forty-two beautifully refreshed rooms range from Classic Doubles to Suites, named after golfing greats such as Old Tom Morris. A French flavour runs through the hotel, from indulgent L’Occitane toiletries in the rooms to Chateaubriand steak and Malbec on the dining menu, plus excellent croissants and pain au chocolat served up at breakfast. The elegant reimagined bistro with sea views and calming green hues just opened in December 2024. The venue has an array of menus on offer, from afternoon teas, traditional Sunday Lunch and ‘Prix Fixe’ to a swift ‘Formule’ menu (popular with golfers) that promises to serve three courses within thirty minutes. Ultimately, the à la carte menu delivers; start with the roast king scallops with a gremolata and herb crust. The daube of beef provençale main

course is beautifully tender and simply flakes away. Indulge with a rich but fresh pear and gingerbread trifle for dessert. For those travelling with little ones, the kids’ menu is notably good, mixing grown-up dishes

such as prawn cocktail and steak and chips, to kids’ favourites including garlic bread and mac ’n’ cheese. End the adventure with a night cap in the bar, and maybe finally decide which local gin or whisky is your favourite.

Kingsbarns Whisky courtesy of Ewan Harvey

Eden Mill Gin

Balgove Produce

I J Melllis cheesemongers

Daube of Beef - Hotel du Vin

Farmers make their presence felt at Holyrood

By Jake Swindells

Holyrood has been responsible for delivering funding to our farming sector for some time now and this, coupled with the recently elected Labour government, has caused many difficulties, and a lot of upset in rural Scotland of late. Our SNP government clearly doesn’t feel like it needs the support of the rural sector to remain in power, so our countryside becomes the centre of focus when it comes to legislation that causes significant adverse effects, often

originating from funding cuts in key areas.

During the recent budget announcement, the Scottish Government have allocated over £660 million in funding for Scottish farmers, crofters, land managers and rural communities. This includes £20 million in a new support plan for farming and food production, £35.5 million to help fund the restoration of more than 15,000 Ha of degraded peatland, and £53 million to the forestry sector to create in excess of 11,000

Ha of woodland across Scotland. £9 million has been proposed for the Islands Programme to enhance essential infrastructure and to help with the increased cost of living in these areas. £14.5 million has been allocated to Marine Fund Scotland to support innovation in the industry. In real terms, the day-to-day spending by the Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands budget is set to fall by 3.1%.

We supported calls to retain multi-annual funding

Jake Swindells

for the agriculture sector, however this has not been taken forward by the Scottish Government. Future funding will likely be guaranteed until 2026, maintaining a level of uncertainty for the farming and rural community in Scotland beyond that date. November saw hundreds of farmers, land managers and stakeholder organisations descend on the Scottish Parliament to ask the Scottish Government for more clarity on future agricultural funding. The speeches given by The SNP seemed upbeat and positive, but the reality is likely to be different. The rally, organised by NFU Scotland, was addressed by speakers from a number of farming organisations, including the Scottish Association of Young Farmers and the rural charity RSABI. MSPs from the Conservative, SNP and Liberal Democrat parties also spoke in support of the farmers. Amongst these were Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands, Mairi Gougeon MSP, Minister for Agriculture and Connectivity, Jim Fairlie MSP, Leader of the Scottish Conservative Party, Russell Findlay MSP, Scottish Conservative Party Spokesperson for Rural Affairs, Tim Eagle MSP and leader of the Scottish Liberal Democrats, Alex ColeHamilton MSP. Labour and Green MSPs were notably

absent, despite being invited along to speak.

The team from the Scottish Countryside Alliance along with many of our members, attended the rally to show their support for Scottish farming. We spoke to a number of MSPs to reiterate our calls for adequate funding for both agriculture and the rural sector in general. We will be meeting with Tim Eagle soon to discuss the rural aspects linked to our campaign that we intend to work on throughout 2025. The SCA are calling for the Scottish Government to address several areas that are considered vital:

• Championing farmers and producers by providing multi-annual agricultural funding to provide financial stability for farmers, crofters and producers, ensuring food security for the future.

• Investment in rural connectivity by upgrading Scotland’s’ road networks in rural areas and providing a reliable public transport network to serve and connect rural communities.

• Adequate funding allocation for wildlife management to enhance biodiversity and nature recovery throughout Scotland’s vast and varied landscape.

To anyone who lives and works in the British countryside, it is evident that things are getting harder. Fuel is expensive, licences are required for pretty much everything to do with land management and now the new Labour Governments’ budget plans are set to cripple an already struggling community. In Holyrood, Scottish Labour MSP’s defend the position that Labour has taken in relation to inheritance tax in farming, instead deflecting, as Rachel Reeves MP continually does, towards the existing debt that our country is in. We seek justification but all we get is blame.

The SCA, however, is delighted that we have been invited to sit on a new committee, chaired by Mr Fairlie, to discuss how we can better work with the Scottish Government in relation to both land and wildlife management. This is a superb opportunity for us to work with Ministers and MSP’s as new legislation is created. Our aim in to encourage policy makers to engage with us at an earlier stage, and in most cases prior to public consultation, so that we are able to steer any proposed legislation, making sure that it is evidence-led and backed up by sound scientific research. All too often, legislation has been passed with opinion being favoured over facts, and pressure from both Greens and their supporters has no doubt played its part. All we will be asking for is an opportunity to present sensible and sound advice before pen is put to paper in a meaningful way. We hope this is not too much to ask.

Rachael Hamilton MSP shows support

Protests begin at Holyrood

One fine day in July 1959, a heavily-laden, rotund old car drove down a short track in the far North-west Highlands of Scotland, and came to rest outside a low, whitewashed cottage. A rear door opened, a long-legged nineyear-old boy almost fell from the crowded back seat and ran for the front door. As it happened, this was unlocked, and he rushed inside, only to reappear shortly, grinning

An Introduction to Under the Radiant Hill

By Robin Noble

broadly. ‘It’s OK, Mum’, he said, ‘There is one!’

The ‘one’ referred to a functioning loo, and whether or not there actually was one had preoccupied the boy and his mother for a while. I was that boy, and for five years previously, our family – mother, father, Highland grandmother, two boys and assorted animals – had rented a wooden holiday-home on the quiet

side of Loch Ness. This had no amenities and rotting floors; items of furniture were carefully placed to conceal holes in these, while my father had completely to rebuild the floor of what passed as a bathroom. The cottage had no electricity and running water only in the kitchen; there was no loo, and we utilised something called an ‘Elsan’, which might nowadays be called a chemical toilet. This was not a

totally agreeable device, and it fell to my father to perform, at regular intervals, the duty of emptying it of its less-than-pleasant contents. To this end, he dug pits in one part of the steep garden and marked with a cross where each deposit had been made, to avoid digging again in the same place. Many years later, I passed the now much-refurbished cottage, and noting the luxuriance of the garden, wondered whether

The cottage in our childhood and adolescence

the proud owners had any idea as to what they owed its lush beauty!

We had all tired of the Elsan, my father of digging pits, and the limitations of living part-way along the shore of one of the longest lochs in the Highlands had begun to be felt and so, after five years, it was decided to look elsewhere for a base for our family holidays. We had seen an advertisement by the Assynt Estate, intimating that they had cottages to let in their much remoter northern parish, and we decided to investigate. On the appointed day my father had to be elsewhere for his work, and so the rest of us set out on this crucial and quite long journey. We eventually reached the small township of Inchnadamph, best known in those days for its traditional fishinghotel, and there met the estate factor, who would in time become a family friend; he organised one or two very special days for us over the years. Outside Inchnadamph we inspected one cottage, and during the rest of the day we saw a few more: the sheep had been in residence in one, another was up a long, steep and rough track which could only have been negotiated by a Land Rover (which we did not have), and a third prompted a remark by the factor: ‘If your husband were a do-it-yourself type of man . . .’ which went down into family history. This was not because my father was not actually quite good at carpentry, for instance, as his bathroom floor had shown, but because he had made it totally clear that he did not wish to spend his short precious holidays in rebuilding some wreck.

That cottage was also, therefore, duly deleted from the list of possibles, and we toured right round the coast of Assynt before finding a solid, sensible, attractive cottage in a wooded glen, but close to the sea. It was, apparently, ‘condemned’ (which seemed not to imply any limitations on our possible use of it as a holidayhome), but appreciation of its attributes was made slightly more difficult by the fact that it was currently being used as a store by the shepherd, who, with his family, had lived there a few years before. (The estate had recently built for them a spacious and smart new

house, up by the single-track road.) It was partly full of bales of hay and, although we could remember that it had the requisite number of rooms, when asked the crucial question by my father (who had now disposed of the Elsan): ‘Has it got a loo?’, neither my mother nor I could actually remember. We thought it had – we thought we would have noticed if it had not – but neither of us was totally sure. Despite this, the lease of the cottage was duly acquired, and the removal made in due course. All that day, my mother and I had been somewhat on tenterhooks, hence my hasty exit from the car and inspection of the plumbing.

