Farming Scotland Magazine (Nov-December 2011)

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www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

Current to the end of DECEMBER 2011

ATV’s • DIET FEEDERS ROYAL HIGHLAND WINTER FAIR • TEXEL SHEEP SOCIETY plus Product Focus on BIOCELL AGRI FLAVOUR OF SCOTLAND with HIGHLAND FINE CHEESES plus new FLAVOUR HOMEGROWN ‘self sufficiency’ adventure of SCOTLAND R ea der Competitio ARABLE • RENEWABLE ENERGY • LIVESTOCK n page 43 SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY • GADGETS • FINANCE FUTURE FARMER • MACHINERY • BOOK REVIEW

Seasons to be jolly

Come skiing in Scotland. Actually it felt like we could have done that in July never mind November! I always find it strange how the BBC News tell us about the slopes of France, Switzerland etc., but never seems to remember that we have a great tourist trap right here in Scotland which has provided some of the best skiing in Europe for the last few years.

Ah, even in the media, it seems that it’s all about location, location, location?

Now I know that skiing doesn’t do a lot for farmers, but farmers need to take a break too don’t they?

And what better way of getting away from all the work stress than taking a holiday right here in Scotland in winter?

We have the best food, stunning wild landscapes, wonderful whisky and the weather!

And a lot of this is due to the work of farmers all over the country producing great local produce for us all to enjoy – no matter the weather outside.

Winter is a time of planning ahead, that’s for sure. But it is also a time to enjoy the good things in life, and with such a bounty on our doorstep here in Scotland, I am happy to promote the stay-at-homeholiday boom.

Go to any farmhouse B&B and you will no doubt experience one of the best breakfasts of your life – I know I have. So let’s gear it for the farmers of Scotland, the produce of Scotland, and the wonderful place that is Scotland in the winter. Wild but lovely.

May I wish you a happy Christmas and a good new year to you all when it comes.

Athole

PUBLISHER/EDITOR Athole Murray Fleming E-mail: mail@farmingscotlandmagazine.com Email: athole@atholedesign.com ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Athole Murray Fleming Tel. 01738 639747 ADVERTISING SALES Barry Tweed Tel. 01738 563025 PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Christina Fleming Email: christina@atholedesign.com PUBLISHER’S NOTES COPYRIGHT This publication has been produced and published by ATHOLE DESIGN & PUBLISHING LTD who are the copyright owners. No reproduction, copying, image scanning, storing or recording of any part of this publication without the permission of ATHOLE DESIGN & PUBLISHING LTD. SUPPLIED MATERIAL ATHOLE DESIGN & PUBLISHING LTD does not accept any liability for loss or damage to supplied film transparencies, photographs or other such promotional material.

FARMING SCOTLAND MAGAZINE is designed, produced and published by Athole Design & Publishing Ltd.

Tolastadh, 18 Corsie Drive, Kinnoull, Perth, Scotland PH2 7BU. Tel. 01738 639747 E-mail: mail@farmingscotlandmagazine.com Website: www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

December 2011

CONTENTS

publisher TALK

Main Features ATV’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Winter Fair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Texel Sheep . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Diet Feeders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

10-17 20-21 24-25 30-35

Product Focus Biocell Agri . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Flavour of Scotland Highland Fine Cheeses . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Homegrown Self sufficiency in a micro garden . . . . 8

Readers Competition & Taster Three cheeses to win! . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Regular Columns Crofting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 NFU of Scotland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Scottish Government . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 The Vet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Finance Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Farming for the Climate . . . . . . . . . . 47 People on the Move . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Book Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

News Section Arable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7 Potatoes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-19 Science & Technology . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Dairy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-27 Livestock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36-41 Gadgets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Future Farmer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Finance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44-46 Renewable Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Machinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48-53

SUBSCRIBE TO FARMING SCOTLAND MAGAZINE SUBSCRIPTION. Call 01738 639747 to arrange mailing directly to your home or business only £15 per annum inc p+p UK.

©ATHOLE DESIGN 2011 ISSN: 2041–918X

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ARABLE Green leaf beet offers frost protection

Sugar beet crops look to have great potential this autumn, with ample soil moisture for root development. But maintaining green leaf will be essential to boost yields and protect roots from frost for later lifting, advises eastern counties agronomist, Richard Palmer.

He warns that the experience of extreme frost damage to roots last year has highlighted the need to retain green leaf for as long as possible; trials have shown good leaf cover can effectively protect crops from two or three heavy frosts. “Our aim is to keep out Rust through the autumn, which will enable the crop to continue to build up yield and root sugar content,” he advises. “Growers need to push yields to ensure they reach quota this season, in order to receive their full entitlement to rebates on seed for next year’s area.”

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Mr Palmer advocates growers use a two-spray fungicide programme, with the second spray using Spyrale at the full rate of 1.0 l/ha on all crops planned for lifting more than 28 days after treatment.

“Most crops are looking remarkably clean of disease, and the risk of Powdery Mildew should decline as the season progresses. Rust and Ramularia are the key threats in the mild, humid conditions.”

Chris Charnock of Syngenta highlights that Rust, Ramularia and Cercospora have all been identified in untreated plots of sugar beet trials in Lincolnshire.

“With the current weather conditions, disease infection will spread rapidly unless controlled.

A second spray with Spyrale or Priori Xtra will minimise the effects of any autumn disease attacks and help to boost yields.”

www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

ARABLE

Increase in cereal harvest

Figures out reveal the highest Scottish cereal harvest in more than 20 years, despite a delayed harvest due to the wet weather. Commenting on the first Estimate of the Cereal and Oilseed Rape Harvest 2011, Mr Lochhead said: “I welcome the news that the first estimates of cereal and oilseed rape are up on 2010 figures, despite the wet summer. It appears that the last gasp of summer has saved the harvest and in particular, it is heartening to see average cereal yields increase by 7.5 per cent to 6.9 tonnes per hectare - the highest level in 20 years.

“I appreciate it is not all good news for farmers, with the high moisture content leading to increased production costs and the delayed harvest leading to operational challenges. However it is not the disaster we feared and compared to the rest of the UK, Scotland has seen greater increases in cereal, wheat and oilseed rape production which are to be welcomed.”

Key trends between 2010 and 2011 show: For total cereals: production has increased by 346,000 tonnes (12.7 per

Breakthrough in the production of floodtolerant crops

Recently thousands of families lost their homes and crops as flood waters swept across Central America. In Thailand huge tracts of farmland were submerged as the country faced its worst flooding in 50 years. Across the globe agricultural production is at risk as catastrophic flooding becomes a world-wide problem.

Prolonged flooding drastically reduces yields by cutting off the supply of oxygen crops need to survive. Now experts at The University of Nottingham, working in collaboration with the University of California, Riverside, have identified the molecular mechanism plants use to sense low oxygen levels. The discovery could lead, eventually, to the production of highyielding, flood-tolerant crops, benefiting farmers, markets and consumers across the globe.

The mechanism controls key proteins in plants causing them to be unstable when oxygen levels are normal. When roots or shoots are flooded and oxygen levels drop these proteins become stable.

Michael Holdsworth, Professor of Crop Science in

cent) to 3.1 million tonnes this is the highest production in the last 20 years, 123,000 tonnes (4.2 per cent) greater than the next highest year in 2008 areas increased by 21,000 hectares (4.9 per cent) to 446,000 hectares average yields increased by 7.5 per cent to 6.9 tonnes per hectare, the highest level in the last 20 years.

For individual crops: Wheat production increased by 66,000 tonnes (7.2 per cent) to 984,000 tonnes Barley production increased by 284,000 tonnes (17.0 per cent) to 1,949,000 tonnes Oats production decreased by 3,000 tonnes (2.3 per cent) to 132,000 tonnes Oilseed Rape production

increased by 41,000 tonnes (34.0 per cent) to 163,000 tonnes By comparison with the UK: For total cereals; areas, yields and production increased, though to a lesser degree; a two per cent increase in both area and yield and a four per cent increase in production across the whole of the UK

Individual crops for the whole of the UK followed similar trends as in Scotland, though changes in production over the last year have been more favourable in Scotland: Wheat production increased by 3.3 per cent, Barley by 7.4 per cent, Oats declined by 9 per cent and production of oilseed rape increased by 24.6 per cent percent in the UK

the School of Biosciences at Nottingham said: “We have identified the mechanism through which reduced oxygen levels are sensed.

The mechanism controls key regulatory proteins called transcription factors that can turn other genes on and off” commented Michael Holdsworth, Professor of Crop Science at The University of Nottingham. “It is the unusual structure of these proteins that destines them for destruction under normal oxygen levels, but when oxygen levels decline, they become stable. Their stability results in changes in gene expression and metabolism that enhance survival in the low oxygen conditions brought on by flooding. When the plants return to normal oxygen levels, the proteins are again degraded, providing a feedback control mechanism”.

Professor Holdsworth’s work, in collaboration with Professor Julia Bailey-Serres, a geneticist and expert in plant responses to flooding at the University of California, Riverside, is just the beginning. www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

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ARABLE

Vegetable focus shows new innovation for growers

The Syngenta Vegetable Agronomy Open Day gave growers and agronomists the chance to see and hear about some of the latest industry developments and innovations on the demonstration site, cosponsored by Yara and hosted by the PGRO. UK vegetable growers have been reassured that

continued investment in R&D and product development will bring improved new varieties and crop protection solutions over the coming years, according to Syngenta UK Country Head, Gary Mills-Thomas. He reports the company has prioritised vegetable production as one of its key areas for investment,

The Bryce Powershift Forest Supreme ( Patent Pending) is for the farmer or contractor looking for a compact high-performance post driver for driving big heavy strainers in, fast and straight, in hard and stony ground conditions.

400kg and 500kg hammers are offered and a heavy duty rockspike is fitted as standard.

Suitable for use on tractors of 80hp, the post driver features sideshift and backshift , allowing one man to drive posts on his own without having to move the tractor.

Hitting height is up to 3.65 metres (12ft) using the wellproven and highly acclaimed patented Bryce Telescopic Mast.

Closed height for negotiating power lines or trees or indoor storage is 3.3 mts.

Being centrally mounted the post driver is extremely safe on steep ground and narrow hill tracks, and as the machine is within the width of the tractor, travelling along narrow country roads is also easier and safer.

The post driver is 600kgs lighter than the award-winning Bryce Profi range, so is also well suited to working on soft ground and travelling over bogs.

The Forest Supreme also comes with hydraulic jack legs as standard for added stability and the post driver can also be used for driving in stobs.

with exciting new opportunities already in development.

Speaking to growers and agronomists at the Syngenta Vegetable Agronomy Open Day last month, he highlighted that the company has now combined its Seeds and Crop Protection businesses in one unified operation. This has created greater emphasis in developing

solutions for growers that incorporates genetic advances in plant breeding, with the agronomic techniques to get the best possible results in yield and quality.

“Syngenta invests around £2m a day in global R&D. Now, from the creation of a new variety or the inception of a new crop protection product we will be looking at ways they can be dovetailed together, to get the optimum results from each,” he said. “That ‘one-Syngenta’ approach will continue right through to the customer, with proven solutions to put into practice in the field.”

Mr Mills-Thomas added that the Syngenta UK vegetable business was also now allied to the company’s operations in the Nordic and Benelux countries. “It means UK growers will immediately benefit from the huge investment and concentration on vegetable crops, especially the Benelux states. We now have a direct link into the dedicated R&D facilities at Enkhuizen, which will be developing products and solutions tailored to UK needs.”

The Bryce Powershift Forest Supreme

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A

ARABLE Professor Sir David Baulcombe to urge farmers to embrace new technologies

The urgent need for farmers to embrace new technologies to meet increasing demands for food, is the key message to be delivered by one of the country’s leading plant scientists, Professor Sir David Baulcombe FRS, at LEAF’s forthcoming President’s Event.

Professor Sir David Baulcombe, Regius Professor of Botany at the University of Cambridge, will deliver the key note speech at the event, taking place on the 2nd November 2011. His talk, titled “Growing Acceptance for New Technologies”, will urge farmers to embrace new agronomy and plant genetics in order to meet the food requirements of a growing population using sustainable practice. Tackling the needs of a population expected to grow to 9 billion within the next 30 years.

Professor Baulcombe explains, “There is huge potential within

the scientific community, to come up with viable scientific solutions for feeding a growing population. Farmers, the food industry and wider society have a responsibility to help realise this potential”.

Other speakers on the day include, LEAF Marque grower, Andrew Burgess from Produce World, speaking on the demands of growing fresh produce sustainably in a global market; Dr Chris Brown, Head of Sustainable Sourcing at Asda setting out how they are working with LEAF to meet their responsibilities to their customers and Paul Dove, Technical Director of Molson Coors Brewing Company who will explain how they are tackling sustainability issues in new and innovative ways and discussing their involvement in the development of LEAF’s Water Management Tool.

John Nix Farm Management Pocketbook Reveals Changes to Farming Economics The 42nd Edition of the John Nix Farm Management Pocketbook has just been published. It has been fully updated taking account of the changes to the economics of UK farming over the last year. It is the most used and best known farm management costings book in the UK. In his Foreword, Professor John Nix makes reference to the extremes in economics that we are experiencing in farming today and the impacts this is having reshaping our industry.

He reminds us that more change will continue to occur, and as a strong industry, farming will respond although good management is necessary to prosper.

Visit www.thepocketbook. co.uk to download the contents, a selection of free pages and buy your copy online or phone 01664 564 508.

CAP – The European Crofters’ Perspective

By Patrick Krause Chief Executive, Scottish Crofting Federation On 12 October the European Commission published its Legal Proposals for the new Common Agricultural Policy which will be implemented on 1st January 2014.

The European Coordination of Via Campesina (ECVC), the representative organisation for crofters in Europe, issued some comments on the proposals.

Markets and production without regulation: The repeated agricultural sectorial crises have shown that without regulation of production and of markets it is not possible to stabilise the sector. It was one of the priorities given to the CAP by the treaty of Lisbon yet there is nothing in the Commission proposals on regulation. To treat price volatility only downstream by insurance schemes amounts to giving public funds to the insurance companies, whilst making producers and taxpayers pay for the damage caused by deregulation.

Active farmers: It is necessary to deliver direct payments only to active farmers, but the definition the Commission proposes is too lax. It is necessary to increase the suggested 5% threshold.

Payment per ha: ECVC rejects the payment per ha and defends payment per active person. The payment per ha, decoupled from production, has perverse effects on the price of agricultural land and

leads to income for the landowners. The abandonment of the historical reference is positive but 2019 is too distant - it is an additional gift to those who have monopolized the payments since 1992.

Capping direct payments: it is essential, but the ceilings proposed are too high and the recovered amount would be very weak . The ceiling must be lowered to release more funds to small-scale farms and the less favoured areas and sectors.

Lump sum for the smallscale farms: It is positive that this support is proposed in the first pillar. In addition ECVC awaits the implementation of specific standards for small scale processing of agricultural products.

