Farming Scotland Magazine (March-April 2023 Edition)

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

Balers and Baling

Sprayers Seeds & seeding

In Focus

25 years of Yamaha Grizzly ATV’s

New to Market

Vogelsang launches umbilical option to their popular trailing system

Advertorial

Which irrigation system gives the best results in all conditions?

By Anthony Hopkins, Wroot Water Ltd.

£3.75

Articles

Scotland’s changing landscape

The benefits of muirburn

Yara’s 2022 trial results

Green turf care

Travel Scotland

Discovering Dundee!

Women in Agriculture

Visit to Whitriggs Farm, Borders

Book Serialisation

Part 2: Regeneration

“The rescue of a wild land” plus

Ffermio Cymru • Beatha an Eilean

The Northern Isles • Scottish Country Life Farmhouse Kitchen • Flavour of Scotland including our regular news areas and columns

Tuathanachas Alba

editor's bit

The comeback of the ration book?

While in production of this issue of our magazine, I could believe my ears at the news of vegetable rationing in some supermarkets.

And to add insult to injury, I watched on as we were being told that the UK might have to import around 70% of our veg requirements in the near future!

As you may know, I am no farmer, but what the hell is being done to our farmers by those in power in the ivory towers of ‘that London?’. (To paraphrase my Liverpool friends).

Soon there will be a black market in tumpshies (neeps) for our annual Burns Nights, and before you know it, there will be Veggie Speakeasys you can visit down dark alleyways – “Psst, do you anything locally produced?”….before the Rozzers catch ya!

Even watching Rick Stein on the TV opens ones’ eyes to how farmers are being treated as almost expendable by our UK Government, who do lord it over the devolved nations, despite what they say!

Supporting farmers and Eating Local Food must become a biggest clarion call ever, from our farming industry. Shout loud or die, what a horrendous future that would be.

Finally, I am personally shocked at the prospect of vegetable being rationed, after all, the last time I tuned in to watch PMQ’s in Westminster, there were hundreds of them!

Slàinte, Athole.

Stem Health brings yield security to UK oilseed rape crops

Stem Health offers a measurable and tangible level of stem-based disease resistances to help oilseed rape varieties maintain green healthy stems for longer – enabling the crop to reach its full genetic yield potential.

Launched by breeders Limagrain UK, on the back of their well established and very successful trait-loaded hybrid breeding programme, this attribute covers the three main stem-based diseases of OSRphoma, Cylindrosporium (Light leaf spot) and verticillium.

“To date, there has been no valuable way of assessing a variety’s tolerance to the three most common stem based diseases in a quantifiable way –and this is what we have set out to do with the launch of ‘Stem Health’,” says Liam Wilkinson, arable technical officer for Limagrain.

“For a Limagrain variety to hold the Stem Health tag it has to offer high levels of disease resistance to all three diseases – one single weakness leads to exclusion from the Stem Health list, or the right to carry the Stem Health claim.”

He believes the addition of this characteristic to the Limagrain programme brings

another level of genetic security to help mitigate as much risk as possible to an already risky crop.

“Stem health is generally an area that is often overlooked

but can have a serious impact on gross output. However by having healthy green stems longer into the growing season we often see higher yields and oil content,” he notes.

Blackcurrant breakthroughs breed scientific success for Ribena

Scientists at the James Hutton Institute (JHI) are playing a critical role in helping farmers to develop more resilient and sustainable blackcurrant crops.

The second in a new series of case studies, developed as part of the RHASS Presidential Initiative (PI), will look at how the JHI is working alongside

farmers to trial new plant varieties to withstand future climate pressures.

The JHI runs the world’s leading blackcurrant breeding

and research programme and has been conducting research for Ribena - which purchases around 90% of Britain’s blackcurrant crop annually - since the 1980s.

Blackcurrants need cold winters to thrive, however climate change has resulted in increasingly warm British winters.

Scientists at the JHI have developed a practical solution by breeding a new variety of blackcurrant called Ben Lawers, which can thrive in warmer winters, helping farmers overcome a major sustainability challenge.

Head of James Hutton Ltd, Dr Jonathan Snape, has been working with generations of blackcurrant farming families, to breed new varieties that can cope with climate change.

“Farmers across the UK produce around 10,000 tonnes of blackcurrants for Ribena each year. The drink uses a blend of blackcurrant varieties and

virtually 100% of the varieties in the blend were bred by us.

“Our Ribena work is one of most enduring commercial and scientific partnerships and one of the largest crop study programmes.”

Andrew Husband, who farms at East Adamston, by Dundee, is one of only four blackcurrant suppliers for Ribena in Scotland. He explained that through working closely with scientists at the JHI and taking part in field trials, he has been able to safeguard his future business and give confidence to the next generation.

“Without research and investment in science, we would be going backwards as an industry, given the challenges which are presented by climate change,” he said.

For more information on this year’s Initiative and to access future case studies, please visit: https://rhass.org.uk/ presidential-initiative/ .

Biostimulants protect crops from climatic stressors

Biostimulants can act as an insurance policy for growers this spring, especially as another wave of frosts threatens to knock crops back.

So far, winter has been wet and with the exception of some sharp frosts, relatively mild – resulting in many autumn sown crops being further forward than usual.

However, David Newton, Timac Agro technical manager, is warning that this will not protect them from being damaged during cold spells which are likely to hit.

He says frosts could be detrimental for crops that are further forward in the growing season. “Frost susceptibility

usually increases with lush growth, especially when there have been above average autumn/winter temperatures”.

“This can cause yield and quality loss in cereals, which is why applying a foliar biostimulant, such as Fertiactyl, will help mitigate against frost damage by ensuring increased

root development, tillering and recovery from stress events.”

If crops can develop a robust root system, this encourages the uptake and mobilisation of nutrients, increasing their resilience and ability to bounce back from climatic stressors.

“You want to limit the number of times your crop is

knocked back in a season,” says Mr Newton.

“Every challenge your crop faces, the more it chips away at the potential yield – so whether it’s a substandard seed bed resulting in poor emergence, pest or disease pressures, or weather conditions – it all starts to add up.”

Discovery Fellowship for research into new ways to protect wheat crops from rising temperatures

A scientist from the University of Nottingham has been given half a million pounds funding for her research examining novel ways the wheat flower can tolerate rising climate temperatures.

Plant Physiologist, Dr Lorna McAusland from the School of Biosciences has been awarded a BBSRC Discovery Fellowship to develop techniques to uncover crucial characteristics which enable crops to survive high temperatures. In particular, the role non-foliar structures play in contributing to heat tolerance.

While the majority of our understanding about carbon capture comes from the leaves, non-foliar structures, such as the stems, fruits and flowers, offer an exciting, unexplored source of

variation for how plants capture carbon in the face of rising global temperatures. The diversity of shapes and responses to heat will provide vital information on how to protect our crops from climate change; in particular wheat.

Wheat is the world’s most grown crop plant, with all grain originating from the flower or ‘spike’. At the top of the canopy, the spike is exposed to the extremes of heat and light. High temperatures - the result of heatwaves brought about by global warming - damage key photosynthetic processes that reduce the duration of spike carbon capture from the air, leading to severe decreases in grain yield.

Through the development of a custom imaging platform, sophisticated growth facilities

and utilising

3D computed tomography, Lorna aims to address the lack

cutting-edge

of fundamental knowledge surrounding carbon capture in the wheat spike.

Potato growers: Plan blight control to reduce resistance risk

Total control failure in potato blight management product, mandipropamid (Revus) was confirmed in Europe back in December, meaning British growers must plan an antiresistance strategy.

While the resistant blight genotype (EU43) is yet to be identified on British shores, UK farmers must act to protect potato crops, says Geoff Hailstone, potato lead at UPL UK. “Blight strains that start in Europe inevitably make their way over here. So, farmers need to plan their blight control programmes carefully.”

Aarhus University, Denmark and leading agri-chemical companies confirmed the resistance in a joint study. “It

is essential that all growers, regardless of varietal choice and fungicide programme, plan an anti-resistance strategy against potato blight,” says a spokesperson for the University. While a concern, blight resistance to fungicidal products is not a novel situation for UK growers, and lessons of the past have been learnt, says Mr Hailstone. “As a result of previous fungicide resistance issues, the UK has a robust blight monitoring program and a responsible approach to control. British producers still have plenty of options to choose from, but solo product applications must be avoided.”

Instead, growers should consult their agronomists about product mixing, he adds. “The

advice should be to mix blight control products with at least one active ingredient from

another group. And with each application, mixes need to be alternated.”

Scientists discover potato varieties resistant to pests

The findings of a groundbreaking farm trial investigating potato varieties resistant to cropdestroying potato cyst nematodes (PCN) were revealed last week at the James Hutton Institute (JHI) in Invergowrie.

The PCN Action Scotland Winter Conference welcomed delegates from the Scottish farming community and shared updates from a 2022 trial to tackle the threat of the major potato pests.

Thanks to scientists from JHI, SoilEssentials, Scottish Agronomy, SRUC and SASA working collaboratively on this Scottish Government-funded project, new varieties of potato have been shown to be both

highly resistant to PCN, and suitable for growth in Scotland’s climate.

Dr. Philip Burgess, Scottishpotatoes.org (a JHI and SRUC partnership) lead, said, “Although we are already aware

arable & root crops

of potato varieties that do not allow PCN to multiply as they are resistant to infection, they can still cause significant yield losses as despite the resistance, the root systems can still be eaten away by the pests. Therefore, farmers are experiencing reduced yields or are reliant on a PCN pesticide (nematicides) which may not be available in the future.

“What we need are potato varieties with both resistance and high levels of tolerance to the pest, and this is what we found in the field trial.”

