Farming Scotland Magazine (Jan-February 2012)

FREE 2012 SHOW GUIDE WALLPOSTER INSIDE £1.95

Current to the end of FEBRUARY 2012

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TRACTORS FOR 2012 MUCK SPREADERS • AGRICULTURAL TYRES plus FLAVOUR OF SCOTLAND with SCOTLAND’S SPECIALITY FOOD SHOW and all the news on ARABLE • DAIRY • POTATOES • SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY RENEWABLE ENERGY • LIVESTOCK • GADGETS • FINANCE FUTURE FARMER • MACHINERY • BOOK REVIEW

2012…Bring it on!

Spring is not that far away! Plans are being made right now for the new season and I have lots of aims for this coming year.

My HOMEGROWN page will return to the magazine in March when I begin my first full year of planting, growing and hopefully eating from my small back garden.

I have been totally delighted with the excellent response and encouragement from readers of the magazine, so I am looking at more and new ways to increase the distribution of the magazine throughout 2012, with more store locations and new companies taking on the title. This is a long game, but will be well worth the work.

Events too - I hope to have Farming Scotland Magazine attending one or two events during this year. It will good to get out there and meet people from all parts of our farming community.

I also hope to create mutually beneficial ‘partnerships’ with a wide range of organisations which will also help to promote and expand the magazine’s readership. Technology will also play a big part in the increasing promotion of this magazine… .”getting out there” is what 2012 will be all about for me and the magazine.

So, here we are at the beginning of another year.

Plans and ambitions have been arranged, now let us all make “it happen” in 2012.

Athole

February 2012 Main Features

CONTENTS

publisher TALK

Tractors for 2012 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-17 Muck Spreaders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28-32 Tyres . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21-23 Flavour of Scotland

Scotland’s Speciality Food Show . . . . . 9 Regular Columns

Scottish Government . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

NFU of Scotland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Crofting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Farming for a better Climate . . . . . . . 25

The Vet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Finance Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 People on the Move . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Book Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 News Section

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 Email: barry@farmingscotlandmagazine.com 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

Arable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7 Dairy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Potatoes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-19 Science & Technology . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Renewable Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . 24-25 Livestock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33-37 Gadgets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Finance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39-41 Future Farmer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Machinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43-50

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ARABLE

WAKE UP CALL FOR WORLD AGRICULTURE FROM FAO

Alyn Smith MEP, Scottish full member of the European Parliament’s Agriculture and Rural Development Committee, has welcomed the publication of new research by the Food and Agriculture Organisation, “The State of the World’s Land and Water Resources for Food and Agriculture”, as a timely warning about the scale of the challenge faced by world farmers in the battle to ensure food security for a growing global population in an era of environmental constraints.

The report, part of a major research project by the UN’s food security body, warns that increasing land degradation, depletion of water resources and a loss of biodiversity are putting food production systems around the world at risk.

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While it is well known that crop yields are not increasing at the rates of previous decades, the report reveals that 25% of the world’s land resources can be classified as “highly degraded”, with another 8% as “modestly degraded”, through water and wind erosion, the loss of organic matter, salinisation, and nutrient loss - the figures include all land types, not just farmland. Furthermore, 40% of the world’s degraded lands are to be found in areas with high poverty rates. Aquifers are being depleted, and water sources degraded through reduced inflows and high nutrient loading, with the greatest water scarcity coming in regions with high population densities like Central Asia.

The report calls for the comprehensive adoption of sustainable land management

techniques, such as improving the efficiency of water management systems through better irrigation and training; innovative farming systems like integrated croplivestock systems and agroforestry; increasing investment in agricultural development; and improving land tenure and access to resources in the developing world.

Alyn said: “With the twin challenges of feeding a rising world population, and dealing with the inevitable environmental constraints of increasing climate change, I’ve been arguing for some time that business as usual is no longer going to cut it, so I’m pleased that the research the FAO have done has borne this out”.

The unique nozzle design, invented and developed by Syngenta application specialists, generates extra energy and velocity, to achieve more effective spray penetration in dense carrot canopies. Its use has been widely acknowledged as a significant advance in improving disease control in carrots and other vegetable crops.

At the presentation of the award, Syngenta Vegetable Field Technical Manager, Ian Holmes, reported new application trials in carrot crops over the past season have further reinforced the performance of the nozzles, with the 08 size Vegetable Nozzle the most consistent performer at all levels in delivering spray to the top, mid and bottom layers of the canopy.

“With conventional flat fan nozzle technology the only way to increase spray deposition in the all-important lower parts of the canopy is to increase

water volume and nozzle size – with knock on effects of slower operation and the risk of greater run off with large drops and over-wet leaves,” said Mr Holmes. “Growers can now achieve better spray coverage and retention in the mid and lower canopy from the high energy of the Vegetable Nozzle, along with comparatively lower water volumes for greater sprayer output per day.”

Vegetable Nozzles also provide outstanding drift reduction, compared to equivalent flat fan nozzles, he added.

Mr Holmes advises that more effective targeting of sprays into the crop canopy will achieve the best performance from Amistar Top programmes for Sclerotinia and Alternaria control. “With the new advances in application technique we can now time sprays more effectively to when the risk of disease is highest and offer better protection of crowns for higher yields and quality root production”.

Syngenta Vegetable Nozzle wins BCGA Innovation Award

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ARABLE

World Grain Production Down, But Recovering

World grain production fell, exacerbating a global food situation already plagued by rising prices, according to new research published by the Worldwatch Institute for its Vital Signs Online publication.

Despite record rice and maize yields around the world, global wheat production dropped substantially enough to bring total grain output to just below 2008 levels.

Maize, wheat, and rice provide nearly two-thirds of the global human diet and serve as

critical inputs for both animal feed and industrial products.

The significance of these crops guarantees that a decline in production will produce ripple effects throughout the global economy, particularly as increased food prices continue to take a toll on the world’s neediest populations. Overall, rice and wheat production have tripled since the 1960s, and maize production has quadrupled, despite global acreage of these crops increasing by only 35 percent.

European seed treatment scheme undergoes UK testing

A pilot assurance scheme for the seed treatment industry, the European Seed Treatment Assurance scheme (ESTA), has been unveiled in the UK. The move comes as the seed industry seeks to preserve essential plant protection products, protect international trade and ensure ongoing investment.

ESTA was devised by the European Seed Association (ESA) in response to the EU Directive (2010/21) which required insecticide seed treatments to ’only be performed in professional seed treatment facilities.’ The Directive results from incidences of bee deaths in Germany, Austria and France, particularly associated with treated maize seed.

In the UK, the ESTA scheme will be operated as part of the Trade Assurance Scheme for Combinable Crops (TASCC), which many seed companies already participate in.

“Essentially, the scheme looks to minimise risk,” explained AIC Board Member

James Wallace, speaking at the launch. “There is a need to counter the siren voices of single issue pressure groups calling for certain products to be banned.

Therefore, the seed trade needs to demonstrate that it is operating to high professional standards, and that there is no need for further regulation of either Certified or farm-saved seed.

“This needs to be a European-wide scheme as seed treatment products are subject to EU regulations. Any serious incident in an individual member state could again lead to product withdrawal. In addition, there is a need to ensure free movement of treated seed across the Community unhampered by individual Member state legislation.

“Above all, the scheme aims to protect future use of seed treatments and stimulate further investment in these products that are so vital in the early stages of a crop’s growth.”

Seed treatment manufacturers have welcomed the scheme.

SUPPORTING SCOTTISH PRODUCE AND QUALITY SCOTTISH FOOD

By Richard Lochhead Rural Affairs and Environment Secretary The Scottish Government As we enter the New Year, a new season of Scottish food and drink is upon us and following some of the excesses of the festive season, now is the perfect time to consider eating fresh and in season.

From quality Scotch beef and venison to tasty leeks, parsnip and broccoli, we are fortunate to have such an abundant and plentiful natural larder available here in Scotland.

Eating food that’s in season means enjoying food at its peak in terms of flavour. It is relatively easy to incorporate tasty and seasonal produce into everyday lives, helping to both support local food producers and enjoy a varied and healthy menu.

Like many Scots I recently celebrated Burn’s Night, the culmination of Scotland’s Winter Festival programme. This provided an ideal opportunity to enjoy a traditional Scottish supper with family and friends to celebrate Scotland’s rich heritage of food and drink.

I was also pleased to see the Speciality Food

Show come to Scotland, providing a showcase for up-and-coming innovative and creative producers to promote their wares to a wider audience of buyers. I hope this proved a successful opportunity for fresh talent to get into the marketplace.

Scotland is well known internationally as a land of food and drink with rich natural resources. We are working hard to foster our world-class reputation for quality food and drink.

It is thanks to our farmers and food producers that we can enjoy such a wide selection of fresh and seasonal produce. Food production is a vital part of our farming community and contributes significantly to the economy overall.

This is why as the negotiations on Common Agricultural Policy reform continue, I will be lobbying hard to ensure a fair deal for Scottish farmers to enable them to be able to continue sustainable and productive farming, ensuring a continued high level of food supply in Scotland.

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ARABLE

Putting the ‘Ale’ in Caledonia...

Scotland’s leading brewer Tennent Caledonian celebrating an exciting new phase in its history with the launch of ‘Caledonia Best’ – a distinctive beer that is rooted in a progressive new partnership with the nation’s barley farmers.

‘Caledonia Best’ was unveiled in Glasgow as the embodiment of this new focus on the grain at the heart of the glass, with the company’s brewers offering a first taste of the new pint to assembled guests.

The new beer has been created by bringing together the most experienced and the

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youngest master brewers into one team at Wellpark Brewery, combining centuries of brewing craft and expertise with bold new thinking around sourcing and sustainability in one high quality new pint.

The resulting beer is a refreshingly modern new pint that is perfectly balanced, sweet and smooth, with a malty, roast flavour and a pleasant hoppy bitterness.

Tapping into rising consumer demand in the ale market and Tennent Caledonian’s impressive and prolific ale heritage which dates back to

1556, the brewing team is championing a new commitment to its most important suppliers – Scotland’s barley farmers – with a commitment to 100 per cent use of Scottish barley for Caledonia Best to make a pint of distinction.

Caledonia Best is the first Tennent Caledonian brand to use 100 per cent Scottish barley, however the company has announced that it will roll this out across the full Tennent’s range in the years ahead.

The company hopes its ambitious plans will enliven the traditional ale category and

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provide drinkers with fresh, distinctive brands to choose from at the bar – whilst also responding to the growing interest in the provenance of food and drink choices.

They also hope that the dynamic new framework for the brewing and farming industries to work closely and productively together will reap benefits for both sides in the future – not just in creating high quality beers but in supporting and recognising the crucial input of the many Scottish farmers who are proud to grow barley for Scotland’s pre-eminent and best known brewer.

New chlorpyrifos requirements

New requirements for all 2012 applications of chlorpyrifos insecticides have been announced by a consortium of the three major approval holders of UK products; Dow AgroSciences, Makhteshim Agan and Headland Agrochemicals. The changes form part of the new stewardship initiative; ’Chlorpyrifos: Say NO to DRIFT’.

Making LERAP three star rated “low drift” nozzles, and an extended 20 metre nospray buffer zone adjacent to watercourses a requirement for all chlorpyrifos applications from January 2012, the new guidelines are in response to regulatory pressure threatening the availability of the insecticide. ’It’s simply a case of no drift or no chlorpyrifos,’ said Dow’s ecotoxicologist Steve Norman speaking at the Peterborough launch.

Explaining the regulatory backdrop to the issue he said that a new ’risk assessment’ for chlorpyrifos, under its routine EU/UK review, means that the existing label no-spray buffer zones adjacent to watercourses are no longer considered sufficient protection for aquatic organisms by the Chemicals Regulations Directorate (CRD). ’The criteria cannot be met by introducing larger buffer zones alone, meaning that low drift nozzles are now a necessity.”

He added that although chlorpyrifos products currently remain available as the CRD

final decision is pending, the industry must adopt the new guidelines to give CRD the confidence to renew the registrations. ’The aim of the initiative is to achieve 100% uptake of low drift nozzles and extended buffer zones for all 2012 applications” and beyond. ’We need every grower, spray operator and adviser to get behind the initiative, he urged.

With chlorpyrifos applications staggered throughout the calendar year, Dick Neale, Technical Manager at Hutchinsons said the versatility of the insecticide means that the timings of use and the breadth of the cropping and pest control spectrum is one of the largest, with cereals, grassland, field vegetables and fruit all implicated. ’It also means that the new guidelines will need to be employed for January wheat bulb fly applications onwards.

Thereafter for winter wheat, the next key timing is orange wheat blossom midge control preflowering in June; although first cereal crops after grass typically require spring as well as autumn chlorpyrifos treatment to tackle the carryover of leather jackets, and for frit fly control.

He added that in the absence of chlorpyrifos, lost yield and quality implications would be significant, particularly for milling wheat that attracts a significant price premium, currently around’ ’16-20/t. ’The impact is particularly severe for the areas of the UK dominated by arable production.”

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NFUS

ARABLE

EGG ON EURO FACES

By Bob Carruth, Communications Director for NFU Scotland As we enter 2012, spare a thought for the nation’s egg producers – a genuine success story that risks being significantly undermined by EU ineptitude in the coming year.

In Scotland we have some of the most innovative egg producers in the UK – if not Europe. We have producers, both large and small, who have reacted to consumer demands on the size, number and quality of eggs they want and we have seen a significant shift into alternative production systems – barn, free range, organic – to suit all demands.

Crucially, our producers are set to comply with EU regulations that, by the end of 2011, bring to an end the use of conventional battery cages but permit new, improved enriched cage systems instead.

Scotland and the UK – at considerable cost to producers - are likely to have been fully compliant by the end of 2011.

However, 13 other Member States – Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Netherlands, Latvia, Malta, Poland, Portugal, Romania & Spain have continued to house 50 million hens in conventional un-enriched cages after the deadline.

The EU response to support compliant nations has been nothing short of pathetic. This has been a regulation that Member States have had almost a decade to put into force yet we find ourselves in the totally unacceptable position of having our own producers undermined by illegal production from within Europe.

Europe has promised audits, inspections and fines – but that all takes time. Even the UK government has stopped short of putting in force a unilateral ban on illegal eggs entering the country but will downgrade such eggs to processing status.