And so, that day in July 1959, the cottage in Glenleraig became the holiday-home of the Noble family and animals, and would remain so until the very end of 1971. That spell of thirteen years would significantly alter the lives of us all, but of none more than me. It might not be too much to say that, in many ways, it became our spiritual home; certainly, that was to prove to be true for me.

In itself, there is nothing unusual in that. For many folk a particular holiday cottage, in a particular glen or bay, perhaps on a particular island, may assume

a huge importance in their lives. For most of us, they give a sense of freedom, take us away from the cares of everyday life, and provide a safe location where we may truly ‘be ourselves’. This quite rapidly became the case for me. At the age of thirteen, I was sent away to a boarding-school, which I hated, and thoughts of Glenleraig reminded me often that life actually was worth living, or would be again, soon. And when I was given holiday work from that school – books, perhaps, to read – I could never even open them while at the cottage. I could not let that outside world impinge. Eventually, I felt able to invite a couple of special friends from the school to visit Assynt and explore our wonderful hills, but it took a year or two before I could face doing it.

There are cottages like this up and down the land, and they often retain this special, ‘safe’ quality well into the adulthood of those who love them. Perhaps the most famous of all is the place which Gavin Maxwell called Camusfearna, ‘The Bay of Alders’, in his best-selling book Ring of Bright Water, which appeared one year after we arrived in our own haven, and which I have read and reread ever since. In his Foreword,

written the October after we first entered Glenleraig, Gavin wrote: . . . these places are symbols. Symbols, for me and for many, of freedom, whether it be from the prison of over-dense communities and the close confines of human relationships, from the less complex incarceration of office walls and hours, or simply freedom from the prison of adult life and an escape into the forgotten world of childhood, of the individual or the race. For I am convinced that man has suffered in his separation from the soil and from the other living creatures of the world.

Slowly, for the nine-year-old boy, this became true, and the cottage in the glen, in its wider, very special Assynt setting, established the vital connection between this individual and the soil which sustains all the living creatures of the planet. It shaped my world view, and subtly dictated the course of my life, with all its ups and downs. Long acquaintance with it and thoughtful study of it, in time revealed something of its geological, archaeological and historical significance; ecological lessons were learnt which are of relevance at least to the wider Highlands and, sometimes, far beyond.

Red kites and buzzards feeding in the winter

Beatha an eilean

Croitearachd a’ dol sios slighe ceàrr

Tha fear de dh’àrd eòlaichean air poileasaidh fearan ag ràdh nach eil Riaghaltas na h-Alba idir airson èisteachd nuair a thig e gu croitearachd - ged a chanas iad gu poblachd g’eil iad gu math taiceil.

Bha Anndra Wightman a’ bruidhinn agus e a’ frithealadh coinneimh bhliadhnail Caidreachas Croitearachd na h-Alba, a chaidh am bliadhna a chumail ann an Steornabhagh agus iad a’ comharrachadh ceud bliadhna de dh’uachdaranas coimhearsnachd. B’e Urras Steornabhaigh a’ chiad oighreachd a thàinig fo smachd nan daoine.

B’àbhaist dha Anndra a bhith na bhall dhen Phàrtaidh Uaine, ach dh’fhàg e ri linn draghan air ciamar a bha iad a’ laimhseachadh gnothaichean sòisealtas.

B’e a chur ri chèile an leabhair ainmeil “Who Owns Scotland?” agus e aithnichte mar eòlaiche air poileasaidhean fearain.

“Tha croitearachd ann an suidheachadh an ìre mhath fallain, ach cha robh luchd nam poileasaidh a-riamh taiceil,” thuirt e. “Tha iad ag ràdh na rudan ceart, cho cudromach ‘s a tha e bho taobh eachdraidh is a’ chultar agus mar sin air adhart agus g’eil spèis mhòr aca dha croitearan.

“Ach nuair a bheir thu sùil air poileasaidh chì thu nach eilear air a bhith idir tacieil. Mar eisimpleir le Bile an Aiteachais a thàinig gu bith bho chionn ghoirid, chan eil taic idir ann dha daoine le nas lugha na trì heactair, ach gheibh thu air tòrr biadh fhàs air trì heactairean.

“Bha taobh àiteachais, tha

Le Murray MacLeòid

poiieasaidh fhathast gu mòr air a stiùireadh le tuathanaich mhora agus an NFU agus tha greim aca air an riaghaltas.

“Ach, cuideachd càite a bheil am miann airson croitearachd a leasachadh? Thathas air dearbhadh gur e modail math dha-riribh a tha ann agus tha an luchd poileataigs ag ràdh gur e rud math a th’ann.

“Agus tha sin fìor. Tha e toirt cothrom dha daoine piosan beaga fearain àiteachais obrachadh, le còirichean làidir na chois agus gun na mìltean mhòra a phaigheadh air a shon. Carson a reisd nach eil iad a’ coimhead ri leudachadh?”

Mar gu leòr eile, bha Mgr Wightman tàmailteach mu cho lag ‘s a tha Bile Ath-leasachaidh na Coitearachd, a tha còir dèiligeadh le siostam na rianachd

a neartachadh ach nach eil idir a’ dol fada gu leòr, a rèir chuid.

“‘S e gnothaich gu tur eile a tha anns a’ mhargaidh ann an croitean agus a dh’fheumas dèiligeadh ris,” thuirt Anndra. “Ma tha siostam gu bhith iad far a bheil cothrom aig daoine air piosan beaga fearan air màl, chan urrainn dhut an uairsin an cothrom a thoirt dhaibh a bhith gan reic airson na ceudan a mhìltean.

“An rud is deuchaineach mu dheidhinn ‘s e gu bheil na daoine aig a bheil an t-eòlas as motha air croitearachd ag aithneachadh gur e seo an duilgheadas as motha, ach an dèidh sin chan eil guth air cail a dhèanamh mu dheidhinn.

“An comhairle a bheirinnsa ‘s e toiseachadh a’ dealbh phoileasaidh an dràsta. Chan e deiligeadh le laghan croitearan an

rud as fhasa a dhèanamh, ach le comhairle laghail cheart, bu choir nithean a chur an sàs a chuireas bacadh air reic croitearan aig prìsean àrd.

“Bu chòir dhuinn sinn a dhèanamh sa bhad, agus a dhèanamh soilleir gur e rud riatanach a th’ann son Bile ùr croitearachd.”

Chruinnich mu cheud duine aig an tachartas ann an Steòrnabhagh agus bha deasbad beòthail ann fad dà là, le diofar chuspairean a’ togail ceann.

Bha àrd-oifigear Caidreachas Croitearachd na h-Alba, Donna Nic a’ Ghobhainn, gu mòr ag aontachadh ri Anndra Wightman. Thuirt i gur faodadh na molaidhean a tha ann am Bile na Croitearachd an dràsta barrachd cron a dhèanamh na feum, nuair a thig e gu bhith reic croitearan aig prìsean àrd.

“Saoileadh thu air aon sealladh gun cuidich na molaidhean, mar eisimpleir toirt cothrom dha dithis air aon chroit agus a’ dèanamh am pròiseas nas fhasa. Ach, mar a tha fios againn, na daoine aig a bheil airgead ‘s iad an dearbh fheadhainn fhathast a gheibh an cothrom as motha, agus tha sin fìor draghail.

“Tha tòrr dhaoine ag iarraidh tighinn a-steach air croitearachd, ach tha a’ mhargaidh na chnapstarra mòr. Tha e nas miosa ann an cuid a dh’àitichean na tha ann an àitichean eile, ach tha e na fhìor dhuilgheadas.

“Tha sinn feuchainn ri toirt air an Riaghaltas ruideigin a dhèanamh, bhon mur a dèan chì sinn barrachd is barrachd chroitean a’ dol ann an lamhan nan daoine cheàrr.”

Annda Wightman a' bruidhinn aig an tachartas ann an Steornabhagh

NORTHERN ISLES News

Overwhelmed crofters are being urged to tough out the hard times following mounting concerns over strict conditions for future support

By Ethan Flett

Worrying claims have been made some in the sector are so concerned by the “burden of bureaucracy” placed on them that they are considering throwing in the towel.

And the subsequent loss in crofting numbers could put at risk millions of pounds that are pumped into the Shetland economy annually through farming and crofting support.

Support paid to crofters and farmers through schemes such as Less Favoured Area Support or the Basic Payment Scheme brought a combined £10.7 million to the Shetland economy in 2023 alone.

A trickle-down effect saw much of that cash being spent in the isles.

Some £6.5 million of incoming funds was made up of the Basic Payment Scheme alone. Over £3.5 million was paid out through the Less Favoured Area Support Scheme, while a quarter of a million pounds came through the Agri Environmental Climate Scheme last year.

Farmers and crofters were paid a combined £223,260 through the Beef Calf Scheme, and an additional £185,000 through the Sheep Upland Scheme.

Osla Jamwal-Fraser of SAC Consulting said evidence was mounting to show many small-

time producers were fast reaching the conclusion they had had enough. But she urged them to “stick with it this year” to see what evolves in the future.