During the trial, some potato varieties were discovered to not only stop the multiplication of PCN, but also grow well under high pest pressure, leading to a more sustainable rotation. As well as this vital finding, the varieties are suitable for production in Scotland’s climate and are consumer friendly.

Dr Burgess added, “It is really pleasing to note that some

of these varieties are now being stocked by major retailers and we hope others will follow suit soon.

“This is a critical issue at a time when potato growers are under increasing pressure to deliver sustainable and resilient production, using fewer pesticides. The globally recognised Scottish seed sector is reliant upon land free from PCN. These new varieties are an important part of delivering a sustainable solution to these issues. The climate, nature crisis and insecurities we see in food, water and energy are all interlinked.

“Our goal is to deliver potato crops with resistance and tolerance to PCN, to ensure a sustainable seed potato sector in Scotland and thereby deliver food security without damaging nature or forcing more climate change.” More information about the findings of the farm trial can be found at pcnhub.ac.uk

& root crops

Tong appointed UK distributor for Verbruggen palletising solutions

Tong Engineering, leading UK vegetable handling equipment manufacturer, is pleased to announce its appointment as UK distributor for Dutch palletising solutions manufacturer Verbruggen.

The announcement comes in line with Tong’s commitment to supplying vegetable growers and processors with the complete handling solution from postharvest to pack, adding advanced end of line box and bag palletising systems to its high-quality range of equipment.

“Like Tong, Verbruggen is a family business who are committed to manufacturing innovative, custom-built handling solutions that save labour and maximise throughput,” says Simon Lee, Sales Director at Tong Engineering. “Verbruggen is renowned for manufacturing first-class palletising and stacking solutions with excellent product support. We have successfully collaborated on a number of projects with Verbruggen in the past, so we are experienced in the capabilities of their machines and are delighted that we can now officially offer their range of palletisers to the UK agricultural industry.”

Manufactured to ensure quick, efficient and uniform stacking of bags, boxes and crates on pallets or sheets, Verbruggen palletisers offer precise product stacking capabilities at any speed, resulting in a palletiser for every throughput. With various automatic and semiautomatic options, a Verbruggen palletising system not only brings a significant reduction in labour costs and downtime, but also utilises loading space in the most efficient way. In addition to its comprehensive palletiser range, Verbruggen solutions also include wrapping machines, strapping machines and check weighers, all of which will be part of Tong’s offering as UK distributor.

“Verbruggen palletisers are very versatile with options to handle both bags and boxes, as well as the ability to handle any product that needs to be stacked, from potatoes and onions to carrots, parsnips and more,” says Simon. “In synergy with our experience in handling all types of vegetables, this makes Verbruggen solutions the ideal end of line product to add to our range, which can be supplied as a stand-alone system, or fully integrated within a Tong turnkey handling line.”

Syngenta advice to protect blight fungicide efficacy

Reports of a single strain blight pathogen in Denmark where some samples were shown to be resistant to the highly important CAA group of blight fungicides, has reinforced advice for growers and agronomists to prevent it occurring in the UK.

The strain, EU_43_A1, had been identified in Denmark for the past four seasons, but never identified among the multitude of blight clones that make up the population in the UK.

Research has shown that not all EU_43_A1 are resistant to the CAA fungicide group, however five outlier isolates in Denmark had been identified as resistant last season. Sensitivity monitoring programmes of the anti-resistance action group (FRAC) in 2022 showed ‘generally a full sensitive picture for CAAs over Europe, with a few suspicious isolates under further investigation’.

European research has shown that the gene mutation associated with CAA resistance is only observed in homozygous strains of pathogens, and is therefore a recessive trait in any sexual reproduction creation of new blight clones – which significantly reduces the risk of further resistant strains developing.

In previous reports the James Hutton Institute has highlighted how difficult it is for blight pathogens to make the transition to the UK against prevailing winds.

Syngenta Technical Manager, Andy Cunningham, advised; “Revus (mandipropamid) remains as effective against the UK blight population as has always been the case. The key challenge continues to be to assure that the CAA chemistry group efficacy can be protected as an essential tool for growers.”

He reported Syngenta’s dedicated European trial protocols, in the presence of high disease pressure and CAA resistant strains, had shown using mandipropamid in mixtures with alternative modes of action had always delivered effective control of the disease. Furthermore, the strategy reduced the level of resistance in the blight population.

The research demonstrated that adding a mixture partner was the most effective strategy, along with alternating sprays with different modes of action that was also a useful additional tool. The work also demonstrated that simply raising the dose of CAA fungicide or increasing the number of sprays would prove counterproductive, thus increasing selection and the incidence of a resistant strain.

Greenvale teams up with Trinity AgTech to boost sustainability and carbon credentials for potato growers

Leading potato supplier Greenvale AP Ltd has partnered with Trinity AgTech to roll out Trinity’s natural capital navigator, Sandy, to farms across the country, supporting them in credibly and confidently analysing and reaching their environmental targets.

Joann Reid, Technical Director at Greenvale, explains that the business is looking to update their environmental strategy by identifying areas for carbon reduction before setting ambitious but achievable new targets.

“As a leading supplier of fresh potatoes and the UK’s largest

supplier of organic potatoes, we are actively building a strategy to deliver against a growing demand for more sustainable produce. We want to fulfil consumer and supply chain demands for sustainable, low carbon produce, so we’ve been looking for the right partner to work with that helps us meet these needs,” she says.

To do this, robust analytics based on the right science and methods are required to understand where Greenvale and its growers currently sit in terms of their natural capital and carbon footprint, and what the best options are for the future.

“The nature of growing potatoes currently involves relatively high carbon outputs. But, gathering rigorous analytics through Sandy will allow us to set ambitious, yet achievable goals to credibly reduce our carbon outputs, and convey them with integrity,” says Ms Reid.

Ms Reid explains that, due to its analytical integrity, Sandy was the obvious solution to partner with to strengthen the business resilience of their farmers and grower network.

“We haven’t come across another natural capital navigator which offered the breadth that Sandy offers,” she adds.

“The long-term aim of this new partnership is to create financial, environmental, and social resilience for Greenvale growers by capturing scientific data and analysis which growers can use to accurately pinpoint areas of opportunity.”

Power-up disease control to protect cereal returns

Despite a recent dip in cereal prices, the value of 2023’s harvest is predicted to remain relatively buoyant compared to previous years. It will therefore pay to ensure crops are properly protected against diseases this spring. That’s the advice from ADAMA’s fungicide technical specialist, Andy Bailey, who believes growers can powerup their disease programmes cheaply and effectively with the addition of folpet.

“The ongoing effects of the war in Ukraine and global factors including exchange rate fluctuations and volatile weather patterns means many in the industry are expecting cereal prices to remain relatively buoyant, at least for the short-term,” Mr Bailey explains. “Growers should therefore ensure their crops are properly protected this spring, not only to safeguard yields, but also to ensure they achieve the quality needed for milling bonuses and malting premiums.”

Mr Bailey recommends a balanced approach to crop protection, with the use of cultural and integrated disease control tactics used alongside chemical measures: “Key cereal diseases such as septoria and rusts in wheat and ramularia and rhynchosporium in barley can be difficult and costly to control,” he explains, “especially as the erosion of the efficacy of many single site active ingredients means these fungicides will struggle to provide effective curative action once diseases have taken hold.

RSABI and Former Royal Marines Launch Pioneering Mental Health Initiative

RSABI are rolling out a pioneering mental health first aid training initiative for the agricultural sector, working with former Royal Marines.

The aim is to provide individuals with the knowledge to recognise a range of mental health conditions and know how to provide practical support for a person presenting with a mental health condition.

The free training will help participants to develop the skills to start a conversation and to be able to direct people to appropriate professional help. The skills learned will also help those who take part understand more about their own mental health.

The initiative is aimed at organisations and individuals who work regularly in the front line with farmers and crofters, including those involved in assessments or inspections, consultants and advisers.

The training is being delivered in a new partnership between RSABI, the charity which supports people in Scottish agriculture, and IED Training Solutions Ltd, an award-winning consultancy founded by former Royal Marines.

Carol McLaren, Chief Executive of RSABI, said the innovative training could make a significant difference in the Scottish agricultural community.

“There are many synergies between the Royal Marines and farming – from working in all weathers and challenging terrain to antisocial hours, time away from family and public scrutiny,” said Ms McLaren.

“This initiative comes at a time when there are some really encouraging green shoots of change as farmers and others working in agriculture become more open

about talking about mental health and the steps needed to maintain and improve it.”

Those interested in finding out more about the new mental health first aid training, including a video interview with Major Hugh Jones who is leading on the delivery of the training, should visit www. rsabi.org.uk to find out more or email mentalhealthtraining@ rsabi.org.uk to register interest.

From left to right: RSABI Trustee David Leggat, RSABI Chief Executive Carol McLaren, Hugh Jones from IED Training Solutions Ltd.

For peat’s sake - protect our natural environment

February is the Month of Muirburn, with an insightful film and social media campaign from Scotland’s Regional Moorland Groups and the Scottish Gamekeepers’ Association highlighting the importance of muirburn to support carbon capture, boost biodiversity and reduce wildfire risk on peatland.

Experts including international wildfire adviser Marc Castellnou, Associate Professor Dr Andreas Heinemeyer of the Stockholm Environment Institute at the University of York, Professor Rob Marrs of the University of Liverpool and Bruce Farquharson of SFRS have added their voices to the campaign.

Lianne MacLennan, National Campaigns Manager for Scotland’s Regional Moorland Groups, said:

“There is now a significant body of evidence supporting the view of land managers that muirburn is an essential tool in the uplands - reducing the risk of wildfire, creating ideal habitat for a range of species and promoting a better diversity of vegetation.