That is still not good enough.

UK takes action as ban on battery cages looms: The UK Ministry for the Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has confirmed that from the beginning of next year, the UK Animal Health & Veterinary Laboratories Agency (AHVLA) will use ultraviolet rays to identify batches of “illegal eggs”. If wire-markings from the battery cage are detected on the eggshell, these eggs would not be allowed to be sold as ‘Class A’ eggs, but treated as ‘Class B’ for processing, DEFRA states.

In a statement* issued recently, UK Agriculture Minister Jim Paice confirmed that there was a “voluntary consensus” between the domestic egg industry, processors, food manufacturers, the food service sector & retailers not to sell or use battery farmed eggs.

Keen to protect UK consumers & the domestic egg industry, which has spent £400 million converting to the higher welfare cages, Paice added that “it would be unthinkable if countries continuing to house hens in poor conditions were to profit from flouting the law”?

The Commission is against any unilateral measure by a Member State to limit the trade in eggs & egg products, while any cross-border incidents that may emerge need to be dealt with bilaterally, EU sources state.

DAIRY

The Prince’s Rural Action Programme Supports Dairy Sector in Scotland

A new initiative to support the British dairy sector has been launched by The Prince’s Rural Action Programme, a Business in the Community (BITC) campaign. The project aims to support 100 farms with the objective of reducing the decline in the number of dairy farms by improving their profitability.

A number of these farms are located near to Castle Douglas in Scotland.

The first stage of the project focuses on a pilot scheme to deliver a package of business support and advice to selected farmers through a series of practical workshops to help improve their profitability and quality of life. The workshops will be run by leading experts in the dairy sector.

Mark Allen, Chairman, said, “The initiative is being driven by The Prince of Wales, for whom

the future of dairying in the UK has been a long held concern.

With his help I am delighted to say that we have managed to get unanimous support across the dairy sector to support our proposed project work.”

Eligible participants have been selected from farms within a 30 mile radius of Castle Douglas, Narberth, Ellesmere, Buxton and Langport. The farms have between 40-200 cows; are

on a standard milk contract (ie. not retailer aligned); and most importantly, do not normally have access to this kind of support. Dairying must be the main commercial occupation of the farm business.

Mark continued by stressing: “The whole dairy sector is working collaboratively on this project. Our hope is that by getting the sector to work collaboratively on a practical pilot initiative such as this, we will lay the foundations for further action to address other challenges faced by the dairy supply chain.”

DAIRY FARMERS FAVOUR D-VALUE OVER YIELD IN QUEST FOR QUALITY GRASS

D-value is now ranked higher than dry matter yield by UK dairy farmers when they are selecting grass varieties for reseeding, according to a British Seed Houses farmer survey reported at the company’s recent herbage training conference for agricultural merchants staged at IBERS Aberystwyth University.

This finding reflects changes in priorities over the last ten years as the merits of producing more milk from grass have become better understood and the choice of higher quality ryegrass varieties has increased, says the company’s agricultural director Paul Billings.

The survey is derived from interviews with over 250 dairy farmers attending the main agricultural technical events when they were asked to rank seven criteria in order of importance.

In the most recent set of results, D-value was ranked second only to persistence by dairy farmers, with total yield now only considered more important than disease resistance. Priorities for beef and

sheep farmers differed from those of dairy farmers, with total yield still more important than D-value to this audience.

“We know from independent research that each unit of D-value equates to between 0.25 and 0.4 litres/cow/day in extra production,” explains Paul Billings, “and it would appear that dairy farmers are now factoring this in to their grass variety selection.

“Since the emergence of the Aber High Sugar Grasses the difference between the highest and lowest even amongst officially recommended varieties has increased significantly. For example, amongst intermediate

heading diploid perennial ryegrasses alone on the current Recommended Lists for England and Wales, the difference in midsummer D-value between the highest and the lowest is over 4 D-value points. This equates to at least 1.0 litre/cow/day in production terms, which is a massive uplift if efficiency and profitability.

“Above all else, this information highlights how vitally important the independent Recommended Lists are to livestock farmers throughout the UK, and it is encouraging to see that more farmers are appreciating the value of the data at their disposal.”

It also features improved takeoff cylinders and new vacuum shut-off valves for faster teat cup attachment and removal. The new arm also provides improved ergonomics, giving a greater range of reach for improved teat cup alignment, especially for

cows with smaller and irregularly shaped udders. The new design also provides better protection to the robot’s internal components for greater reliability and longevity.

To celebrate the launch of the new model, prices remain unchanged for 2012.

New Fullwood Merlin robot offers faster teat cup attachment and reduced service intervals The latest generation of the Fullwood Merlin automated milking system, which features a redesigned arm for improved teat cup attachment, has today been launched by Fullwood Limited.

The new model is the fourth version of the Fullwood Merlin, and offers faster teat cup attachment and removal as well as improved cow comfort during the milking process. The new design also extends the service interval, as well as making the machine easier 8

and cheaper to maintain and keep clean.

“The new Fullwood Merlin features a completely redesigned teat cup attachment arm which is lighter and more streamlined in design,” explains David O’Hare, Chief Executive of Fullwood Limited.

“The new arm retains Fullwood’s unique flat-plane design for fast teat cup attachment, but has been made lighter to create less wear on the main pivot points.

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FLAVOUR OF SCOTLAND

SPECIALISING IN SCOTLAND’S FINEST FAIR Scotland is renowned worldwide for its fine food and drinks, with more than its share of artisan producers using quality, local ingredients to produce delicious products. Where better to get a flavour of these products than at Scotland’s Speciality Food Show (SSFS) which is on at the SECC in Glasgow from 22-24 January.

As the only dedicated fine food trade show in Scotland, it is the perfect opportunity for farm shops and food retailers to source new products and to meet up with existing suppliers.

SSFS will have about 120 exhibitors and is run in conjunction with Scotland’s Trade Show, which attracts over 4000 buyers, so there is a great

crossover between food and gift products. Over 75% of the stands have now been booked which is better than previous years to date.

With an excellent line-up of exhibitors the 2012 Show will showcase unique products, many of which are not available in supermarkets. Exhibitors showing for the first time include Chocolati, Campbells Fudge from Biggar, Yum Yum Tree Fudge, Gran Stead’s Ginger with its award-winning beverages, Compass Spirits and The Fine Cheese Company.

More established exhibitors include Summer Harvest rapeseed oils and dressings, Cream o’Galloway ice cream, The Fudge Kitchen, Little Doone

Handmade in Scotland

balsamic dressings, Soods Foods, Edinburgh Tea & Coffee and Walkers Shortbread. Many of these will be launching new products and their new 2012 range at the Show.

January is an excellent time for the Show as food retailers look at what to stock for the

A vast range of produce on show www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

coming year. The added benefit of being run in conjunction with Scotland’s Trade Fair is that many retailers are looking for nonperishable goods which have a longer shelf life, such as tableware, kitchen goods and gifts.

In the centre of the Show will be a seminar theatre where selected exhibitors can pitch their products to a team of expert retailers in a ‘Dragon’s Den’ style format which is both entertaining and gives the producers feedback on their products. In addition, experts will also give seminars on aspects of food retailing and presentation.

Scotland’s Speciality Food Show director, Mark Saunders said: “As the only fine food trade Show in Scotland we offer exhibitors a unique showcase for their products and provide retailers and buyers with a good variety of fine food and drinks which they might otherwise never learn about. With the crossover of the food show and the trade gift show we expect to have over 5000 visitors between the two Shows.”

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TRACTORS

TRACTORS FOR 2012 A brief look into the latest tractor models and technology Available for the year ahead Case Maxxum EP – powerful, versatile and cost-effective The new Case IH Maxxum EfficientPower series, comprises six new four-and six-cylinder 110-140 hp tractors, made its European show debut at Agritechnica 2011.

The Maxxum EfficientPower range replaces the previous Maxxum line-up, which became one of the most successful all-round tractor series in Europe, appreciated by farmers for its reliability and suitability for a wide range of applications. It has now been significantly upgraded

Case Maxxum EP

to create the new Maxxum EP range, characterised by the latest engine technology, efficient exhaust gas cleaning system and improved operation.

Maxxum EP tractors set new cost-effectiveness and efficiency standards, with bestin-class cab size, comfort and technical highlights.

The new Maxxum models are available in two series that are differentiated mainly by their control concepts.

The upper range is the Maxxum Multicontroller EP line, featuring the innovative Multicontroller operating system as standard.

D-K-R

AGRICULTURAL SERVICES LTD. Main Dealers for JOHN DEERE Tractors NEW HOLLAND:

The clean energy leader Tier4 Compliant Engine

D-K-R AGRICULTURAL SERVICES LTD. Westfield, Coulter, Biggar, Lanarkshire ML12 6HN Tel. 01899 220897 • FAX. 01899 221413 E-Mail: dkrcoulter@hotmail-com 10

Forfar Perth Laurencekirk Dundonald Doune

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

www.agricar.co.uk

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TRACTORS

Massey Ferguson 7620 Deutz Fahr TTV 7250

Massey Ferguson high power MF 7600 Series With the launch of the completely new MF 7600 Series, Massey Ferguson is introducing four high power, lightweight and versatile tractors. These combine wellproven, award-winning technology with the latest fuel efficient engines along with additional operator comfort and control.

The MF 7600 Series can be specified with either the Dyna-6 Eco, semi-powershift or Dyna-VT continuously variable transmission. All are equipped with the latest AGCO SISU POWER eÂł engines with Generation 2 Selective Catalytic Reduction. These provide maximum powers of 185hp to 235hp, as well as Power Management.

A completely redesigned cab for the MF 7600 increases

visibility and provides more interior space with extra comfort. Users can choose from three specification levels, with new control options, to match their requirements.

Deutz-Fahr Agrotron 7230 and 7250 TTV tractors Deutz-Fahr has introduced two new high-power tractors with continuously variable transmissions and new engines capable of producing up to 260 hp. Their introduction coincides with the implication in 2011 of the TIER 4i emissions standards for engines with power outputs over 130 kW. With a maximum torque of over 1000 Nm (depending on the model), the new Deutz TCD 4-valve turbodiesel 6.1 L6 TIER 4i engines offer sufficient power for even the most demanding tasks. The engines

are equipped for AdBlue exhaust treatment affording a significant reduction in harmful emissions. In the larger engine, the pressure in the AdBlue injection system has been increased from the previous level of 1600 bar to 2000 bar.

This makes for considerable improvements in power delivery and fuel consumption

and, when combined with the new turbochargers, leads to optimal engine response and efficiency.

New Holland New Tier 4A compliant T6 combines ECOBlue productivity and efficiency The New Holland T6 range of tractors features ECOBlue™

W & A Geddes Ltd Main Dealers for Tractors

W & A Geddes Ltd

New Holland T6

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 www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

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TRACTORS

Zetor Forterra 135

Claas Axion 900

SCR technology for Tier 4A compliance. The range comprises seven models: T6.120, T6.140, T6.150, T6.155, T6.160, T6.165 and T6.175 which produce between 119 – 175hp. The use of Engine Power Management ensures operations have the power on tap to complete all agricultural

tasks with ease. The T6 range will become the tractor of choice for future-focused mixed farmers, as well as contractors and specialist agribusinesses . New Holland is unique in this segment in offering a six cylinder engine with 115 rated horsepower, further extending the choice for arable farmers. Pierre Lahutte, Head of

J & W Tait Ltd Agricultural Merchants Main Dealers for

CASE IH Tractors

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

Tel: 01856 873003 Fax: 01856 876133 www.taitorkney.co.uk 12

Tractor Product Management, explains, “The ECOBlue™ SCR technology on the popular T6 range contributes to improving the productivity and profitability of our customers. Moreover, we have given every farmer and contractor the opportunity to custom specify their tractor to suit their own, individual needs.”

A big lift for Zetor Proxima Zetor Proxima has been given a lift in more ways than one.

Most noticeable is the change in model designation numbers across the range, including Proxima Power and Plus. These changes reflect the increase in horsepower from the latest generation of engines designed to meet current emission standards. For example, the Proxima 95 which is rated at 99hp now becomes the Proxima 100. There is a similar adjustment to all models.

However, the lift doesn’t stop there. The latest Proximas have more powerful hydraulics with externally mounted rams that provide 4200kg of lift and top link sensing as standard.

This is an increase of 25% on the previous system.

In the cab, more precise control is available with changes to the design and layout of the hydraulic controls which makes them easy and intuitive to use. There is an increase too in the number of double acting spool valves provided as standard.

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UK debut for Claas Axion 900 Making its UK debut the Claas Axion 900 range of tractors which have power outputs from 320hp up to 410hp.

A total of four Axion 900 models are available, the Axion 920, 930, 940 and 950, which are the first Claas tractors to benefit from the recently formed 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.

In order to meet the forthcoming Tier 4i emission regulations for engines of between 176 and 760hp, by not being committed to a specific engine manufacturer, in deciding whether to use EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) or SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) engine technology, Claas is free to consider which technology is best suited to current and future machines.

Valtra presents the N Series powered by SCR engines The top models in the N Series are the N163 Versu and Direct models, which are the most powerful four-cylinder tractors in the world. In addition, the new AGCO SISU POWER

TRACTORS

Valtra N Series

engine technology has allowed the front of the N Series to be fully redesigned to make it even more user-friendly.

AGCO e3 SCR engine technology reduces fuel consumption by approximately 5-10 percent. In addition, the particulate and nitrogen oxide emissions are reduced to a fraction when compared to

Landini Powermondial

previous technology. Tractor users also benefit from the fact that SCR technology reduces the need for engine cooling and keeps lubrication oil cleaner, thus extending engine life.

Valtra has years of experience with SCR technology. The Valtra S Series introduced in 2008 was the first agricultural tractor in the world to feature SCR technology.

Landini Powermondial tractor range The versatile Landini Powermondial has the perfect specification to appeal to livestock and arable farmers alike needing a lively 100hpclass power unit.

Three models are available, all powered by Perkins 1100-series engines: the

102hp and 110hp versions have mechanical fuel injection and both can be had with either Techno specification, which features a synchro shuttle transmission, or TOP spec with a power shuttle transmission and three powershift steps.