Industrial standards are for industry.

A far too less significant “greening”: ECVC was expecting more significant progress in favour of an agriculture using less inputs and energy and thus contributes to decreased global warming and which stops the development of factory farms (pig, poultry, milk, rabbit, etc) and other too intensive modes of production.

Rural development: There needs to be far greater emphasis on Pillar 2 schemes which promote rural development and environmental protection, to avoid the capturing of funds by industrialised farming.

www.crofting.org www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

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The “self sufficiency” journey continues Tom and Barbara did it on TV in the “Good Life”, but can a complete gardening novice like me learn to grow our own food for the family too?

A mission chosen by Athole Murray Fleming, Publisher of Farming Scotland Magazine Winter here we come As I said in the last issue, if we had to rely on me growing veg this year, our cat would have starved to death, never mind the family!

But everyone must start somewhere I suppose, and I now know that a lot of work lies ahead in planning for the new year.

What I will be doing very soon is digging out the three new planting beds and expanding the little corner one where we grow some rhubarb and runner beans.

After repair work on one of our boundary fences, I will start to build climbing frames all around our garden in readiness for lots of beans and peas.

I have also decided to invest in large pots and have plans to re-use two old garden benches as platforms for growing boxes.

Being ‘inventive’ will be my watchword in getting ready for a ‘first-time’ full season.

I also recycled some branch bamboo-type fencing, and made into a little growing tower. Again more runner beans and not too bad a crop. I really like this kind of work – recycling old materials into something useful in the garden, so more towers are planned.

Runner Beans A small number of plants but I liked the amount of beans that I got, despite me not having a clue what I was doing!

Plastic greenhouses no more As far as I am concerned, they didn’t work. The wind has made short work of them and they need to be replaced after only one summer. So poor was the weather I suppose, but I will be looking into the more robust plastic types.

For what I want to do, the glass ones would be a bit too expensive for this project, so plastic is the next experiment here.

Peppers Wee things…. but aint that been a familiar story so far?

Didn’t get many, but they tasted okay in a curry!

Growing frames I have had a little success in my first growing attempts though – so not all bad!

I recycled an old wrought iron gate, and when positioned against one of our sheds, it provided the perfect climbing frame for some runner beans. And we got quite a few meals out of these – so more plants for next year so we can take crops on a daily basis – I like my greens!

Potting Sheds & Garden Sheds

by Gillies and Mackay Ltd. Tel. 01821 642713 Planned raised bed area

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Planning & seeds Just bought some early bean seeds – a couple of varieties.

This will be a theme for next year, and I am looking forward to getting the new seed catalogues for buying in at least two varieties of my selected veg’s. Little red onions too, they will get planted in the next week or so.

See you again in January, probably during a heat wave!

FLAVOUR OF SCOTLAND

Rory Stone with one of his suppliers.

Artisan cheese from Tain

Highland Fine Cheeses started on the back of a struggling dairy farm. Like so many small artisan cheese makers, Sussanah and Reggie Stone were somewhat accidental. Reggie complained that since the establishment of the dairy boards no one made Crowdie any more and Sussanah thought she could. A churn of milk was put into the family bath and kept warm. It soon soured but wouldn’t set and after 4 days everyone was keen to have a bath, so they asked the Tain chemist and he suggested a little rennet would help. Traditionally Crowdie was always made from skimmed milk after the cream was used to make butter.

The skim would be left by the range to ferment and set into a lactic curd. Then put it directly on to heat so that you can scramble the curd just like eggs and when still quite soft hang it in a muslin or pillow case and allow the whey to drain off. Add in some salt and perhaps a little more cream for flavour and you have a very simple preserved milk, Crowdie. Sussanah with her ten gallon churn ended up making 16 pounds, a little more than Reggie had bargained for on his oatcake. So they wrapped

some up in greaseproof paper and gave it to their grocer by way of reducing the outstanding account. Two days later he called and asked for more.

From these humble beginnings Crowdie was potted, rolled in peppercorns, mixed with garlic leaf, indeed any combination that proved tasty was trialled packed and sold.

Then Sussanah looked back to an ancient family recipe for a double cream cheese originally

made on the Isle of Skye in the 14th century for the head of the Clan MacDonald by his daughter, Mariota d’Isle. Caboc was re introduced in the 1960’s with the addition of pinhead oatmeal as a coating. At the time it wasn’t always easy to get oatcakes so this seemed the best solution.

Today HFC produces mouldripened cheeses, Strathdon Blue and Morangie Brie along with the more traditional Scottish fair of Blarliath Farmhouse Cheddar

and is managed by the Stone’s son, Ruaraidh. But the old favourites are still made and sold to an ever loyal Scottish market, all under the watchful eye of Sussanah.

Highland Fine Cheeses Limited, Blairliath Farm, Shore Road, Tain, IV19 1EB Email: info@hf-cheeses.com Telephone: 01862 892 034

Strathdon Blue. www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

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ATV’s Eight little workhorses, each with a style of their own There seems to be an ATV out there for every need

New ATV Trade-in offer from Suzuki Suzuki GB PLC has announced a new trade-in offer, giving customers £250 off a new KingQuad when they trade in their used ATV*. The offer is available at all authorised Suzuki ATV dealers and applies to any new Suzuki KingQuad model, from the economic 400 right through to the robust 750 Power Steering.

The trade-in campaign runs till 31st December 2011 and any used ATV can be

traded-in regardless of the age, make or condition.

Gareth Lumsdaine, ATV Sales and Marketing Manager, Suzuki GB commented, “As with our recent 6 Months Free Fuel offer, our focus remains on campaigns that are truly relevant to our customers. This time of year brings challenging conditions and tougher terrains and we know that many people are faced with the prospect of replacing old ATVs. The tradein campaign offers an extra incentive to upgrade ready for the busy winter ahead.”

Suzuki KingQuad

For all your Polaris ATV requirements call 01786 842921 and ask for Bob Bain www.agricar.co.uk 10

www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

ATV’s The offer is available on all KingQuad models including the KingQuad 400. This popular model comes equipped with selectable 2 or 4-wheel drive, perfect for tackling everything from tricky hillsides to intricate landscapes. The 400 also features an efficient fuelinjected 376cc engine with the choice of a 5-speed plus reverse manual or a fully automatic transmission, both with high and low ranges to get you up, over, down or around any obstacle.

Customers looking to upgrade to a reliable, efficient and practical ATV can contact their local Suzuki dealer today for more information about trading up to a new KingQuad.

New Honda Foreman signs in Honda (UK) has further strengthened its market-

leading product offering with the introduction of the fifth generation of its heavy-duty ‘Foreman’ ATV. Two new models will be added to the Foreman family - TRX500FM (manual shift) and TRX500FE (electric shift) – which have undergone a total redesign from the ground up, using an entirely different design procedure that places extensive customer feedback at the heart of the changes.

Taking the durability and performance for which Honda ATVs are famed, the new Foreman models now come with a raft of significant new features designed to improve rider experience, increase usability and meet the needs of the demanding utility market sector.

The redesigned engine – a sophisticated water-cooled, 475cc single-cylinder, OHV

Honda Foreman

four-stroke engine with a higher compression ratio provides excellent ‘low down’ power perfect for pulling away with heavier loads. new fuel injection system – featuring a 36mm throttle body that provides instant throttle response, consistent performance through the

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power range and trouble-free cold weather starting. new rear suspension – the combination of a new steel swingarm design and a single, high-quality shock absorber with 174mm travel enables well-controlled power delivery, as well as increased comfort, precision and work capability.

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ATV’s

Kioti Mechron

www.supatracks.com

adjustable pre-loading – both front and rear shocks are adjustable and pre-loadable, allowing the user to set personal preferences according to terrain and the task in hand.

Kioti goes ON-road!

Seen for the first time, RECOKioti have just unveiled their brand-new homologated version of the Kioti Mechron Utility Vehicle.

RAMSAY & JACKSON LTD NEW SUZUKI QUADS Suzuki LT-A400F Auto, King Quad Limited Slip Front Differential, 2&4 WD Suzuki LT-A400F Manual, King Quad Limited Slip Front Differential, 2&4 WD NEW QUAD ACCESSORIES Quad X60L - Pro Spray Elite £297 inc VAT Quad X11 FT - Boom Sprayer £232.80 inc. VAT Logic LDS240 - Fertiliser Spreader £2040 inc. VAT

www.ramjack.co.uk Knowehead Works Mauchline, Ayrshire, KA5 6EY Tel: 01290 550329 Fax: 01290 552508 Email: sales@ramjack.co.uk 12

NEW INDISPENSION TRAILERS Available Ex-Stock NEW IFOR WILLIAMS TRAILERS TT85e Electric Tipping Trailer All P6e, P7e and P8e Models c/w Options of Ramp Door, Weldmesh Sides, Stock Door SECONDHAND TRAILERS LM126 Flat Bed Trailer Headboard and Dropsides £1800 inc. VAT TT85 Electric Tipping Trailer £2160 inc. VAT TT105 Electric Tipping Trailer £2700 inc. VAT

BENETEAU ANTARES 620 Fishing Boat Comes with Indespension RC10 Roller Coaster Trailer WAS £17,000 inc. VAT NOW £15,250 inc. VAT

OTHER NEW EQUIPMENT IN STOCK Fleming Hydraulic Double Heavy Duty Bale Tipper

KRONE EQUIPMENT Ex Demo Krone Comprima F125XC Baler 17 Knives, Cam Less Pickup, in new condition on limited Special Offer

AGRICULTURAL SPARE PARTS Stockists of Ifor Williams, Knott, AI-Ko, Krone, Vapormatic, & Quality Tractor Parts (MF, Ford, John Deere, New Holland & Valtra)

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ATV’s The homologated version of the Mechron is different to any other currently on the market as it includes a combination of both bucket and bench seats.

This combination means that you can safely transport a driver plus two pasengers when travelling by road.

Introduced in 2009, the Kioti Mechron has been well received by RECO’s dealers and RECO are currently still receiving continued sales enquiries and stock orders for the machine - indicating that it will continue growing from strength to strength.

The new homologated version will increase the usability of the machine further and RECO hope that this will prompt even more sales.

With limited stock available later this year, the Mechron 2210 will be sold with an orange bonnet as standard. The model on display is the green

version which will be available from RECO as an optional extra. The Mechron 2210 will have a RRP from £10,995.

New Yamaha Grizzly 300 With the Grizzly 300, which combines ease of use and impressive functionality with Yamaha quality standards and value for money, Yamaha believe it will strengthen its presence in the important entrylevel utility model sector.

For 2012 Yamaha will introduce the Grizzly 300 which is designed for leisure and utility owners of all ages and riding experience who are looking for an easy-touse quality 2WD ATV at an affordable price.

During the development of this model, our designers and engineers were working with one goal in mind – and that was to create an ATV which

Yamaha Grizzly 300

could be as much fun for a complete beginner as it would be for an experienced ATV user. And at the same time this machine would be built to satisfy the different demands and requirements of leisure and utility users.

Starting with a clean sheet, our design team have built a

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2WD ATV which we believe achieved these goals. Easy-touse yet sophisticated, compact yet powerful, high quality yet affordable, focused yet versatile, the new Grizzly 300 offers more for less.

The Grizzly 300 replaces both the Grizzly 350 2WD and Big Bear 250 for 2012, and with

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ATV’s

Cub Cadet

its abundant overall engine and chassis specification and easyto-use character, this quality ATV is ready to work hard and play hard.

Cub Cadet utility vehicles - powerful, strong and tough!

Cub Cadet Big Country UTV’s

Honda ATV’s always in stock for immediate delivery Used Atv’s available ex stock

Main Logic stockist and suppliers In stock Trailers, Sweeper Collector, Salt Spreaders, Multi Feeder and Sprayers

REEKIE GROUP Stirling 01786 477530 Cupar 01334 652445

Perth 01738 622471 Coldstream 01890 882098

www.reekie.co.uk

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are the most versatile 4x4 diesel utility vehicles on the market and one of the most powerful with a Yanmar engine.

The Yanmar 3TNV70, liquid cooled 854cc, 3-cylinder Yanmar diesel engine delivers the optimum combination of horsepower

ATV’s and torque.

Increased horsepower at 21hp and a 12% bigger cubic capacity compared to the previous engine provides the power to take on the biggest challenges and the capability to complete the most difficult tasks.

If the outdoors is where you live or earn a living, the Cub Cadet is for you. It combines the reliability and longevity of a diesel engine with the advanced suspension of a high performance 4x4. With switchable two to four wheel drive and the option of locking the rear differential this makes the vehicle a true four wheel/ all wheel drive. The Cub Cadet is available fully specified and prepared as road legal – Agricultural Class as standard.

The Cub Cadet Big Country is a great workhorse on the farm or estate and ideal for reaching inaccessible areas for repair and maintenance

work. The camouflage version is the perfect vehicle for shoots.

It can tow the pheasant feeder; carry guns, clays and other equipment, even towing the game cart at the end of the day.

Happy birthday to Arctic Cat Arctic Cat, the American ATV and Snowmobile Manufacturer are this year celebrating their 50th birthday.

Within the Arctic Cat ATV range is the “Jewel in the Crown” for UK farmers the 700 cc Diesel quad. The bike comes completely with a full road lighting kit, fully independent suspension. Can, if needed, carry a passenger, fully automatic gearbox, front winch and rear non homologated tow ball.

The range of Quads starts with the 350 two wheel drive

Arctic Cat 700 Diesel

which retails at £ 3.750 plus VAT @ 20 %, followed by the 425 and then the 425 SE model which features alloy wheels; next comes the 550 long and short wheelbase which can be purchased with power steering.

A 700 cc petrol quad is also available with power steering as an optional extra

and followed by the big daddy of the range the 1000 cc petrol with power steering, of course.

However if you fancy a sports quad, Arctic Cat have two models in their range starting with the 300 DVX which retails at £ 3.390 plus VAT @ 20% and the 450 XC crossover which is the new kid

Grizzly 300 Easy to use at work at play There’s never been a better time to talk to your local Yamaha Utility ATV Dealer about this class leading range.

Visit our website and dealer locator today to find out why Europe’s Number One selling ATV range is so special and so popular.

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ATV’s on the block and can be used on or off road with having electric shift o or 4 wheel drive.

Arctic Cat ATV’s come fully road legal, have automatic C.V.T. gearbox and independent suspension front and rear and come complete with electric front winch and rear tow ball at no extra cost to the customer.

The automotive style half shaft drive design is fully enclosed for maximum protection and the 8”/20cm disc brakes and a dual circuit master cylinder gives sure footed performance with added confidence.

Kawasaki V-twin ATV’s set to gain ground With a large capacity ATV sector now firmly established as part of the fabric of farming, several companies are now offering middle to

16

large capacity bikes, chief among them being Kawasaki.