“In areas where muirburn has not been carried out, we see the vast and devastating wildfires that have released thousands of tonnes of carbon and destroyed thousands of acres of habitat. We cannot allow these devastating incidents to continue.

“By reducing the risk of wildfire, muirburn protects our precious peatlands and also enables effective carbon storage and higher water tables in the long-term. It is crucial to allow the most effective land management

approach to conserve and protect these important landscapes.”

Peatland is estimated to cover around 23 percent of the land area of Scotland and, when healthy, stores and sequesters carbon while providing an important habitat for rare species from ground-nesting birds to mountain hares, insects and plants.

Muirburn helps protect this environment and creates a mosaic of vegetation of different lengths that is preferred by rare bird species such as golden plover, lapwing and curlew.

Scottish Gamekeepers’Association Chairman, Alex Hogg MBE, said: “These films are instructive, clear and enjoyable. They also come at a time when newly published University of York research is providing fresh insights about muirburn and peatlands over the longer term. Much of what has been written about muirburn has come from short term studies and is equivocal. Scottish Government need to look at these new findings - and these films - which help shed new light on the complexities.”

Researchers at the University of York, led by Dr Andreas Heinemeyer, are conducting a 20-year-long study into the management of heather-dominated peatland at the request of Natural England and DEFRA.

The project compares the effects of muirburn with mowing, or leaving heather unmanaged. The main findings at the half-way point of the study are as follows:

• burnt plots had the highest net carbon absorption in the longterm, becoming carbon sinks within 5-7 years;

• mown and unmanaged plots both absorbed about half the carbon per year of burnt plots;

• unmanaged plots released by far the most methane;

• burning, in particular, was good for nutrient content for grazing animals, likely due to the fertilization that ash provides;

• unmanaged heather dried out the underlying peat and increased risk of wildfire, with the potential of triggering ‘catastrophic’ carbon loss as well as the destruction of wildlife and habitat.

Controlled burning takes place in cycles of up to 20 years, with small patches burnt at different times then left to regenerate. This creates the patchwork hill sides we see around Scotland, providing food and shelter for game and moorland birds, helping boost the wild populations.

Muirburn helps prevent wildfires and reduce their impact by creating natural fire breaks

and reducing the mass of dry vegetation which would otherwise burn in a wildfire.

Unlike muirburn, wildfires generate high temperatures and set the peat itself alight, destroying habitat for moorland species and releasing the carbon stored in the ground.

The vast wildfires in Moray and at Forsinard, both landholdings where there is no controlled burning, between them released almost a million tonnes of CO2 equivalent into the atmosphere.

The extensive wildfire between Strathy and Melvich in 2019 required the combined effort of five fire crews and a helicopter and resulted in power cuts to properties in the area.

A code regulating muirburn in Scotland has been in place since 1424 but the revised Muirburn Code published in 2017 is a comprehensive document setting out all aspects to be considered when using fire or cutting on moorland.

Wildfire experts, scientists and the Scottish Fire & Rescue Service (SFRS) have joined forces with land managers to spell out the importance of muirburn as a conservation tool to protect Scotland’s precious peatland.

Mackie’s scoops record UK market share

Pivotal year sees green credentials boosted amid investment for the future

Celebrated ice cream maker Mackie’s of Scotland has achieved its highest ever UK market share after adding almost half a million customers across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The major breakthrough came despite a tough time in the ice cream sector, as the overall market contracted by 7.4% over the same period.

Record increases in the cost of ingredients, haulage, feed and fertiliser have combined to make the outlook a challenging and unpredictable one for Scotland’s most popular ice cream company.

Mackie’s says the growth of UK customers outwith its traditional Scottish market and its early adoption of renewable energy has helped it offset rising cost pressures and to build for the future.

Kantar Worldpanel reported that the ice cream maker’s customer numbers in England, Wales and Northern Ireland climbed from 939,000 in 2021 to 1,424,000 in 2022.

Mac Mackie, Executive Chairman and one of three family owners at Mackie’s, said: “We are putting in place the foundations to be a bigger business and one that is even better equipped for growth in the years ahead.

“It’s been a pivotal year in our history. We witnessed this encouraging step change in our sales and cut-through south of the border, predominantly as a result of us winning and building on second-line listings for our honeycomb ice cream with a number of supermarkets, including Sainsbury’s.

“For a long time, it’s been the case that our Scottish customers have been able to choose from a wide range of our ice cream flavours, but those in the rest of the UK could typically only reliably get their hands on our best-selling Traditional flavoured real dairy ice cream. We’re thrilled to be reaching new customers and determined to build on the success of these new listings.

“It’s also been a very difficult year due to the scale of the cost increases we have been subject to. While this looks set to continue and worsen, we have robust plans in place to ensure the family business rides out the storm and is here to be successful for generations to come.”

The Aberdeenshire firm posted revenue of £17.7 million and profit before tax of £1.7 million according to annual accounts to the year ending 31 May 2022. While down 59% on the record highs of the previous year (£4.1 million), this profit represents a positive return above initial forecasts. Revenue has since rebounded due to strong sales, with the calendar year rivalling previous record levels of turnover, though profit is forecast to fall further in light of steep cost increases.

The significant wider ice cream market shrinkage over the same period has been attributed to increases in cost pressures and a market rebound following surging take-home ice cream sales during the pandemic.

The audited period also saw Mackie’s continuing commitment to investment being made back

into the business, most notably the culmination of a £4.5 million spend into the one of Europe’s most efficient and advanced low carbon refrigeration systems.

Currently partly operational and set to be fully deployed in the coming weeks, the cooling system will slash the firm’s refrigerationrelated energy usage by up to 80% along with its carbon footprint. It will enable Mackie’s to make more efficient use of its vast renewable energy generation capacity, courtesy of its on-site 7000 panel solar farm, four large-scale turbines and biomass plant, which combined produce twice as much energy as the business uses overall.

Further investment has seen Mackie’s upgrade its filling machines to significantly increase capacity, while also bringing most of its sauce making in-house with an investment in state-of-the-art machinery, allowing it to purchase the fruit required for its compotes from local farms.

The programme of investment also encompasses further improvements to its packaging plant as well as the implementation of a marketleading enterprise resource management tool to streamline internal processes.

Newly appointed Managing Director, Stuart Common, commented: “Like all businesses we’re facing major challenges resulting from rising costs throughout our operations which has led to careful negotiations with our trade customers while we do our best to manage and absorb

increases that may otherwise be passed on to the wider public.

“Despite the restrictions associated with the pandemic, we have maintained export sales of over £2 million, which includes increased export to the US, which poses an exciting opportunity for growth.

“We’ve committed to unprecedented levels of investment into our operations to make us a more efficient and sustainable business as well as being better insulated from some rising costs and position us for further future growth. 2022 saw more than £850,000 invested in plant and machinery, which included a new ice cream filler which will give us more options for new products as well as increasing our capacity as we look to continue to grow.

“I believe that our long-term strategy of doing right by the planet and investing so significantly in renewable energy is now giving us the tools to create a competitive advantage, allowing us to continue to offer shoppers a premium dairy product at what we think is an affordable price, particularly when compared to many other premium products in the market which have had to rise higher and faster.

“Our sustainable investments are now paying dividends by helping us to overcome this challenging period, expand our market presence and boost our contribution to the local and national economy over the years ahead.”

To find out more about Mackie’s of Scotland, please visit: www. mackies.co.uk

Left to right Stuart Common and Mac Mackie

Leading turf grower challenges industry to become truly green

Stephen Fell, who owns Yorkshirebased business Lindum Turf, describes the plastic netting –which is in the majority of turf sold in the UK – as a completely avoidable source of pollution, adding few British consumers even know that most turf sold in the UK contains plastic.

The call is being supported by industry body the Turf Growers Association, which is encouraging its members to go plastic free by 2025.

Stephen made the call after Lindum Turf reported a threefold increase in sales of its plastic-free wildflower turf product over the past two years as the trend for replacing manicured lawns with wildflower meadows has gathered pace.

People buy wildflower turf to increase biodiversity and attract pollinators to their gardens, Stephen said, but are often appalled when they discover the product they are laying could cause significant damage to the environment.

“The trouble is, over time the plastic netting breaks down into microplastics and pollutes the soil and can leach off into watercourses,” Stephen said.

“But because the net is hidden within the turf and people can’t see it, they don’t know it is there. So, despite people having the best intentions of doing the right thing for the environment, they often don’t realise the damage choosing the wrong product can cause.

“It’s a throwback to earlier production methods the industry likes to keep quiet about. But technology has moved on. We have worked hard for many years to eliminate plastic from our turf,

including our wildflower turf, and we believe it is now time for the rest of the industry to catch up.”

According to industry figures, around 70m sqm of turf are laid each year in the UK.

One argument employed by some turf growers to provide reassurance to consumers about the environmental credentials of their product is to describe the plastic ‘degradable’.

But this term often confuses consumers into thinking the plastic mesh used is biodegradable and therefore harmless to the environment.

Sadly, the opposite is true. Whereas ‘degradable’ plastic does degrade in the ground, it does so into harmful, polluting microplastics, and not harmless organic matter.

This can cause major issues in soil and water, and for wildlife.

Stephen added: “Wildflower turf is becoming incredibly fashionable. It is the only quick, easy, and reliable way to create a wildflower meadow which not only provides a beautiful spectacle to look at, it increases biodiversity and attracts vital pollinators.