The higher specification package is standard on the Powermondial 120 introduced

FOR QUALITY NEW & USED TRACTORS...

Contact the Reekie Group Due in 2012 the new Fendt 700 series and the new Massey Ferguson 7600 series.

Contact your local branch for more details

Selection of Used Tractors Available

Fendt

MF6485/4wd, 07 Reg MF6465/4wd, 07Reg MF7480/4wd, 54 Reg Fendt 818/4wd, 05 Reg MF8450/4wd, 57 Reg MF6499/4wd, 04 Reg MF5460/4wd, 07 Reg c/w MF945 Loader

Cupar 01334 652445

Branches at Stirling Perth 01786 477530 01738 622471 or visit our website

www.reekie.co.uk 14

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TRACTORS

John Deere 6210R

in 2011. It has an electronicallymanaged common rail fuel injection system on its Perkins engine.

“The Dual Power system produces two distinct power curves,” explains Eamon Howden, Landini product specialist at distributor AgriArgo UK. “For draft work, such as ploughing and cultivating, the engine produces up to 112hp. But for pto and transport operations, which put less engine torque through the transmission, the fuelling system is remapped to generate up to 121hp.”

New John Deere 6R Series tractors offer more power, comfort and security Following the introduction in June 2011 of the new 6R Series large frame tractors, John Deere is now unveiling the complete 6R tractor range.

Nine models from 105 to 210hp (125 to 240hp with Intelligent Power Management/IPM) are now available.

Featuring the new John Deere tractor family styling, all 6R models offer new levels of power, performance and operator comfort, including improved suspension and cab visibility, more powerful hydraulics and increased lift capacities.

Models from the 6105R to 6130R are equipped with a Stage IIIB 4.5-litre fourcylinder PowerTech PVX engine

Challenger Field Python

rated from 105 to 130hp. IPM generates 20 additional hp (according to 97/68EC) for road and pto applications. The 6130R model is powered by a four-cylinder engine mounted on a six-cylinder frame. With its longer wheelbase, this tractor is designed for better performance.

Powerful Challenger ‘Field Python’ on the loose Challenger is celebrating 25 years on tracks with the launch of a limited edition version of its 583hp (max), MT865C. Branded as the ‘Field Python’, these tractors will come fully loaded with every available option, and at the AgriTechnica Show one exclusive tractor goes on display in special snake skin livery. This livery will be extended to an option on the large MT800C series for 2012 season.

“We picked the name ‘Python’ because it has many associations with the Challenger tracked tractor,” says Gaston Haesen, Product Support Specialist. “It’s powerful, elegant and moves quietly, economically and smoothly and leaves virtually no footprint. Moreover, it also sends out a warning for competitors to stay at a safe distance!”

The MT865C Field Python tractors are equipped with 36in (91.5cm) wide belts with Poly mid-wheels, debris deflectors, steerable three-point linkage,

five hydraulic spool-valves and 16 idler weights.

McCormick T-Max tractor range expands to five models from 74hp to 110hp Following a good response to the introduction of a single T-Max model to the McCormick

range earlier this year, distributor AgriArgo UK has decided to offer the complete line of 74hp to 110hp tractors in Great Britain.

“We introduced the 93hp T100-Max to fill a particular niche in our product range as an alternative to the more utilitarian C100-Max and the CX100 with

W & A Geddes Ltd Main Dealers for

Tractors

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

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15

TRACTORS

McCormick T-Max

Kubota M130X

its larger cab,” explains Ray Spinks, general manager and sales director. “Now that the CX range has been replaced by the higher-spec and more powerful X60 Series tractors, we feel there is a place for the complete T-Max line-up.”

There are 10 versions in all, with power outputs from

the familiar Perkins 1104D44 engine of 74hp, 83hp, 93hp, 102hp and 110hp.

Synchro Shuttle models come with the Speed Four Overdrive transmission, giving 24 speeds forward and 12 in reverse, using a mechanical high-low splitter.

Creep gears can be added to this 40kph transmission.

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

ZETOR Proxima

ALL NEW AND USED TRACTORS CAN BE SEEN ON OUR WEBSITE

www.marrsofmethlick.com TELEPHONE: 01651 806910 16

Kubota promotes affordability Kubota Tractor and Groundcare recently showcased their M130X and M9540 agricultural tractors, the L3200 mid-range tractor and the RTV900 allterrain utility vehicle.

The highlight was their M130X, which at 130hp, is

the largest in Kubota’s range.

Designed to offer a real alternative to both ‘expensive’ and ‘economy’ tractors, it features a four-cylinder engine, electronic fuelling and engine governing as well as Intelli-Shift 16 Speed transmission with eight-speed powershift and auto field/road modes. The

WILKS BROTHERS Main dealers in Perthshire for DEUTZ FAHR Tractors

The NEW Agrotron TTV Range

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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TRACTORS M130X can be fitted with the new LA2253 loader, which has a lifting capacity of 2.1 tons to a maximum height of 4.1m.

Also on display will be the 95hp M9540, part of the M40 Series range of agriculutural tractors, which won the Silver medal at the 2009 Royal Agricultural Society of England (RASE) Machinery Awards.

The M9540 offers users fantastic performance and efficiency thanks to high power to weight ratio and excellent manoeuvrability.

Fendt 700 Vario A compact high-horsepower tractor with numerous innovations and the highest ride comfort, perfectly tailored

to meet real-life requirements.

That is a brief description of the new 700 Vario series, with models ranging from 200 to 240 hp. This new representative of the Fendt Efficient Technology features the completely newly developed VisioPlus cab, including the award-winning Fendt Variotronic, together with leading edge engine technology, fuel-efficient SCR technology for exhaust after-treatment and further interesting details.

Fendt sets new standards with the roomy VisioPlus cab found in the 700 Vario series – it redefines spaciousness and visibility. The continuous front window that reaches up into the roof significantly improves visibility. With a total of 6.1 m²

Fendt 724 Vario

of glass and no B-pillar on the right side, the 700 Vario offers the best all-round visibility for all areas of application. This

provides exceptional working comfort, not only for front loader or in municipal work, but for all applications

DEALERS KEY (Participating Dealers in this feature) CASE AM Phillip www.amphillip.co.uk Forfar : 01307 474001 Huntly : 01466 799222 Fraserburgh : 01346 541351 Glenrothes : 01592 775511 Conon Bridge : 01349 866021 J&W Tait Ltd www.jandwtaitltd.co.uk Kirkwall, Orkney : 01856 873003 Rutherford Agricultural www.rutherford.co.uk Earlston : 01896 848404 Coldstream : 01890 840458 East Linton : 01620 860348 W & A Geddes Wick : 01955 602207 Brora : 01408 621220 CHALLANGER Ancroft Tractors www.ancroft-tractors.co.uk Berwick upon Tweed : 01289 331904 Kelso : 01573 225213 Macmerry : 01875 617323 CLAAS Sellars Agriculture Ltd www.sellar.co.uk

Oldmeldrum : 01651 782891 Newbridge : 0131 333 2970 John McNae Engineering www.mcnae.net Mauchline : 01292 541920 Rutherford Agricultural www.rutherford.co.uk Earlston : 01896 848404 Coldstream : 01890 840458 East Linton : 01620 860348 W & A Geddes Wick : 01955 602207 Brora : 01408 621220 DEUTZ FAHR Mearns Tractors www.mearnstractors.com Laurencekirk : 01561 377762 Wilks Brothers Murthly : 01738 710381 FENDT Ancroft Tractors www.ancroft-tractors.co.uk Berwick upon Tweed : 01289 331904 Kelso : 01573 225213 Macmerry : 01875 617323 Reekie Group www.reekie.co.uk

Stirling : 01786 477530 Perth : 01738 622471 Cupar : 01334 652445

Stenness : 01856 851000

LANDINI DHW Tractors International www.dhwtractors.com Carnwath : 01555 840513

Hamilton Tractors www.hamilton-tractors.com Carnwath : 01555 840513

George Colliar Ltd Kinross : 01577 863173

NEW HOLLAND Agricar www.agricar.co.uk Forfar : 01307 462281 Perth : 01738 583249 Laurencekirk : 01561 378888 Dundonald : 01563 851900 Doune : 01786 842921

Reekie Group www.reekie.co.uk JOHN DEERE Stirling : 01786 477530 DKR Agricultural Services Perth : 01738 622471 Cupar : 01334 652445 www.jd-dealer.co.uk/dkagri Biggar : 01899 220897 McCORMICK MLM Engineering Fraser C Robb www.mlmengineering.co.uk www.frasercrobb.co.uk Orphir : 01856 811282 Drymen : 01360 660688

MASSEY FERGUSON Ancroft Tractors www.ancroft-tractors.co.uk Berwick upon Tweed : 01289 331904 Kelso : 01573 225213 Macmerry : 01875 617323 Highland Tractors www.highlandtractors.co.uk Conon Bridge : 01349 861688 Linklater Engineering www.linklaterengineering.co.uk

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Bryson tractors www.brysontractors.co.uk Lanark : 01555 660888 ZETOR Marrs of Methlick www.marrsofmethlick.com Ellon : 01651 806910 17

POTATOES

Niagri Assigns Scottish Dealership

Niagri Engineering Ltd has recently appointed a new dealer in Scotland for their Dewulf harvesting range with Alan Mackay Machinery Limited.

Niagri Engineering are a family based company with a wealth of knowledge of the farming industry. The company was established in 1997 however, Director, Alan Nicholson has been in the business for over 30 years. Niagri specialises in the manufacture of ‘one off’ purpose built machinery for the vegetable industry. All their machinery is designed & manufactured at their base in Suffolk.

Niagri Engineering Ltd were appointed the Dewulf dealership for the UK & Ireland in 2000. Since then they have been successful in completing sales of almost 50 self propelled harvesters across the UK & Ireland. Now their customer base

18

is increasing they have appointed Alan Mackay Machinery Ltd to be their Scottish dealer. They will be providing new and used

Dewulf machinery to Scottish growers, and are also able to offer after sales service & parts requirements.

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Niagri’s relationship with Mackay’s started with a harvesting demonstration in Scotland to show the versatility

POTATOES of the Dewulf harvesters.

Scottish growers were struggling in October to get their crop out of the ground. Some were hesitant about letting the Dewulf into the field, however they were proved wrong. Alan Nicholson tells us “The conditions were extremely difficult, however the Dewulf was able to continue where others couldn’t & it cleaned the product up well, considering the conditions”.

Alan Mackay machinery was established in 2004 and

are known for their Massey Ferguson dealership on the outskirts of Forfar. They have a wealth of knowledge about agricultural machinery, and are looking forward to expanding their range with the Dewulf harvesting equipment.

‘I’m sure our Scottish growers will be pleased with the new partnership, and we look forward to introducing the services Alan Mackay’s can offer to our customers’ comments Alan Nicholson.

Soil pest and disease multiplies potato losses

The combined effects of soil borne pests and diseases in the same field could be hitting potato yields and quality far more significantly than the sum of the issues alone, according to Syngenta Potato Field Technical Specialist, Roger Blyth. Speaking at British Potato 2011, he reported new trials have highlighted that where Rhizoctonia infection and nematodes exist in the same soil, the interaction can lead to extremely heavy losses.

He believes that the concentration of potato production into the hands of fewer farmers has increased the pressure on available land.

Compounded by the escalating cost of fuel and labour, many are being forced to grow potatoes more frequently in the rotation, and that’s creating higher incidences of soil pests and diseases.

This year Mr Blyth has worked with Yorkshire-based

farmer owned company, Whole Crop Marketing and independent specialist potato agronomist, John Sarup of SPUD Agronomy and Consultancy, to trial the use of Amistar and Nemathorin, with a view to mitigating the effects of the most troublesome soil-borne pests and diseases, and to deliver higher yields of consistently better quality tubers for growers.

“We have known for some years the results with Amistar in reducing the unsightly skin disease, Black Dot, and limiting the effects of Rhizoctonia which can cause inconsistent tuber size and variable dry matter that influences cooking characteristics and taste, along with increased levels of tuber cracking and poor skin finish quality,” reported Mr Blyth.

“Nemathorin is also increasingly being used where free living nematodes are causing heavy yield loss alongside endemic populations of Potato Cyst Nematode.

What Is ‘Modernised’ Agriculture?

By Patrick Krause Chief Executive, Scottish Crofting Federation

www.crofting.org There was a pertinent press release recently from Alyn Smith MEP commenting on a new report from the United Nations which outlines the scale of the challenge facing farmers and governments to ensure global food security. The report, part of a major research project by the UN’s food security body, warns that increasing land degradation, depletion of water resources and a loss of biodiversity are putting food production systems around the world at risk.

Alyn’s remarks on the need to do away with ‘business-asusual’ farming give further weight to arguments that many of the recommendations in the ‘Pack Report’ which are being taken forward by the Scottish Government do not contribute to necessary deep and rapid agricultural change in Scotland towards less-intensive, smaller scale approaches, such as crofting.

He also rightly pointed out, agricultural policies at a European level “don’t necessarily stack up” at the moment. Report after report from the United Nations and other institutions of global governance are now declaring that, as individual producers and as nations, we need to leave behind high-input and highenergy use ‘modernised’ agricultural systems.

This is particularly difficult in Scotland as, traditionally, we have been proud of our ‘improved’ agricultural systems which have, in the past, been well thought of throughout Europe. Yet the basic motivation for this ‘improvement’ was to increase profit and personal wealth. Such ‘improved’ agriculture has, indeed, increased the financial wealth of the few and enabled cheaper food for the many. But, over the long-term, it is exhausting the fertility of the land – the very basis by which our food is

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produced – and requires inputs of fertiliser and pesticide that our world just cannot sustain.

That ‘improved’ agriculture leads to the exhaustion of land and the erosion of societies was a message that crofters gave to the Napier Commission more than a century ago. Loud and clear, this is what organisations like the UN are now also telling us.

The thrust of the Scottish Government’s ‘Pack Report’ on the future of agricultural support, which is focussed on trying to shore up Scotland’s failing agri-industrialestablishment, is already alarmingly out-of-date. Policymakers need to ditch the old assumptions of ‘efficiency’ based on high input systems and unsustainable short-term yields. This kind of efficiency means cutting labour costs and putting more profit in fewer pockets. In the Highlands it is called ‘Clearance’. Instead of ‘Clearance’ we need to marry appropriate scale technologies with what remains of our traditional knowledge of how to work with the land and live in community.