Choosing the V-twin configuration for all machines of 650cc and above in their UK commercial ATV range, Kawasaki were keen to answer a variety of needs in terms of both usability and convenience.

Characteristically torquey by nature, the water-cooled V-Twin engines in the Japanese company’s KVF650 and KVF750 twins are tuned for stump pulling low to middle rev power, matched with the ability to easily pull trailers and impressive loads.

Allied to the inherent smoothness of a V-twin over, say, a parallel twin design, the increased dynamic balance of both machines results in a genuine all-day hard working ability, as Product Manager for Kawasaki ATV and MULE product in the UK, Simon Riches, explains.

Kawasaki KV750

“It’s a well-worn path, but even now there are still people who have yet to realise that a large capacity ATV has much of the manoeuvrability of a smaller bike allied to the towing ability and working practicality of something as large as a pick-up truck.

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As a working platform, these V-twins display some very advanced features as standard such as electronic fuel injection and independent rear suspension on the KVF750 and a manual override of the reversing speed limiter plus a variable front LSD on the KVF650.

ATV’s If you go down to the woods...with a Polaris Polaris Britain has announced the introduction of a new addition to the Sportsman ATV family, the 500 Forest for 2012. This new model features mirrors and indicators as standard, an automatic Polaris Variable Transmission gearbox with low ratio range, all wheel shaft drive and a permanent 2500lb winch. The Forest also has a rear hitch with machinery attachment point. The 498cc High Output 4-stroke engine unleashes power in abundance for towing and winching, with on demand all-wheel and two-wheel drive striking a balance for all working conditions. MacPherson strut

with 8.2” (20.8cm) travel combines with dual A-Arm Independent Rear Suspension travel of 9.5” (24.1cm) to give this Sportsman the stance, handling and off-road capability that takes the most challenging forest track in its stride. The ground clearance is 11.25” (28.5cm) and a turning radius of 65” (165cm) mean there’s plenty of room to manoeuvre when the going gets rough. A big 4.25 (17L) fuel load keeps you on track for plenty of miles and if you’re greedy for load and towing there’s masses on tap, in fact as much as 1786 lbs (810kg) unbraked towing capacity. As you would expect with Polaris there’s Lock and Ride, high beam headlights to light the

Polaris Sportsman

path at night and a range of instrumentation to keep you fully informed on speed, fuel,

gear selection and more while the Sage Green colour option blends in with the trees.

DEALERS KEY (Participating Dealers in this feature) ARCTIC CAT DKR Agricultural Services http://jd-dealer.co.uk/ dkragri/ Biggar : 01899 220897 Linklater Engineering www.linklaterengineering.co.uk Stenness : 01856 851000 Rutherford Agricultural www.rutherford.co.uk Earlston : 01896 848404 Swinton : 01890 840458 HONDA Gammies Groundcare www.gammies.co.uk Forfar : 01307 46855

J. Paterson & Sons www.paterson-motorcycles.co.uk Dalbeattie : 01556 610249 Ramsay & Jackson www.ramjack.co.uk Mauchline : 01290 550329 Reekie Group www.reekie.co.uk Cupar : 01334 652 445 Perth : 01738 622471 Stirling : 01786 477530 Rutherford Agricultural www.rutherford.co.uk East Linton : 01620 860348

J & S Montgomery www.jsmontgomery.co.uk Lochwinnoch : 01505 842356 Stranraer : 01776 707030

KAWASAKI AM Phillip www.amphillip.co.uk Conon Bridge : 01349 866021 Huntly : 01466 799222 Fraserburgh : 01346 541351

J & W Tait www.jandwtaitltd.co.uk Kirkwall : 01856 873003

MLM Engineering www.mlmengineering.co.uk Orphir : 01856 811282

Ross of Lanark www.rossoflanark.co.uk Lanark : 01555 665025 Rutherford Agricultural www.rutherford.co.uk Earlston : 01896 848404 Swinton : 01890 840458 KIOTI Ancroft Tractors www.ancroft-tractors.co.uk Berwick upon Tweed : 01289 331904 Kelso : 01573 225213 Macmerry : 01875 617323 POLARIS CC Supplies www.cc-supplies.co.uk Turriff : 01888 588145 Highland Offroad www.highlandoffroad.co.uk Dunkeld : 01350 728700

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John Drysdale Engineers Kinnesswood : 01592 840686 Linklater Engineering www.linklaterengineering.co.uk Stenness : 01856 851000 SUZUKI Garriock Bros www.garriock.co.uk Lerwick : 01595 694765 Jim Allan Motorcycles www.jim-allan.com Falkirk : 01324 620111 Bathgate : 01506 653922 John Drysdale Engineers Kinnesswood : 01592 840686 W & A Geddes Wick : 01955 602207 Brora : 01408 621220 YAMAHA A. McCracken ATV Services Castle Douglas : 01556 504337

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POTATOES

TONG PEAL LAUNCHES NEW SIDE EJECT BOX TIPPER

To ensure efficient, robust and reliable box tipping and to guarantee the handling process moves with optimum efficiency, Tong Peal, the UK’s leading designer and manufacturer of handling and sorting equipment for the vegetable handling industry, has introduced a new side eject box tipper.

The side eject box tipper has been specifically designed to keep a continuous flow of crop onto grading and washing lines, with minimal forklift movement and greater time efficiency. Capable of handling boxes up to 2 tonnes, once the tipper is loaded with a full box, an automatic control flow sensor ensures that as the box is tipped, crop is gently and evenly fed over a forward conveyor and onto the line. Once the box is emptied, the tipper returns the box to the loading position and the side eject mechanism pushes the box to the side, allowing the next box to be loaded. Like all Tong Peal tippers, the side eject

tipper is fully automatic with light guards to meet the full safety requirements of EC legislation.

To ensure complete and efficient emptying of boxes, the new tipper features the latest ram tipping mechanism design with enhanced linkage strength, allowing boxes to be tipped through a wider arc of up to 160°. The advanced design of the tipping mechanism also puts less strain on bearings and linkages, resulting in a stronger,

more robust mechanism with significantly lower servicing and maintenance requirements. The 160° box tipping mechanism is also available on standard Tong Peal box or big bag tippers and the success of these tippers with UK and international customers has led to it being manufactured as part of the 2011 model of the side eject tipper.

BRANSTON HAILED BEST SUPPLIER FOR CARBON REDUCTION TECHNOLOGY

BRANSTON Ltd has scooped a top retail award naming them as the 2011 Tesco supplier with the best technology innovation to reduce carbon.

Tesco congratulated the UK’s leading potato supplier for effectively innovating throughout its production processes and investing in technology to reduce carbon emissions.

Vidyanath Gururajan, Branston’s projects director said, “We’re delighted to have won the Carbon Reduction Technology award as part of Tesco’s ‘Greening the Supply Chain’ initiative. The awards were open to the entire supply chain, so we feel very proud that Tesco has acknowledged our achievements.

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“This award is particularly important to us, because its recognition from a retailer which sets extremely high environmental standards for both itself and its suppliers.

“Over the past few years we’ve been looking at a wide range of green initiatives and it’s only after careful analysis that we’ve invested in the best of this technology - innovations that really work for us. All our projects have sustainability built into the brief – from a long-term environmental and a financial perspective.”

Food waste from the factory and outgrade potatoes from the fresh potato factory are used in a new Anaerobic Digestion (AD) plant which produces a steady

400kW of electricity. Branston invested £2 million in the AD plant and it has enabled them to reduce electricity use by 40 per cent at the Lincoln site.

The company also invested in innovative water recycling technology, which is fully

integrated with the AD plant at the Lincoln site. This enables them to recycle water used for washing potatoes and the water extracted in the anaerobic digestion process. It has reduced mains water consumption by 60 per cent at the site.

NFUS

POTATOES

Time to sort things out…now!

By Nigel Miller, President NFU Scotland

Reekie Potato Equipment are bringing back the Reekie Planter

Only 5 Reekie Planters have been produced since Steve Thorley Potato Equipment acquired the rights to the brand in 2005 and these high specification units were produced by a third party agent.

Reekie have decided to start production with the 2 Row Jumbo Planter with a Covering Hood. This mechanically driven planter is technically very simple but the design has proven itself over many years.

Steve Thorley thinks this is the right decision. “Many people express a desire to see the more basic mechanical drive planter.

Every spring customers come to us for this sort of planter, we often struggle to meet demand.

The design is simple but effective, without hydraulics or electronics there is very little to go wrong.”

The Reekie Jumbo Planter features a 1400kg easy fill hopper, spring loaded deep openers and a covering hood for one pass planting. For those planting on a conventional system, ploughs are still available. The consistency comes from the toothed planting belts, driven by profiled rollers, to ensure there is no belt slip and to provide consistency. Seed from 30mm to 55mm can be planted with the aid of inserts. Row widths of 30” through to 36” and wheel widths off 60” through to 80” can be accommodated.

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Clouds of uncertainty hang dark over the eurozone as Europe’s politicians reluctantly struggle to manage a Greek default process and avoid triggering a domino effect that has the potential to engulf the continent in recession.

After the optimism of a landslide election victory here in Scotland, that same chill of austerity has moved north from Westminster limiting budgets and the ambitions of Scotland’s new Government.

It is in this world of economic uncertainty that European agriculture faces reform of the Common Agriculture Policy – a policy that has, for almost 50 years, underpinned agricultural production across the continent and continues to deliver safe, affordable food to 500 million mouths across Europe.

The starting gun has just been fired on CAP Reform and already the implications for Scotland are clear.

Commissioner Ciolois, to secure the existing CAP budget, has committed to introducing a 30 percent green component into the CAP delivery system to gain wider support for a continued European spend on agriculture. This initiative has the potential to create a new layer of complexity and cost at farm level. The notion of claimants being required to put as much as seven percent of their

area into environmental focus areas – set aside by another name – runs contrary to driving forward efficient production and meeting food security concerns head on.

This is the start of the CAP Reform process and, given that any decision will now also involve the European parliament, a new CAP may be many months away from being resolved.

We in Scotland have the challenge of breaking through the politics of Europe to secure a workable deal for Scotland’s farms and crofts.

Creating a fast -track mechanism to bring those disadvantaged by our historic system into CAP support, creating new area based entitlements which reflect the diversity of land types and businesses in Scotland, supporting fragile systems and communities; winning a transition period for established businesses; designing an activity gateway to ensure our limited budget is targeted only at those that are actively farming.

Securing this basic structure of future support will generate a huge workload for NFUS staff and officeholders. However, it is fundamental to maintaining a competitive and active sector and we must get it right. Scottish representation will be key, at home, in Westminster and in Brussels.

Get ready for the Winter Fair Scot Proteins Limited is to continue as the main sponsor for this years Royal Highland Winter Fair at Ingliston on Wednesday 23rd November.

The company, which is part of the Leo Group, is based at Kintore in Aberdeenshire and this will be the third year of sponsoring Scotland’s leading primestock show. The Leo Group is one of the leading animal by-product processors in the UK, headed up by Danny Sawrij, who is also well known for his Swalesmoor Charolais herd.

Also on board for the first time at this year’s Winter Fair which incorporates the 100th Scottish National Fat Stock Club Show, is NWF Agriculture.

This Cheshire-based animal feed company is generously sponsoring the overall cattle championships.

NWF Agriculture covers the main farming areas from central Scotland to Cornwall and its progressive attitude has seen the feed output increase from 50,000 to 500,000 tonnes per annum in the last ten years.

Another company supporting the show in 2011 is Rumenco, well-known for its feedblocks and Lifeline buckets. Rumenco will have a trade stand at the Winter Fair as well as supporting cattle and sheep classes.

The newly elected Chairman of the Royal Highland Winter Fair Board, Gavin Scott said, “We are delighted that Scot Proteins have committed to another year of support and, thanks to the success of recent shows, we have been able to attract two new prestigious sponsors.”

Crofter Machinery Log Splitters – From domestic to commercial machines Steel Feed Bins – Small to Extra Large Step and Groom Tack Boxes Tool Boxes Second Hand Farming, Woodworking and Metal Working tools Crofter Machinery is a family run business conveniently situated on the borders of Derbyshire, Yorkshire and Nottinghamshire.

At Crofter Machinery, we believe in quality, not quantity.

Stephen Mallender, has 40 years experience of blacksmithing, engineering, designing and producing bespoke forestry, agricultural and equestrian machinery.

Please come and visit us at the Royal Highland Winter Fair for drinks and fruit!

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Cattle entries up for 2011 winter fair Beef cattle entries are up on the year for the 2011 Royal Highland Winter Fair at Ingliston on 23rd November.

At the time of going to press there were 211 cattle entered compared to 190 in 2010, however there were still a few late entries to come in.

The higher entries are partly due to the re-introduction of the Aberdeen Angus calf show which has attracted 28 entries but also due to the recent buoyancy within the beef sector.

Winter Fair

TIMETABLE OF EVENTS Wednesday 23th November 2011 8 a.m

Gates open to the public

8.30 a.m.

RING ONE Judging of Classes 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14 & 15

8.30 a.m.

RING TWO Judging of Classes 1,2,3,4 & 10

8.30 a.m.

SHEEP RING Judging of Sheep Classes 26 to 33 followed by 34 to 42

9.00 a.m.

Trade Stands Open Display of Royal Smithfield Club Beef Ribs Competition Winners

9.00 a.m.

Judging of Roots, Potatoes, Grain,

Hay and Grass Silage

On the other hand, sheep entries are down on the year at 104 compared to 158 last year, although again there were quite a few in the pipeline.

Speaking to some of the sheep feeders who normally exhibit at the show, many had not even bought their lambs for wintering yet because they were still trying to catch up on the late harvest.

There must have been some good weather somewhere however as there are 26 entries for the hay and silage section at the show this year, which is en up on the year. In total the root and grain section at 78 entries is up eight on the year.

Aberdeen Angus calf classes to return to winter fair The popular Aberdeen Angus calf classes are to return to the Royal Highland Winter Fair on Wednesday 23rd November

2011 after a year’s absence.

Chairman of the RHWF Board, Gavin Scott said that he was delighted that, due to requests from several exhibitors, the classes would be re-instated with the championship sponsored by Galloway and Macleod Ltd. There will be six classes in total; three for bull calves and three for heifer calves born after January 1st 2011, with prize money of £350 per class on offer from sponsors such as Scotbeef Ltd, AMC, United Auctions and Rumenco.

Judging of the calves will take place in Ring 2 at approximately 11.30 am following the Commercial calves and butchers classes.

In keeping with the policy for this year’s 100th show where all the judges are ladies, the judge will be well-known stockwoman, Kay Adam from Newhouse of Glamis, Forfar.

Not before 10.00 a.m. RING TWO

Commercial Calves followed by

Butchers Cattle Not before 11.30am

RING TWO Aberdeen Angus Calf Show

2.00 p.m.

RING ONE Judging of Cattle Championships

2.00 p.m.

SHEEP RING Judging of Sheep Championships

4.15 p.m.