At the heart of the matter is the Whole Farm Plan, a wideranging series of audits and plans associated with future support.

The plan calls on producers to ensure they have carried out at least two out of five compliance measures within the next year.

It follows concerns croft abandonment may become more of a problem in Shetland in the future, despite more crofts being registered in recent months.

“I would really, really encourage people who are considering pulling out of the

support system because they are being overwhelmed by what they are being asked to do to please stick with it this year, and see what evolves out of this situation,” she said.

“We’ve outright had people say to us that they are fed up being made to feel like they are doing the wrong thing. They’re fed up with a system that doesn’t recognise the value of what they do, either in agricultural or food production terms, or in environmental – and much less so – in community terms. “We know from various sources, including the local wool brokers and the local marts, that people are talking about giving up.”

She stressed people only needed to concern themselves with

audits or plans relevant to them, although she admitted some would have to carry out the full list of five measures.

“If they’re not spraying any weedkillers of pesticides or herbicides they don’t need to do an integrated pest management plan; if they don’t have livestock they don’t need an animal health and welfare plan; if they don’t spread fertiliser or slurry they don’t need to do soil samples.”

She added much of the plan amounted to a “tickbox exercise” that would not bring anything of value to the business. “These are already people overburdened with paperwork.”

Also in the mix is the “time and energy” that people are having to dedicate to it.

“But it’s also the fact there are a lot of people who simply cannot do this stuff themselves, and they are going to have to pay advisors to support them.

“Even those who can do it for themselves – they may well be paying for a carbon auditing tool, and there are carbon auditing tools that are free, but they’re not necessarily the best things to use.

“But an awful lot of people are facing considerable compliance costs, and that disproportionately hits the smallest producers.”

Osla

Marinated Liver, Romanian Style

By Wendy Barrie

As someone who appreciates the fifth quarter (offal), liver is a favourite of mine. This particular dish was made with beef liver from Ardross Farm’s Pasture For Life cattle, born and raised on the bonnie shores of Fife and full of flavour. Often served simply grilled with a fried egg or sautéed and served in a creamy onion sauce, this liver dish is inspired by a similar dish I enjoyed on a recent visit to Harghita, a region in Transylvania. I was invited as a member of the Jury for the International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts & Tourism, and Harghita was unanimously recommended as candidate for European Region of Gastronomy 2027. This dish was served as part of a starter platter, alongside crudities, local charcuterie and cheese. I think the creaminess of the dauphinoise works well when serving this for a main course, should you wish to. If you prefer your liver hot, you can serve it warmed up but I challenge you to try this way.

Ingredients:

4 portions of lamb or beef livers, approx. 150g per person

Approx. 4tbsps sourdough breadcrumbs

1tsp dried marjoram/oregano or parsley

Blackthorn Sea Salt & a scrunch of milled black pepper

1 beaten egg

Method:

• Add herbs and seasoning to breadcrumbs and mix together.

Summer Harvest rapeseed oil for frying

1 red onion, peeled

Approx. 6tbsps craft vinegar

Half a dozen red peppercorns

3 juniper berries, crushed

• Place liver (patted dry), beaten egg and crumbs in 3 bowls. Egg and crumb each liver piece and lay on a plate. Repeat procedure if you prefer a crispy thicker coating.

• Heat a generous drizzle of oil in frying pan and add livers when the pan is hot. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until the crumbs are toasted and the liver cooked through.

• Place vinegar in a medium sized bowl. Add finely sliced red onion, peppercorns and juniper. Mix together.

• Add cooked liver portions to the bowl and baste with flavoured vinegar. Set aside. If consuming within 4 hours, leave at room temperature. If consuming later, refrigerate and use by the following evening.

The marinaded liver may be eaten at room temperature (as we did in Romania) or alternatively can be warmed in the oven when required. Whether hot or cold, lift livers and onions from marinade and serve with dauphinoise potatoes and a salad of grated raw carrot, apple and cooked beetroot.

This recipe is an excerpt from Meadows: The Swedish Farmer & The Scottish Cook by Bosse Dahlgren & Wendy Barrie

Photograph © Wendy Barrie

Our 2024 AGM

By Professor Lorna Dawson, CBE

Head of Centre of Forensic Soil Science, James Hutton Institute; KE lead for Environment, SEFARI Gateway; Commissioner, and co-Chair, Scotland, Food Farming & Countryside Commission

On Wednesday the 6th of November 2024 I had the absolute pleasure of attending the Women in Agriculture Scotland Autumn AGM event at the delightful venue, the Den at Culross, Dunfermline. I was immediately greeted with a lovely coffee and tasty scone.

After a networking session over the coffee, we were welcomed by Alix Ritchie for the AGM, with an interesting review of the events and outcomes from the last year, with examples of activities by the charming Chair Carole Brunton. We heard that at this year’s RHS Business Breakfast there were over 230 people in attendance, bringing together old and new friends.

It was great to see Iona Smith voted in as the new Chair.

Cora Cooper, the new Vice Chair, introduced the amazing Helen Rebanks, who gave a very interesting presentation and introduced us to her new book ‘The Farmers Wife’. Helen is a polymath- a farmer, businesswoman, teacher, mother, wife, conversationalist, and

also an accomplished cook. She lives in a farmhouse with her husband James, and 4 children, 6 sheepdogs, 500 sheep and 50 cattle to care for. “I am a farmer’s wife, and this is my story” she said as she held her book in the air, obviously proud of her work. She was very encouraging saying that we all have stories within us and there are lots of different ways to communicate. “Stories connect us, and we take books with us to our private places”. She wrote the book that she would have wanted to read, celebrating women wanting to work in the kitchenalthough they can feel very small at times, she said. She said that also “the chores never ended”. When casually asked the question ‘what do you do’, she replied with “at home with my husband and bringing up the next generation and learning and communicating about healthy soils and human nutrition.” Well said, Helen.

As we know one of the most important items of furniture in the farmhouse is the kitchen table where many important decisions are made. One of these was to

Laura Geyer of Land Agents Laurence Gould

Helen Rebanks author of The Farmers Wife

Iona Smith the new chairperson

Women in Agriculture

bring in Belted Galloways to mob graze the rich diverse grasslands of their farm near Ullswater. She said that cattle are an essential part of the system, from farm to fork. Helen was very proud when we saw the results of her cattle breeding with a serious win as ‘Senior Bull’! and even better that he made 20K Guineas at the Castle Douglas sale. That will help the farm business. Proud of their work in selling the belted bull, home bred entirely off grass. “Grass fed/well bred”. On their farm they operate a holistic system, it all starts with a healthy soil, not a packet from Tesco. She recommended that women share their stories more to connect, working in their own way and that mums can change the world. She said that she “writes to help me to work out what I think”.

Laura Geyer (of Land Agents Laurence Gould) presented a whole portfolio of invaluable information about the future of farm payments system in Scotland. She talked about the different tiers in the new system, and how there was a list of options, with Tier 4 ending up bring the ‘everything else’ category to include advice, KE, food processing etc. All the detail was yet to be revealed but at the moment there was payment for a couple of plans, such as biodiversity audits, soil analysis plans, carbon audits, or animal health and welfare plans. The particular type of plan chosen would be dependant upon the farm type. If you keep livestock, then the Animal Heath & Welfare Plan is required by 2028, all claimants have to have the Biodiversity and Soil Audits by 2028, and if you use pesticides (i.e. plant protection products) then the Integrated Management (IPM) Plan is required by 2028, while if you currently claim Region 1 Land that received applications of artificial fertilizers and or organic manures then the Soil analysis is required by 2028. The current system is open until December 2025, but it is important to note that PSF funding ends at the end of 2024. Laura remined everyone that it is best to get professional advice over something as important as farm payments.

The recent Scottish budget has delivered on the key direct support schemes so important to agriculture in Scotland. The return of previously deferred unallocated money from the agriculture budget will also supply much needed capital for the industry. Much to look out for in detail but overall, quite positive. That kitchen table will no doubt act as the decision-making platform for on farm discussion about farm finance.

We should be very proud of Scottish agriculture and thank the women and men in the farming community who create healthy soils, produce nutritious food, improve biodiversity, keep watercourses clear, raise high welfare animals, welcome visitors to the farm, while also protecting our iconic Scottish landscapes now and for future generations both rural and urban.

The morning was rounded off by a vote of thanks by Alix Ritchie, who invited us all for a wholesome lunch, provided by Stay Hospitality & Events, Culross.

In the afternoon we embarked upon a series of really well thought out and informative workshop sessions. The first was led by Anna Jones of ‘Just Farmers’. This organisation was set up to bring together a group of people who would share their stories. I was remined I had met Anna while we were both working for BBC Countryfile, it’s a small world. She embarked upon telling us how Crocodile Dundee was her favourite story ever, and how great stories stay with us and how humans have boded and connected through storytelling. She reminded us that we all have different perspectives on what life is like on the farm. She left the farm when she was eighteen, became an urban dweller and no longer was the ‘farm kid’. Having a foot in both the rural and urban camps, she felt she had a voice to connect both. Anna said “Find your niche and you will find your voice and its OK to look at things in a different way. Own your own story and communicate it with confidence”. I’ve now got my book to read next! To restore that divide.