In such a context, the smallscale, low intensity, communally oriented world of crofting provides a model for the country as a whole, and, because of this, the issue of land tenure is important for Scotland.

We are calling on the government to endorse a policy of increasing the number of crofts in Scotland by 10,000 by the year 2020 and increasing the amount of Scottish land in crofting tenure to 25 per cent by 2030.

What is needed now is not agricultural ‘improvement’ but ‘adaptation’ to the reality of a world of material scarcity and constraint. Creating a genuinely sustainable food system will be among the great challenges of the modern era. In the Scottish context, the extension of crofting will be key to meeting it.

19 17

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.

Farm antibiotics increasing the threat of untreatable human diseases A new report Case Study of a Health Crisis finds there has been an alarming rise in new farm superbugs, especially MRSA and E. coli that are passing to humans. The report links this rise to the fact that nearly 50% of all antibiotics are used in farming and argues that one of the fundamental causes of food and animal-related antibiotic resistance is factory farming.

Most pigs, poultry and dairy cows receive antibiotics routinely, whether or not they are unwell, with some European pigs spending an average of 20% of their lives on antibiotics.

Over the last decade entirely new E.coli and MRSA superbugs have become major problems on European farms due to the overuse of antibiotics. These are spreading between farms and

also passing to humans, making it more difficult for doctors to treat affected patients, with potentially fatal delays in identifying an effective antibiotic when needed.

The recently founded Alliance to Save Our Antibiotics - consisting of Compassion in World Farming, the Soil Association and Sustain - has launched its first report to coincide with the expected publication of the European Commission’s 5-year strategy on antimicrobial resistance [17 Nov] and European Antibiotic Awareness Day [18 Nov]. New antibiotics are now rarely developed and the Alliance aims to help ‘Save Our Antibiotics’, by preventing their overuse within EU farming.

[1] [2] The Alliance is calling for the overall use of antibiotics on

EU farms to be halved by 2015 – with an emphasis on ending all routine, prophylactic use. It also wants major restrictions placed on the farm use of antibiotics that are ‘critically important’ in human medicine.

Key recommendations to curb antibiotic use on farms in the EU are offered. Veterinary surgeons must shoulder the responsibility of implementing reduction strategies but all of us - farmers, retailers, consumers, doctors and regulators – need to play our part in ensuring a farming industry that is not reliant on the use of non-essential antibiotics.

Joyce D’Silva, Director of Public Affairs at Compassion in World Farming, says: “Farm animals in the EU are being routinely treated with antibiotics as a cheap insurance

Code breakers Scientists have cracked the genetic code of the humble pigeonpea, known as “poor people’s meat” because of its high protein content, and this could be the key to helping to feed the world, according to experts at the World Agricultural Forum Congress 2011, meeting next week (28 November) in Brussels.

The scientist leading the research is available for interview.

The impact of these findings will be discussed at the 2011 Congress of the World Agricultural Forum entitled “Rethinking Agriculture to sustain a growing global population” from 28 November to 1 December 2011 in Brussels.

Delegates will address the new ways of feeding the growing global population, now seven billion. Global leaders from the business, political, diplomatic, NGO and academic worlds will be attending.

Following years of analysis by a global research partnership, 20

scientists have cracked the pigeonpea genome sequence.

The legume is set to join the world’s league of food crops, to provide a cheap source of food in regions ravaged by famine and hunger. Drought tolerance was identified as unique to the genes of the pigeonpea, a vital trait that can be transferred to other crops to improve food production in semi-arid regions of the world.

Experts from the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics will present their findings at the World Agricultural Forum Congress 2011, a gathering of speakers and delegates from around the world, representing business, political, diplomatic, NGO and academic experts.

William Dar, Director General of the International Crops Research Institute, said: “The mapping of the pigeonpea genome is a major breakthrough.

Now that the world is faced with

hunger and famine, particularly in the Horn of Africa brought about by the worst drought for decades, this is vital to providing a solution to poverty and hunger.”

The breakthrough will help to reduce the cost of developing new improved varieties of pigeonpea for farmers, grown on about 5 million hectares in Asia, sub-Saharan Africa and SouthCentral America.

Constituted by the non-profit World Agricultural Forum, the Congresses have a unique record of bringing together speakers and delegates from all walks of life in a neutral environment. Global leaders from the business, political, diplomatic, NGO and academic worlds will be present to think and debate how things can be done differently to improve global food security. As always many delegates will have strong opinions. But being impartial, the Congress is open to all ideas and shades of opinion.

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policy.

This indiscriminate overuse on the factory farm makes a world without effective antibiotics for humans ever more likely.”

The report recognises the essential need to retain antibiotic treatment for sick animals, to prevent suffering and maintain good animal welfare, but argues this too can be significantly reduced by improving the conditions under which most farm animals are kept. [3] Richard Young, Soil Association Policy Advisor, says: “Organic farmers have shown it is entirely possible to raise healthy animals with minimal use of antibiotics.

We cannot get rid of factory farming overnight, but we could immediately start a Europewide programme of change to look after animals in ways that naturally keep them healthy.

Professor Christopher Butler, Head of the Institute of Primary Care and Public Health at Cardiff University who wrote the foreword of the report, says: “Antibiotics have saved numerous lives and have rightly been termed ‘wonder’ drugs.

However, more and more antibiotics have been consumed for less and less benefit in many settings. All too often, antibiotics are prescribed in situations where the risk of harm outweighs the chance of benefit from the antibiotics. A significant contribution comes from overreliance on routine use of antibiotics in intensive farming.

It is not tenable to regard animal medicine as having marginal relevance to human health. Systems are interlinked.

The challenge now is to focus on antibiotic stewardship programmes that take a holistic view, incorporating all domains of antibiotic use.”

In October the European Parliament passed a resolution calling on the European Commission to address the growing problem of antimicrobial resistance on farms passing to humans.

TYRES

TYRES FIT FOR PURPOSE

The right quality tyres for your machine, and good maintenance with the onset of winter is vital Trelleborg features the new TM1000 High Power with its THK rim Trelleborg Wheel Systems presented the best of its highquality tyres and complete wheel at the recently staged Agritechnica show.

“Flying into the future”, represented the aim and values of the Trelleborg initiative for the future of agriculture. These were the introduction of complete wheel solutions engineered to boost efficiency and productivity for farmers and contractors, meeting the demand of the increasing load and torque of the newest generation of engines and transmissions while fully respecting the environment.

Innovations include the new giant 2.3 meter tyre IF 750/75R46 TM1000 High Power with its 46-inch rim, the new IF 650/65R34 TM1000 High Power tire, the THK concept of agricultural rim, the TMBlueTM in size 650/65R38 and the 750/60R30.5 Twin

Radial tyre with new Tread design.

The ambition of the TM1000 High Power along with its new Trelleborg THK rim is to redefine the standards within the agricultural industry. The complete wheel is currently undergoing a significant number of indoor and outdoor tests in order to meet ambitious performance targets under the most severe conditions, both in the field and on the road.

During field operations the tyre gives a traction capacity five to eight percent higher compared to other premium brand competitors, with a five percent wider footprint at low inflation pressure enhanced by Trelleborg BlueTire™ technology. On the road, premium rolling resistance performance is expected to lower fuel consumption and emissions by four to six percent compared to the average of the market, providing farmers with savings up to 1,300 EUR per year.

Trelleborf TM1000

Agricultural Tyres and Wheels from Redpath Tyres The company ethos of Any Tyre, Anywhere, Anytime has been the foundations of Redpath Tyres growth over the last 36

years. With 10 locations and 28 service vehicles on 24/7 call whether it be a trailer on the roadside or a combine in the middle of a field, you can be assured of a rapid response day or night.

Trelleborf TM800

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21

TYRES

Testing Michelin in combines

All Repath Tyres depots operate a 24 hour callout and 24hr Breakdown Service in support of a vast range of support services such as: On site fitting, Water ballasting, Vulcanised repair, Wheel alignment, Wheel modification & complete unit assembles and the best expert advice.

There is also a large stock of new tyres and part worn agricultural tyres at very competitive rates, while budget

Michelin CerexBib Harvester tyre

and premium brands are stocked as standard.

Redpath Tyres are one of the largest independent dealers in the UK, they offer competitive pricing on all main brands such as Michelin, Firestone, Kleber, Goodyear, Trelleborg, Continental and economy brands such as Mitas.

Their warehouse holds over £500,000.00 of agricultural stock for rapid dispatch throughout the UK.

Used/Part Worn Agricultural Tyres Redpath Tyres 2 acre yard holds, what is regarded as, the largest stocks of part worn demounted tractor and flotation tyres in Europe!

Whether one tyre to match up or pairs or sets they have sizes from the smallest trailer to the largest tractor and combine tyres.

Redpath tyres specialise in those “difficult to find” sizes and, as their stock is continually changing, just give them a call for all your requirements.

For your nearest branch call : 01361 882266 or visit www. redpathtyres.com Michelin MegaXbib and MachXbib tyres used in scientific trial highlights varying impact on soil compaction between different harvester tyres A trial conducted by an independent soil scientist has found significant differences in the level of soil compaction from a combine harvester, depending on the make and type of tyre fitted. This can have a significant impact on plant root growth and yield potential.

The trial was carried out by Philip J Wright BSc (Hons) C Eng MI AgrE, of Wright Resolutions (www.wrightresolutions.co.uk), using a Claas Lexion APS Hybrid Combine at the manufacturer’s headquarters in Saxham.

It tested Michelin’s new CerexBib combine harvester tyre, which uses Michelin’s patented Ultraflex technology, against conventional agricultural

22

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tyres commonly fitted to combine harvesters.

This included Michelin’s MegaXbib and MachXbib tyres, plus standard fitments from two other tyre manufacturers.

The Claas combine made two runs through the field for each tyre configuration, with soil compaction measured using a penetrometer at positions chosen randomly along the path of the tyres. To ensure the maximum effect, both front and rear tyres were taken into account and all measurements were compared to the “control” of un-trafficked areas of the field between the wheels.

The recorded data found a significant difference in the mean level of soil compaction between the Ultraflex technology and conventional technology tyres.

The CerexBib fitments created a significantly lower level of compaction, mean 1099kPa, compared to the other makes of tyre. Michelin’s MegaXbib (front) and MachXbib (rear) fitment recorded a mean compaction of 1425kPa, compared to 1506kPa and 1603kPa for the two other tyre brands.

Commenting on the results, Philip Wright explains: “Overall, it is clear that for depths to 25cm, the compacting effect of the Ultraflex technology tyres is significantly lower than the conventional tyres which all give broadly similar effects. Plant root growth, and yield potential, will therefore be less adversely affected by using CerexBib tyres than the other conventional technology fitments.”

RENEWABLEENERGY

Green energy award winner

Scottish Scale wind turbine manufacturer Gaia-Wind Ltd has won the prestigious Scottish Renewables Green Energy Award for business growth. The Award recognises “outstanding business growth or the development of exciting and ambitious plans for the future by a renewable energy business” and comes just days after the company was ranked at number five in the list of Europe’s fastest growing Cleantech companies.* Niall Stuart, Chief Executive of Scottish Renewables, said: “The winners reflect the huge strength in Scotland’s renewable energy industry, and the range of different types of projects from new community

wind developments to cuttingedge wave and tidal devices.

All of them will make their own important contribution to Scotland’s ambitions for renewables and in creating jobs, promoting investment and in cutting carbon emissions over the coming years.”

Gaia-Wind CEO Johnnie Andringa said: “Renewable energy is crucial to the future of Scotland and the UK and small wind is a vital sector.

Gaia Wind is very proud to have been recognised as delivering outstanding growth in our sector by developing and carrying out our “ambitious plans” for what we believe certainly will be a very exciting future.”

“Over the course of the last year or so Gaia-Wind has created a world class Global Hub integrating R&D, design engineering, assembly and testing, as well as worldwide distribution and supply chain management – all on one site in Glasgow.

“The business is growing faster than the market: According to the FIT register Gaia-Wind had about 30% unit share of installed turbines in the 10-20kW range over the 15 months leading up to June this year. On this platform we have generated more than 30 jobs in our UK Company, not to mention the immediate service and supply chain, with the potential to double this figure in the coming years.

“This success is built on long experience” said Andringa.

“More than 350 Gaia-Wind turbines have been “in the ground” for a combined operational time of more than 11 million hours.

That’s over 1,500 years. In Denmark, for example 77 of our Gaia-Wind turbines have been running for more than 10 years “Our customers now live in an information-rich environment.

This means renewables companies have got to be able to back up their sales techniques with the facts. Transparency about performance, potential return on investment and help with planning are key to helping our customers join the green energy revolution.”

One of the UK’s largest independent fashion retailers, Mackays Group, which trades as M&Co, is talking to farmers and landowners in a bid to secure its continued growth by becoming the first High Street chain to secure full control of its future electricity consumption.

The move will see all of M&Co’s stores, in nearly 300 towns across the UK, powered by renewable sources supplied by its own renewable energy sources. To ensure total control and long-term supply, Mackays Group has launched a whollyowned subsidiary business, MEG Renewables, which will invest in, develop and operate small to medium-scale wind turbine sites across the UK. MEG Renewables will be working with farmers and landowners in order to develop suitable wind turbine sites.

MEG Renewables is led by managing director, Neil McGeoch.

A well-known beef farmer with a herd of 130 Simmentals on his farm in Ayrshire, Neil recognises the pressures on farming and landowning businesses, particularly in view of the likely changes to the Single Farm

Payment Scheme from 2014, and believes that MEG renewable offers the right approach and flexibility to help landowners diversify their income streams.

According to Ken Hunter, business development manager at MEG Renewables, the response to date from farmers and landowners has been encouraging. He said: “Approaches are being made by lots of individuals and organisations promising all sorts of deals, but our experience is that farmers and landowners like the idea of working with a name they know and a business that has been around for a long time. The fact that MEG Renewables will retain full responsibility for the life of the turbines is a further plus point.