SHEEP RING Auction Sale of Sheep

5.15p.m.

RING ONE Auction Sale of Beef Ribs

5.30 p.m.

RING ONE Auction Sale of Cattle

Close of Event

After Auction Sale of Cattle

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SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY Another of our new sections where we will explore the very latest advances in farming related learning and technology. All news for this section should be emailed in to our usual address.

New forensic technology cracks down on food fraud Scotch Beef is a world-leading brand and the industry invests considerable time and money ensuring the end product is of the highest quality.

Unfortunately, this also makes it an attractive target for unscrupulous traders looking to pass off sub-standard imports as the genuine article. In a bid to combat ‘food fraud’, the commercial use of new forensic technology is being rolled out in Scotland where beef samples can now be tested to authenticate the country of origin.

Andy McGowan, Head of Industry Development, Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) commented: “The forensic tests were developed to identify the “unique fingerprint” of where meat is produced and can confirm to Scotch Beef consumers that the meat of their choice is genuine. The technology also protects and supports the Scotch Beef producers behind the brand.”

The test has emerged from several research projects which have contributed to an effective system of testing that produces a high degree of accuracy when used on meat with no other distinguishing features.

Viewers watching the first programme in the new BBC2 series of ‘Landward (shown on 30 September, 7pm), will see Andy McGowan taking beef samples and discussing the implications of isotope testing with presenter, Dougie Vipond.

Mr McGowan continued: “The isotope technology is already used for verifying the 22

origin of mineral waters and is essentially a laboratory analysis of trace element information extracted from samples enabling the authenticity of the meat to be tested.”

Each sample is tested for levels of hydrogen, carbon, nitrogen, sulphur, oxygen, and strontium isotopes. When the results are layered on top of each other, the outcome is a unique “fingerprint” of the place where the animal spent the last few months of its life.

In the west of the UK, hydrogen isotope levels are high and decline steadily towards the east and into continental Europe.

Evaporation, condensation and rainfall also have an impact on hydrogen levels and provide points of difference between wetter Scotland and the dryer parts of England. The oxygen isotope is similarly affected.

Mr McGowan explained that carbon and nitrogen levels indicate the diet the animal has been eating rather than directly identifying the location. He continued: “The carbon found in plants growing on Scottish pastures differs to those found in warmer areas, such as Brazil, where animals consume predominantly C+ plants such as maize, and this can prove useful for highlighting the differences between products imported from South America or the USA. However, given the international trade in feed ingredients, carbon and nitrogen results alone would not be enough to identify where the meat was from.”

Major new grant will help future vaccine development and secure safe food supplies Researchers in Scotland have secured nearly £1 million to learn more about the immune systems of livestock and develop sheep and cattle vaccines.

With the global population continuing to grow, food security is becoming a real challenge. There is a pressing need to apply new technologies and knowledge to help ensure sustainable, safe and healthy food supplies, while reducing the impact on the environment.

Effective vaccines are the most efficient way of preventing the transmission and spread of infectious diseases in cattle and sheep. However there are still many diseases for which no effective vaccines exist and the lack of knowledge of the immune systems of these animals is considered to be a

major block to strategic vaccine development.

However, thanks to a major grant from the BBSRC and the Scottish Government, scientists from Moredun Research Institute near Edinburgh, working in partnership with colleagues from the nearby Roslin Institute will undertake detailed investigations of the immune responses of sheep and cattle, vitally underpinning the development of vaccines in the future. The work will be done in conjunction and with the support of an industrial partner, AbD Serotec. This will ensure that the techniques and reagents developed in the project will be widely available to the scientific community in order to support future vaccine research.

Feeding beans to fish An innovative new project at The James Hutton Institute could bring major benefits to Scotland’s fish and agriculture industries while improving the sustainability of UK farming at the same time.

The James Hutton Institute is one of 10 partners in the £2.6 million project co-funded by the Technology Strategy Board, which will be led by salmon feed company EWOS. The project, worth £212,000 to The James Hutton Institute, aims to improve faba beans as a potential food source for salmon, pigs and poultry.

It is one of the successful projects awarded by the Technology Strategy Board as part of their Sustainable Protein Production competition.

It was launched in response to worldwide pressures on

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soya production and an over reliance on imported soya in the UK. The consortium proposes to develop processes that separate faba bean flour into two fractions – one that is high in protein and one that is low in protein and high in starch.

The high protein product will then be tested in fish diets and the low protein product in pig and poultry diets, in order to improve the bean product for those markets and reduce levels of imported soya and fishmeal.

As well as providing new food sources, growing more faba beans will bring enormous benefits to the cropping system as it helps by fixing nitrogen in the soil, which improves soil fertility for subsequent cereal crops and reduces the need for artificial fertilisers.

Boost Conception in High Performance Dairy Cows High yielding cows are more often difficult to spot because of a lack of visible bulling activity (silent heats) which can also be very short. Work by Biocell Agri over a two-year period has confirmed the positive influence of Biocell βC on improving conception rates. The synergistic impact of feeding β-carotene in combination with pure live yeast to enhance rumen function helps to maintain condition.

Leicestershire dairy farmers, P & C Ward & Son of Lutterworth, have conducted a two-year commercial assessment of the health and economic benefits of Biocell BC in their 8000 litres pedigree Ashtop herd.

Performance measures show a reduction of thirteen days open

– worth £4.25 per day, or £55.25 per cow, and a 5.3% reduction in services – worth £1.84 at an average cost of £18.39 per service. Neil Ward makes these critical observations: “There is extended visible bulling activity, cows have maintained condition and have never looked so well.

In addition, we have reduced retained placentas, which are blue, indicating that they are healthier, containing more blood. This has resulted in calves with increased early vigour, and healthier cows have put more milk in the tank”.

Cost benefits of Biocell BC: Average 13 days less open £55.25 Reduced services £1.84

Cost of Biocell BC £24.00 EXTRA MARGIN PER COW £33.09 Health benefits: Dietary β-carotene is recognised as the major precursor of vitamin A. Dairy cows are often deficient in Vitamin A before and after calving. This occurs because cows supply a high level of vitamin A to their calf in colostrum, and because vitamin A is closely related to immunity and disease prevention, the reduction in the cow’s blood levels of vitamin A greatly increases her risk of disease after calving.

Ovarian cysts: β-carotene plays an important role in corpus lutea

Ashtop Penny 16 – 4th calf vg 85 – 2686 litres in 98 days

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function, reducing the risk of ovarian cysts.

Mastitis: The vast majority of mastitis cases occur soon after calving. The average time after calving to mastitis diagnosis is two days, and cows that have a low blood vitamin A have a 60% greater risk of mastitis.

This means that the cows with high blood levels of vitamin A have a much lower chance of developing mastitis than cows with low blood vitamin A levels. Cows that develop mastitis within 30 days of calving have, on average, a much lower level of vitamin A in their blood.

High starch diets often lead to a build up of damaging lactic acid in the rumen, leading to acidosis. Biocell βC helps to remove the lactic acid more rapidly, creating a stable rumen pH and enabling the essential rumen microflora to complete the effective digestion of fibre and increasing the supply of energy and protein. With high fibre diets, Biocell βC can stimulate higher forage intake. This improved rumen activity aids fibre digestion and improves feed conversion.

For more information contact Biocell Agri limited on 01885 410336 biocellagri@btinternet.com or visit the website: biocellagri.com 23

Performance recorded rams to the fore at major Texel sales This year’s National Texel sales have once again proved the strength in depth crucially demonstrating the continuing commercial appeal of the breed.

And, it is the ability of the Texel to combine strong type with exceptional performance which has drawn ever increasing numbers of commercial producers to the breed.

Such is the exceptional marrying of breed type with performance that at this year’s Ballymena, Lanark, Welshpool and Worcester National Society sales commercial buyers and breeders rubbed shoulders creating a strong demand for performance recorded lambs.

These sheep also commanded high places in the breed championships and also went on to record some of the highest prices too. Meanwhile, at Kelso, one of Europe’s largest commercial ram sales it was a Texel in the top 1% of the breed which sold for the day’s highest price of any breed.

Leading the way was the champion at the Scottish National Sale, Lanark, Cowal Saltire (CKC1100271) from the Campbell family. The lamb had the highest index in the Lanark

sale catalogue at 428 - putting him well within the top 1% of the breed. He won the recorded class at the Great Yorkshire Show before going on to win the performance recorded class and overall breed championship at Lanark, which had over 600 rams catalogued. This one later sold for 14,000gns.

At the Welsh National Sale, Welshpool, Procters Santander (PFD1101004) from Procters Farm, won the performance recorded ram lamb class and again went on to become the overall sale champion. With an Index of 311, his breeding potential ranks him within the top 5% of the breed, he sold for 2100gns.

At the English National Sale, Worcester, the overall championship went to another recorded ram lamb, the winner of the open class - Cambwell Stewart (LTC1100528) from Robert Laird. This full ET brother to this lamb sold for 28,000gns the previous week had an index of 313 - putting him in the top 5% of the breed, he went at 3400gns.

Across the Irish Sea at Ballymena, the new venue for the Northern Irish National, the winner of the recorded class

Scottish National sale overall champion Cowal Saltire CKC 1100271 14,000gns, with an Index of 428 (Top 1%)

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scooped the reserve overall breed championship, with this being Brian Hanthorn’s ram lamb Mullan Supremacy, (HBN1100274). This son of Mossknowe Pudsey sold for 4400gns.

On top of that, at the recent Kelso Ram Sales the top price of the sale was a 15,000gns bid for the winner of the Performance Recorded Texel show from Maurice Hardy-Bishop. This was Grey Peel Rambo HMF1000004, a Drinkstone Oh So Smart son which went on to sell for a breed centre record of £15,000, to a trio of buyers – Bruce Goldie, Townfoot, Mouswald; Jonathan Watson, of Redhead and Watson, Bowsden Moor, Berwick-uponTweed; and Ted Fox, Elsdonburn, Kirknewton, Wooler.

“The dominance of high index Signet recorded sheep at these major Texel sales is unprecedented,” said Samuel Boon, EBLEX breeding specialist.

“It shows that when judging criteria focus on growth and carcase traits the sensible use of performance records can assist in the identification of breeding lines that excel in the show ring.

“There has been a 27% increase in the number of Texel flocks performance recording with

Signet this year and a lot of flocks sent their highest index breeding stock out to these early sales.

“The strong demand for recorded rams at these sales was a clear sign that breeders recognise the advantages of buying stock rams with known levels of genetic potential and invested believing that performance recording was going to become even more important in the years to come.”

British Texel Sheep Society chief executive John Yates added that the continuing increase in performance recording by Texel breeders boded well for the future of the breed, where both style, functional type and performance are now clearly being achieved.

This is a credit to the Society and the breeders who have invested in this technology.

“Additionally the 1st Season sire of the year, Glenside Razzle Dazzle, (FPG1000055), bred by John Forsyth (Glenside), the award based on the three top sale prices for sons sold at the 4 National sales in 2011. Razzle Dazzle has an index of 310 placing him in the Top 5% of the breed. He is jointly owned by four Aberdeenshire flocks, Milnbank, Deveronvale, Insch and Strathbogie, he made a tremendous impact this year

Welsh National sale overall champion Procters Santander PFD 1101004 2100gns, with an Index of 311 (Top 5%)

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on all four flocks. His sire also performing well and last year’s winner of the award Strathbogie Python (IJS09289) a Millar’s Outstanding son , with a current index of 326 placing him in the high ranking Top 1% of the breeds evaluation.

“Our commercial customers are becoming ever more particular about the rams they

buy and our breeders are responding by providing them with sheep with exceptional carcass qualities backed by performance figures which continue to deliver and improve year on year. Reliability of past purchases adds to the confidence with which commercial producers can use performance recorded figures for Texels.”

English National sale overall champion Cambwell Stewart - LTC1100528 3400gns with an Index of 313 (Top 5%)

“The Texel breed has the largest population of recorded females of any breed in the UK, which along with the whole breed evaluations and inclusive recorded breeder’s focus group within the Society structure make for valuable resources for the breed’s future development.

“The Society is already actively involved in developing

DNA links with assistance from research organisations to help capitalise on genomic evaluations as they become available assisting in development of critical SNP chips. Coupled with a dramatic 231% increase in the number of Texel lambs being CT scanned this year, the future looks extremely promising for the leading terminal sire breed.”

Northern Ireland National sale reserve overall champion Mullan Supremacy HBN1100274 – 4400gns

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DAIRY

LOCKERBIE DEAL BOOSTS SCOTTISH DAIRY INDUSTRY

The Scottish dairy industry has been boosted by the announcement that the farmerowned business Milk Link is to make a £20 million investment in its Lockerbie creamery, turning it in to the largest milkprocessing site in Scotland.

Milk Link’s decision to opt to invest in Lockerbie rather than at other sites in the UK will see it create one of the most modern, efficient plants in the country and see cheese production at the creamery potentially jump from its existing level of 25,000 tonnes to 37,000 tonnes.

That must be good news for Scottish dairy farmers, as it will mean an additional requirement for 120 million litres of milk, which Scottish dairy farmers are

willing and able to provide.

NFU Scotland Milk Committee Chairman, Kenneth Campbell said: “This is fantastic news for the Scottish dairy sector. The company’s decision to make a £20 million investment in its creamery and create one of the most modern and efficient cheese-making facilities in the country - if not the EU - shows commitment to meeting the rising demand for cheese both at home and abroad. It is also a shot in the arm for the local economy.

“That is just the kind of investment that we want to see here in Scotland if our dairy sector is to add value and continue supplying consumers

at home with fresh, nutritious dairy produce but also have the potential to tap in to rising global demand for dairy products.

“Producing an extra 12,000 tonnes of cheese will need an extra 120 million litres of milk and behind the scenes we have been encouraging Milk Link to look at the opportunities presented by the hugely efficient milk field that already exists on the Lockerbie Creamery’s doorstep. The company has stated that it will now be actively recruiting Scottish dairy farmers to add to the existing 50 Milk Link members in Scotland whom already supply Lockerbie.

“With one third of Scotland’s dairy cows in Dumfries and

Galloway and ample milk being produced in Ayrshire, Lanarkshire and the Borders, there is plenty of milk available for haulage to the plant.

“We hope that there may be more good news of this kind in the pipeline. NFU Scotland is on a mission to encourage ongoing investment into the Scottish dairy sector and this announcement is just the fillip we need before we head to a major dairy conference in Italy in October. Supported by the Scottish Government, we will be using this conference as an opportunity to research the global market with a view to building a business case encouraging dairy processors to consider inward investment in Scotland.

UAE camel dairy extends its future production security Al Ain Dairy, the largest dairy producer and leading dairy brand in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has announced plans to make an investment in new camel milking facilities to deliver long-term supply security and improved milked quality.

For the last few years, Al Ain Dairy, has been actively supporting the research necessary to radically improve the mass production of UAE camel milk and has vastly increased the size of its herd from 800 to 2,500 camels.