“So, to create a product with that intention, only to line it with damaging single-use plastic seems perverse to me, especially when it is possible to create sturdy, plasticfree wildflower turf. The industry needs to address this issue and pledge to remove plastic from turf by 2030 at the latest.”

According to the TGA, the vast majority of UK turf growers use some kind of plastic turf netting in some or all of their products, meaning thousands of tons of single use plastics are being buried in the ground every year.

Not only does this cause issues with microplastics getting into the environment, farmers who let their land out to turf growers are being left with bits of plastic in their fields which cause problems when growing root crops like carrots and potatoes.

Birds, hedgehogs and other wildlife often suffocate or starve to death after getting trapped in the plastic debris.

Richard Owen, Chairman of the TGA, described the use of plastic turf netting as a major environmental problem.

He said: “It is very difficult to quantify exactly how much turf is laid in the UK, but it is likely that a significant amount of plastic turf netting is being put into the ground each year.

“This causes a problems for wildlife, for farmers on whose land the turf is grown, and most seriously, it decays into polluting microplastics that can leach into watercourses and get into the food chain.

“It is for this reason we are encouraging our members to stop using single use plastic mesh in their turf by 2025 and support calls for an industry-wide cessation.”

The view that single use plastics should not be in wildflower turf, or other types of turf, is also shared by Chelsea Flower Show organiser the RHS.

The organisation’s sustainability policy is working to reduce the use of three materials at its shows: concrete, virgin timber and plastics. Having already banned plastic bags and floral foam across the shows, they are aiming for the complete removal of single use plastics by 2025.

The nature of Lindum’s plastic free turf allows the RHS and the exhibitors who use it, to throw away less organic material after the shows as the RHS allows turf that is not reinforced or meshed to be left for reinstatement or composted.

Lindum Turf has not only exhibited their turf at RHS Chelsea for the past three shows, they are a supplier to the shows team and many garden designers. As more organisations like the RHS launch ambitious sustainability policies, companies like Lindum will be well placed to have the monopoly on the wildflower turf market.

A leading UK turf grower is calling for the end of the use of plastic netting in turf – something he says is causing unseen environmental damage.

Apple Meringue Pie

By Wendy Barrie

You may be forgiven for thinking this isn’t apple season however we need to plan in September’s glut for spring’s shortage and one way is by preserving nature’s fruit harvest, whether wild or orchard, to enjoy a delicious dessert. If you haven’t apple butter then stewed apple will work but will have a less intense flavour. Next harvest time – remember apple butter!

Ingredients:

For rich shortcrust pastry

225g plain flour

160g butter

3 egg yolks

Method:

For filling

6tbsps apple butter*

3 egg whites 150g caster sugar

• Pre-heat oven 180°C and prepare pastry by rubbing butter into flour until it resembles breadcrumbs. Add egg and bring together with a fork (adding a spoon of water if needed) to form a soft dough. Turn out and roll into a round sufficiently large to line a buttered 26cm (or thereabouts) flan dish.

• Place pastry in the dish, pierce with a fork and bake for 8-10 minutes to crisp but still pale.

• Separate eggs. Add yolks to apples and stir to mix well.

• For meringue, whisk egg whites until stiff, and gradually add caster sugar, whisking all the time.

• Remove pastry from oven and spread evenly with apple butter mix. Top with the meringue, then return to oven for 20 minutes until lightly golden.

Serve warm or chilled with cream. Serves 6-8

*Apple butter

Simply wash, quarter and core apples, half fill a large pan, adding a splash of water to prevent them sticking, and cook over a medium heat until soft and mushy. Place a normal kitchen sieve over a large bowl and press through the pulp.

Bring to boil and cook until the apple is reduced and the naturally occurring sugars begin to caramelise, stirring from time to time. It should be thick and the colour of heather honey. Add a little brown sugar if necessary – it will depend on the variety of apple. Decant into sterilised jars and seal tightly.

Wendy Barrie is a cook, food writer & campaigner for local sustainable food. Founder & Director of award-winning www.scottishfoodguide.scot & www.scottishcheesetrail.com Wendy is Leader in Scotland for Slow Food Ark of Taste, a Cooks Alliance Member, Thistle Regional Ambassador in Scotland & Member of IGCAT Global Experts Network. Her book on regenerative food production, “Meadows: The Swedish Farmer & The Scottish Cook” is co-written with her husband, Bosse Dahlgren, heritage farmer & genebank specialist.

AGCO Launches Free Operational Planning Tool for Farmers in Western Europe

AGCO Corporation announced today it has launched a brand-new online tool called Geo-Bird that will help farmers all around the world to independently plan and optimise their global navigation satellite system (GNSS) machine guidance lines. After a period of pre-release testing and gathering maximum end-user feedback, this application is now available.

The number of turns a farmer has to make in the tractor and the amount of fuel used to work a field is determined greatly by the wayline approach. While various methods can be used to generate efficient waylines in the cab, many farmers have expressed a desire to generate more efficient waylines out of the cab and in the off-season from the comfort of their office.

“The ability to plan in advance and outside the rush of

narrow windows to complete fieldwork is very important to our customers,” explained Mark Theuerkauf, Fuse Go-To-Market Lead. “This is especially true when working on rented land, working as a contractor on many different fields, or growing speciality crops in combination with local challenging conditions, like irregular or sloping field conditions. It is often guesswork to know what the most efficient working direction should be.”

Geo-Bird is an easy-to-use application that can help farmers overcome this challenge. With minimal inputs, advanced algorithms inside Geo-Bird analyse the field shape and by considering matching working widths of implements calculates the optimal wayline routing. Three potential routing

suggestions are calculated, as also a manual direction can be entered for comparison.

Of each calculated routing the time savings, wheel traffic area and number of turns are shown, conveniently arranged to easily see the differences and potential savings.

Following the Fuse open platform philosophy, the desired routing can be downloaded in the right format for direct use on the farmer’s terminal in the cab, simply by choosing your current guidance system from a comprehensive list of 3rd party brands.

The Geo-Bird application is free of charge and is accessible via this link: www.geo-bird.com. As topography is an important factor in this calculation for many regions, a soon to be released, free of charge upgrade is already

being developed and will be launched in Q1 2023. Geo-Bird will continue to introduce more advanced features in the future with more helpful and practical functionalities that may require a fee.

Geo-Bird is fully GDPRcompliant and protects user data and privacy. All data is exchanged via secure encrypted connections.

Fendt customers can check their track lines in GeoBird and, if necessary, adjust their alignment so that as few turning manoeuvres as possible are required at the headland. This saves time and operating resources. The track lines can be easily imported from the tractor terminal into Geo-Bird via USB stick, and the optimised data is returned to the tractor terminal via the same route.

FBN to Invest in Greeneye and Partner as a Sales Channel to Fuel US Growth

Scotland

The Brand

Showing Some Love to the Swede

Greeneye Technology, the pioneer of AI precision ag spraying technology, and Farmers Business Network (FBN®), the global AgTech platform and farmer-tofarmer network, today announced they have entered into a long-term strategic collaboration agreement to help farmers reduce weed control costs and drive profitability by combining Greeneye’s retrofit precision spraying systems and FBN’s Precision Spraying Packs–customized crop protection and nutrition plans which FBN is developing for use specifically with the Greeneye technology–and financing offerings. The program will launch first in the U.S for the 2024 growing season.

Also as part of the agreement announced, FBN has led Greeneye’s current investment round through a significant investment which will fuel Greeneye’s growth and expansion in the U.S. market and beyond.

Last year, as a participant in FBN’s Innovators Research League, one of the largest onfarm field trial programs in North America, the Greeneye system reduced non-residual herbicide use by an average of 86%, while achieving the same weed control efficacy and crop yield as traditional broadcast spraying. FBN will continue robust on-farm trials and data gathering to develop Precision Spraying Packs – combinations of crop protection, biologicals, and adjuvants – for use with the Greeneye system to optimise both efficacy and cost saving.

FBN will also offer financing for both the Greeneye system and its Precision Spraying Packs. A field trial undertaken by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Agricultural Research Division (ARD) last summer also found that the Greeneye system offered 94% reduction in burndown herbicide use during pre-emergence spraying compared to broadcast application along with an 87% reduction in non-residual herbicide use during post-emergence spraying compared to broadcast application – representing an overall cost saving to farmers of more than 60% – while achieving the same, or similar, levels of efficacy compared to broadcast spraying.

“The core mission of FBN is to drive farmer ROI potential. Whether that is through transparent list pricing, analytics, financing, direct to farm eCommerce or R&D - FBN is at its core a technology company that solves problems for our farmer members,” said Matt Meisner, Vice President of R&D and Data Science at FBN. “Our Innovators Research League onfarm field trial program rigorously tests the best new ag technologies in real world conditions. Our trial results showed that Greeneye’s technology offers truly game changing potential for cost reduction and ROI. We’re very excited to invest in and formalize our commercial relationship with Greeneye Technology. This marks a new era for combining precision spraying with intelligent input crop protection & commerce.”

By Ruth Watson

The Royal Northern Agricultural Society’s annual ‘Growing Turnip and Fodder Beet’ competition attracts entries from Laurencekirk to Nairn. This year’s winner was Stewart Davidson, of West Cortiecram Farm, with a field of Kenmore Swede giving a yield of 72.67 tonnes per acre.

“Neeps are a very important over-winter feed. We market our fat lambs in the springtime, and we have practically no grass left by then,” Stewart says. “It’s very challenging to grow turnips now. A lot of sprays have been banned so we’re fighting against weeds and cabbage flea beetle. Too many people are scunnered by the costs involved for the precarious yield. If we could be sure of a good crop every year, I think more folk would grow them. They are an important fodder crop.”