“As an independent and privately-funded developer, MEG Renewables provides the risk capital to progress projects through each of the development stages, with no requirement for any expenditure by the landowner. We are confident that we will be able to progress sites across the UK to meet our goal of supplying M&Co with all its electricity needs from renewable sources.”

Mackays Group’s strategy is different to that adopted by many other retailers, where supply contracts are generally in place with third party windfarm owners.

The MEG Renewables’ model is to develop and own smaller sites of typically one to three turbines, with a combined capacity of between 500 kilowatt and 5 megawatt. The output from these turbines will be secured directly by M&Co. With MEG Renewables project managing sites, rather than just financing them, the arrangement will also mean that the M&Co business will have continuity of supply throughout the 25 years or more of a site’s operational lease.

Duncan Black, Energy Manager for M&Co, sees this move as beneficial on two fronts.

He said: “As well as providing a secure source of renewable electricity, in line with our desire to minimise our carbon footprint, owning our own wind turbines provides a valuable hedge against any future upward movements in electricity prices.”

MEG Renewables has estimated it will need to develop up to 20 megawatts to service all its stores. This approach to

develop smaller sites is in keeping with MEG Renewables strategy to maintain a broad portfolio of renewable energy assets.

Recognising the often lengthy lead time involved from when a potential site is identified, to the turbine blades finally generating, MEG Renewables is interested not only in ‘greenfield’ development opportunities, but also in sites which have ceased to progress.

Ken Hunter explains: “Quite often sites are identified but then stall, due to planning or investment issues for example – MEG Renewables is prepared to explore these opportunities on a case-bycase basis.”

Farmers to help generate wind power for the High Street

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RENEWABLEENERGY

SIAC WIND ENERGY LAUNCHES NEW WEBSITE AS SOLAR ENERGY DEBATE RAGES ON A new-look website from fastgrowing wind energy specialist SIAC Wind Energy – available at www.siacwindenergy.com – means it is now easier than ever before to discover how investing in a wind turbine system can help save money, a particularly relevant concern within the renewable energy market as the controversial debate over Feed-In Tariffs (FITs) for solar energy continues.

As electricity bills remain on the increase and many voice concerns on the uncertainty of solar energy providing a strong return on investment in future, the website demonstrates why small and medium scale wind turbines offer sound financial incentives.

Featuring a number of easy-to-use, interactive tools, it includes a Wind Calculator that quickly estimates whether a location is suitable for a wind turbine system. This uses Google Earth placement to easily identify a particular location which then maps to the turbine power curve to estimate the amount of electricity likely to be generated by a given turbine at that location’s average wind speed.

Additionally, users can browse products, read case

studies and projects, research the planning stages involved in setting up a wind turbine system and stay up-to-date on the latest news from SIAC Wind Energy.

Patrick Dormon, Managing Director of SIAC Wind Energy, commented: “The run-away growth of solar energy means many considering this option now feel disappointed that the government has imposed significant reductions to future solar panel subsidies. As a result, people are looking even more earnestly at alternative sources – such as small scale wind turbines – to generate local energy. SIAC Wind Energy has access to some of the world’s most trusted technology, including the renowned Bergey turbines, with the world’s longest and most successful track record in its class.”

He added: “Providing an informative and accessible online experience for users is important to us, and central to our ambitions of being a prudent partner of choice when it comes to renewable wind energy.”

For further information about SIAC Wind Energy call 01666 501377 or visitwww. siacwindenergy.com

Cutting costs of farm fuel use By Tom Robertson, SAC Farm Machinery Specialist

With fuel prices showing no signs of falling, ways to reduce the annual fuel bill are always welcome.

Here are five key areas to consider that could help you to make better use of your fuel spend on farm machinery: 1. Match tractor size to the job in hand Bigger tractors will use more fuel; could the same job be done just as well with a smaller machine?

High powered tractors are now commonplace on the farm and are used for a range of light work during the year. If you can, use a smaller tractor for light work to cut unnecessary fuel use.

2. Consider reduced tillage Although not suitable for all land, reduced tillage techniques can cut fuel use.

For example, ploughing, cultivating and sowing can use around 60 litres diesel per hectare; direct drilling can cut this down to around 12 litres/ ha. Min till would be about half way between these two figures, again depending on the system used.

3. Check you have the right size of tyre at the correct pressure All tyres have a recommended pressure for different working speeds; tyre pressure can make a big impact on fuel usage.

Bigger tyres allow us to work them at lower pressures, meaning less soil damage

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through ruts and compaction and better fuel efficiency through less slip and less rolling resistance climbing out of ruts.

4. Keep on top of tractor maintenance A dirty air cleaner can reduce power output by 30% or more, as injected fuel cant be burned properly.

Fuel contaminated with dirt or water will damage high pressure fuel pumps and injectors, again leading to higher fuel consumption, lower power output and increased maintenance costs.

5. Fuel storage Check the fuel storage tank; most new tanks with transfer pumps have a filter.

The increased use of biofuel has made fuel more susceptible to attack from bacteria, forming a thick sludge.

Make sure fuel doesn’t lie around for more than six months. This can be an issue for combines in storage but fuel treatment systems can be used to prevent problems arising.

It could pay to reconsider current practices; even small changes can add up to significant cash savings on the annual fuel bill and help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from your farm into the bargain.

For more details on these and other ways to improve farm efficiency and benefit the bottom line, visit www. farmingforabetterclimate.org or follow us on Twitter via @ SACFarm4Climate .

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MUCK SPREADERS

MUCK & MONEY

Nine makes of spreaders for the season ahead

Hi-Spec manure spreader

Hi-Spec slurry and manure spreaders One of the problems with surface application of liquid slurry is the loss of ammonium nitrogen into the atmosphere.

To avoid this, Hi-Spec is able to provide a complete range of spreading and injection options for its vacuum tanker range.

Hi-Spec vacuum tankers are available in a wide range of sizes and specification, from 800 gallons up to 4500 gallons. On the larger tankers to keep ground compaction to a minimum, these can equipped with a high speed tandem axle, that incorporates commercial specification braking and a steering rear axle.

A new option for Hi-Spec vacuum tankers is the Flotagrip 600/65 R23 tyre. Wider than a conventional 21.3 diameter tyre, but not as high, this has a high load and speed rating of 8000kg/tyre at 40kph.

For filling, to keep filling turn-around time to a minimum, the tankers can the fitted with a number of filling options. Larger tankers can be

Harry West dual spreader

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equipped with a 11,000 litres/ minute vacuum pump, filled via a 6 inch diameter Autofill arm that is hydraulically operated from the cab.

Harry West Dual Spreaders The Harry West Dual Spreader range 1300 gallon to 3000 gallon. These spreaders will deal with slurry and solid material and having the small and large machines in our range will suit most farmers and contractors. With the design of the Dual taking the material forward keeping weight on to the rear of the tractor ensuring traction is maintained. The low power requirement and low ground pressure large radius tyres will ensure fuel economy and create minimum ground compaction. With our robust design ensuring longevity it no wonder we are the market leader with over 50% share in the UK for the last few years.

Latest range from Rolland and looking for dealers in Scotland!

The latest Rollmax range

MUCK SPREADERS spinning disc design, other options that aid the spreading of different materials are either the detachable spinner deck or the simple canopy for vertical auger machines.

Weigh cell options are being fitted to an increasing number of machines.

The latest Rollmax from Rolland

from Rolland France’s largest manufacturer,offers two beater frame options, the C10 EDT twin vertical beater system and TCE wide spread spinning deck system which spreads up to 30m depending on product density.

Complimenting this range is Rolland’s Rolltwin traditional spreader with large diameter wheels on the outside of the body for easy towing. This 8 strong range from 7t up to 20t offer 5 different beater frames which are interchangeable on most models, these cover the small farmer up to the punishing hire market where the C13 twin vertical beaters are 22mm thick and dynamically balanced.

Rolland have spreading covered with their two ranges; offering huge volume up to 37 cubic meters with the Rollmax line and a 7 beater frame option which will cope with compost,sludge,poultry manure,straw and liquid aswell.

Weigh systems are offered on all models which give customers more traceability and eventually the possibility of charging per ton spread.

Please call for a catalogue and information about your local dealer network.

Wide choice from G.T. Bunning Since 1906 the Bunning family have always listened to their customers feedback and requirements.

This feature of the companies ethos has meant that it now offers the widest range of rear discharge manure spreaders on the UK market.

Models are available from as small as 6 tonne all the way up to 35 tonnes with just about every variation of body size, number of axles and wheel equipment possible. The market leading Mk4 range has 10 models available with axle carrying capacities from 6 to 19 tonnes with the largest body

variation capable of holding 21 cubic meters. Defined by its body width of 1500mm (59�0), single axle with large diameter wheels and fully welded construction the mk4 are suited to both farmers and contractors. The most popular discharge mechanism is the twin vertical augers but sales are increasing of the twin horizontal beater and

Kuhn maximising the value of FYM Under NVZ regulations, farmyard manure is a less onerous commodity to manage than slurry or artificial fertiliser, but it still needs to be used effectively if maximum value is to be gained.

Effective spreading is a key part of cashing in on the nutritional and soil enhancing properties of farmyard manure and to this

G.T. Bunning spreader

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MUCK SPREADERS with two horizontal beaters and two spreading discs, the Strautmann range is suitable for spreading a wide range of material, including lime. The spreaders feature a low empty weight for high rated loads, which simultaneously offers excellent strength and stability.

The BE range features a fully galvanized body and frame which offers a high degree of protection against corrosion, and thus longer life and higher second hand value.

Kuhn spreader in action

end it is important to have the right machine.

On a suckler beef unit producing 3,000 tonnes of manure each year, use of Kuhn’s Pro Twin Slinger side exit manure spreader is saving one farm substantial sums. With each tonne of FYM estimated to contain 0.6 kg of available nitrogen, 3.5 kg of phosphate and 8.0

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kg of potash, this volume of natural fertiliser is worth over £10/tonne at current values, offering a massive saving by being utilised effectively.

Strautmann range from Reco RECO offer a series of Muck Spreaders from the Strautmann range. Available in capacities between 10.5 and 20m³,

Teagle Titan Rear Discharge spreaders Teagle have commenced manufacture of the ‘Titan’ range of 10 to 14 cubic metre muck spreaders at their factory in Cornwall. A number of improvements have been made including development of the bed chain drive, the slurry gate and a greater flare of the body to improve load capacity

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without increasing loading height. The Titan models complement smaller and larger machines with capacities from 6 to 20 cubic metres built for Teagle by French manufacturer Le Boulch. The high specification of the Teagle range provides exceptional durability and ease of use which has ensured that the range has quickly gained popularity with farmers and contractors alike.

Loading the machines is easy thanks to the low lip height, they are also easy to manoeuvre and have good ground clearance.

Most importantly they ensure a consistently high output through the heavy duty driveline, whilst the large diameter overlapping beaters provide a fine and wide spread pattern. Optional electric controls are available to control the speed of the bed chain – a manual speed control is standard.

MUCK SPREADERS

Strautmann spreader

Prices start at around ÂŁ17,500 for a 10m3 machine with a slurry gate, oversize wheels, sprung drawbar and PTO with cam clutch.

Samson going big for 2012 Samson are one of the largest producers of manure and slurry handling equipment in Europe they have been producing

New Samson spreader

manure spreaders for over 65 years and today have some of the most technically advanced machines available in Europe.

They introduced the first twin vertical rear discharge spreader into the UK in 1988 in the form of the Samson 9thm manure spreader Many of these early machines are still working today some 20 years later In this time the Samson

concept has been replicated by many other manufactures but never bettered for quality and reliability.

Samson produce manure spreaders from 9m3 to 21 m3 in the sp range of spreaders with twin vertical rotors and up to 12m spread width 17m3 to 24m3 in the flex range which come twin vertical rotors or

with twin horizontal rotors and spinning deck for spread width up to 24m All machines come standard with draw bar suspension, wide angle pto, automatic safety clutch, brakes and lights.

Samson are about to embark on their biggest ever product launch through out

Dealers for Richard Western Muck Spreaders Forfar Tel: 01307 462281 Perth Tel: 01738 583249 Laurencekirk Tel: 01561 378888 Dundonald Tel: 01563 851900 Doune Tel: 01786 842921 www.agricar.co.uk www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

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MUCK SPREADERS

Teagle Titan

2012 starting with the SPE/B 17m3 to 21m3 machines pictured these will be followed by smaller machines throughout 2012.

Spinning disc spreading kit with horizontal beaters from Richard Western With increasing demand for accurate spreading of high

Latest Richard Western model

nutrient manures Richard Western Ltd has introduced the latest version of their spinning disc spreading kit. Replacing the standard twin vertical beaters with horizontal beaters and a canopy, a constant flow of material is delivered onto the large diameter spinning discs. Spreading widths of over 24m can be achieved

and spreading widths are controlled by disc speed and an adjustable rear panel. The spinning disc spreader can be operated between 540 and 1000 PTO speeds and comes standard with harden wear parts and a hydraulically operated boundary limiter.

The spinning disc spreading kit is available on the Delilah D10,D12 and D18t models

and on all FBS tandem axle spreaders.

A quick attach system allows you to have two spreader units on your Delilah or FBS spreader and allows you to choose the right spreading unit for the job in hand, twin vertical beaters for high application rates and spinning discs for low application rates.