Earlier this year the company invested 800,000 AED in state of the art machinery to elevate local bacteria testing to the highest standards to guarantee the quality and excellence that Al Ain Dairy is renowned for.

Now in a bid to further improve production efficiency and milk hygiene, the company – in its 30th anniversary year – has invested in the latest camel milking parlour technology with British technology 26

partners Fullwood Limited.

Chief Operations Officer for Al Ain Dairy, Shashi Menon, said: “Much has been made recently of the global increase in demand for camel milk and there is no doubt that Al Ain Dairy is actively preparing for this increase in international consumption.

“For the last three decades we have led the way in terms of technology in order to maintain our policy of achieving excellence, quality and safety in all aspects of our operations and have looked to work with the best possible partners to help us achieve this.

“We are proud to be associated with Fullwood Limited who have been designing and manufacturing milking equipment for the worldwide market for the last 70 years and who are now installing a state of the art camel milking parlour that will take our production to the next level.”

Strategic partners in ‘lifecycle-neutral’ operations in the dairy business Lely and Green Energy Technologies (GET) have started a joint venture to stimulate ‘lifecycle-neutral’ operations on dairy farms.

For Lely, this co-operation is definitely a clear step within its strategy to develop

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sustainable applications for the agricultural business. Next to the development of products with a proven long life span as well as the lowest possible energy consumption, Lely now also goes for complete business concepts that ensure

D

DAIRY energy-neutral operations in the farming sector. The first project within this joint venture is a new and sustainable manure refining system - AgriMoDEM which has been developed

by GET. Last April, Lely already announced that they would be taking over servicing of this system and now this cooperation is taking a major step forward. Within the joint venture, GET and Lely will develop the system into a fully-fledged product, after which it will be sold

and maintained under the Lely brand and through the Lely distribution channels.

During the coming months, the first AgriMoDEM model will be thoroughly tested and further developed to prepare the product for commercial installations.

The test version of the installation will no longer be accessible to the public so that the partners can totally focus on further developing the system. The partners intend to install another five systems in the Netherlands next year.

Ambrosia announce their commitment to Red Tractor milk

Ambrosia, one of Britain’s best known and loved brands has achieved Red Tractor certification on all core Ambrosia products.

The Red Tractor logo will now appear on Ambrosia packs including Rice, Devon Custard, Semolina, Tapioca and Macaroni. The Red Tractor logo provides an independent guarantee of the high quality standard of the milk used in delicious Ambrosia Devonshire

products and the welfare of the cows it comes from. It also provides a guarantee that all Ambrosia milk is fully traceable back to the farms it came from.

Ambrosia Brand Controller, Lucy Turner says, “Ambrosia has always used high quality ingredients and we are proud to be able to communicate this message using the Red Tractor logo on our packs”.

My thoughts on the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP)

By Richard Lochhead Rural Affairs and Environment Secretary The Scottish Government Now that the European Commission’s proposals for reform of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) have been published, we need to ensure our farmers get a fair deal from reform to continue sustainable and productive farming, to ensure high levels of food supply.

We will negotiate to secure the best possible deal for Scotland’s farmers, and seek a new policy that encourages new entrants into the sector. It is vitally important that stakeholders work together as these negotiations move forward.

In a world of rising populations, and a shortage of land, the CAP’s primary purpose must always be to support food production and the £650 million of support it delivers to Scotland’s farmers every year is vital to ensuring we remain a food producing nation with vibrant rural communities.

Without direct support, our farmers and crofters will simply not be able to afford to produce our food in competition with other nonEU countries that do not have to meet our high standards, and at the same time deliver other public benefits society expects such as biodiversity and reduced carbon emissions.

The key is to ensure the new CAP delivers fairness, flexibility and simplification.

While we need to study the proposals in more detail, there are elements which we are pleased with, including the retention of direct payments in a strong Pillar 1.

It is also good news that the proposals seem to offer greater flexibility in the Pillar 2 Rural Development Regulation and the prospect of a fairer allocation of the Pillar 2 budget.

However, we have real concerns over other elements of the proposals – such as the crop diversification measures which could be difficult, for example, for small farms and crofts with one field of barley, and the capping of direct payments needs careful though as it may simply create a lot of red tape for no real benefit.

After months of preparation and speculation, we can finally start the formal negotiations to secure a fair deal for Scotland’s farmers.

We will take our case to the UK Government, and direct to Europe. We all know this is just the start of a long process and it is important we all now work together to secure the best possible deal for Scottish agriculture and the views of our farmers will be crucial throughout the negotiating process. While we will not get all we want, I am confident that the more effort we all put in, the more we will achieve.

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28

DIET FEEDERS

SIX OF THE BEST

We invited some of the main names in Diet Feeders to tell us about their latest feeders available today, here is a brief look at six of them

Kverneland 600 Series The Kverneland 600 series diet feeders, with large diameter horizontal rotors, are specifically designed to incorporate all feed formats into the ration without the need for pre-chopping.

Using two horizontal augers, the 600 series offers a good balance between the need to cut long or baled materials, and the need for efficient, thorough mixing of all components. The result is a quality, homogenous feed material.

There are eight models in the 600 series, including the KD608, KD610, KD612, KD614, KD616 and KD618 models, with capacities ranging from eight to 18 cubic metres.

Both augers rotate towards the centre of the hopper and work in conjunction with a centrally mounted shear bar to chop longer, fibrous materials – this results in fast incorporation of bales.

The shear bar can be easily removed from the mixing chamber if not

W & A Geddes Ltd

Main Dealers for

Diet Feeders

W & A Geddes Ltd

7 River St, Wick, Caithness. Tel: 01955 602207 Unit 14 A1/A2, Ormlie Ind. Est., Thurso. Tel: 01847 891651 Croftbank Garage, Victoria Road, Brora. Tel: 01408 621220 28 30

Kverneland 600 Series

required or it can be adjusted to suit different material types and formats being mixed. It is a feature that enables feed materials in most formats to be included in the ration. And this creates ultimate flexibility in formulating rations.

A highly accurate weighing system using three-point mounting of the weigh cells guarantees accuracy, which is an essential part of successful diet feeding.

With an easy to read display - mounted on a rotating arm – the weigh scale can be viewed from either side of the machine or from the tractor cab. With an optional remote control, the scale is easily reset to zero from the loader allowing individual weighing of feed components, instead of a cumulative total.

Single and dual conveyor discharge options are available, to suit feed regimes.

Keenan’s Mech-fiber™ Mixer Range It’s the biggest breakthrough in livestock feeding for 20

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years, insists mixer wagon manufacturer Keenan when discussing its Mech-fiber™ feeding system.

The importance of the new system has prompted the recent development of a whole new range of diet feeders, the Mech-fiber range – a lineup of six models offering mixing capacities to meet the requirements of today’s dairy and beef units, whether they be large or small.

All models have a build which provides a capacity that perhaps belies their compact dimensions and, as such, provides a high degree of manoeuvrability in buildings where space is limited.

At the heart of the Mechfiber mixing process are six angled castellated paddles which rotate at just seven turns a minute to create a gentle tumbling action and, at the same time, sweep material through a series of fixed carbon steel blades to reduce material length to the required length.

The result is a uniform fibrous diet – Keenan

DIET FEEDERS describes it as having a ‘bird’s nest’ appearance which extensive trials have demonstrated promotes optimum digestibility, full utilisation of the feed and greater levels of feed efficiency.

Power requirement for the paddles is remarkably small due to the low gearing achieved by a simple, autolubricated, two-chain and sprocket reduction drive from the pto. The mid-range 320 model, for example, needs only 80hp and even the range topping 400 only requires a tractor with 120hp. For those who feed round or square bales of silage, hay or straw, the new Baleblend processor takes only minutes to shred, chop and include material into the ration – once again ensuring that optimum chop length is achieved.

Keenan Mech-Fiber 400

Dealers for Strautmann Feeders Forfar Perth Laurencekirk Dundonald Doune

Tel: 01307 462281 Tel: 01738 583249 Tel: 01561 378888 Tel: 01563 851900 Tel: 01786 842921

www.agricar.co.uk www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

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DIET FEEDERS New electronic feed management system for Hi-Spec feeders Hi-Spec Engineering has become one of the first in the UK to offer the full Digi-Star TMR Tracker feed system on their diet feeders, which offers herd managers complete TMR ration management.

The Digi-Star feed system comprises of two elements, the TMR Tracker computer software that is used to create, cost and manage the ration mix, and the Cab Control system that is fitted to the diet feeder.

TMR Tracker is a powerful and versatile feed management programme that is designed to provide livestock farmers with all the information they need to accurately manage the feed ration, increase efficiency and help improve overall production.

Hi-Spec vertical feeder

J & W Tait Ltd Agricultural Merchants

D-K-R

AGRICULTURAL SERVICES LTD.

Main Dealers for TAARUP DIET FEEDERS

For all details on JF STOLL FEEDERS contact us now...

SALES • SERVICE • BACK-UP Haston Industrial Estate, Kirkwall, Orkney, KW15 1RE

Tel: 01856 873003

Fax: 01856 876133

www.taitorkney.co.uk 32

D-K-R AGRICULTURAL SERVICES LTD. Westfield, Coulter, Biggar, Lanarkshire ML12 6HN Tel. 01899 220897 • FAX. 01899 221413 E-Mail: dkrcoulter@hotmail-com

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DIET FEEDERS Using TMR Tracker, information on the TMR ingredients, mixes and production groups can all be entered and stored on the computer. Depending on requirements, three levels of functionality are available – Lite, Pro and Pro+ - which can be easily upgraded online.

Using the software, having entered ingredient details, additional information such as cost, dry matter values and dry matter intake can all be stored, and various reports and costings can be compiled. In addition, this information can also be transferred across into more general farm management programmes.

TMR Tracker also provides access to online support or an international help desk.

Abbey VF180

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33

DIET FEEDERS

West feeder

Vertical feeders from Abbey The Abbey vertical diet feeder range is available in 3 different options - single auger, twin auger and tri-auger. Models have capacities ranging from 7 cubic metres up to 33 cubic metres with a host of feed-out options.

The Abbey vertical feeder range comes with a host of key features and is powered by a heavy duty industrial gearbox. This unit powers the uniquely designed mixing auger which carries out the dual function of both chopping and mixing while lifting the feed ingredients up through its gently flighted

34

auger and then drawn down along the side and the cycle begins again. The Abbey vertical mixer range has the ability to handle all animal feed ingredients. Roots can be chopped and mixed with other ingredients in one operation and incorporated alongside big bales of hay, straw and silage. All ingredients can be added to make a completely mixed TMR for livestock.

The mixing auger design allows for a much lower horse power requirement due to its gradual flighting.

The lower auger design allows for less floor stress when adding whole hay bales,

placing much less pressure on the working parts of the machines.

Latest from Harry West Harry West (Prees) Ltd unveiled their latest Diet Feeder to join their successful range of feeders, with a capacity of 12 m³ and 16 m³ and many new innovations incorporated in the design of the new models.

This new product has been introduced to satisfy the current demand for larger capacity units. As always with Harry West manufactured Diet Feeders, they feature low power requirement (80 hp) and high feed out

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(5’3”) coupled with West’s renowned build quality and reliability factors.

This unit is available now, and features a mechanical transmission for low power drive requirement. West Diet Feeder; at 540 rpm input into the reduction gearbox drives the main mixing auger via a chain and a tractor hydraulic supplies drives the feed out rotor via a planetary reduction unit.

The mixing section inside the body has been redesigned to give a central feed out; this gives a thorough mixing action inside the body with new profile sweeper arms and mixing paddles incorporated within the discharge chamber.

The hydraulically operated discharge door is operated independently to allowing for a smooth and fast feed out at the same time continuously mixing until the chamber is empty. Giving a fast mixing and high feed out (5’ 3”) without the need for conveyors, this unit is ideal for the 80 - 130 dairy cow units where barriers and ring feeders are used. Feed out can also be used straight to the floor.

The machine is equipped with 385/65R 22.5 tyres on a heavy duty braked axle and standard 10 ingredients x 10 programmed weigh system.

DIET FEEDERS

Strautmann Verti-Mix 1050

Available for demonstration now the recommended retail prices are £26,950 for the 12m³ and £28,900 for the 16m³ Strautmann Feeders Specialists in agricultural feeding techniques, Strautmann manufacture a large range of

diet feeders, loader wagons and muck spreaders from their factory in Germany.

Distributed in the UK through RECO, the Vertimix range of diet feeders offers capacities between 7.5m – 28m³ through either single or twin auger machines, offering a range to suit small

farmers, large-scale farmers or contractors alike.

Vertical fodder mixing trailers are the one and only fodder mixing system in cattle-keeping enterprises. As the stables on grown cattle-keeping farms particularly differ in the clearance dimensions

and the discharge height, the manufacturers of feedmixers are currently offering plenty of various discharge alternatives to meet the individual requirements.

The Strautmann C-conveyor is a crossover conveyor based on a flexible frame structure.

This crossover conveyor can be operated from the tractor’s seat in a wide variety of operating conditions without modification measures.

Apart from the variety of operating conditions, a particularly interesting feature is the width of the machine equipped with a C-conveyor, which is not more than that of a fodder mixing vehicle equipped with a standard crossover conveyor.

Vertical fodder mixing vehicles equipped with a C-conveyor therefore excel by maximum flexibility while offering the proven compactness of the machine, thus enabling the farmers to feed all their animals by means of only one machine.

Annoying modification measures are not necessary.

DEALERS KEY (Participating Dealers in this feature) ABBEY John McNae www.mcnae.net Tarbolton : 01292 541920 HARRY WEST MLM Engineering www.mlmengineering.co.uk Orphir : 01856 811282 HI SPEC AM Phillip www.amphillip.co.uk Forfar : 01307 474001 Huntly : 01466 799222 Fraserburgh : 01346 541351 Glenrothes : 01592 775511

Bryson Tractors www.brysontractors.co.uk Lanark : 01555 660888 Linklater Engineering www.linklaterengineering.co.uk Stenness : 01856 851000 KEENAN Reekie Group www.reekie.co.uk Cupar : 01334 652 445 Perth : 01738 622471 Stirling : 01786 477530 KVERNELAND Earnvale Tractors www.earnvaletractors.com Balbeggie : 01828 627007

J & S Montgomery www.jsmontgomery.co.uk Lochwinnoch : 01505 842356 Stranraer : 01776 707030

Berwick upon Tweed : 01289 331904 Kelso : 01573 225213 Macmerry : 01875 617323

J & W Tait www.jandwtaitltd.co.uk Kirkwall : 01856 873003 Ross of Lanark Lanark : 01555 665025

Bruce Farm Machinery www.brucefarmmachinery.co.uk Banff : 01261 821659

W & A Geddes Wick : 01955 602207 Brora : 01408 621220 STRAUTMANN Ancroft Tractors www.ancroft-tractors.co.uk

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Bryson Tractors www.brysontractors.co.uk Lanark : 01555 660888 MLM Engineering www.mlmengineering.co.uk Orphir : 01856 811282

35

LIVESTOCK

Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) launches new export strategy

NFU invests in Beef

The National Farmers Union (NFU) is launching a new campaign to promote British beef as an exceptionally versatile and nourishing meal option.