Southern Belle

There's a big world out there

Despite what seemed like a year of none stop rain ranging from torrential to the kind of rain that gets you wet (as my mother would say) there was still a time for sowing and a time for reaping and remarkably it always comes right in the end.

Sowing was hampered by the weather and many fields looked like they would produce very little. The summer seemed no better, with yields down on all fruit and vegetables and, fear the grain would either not ripen or machinery would not make it to the fields. Suddenly, the sun came out and harvest was quickly brought in and despite lower-than-normal results, it still came right.

While we complain about the weather, we should remember that there are many people in the world who, for a number of years, have had no harvest because they have had no rain. We have annoying politicians but we don’t have corrupt officials with the ability to bleed a country dry while allowing illegal logging (not by farmers). People living with poor wages and no social support, whole towns dedicated to making everything from fake cars to fake whisky and countries

whose strongest export is cocaine.

The UK and Scottish governments think they are leading the world on becoming carbon neutral, against a South American country as big as the whole of Europe who have oil and gas reserves to support them indefinitely and not an electric car in site. At the same time using ethanol made from corn to fuel their cars.

Travel allows you to see the contradictions in the world from the billions of tonnes of plastic left undealt with to people living in REAL poverty with no food and no foodbanks and no support.

Travel allows us to get a wider perspective on life and its realities. Weather, world politics, global warming and plastic waste to name few.

The person who introduced me to all of these things, when she saw something in me that I didn’t see in myself, allowed me the luxury of seeing farming life all over the world. Sadly, she passed away this week at the age of 57 after a long brave battle with cancer. I will be forever grateful to my wonderful friend for the joy of seeing the world but mostly for appreciating the joy of coming home.

machinery Dealer of the year awards presented at Merlo UK conference

In November, Merlo UK hosted its annual Dealer Conference, at Crewe Hall in Cheshire, welcoming construction and agricultural dealer principals, and members of their senior teams to a two-day event filled with insightful presentations, recognition and innovation.

The conference, titled Together We Thrive, featured a wide range of topics presented by industry experts and Merlo team members including market insights from the Construction Equipment Association (CEA) and Agricultural Engineers Association (AEA) who provided valuable overviews of the current industry landscape.

Merlo’s Finance partners, DeLage Landen (DLL) outlined financing options to support both dealers and their customers, while Mattia Bodino, Global Events Manager delivered an engaging presentation about the Merlo Group.

Additionally, Merlo’s departmental teams provided key updates on Marketing, Aftersales & Parts, Training, Merlo Telematics, Product Development and Sales ensuring attendees gained a rounded understanding of the tools and strategies available to support their growth.

Shaun Groom, Merlo UK’s General Manager commented “We’ve packed a lot into our conference this year. It’s been a fantastic opportunity to share our vision for working together with our dealers, thank them for their support, and together, look forward to embracing the opportunities and innovations that lie ahead in 2025.”

The conference was also an opportunity to recognise and thank dealers for their outstanding performance and our speaker Jenny Radcliffe, also known as "The People Hacker," presented our winners with the

following awards:

• Parts Dealer of the Year: Cooks Midlands Ltd

• Service Dealer of the Year: Southwest Handling Ltd

• AG Sales Dealer of the Year: Wiltshires

• CE Sales Dealer of the Year: BH Plant Sales

• Overall Dealer of the Year:

D.A. Forgie

Long service awards were also presented to acknowledge dealer commitment to Merlo:

• 5 Years: Wm W.M. Rose & Sons Ltd

• 15 Years: Kemp Engineering

• 20 Years: Lister Wilder Ltd

• 30 Years: Ramsay & Jackson Ltd and Ancroft Tractors

BvL tannounce new higher capacity feeder at LAMMA

BvL unveiled a new higher capacity 25m3 version of the V-MIX DRIVE MAXIMUS PLUS self-propelled diet feeder at LAMMA, that also included a number of updates and new features to the specification.

Currently the BvL V-MIX DRIVE MAXIMUS PLUS range is available with either a single or twin auger with capacities ranging from 11m3 up to 21m3 and is powered by either a FPT 128hp 4-cylinder or 224hp 6-cylinder engines. As such, the new twin auger 25m3 version represents a marked step up in capacity with a resulting increase in productivity and efficiency. As with current models in the V-MIX DRIVE MAXIMUS PLUS range, the new higher capacity model features the well proven BvL loading head that is fitted with tines instead of knives to effectively comb the silage from the clamp face, so preserving its plant structure.

When loading the V-MIX DRIVE MAXIMUS PLUS at the silage clamp, the creep speed function enables the driver to set the maximum travel speed to suit his needs, allowing sensitive

control of the accelerator pedal. Fine adjustment of the speed simplifies manoeuvring at the silage face. After the diet-feeder hopper is filled, the automatic mixing system can be activated at the push of a button. There are settings for the auger speed and mixing time. The result is a consistent feed mix every day. When the set mixing time has elapsed, the augers automatically stop and the machine decreases the engine rpm to idle speed. Diesel consumption is therefore reduced as soon as the augers are switched off. Additional tasks such as cleaning the feed table or pushing in feed can be carried out at the same time, since the operator does not have to stay in the cab.

FARMING SCOTLAND MAGAZINE

Subscription page 25

ALO UK transitions to JOST GB Ltd: A new era for Quicke in Great Britain

Four years after Alo was acquired by the German-listed company JOST Werke SE, the transition takes another step forward. Alo UK and its renowned Quicke brand are now aligned under the new business area JOST Agriculture & Construction, with operations rebranded as JOST GB Ltd.

“This is a great step forward for Quicke in the UK. Our focus

on delivering the highest quality product, service and support for our UK customers and end users can now be elevated to the next level”. (James Pickering – UK Sales Manager)

Continuing a legacy of innovation under the JOST umbrella

For decades, Alo has built its reputation as one of the world’s leading manufacturers of front

loaders and implements under the Quicke brand. Since joining JOST in 2020, a global leader in safety-critical systems for commercial vehicles, Alo has continued to thrive.

“As a team we share an immense pride in being associated with the Quicke brand, its rich UK heritage and our current offering of marketleading products. The relocation

of our administrative, parts and technical support operations to the JOST GB facility near Manchester, England, gives us the opportunity to improve our service levels in all respects, react faster to our customers’ requirements and ultimately strengthen our market share position” explains James Pickering, UK Sales Manager.

Vogelsang launches new separator at LAMMA

Vogelsang’s XSplit Compact press screw separator is a smaller, more affordable option for farms looking to improve slurry management.

“The Compact features much of the same technology as the full sized XSplit model but is better suited to farms with up to 100 cows. It is a fixed separator, and, due to its compact dimensions, it can be housed more easily in smaller farm buildings and moved between buildings if necessary,” says Vogelsang’s Andy Hayhurst.

The new model will be on show for the first time in the UK at LAMMA. Capable of up to 10 m³/h the unit weighs just 875 kilos and features a 4KW power pump. Clever tine holders also offer the potential for the separator to be moved and relocated more easily if housing is split across a farm.

“Like the larger model, the Compact will separate up to 40 percent dry matter,” adds Mr Hayhurst.

The XSplit Compact features VarioAdjust, a hydraulic closure unit that provides full control over solids output, dry matter content and throughput. A pressure gauge offers precise control up to a pressure of 25 bar using the hydraulic pump and no tools are required.

“The XSplit Compact also adjusts to the amount of solids automatically, and the constant back pressure, which features a nitrogen bubble system, compensates for any fluctuations in the material being processed,” says Mr Hayhurst.

The Vogelsang stand at LAMMA also had the full size XSplit in its trailer mounter, mobile specification which is likely to appeal to contractors. This sees the XSplit mounted on to a trailer that acts as a self contained, towable unit for use in multiple locations.

The latest BlackBird and UniSpread application units will

be available to see and discuss with Vogelsang’s technical team.

“The BlackBird range has also been recently added to, with the new Light model. It is available with 12 metre and 15 metre booms and has a transport width of just 2.99 metres. It also features lighter plastic skids that have the same durability as the cast iron versions on the Pro model,” explains Mr Hayhurst.

Lynx shows first full UK installation of the new STOLL ISOBUS front loader on a new tractor at LAMMA

Visitors to the Lynx Engineering stand at LAMMA 2025 saw, for the first time in the UK, the brand new STOLL ProfiLine ISOBUS front loader fully installed and working on a new tractor.

The hydraulically controlled Stoll ISOBUS Connected loader system requires no specific loader or mid mount valves on the tractor. Instead, it delivers full integration of the front loader controls with the tractor system via the tractor’s onboard joystick and ISOBUS terminal. This means that fitting the loader and connecting it with the tractor’s existing ISOBUS control platform will take substantially less time in the workshop compared with a typical assembly routine requiring a separate, dedicated loader control system, joystick and hydraulics. Once installed, as

many as 12 additional functions become available, selectable via the tractor’s display terminal and set according to parameters defined by the operator.