DEALERS KEY (Participating Dealers in this feature) GT BUNNING MLM Engineering www.mlmengineering.co.uk Orphir : 01856 811282 HARRY WEST DKR Agricultural Services www.jd-dealer.co.uk/dkagri Biggar : 01899 220897

Huntly : 01466 799222 Fraserburgh : 01346 541351 Glenrothes : 01592 775511 Conon Bridge : 01349 866021 Linklater Engineering www.linklaterengineering. co.uk Stenness : 01856 851000

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

Bryson tractors www.brysontractors.co.uk Lanark : 01555 660888

Reekie Group www.reekie.co.uk Stirling : 01786 477530 Perth : 01738 622471 Cupar : 01334 652445

Reekie Group www.reekie.co.uk Stirling : 01786 477530 Perth : 01738 622471 Cupar : 01334 652445

HI SPEC AM Phillip www.amphillip.co.uk Forfar : 01307 474001

KUHN Bryson tractors www.brysontractors.co.uk Lanark : 01555 660888

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John McNae Engineering www.mcnae.net Mauchline : 01292 541920 RICHARD WESTERN Agricar www.agricar.co.uk Forfar : 01307 462281 Perth : 01738 583249 Laurencekirk : 01561 378888 Dundonald : 01563 851900 Doune : 01786 842921 DKR Agricultural Services www.jd-dealer.co.uk/dkagri Biggar : 01899 220897 SAMSON W & A Geddes Wick : 01955 602207 Brora : 01408 621220 STRAUTMANN Ancroft Tractors www.ancroft-tractors.co.uk

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Berwick upon Tweed : 01289 331904 Kelso : 01573 225213 Macmerry : 01875 617323 Bryson tractors www.brysontractors.co.uk Lanark : 01555 660888 TEAGLE Sellars Agriculture Ltd www.sellar.co.uk Oldmeldrum : 01651 782891 Newbridge : 0131 333 2970 W & A Geddes Wick : 01955 602207 Brora : 01408 621220

LIVESTOCK

Two new products from Scotmin

Scotmin Nutrition, the Ayr-based feed supplement manufacturer renowned for the FM Dairy Mineral range and Megalix brand of molassed mineral tubs have added two exciting new products to their range.

Megastart Ewe & Lamb is a molassed complimentary feeding tub to be given to ewes during the later stages of pregnancy with the aim of producing strong, healthy lambs as well as balancing the requirements of the mother during the most demanding period of her cycle. The second addition is Megastart Pre-Calver, a high specification free choice tub giving the correct balance to cows during the dry period hence aiding in the prevention of postcalving mineral deficiencies for cow and calf alike.

The special feature of both Megastart products is the incorporation of Safmannan, a mannan oligosaccharide (MOS)

product produced by ingredient specialist Lesaffre. Safmannan MOS is unique in that it is cell wall material harvested from a specific strain of yeast and therefore renowned for its consistent quality. This particular MOS has been extensively used in mono-gastric diets to improve gut health and animal performance; however Scottish trials in 2004 demonstrated a 25% improvement in colostrum IgG concentration when fed to ewes pre-lambing.

Megastart is not just about Safmannan, the Ewe and Lamb formula contains energy from protected fat, cereals and molasses all of which help reduce problems with Twin Lamb Disease. The generous Vitamin E content can also improve levels found in the blood of both ewe and lamb, a key factor in lamb vigour where lambs manage to stand and suckle faster than those with no supplementation.

For ewes part-wintered on brassicas, particular attention has been paid to the trace mineral balance and in addition, the inclusion of thiamine will help to alleviate problems associated with cerebro-cortical necrosis

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(CCN) also known as blind staggers.

All in all Megastart Ewe & Lamb is a powerful package for the flock, typically fed during the last 4-6 weeks of pregnancy with intakes in the range of 100-150g per head per day.

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LIVESTOCK

UNION WELCOMES EID DELAY FOR HISTORIC FLOCK

NFU Scotland has warmly welcomed a decision taken by the EU Commission to extend the deadline for the compulsory electronic tagging of sheep born before 1 January 2010 to the end of 2014.

The requirement to electronically tag the so called ‘Historic Flock’ had originally been scheduled to come into force at the end of December 2011, but sustained lobbying efforts have resulted in an extension to this deadline, which was formally endorsed by the Standing Committee for Food Chain and Animal Health.

There has been no obligation for animals born before 1 January 2010 to be electronically

identified or individually recorded.

The requirement to individually record the movements of these older sheep represented a substantial administrative burden, requiring manual recording of individual numbers or upgrading animals to electronic tags.

Livestock Policy Manager for NFU Scotland, Penny Johnston said: “The original deadline of December 2011 for all these older animals to be electronically tagged was really rubbing salt in the wounds of farmers who are already struggling to keep on top of all the requirements associated with cumbersome EID regulations.

“The UK Government made the request

for a delay on behalf of farming Unions in an effort to ease some of the increasing burden on farmers of sheep EID, and while a compromise, we are delighted with the result. “Part of the compromise is that there will be no extension to the derogation beyond 2014. So although this isn’t a permanent solution, the extension from the end of this year to the end of 2014 will significantly reduce the number of older animals likely to be affected.

“The news represents a welcome reprieve for the industry,

Ritchie mobile cattle crate en route to Russia

A Ritchie cattle handling system is shown being loaded for transhipment to Russia.

Overseas interest in the Forfar manufactured product range has been increasing now for some time as Russian farmers gear up to improve farming and food production. Ritchie’s selfcontained mobile cattle crate incorporates a variety of safety features, allowing a secure animal to be safely treated whilst reducing stress for the operator and animal. The system is easily 34

and we see it as recognition from officials of the very real problems being faced by our farmers on the ground in working with this regulation. “The unnecessary requirement to record the individual identities of older sheep is just one of the many aspects of sheep EID that NFU Scotland has been working hard to change. The Union is meeting with Scottish Government and other stakeholders today at a Sheep EID Summit to press upon Government the other aspects of the regulation that need urgent attention.”

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packed up and transported on to another farm unit.

Ritchie was established 140 years ago as a blacksmith service to the Angus farming community. Now it has two manufacturing sites, one in Forfar, Scotland and one in Bilsdon, Wolverhampton, where the latest galvanising, CNC, robotic and computer technologies support a skilled and motivated workforce supplying the UK and world markets.

LIVESTOCK

Mull Monitor Farm Meeting – Improving hill suckler herd productivity Improving hill suckler herd productivity in an easily managed, extensive system was the main topic at the recent meeting of the Quality Meat Scotland, (QMS) Monitor Farm on the Isle of Mull - Torloisk, a predominantly hill and 7,600 acre unit on the island’s western coast.

The rugged and challenging Torloisk is farmed on a five year Short Limited Duration tenancy by Iain MacKay. In addition to a flock of 850 ewes, Mr MacKay runs the “Cnoc-naSith” (The Peaceful Hill) fold of approximately 50 pedigree Highland cows, with plans to increase numbers to around 60.

“My aim is to develop an easily

managed enterprise, with a maximum of 60 functional and productive cows, based very much on commercial lines”, Mr MacKay told the community group.

“We get over 120 inches of rain here annually, so I am keen to stick with Highlanders.

Thanks to their hardiness they can be out-wintered. Also their foraging ability makes them an essential part of the grazing management. “I am keen to retain the pedigree element, which I enjoy, and have been fortunate to have sold breeding heifers for premium prices, including two recent export consignments to Switzerland”.

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LIVESTOCK SAC launches new website to protect sheep and goat health

There has been a warm response from the industry for a new SAC online resource to help sheep and goat producers avoid introducing disease to their flocks and herds when purchasing livestock.

The new website at www. psghs.co.uk lists the health status of flocks and herds currently registered with SAC’s Premium Sheep and Goat Health Scheme (PSGHS). More than 3000

producers are registered with the scheme, which is the UK’s only programme providing health status accreditation to sheep and goats.

The site provides a directory showing the health status of registered flocks and herds for Maedi Visna (MV), Caprine Arthritis Encephalitis (CAE), and Enzootic Abortion of Ewes (EAE). It also indicates which flocks and herds are members

of the Scrapie Monitoring Scheme (SMS). The tool was developed through discussions with PSGHS members.

SAC urges producers who are not already registered with the Premium Sheep and Goat Health Scheme to consider signing up.

For more information, please call 01463 226995 or email SGHS@sac.co.uk.

NORBROOK’S NEW NSAID FOR CATTLE, PIGS AND HORSES

Norbrook is expanding their popular NSAID range with the launch of Loxicom Injection for Cattle, Pigs and Horses.

The new product, which will be available to vets from mid-October, offers treatment for a range of symptoms including pneumonia, acute mastitis and calf scour in cattle,

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swine locomotor diseases such as lameness and MMA syndrome, acute and chronic musculo-skeletal disorders and equine colic.

“Loxicom is our tried and trusted NSAID range which has been available in suspension or injection for cats and dogs and which has proven

exceptionally popular with veterinary practices. According to the GFK data, Norbrook is the most successful generic manufacturer of Meloxicam, by some distance,” explains Rebecca Pullon, Norbrook Product Manager.

“I am delighted that we can now extend this range to include a Loxicom Injection for Cattle, Pigs and Horses, which I am confident will prove equally as popular.”

Loxicom, Norbrook’s meloxicam product, is of course bio-equivalent to the pioneer product, with a proven track record for efficacy and safety.

Norbrook manufactures pharmaceutical products for almost all veterinary pharmaceutical multinationals.

The development and registration of such generic

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products face the rigours of contemporaneous standards on quality, safety and efficacy that must be attained to achieve a marketing authorisation.

“As a bio-equivalent product, Loxicom Injection for Cattle, Pigs and Horses is as effective as the pioneer product,” adds Ms Pullon.

“There is a misperception that a bioequivalent product is somehow inferior to the pioneer product, which is untrue. In order to attain a license, a company must prove that a bioequivalent product is at least as effective as the pioneer. With Loxicom Injection for Cattle, Pigs and Horses, it comes with the added reassurance that it has been produced by Norbrook, a world leader in animal health and veterinary pharmaceuticals manufacture.”

NFUS WELCOMES SIGNS OF LIVESTOCK NUMBERS STABILISING Producers Reminded of New Beef Scheme Arrangements for 2012 NFU Scotland has welcomed signs that the Scottish beef herd and sheep flock are showing signs of recovery in some parts of the country after several years of decline.

Scottish calf registration figures and a new report from SAC entitled “Response from the Hills” all suggest that, in some areas of Scotland, cow and sheep numbers have stabilised or are increasing.

Responding to falling livestock numbers in 2008, NFUS produced its own manifesto aimed at halting the decline and stopping depopulation, particularly of sheep, in some of Scotland’s more vulnerable areas.

Elements of that manifesto – continuation of the Scottish Beef Calf Scheme and a more targeted Less Favoured Areas Support Scheme - were adopted by the Scottish Government.

Although faced with significant hikes in input costs for feed, fuel and fertiliser in 2011, the returns from the marketplace for beef and sheep have also been stronger and this has had a positive impact on livestock numbers in some areas, according to SAC. Given the importance of the beef sector to Scotland, a beef calf support scheme has been in place since 2005. The Union is taking the opportunity to remind producers that a new Scottish Beef Scheme (SBS) will be introduced from 1 January 2012 to ensure a headage payment to the beef sector continues until new Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) regulations come into force. This will mean that the existing Scottish Beef Calf Scheme will come to an end on 31 December 2011.

NFU Scotland’s Livestock Policy Manager Penny Johnston said: “Scottish calf registration figures and SAC’s latest report on

the hill farming sector all point to our stock numbers stabilising and, in some areas, recovering.

Significantly improved returns from the marketplace for beef and sheep have give some more confidence, albeit that confidence is tempered by rising input costs.

“NFU Scotland’s own manifesto to stimulate the beef and sheep sectors in our hills and uplands have been a factor in the modest recovery. A more targeted LFASS linked to activity is now in place and the beef calf scheme has served an ongoing purpose in helping to encourage some producers to continue keeping beef cows.

“The new SBS will see payment rates revamped to assist smaller producers. That will be particularly welcomed in vulnerable parts where smaller herd sizes are the norm.

“Margins in livestock production remain slim and it is clear from the SAC report that growing confidence in beef and sheep production is not shared across all parts of Scotland.

There are still many areas where loss of livestock is generating a catalogue of concerns. Lower stock numbers or, in the worst case, land abandonment has huge implications for the environment and also has a massive impact on the local economy.

“We will continue to work with the supply chain to ensure fair marketplace returns.

However, the outcomes of the ongoing CAP reform talks and future support arrangements remain fundamental to livestock production in Scotland. We will look at the potential for continued coupled support to the beef sector beyond 2014 and are already planning for the negotiations on a new rural development plan for Scotland, including LFA support.

All these elements will have great significance for the future confidence of our livestock producers across the whole of Scotland

THE VET

LIVESTOCK

Carbon Hoofprints can show us the way! have to increase to keep up with an increasing world population.

That production has to be safe and secure, sustainable and profitable and in actual fact monitoring the carbon inputs will help with all of that.

So what’s the quick fix? – easy!

Remember - it’s less carbon input per kg meat or litre milk output we’re looking for.

By Andy Cant Northvet Veterinary Group Farmings relationship with the environment should, you would think, be naturally harmonious.

However the livestock sector, at least, has had some sensationalist media coverage and high profile lobbying of late, telling us we are responsible for global warming! The facts and figures need to be acknowledged but lets be positive and take the lead. Saving the planet is not about eating less meat and dairy products but using less carbon per kilo of meat or litre of milk produced – and that is a completely different matter.

Some Facts and Figures • Legislation in the UK aims to reduce 1990 green house gas (GHG) levels by 80% by 2050.

• Agriculture at present is responsible for 3% of UK GHG. • Methane and nitrous oxide are the main culprits.

• Methane is 25 times as potent a GHG as CO2.

• 43% of methane production in UK is from agricultural enteric fermentation (burps and farts to me and you!) and a cow will produce 600 litres of methane a day.

• Nitrates from fertilizer and manure release nitrous oxide gas after microbial breakdown in the soil (275 times as potent as CO2).

So the target is ambitious and livestock emissions significant.

Already supermarkets and producers are asking for CO2 audits on many of their farms as they see the need to be benchmarking the carbon footprint of the products they sell. Food production is going to

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• Increase productivity over the lifetime of the animal.

Decrease the overhead of non/low producing animals.

Increase yields, lactations, growth rates. Look at the age of heifers calving. Have longer living cows!

• Fertility of the cows is crucial. Hit targets for calving intervals (365 days for beef and, realistically, under 400 days for dairy) • Research is ongoing into starch: forage ratios in the diet – more concentrate – less methane.

• Additives to bind up hydrogen produced in the rumen to stop it turning into methane.

• Oils in diet don’t ferment, don’t produce methane • Vaccination against methogens?! Under research

So what’s all the fuss about reducing our carbon hoof print – the first two points above we should be doing anyway to run a profitable business. Its no wonder carbon measuring has been described as the business management tool of the future!

We’ve touched on herd health and production management before, it’s something we’re all doing to a certain degree and it’s the answer to critics of agricultures contribution to green house gases. Its all about getting the balance right between the health and welfare of our animals, the demands for food production and the impact that has on the environment.