The integrated campaign will target consumers with digital, PR, advertising and retailer engagement to inspire cooks to put British beef on the menu for their families to create nutritious, great value meals.

Working closely with Ladies in Beef the campaign will be fronted by Lynda Bellingham, a farmer’s daughter and star of ITV’s Loose Women and Calendar Girls. Ladies in Beef was launched by HRH Princess Anne, The Princess Royal in March 2011, and promotes awareness of the quality and versatility of British beef to consumers using its countrywide network of dynamic lady beef ‘champions’. All the ladies are British beef farmers and proud of it!

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A new strategy aimed at further developing the market for Scotch Beef and Scotch Lamb into the wider European market was announced at the world’s biggest food trade fair today.

In its first major revision since 2006, the new strategy, which has been developed in collaboration with Scottish exporters, outlines a three pronged approach to both supporting established markets and helping Scotland’s products gain a foothold in other areas in both Europe and beyond.

Jim McLaren, Chairman, QMS said: “The initial four target markets identified by QMS in 2006 have been very successful for the Scottish red meat industry. Awareness of our product in France, Italy, The Netherlands and Belgium amongst wholesalers and retailers is at the point where we can refocus our campaigns from helping develop market opportunities to now helping build consumer demand.

“We’ve overcome the initial challenge of establishing a network of retailers throughout the four countries who are selling and promoting Scotch Beef and Scotch Lamb, and we can now move to a position similar to established home markets such as London, where we can focus on building a demand from consumers and the foodservice sector.”

In the quarter to September 2010 the industry has exported beef and lamb to the value of £18.4 million, 80% of which was to our current target markets.

The market in the four countries is now worth an estimated £44.7 million to the Scottish industry.

LIVESTOCK

PREMADEX POUR ON PREDAMEX PHOTO

A trial, using the same ivermectin formulation at the recommended dosage rates, demonstrated that heavy, simulated rainfall, either 1 hour prior to application, or up to 24 hours after application, will not affect the efficacy of Premadex Pour-On in cattle.

In the trial, using simulated rain, treatment efficacy was assessed by the percentage reduction in nematode egg counts found in dung samples relative to a group, which were treated with a placebo.

Premadex Pour-On for cattle effectively and economically treats roundworms, lungworms, warbles, mites and lice. The product is applied at the rate of 1ml per 10kg body weight.

Competitively priced, Premadex Pour-On is available in a range of pack sizes to suit every farm situation. The 1-litre pack is selfdispensing, while the 2.5-litre

and 5-litre back packs are best applied with Downland’s exclusive Premadex Pour-On gun.

Manufactured by Virbac Ltd, Premadex Pour-On is part of ivermectin products for cattle, pigs and sheep in the Downland range.

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So when you are thinking about combating parasite problems in cattle, there’s one word you need to remembe Premadex

37

LIVESTOCK

Maraiscote wins Scottish Limousin pedigree herd competition The 2011 Scottish Limousin Pedigree Herd Competition was judged by Brian Jones of the noted Bailea Herd, Heol Senni, Sennybridge, Brecon, Powys who commented: “Production for me is the most important factor because it is calves which provide the future for the farm and keep the herd going. At Maraiscote, I found both the production of female breeding offspring as well as future sires excellent. In addition, the senior herd sire, Virginia Andy, was one of the best bulls I saw during judging.”

Commenting on his win Ian

Nimmo said: “The Limousin breed is very strong in Scotland with a lot of quality herds. As such I am absolutely delighted to have won this title and to go forward to represent Scotland in the National Final.” 2011 has been another big year for the herd with the Scottish Pedigree Herd title being won in addition to the 2011 Royal Highland Supreme Limousin title that was secured in June with the yearling bull Maraiscote Floyd. This young bull also went on to win a red ticket at the 2011 National Limousin Show held in Carlisle in July.

Most dominant calf scour pathogens can be controlled

Cryptosporidium parvum and rotavirus are the most dominant calf scour-causing organisms on UK cattle units, according to the latest published data from the MSD Animal Health ScourCheck scheme.

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“The latest diagnostic data from calf-side faecal samples taken by participating veterinary practices show over 32% testing positive for cryptosporidia with more than 29% positive for rotavirus. In

the samples submitted, these two pathogens caused the majority of infectious scour outbreaks on UK calf units, but the good news is that their impact can be controlled,” said MSD Animal Health livestock

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veterinary adviser Alfredo Sanz Moreno MRCVS. He stressed that many calf unit scour problems could be overcome with a dam vaccination regime. “Good cow nutrition and calving hygiene, coupled with vaccination of the dam with Rotavec Corona 12 to 3 weeks before calving is a very effective way of reducing scour problems caused by rotavirus, E.coli K99 and coronavirus. Calves gain protection against these key disease-causing organisms by drinking the antibodyrich colostrum from their vaccinated mothers.”

Scour problems caused by cryptosporidia can also be managed, he said.

“Implementing sound hygiene protocols and the use of Halocur will definitely help.

This unique medication reduces the severity of the disease in individual calves and reduces the output of cryptosporidia oocysts, which cuts the risk of disease spread.”

LIVESTOCK

New opportunity to boost UK pork consumption

Assuring taint-free meat holds the key to raising UK pork consumption, according to Nigel Lodge, MRCVS, national veterinary manager of Pfizer Animal Health.

With UK consumption less than a third that of a number of other European countries, eliminating the risk of boar taint could significantly change the situation, he told delegates at a series of Improvac® Experience Day events held in Yorkshire.

Mr Lodge said it was estimated that 20 per cent of intact male pigs could be affected by boar taint at the normal slaughter age in the UK and that one in four people, especially women, are highly sensitive to taint.

“The risk of boar taint is very real and it does cause most family butchers to source pork only from gilts,” said Mr Lodge.

Over lunch, delegates had the opportunity to taste pork from an Improvac-vaccinated pig which would otherwise have entered the food chain via the butchery route.

Following presentations and discussion around some of the potential industry benefits of vaccinating with Improvac, 40

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the attendees were taken to the University of Leeds farm at Hazlewood to see for themselves the difference between vaccinated and non-vaccinated pigs. By blocking production of the male sex hormone testosterone, the vaccine also results in much quieter behaviour as seen on the unit.

“The change in behaviour is dramatic with significant animal welfare benefits,” said Mr Lodge.

“There is much less aggression and mounting, both of which can lead to injury and lameness.

In fact, the vaccinated pigs just want to eat, drink and sleep – burning up far less calories than the intact males.

“All producers are seeking to reduce their costs and using Improvac brings an appreciable benefit in the later stages of finishing,” said Mr Lodge.

“The increased daily weight gain could enable producers to finish pigs up to a week earlier.

In addition, elimination of boar taint gives producers the option of taking pigs to heavier weights to meet specific demands of processors and retailers, as other European producers have been able to do with castrated males.”

Scottish National Premier Meat Exhibition

The Scottish National Premier Meat Exhibition is without doubt one of the most prestigious events in the winter calendar for livestock farmers.

Sponsored by Scotbeef Ltd and Marks and Spencer Plc, the event involves showing animals on the hoof at Caledonian Marts, Stirling, then following them through the process at the abattoir until they are judged on the hook.

Over 120 exhibitors from all over Scotland and the north of England benefit from the

educational experience of handling their stock then having them graded by the experts at Scotbeef.

This year the live judging takes place at Caledonian Marts on Wednesday 16th November with the cattle and sheep then judged at Scotbeef’s state of the art abattoir at Bridge of Allan on the Friday evening. The exhibitors are then invited to find out the results on Saturday when they also enjoy a delicious lunch courtesy of Scotbeef and M & S.

Union asks for changes to flock inspection approach NFU Scotland has asked Scottish Government to consider a new approach to flock inspections that could see official visits fit around routine gatherings planned by the producer.

Each year, the Scottish Government is obliged to carry out a number of sheep counts and identification checks. These require producers to gather and present animals for inspection, often from vast areas, in difficult weather conditions and at very short notice. That process clearly places pressure on farm routines and staff, particularly on hill units and in crofting areas where common grazings are used.

The Union is calling on the Scottish Government to consider

giving sheep keepers the option of indicating to officials when routine gatherings of sheep are likely to take place in order to better facilitate any inspections that may be planned. It would also help avoid sheep being gathered at sensitive and crucial times in the sheep calendar, such as tupping and lambing.

NFU Scotland’s President Nigel Miller said: “Every year sheep farmers, particularly those on hill ground or on common grazings, raise their concerns over being asked to gather sheep at short notice, sometimes at lambing or tupping time and occasionally in conditions that can be difficult for man and beast.

THE VET

LIVESTOCK

Feeling a bit Moby Dick? - Time to vent your problems!

By Andy Cant Northvet Veterinary Group There was 50 foot sperm whale off the end of Kirkwall pier this morning – wow!

Every now and then as it wallowed in the calm waters its blow hole opened and a blast of air shot a fine mist up into the air. It was a graphic example of the moisture contained in our breath when we breathe out. A cow will breathe out a minimum of 10 litres of water a day which all has to go somewhere.

Cows are also putting out a lot of heat estimated to be the equivalent of a 700W electric heater. Younger cattle will be churning out the same pro rata. This combination of heat and moisture in the air is just the right environment for the survival and spread of respiratory viruses and bacteria. When animals are housed good ventilation is essential to pull out all the stale warm air and replace it with cool fresh air. This also removes gases such as ammonia and methane as well as dust, all of which can irritate the respiratory tract. Where pneumonia is a problem in housed cattle assessing the ventilation in your sheds is the first thing to do.

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Natural ventilation relies on the “stack effect”. Warm air is buoyant and rises creating a vacuum below which pulls in fresh air. This mechanism relies on having large enough ridge openings for air to escape and larger openings for fresh air to come in at the correct places. 50% of buildings are thought to have inadequate openings so it worth us getting out the tape measure! Many older buildings were not built with todays stocking densities in mind or indeed the greater growth rates which equates to more heat and moisture production.

Stocking densities are important, there can be problems having too few to drive the stack effect as well as having too many.

Doing the calculations is all very well but a smoke bomb is a good way of visually letting you know how the air in a building is moving. The usual problem is too little outlet area at the ridge and correction may be a relatively easy matter of widening the ridge space slightly.

As for our whale he disappeared off after a few hours into the depths of his shed – no ventilation problems, no pneumonia. Sorry did I say shed … ocean, of course.

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AGRI GADGETS

Here we look at the very latest agricultural gadgets on the market.

We want to hear about your new tech, your latest life changing gadgets.

Send in your stories to: mail@farmingscotlandmagazine.com

Electric with light orchestrations Seen for the first time at Saltex, CityFort is an exciting new range of eco friendly electric powered vans and trucks. Road legal and right hand drive these zero emission vehicles are congestion charge and road tax exempt, making them ideal for a whole variety of tasks in and around the city. Built on a lightweight aluminium frame there are numerous body options to suit a diversity of uses from deliveries and grounds maintenance to waste and facilities management, working silently around shopping centres, parks, amenity and leisure areas.

The efficient size and 915kg weight is perfectly suited to negotiating driveways and

narrow streets while being kind to delicate ground. The electric asynchronous three phase 48v engine delivers the power to carry a 530kg payload with a maximum speed of 45Km/h and a capability of up to 80 miles on a full charge, depending on the load and use. The battery recharge time is eight hours with the incorporated charger so it can be easily charged overnight ready for the next day’s work. CityFort has a reputation for built-in reliability as well as offering the user comfort and safety with good all round vision. Suspension is independent MacPherson strut and options include a 3 speed heater, hydraulic lift, a radio and automatic battery charger.

Electric Powered Solutions, the sole UK distributor, say the CityFort can be supplied in many different configurations to suit councils and contractors,

offering low-cost, ecologically sound logistics solutions.

For details visit www. electricpoweredsolutions.co.uk or call 05600 759558.

NEXT GENERATION PEDOMETERS GIVE UNSURPASSED LEVELS OF ACTIVITY MONITORING A new generation of pedometers, launched by Fullwood, offers farmers the ability to gather improved levels of cow activity and inactivity data, allowing them to improve herd health and boost milk yields while reducing production costs and limiting veterinary expenses.

The Crysta Act+ pedometer from Fullwood not only provides early warning of heat and potential health disorders, but can also provide early warning of the onset of calving.

By employing an accelerometer to measure rest or lying time as well as the number of rest or lying periods, the new Crysta Act+ system builds a much more accurate picture of animal behaviour than traditional activity-triggered pedometers.

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“A well-fed, healthy cow should spend a minimum of 12 to 14 hours lying down and ruminating each day,” explains John Baines, Technical Director for Fullwood Limited.

“Crysta Act+ not only monitors activity levels through step counting, but also measures periods of cow inactivity.

NORBROOK LAUNCH VET iPHONE APP Norbrook has just launched a new iPhone app designed to give veterinary professionals essential pharmaceutical product information at the touch of a button.

The Norbrook Veterinary Excellence Tool incorporates information on the company’s full range of animal health medicines including pharmaceutical presentation, uses, dosage and administration, withdrawal periods, contraindications &

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warnings and pharmaceutical precautions The Norbrook VET app also has a facility which will keep users up-todate with relevant industry and company news and a dedicated Contact Us section which will allow customers better communication channels with the company.

The Norbrook VET iPhone App is available to download direct from the iTunes store or via the Norbrook website at www.norbrook.com.

FUTUREfarmer NFUS President hails hands-on education and training at Oatridge

“Flavour of Scotland” TASTER & COMPETITION By Athole Murray Fleming

A Selection of Highland Fine Cheeses Nigel Miller, the President of the National Union of Farmers in Scotland, has offered a ringing endorsement of the sort of agricultural training and education provided by Oatridge College in West Lothian.

Speaking as he formally opened a new £400,000 beef unit on Oatridge’s 283-hectare mixed farm he stressed the importance of the practical, hands-on experience given to students, who he said would be vital to tackling a growing labour shortage and driving the industry forward.“There’s probably never been a more important time to attract new people, because the present age profile is such that in the next few years there’s going to be a huge gap,” he said. “Not only that, we have to up our game and get a lot more sophisticated in how we produce food and we’ve got food targets, which means that we have got to produce more.

“Apart from having the technical expertise – being aware of sophisticated techniques, whether it be genetics, electronics or in crops, field mapping – we need people, including future farm managers, to have the hands-on skills to make things happen on a farm.