It’s not certain when the purple swede first arrived in Scotland. We do know that in 1777 a Mr Airth sent his father, a Forfarshire farmer, a packet of the new ‘kale root’ seeds from Gothenburg, and King Gustav of Sweden sent a gift of seeds to Patrick Miller, a gentleman farmer of Dalswinton, in Dumfries and Galloway in the early 1790s. Scotland is well-suited to these versatile root vegetables and their introduction

transformed farming. Before the swede was grown as a fodder crop, winter-weakened cattle had to be carried from their byres to spring pastures.

“There’s not a feed you can grow to rival the neep,” says Sandy Duguid, owner of Murray Duguid Ltd, the seed merchants which sponsor the annual competition. “This competition gives us a lot of information which we can use. The drier springs and wetter autumns are making a big difference to growing.”

The ban on chemicals catastrophic to crucial pollinators but which leave crops vulnerable, the heavy impact of climate change, and spiralling costs mean farmers are dealing with significant challenges. We have to find a way forward which works for everyone, and we need to find it fast.

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

Scotland backs organic with barriers to funding lifted

Scottish farms of all shapes and sizes can now apply for government cash to convert to organic as new funding options opened to farmers and crofters today (Monday 30 January).

The window for applications to the Agri-Environment Climate Scheme (AECS) is now open, as the Scottish Government pushes to double organic land by 2026.

A total of 680 businesses will share more than £14million through AECS this year, with the funding rewarding farmers for protecting the environment including support for organic farming.

This helps farmers through the two-year conversion process, where land must be farmed to organic standards, but goods cannot be sold as organic.

Support for maintaining organic systems is also available after the conversion period, in recognition of the environmental benefits they deliver.

Soil Association Scotland Head of Policy, David McKay, said: “With more wildlife and soil carbon on organic farms, it is great to see the Scottish government backing and investing in this nature-friendly way of farming.

“With the government looking to double organic farmland and concern for climate breakdown and wildlife declines growing, this is an excellent time for farmers and crofters to consider this change.

“The adjustments to the scheme this year make it a good

option for holdings of all sizes to apply, with some of the previous area-based barriers to funding now lifted.

“Challenges to the entire farming sector remain, but it seems certain that both government and consumer support for farming in harmony with nature will continue to increase, and farmers should have confidence in switching to organic."

Alongside Scottish Environment LINK, Soil Association Scotland is calling for the budget for environmental farming schemes, including organic farming support, to increase in future years so that farmers and crofters can

help the government to meet its climate and nature commitments.

What’s new with AECS?

There was previously an area cap which meant that larger holdings would not be eligible for organic conversion or maintenance payments on additional hectares above 1,000ha.

That rule has been suspended for this round, which means there is no upper limit barrier for both new applicants and existing contract holders with land in excess of the previous cap.

This change reflects one of the asks of the Scottish Organic Stakeholders Group report, Pointing the way towards an Organic Action Plan for Scotland,

which was published last year. The intention is to encourage both large and small holdings to apply.

There is also support available for small-scale organic growers and market gardeners who are below the 3ha minimum threshold for basic payments. Payments of £500 are available for those businesses registered with the Scottish Government's Rural Payments Division (RPID), which can help cover the annual cost of certification.

Funding within AECS for slurry storage has also changed, while some options are not available this funding round including pond creation and treatment of bracken.

The deadline for applications to AECS is Wednesday 7 June 2023.

The latest news on Balers and Baling Case IH offers extra-dense bales with the launch of new LB 424 XLD

The new Case IH LB 424 XLD produces extra-dense 120cm x 70cm bales / up to 10% increase in density further improves bale quality, handling, transport, storage and cost-efficiency / Rotor Cutter and Packer versions available / Versatile design allows it to operate in any crop.

Case IH has expanded its range of large square balers with the addition of a new model in the 120cm x 70cm segment. The LB 424 XLD produces 260cm long bales which are up to 10% heavier than those from the existing LB 424 XL – the ‘D’ standing for Density. The latter machine remains in the range.

“The new model will appeal to customers who need extra-

dense, well-shaped, consistent and durable large square bales for maximum output, perfect handling, lower transport costs and optimum use of storage space,” Michael Jankowski, Case IH Product Marketing Manager, states.

The denser bales are mainly thanks to the LB 424 XLD’s reinforced plunger which provides 400kN of compression force, a 27% increase over the LB 424 XL. Its design incorporates strong, perpendicular V-shaped support beams made from 33% thicker 8mm steel, together with four sectional reinforcement plates instead of two.

Hard wearing and versatile enough to operate in all

combinable crops, the LB 424 XLD is equipped with reinforced baler chamber side doors which are twice as stiff as those on the LB 424 XL. The top door and top door density beams are also

stronger and more rigid, while the front and floor sections of the bale chamber are constructed of Hardox® steel wear plates which are extremely resistant to abrasion and very durable.

The new CLAAS VARIANT 500

For the 2023 season, CLAAS is introducing new VARIANT 500 variable chamber round balers. In addition to consistent further development of essential functional areas like the pressure control system, these new balers are characterized by larger tyre options, simplified maintenance and a new design.

CLAAS is one of the pioneers in the development and construction of round balers and one of the world’s leading suppliers in this product sector. With the VARIANT 500 series, we have now succeeded in incorporating a clear plus in operator comfort and ease of maintenance with

increased baling density, further optimizing net wrapping and at the same time meeting practical demands for tyres that protect the soil.

The VARIANT 500 series comprises four models. The VARIANT 560 RC and 565 RF can create bales from 0.90 to 1.60 m in diameter, while bale diameter with the VARIANT 580 RC and 585 RF is up to 1.80 m. The new VARIANT 560 RF and 580 RF both feature a spiral ROTO FEED rotor, while the VARIANT 565RC and 585RC both come with a spiral ROTO CUT four-star cutting rotor that ensures excellent forage quality and high baling density.

The VARIANT 565 RC and 585 RC also incorporate heavy duty drive components such as reinforced drive chains, a strong cutting rotor with 8 mm doubletine stars and special knife protection for where the baler is heavily used and primarily for silage. Both balers are equipped with a 17-knife cutting mechanism with a theoretical chop length of 60 mm. The standard PRO rotor drop floor can be lowered hydraulically to clear blockages at the push of a button from the tractor cab, while the knives are automatically depressurized. In order to prevent blockages in advance, the PRO rotor drop floor compensates for uneven swaths by being able to lower itself by up to 30 mm and automatically return to its original position. An acoustic signal warns the driver before the rotor is blocked, so that there is enough time to reduce the driving speed.

All wrapped up – John Deere’s C441R with film-on-film binding

Developed to meet the highcapacity requirements of contractors and larger livestock farms, Deere’s C441R premium wrapping baler incorporates a heavy-duty drive system rated at up to 210hp with 1,000rpm PTO. The 18-roller bale chamber has a 121cm width, and a transport table system allows one bale to be held while the next bale is being formed before ejecting both at the same time. This saves time, simplifies bale collection logistics and accelerates harvesting. And it’s fast - the wrapping arm works at 40rpm. A big advantage of the C441R is film-on-film wrapping, allowing farmers to unwrap a bale in frosty conditions effortlessly,

and there’s no need any more to separate film and net for waste disposal.

It’s an all-rounder, able to perform in both heavy, wet grass crops and dry straw, producing

bales with consistent density and shape in all crop types.

Operators can choose from 2-metre or optional 2.2m pickups, feeding a high capacity MaxiCut HC rotor with 13 or 25 knives. The baler also incorporates a full width parallel drop-floor system operated from the tractor cab, which enables blockages to be removed instantly. The machine is available with a single axle as standard or with an optional tandem axle chassis for improved stability.

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Krone’s Gen 5 BiG Pack offers improved bale quality and useability

The development of Krone’s fifth generation BiG Pack square baler has seen the company revise and optimise many highwear components, to increase machine longevity while boosting overall useability and bale quality.

The new generation baler is based on the 1270 and 1290 models, but includes longer bale chambers, a heavier-duty Variable Fill System (VFS) and various useability features, such as the new hydraulically driven PowerClean fan.

Ben Davies, Krone UK product manager, explains that

the bale chambers have been extended by 20% to 3.6m, now with a full-width top plate for increased durability.

“The extended chambers allow for an improved bale shape and higher weights. The VFS has been reworked to better manage load rating and throughput rates by reducing peak loads in the control circuit,” he says.

“With a clear graph on the display screen determining the load, even inexperienced operators can achieve maximum daily output rates.”

A unique feature to the Gen 5 baler, is the knotter cleaning system. Hydraulic turbines generate an overpressure inside the knotter bay to avoid debris build up, reducing servicing time.

Mr Davies explains that a heavier duty, but slimmer drawbar provides sturdier support for the drive shaft. This offers more adjustments for optimum drive shaft alignment and lifespan.

“The Gen 5 sees the twine boxes integrated into the side panels where they’re protected with a rubber seal from dust and debris, offering a clear view of

up to 30 twine balls of 10-15kg,” he says.

Mr Davies adds that the panels fold hydraulically into two different positions from the cabbased terminal or the control panel on the machine.

“This makes for quick and convenient refills and easy accessibility for maintenance or repair,” he adds.

More baling choice from Kubota

Kubota’s baler line-up continues to evolve. Its fixed and variable chamber line-up includes the heavy duty, high capacity fixed chamber BF3500, along with variable chamber BV5160 and BV5200 Plus models.

And for those who want to bale and wrap, the range includes the twin-axle FlexiWrap balerwrapper combination.

Implement innovation includes Tractor Implement Management (TIM) for BV variable chamber balers. This innovative ISOBUS solution enables the implement to automatically control certain functions of the tractor to optimise the quality and efficiency of the baling process.