So go on, keep the critics happy, take a close look at your carbon hoofprints and see where it leads you……………..££££££!!

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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

Industry approval for Block Stem security system Users of the Block Stem security system who are insured with JCB Insurance, are now eligible to receive up to 40% reduction in their premiums when it is fitted to agricultural tractors, construction plant vehicles or other self-propelled machinery.

Block Stem is marketed in the UK by Wolverhamptonbased Derwent Trading International and has received full Thatcham accreditation.

A low cost system, it is priced from just £240, complete with five year warranty and a

money back guarantee against failure.According to company director Richard Baxter, the secret of Block Stem’s success is its simplicity, its non-use of electronics, and its ability to do the job required – which is to prevent theft.

“Thieves are becoming ever more adept in their ability to overcome electronic immobiliser systems,” he says. “The Block Stem is unique in being not only a simple mechanical means of immobilising a vehicle but is also a visual deterrent.”

Keep an eye on ewes Retro-fit model of cow positioning device to and lambs with a speed milking now mobile phone-linked available video camera This lambing season, sheep farmers can keep an eye on

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expectant ewes and newborn lambs using a video camera to relay images to the farm computer and a mobile phone, following the launch of the cowCam video camera system

by Dairy Spares.

The cowCam video camera is robust, has 10m of night vision, a wide angle lens and a microphone.

There are two models of the cowCam kit, depending on the distance between the internet connection and video camera.

For short distances of less than 50m, then the cowCam Lite kit costing £217.50 (+VAT) can be used. For situations where the internet connection is further away e.g. in the house, then the original cowCam system is needed which has a range of 800m and costs £426.10 (+VAT).

Following the success of the Wetit Wave cow positioning device for new rotary platforms, Dairy Spares has launched a new Retro-fit Wetit Wave. These are screwed onto the platform, rather than bonded, allowing installation into existing parlours.

The design of the Wetit Wave forces a cow to stand centrally in the bail with feet either side

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of the wave. This ensures the cluster hangs more squarely on the udder so promoting a faster and more even milking out. Wetit Waves also aid the early detection of lameness in the back legs, and reduce a cow’s ability to kick off its cluster. Teat spraying efficiency and coverage is improved as the udder is presented in a consistent position.

FINANCE

Buying New Machinery Beware of the 5th April 2012

By Charlie Carnegie Managing Partner of Bell and Company, Chartered Accountants, Perth Most farmers who are currently contemplating purchasing new items (includes second hand goods) of Plant and Machinery will be aware that the maximum Annual Investment Allowances (AIAs) available is about to be reduced from £100,000 to £25,000 on expenditure incurred on or after 6th April 2012 (1st April 2012 for companies).

The Accounting year of many businesses shall span these dates and therefore a pro rata calculation is required to ascertain the maximum AIAs for the accounting year which is the sum of the maximum AIAs entitlement based on the £100000 annual cap for the portion of the accounting period falling before 1 or 6 April 2012 and the maximum AIA entitlement based on the new £25,000 cap for the portion of the accounting period falling after 1 or 6 April 2012.

For example many farming businesses have traditionally had the end of May as a year end therefore the maximum AIAs available for a farm with a 31st May 2012 year end is arrived at as follows : June 2011 to March 2012 – 10/12 x £100,000 = £83,333 April 2012 to May 2012 – 2/12 x £25,000 = £4,167 Maximum AIAs available £87,500 However, there is a restriction set in relation to the expenditure incurred after 1 or 6 April 2012, the maximum entitlement is given only by reference to the second part of the calculation above.

If Mr Farmer had bought a Tractor in November 2011 costing £75,000 then 100% AIAs would be available as it falls within the £87,500 maximum, however if he had held off until spring time and bought it in May 2012 then the

maximum AIAs available to him is only the £4,167.

Obviously the timing of expenditure is critical to maximising the amount of AIAs available and consideration needs to be given to ensuring that the expenditure is incurred before 1 or 6 April 2012.

Care needs to be taken in identifying the actual date expenditure was incurred. The normal rule is it is incurred on the date on which the obligation to pay becomes unconditional which is usually evidenced on the paperwork.

If an invoice states payment is due within 30 days of delivery then the obligation arises on the day of delivery.

A special rule applies to goods bought on Hire Purchase agreements where, usually all of the capital expenditure is treated as incurred up front, however if the asset is not

brought into use by the end of the Accounting period, any capital expenditure not incurred at the end of the period is deferred until the asset is actually brought into use.

Another change being made at the same time is a reduction in the WDAs on expenditure not relieved by other allowances from 20% to 18% for expenditure in the main pool of assets and from 10% to 8% on expenditure allocated to the special pool.

None of these changes are positive for farmers keen to maintain Capital investment strategies but with a bit of careful planning the rules for AIAs can be maximised over the coming months.

For further information contact 01738 632081 or charles.carnegie@ bellandcompany.co.uk

Defra fund ’good news’ for farmers

Agricultural accountants Moore Thompson have welcomed a new £20 million fund to help farmers and rural businesses increase profits and reduce their impact on the environment.

The Farming and Forestry Improvement Scheme, unveiled

by Defra, will give farmers, foresters and horticulturalists the chance to apply for grants of up to £25,000 to invest in green projects and new machinery so their businesses can grow in an environmentally friendly way.

Agriculture and forestry sector, safeguard and enhance the rural environment, foster competitive and sustainable rural businesses and thriving rural communities.

To be eligible for a grant starting from £2,500,

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applicants must show how the funding will help them improve nutrient management, energy efficiency, the health and welfare of farm animals or save, recycle or reuse rainwater.

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FINANCE

£2.9 MILLION INVESTMENT IN LAND-BASED BUSINESSES

A £2.9 million investment in the skills and professionalism of land-based and environmental businesses has been announced part of the Employer and Investment Fund (EIF) Phase 2.

This investment fund will enable Lantra, the Sector Skills Council supporting land-based and environmental industries, create and deliver three projects tailored specifically to industry needs, aimed at increasing the skills and professionalism of the sector.

The first project involves creating a land-based business centre, which will act as a one-

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stop-shop for the information and support businesses need to make sensible decisions on how to invest wisely in skills and business development.

Available as an easy-touse digital service, employers and learners will easily find a collection of sector specific information such as business planning, risk management tools and health & safety templates. This will build upon the success of Lantra’s One Stop Shop in Scotland, which averages 5,000 hits each month from businesses and individuals looking for training, while incorporating

Lantra’s other successful online solutions, such as CourseFinder, FundFinder and Skills Manager.

The second project will look at a professional standards framework, encouraging the workforce to build its level of professional standards, leadership and management skills through industry-wide professional registers. This framework will help the industry earn formal recognition for increasing their skills base while helping individuals plan their professional development.

This project is an expansion of the work that Lantra is already developing within specific agricultural sectors, as part of EIF phase 1 investment funding.

The final project is aimed at supporting land-based career entry and progression routes, which is important as research shows that 242,000 new entrants will be needed over the next decade to maintain current workforce numbers*. This project aims to help attract, train and recruit high quality entrants that are prepared to meet employer’s needs, thus increasing business profits and growth.

This project also looks at ways to help employers take ownership of the educational system, such as Apprenticeships. The landbased sector has a low take up of Apprenticeships, partially due to the high number of microbusinesses, so this project will identify opportunities to help businesses identify opportunities to benefit from Apprenticeships.

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Peter Martin, Lantra’s Chief Executive said: “These three projects are the beginning of a new way that Lantra will work to support the sector, providing solutions to help businesses take ownership of their professionalism and development. Going forward Lantra sees itself very much as a commercial skills consultancy, helping industry obtain the tools, skills and knowledge they need in order to position themselves for success and profitability.”

Valerie Owen OBE, Lantra’s Chair said: “This government investment for skills is welcome news for the land-based and environmental sector in the UK. Lantra looks forward to working with land-based businesses to help maximise their returns on investment in skills through improved productivity and profit .”

The funding was awarded through the Employer Investment Fund (EIF) Phase 2, by the UK Commission for Employment and Skills.

The EIF is intended to drive employer-led action and investment in the skills and to help develop their professional workforce. Designed to move Sector Skills Councils away from grant funding to a fully contestable funding model, EIF fund proposals must demonstrate the strongest potential for impact in terms of enterprise, jobs and growth.

To find out more about how Lantra works with industry to support skills, business development and industry professionalism, visit www. lantra.co.uk.

NWF Group Plc to seek out new business opportunities thanks to RBS Cheshire-based NWF Group Plc (NWF), a leading specialist agricultural and distribution business delivering feed, food and fuel across the UK, is to utilise a new £55m funding facility from Royal Bank of Scotland Corporate & Institutional Banking (RBS CIB) to help its organic growth and push ahead with selective acquisitions. The deal, an extension of an existing and long-term business relationship, consists of a £44m invoice discounting facility, a £10m revolving credit facility and £1m overdraft, all of which will run until October 2015.

The extra capacity comes at a time of strong market growth for NWF: the firm reported a 7% rise in profits before tax to £7.6m for the financial year 2011, off the back of a 22% rise in revenue to £464m.

The firm, headquartered near Nantwich, now employs 980 staff across its three divisions (Feeds, Food and Fuels).

NWF’s Food division, which provides specialist warehousing and consolidated distribution of ambient grocery products to UK supermarkets, has the lion’s share of staff with 590 employees. It now operates 120 trucks, 275 trailers and almost one million square feet of warehousing space concentrated in the North West. NWF’s Feeds division, the number two producer in the UK ruminant market, sold 462,000 tonnes of feed last year.

In terms of acquisitions, it is the Fuels division which has

seen the most recent activity.

At the start of the year NWF acquired Warwickshire-based Evesons Fuels, an 80m-litre depot-based fuel distribution business, and in September it bought Swan Petroleum, a 42m-litre depot-based fuel distribution business operating in the North West of England.

The later has increased NWF Fuels division’s volume by 10%, enhanced its current penetration across the North West and North Wales, and means that NWF now delivers over 470m litres of fuel annually to over 38,000 customers from 20 sites across the UK. Royal Bank of Scotland’s Manchester-based team has worked with NWF for 80 years and has supported the group throughout its growth and development.

Richard Whiting, NWF’s chief executive, said: “NWF has continued to deliver on its development plans with the Fuel division making significant acquisitions, despite the wider pressures in the UK economy. We believe there remain many opportunities to expand the Group from the strong platform established over the last three years... RBS really understands our business and the team in Manchester has been integral to our success and development. I’m delighted that this relationship is set to continue over the coming years.”

Paul Thomas, relationship director, RBS CIB, said: “It has been great to work with NWF’s management and

FINANCE

Keeping options open By Andrew Turnbull

Previously I suggested that it is more difficult in these financially constrained times to arrange (or extend) overdraft facilities and so how can farmers ensure they have room to manoeuvre when the unexpected happens?

The answer is not to have all your eggs in one basket and not to be totally reliant on any one source of funding.

When it comes to capital expenditure it may be wise to use hire purchase or leasing whereby you borrow from a finance company that take security over the asset that is being bought without impinging on other borrowings, such as a bank overdraft.

However, if you use a funder who is part of the same finance group as your bank you may find the bank will take any outstanding HP balances into account in deciding whether they are already “fully committed” to you.

It is also worth bearing in mind that standard HP and leasing agreements are on a “fixed” rate of interest. This

means that if you buy a largeticket item (such as a new tractor or combine) the rate of interest remains fixed for the whole period of the agreement and you are protected from upward movements in interest rates during that time.

Finally, a timely reminder that the 100% “Annual Investment” tax allowance will only be available on capital expenditure on implements, tractors, etc. of £25,000 per annum as from next April.

Until then the limit is £100,000 so if you have profits you want to shelter from tax, act now (but not before consulting your tax advisor!).

help the firm develop quickly and effectively into a leading competitor in all three of its divisions. The new finance facility will allow the firm to seek out new acquisitions

as well as effective organic growth, and we were happy to put the right facilities in place to allow them to do this. RBS looks forward to working with the firm in the future.”

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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

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FUTUREfarmer ABERDEENSHIRE FARMER WINS FUTURE FARMER AWARD 2011 Andrew Rennie, a well known pioneer of anaerobic digestion from the North East of Scotland, has been crowned the Future Farmer 2011.

James Ingleby, the Lord Lieutenant of Aberdeenshire, congratulated Andrew on his achievement and presented him with the trophy and a cheque for £4,000 at the Rennies’ farm, Gask near Turriff.

The Future Farmer Award is an initiative funded by the Elizabeth Murray Trust and supported by NFU Scotland.

Each year a trailblazing Scottish farmer is given £4,000 and a package of practical support to help them promote their ideas to other farmers and land managers.

The Award aims to showcase ways in which

Scotland can produce food, fibre and wood products from farms and crofts in a commercially viable way while maintaining the natural capital of the land and minimizing the ecological footprint of farming activities.

The Rennies’ farming enterprise makes use of anaerobic digestion to generate electricity to take care of all of the farm’s power needs, as well as using digestate as a replacement for inorganic fertiliser, ultimately making the farm carbon neutral.

Andrew Rennie, speaking of his win, said: Winning this award is quite a shock to be honest, but we are all absolutely delighted to have been recognised in this way.

It is important in the current

climate to drive your business forward and to make it more sustainable for the future.

Michael Williams, who runs the Future Farmer Award, said: “It never ceases to amaze us just how many high quality

entrants come forward for this award year on year. Andrew Rennie is young and forward thinking and determined that his farming enterprise should be taking care of the environment rather than taking from it.’

College wins top apprentice award Dumfries’ Barony College has received a top honour for its support for apprenticeships at Skills Development Scotland’s Modern Apprenticeship Awards.

The college was given this year’s Partnership Award

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for its work with agricultural machinery manufacturers CLAAS. It received the Award, sponsored by ATOS, at the event in Glasgow’s Science Centre.

The 10th annual Modern Apprenticeship Awards,

sponsored by HP, showcased the achievements of employers, apprentices and organisations who have demonstrated initiative, enterprise and outstanding commitment to developing Scotland’s skills and economy.

Barony’s Head of Engineering Drew Easton said the partnership offers an outstanding platform for apprentices, with common goals that included joint development of customised training, e-learning and assessment materials.