Without them we won’t be able to drive farming forward. The sort of set-up here at Oatridge, the spectrum of facilities, provides a fantastic platform for the future.” Mr Miller described the state-of-the-art beef unit,

with its fully integrated handling systems, as “a dream” for most farmers but he said: “Anybody who comes here will leave with the vision to drive development on farms and get them it up to these standards.”

Oatridge is the biggest of the landbased colleges in Scotland providing the sort of practical experience in agriculture which Nigel Miller believes is imperative. The College is currently in formal talks about a merger with a partner in Scottish Countryside Colleges, Elmwood in Fife, and the Scottish Agricultural College, a leading research centre which offers courses to degree level in agriculture.

During the opening ceremony at the new 3,500-square metre beef unit, Oatridge Principal David James revealed that there has been a 15% increase in the number of applicants enrolled for agricultural courses in the current academic year. He stressed the College’s national remit, with only 45% of learners in the full range of disciplines originating in the immediate Edinburgh and the Lothians area.

Oatridge has invested more than £8 million in recent years for a new learning centre, new agricultural and horticultural engineering workshops, the international-standard Scottish National Equestrian Centre and now, the re-development of the farm steading.

Highland Fine Cheeses Ltd Another lunchtime and another “taste test”, and this time sitting before us where three distinctly different artisan cheeses from Tain. With tastebuds at the ready we began.

Strathdon Blue. The aroma filled the room when I opened this magnificently veined blue giant. There was an immediate tingle on the tongue as the soapy delight hit my brain, followed by a deep saltiness that was powerful enough for me to comment on at the time. Here we have a cheese in the early years of its evolution, not one for everyone as it is very strong, but also pretty fab, if you like your cheese with big muscles!

Tain Truckle. This was a classic cheddar with sweet undertones, dense enough, but not crumbly. Smooth textures and a lingering after-taste was noted as we crunched into our cheese crackers too. This is no mild cheddar, but a full blown and rather surprisingly sweet one at that.

Morangie Brie. Wow, the smell of cabbage exploded into the air when we opened this fine piece of work! This warm, smooth and silky brie was our favourite I have to admit.

Simply wonderful sensation in feel and taste. Quite often in restaurants for example, the Brie is tasteless or bland at best. This Brie from the HFC was superb.

Now 3 LUCKY READERS will have the chance to sample ALL THREE of the featured cheeses in this column. All you have to do is to answer the simple question and email me.

Remember to include your name and contact details.

The first 3 correct answers drawn on Friday 9th December will be the winners.

FLAVOUR OF SCOTLAND READER COMPETITION Q. What is the name of the farm where these artisan cheeses are made?

Hint: Read “Flavour of Scotland” feature on page 9 EMAIL YOUR ANSWER TO: mail@farmingscotlandmagazine.com

www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

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FINANCE

New ATV Trade-in offer from Suzuki

Suzuki GB PLC has announced a new trade-in offer, giving customers £250 off a new KingQuad when they trade in their used ATV*.

The offer is available at all authorised Suzuki ATV dealers and applies to any new Suzuki KingQuad model, from the

economic 400 right through to the robust 750 Power Steering.

The trade-in campaign runs till 31st December 2011 and any used ATV can be traded-in regardless of the age, make or condition.

The offer is available on all KingQuad models including

the KingQuad 400. This popular model comes equipped with selectable 2 or 4-wheel drive, perfect for tackling everything from tricky hillsides to intricate landscapes. The 400 also features an efficient fuel-injected 376cc engine with the choice of a 5-speed

plus reverse manual or a fully automatic transmission, both with high and low ranges to get you up, over, down or around any obstacle.

To find your local dealer, or for more information visit www.suzuki-atv.co.uk or call 0500 011 959.

Agricultural firms warned over incorrect HMRC annual return fines

Leading North West accountants Mitchell Charlesworth is warning small firms to be wary of a slew of inaccurate fines being issued in the last month by HM Revenue & Customs for late submissions of end-of year tax returns.

Mitchell Charlesworth issued its plea after the case of Hok Ltd v HMR&C, which saw the firm’s £400 fine for failing to file a P35 reduced to £100, because the penalty was not sent out until four months after the error was made.

A further HMR&C computing issue has seen

a number of Mitchell Charlesworth clients receiving penalties for non-submission of P35 forms – despite logging nil returns with the HMR&C website.

The firm said that even though submission receipts were emailed to firms, nil

return submissions had not been recorded.

Mrs Nieman added that a recent investigation at HMR&C revealed a problem in dealing with P35 ‘no return to make’ notifications. This has resulted in some penalty notices being issued in error.

Changes to Red Tractor Assurance Farm Standards

Certification Bodies have started assessing Red Tractor Assurance (RTA) farm members against the revised RTA Farm scheme standards.

The revisions are the result of a regular review of the standards to ensure they continue to be in line with legislation and reflect good agricultural practice consistent with industry needs and expectations. The review involved experts from across the industry and farming sectors and included a public consultation in spring 2011.

All RTA farm members received notification of the planned revision of standards in the June member newsletter.

In addition, they should also recently have received further 44

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notice of the changes from their individual Certification Body or milk first purchaser.

David Clarke, CEO at Red Tractor Assurance said: ‘At Red Tractor, we’re committed to ensuring high standards in food and farming. This latest review helps to ensure that the Red Tractor standards continue to progress in line with the latest industry needs without adding unnecessary costs or complexity’ ‘Farmers are advised to check they meet the revised requirements and prepare for their audits in advance by reading the RTA Farm scheme addendums they have been sent or downloading a copy from the RTA website www. redtractorassurance.org.uk.’

NEW FINANCE OPTION FOR ROBOTIC MILKERS FROM LLOYDS TSB AGRICULTURE

Dairy farmers looking to invest in robotic milking equipment can now access asset finance through Lloyds TSB Agriculture which could help to spread the cost of the equipment and improve farm business cash flow.

“We have looked at the role that robotic milking plays in modern dairy farming businesses, including the detail of the technology and resale value of the equipment,” he said at the 2011 Dairy Event and Livestock Show. “We have also commissioned a wider independent report into the UK dairy sector as part of this analysis.

“We have a network of around 150 dedicated

agricultural specialists in local teams available to provide guidance and help to evaluate farm investment proposals.

Robotic milking could certainly be a consideration for dairy farms of 150 cows plus with a sound rationale for investment, and asset finance could be one of a number of options to finance that investment.”

Lloyds TSB Agriculture has also confirmed that robotic milking equipment is eligible for discounted loan rates that are currently available for a limited period under the bank’s European Investment Bank (EIB) scheme. Whilst funds are available, the EIB scheme offers a 0.8% discount on the normal loan interest rate.

SCOTTISH LAND & ESTATES COMMEND GOVERNMENTS RURAL SUPPORT COMMITMENT

Scottish Land & Estate has welcomed the renewed commitment in the Scottish Government’s spending review to provide continued financial support to rural communities across the country.

Douglas McAdam, Chief Executive of Scottish Land & Estates, said: ”We are delighted that the Scottish Government recognises that farmers, land managers and fishermen are often the mainstay of fragile

rural communities and have committed to continue to provide them with much needed financial support.

“We realise that funding is increasingly scarce across a range of policy areas in Scotland. The Scottish Government should therefore be applauded for ensuring that supporting the rural economy and rural communities remains at the heart of their programme for office in the years that lie ahead.”

FINANCE

Battered Wives Syndrome By Andrew Turnbull

Farmers are among the most loyal of business folk. In most circumstances, loyalty is a commendable trait and we like to have customers who keep coming back to us to buy our produce or our services.

But loyalty has to be earned and I never fail to be surprised and frustrated by farmers who, no matter how badly they have been treated by their bank or lender, will, in the end, elect to stay where they are quoting that old adage “better the de’il you ken…”

In other areas of commerce and industry business owners will more readily change banks (and solicitors, accountants, etc.) when service levels fall or they feel they are not getting the support they need.

There are many farmers who have banked with the one bank for many years – often for two or three generations – who have not been treated kindly over recent years. These are not just anecdotal cases but real situations my colleagues and I constantly come across “in the field”.

Farmers must be prepared to look elsewhere when funding for projects is not forthcoming from their usual source rather than sit and brood because “things ain’t what they used to be”.

When I moan to my MD that another of my clients will not move to a new bank because of this misplaced (and one-way) loyalty he puts it down to “battered wives syndrome”. No matter how unbearable the relationship with the incumbent banker has become, some farmers will accept the bruising and maybe even blame themselves.

Andrew Turnbull CA is an Area Director, based in Perth, with First Independent Finance where he specialises in agricultural and industrial loans and mortgages and farming input loans.

His contact details are: Mobile: 07720 886272, Phone 01738 624671, email aturnbull@f-I-f.co.uk

GRIMME INVEST €7.5 MILLION IN NEW WEB PRODUCTION FACILITY

Grimme has invested €7.5 million in a state of the art 10,000m2 development and production centre near to its Damme headquarters, from where it will significantly increase manufacturing output of its sieving and conveying

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webs for new and existing customers.

From 2012 the new facility will employ over 80 staff employees who will be able to produce more than 4,500 web variations to satisfy a growing global market.

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FINANCE

New monitor farm appointed for Eastern Cairngorms

A local team of farmers has helped Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) appoint a father and son enterprise as the first Donside farm to be involved in Scotland’s Monitor Farm Programme.

Monitor Farms are a platform for one farm in an area, supported by a community group, to look at the productivity and profitability of the whole farm business over a three year period. The Monitor Farmer seeks to improve farm profitability through a process of peer review and advice, specialist input and support from the Monitor Farm Facilitator.

Lost Farm at Strathdon, within the Cairngorms National

Park, is run by Charles and George Gordon. The current operation is the result of a recent merger between their two separate businesses and there are several enterprises and sites within the business. All are sited within the Cairngorms National Park.

Lost extends to 457ha comprising 24ha crops, 68ha temporary grazing, 219ha permanent grazing, 140ha rough grazing with 6ha made over to neeps and another 9ha allocated to environmental schemes such as wild bird seed and rush management Land Management Options (LMOs).

All crops grown on the farm are fed to stock.

The unit currently runs 90

suckler cows, 80 to 90 stores, around 60 bulling heifers, 920 ewes plus 400 hogs and around 1,400 lambs. The progeny from the suckler cows are sold as yearlings and the bulling heifers are calved and then sold with calves at foot. The lambs are either sold store or finished, depending on market conditions.

A selection panel from within the Cairngorms National Park has appointed Alister Laing and David Ross of SAC as the facilitators responsible for overseeing the Cairngorms Monitor Farm.

Commenting on the appointment, QMS Technical Projects Manager Peter Beattie said: “When the previous farm came to the end of its three year tenure as the area Monitor Farm, QMS launched the search for a successor.

“The criteria for selection specified that the farm needed to be typical of livestock farms in the Eastern Cairngorms and an assured member of the QMS Cattle and Sheep Scheme.

Farming has to be the full-time profession of at least one of the family members and the farmer needs to be keen to discuss

their hopes and aspirations for their business with a group of neighbouring farmers.”

“Charles and George Gordon have a business that is currently evolving, in the wake of their merger, with the aim of fully amalgamating their enterprises. They are both well-known in the area which should encourage other farmers to become involved.”

Mr Beattie continued: “Lost will provide an excellent opportunity for farmers, both locally and further afield, to consider options to improve their businesses and step up production efficiency and profits from their livestock enterprises. We are looking forward to working with Charles and Gordon over the next three years.”

The funding for the three year project is valued at £88,900 and this will be delivered both financially and in-kind. The principal project funders are QMS, the Scottish Government and the Cairngorms National Park Authority with support from the National Farmers Union of Scotland, Johnston Carmichael and CKD Galbraith.

Polaris offers 0% finance

Polaris is offering business users 0% finance on all new Polaris ATVs and UTVs from the 1st October to the 31st of December. The 0% finance scheme will be over twenty four months and is managed through Polaris’ finance partners Rural Finance. The deal allows for up to a maximum 80% of the Recommended Retail Price 46

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and will include an accessory subsidy of up to £1000 excluding VAT on genuine Polaris accessories. As this is a limited period offer Polaris recommends contacting your nearest Polaris dealer as soon as possible for full details and any special deals available. The 5% discount for NFU members is also applicable.

RENEWABLEENERGY

UK RENEWABLE OUTPUT UP BY 50 PER CENT IN 2011

Commenting on 2010 renewables output figures from the Department of Energy and Climate Change, Niall Stuart, Chief Executive of Scottish Renewables, said: “The figures show that even in an exceptionally dry and calm year, renewables still met over 30 per cent of the annual demand for electricity from every home and business in Scotland. This reinforces that the sector is now a major part of our energy mix, and a significant part of our economy.

“Our hydro sector met more

than 10 per cent of sales to consumers across the country.

“The report also shows massive growth in output in the first half of 2011 – wind up by 120 per cent and hydro up by 75 per cent this year as wind and rainfall returned to normal – meaning that renewables are providing greater levels of power than ever before.

“The sector is meeting a growing proportion of electricity demand in the UK and Scotland and this year will save yet more carbon emissions from our power sector.”

The European Union must make a drastic shift from fossil fuels and derive more and more of its power from renewable sources, driving up electricity costs over the next two decades, according to a draft document. ]The 2050 energy road map to be published by the end of the year complements a 2050 low carbon road map released by the European Commission earlier this year, which seeks to chart a way to reducing carbon emissions by more than 80 percent by the middle of the century.

“Currently, Europe’s power system is based mostly on fossil fuels. This has to change,” the draft energy 2050 road map writes.

“Most scenarios suggest that electricity prices will rise to 2030, but fall thereafter,” it said.

The cost in energy-related expenditure could result in a rise to as much as 15 percent of a household’s income in 2030 and 16 percent in 2050, although this would include capital costs and transport fuel costs.

A spokeswoman said the Commission did not comment on leaked drafts.

Environmental groups argue renewable prices will become much cheaper relative to fossil fuels over time.

The road map lists a series of scenarios to take account of differing levels of energy efficiency, varying levels of renewable energy, a possible delay in implementation of carbon capture and storage technology and whether more or less nuclear energy is used.

Even without extra renewables investment, investment costs would rise, the draft notes. The EU has said elsewhere, infrastructure requires major upgrades.

In addition, alternative energy has the advantage of curbing exposure to volatile fossil fuel prices and vulnerability to imported oil and gas, for instance from dominant natural gas supplier Russia.

Scientists have said carbon emissions need to fall by between 80 and 95 percent by 2050 to contain global warming within the limit of 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit) that scientists say is necessary to avoid the worst effects of climate change.

EU 2050 energy road map sees big shift to renewables

Seek out hidden soil problems by Rebecca Audsley Scottish Agricultural College

Good soil structure can improve resilience to weather extremes, a feature predicted under climate change.

Often going unnoticed, poor soil structure can limit root development, reduce drainage and prevent effective uptake of nutrients which in turn could significantly reduce crop yields. Taking a look at what’s happening under your feet could confirm whether current practices are maintaining soil health or alert you to potential soil structural problems which could be leaving you out of pocket.