Nick Ewbank, managing director of Lynx Engineering, the sole importer and distributor for Stoll in the UK and Ireland, believes that the market for the new ISOBUS compatible loader will not be limited to larger tractors. “The benefits of this new system are not confined to operators of tractors of 180hp plus. We are looking to aim at tractors from 120hp upwards where ISOBUS functionality can be specified as an option for other farm machinery operations such as diet feeders and fertiliser spreaders,” he said.

“Having a loader that can weigh meal and add up total weights could be a

distinct advantage. In addition, programmable working heights, working windows and repeatable operations can improve tractor/ loader and operator productivity on a daily basis. We will also be looking at the contractor sector where lifting and loading are

an everyday occurrence. For silage contractors who wrap and stack bales, being able to program the squeeze pressure of the bale handler on the bale without deformation will be a key feature,” he added.

Bobcat R-Series Waste Expert

Telehandlers Show Their Mettle in Waste and Recycling Markets Across EMEA

Bobcat Waste Expert telehandlers are more than proving their worth, providing outstanding material handling performance for the most demanding applications in the waste and recycling industries.

Complementing the company’s successful construction and agricultural products, Bobcat offers four Waste Expert machines, based on the TL35.70, TL34.65HF, TL38.70HF and TL43.80HF models from the company’s latest R-Series range of telehandlers. All are powered by Bobcat 74 or 101 kW (99 or 135 HP) engines and

offer lifting capacities from 3.4 to 4.3 tonne and lifting heights from 6.3 to 7.5 m.

Sturdy, Efficient and Easyto-Operate

Bobcat telehandlers are already well known as sturdy, efficient and particularly easy to operate machines and these are essential features for working in the intensive industrial applications found in the waste management and materials recycling industries.

Clement Rousseau, Product Manager for Telehandlers, commented on the Waste Expert range, saying: “The Waste

Expert range is based on our latest market-leading R-Series family of telehandlers, offering superior machines that combine all-day comfort, maximum productivity and reliability,

intelligent features, a robust build with intuitive operation and excellent 360o ergonomics.

“Waste and recycling businesses need versatile machines that can handle a large variety of

tasks, manoeuvre well in tight spaces and provide maximum efficiency in full safety throughout the working day. With the toughest design on the market, impressive bucket breakout forces, efficient

cooling systems, a low centre of gravity and a long wheel base to enhance stability and lift capacity, our Waste Expert Telehandlers are ideally suited for the waste and recycling markets.”

Tramspreads’ new 1400m hose reeler

Slurry and digestate management specialist Tramspread has added a new larger-capacity random wrap hose reeler to its extensive range. The new model, which will be shown for the first time in the UK at LAMMA 2025, is designed to handle bigger diameter spools which can comfortably accommodate 1400m of 5” or 1200m of 6” diameter drag hose.

“This introduction is primarily in response to customer demand,” explains Tramspread sales manager James Peachey. “Everything is steadily getting larger, and we had already increased from 600m to 1000m, so we see 1400m as a natural progression. We’ve had requests from the continent, and the first five off the production line have already been sold to France, but it is now available in the UK too.”

To accommodate the larger diameter spools the main frame has been enlarged and strengthened. The three-point linkage frame is also heavier, and the linkage brackets have been lowered to give additional lift height. The heavy-duty twin hydraulic motor drive system from the 1000m reeler has been retained.

A new optional light bar can now be fitted above the reel and encompasses side lights and indicators which operate with the tractor’s lights whilst a remotecontrol fob is used to switch main beam and dip beam headlights and a central worklight bar. This bar also serves as a safety device to stop couplings from potentially damaging the tractor if the reel is operated too quickly. This new introduction will also be available for the 1000m reeler.

“The larger reeler and spool with 1400m of 5” drag hose weighs around three tonnes, so it needs a tractor of at least 250hp with an appropriate front linkage lift capacity to handle it properly,” points out James. “We are happy to

accommodate customer demands with regard to colour, we recently finished some 1400m reelers in grey for a French contractor. We have also changed the design of the Contractor Trailer to accommodate the larger spools.”

A wear part solution that meets today's challenges

With increasing demands for efficiency, sustainability and longevity in agriculture, SAMSON is launching the new ENDURO wear part series. The series sets new standards for both durability and performance, and the first product in the series is the TSB Centre Blade, developed for SAMSON's trailing shoe boom. With a lifetime that is 3 to 7 times longer than traditional wear parts, ENDURO TSB Centre Blade is a step towards more efficient and economical operations for both farmers and agricultural contractors.

Reduced maintenance and improved operating efficiency

TSB Centre Blade is designed to handle even the most demanding working conditions, whether it's highly abrasive soil or long operating times. TSB Centre Blade means fewer replacements, reducing both maintenance costs and downtime. For farmers and agricultural contractors, this means less time spent on maintenance and fewer interruptions - resulting in increased productivity and better economy.

A product for modern agriculture

With TSB Centre Blade, SAMSON is supporting the needs of today's agriculture:

efficient operation, economy and sustainability. The ENDURO series is an important step in SAMSON's mission to deliver products that combine high performance and durability while contributing to a greener future.

Groundbreaking technology with tungsten carbide

TSB Centre Blade is equipped with tungsten carbide reinforcements, which are known for extremely high wear resistance. This carbide metal is ideal for demanding applications such as slurry application as it resists wear, corrosion and high

loads. The technology ensures a long service life, reducing the need for frequent replacements and improving overall operational efficiency. Tungsten carbide makes ENDURO TSB Centre Blade the perfect solution for farmers and agricultural contractors looking for high performance and reliability. Wear parts with improved functionality and design

TSB Centre Blade has a protected design and a wear indicator that shows when the product reaches the end of its lifetime. This feature makes it easier to schedule replacements to minimise maintenance time.

In addition, the intelligent design ensures that the surface pressure remains the same over the entire lifetime. T terminal. This means that fitting the loader and connecting it with the tractor’s existing ISOBUS control platform will take substantially less time in the workshop compared with a typical assembly routine requiring a separate, dedicated loader control system, joystick and hydraulics. Once installed, as many as 12 additional functions become available, selectable via the tractor’s display terminal and set according to parameters defined by the operator.

Nick Ewbank, managing director of Lynx Engineering, the sole importer and distributor for Stoll in the UK and Ireland, believes that the market for the new ISOBUS compatible loader will not be limited to larger tractors. “The benefits of this new system are not confined to operators of tractors of 180hp plus. We are

looking to aim at tractors from 120hp upwards where ISOBUS

functionality can be specified as an option for other farm machinery

operations such as diet feeders and fertiliser spreaders,” he said.

New LEMKEN Diamant 18: A robust semimounted reversible plough

The LEMKEN Diamant series has been synonymous with reliability and performance in modern agriculture for many years. Since the Diamant 16 was launched six years ago, it is a successful machine “Made in the Lower Rhine”. Semimounted reversible ploughs are still a key tool for large agricultural businesses. Whether for traditional in-furrow ploughing or, increasingly, for on-land ploughing, whether used as a stand-alone machine or in combination with a furrow press – the Diamant series has always offered a wide range of applications to meet individual farm requirements for shallow or deep tillage.

The demanding environment in which agricultural businesses operate calls for high

performance implements. To demonstrate that the Diamant plough series continues to stand for power and reliability, LEMKEN will be presenting a new model at EIMA in Bologna: the Diamant 18. With this innovative machine, the plough specialist is addressing an additional target group.

Powerful performance in extreme conditions

With its 5 to 8 furrows and a solid 180 x 180 x 12.5 mm box section frame, the robust Diamant 18 is specially designed for large tractors up to 650 hp and extreme operating conditions. The new LEMKEN plough performs particularly well on dry soils thanks to its optimum soil penetration and stable design. This is not only due to

its increased weight, but also to the updated wheel position. To make the best possible use of the extra frame weight for optimum soil penetration, the support wheel is now located behind the base frame. As a result, the plough bodies penetrate the soil reliably and maintain the desired working depth consistently.

CC Agri Ltd joins Merlo Agricultural Dealer Network

As part of Merlo UK’s continued investment and commitment to its agricultural dealer network, we are pleased to announced that Norfolk-based Chris Coleman Agricultural Engineering (CC Agri) has officially taken on the Merlo franchise, effective 1st October.

“This strategic appointment underscores Merlo UK’s commitment to providing our agricultural sector customers with strong and comprehensive coverage across North and West Norfolk, Cambridgeshire and South Lincolnshire”, commented Owen Buttle, National Sales Manager, Merlo UK, “We are delighted to welcome CC Agri to the Merlo dealer network.”

Founded in 2021, CC Agri has been delivering engineering support to their customers on

a wide range of machinery.

Starting from humble beginings, initially servicing sugar beet harvesters, the company has since grown to include four highly trained engineers and a full time salesman. Despite this rapid expansion, CC Agri remains committed to providing a personal and professional service.