After picking up the Award, Drew said: “Hearing we had won the Award was fantastic and I am sure we will be getting a very positive reaction when the students find out. It is great because the

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driver of the whole partnership is focused on what is best for the students.”

The college’s Modern Apprenticeship programme attracts students from all over Scotland. They receive valuable practical experience on cutting edge, state of the art equipment at the college while working alongside experienced technicians in the dealerships.

Speaking at the Awards, Scotland’s newly appointed Youth Employment Minister Angela Constance said: “In my new role as Minister for Youth Employment I will be taking forward the Scottish Government’s commitment that every 16-19 gets a place in college or training through Opportunities for All.

MACHINERY

The ever popular BOMFORD HAWK arm mower has been brought in line with the latest EVO design.

The new HAWK EVO is available in three reaches – 5.4m; 6.0m and 6.5m, plus there is the option of parallel geometry and 5.4m and 6.0m forward arm versions. Designed for use with tractors of 65hp and above and with a minimum weight of just 3000kg, the new Hawk Evo is ideal for farmers, smaller contractors and amenity use.

The new striking design includes distinctive rear decals and the use of LED rear lights in order to help draw drivers’ attention to the machine.

The Hawk Evo features an independent 60hp, 100 litres/

New HAWK goes Evo

minute hydraulic system, powered by twin gear-driven pumps, plus there is the option to upgrade to a more powerful 125l/m hydraulic system. The new Hawk range is oil cooled

as standard when proportional controls are specified.

All three versions of the Hawk Evo can be specified with Bomford Pro-Trim flail cutting heads with working widths of

1.2m or 1.5m, or for thicker vegetation they are also suitable for use with the new ProSaw blade head, which is available in working widths from 1.6m up to 2.4m.

New Rollspeed range from Rolland

The new Rollspeed is extraordinarily robust, simple and cost effective to run, and most importantly safe to use.

There are 8 models in the range starting with the RS 5327 (the first two numbers indicate body length and the second two cubic capacity with extension sides.) The largest is the huge triaxle RS 8844 which carries 24t of grain.

Standard features on all models are the wide chassis with

two channel sections welded face to face giving huge resistance and elasticity, an integrated hydraulic door with side panels cleverly built into the top reinforcing rail which gives rigidity as well as safety in small buildings and crossing trailers. State if the art suspensions are available whether it be standard commercial axles or hydraulic suspension, also a hydraulic draw bar is offered at a cost of £650. A reinforced top rail adds strength to the body and

a large front window offers great visibility into the trailer. Coupled with Rolland’s unique paint process in the trailer industry

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where shotblasting, phosphating, electroplating and powder coating are all standard features offered with the new Rollspeed range.

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MACHINERY

Hi-Spec launch new Bale Strip

Hi-Spec Engineering will be displaying for the first time the new Hi-Spec Bale Strip bale handler at this year’s LAMMA show.

The new Bale Strip enables one person to quickly and efficiently remove film and netwrap from round silage bales, but then also break-up the bale in order to reduce mixing time when using a complete diet feeder, or for ease of feeding into feed rings or along feed passages.

The new Hi-Spec Bale Strip comprises of two bale spikes,

plus a unique claw arm that is mounted on the top of the handler, and this is then used in combination with a knife that is mounted on the feed wagon, or a ground mounted version is also available where silage bales are simply fed into feed rings or against barriers.

In operation, the operator simply lifts the wrapped bale, keeping the spikes near the bottom of the bale. To strip and break up the bale, the bale is initially lowered onto and passed over the static knife in order to perforate the film and netwrap.

New combines from Case IH have more power and capacity

Case IH has unveiled its latest range of Axial-Flow combines.

As before, two three-model series will offer customers a wide choice of power and capacity and build upon the Axial-Flow combines’ proven ease of use and reliability. The new Axial-Flow models meet the latest Tier 4 emissions 44

regulations and Case IH has taken the opportunity to make significant enhancements to the two series including new engines, front tracks and enhanced grain tank auger control.

The Series 130, which replaces the 88 Series, sees rated power increase to 353hp for the

7130 with an additional 34hp boost available for unloading.

The Series 230 succeeds the 20 Series and is topped by a new flagship, the Axial-Flow 9230, which has up to 571hp on tap to ensure that maximum performance is always available.

All six models feature increased power but the Series

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130 also benefits from a new Fiat Powertrain Technology (FPT) engine that offers better performance and lower emissions, and has seen proven service in the latest Puma, Magnum and Steiger/Quadtrac tractors.

The Series 230 is now available with a choice of specially developed tracks or tyres. The new rubber tracks are available in 61cm (24”) or 76cm (30”) widths and give an overall machine width of 3.48m and 3.8m respectively.

The flagship Axial-Flow 9230 has a new grain tank with an unloading rate of 157 litres per second. The high capacity tank features two cross tank augers that can now be controlled independently of the vertical and unloading augers.

The separate mechanical drives enable the cross tank augers to be disengaged and the unloading auger emptied to reduce its weight and the transmission loading at startup.

MACHINERY

Red hot Kawasaki ATV beats UK winter blues

D & A FACTORS (DUNDEE) LTD. Suppliers of

As the frosty fingers of winter gradually tighten their grasp, many famers and smallholding owners – as well as equestrian businesses – are preparing for the worst that the unpredictable UK weather can throw at them.

Although seemingly spoilt for choice at the entry level end of the market, good small capacity ATVs are still hard to come by. Adding a welcome element of choice - and one of the most competitive entry level specifications currently available – Kawasaki has just launched the KVF300, a single cylinder, water-cooled machine packed with user friendly features.

Complete with CVT transmission and disc braking front and rear, the smallest KVF in the Kawasaki ATV range is generating huge interest and bringing new people to the Japanese brand, as Kawasaki’s Product Manager for ATV and

MULE products in the UK, Simon Riches, explains: “Whether replacing a tired and well-worn vehicle during fiscally challenging times, or looking to buy their first ever machine, many customers are looking for a vehicle that can genuinely be used day in, day out while offering the practicality and convenience that only a work focused ATV can offer.

With lambing season just around the corner, the KVF300 is potentially going to be at the top of many wish lists when the less durable and less highly specified machines are considered and discarded. Things like a handlebar lever activated parking brake that operates independently of the hydraulic system and a chassis and suspension package tuned for the most demanding off-road working user set this entry level machine apart from its competitors.

Kelvin Cave Ltd. is a UK market leader in the development and supply of home grown feed preservation systems, specialising in crimped and moist grain preservatives, processing machinery and silage treatments.

The KC SilaPactor, at 3m wide and weighing 4,000kg with 11 individual roller rings, can increase dry matter compaction

density by up to 40% when compared to conventional tractor rolling. Compacting efficiently across its full 3m width results in lower fuel consumption and less time needed to compact a clamp.

The innovative KC SilaPactor complements the Kelvin Cave range of silage preservatives and ClampFilm™ by increasing dry matter retention and aerobic stability at feed out.

The Kelvin Cave SilaPactor

AGRICULTURAL and TRACTOR COMPONENTS ALL PLOUGH METALS AVAILABLE Hours of Business: Monday-Thursday 8am - 6pm Friday 8am - 5.30pm; Saturday 8am - 2pm Sunday 9am - 2pm (Dundee only)

2 West Hendersons Wynd, Dundee DD1 5BT

Tel. (01382) 228202/5 Fax. (01382) 223322 Queenswell Road, Forfar Tel. (01307) 464914 Fax. (01307) 464915 13 Baltic Street, Montrose Tel. (01674) 676260 Fax. (01674) 678955 Unit 7, Whitefriars, Perth Tel. (01738) 636409 Fax. (01738) 636400 Eastfield Ind. Est., Glenrothes Tel: (01592) 770180 Fax: (01592) 770181

email: scott@dafactors.co.uk 46

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MACHINERY

Horsch Terrano MT – Shallow mixing and deep loosening

The Horsch Terrano MT is a cultivator specifically designed to ‘mix on top and loosen at the bottom’, a combination that makes it ideal for UK farming operations.

Available in 4m and 6m working widths, the Terrano MT has a 4-bar design with a middle chassis. The first two rows house the 520mm rotary harrow discs followed by two rows of TerraGrip tines with narrow low disturbance points. The Terrano MT is particularly suitable for the cultivation of heavy soils that have to be loosened deeply, but where harvest residues can only be incorporated in a very shallow manner to avoid coarse soil being transported to the surface.

The two-row DiscSystem allows for a shallow and intensively mixing cultivation

and blockage-free operation, even with difficult residues and high quantities of straw. The

DiscSystem produces a lot of fine soil and the working depth can be adjusted hydraulically.

...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

New Keenan Mech-fiber®Bale Handling System

Keenan has developed and refined the Keenan Bale Handling system - a processing system which is not only quick, efficient and effective, but is also a complete system in that it caters for those who use only small quantities of baled material and also for those who regularly use high numbers of bales.

When relatively small amounts of say, straw are required the mixer wagon can chop it to the optimum length using blades set on the side of the mixing chamber. As the paddles rotate their castellated ends push the straw across the blades and reduce its length accordingly.

But when whole bales of straw, hay or silage are used Keenan now has the Baleblender system - a unit which can be specified on new machines or retro fitted to existing mixer wagons, and allows the speedy processing of whole bales – whether they be round or square.

The Baleblender comprises a series of hinged metal bars which span the open top of the mixing chamber to provide a cradle to support the bale.

These now have a deeper curve which not only hold the bale more securely but also exposes more of the bale to the paddles.

Same Deutz-Fahr celebrates its millionth tractor

In November, a SAME Frutteto3 S 90.3 Hi-Steer rolled off the production line in Treviglio to become the millionth tractor to be produced since 1927. This was the year when Francesco Cassani and his brother Eugenio introduced the Cassani tractor – one of the first tractors in the world to be powered by a diesel engine.

The introduction marked the birth of an Italian company which, in 2012, will celebrate its 85th anniversary – 85 years

Please contact one of our available salesmen for further details: Branch Manager: Mike Ritchie 07595 207355 Sales: Graeme Gauld 07894 612036 Colin Duncan 07912 513109 Doug Buchanan 07977 280712 Parts: Steven Henry 07590 452551 Service Manager: Ronnie Davies 07886 565164

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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of continuous growth which has seen expansion of production facilities, brand acquisitions, machines produced and human resources.

SAME Deutz-Fahr produces and markets agricultural machinery and tractors under the brand names of SAME, DeutzFahr, Lamborghini, Hurlimann and Gregoire, the latter being a leading manufacturer of grape harvesters and vineyard machinery which was acquired by the Group in September 2011.

MACHINERY

New 9R and 9RT Series tractors from John Deere Designed for heavy-duty, largescale field operations, John Deere’s new 9R and 9RT Series tractors from 410 to 560hp (maximum 451 to 616hp, to 97/68/ EC rating) are the most powerful, productive and comfortable fourwheel drive tractors the company has ever built.

Available for 2012, the new 9R and 9RT Series line-up consists of four wheeled tractors and three tracked versions, and replaces the 9030 Series which was introduced in 2007.

These new tractors feature the latest improvements in power, hydraulics, hitch and pto options, as well as cab comfort and controls. This means more horsepower, more integrated intelligent solutions such as AutoTrac and JDLink, and improved high-flow hydraulics and pto options.

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MACHINERY GRIMME LAUNCHES ITS FIRST HYDRAULIC FOLDING ROTA TILLA WITH RIDGING BODY

Page Turner’s

BOOK REVIEW Why Me? The Very Important Emails of Bob Servant

By Neil Forsyth

Grimme UK has launched a new two piece hydraulic folding Rota Tilla with ridging body for three bed operations, which will be available in limited numbers for spring 2012 and will cost less than £30,000.

The RT540-2 has a 5.4m working width but easily folds to a road legal width without the operator having to leave the tractor cab. Incorporating the ridging body in the hydraulic movement makes the Rota Tilla a one piece machine.

RT450-2 has a three speed gearbox to the rotors, which gives the flexibility to operate in almost all soil types. Being designed with gears rather than chains improves reliability and reduces wear and tear.

An optional extra on the RT450-2 is a heavy duty Rota that includes shear bolt protection bodies, and is designed for tilling directly into plough land. This upgrade only costs £750-£1000 which makes this system a costeffective one pass operation.

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE RONNIE DAVIES NEW ROLE AT NESS PLANT FOR RONNIE DAVIES Ronnie Davies has taken over the service manager role for Ness plant after being with the company since 2009.

He is based At Ness Plant’s Kinross depot but is also in charge of their Brechin depot.

Ronnie’s direct contact number 07886 565164.

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It’s a fact of modern life that if you’ve ever tangled with email you’ll have been sent spam.

Not the violently pink meat product in a can, but the offer of everything from Rolex watches and Viagra to millions of pounds or the hearts of beautiful young ladies. And all just a click away. Most of it is just plain annoying – the electronic equivalent of junk mail through your letterbox – but it can become nasty and result in financial loss and heartache if taken seriously.

Luckily for everyone, there is a man willing to take on the email spammers at their own game. He’s a sort of superhero for our times. But most importantly he’s just very, very funny.

The comic creation of journalist Neil Forsyth, Bob Servant is a sixty-four-yearold, semi-retired resident of Broughty Ferry having previously worked as a merchant sailor, window cleaner and burger magnate among other occupations. He now describes himself as ‘an unemployed gigolo’ but, having won a computer in a raffle, spends much of his time replying to real-life email spammers. In his first volume of adventures, Delete This at

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Your Peril he courted love from Russia, tried to strike a deal for a talking lion whilst becoming a patron of the arts and set the Senegalese Gendarmeries on international swindler Jerren Jimjams.

In Why Me? The Very Important Emails of Bob Servant he’s feeling the pinch with the credit crunch but luckily for Bob – and hilariously for us - there are false lenders and fake lawyers just dying to help him out through the medium of email spam. There’s even the odd gender-confused American soldier with tips for Bob’s campaign against the local bowling club mafia.

Why Me? The Very Important Emails of Bob Servant by Neil Forsyth Birlinn 978 085790 093 7 £6.99 pbk (also as an eBook) Also available, Delete This at Your Peril (978 1 84158 919 0, £6.99) and Bob Servant: Hero of Dundee (978 1 84158 920 6, £6.99) 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