Digging a simple soil pit or even looking at a spadeful of soil should allow you to make some quick assessments of soil health, for example noting the smell and feel of the soil, current rooting depth and the presence or absence of earthworms. Look out especially for any hard or wet layers which may be restricting root growth. As outlined in the Farming for a Better Climate Soil Management Guide, suggestions to improve and promote a healthy soil structure include: Maintain soil organic matter Keep up soil organic matter levels by regularly including grass breaks and by adding organic matter where possible.

Poultry manure is very effective at improving soil structure and biochar may be worth consideration. The addition of organic matter also helps promote vital earthworm activity which improves soil drainage and aeration.

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Control compaction Around 25% of soils are made up of air spaces; compaction closes off these pores (and so releases more greenhouse gases).

Prevention is better than cure as the saying goes, so controlling compaction is the preferred option. Where possible, avoid running over wet soil; a freshly cultivated soil is often highly compactable especially when wet. Decreasing vehicle weight (reduced payload, lighter machinery) or reducing ground pressure (wide tyres, minimum tyre pressures, tracked vehicles) will all help to protect farm soils from compaction. For high value crops, consider controlled traffic where all or most vehicle wheels are confined to semi-permanent tracks between traffic-free zones for crop growth.

Grow crops with plenty of roots Roots divide up the soil, contribute to soil organic matter and provide the ‘glues’ which stick the soil together. Crops help to protect the soil from compaction, run off and erosion. Keep the soil covered with crops as much as possible.

Consider cover crops such as clover, vetch or rye to improve soil structure when the crop is otherwise absent. Taproot crops such as clover, comfrey, lucerne, oilseed rape and turnips may also improve drainage, particularly in clay soils. Soil structure benefits from a range of rooting types and this can be encouraged by adopting a ley-arable rotation.

For more information about assessing your soil, see www. sac.ac.uk/climatechange/ farmingforabetterclimate/ fiveactions/keyaction3/ 47

MACHINERY AXION 900 reaches new power level

The introduction of the new AXION 900 range, with power outputs from 320hp up to 410hp, marks Claas’ entry into a completely new market sector.

The AXION 900 is a totally new design which rounds-off the Claas range of high horsepower tractors.

In designing the new AXION 900 range, the Claas design team has taken into account all aspects of the work the tractor will be expected to do, combined with

expectations regarding running costs and the need to meet the latest emissions regulations, in order to achieve the Claas goal of making a significant contribution towards efficient, eco-friendly agriculture.

To enable this, Claas has established Claas Power Systems (CPS), which brings together experts from the different divisions within Claas to share information and ideas in order to develop products that best meet

customer expectations in terms of performance, reliability and

running cost, but also regulatory and environmental requirements.

Kawasaki unveils new small capacity ATV

Boasting a CVT transmission, sturdy front and rear racks plus a generous towing capacity, the new Kawasaki KVF300 joins the Kawasaki ATV range as the ideal entry level or small capacity vehicle.

Sure to attract interest among a whole host of working

users, the water-cooled, electric-start 271cc machine matches contemporary styling with many practical features including twin front disc brakes and a rear disc with a useful independent parking brake facility.

Rated at 22 horsepower, the

SOHC power plant has been engineered for characteristic Kawasaki durability whether in occasional or daily use.

In terms of practicality, rider footboards and deeply cleated foot-pegs come as standard, so too digital instruments that include speedometer, trip, fuel

and temperature gauges plus a clock and warning lights for neutral, reverse and high beam.

AGRICULTURAL ENGINEERS SCHOOLBRAE GARAGE, METHLICK, ELLON, AB41 7DS

ZETOR Proxima

DEALERS IN SCOTLAND THOMAS CAIRNIE DUMFRIES : 01387 710285

JMS EQUIPMENT TURRIFF : 01888 563188

JT CORMACK CAITHNESS : 01955 611498

MARRS OF METHLICK METHLICK : 01651 806910

THOMAS MURRAY DUNDONALD : 01563 850592

STUART COOK GIRVAN : 01465 715093

ALL NEW AND USED TRACTORS CAN BE SEEN ON OUR WEBSITE

info@dieci-telehandlers.co.uk

Tel: 01258 817997 Fax:01258 817908 www.dieci.com

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www.marrsofmethlick.com TELEPHONE: 01651 806910

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MACHINERY

Lely Welger RPC 245 Tornado

During the 2009 Agritechnica exhibition, Lely presented the Lely Welger RPC 445 Tornado as a Yellow Revolution. The technology that was incorporated in this machine made it the first genuine variable baler wrapper combination. Two years after that successful launch, Lely is presenting the next step: the Lely Welger RPC 245 Tornado.

Using the proven RP 245 Profi fixed chamber baler as the basis for this combination, Lely has managed to link the well-known baling qualities of this machine to the fastest wrapping system in the market place.

The set-up of both Tornado models is much the same. The baler is placed higher so the bale can be easily and quickly transferred to the wrapper table.

The ring wrapper on the new does not vary in wrapping height because the bales always have

the same size. In addition to the fast bale transfer, the machine offers the benefit of a fast starting wrapper ring - even before the tail gate is closed – which means a huge gain in output.

The Lely Welger RP 245 Profi baler provides the best silage

bales. The 2.25 m camless pickup has five tine bars to ensure a clean picking up. After that, the 800 mm rotor in conjunction with Xtracut 25-knife chopping system takes care of chopping and transport of the crop to the bale chamber via the Hydroflex

feed channel. The 18 steel rollers and mechanical locks on the bale chamber guarantee the highest bale density as well as optimum bale shape. The Profi baler has the heavy duty bearings ensuring reliability and durability in even the most testing conditions.

...More than just rollers!

Dal-Bo UK, Unit 12A Shepherds Close, Aylsham, Norfolk, NR11 6SZ Tel: 01263 732683 Fax: 01263 732632 e-mail: sa@dal-bo.dk

www.dal-bo.com

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MACHINERY Mattracks release new model 65 track conversions for small 4x4 SUVs and pickups

Mattracks Inc, the world’s leading suppliers of track conversions for ATVs, 4x4s and agricultural equipment have announced details of their latest product; Series 65 tracks for small 4x4 SUVs and pickup trucks.

Aimed at vehicles with gross vehicle weights of 2300kg the Series 65 tracks are 15” wide and incorporate Mattrack’s oscillating suspension which profiles the track to the terrain and provides maximum traction. The self-cleaning tread on the tracks is designed for year round use in all terrains

and the combination of wide tread and long track frames provide extremely low ground pressures. The tracks are rated for speeds up to 40 mph and are quick and simple to install and remove. The use of these tracks eliminates rutting of the terrain and since steering uses that of the carrier vehicle damage to flora and fauna is minimal.

Series 65 tracks are part of a range of track conversions manufactured by Mattracks up to 10 tonne capacity.

Supatracks are the UK and Ireland authorised dealers for

all Mattracks products as well as LiteFoot and Tatou 4S ATV track conversions and Best Grip

Keenan’s New Baleblend Feeding System

With a significant percentage of UK farmers opting to bale their silage, it follows that there is a big demand for bale processing systems which allow the silage to be incorporated into rations.

And with straw also a major ingredient of livestock rations, the same holds true for the processing of straw bales.

For a mixer wagon to have the facility to handle bales is clearly important and, while manufacturers of vertical auger

Ness Plant, Forfar Road, Brechin DD9 6RJ Tel 01356 626113 Fax 01356 625577 Unit D, Kinross Business Park Tel 01577 862543 Fax 01577 865183 Email: info@nessplant.co.uk Visit us online today at www.nessplant.co.uk

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tungsten carbide screw in studs.

Supatracks Limited, 0141 611 5010, www.supatracks.com

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tub-type machines are seemingly content to simply drop whole bales into the chamber and hope for the best, Keenan, with its horizontal paddle mixing system, takes a more pragmatic approach.

Keenan’s Baleblender has been developed and refined over a number of years and is now acknowledged as being a system which can quickly process all bale shapes and sizes, whether they be hay, straw or silage.

MACHINERY

KRONE LAUNCHES WORLDS FIRST NON-STOP BALER WRAPPER

Krone has launched Ultima, the world’s first fully automatic and non-stop baler wrapper that offers work rates up to 50% higher than other baler wrappers on the market. The unique innovation has earned the company a DLG Gold Medal at Agritechnica.

The Ultima results from a combination of Krone innovations in round baler technology including the semi-variable fixed chamber and the new Tractor Implement Management (TIM) system, which allows the baler to communicate with the tractor via ISOBUS. This means the operator can adapt tractor speed automatically to the load on the baler to prevent overload as well as ensuring that the baler can perform a sufficient number of

rotations to achieve maximum densities.

The crop collects inside the feed chamber while net wrapping is in progress. The

feed chamber has one feed belt at the top and one at the bottom.

The variable form of the feed chamber means it also serves as a pre-compression chamber.

Made in Britain

USER FRIENDLY HYDRAULICS give independent control of rear and cross conveyor from the tractor seat.

HEAVY DUTY BEATERS to shred the toughest of shear grab silage, fodder, beet, etc.

REVERSIBLE BODY OPTION to give discharge to either the front or rear on the 600 and 750 models

D600R Machine in Canonbie

14 MODELS ACROSS 3 RANGES PRICES START FROM UNDER

ÂŁ11,000

For your nearest dealer contact us: Office Tel: 01482 868800 email: sales@fostersalescompany.co.uk website: www.fostersalescompany.co.uk

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Pre-compression chamber, semivariable baling chamber and tractor implement management system combine to provide swift working and high bale densities.

MACHINERY

MAXXUM Efficient Power 2012 - the economical allrounder from Case IH

The new Case IH Maxxum EP series is also being premiered at Hanover, with the 2012 range featuring six new models that produce between 143 and 176hp from four- or sixcylinder engines with electronic common rail fuel injection systems.

The new Maxxum series is equipped with several technical innovations, including the Case IH EfficientPower system. At the heart of this system are the SCR exhaust-gas-cleaning and performance-optimised engines that offer reduced emissions and lower fuel consumption.

New Maxxum models also benefit from the Multicontroller operator console, which allows all of the tractor’s functions to be controlled from the righthand armrest. Consequently, the Maxxum operating concept now mirrors that of larger Case IH tractors, such as the Puma and Magnum, providing the same high level of operator comfort.

In a further enhancement, an electro-hydraulic joystick can be added to the Multicontroller console, allowing convenient control of a front loader, where fitted.

Grimme launches compact four row tractor mounted potato planter

Grimme has launched a new compact 4-row potato planter called the GL 420 Exacta for growers looking to combine cultivating and planting in the same pass. As an option the Grimme RT300 rotary tiller or

Amazone power harrow can be fitted to the machine.

The two tonne bunker is positioned directly above the cultivator to help keep the working elements compact and within good visibility of the

operator from the cab. During transport the planter is carried on the tractor three point linkage. A minimum of 140hp is required to pull the GL420 Exacta.

Accurate planting is maintained by hydraulically driven planting elements that

work in the forward direction and are constantly filled from sensor controlled filling elevators.

Optional extras include a shaping board or cage roller as well as from the carrier roller in front of the cultivator.

WILKS BROTHERS Main dealers in Perthshire for DEUTZ FAHR Tractors

Secure the best deals before the end of the year*

FARMING SCOTLAND MAGAZINE

*(Friday 9th December)

NEXT ISSUE 3rd JANUARY 2012 INCLUDES TRACTORS 2012 SPREADERS • TYRES LAMBING plus 2012 SHOW GUIDE WALL POSTER

Sales • Service • Parts Repairs for a wide range of Agricultural Machinery Murthly, Perthshire, PH1 4HG Tel: 01738 710381 Fax: 01738 710581

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53

PEOPLE ON THE MOV

SCOTT WALKER Scott Walker is new Chief Executive of NFU Scotland.

Scott has been part of the NFU Scotland staff body for 17 years, working at Head Office and in the regions in a number of positions including Commodity Director, Regional Policy Team Manager and most recently as Policy Director.

RICHARD PERCY Richard Percy has been elected to the role of Chairman from January 2012.

Mr Percy joined the NFU Mutual Board in 2003 and became Vice Chairman in 2008. He previously held a number of roles at the National Farmers Union (NFU), most recently as a Member of the NFU Council and also as an NFU County Chairman.

TREVOR TYRELL Claas UK Limited is pleased to announce the appointment of Trevor Tyrrell as its new Chief Executive Officer for UK and Ireland.

Trevor is 44 and is married to Crinna, has two children and lives in Suffolk. He has been with Claas since graduating from Silsoe College in 1989 and has held various senior roles, most recently Regional Director for UK, Ireland, Benelux and Baltics, as well as serving as a Director of Claas UK.

RICHARD HEYWOOD Polaris has appointed Richard Heywood as Northern ORV District Sales Manager.

Glasgow based, Richard brings a wealth of experience from his sixteen years in the groundcare machinery industry covering a similar geographic territory from Scotland through the North of England. Richard says he is very excited by the prospect of working for Polaris and is looking forward to the challenge of building on the success gained in his previous role.

54

Page Turner’s

BOOK REVIEW The Last Laird of Coll

By Mairi Hedderwick

The name Mairi Hedderwick is best known in connection with either her charming books for children featuring feisty Katie Morag or the mischievous toddler Peedie Peebles, or the delicate and evocative watercolours of the Scottish islands and highlands she executes as an accomplished artist. Her love for the island of Coll – her home for many years – and its people has woven itself into all of her work. But, like many remote places, the beauty of the island sometimes masks how hard life there can be. Mairi herself raised her family for several years in a house with no electricity or running water and even now visitors can be stranded for days if the weather turns against the ferries.

Someone who knows more than most just how hard life can be there is Kenneth Stewart, the last Laird of Coll.

A friend of Mairi’s since her first visit to the island more than fifty years ago, Kenneth inherited a debt-ridden estate and spent his life trying to rebuild a livelihood from it through farming.

Against incredible odds he began breeding rare cattle, sheep and geese, establishing

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himself on Coll and then farming laterally near Peebles, making the ‘Breachacha’ prefix well known with rare and minority breeds enthusiasts.

His work and enthusiasm was instrumental in the formation of the Rare Breeds Survival Trust in the early 1970s, and ensured that when the last animals were sold in 2004 at the Borderway Mart in Carlisle, the turnout was large and the prices paid high.

Not all Stewart’s plans were as successful, though – he tried growing flower bulbs – but he was determined to try almost anything to make Coll and its people profitable once more. Mairi Hedderwick tells his remarkable story – in her and Kenneth’s own words – and the story of Coll and its people in a wonderful little book filled with love for one of the loveliest yet one of the wildest Scottish islands.

The Last Laird of Coll by Mairi Hedderwick Birlinn 978 178027 0 197 £6.99 pbk Order online at www.birlinn. co.uk or call 0845 370 0067 or order by phone. You can also follow Birlinn on Facebook and Twitter.