“We are thrilled by this partnership with Merlo,” said Chris Coleman, Managing Director of CC Agri “Joining the Merlo dealer network and adding a telehandler franchise to our product range enables us to enhance our existing product offerings and provide our customers with even greater value and service. We look forward to a successful collaboration.”

New Features/Options for Develon DL-7 Wheel Loader Range

Comprising eleven models, running from the smallest DL200-7, through to the topof-the-range DL580-7 model, the DL-7 range is designed to provide easier and faster loading with maximum bucket capacities from 2.0 to 6.4 m3, providing increased productivity for a very wide range of material-handling applications. These include the transport and delivery of soil, sand, aggregates and other materials in industry, recycling, waste, construction, demolition, mining and quarrying. Develon also offers a wide choice of options to provide more work tools for a better match with applications, further increasing output.

One of the most important changes in the DL-7 range is the new parallel lift system now adopted as standard in the six smallest models from the DL200-7 to the DL380-7. These wheel loaders now feature a parallel lift system with electro-hydraulic compensation, specifically designed to maintain the horizontal alignment of the pallet forks during lifting. This advanced system automatically adjusts the forks to stay level as they move up and down, ensuring loads remain stable and securely balanced. Ideal for precise pallet handling, Parallel Lift simplifies loading and unloading operations and reduces the risk of spillage or damage. This enhancement

not only improves safety but also increases productivity, allowing operators to handle materials with greater confidence and efficiency in any working environment. Another upgrade for all the models in the DL-7 range is a comprehensive Full LED Lighting Pack designed to improve visibility, safety and operator comfort. This new package includes advanced LED work lights, which provide powerful illumination for optimum visibility during night shifts or in low light conditions, ensuring tasks are completed safely and efficiently.

FARMING SCOTLAND MAGAZINE

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BOSS lines up for LAMMA

BOSS Off-Road Vehicles will be at the LAMMA agricultural show to showcase the latest addition to their line-up. The PathCross ATV is described by its manufacturer, AODES, as its newest sensation and a trailblazer in their off-road series. The PathCross boasts a modular design and a choice of several models featuring V-Twin engines in 650cc, 1000cc and the new single cylinder 525cc displacements. The main features include an Active Emission Cooling (AEC) system, superior ground clearance and suspension travel, hydraulic breaking operating four-wheel disc brakes, and an adjustable front and automatic rear differential system. BOSS says the PathCross complements the range of vehicles they distribute and support in the UK.

The Corvus Terrain range comprises the EX4 100% electric 4x4 utility vehicle and DX4 rugged diesel UTV. The Terrain is designed from the ground up for agriculture, groundscare, forestry, and construction work. The Powerland Tachyon is a complete, fully electric

(Li-ion) road-legal ATV with tractor homologation, and environmental benefits. The Paxster range features allelectric, compact, and agile utility vehicles suited to an exceptionally wide range of applications. Built for sustainability, they are available

as new, and 2nd Drive last nut and bolt factory refurbished models. Faunamaster products include multifunctional and timesaving compact seed drills, sprayers, and flail mowers designed for use with an ATV, UTV, or tractor. BOSS also distributes the Air-ROPS AR-

QUAD, an automatic rollover protection system for ATVs that expands when the rollover is irreversible. It provides, they say, the highest level of protection and the most ergonomic solution on the market. BOSS Off-Road Vehicles are on Stand 6.830 at LAMMA.

Fendt launches new machinery at LAMMA

LAMMA 2025 will be the first showing of the new Fendt 600 Vario and will mark the UK launch of the new generation of Fendt Former rakes. The Fendt stand will include the new 920C Former, the Gen 1 600 Vario, and a further selection of tractors including the Gen7 728 Vario. Another LAMMA first will be the chance to see Fendt’s Corus 5275C straw walker which features unique ParaLevel technology.

“LAMMA is a centrepiece of agricultural machinery in the UK and is the perfect opportunity for Fendt to show the new tractors and machinery that is available. Our stand demonstrates the strength in depth we have, and we welcome all visitors who want to talk about their machinery needs with our specialists,” says Fendt’s Ed Dennett.

The top model Fendt 620 Profi+ offers 209hp from its 4-cylinder, 5-litre AGCO Power CORE50 engine that also features a DynamicPerformance system which can provide an additional 15hp regardless of forward speed.

“The 600 Vario spans a gap in traditional tractor ranges. It is a superb all-rounder that, despite having a compact shape, can be used for towing heavy loads, carrying front tanks or operating heavy mounted implements. It can reach a top speed of 50 km/h at 1,250 rpm and offers 950 Nm from 1,200 rpm to 1,600 rpm. It is also very manoeuvrable, providing a turning circle of just 10.2 metres,” adds Mr Dennett.

Fendt’s C-Series range of straw walkers includes two 6-cylinder engines from AGCO Power. With a cubic capacity of 7.4 l (5275 C) and 8.4 l (6335 C),

they deliver a maximum output of 306 hp (5275 C) and 360 hp (6335 C) respectively.

The 5275C model at LAMMA features ParaLevel, a unique function that stabilises the combine on undulating and hilly land. Based on a parallelogram, it can compensate for slopes of up to 20%. This means the combine can operate at maximum output whilst the threshing unit, separating and cleaning systems remain horizontal.

The Former rake and Rotana MY25 baler are new to

Fendt’s expanding grassland machinery range. The two-rotor Former features six models with working widths from 6.9 to 10 metres that include SteerGuard, a patented technology which improves manoeuvrability, and a double swing arm on the rotor suspension which have the option of being coupled to ISOBUS for greater connectivity, memory functions and section control.

The Rotana combi round balers have been updated and will soon be available with moisture analysis or a weighing

function. Profi models also include a link to Fendt’s Tractor Implement Management System (TIM) to automatically stop after the binding process and also automatically eject the bale.

“The diversity of Fendt’s range reflects the diversity of farming machinery needed in the UK. From the 600 Vario, that will be appealing to a broad range of farms, to our grassland and harvesting machinery, we hope visitors to LAMMA will have plenty to discuss with our product specialists,” says Mr Dennett.

Carr’s Billington takes on the Merlo brand

Merlo UK is proud to announce that, effective 9th December, Carr’s Billington, headquartered in Carlisle, will represent the Merlo brand in Cumbria and the North East, covering depots in Carlisle, Hexham, and Morpeth. This marks the beginning of an exciting and strategic partnership between two trusted names in the agricultural industry.

Carr’s Billington supplies an extensive range of farming and agricultural solutions, serving customers with dedication and expertise. With a strong reputation for customer service and a commitment to quality, Carr’s Billington is an ideal partner to represent Merlo’s innovative range of telehandlers.

Owen Buttle, National Sales Manager at Merlo UK, noted; “Carr’s Billington is a trusted supplier of leading agricultural

brands, and this partnership represents Merlo’s continued commitment to strengthening its

dealer network, and providing agriculture customers, across the North of England with strong and comprehensive coverage. We are delighted to welcome Carr’s Billington to the Merlo dealer network.” He continued, “As well as sales and installations, Carr’s Billington offers exceptional service, repairs as well as stocking a wide range of fast-moving parts. This level of support ensures customers receive the best experience with their Merlo products.”

Reflecting on the new partnership, Tom Jobling, Machinery Director at Carr’s Billington, added: "Following a thorough evaluation of suppliers and key brands, we are excited to add the Merlo product range to fill a gap and strengthen our portfolio. The Merlo agreement is a significant addition to our range and presents exciting opportunites for our customers. We look forward to expanding our offering and forging a successful partnership with Merlo.”

New HORSCH

Avatar LC increases capacity

HORSCH has announced a new model in the Avatar drill family with increased capacity and the ability to deliver up to 4 separate components.

The Avatar 12.25 LC comes as standard with a 9400-litre triple tank that is split 50:15:35. In addition, a HORSCH MiniDrill with a 400-litre capacity can also be mounted to the drill. Available as a 12m

model only, the Avatar LC offers a 3000 litre increase over the 12m Avatar SD.

The seed wagon layout increases the drilling window with the large tyre widths reducing compaction even in wet soil conditions. The double support wheels at the wings ensure low tracks and optimum adaption to the soil. With its 1-row design of SingleDisc

coulters and a row spacing of 25cm, the Avatar 12.25 LC is ideal for mechanical population control and for different sowing methods, such as direct seed, mulch seed and into standing catch crops.

Thanks to the well-proven folding design, the transport dimensions are very compact with an outside width of 3 metres for road transport.

Avatar family

The Avatar is the direct drilling expert that is flexible, robust and precise. It can be used universally from direct drilling to cultivated soils. The high coulter pressure of up to 350 kg per individual row and maintenance-free bearings ensure a reliable and effective performance. Depth control at the individual coulter and adjustable closing wheels result in precision drilling in a wide range of conditions.