With TIM, the baler is able to take control of repetitive functions to reduce operator fatigue. When activated, TIM manages the

KVT transmission to slow the tractor to a standstill once the bale chamber is filled. Engine revs are automatically lowered while the net goes on, then the chamber door is automatically opened and closed, to let the bale out.

The system then beeps to inform the operator that the process is complete. This prompts the operator to check that the way ahead is clear before pressing the drive pedal – doing so automatically increases revs and starts the process all over again.

Kubota was the first manufacturer to receive the renowned AEF certification for a highly efficient combination of the M7003 Premium KVT tractor and the BV Series TIM round baler.

The latest addition to the Kubota baler range is the BF3500.

Designed for heavy silage conditions, the BF3500 uses 18 rollers with 50mm diameter bearings, and double-row roller bearings are used on all main load points.

Two rollers sit in the base of the chamber to give additional support with heavy, wet silage bales, and hydraulic density control provides consistent bale quality in all crop conditions.

Denser bale from KUHN

KUHN’s VB 7100 Series of ISOBUS-compatible, highperformance, round variablechamber balers feature a patented i-DENSE bale density regulation system. The VB 7100 Series’ heavy-duty baler design is aimed at the larger output farmer or contractor looking to achieve very dense bales. The series includes the 7160 and 7190 models, which produce 1.6- and 1.85-metre diameter round bales.

Via KUHN’s intelligent i-DENSE system with twintensioning-arm system, the balers generate bale densities of up to 140 kilograms per cubic metre,

along with taking moisture sensor readings, i-DENSE automatically gauges the crop and crop conditions to adjust baling pressure accordingly. Depending on the moisture threshold, which is preset by the operator, the I-DENSE system will automatically adapt the baling pressure without operator intervention.

Working with the i-DENSE system is a four-belt, three-roller bale chamber design that enables fast, consistent bale formation in all crop conditions. Other components include KUHN’s INTEGRAL ROTOR and a net binder that features active-stretch technology

to assist in creating consistent net tension and a sturdy bale shape.

KUHN’s VBP 3165 features the twin-reel film binding system

BALERS & BALING

like that of the brand’s popular fixed chamber balers. This enables the flexibility of a variable chamber baler to be coupled with the patented system which only uses 2 x 750mm film wrap to reduce cost and save time. The baler is also equipped with KUHN’s patented INTELLIWRAP system on the rear wrapper, which enables the application of odd number of layers. This is achieved by adjusting the film overlap which reduces the layers needed from a conventional 6 to a now possible 5.

New features for Massey Ferguson RB Series baler

Massey Ferguson has announced it is introducing a range of new features and options to improve operation and productivity on its MF RB Series round balers.

“These significant enhancements include new Exclusive specification packages that automate repetitive tasks, making the balers easier to operate and reduce the workload on operators, which increases productivity,” explains Jérôme Aubrion, Director Marketing Massey Ferguson, Europe & Middle East.

“Exclusive Tractor Implement Management (TIM) specification provides the same high levels of automation and also includes stopping the tractor. Other new features include automatic

greasing and an entry-level touchscreen control terminal.

“These new features and options are likely to appeal to high capacity users that will benefit from the productivity gains they deliver. The extra choices also enable users to select a higher level of specification to suit their requirements and levels of investment,” he adds.

MF RB Series Round baler enhancements include:

New Exclusive specification packages available for all MF

RB Xtra Solo baler models automate many baler features. Exclusive specification package with Tractor Implement Management (TIM) functionality.

New entry level touch-screen MF BaleControl terminal.

New display for all terminals including ISOBUS.

Automatic greasing system for all variable chamber balers and improved bale tipper for Protec baler/wrapper combinations.

McHale V6760 Fully Automatic Variable Chamber Baler

The new McHale V6760 is a fully automatic baler and is the highest spec machine in the V6 range. This fully automatic

BALERS & BALING

machine is ISOBUS compatible with the option of using McHale’s ISO-PLAY 7 or ISO-PLAY 12 terminals, allowing the operator to experience the highest level of customisation and machine performance. Building on the reputation of the current V6 range, McHale has added the following features to the V6760:

A 5-tine bar cam track pick-up comes as standard on the V6760 or a 6-tine bar camless pick-up with a double crop roller is available as an optional extra. The newly designed lateral feed augers direct the crop into the large diameter rotor which allows for maximum throughput. The V6760 comes with an

Adaptive Intake which has been specifically designed to allow the intake area to automatically adjust to changes in material flow.

A 540 rpm gearbox is equipped on the V6760 as standard. To optimise machine performance, a 1000 rpm gearbox is available as an optional extra.

The V6760 is ISOBUS compatible as standard. McHale ISOBUS machines can be plugged into any ISOBUS tractor connection and operated via the tractor’s own terminal in the cab. If the customer wishes to operate an ISOBUS controlled machine with a tractor that is not ISOBUS compatible, they can do so through the McHale ISO-PLAY 7 or ISO-PLAY 12 terminal which are available as an optional extra.

Affordable baling without compromise from MetalFach

The recent introduction of Metal-Fach round balers into the UK by Zetor UK provides a new cost effective and simple way of bailing, particularly for those farmers wanting to take control of their own.

Although Metal-Fach produce a comprehensive range of round balers and wrappers, Zetor UK are initially focusing on 2 models, the Z562 and the Z562 RN. Both models produce a 1.2m (4’) diameter bale using a 16 roller fixed bale chamber, making them well suited for baling silage, haylage and straw.

Featuring a 1.8m pick-up, the Z562 feeds material into its chamber by a feeder rake, making it better suited for drier crops. Whereas the Z562 RN is equipped with a feeder rotor and 13 knives. The rotor provides a more positive feed of material, important when baling wetter grass and the 13 knives reduce the length of the crop, increasing bale density and reducing wastage when feeding out.

Both models come with twine tying as standard, which can be upgraded to a faster net

wrap system to better protect the bales. A 540 rpm gearbox and 400/60-15,5 tyres. Maintenance is simple and straightforward thanks to the centralised bearing and chain lubrication systems. Operation of the baler is carried out using a digital control panel,

this includes hydraulic operation and twine/net tying. The control also includes bale counters and provides waring of chamber overload.

On farm prices for the Z562 start at £15,873.

Bigger, Better Baling with the New Holland Pro-Belt Baler

The all-new New Holland, ProBelt™ premium round baler range delivers the performance and reliability that professionals and contractors can rely on. From the heaviest wet silage crops to bulky straw windrows, the ProBelt 165 and 190 deliver solid and square shouldered round bales with impressive capacity from either the renowned SuperFeed™ or new 25 knife CropCutter™ large diameter rotor feeding systems.

Durability by design ProBelt round balers have been

proven the world over with over 150,000 bales produced. The all-new heavy-duty drivelines, a more robust frame, and the re-imaged bale chamber deliver professional grade uptime and bales with high density.

The latest precision farming solutions including ISOBUS electronics offers a simple user interface to track all baler functions and quickly adjust on-the-go, track individual bale moisture, and average bale moisture then make smart real time agronomic decisions.

Straw management; improving efficiency with Spread-a-Bale

Efficient use of straw is amongst the management objectives at Clochcan, Auchnagatt, Ellon where Michael Wilson uses up to an annual 3,000 rectangular bales to bed up his finishing unit which turns over approximately 2,500 head a year.

“We always make sure the cattle are well bedded with our home-grown straw,” he explains. “Straw accounts for a lot of functions; in the first instance, keeping cattle clean saves clipping just a head of leaving the unit – a job no one likes, whilst a clean dry court helps towards improving their overall health and welfare and subsequent performance.”

The Auchnagatt team is spreading an average eight Heston bales a day, 365, using a Spread-a-Bale machine. “We used to shake out the straw with a telehandler until 2017, a year straw was looking short after a poor harvest. We decided to fully mechanise the operation and invested in a Maxi model.”

The machine not only achieved Michael Wilson’s initial objective making 30% straw savings, but also improved

Vicon Plus-series variable chamber balers

spreading efficiency. “We are time saving – it takes less than two minutes to spread a bale, consequently we’re using less fuel and we’re extending the loader’s life. We’re also achieving a better quality bed.

“We also have 20 cows that we bed with the machine without the need to go in amongst them which makes for a safer operation during calving,” he says.

“Spread-a-Bale delivers a nice even spread of straw which is beneficial not only for the cattle but also when it comes to cleaning out. We no longer have lumps of straw to deal with, the muck easily flows through the spreader’s rollers, blockages have been eliminated and it helps ploughing down.”

After spreading over 12,000 bales, Michael Wilson has exchanged his Maxi model for a Maxi HD, providing extra torque to facilitate spreading of high density, compact rectangular bales. “We are able to load and spread a bale within four minutes. This machine is helping to speed up operations and contributing towards the unit’s overall efficiency.”

Vicon’s latest RV5200 series variable chamber round balers offer lower running costs with improved output. Now with ‘Plus’ designation, the updated RV5216 and RV5220 models are available with a range of intake systems including SuperFeed rotor or 14 knife SuperCut crop chopping system.

Maximum bale sizes are 1.65m and 2.0m respectively, for RV5216 and RV5220 models.

Performance enhancing upgrades include a redesigned roller crop press capable of lifting higher in heavier crops, while the press’ side support arms have also been strengthened and incorporate improved limit stops.

Enhanced protection against crop wrapping is also provided for the bearings, which have now been mounted inside the roller crop press.

Up front, the 2.2m pick-up reel - which features twin-cam tracks and five tine bars - has also been improved. It now features 10mm longer tines and wider stripper plates to improve cleaning in wet crop conditions. The pick-up drive chain has also been increased in size for added durability.