The Avatar SD is available from 3m to 8m working widths with a 16cm row spacing, and

8m to 18m with a 25cm row spacing. The Avatar SL is a 6m mounted model with 25cm or

30cm row spacing that operates in combination with the HORSCH Partner FT front tank.

CLAAS UK joint ‘Dealer of the Year’ winners

This year has seen two family owned dealerships, RICKERBY and GORDONS, being awarded the prestigious CLAAS UK ‘Dealer of the Year’ 2024 Award.

The CLAAS UK ‘Dealer of the Year’ award recognises the high overall level of performance by a CLAAS dealer in the UK and Ireland in four key areas: market share, customer satisfaction, dealer standards and financial benchmarking, and in all these respects both RICKERBY and GORDONS excelled.

With nine branches serving an area from Lancashire and Northumberland up to the Firth of Forth in Scotland, RICKERBY is CLAAS UKs largest dealership. Established in 1865, GORDONS is one of the UK’s oldest dealerships and are based at Castle Douglas in Dumfries & Galloway, with five

branches covering the South West of Scotland.

The award is a major achievement for both dealerships as it assesses not only the dealership’s overall performance, but the performance of each of their individual branches. The award also reflects the results of the annual Customer Feedback Survey and their high scores again reflects on their commitment to their customer base and the first class customer care service each provide.

In addition to their ‘Dealer of the Year’ award, RICKERBY were also awarded the ‘Dealer Excellence Award – Gold’ in recognition of the high level of service and support that RICKERBY offer their customers.

The announcement and presentation of the awards to

Neil Montgomery of GORDONS and Ken Conley of RICKERBY were made at the CLAAS Dealer

Council

FARMING SCOTLAND MAGAZINE

Next issue out March 2025

meeting, held recently at the CLAAS Tractor factory in Le Mans, France.

Rickerby Gordons

Livestock farmers in Less Favoured Area could see profits cut in half with new delinked payments

The recent Budget announcements sent shockwaves through many rural businesses across the UK, and now data from Knight Frank shows that the drastic reduction of the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) will have the biggest impact on Less Favoured Area (LFA) farmers.

Defra will apply a 76% reduction to the first £30,000 or less of a BPS payment, and a 100% reduction to anything above this. For 2025, the top 4% of recipients will receive no more than £8,000. However, for most farming businesses £7,200 will be the highest value direct payment they will receive next year.

Now called delinked payments, the 2023 scheme year was the last year of BPS. Based on each farming business’s average of the 202022 BPS payment, the delinked payments started in 2024, and will progressively reduce over 2025/26, ending completely in 2027.

To look at the areas they can best support their clients through this transitional phase, the AgriConsultancy team at Knight Frank have compared average profit and loss figures from the Farm Business Survey 2022 and have updated the figures to show the replacement delinked payment income in 2025.

The team looked at four English farm types - cereals, LFA grazing livestock, lowland grazing livestock, and mixed farms, and compared income from:

• agriculture

• agri-environmental schemes

• diversifications

• BPS or delinked payment

Simon Britton, Head of AgriConsultancy at Knight Frank,

said: “LFA livestock farms are set to be harder hit due to their historically higher proportion of income from BPS in comparison to other farm types, resulting in them now losing 45% of their bottom-line profit with the new subsidy reduction plans.

“Although not quite as much as the LFA farms, all the farm types that we have examined will be negatively impacted by the sharp drop in payments. Cereal farmers can expect a 24% drop in profit, lowland livestock farms 26%, and mixed farms 34%.

“Clearly, to ensure these farming businesses remain sustainable and future-proof, there should be an urgency to fill the gaps in income and more importantly they should take this opportunity to review their business and understand its cost base in order to maximise profitability.

“The government announced that the rapid reduction in direct payments was a means to open up funding for schemes that have increased environmental or sustainability attachments, yet

we’ve heard from Defra that the Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier scheme will only offer extensions or mirror agreements, some of which date back to 2005, leaving businesses with limited opportunities to enter new schemes.

“There needs to be more clarity on how farming businesses, especially those in the uplands, are expected to survive if the drop in BPS and the roll-out of new schemes are not aligned.”

LFA was established in 1975 to provide support to hill farming areas where the geology, altitude and climate was deemed to put these farmers at a disadvantage compared to lowland farmers.

In 2022, of all farm types, LFA farms had the highest proportion of annual income from BPS at 62% with lowland livestock farms 47%, mixed farms 44%, and cereal farms 30%.

According to Knight Frank’s data, assuming other streams of income remain the same, the average English LFA livestock

farm profit will reduce from £42,881 in 2022 to £23,584 in 2025.

While not seeing the same levels of diminishing overall profit, the average English cereal farm received £35,868 of BPS in 2022 and will now receive the maximum of £7,200 in 2025, so in real terms losing the most.

Henry Clemons, Associate specialising in grant funding at Knight Frank, said: “These figures are not to be ignored. For the long-term sustainability of the industry, it’s vital that businesses are supported in the transition away from direct payments and are introduced to specific grant systems that work for the area they are based in, the farm type they are on, and its potential for growth.

“In order for us to support clients to do this, we need the government to be more forthcoming with schemes that are well thought out and designed to assist farming business to improve long term financial and environmental sustainability.”

The Country Store

Olive Green Mens Jacket

TorraMor's Men's Jacket is proudly made in Britain, blending heritage and craftsmanship with rugged practicality. Designed to tackle the toughest conditions, it's crafted from durable, weatherproof ripstop material that stands up to the demands of rural life. It features reinforced stitching, roomy packets, and adjustable details for the perfect fit. Whether you are in a field or heading into town, the jacket offers unmatched durability and timeless British Style. Available in 3 colours to suit every walk of life.

£369 inc VAT website www.torramor.com

Hoggs of Fife Green King II Bib & Braces

- Built for Hard Work

The Green King II Bib & Braces from Hoggs of Fife combine exceptional waterproof protection and durability, making them a must-have for farmers, gamekeepers, and outdoor professionals.

100% Waterproof and Breathable –Keeps you dry and comfortable in the worst conditions.

Reinforced Knees – Extra durability for tough, active work.

Adjustable Fit – Shoulder straps ensure flexibility and comfort all day.

Practical Storage – Generous pockets for tools and essentials.

For winter, the Thermal Bib & Braces deliver unbeatable warmth with thermal insulation and a practical zip fly, keeping you protected when the temperature drops.

Both designs are unisex, hard-wearing, practical, and built to tackle the demands of rural life.

Discover the Green King II range at Wild & Moor.

The standard waterproof version is £71.95 (rrp £79.95) in the sale and the Thermal waterproof set is £89.95 (rrp £99.95)

Visit www.wildandmoor.co.uk to gear up for the season ahead.

Unisex fleece smock

Our unisex fleece smock comes in 3 colours, Navy, Green and limited edition Burgundy. The smock is made in Britain from robust fleece and is the perfect midlayer for over the winter months. It is a key wardrobe staple to pop on for an early morning dog walk, dropping the kids off at school or out on the farm. Available from sizes XS to XXL.

£108 inc VAT website www.torramor.com

Wild & Moor Winter Clearance

Sale:

Gear Up for the Cold Season with Big Discounts!

Wild & Moor, the countryside lifestyle brand known for its commitment to quality, has launched its Winter Clearance Sale. Whether you’re braving the chill for work on the farm or heading out for frosty winter walks, now’s the time to stock up on essential gear with fantastic discounts across their range.

Highlights of the Sale….

25% Off All Wellington Boots: Stay dry and comfortable, no matter the mud or rain.

Crispi Boots – Limited Stock Remaining: Don’t miss out on premium outdoor footwear, perfect for long days in the field or on rugged terrain.

Woolpower Merino Wool Clothing: Enjoy 25% off this natural, sustainable thermal wear, renowned for its exceptional warmth and durability.

Hoggs of Fife Clothing: Discounts available on trusted, high-quality workwear and outerwear for hardworking professionals.

SPERAS LED Torches: Brighten up the darkest mornings and evenings with discounted SPERAS torches – ideal for farm work and outdoor adventures.

Don’t wait – these deals won’t last long!

Visit wildandmoor.co.uk to explore the Winter Sale and gear up for the season ahead.

events

Tractor Show Spectacular Roaring Back

Bigger and Better for Spring 2025

Grab your calendar because there’s a springtime spectacular on the horizon that’s guaranteed to banish the winter blues! A firm favourite with fans of farming, trucking, classic models and amazing machinery alike, the Tractor World Show is all set for Malvern’s Three Counties Showground on Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd February 2025.

This years’ show is bigger and better than ever, offering more space, facilities, exhibitors, trade stands, displays, demonstrations and bargains than ever before, all included in the admission price. This includes taking over the showground’s brand new Kildare Hall, bringing the number of spacious exhibition halls to four for the very first time, plus acres of outdoor hardstanding.

They’ll be hundreds of vintage, veteran, new and classic tractors, vans, stationary engines, classic commercials, lorries, trucks, Land Rovers and vintage vehicles, historic farm machinery and agricultural heritage displays. Don’t forget the wide range of horticultural and gardening equipment, including classic and modern ride-on mowers.