The driveline has received attention and is now equipped with long-life HBC specification chains providing higher fatigue strength and increased wear resistance, compared to conventional chain. The bale chamber has not escaped attention either, with a new design of idler rollers which benefit from a 45% increase in bearing diameter, along with larger internal grease capacity and improved shielding. The idler rollers also gain a continuous central shaft, which adds rigidity.

Completed with New Holland next generation styling the stylish side shields, flowing lines

are more than good looking they are a visual representation of

crop flow through the baler.

Yamaha launches 25th year anniversary Grizzly ATV

On the 25th anniversary of the Grizzly ATV, Yamaha has announced a new edition featuring new instruments, brakes, accessories and graphics all coupled to the second generation MK II 686cc 4-valve SOHC engine which features the latest EFI throttle body as well as fine-tuned ECU mapping and refined tolerances that ensure

low fuel consumption, high torque and smooth performance.

“This anniversary model taps into the legendary legacy of the original 1998 Grizzly 600 and is a rugged farm tool that can be depended on to manage the toughest terrain and offer operator comfort, safety and versatility,” says Dan Palmer, Power Products Manager.

The new Grizzly features Yamaha’s durable and efficient CVT Ultramatic® automatic transmission. The instantreaction gearing tackles the toughest terrain, and the natural feel of the all-wheel engine braking gives added confidence and control on steep slopes and when crawling amongst livestock.

“The new model features an independent suspension system which uses adjustable nitrogen gas shocks enabling the rider to change settings to suit differing loads and terrains. The Grizzly is also the only model in its class featuring four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes, for improved braking performance and overall control,” Mr Palmer says.

A new 25th anniversary edition of the Yamaha Grizzly has been unveiled for 2023

The new edition features new instruments, brakes, accessories and graphics all coupled to the second generation MK II 686cc 4-valve SOHC engine

The new model features an independent suspension system which uses adjustable nitrogen gas shocks enabling the rider to change settings to suit differing loads and terrains

Every Grizzly has a front-mounted WARN VRX 25 winch fitted as standard

The intelligent OnCommand® drive system features a convenient pushbutton control that switches seamlessly and instantaneously from 2WD, 4WD or 4WD with Diff-lock and back, to optimise performance in changing terrain and weather conditions.

“The anniversary edition comes with one of the highest standard specifications in its category and features a frontmounted WARN VRX 25 winch. With a carrying capacity of 140kg and able to tow 600kg, it has one of the highest carrying capacities of any ATV in the UK,” he says.

For added comfort, the new Grizzly is equipped with Electronic Power Steering (EPS) that offers the best balance of rider assistance and positive feedback. The light steering and precise handling enhances rider comfort, confidence and control.

The multi-function digital instruments feature a fuel gauge,

speedometer, odometer, dual trip meters, hour meter, clock, 4WD/ Diff-lock status, transmission gear selector and EPS warning light. Three separate storage compartments offer plenty of secure space for tools and equipment. The Grizzly is also

fitted with a heavy-duty brush guard, front bash plate, over fenders and hand-protectors for increased rider and vehicle protection.

“This is a special edition for Yamaha, and riders who have enjoyed the Grizzly for the last 25

years will be impressed with the performance and specification. It will also be an attractive proposition for those who have never experienced the power and versatility of the Grizzly. It is a landmark in Yamaha’s ATV history,” he concludes.

JCB engine breakthrough proves hydrogen has wider appeal

Show off your environmental credentials!

Rebecca Audsley, Principal Consultant, SAC Consulting.

From hedge management to reduced tillage, land managers across Scotland are already taking plenty of steps to tackle the twin challenges of biodiversity loss and climate change. The thing is, we don’t always get to hear about it.

JCB has made a major breakthrough in proving the wider appeal of hydrogen combustion technology by installing one of its superefficient hydrogen engines into a 7.5 tonne Mercedes truck.

The retrofit was completed in just days and one of the truck’s first test drivers was JCB Chairman Anthony Bamford, who has been spearheading the company’s £100 million hydrogen project.

The internal combustion engine used in the truck is the same as those already powering JCB prototype construction and agricultural machines.

Lord Bamford said: “This is a giant leap forward for JCB and the rest of the world because we all have one goal: to reduce emissions. The hydrogen engine we have installed in the truck is the same as those already powering prototype JCB machines, so there is no reason we should not see hydrogen

combustion engines in vehicles used on the roads in the future, including cars.”

JCB has already manufactured 50 hydrogen internal combustion engines in a project involving 150 engineers and they now power prototype JCB backhoe loader and Loadall telescopic handler machines. The truck at the centre of the latest project was formerly diesel-powered and the switch to hydrogen is a breakthrough which underlines that this form of power could represent a much quicker way to reach global carbon dioxide emissions targets.

JCB was the developer of the world’s first working hydrogenpowered construction and agricultural machines. Last year JCB revealed another industry first – a mobile hydrogen refueller which provides a quick and straightforward way to refuel machines on site. JCB’s hydrogen internal combustion engines are manufactured at JCB Power Systems in Derbyshire.

However, this could be about to change. Via the Agriculture, Biodiversity and Climate Change (ABCC) Network, farms, crofts and estates across Scotland are highlighting some of the biodiversity measures and carbon friendly steps that they are already taking, the many benefits this brings and how they have made it work for both their business and the environment.

One of the things farmers share via the Network is what they would do differently if beginning again from scratch. Starting sooner was one of the common answers, alongside learning by trial and error and seeking more collaboration with others to achieve their aims. And going forward? A focus on soil health, tree planting and more renewables were all on the ‘to-do’ list.

All crofters and farmers can be part of the ABCC Network. Not only will it showcase some of the steps you are taking to support biodiversity and reduce emissions, but it could also help other farmers by providing practical ideas

to adopt or adapt for their holding too.

To see what other farmers have done, and to be part of the network, go to www. farmingforabetterclimate.org/ agriculture-biodiversity-andclimate-change-network/ or email ABCCNetwork@gov. scot for more details.

For more information on other practical measures farmers are implementing to improve farm efficiency, see www. farmingforabetterclimate. org Sign up to our newsletter and find us on Facebook and Twitter @SACFarm4Climate.

The ABCCN is a joint government and industry initiative supported by Scottish Government, Farming for a Better Climate, SAC Consulting, NFUS, QMS and Soil Association Scotland. Farming for a Better Climate is funded by the Scottish Government.

Farming for a Better Climate is funded by Scottish Government and delivered by SAC Consulting

Yara’s Agronomy Operations Manager Natalie Wood on 2022 trial results – what did we learn, what can farmers do, and where to next?

2022’s floods, storms, drought and the volatile grain market shook the industry, but as 2023 gets underway, Natalie Wood, Agronomy Operations Manager at Yara, discusses the findings from last years’ trials.

2022 was a big year for research at Yara as it entered into a Knowledge Transfer Partnership with Cranfield University, a commitment to furthering knowledge on all areas of the business. “We don’t own any fields of our own so it’s all collaborative, managed independently, through contractors,” explains Natalie. “We are constantly building and investing in research and development - the goal is to gather data that’s relevant to improving crop nutrition recommendations, particularly overall nutrient use efficiency on farm.”

So what can we learn from 2022?

1. Sulphur – the all-important sidekick

The winter wheat trial compared an ammonium nitrate fertiliser (YaraBela EXTRAN) with a nitrogen and sulphur fertiliser (YaraBela AXAN). The sulphur product delivered a 0.3 tonnes per hectare yield increase. The same increase occurred on the same site when comparing urea versus urea with sulphur. “Vitally, sulphur boosts nitrogen use efficiency,” Natalie explains.

Of course, Yara are in the same boat as farmers when it comes to the weather, so they carry out their trials over several years to get an average. “One year we saw a difference of 1.4 tonnes per hectare, which is an amazing

response. Yes, it’s an outlier, but it goes to show that some sites will be that responsive.” Natalie adds, “Nitrogen’s not cheap, but by having the sulphur there with it, you will ensure you’re going to make the most of it.”

2. Nitrogen – can a result be too good?

Yara’s research on nitrogen stretches back nearly 50 years, and every year new trials add to their findings.

“The long range is so useful because we can look back and find a year with similar conditions and work out what to expect as the optimum for this year, taking into account the price,” Natalie says.

But some of Yara’s 2022 research considers a newer iteration of nitrogen: foliar nitrogen. There’s been a buzz around the topic over the past couple of years, so it was an important focus in 2022.

The foliar nitrogen dose response trial

• Wheat was treated with 60 kg of straight N followed by 40kg.

• Next it was treated with a 300g/l foliar nitrogen fertiliser (YaraVita Safe-N) – one application at growth stage 37 and another at growth stage 45.

“This is the second year that we’ve done this trial,” Natalie says. “There was some variation between 2021 and 2022 but the key message was that the nitrogen use efficiency was much too high – it was at 120%. At 100% and above, what’s happening is you’ve started to mine the inherent soil fertility.”

Natalie emphasises growers should be careful with that risk. “Farmers have spent recent years focusing on building soil fertility, and foliar nitrogen can deplete in one year what’s been built up in several.” Natalie then went on to highlight another potential issue with foliar nitrogen when it comes to protein levels. “In grain analysis, we found a significant drop in the protein levels from that foliar application, suggesting foliar nitrogen probably isn’t the right product if protein is your goal.”

3. Micronutrients – part of a powerful mix

Yara have various trials running on their micronutrient fertiliser range – YaraVita. “In a potato trial, we looked at the effects of combining micronutrients and biostimulants. We know they can make a slight difference on their own, but wanted to see what they can do when paired together.”