Open from 9am each day, Saturday sees specialist agricultural auctioneers H J Pugh & Co presiding over the popular live auction. With over 1,000 expected lots including over 100

tractors plus machinery, parts, tools and spares, it’s a mustattend for sellers, buyers and seekers alike. Sunday welcomes the brand new Outdoor Vintage Autojumble, dedicated to “strictly second hand” motoring themed bygones, collectables and memorabilia, so get scouring that shed, or making that list!

Whether you’re seeking tools and garage equipment, tyres, workwear, clothing, books, gifts and toys you’ll be spoiled for choice at a wide range of trade stands. Take a break from shopping and browse the displays and exhibits, and trade tips and stories with fellow enthusiasts at the club stands.

If “small is beautiful”, you’ll be sporting a big grin at 2025’s expanded “miniature model” section and if size matters, why not show off your own pride and joy at Sunday’s popular Classic Commercial Drive-in Day? Easy to find with brown signs from all major routes, you’ll find ample free parking, disabled, coach

and weekend camping facilities. With two heated restaurants, coffee lounge, numerous outdoor catering stands and onsite cashpoint, you’ll stay comfortable, refreshed and

open to temptation, whatever the weather.

Great for gifting, buying a Christmas present or treating yourself, discounted tickets

are on sale now at www. tractorworldshow.co.uk Dogs on leads and accompanied children under 15 are so welcome, they all get free entry!

Find all show details at www. tractorworldshow.co.uk and “Tractor World Show” on Facebook.

RHASS Launches Search for New Generation of Royal Highland Show Stewards

RHASS (the Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland) is calling on new talent to join its pool of over 150 dedicated Stewards who help run its biggest annual fundraising event, the Royal Highland Show.

The charity is seeking to encourage new participants, particularly those who would like to get involved in the Show and play an active role in shaping the future of the prestigious agricultural event.

Stewarding provides a unique opportunity to directly contribute to Scotland’s most iconic agricultural event, meet industry professionals, and build meaningful connections within the community. Whether you are an experienced member of a livestock breed society, have been involved in your local young farmers or show or are an enthusiastic member of the agricultural community, stewarding provides the perfect platform to grow your expertise and be part of a larger network within the sector.

As the Royal Highland Show continues to grow and evolve, new systems and technologies are being introduced. The recruitment of a new generation of Stewards will not only help to uphold the legacy of the Show but bring valuable fresh perspectives.

Colin Dargie, Crop Production Manager & Deputy General Manager at East of Scotland Farmers Ltd, who has been a Steward at the show for over two decades, shared his journey:

"I first stewarded Herefords at the Highland Show in 1997, taking my father’s place when he couldn’t attend. My real apprenticeship began in 2003 in the Commercial Cattle Ring, where I’ve been ever since. It was my Uncle Ian who got me involved, and I realised just how important it was to pass on the knowledge. Without new stewards, there would be no one left to fill our shoes."

Many stewards have progressed to leadership roles within RHASS, including becoming Directors. For those interested in a longterm commitment to the show, stewarding provides a clear career pathway.

Catriona Brown, Competitions Manager at RHASS said: "Stewarding is at the heart of the Royal Highland Show. It's more than just managing the rings. Stewards are critical to the successful running of the event. We look forward to bringing in fresh talent who can carry on the legacy and take the show forward for generations to come."

Those who exhibit livestock or participate in other aspects of the show can still commit to stewarding, upholding their duties on the days they are not showing. Whether you're an industry-newcomer or someone with extensive livestock experience, the role can be adapted to suit your needs and is the perfect environment to develop new skills, including building expertise in event management, communication, and problem-solving.

Colin added: “Through stewarding, I’ve learned to juggle multiple tasks and react quickly when things go wrong, all while ensuring that everyone involved has the best possible experience.

“It’s a rewarding role that enhances your connection to the event and the community. There is no doubt I’ve met a lot of great people through stewarding over the years - judges, directors, stewards and competitors alike. I’d call them my friends for life!

“Giving a little of your time can make a big difference – it’s all the hard work behind the scenes that makes the RHS the success it always has been and always will be.”

RHASS encourages individuals, particularly those with ties to

livestock societies or agricultural clubs, to consider stewarding as a way to deepen their involvement in the Show while gaining valuable career and personal development experience.

If you’re ready to become part of the next generation of stewards and play a vital role in the future of the Royal Highland Show, RHASS invites you to apply. This is a unique chance to give back to Scotland’s agricultural community while enhancing your skills and building lasting connections. To learn more about stewarding at the Royal Highland Show and how you can get involved, visit: https://www. royalhighlandshow.org/tradecompetitions/competitions/ stewards/

FARMING SCOTLAND MAGAZINE

issue out March 2025

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

Blair Allan

G T Bunning & Sons has strengthened its team with the appointment of Blair Allan to area sales manager for Scotland, the north of England and Northern Ireland.

Blair’s appointment fills a newly created position that highlights Bunning’s commitment to providing high quality service and support to its dealers and customers. Blair’s background is well suited to the role, after growing up on a family dairy farm near Loch Lomond, and he has held several product support and sales positions at dealers and manufacturers in both agriculture and plant.

Most notably, his dealership roles at HRN and James Gordon offered him direct experience with Bunning spreaders, and he explains the quality of Bunning’s products attracted him to the role.

Tim Walters

Massey Ferguson is delighted to announce that Tim Walters has been appointed as the new Brand Manager for Massey Ferguson, UK & Ireland.

Tim joined the company in 2014 as Sales Support Specialist for FUSE. Following this, he has worked as Area Sales Manager and Harvesting National Sales Manager before his role as Manager of Sales Support & Product Marketing UK and Ireland, leading a team of four sales support specialists. Officially starting his new role on December 1st 2024, Tim will head-up the UK & Ireland sales and marketing team.

Robbie Polson

OPICO Limited is delighted to announce the recent promotion of Robbie Polson to Commercial Director. Robbie joined OPICO as Business Development Manager in 2022, he has also spent time working at OPICO’s sister company Stocks Ag whilst being involved in a number of projects across both businesses.

Robbie has been instrumental in bringing distribution of the Alpego and Ovlac brands to OPICO and now, having spent the past 2 years thoroughly getting to know the people, brands, products, dealers and customers has been appointed Commercial Director at OPICO. This new role encompasses the management of the UK Sales team alongside strategic involvement as part of the senior management team.

Will Cruse & Martin Little

KUHN Farm Machinery has strengthened its UK regional teams, appointing Will Cruse as an area sales manager covering the East of England, and Martin Little as bedding and feeding specialist for Northern England and Scotland.

The two additions will provide extra support to KUHN’s dealer network in key areas. Will is from a family arable farm in Hertfordshire and spent several years as a product manager for a well-known tractor and combine manufacturer. The East of England area includes Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex and parts of Hertfordshire and Lincolnshire.

THE BOOK SHELF

The Highlands and Islands of Scotland

by Alistair Moffat

Alistair Moffat is perhaps Scotland’s best known popular history writer, and this time he has set his sights on the ambitious undertaking of telling a new history of the Highlands and Islands. His recently released book, The Highlands and Islands of Scotland brings to life the major events and figures who have shaped the history of this iconic region.

In the introduction to the book, Moffat clarifies that his framework for tackling the vast breadth of Highland history is to arrange it ‘much like a mosaic, a long frieze illustrating a journey from the primeval and the prehistoric to the present day.’ This approach makes the writing both captivating and accessible, the narrative flowing chronologically from early times to now. At the heart of every story and key landmark moment explored in the book are the people who dwell in the Highlands and Islands, from the very first to arrive after the ice retreated in the Palaeolithic era to present-day residents.

Moffat also pays specific attention to how both geography and language have shaped the region’s unique history. He uses Gaelic place names, often delving into fascinating detail about their meanings, how the original names describe the geographic features of the places they refer to. There are historical events within this

comprehensive book which will be incredibly familiar, such as the Jacobite Rebellion or the Highland Clearances, but Moffat revisits these moments with his own perspective, bringing in different elements and making them feel fresh and newly thought-provoking.

Woven throughout stories both new and recognisable are Alistair Moffat’s own personal experiences, tying in his various journeys throughout the country to the geographical, political and social history he is sharing. This comes as no surprise to a reader already familiar with his work, as Moffat has earned the nickname ‘the scholarly hiker’ from his practise of walking in the footsteps of the subjects he is writing about. In most of his nonfiction, he tends to visit key places in person, and then share his impression of the place and experience visiting it. These moments in the book are beautifully rendered, bringing a liveliness that can sometimes be lacking in historical books.

Indeed, Moffat’s style of writing ensures that the reader feels as though they are there too, not just an observer of Highland and Island history, but almost a part of its rich tapestry. The Highlands and Islands of Scotland is an impressive anthology of history from one of the country’s most recognisable regions and a true celebration of the culture and resilience of the Scottish people.

The Highlands and Islands of Scotland by Alistair Moffat was published by Birlinn in June 2024 (£25) www.birlinn.co.uk

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