The trial compared a control, with YaraVita MAGPHOS K

(a liquid fertiliser containing phosphate, potash and magnesium), and YaraVita MAGPHOS K plus a biostimulant. The results were compelling.

Adding MAGPHOS K increased the marketable yield by 4 tonnes per hectare. Adding both MAGPHOS K and the bio stimulant increased yields by a further 4 tonnes per hectare, creating a huge 8-tonne difference compared to the control.

Natalie acknowledges that many potato growers really suffered in 2022, but it seems this trial avoided the worst of the issues. “These are certainly some very encouraging results, but this is the first year of this particular trial, so naturally we’ll run some more trials on it to make sure the data’s robust.”

Natalie’s 3 key takeaways for farmers

Foliar nitrogen isn’t a magic wand: “There are good stories out there, but make sure you don’t take too much from your soil. Keep on top of monitoring, and be mindful about protein.”

What’s your switch strategy: “If you’re switching to a new variety, bear in mind that different varieties can have different nitrogen use efficiency.”

Do your own trials on your own farm: “If you’re deliberating over biostimulants or micronutrient mixtures, set up your own trial. It’s the perfect way to test your options whilst adding minimal risk into your strategy. In addition, zero-nitrogen plots are a good way of monitoring nitrogen and mineralisation on your own fields.”

Natalie Wood

science & technology

Kubota (Europe) launches online Kubota Group Solutions Hub

Paint technology

Seven-year manufacturer guarantee against rust perforation for AMAZONE fertiliser spreaders. The best of both worlds –Cathodic dip painting process combined with powder coating

Kubota has launched an online communication website called Kubota Group Solutions Hub. This new platform, freely accessed via www.kubota-group. eu is an initiative from Kubota Holdings Europe (KHE) to bring together innovative customer solutions from multiple brands under the Kubota Group umbrella. These include Kubota, Great Plains, Kverneland, Vicon, Fede and ROC.

The Kubota Group Solutions Hub brings together various stories about customer solutions with technologies that enable users to successfully overcome industry challenges, under the themes of innovation, sustainability, connectivity, automation and efficiency.

Each story describes the challenge faced and the solution provided from each brand,

along with videos and customer testimonials. And at the conclusion of each story, there is a description of how these solutions specifically contribute towards the achievement of the United Nations’ sustainable development goals.

Visitors to the site can discover various stories shared by Kubota’s tractor, construction and engine divisions, as well as from Kverneland Group (Kverneland, Vicon and ROC), Great Plains Manufacturing and Fede. This new platform also enables the various Kubota Group companies to progressively ramp-up communications towards key industry events, for example the forthcoming Agritechnica event that will take place from 12-18 November 2023 in Hannover, Germany.

Paintwork on a fertiliser spreader is exposed to heavy wear and tear. The paintwork is intended to protect the implement from corrosion, especially when handling fertiliser and where moisture is involved. AMAZONE has been using a new premium painting process for the ZA-V and ZA-TS mounted fertiliser spreaders and the ZG-TS bulk fertiliser spreader since the 2022 model year. This involves a cathodic dip painting process (known as KTL) for priming to give the best possible protection even on the internal surfaces of tubes. Then, a powder coating provides an extra-thick coat of paint for increased protection against mechanical knocks and bangs as well as giving the fertiliser spreader a high-quality visual appearance.

No worries - Manufacturer guarantee against rusting through AMAZONE now offers a special guarantee for these models in the form of a seven-year manufacturer guarantee against rusting through. The guarantee can be easily applied for free of charge in the myAMAZONE digital customer portal at www.amazone. net/myAMAZONE under the terms and conditions stated there.

Multi-layer painting

The premium painting is carried out in four main steps. The particular characteristic of this multi-layer painting process is the combination of cathodic dip painting and powder coating. In the first step, the carrier material is prepared for painting in 14 processing stages. This includes e.g. multiple etching and degreasing operations. The fertiliser spreaders are then subjected to zinc phosphating in the next step, in order to prevent the formation of rust as effectively as possible. The third stage includes the thick-layer KTL cathodic dip-paint process. Then, finally, the fertiliser spreaders receive their powder coating. The application of a particularly thick powder coating gives the spreader even better protection against those mechanical demands, and it is provided with double corrosion protection as a result of the stovebaking process.

The new premium painting process for the ZA-V, ZA-TS and ZG-TS models combined with largely stainless steel components ensures a high level of operational reliability and a long service life.

Maximise the potential of your land with Statkraft

Statkraft is Europe’s largest generator of renewable energy. With 5,000 employees in 20 countries Statkraft produces hydropower, wind power, solar power and supplies district heating around the world.

Since 1998 Statkraft has invested over £1.3 billion in the UK’s renewable energy infrastructure. We have offices in London, Glasgow and Cardiff and our UK operations involve developing, owning and operating renewable production facilities. We also trade power from our own project and those of third parties.

The Scottish Government has legislated for a legally binding net-zero emissions target by 2045, which is supported by the new National Planning Framework 4 “Scotland’s future places will be net zero, nature-positive places that are designed to reduce emissions and adapt to the impacts of climate change, whilst protecting, recovering and restoring our environment”. Renewable energy is a quick, cheap way to meet these aims, and while Scotland is making good progress, including generating a record amount of renewable energy, further deployment of clean, green generating technology is required.

In 2023, with rapid improvements in technology and national planning policy strongly supportive of renewable energy developments, the case for renewables is only growing stronger. The costs associated with mature technologies such as wind and solar are decreasing, while their capacity to generate electricity increases. Additionally, exciting new technologies are coming onto the market, creating new employment, education

opportunities and biodiversity net gain. Green hydrogen generation and Statkraft’s Greener Grid Parks, comprised of clean technologies which help provide grid stability, are great examples innovation in the industry which help address the energy crisis at the forefront of everyone’s mind today.

Statkraft is actively looking for new sites for renewable energy developments. Leasing land for renewables guarantees a reliable, steady income for

generations. It provides an opportunity for diversification, whilst maintaining current activities such as farming, forestry or stalking, and potential utilisation of unproductive land. If you would be interested in investigating the potential of your land for renewable energy developments free of charge, please do not hesitate to contact us on 0800 772 0232

(See our advert is this section of Farming Scotland Magazine).

Young company making an asset from farm waste

Somerset-based BioFactory are developing a modular anaerobic digester which can be scaled to any size of dairy farm. The company has been working with precision engineering and innovation experts Agri-EPI Centre, to develop and refine their system with a view to bringing it to the market.

Whereas anaerobic digesters – which ferment organic matter to produce biogas for heat and power generation – are well established in the industry, systems are often too costly and high-maintenance for most family farms.

Agri-EPI Centre have helped BioFactory access funding,

provided technical assistance, and introduced them to potential funders and advice to help them scale their product and sell it to dairy producers.

Having won funding from Innovate UK and Defra for a 12-month feasibility study via the Farming Innovation

Programme, BioFactory are now raising working capital to commercialise the company fully, while Agri-EPI Centre continue to provide analysis and consultancy.

Charlie Bowyer, business development manager for livestock and aquaculture at

Working to support Scottish farmers

By Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and Islands Mairi Gougeon

In February I attended the National Farmers Union Scotland AGM in Glasgow to speak about the government’s plans for agriculture reform.

It was great to see farmers and crofters from across Scotland meet in person once again for what is always a highlight in the rural calendar. The importance of coming together with peers to discuss shared interests should not be underestimated, particularly during challenging times.

I know the past year has been incredibly difficult for our farmers and crofters. I will do all that I can to support our rural, coastal and island businesses and communities, who continue show resilience in the face of covid impacts, EU Exit and now the cost crisis.

I have once again ensured there will be economic security with a direct cash injection of £630 million earmarked for the rural economy over the coming financial year.

While we work to support the sector today, we are also focussed on the future, as we transition to a support framework that realises our Vision for Scotland to be a global leader in sustainable and regenerative agriculture.

In my speech at the NFUS AGM I announced one of the transitional reforms we are introducing - a new payment scheme for farmers and crofters to improve the health and welfare of sheep and cattle.

Research shows healthy livestock produce less emissions, require less veterinary treatment and fewer antibiotics.

Together with the introduction of carbon audits and soil sampling last year, this scheme paves the way for a post-Brexit support framework for agriculture.

Our recently published route map for agricultural reform provides information on key dates for guidance, support and how and when current schemes will change. I hope it will give farmers and crofters some much-needed clarity and reassurance to help them plan and prepare for change.

I am confident that we can create a system that allows efficient and profitable businesses to deliver high quality food production in a way that delivers for climate and nature. I look forward to continuing to work collaboratively with the sector.

Agri-EPI Centre, said: “Slurry is nutrient-rich, and returning it to the soil is a vital part of circular agriculture. Anaerobic digestion is a great way to add value to it whilst retaining nutrients, reducing GHG emissions and becoming more energyindependent.

“Digestate has long been recognised as a high-quality fertiliser, and the heat and power created from biogas can create a meaningful income for farmers or reduce their energy bills. Commercial AD systems are simply out of reach for most dairy farms due to capital and operational costs, as well as barriers such as planning permission and a changed subsidy landscape since the “AD-boom” of the early 2010s.

“Working with young companies like BioFactory is Agri-EPI Centre’s bread and butter; helping them develop a good idea into a successful business and providing solutions to farmers at the same time.”

Jon Blake, chief commercial officer at BioFactory, said: “If you’re a dairy farmer, you will

always have slurry, but we can help turn it into an asset rather than a by-product. There is nothing to say that we can’t resolve farming’s impact on the environment as well. Our ethos is to build something simple and reliable for the dairy farmer. Our units are 40’-long shipping containers and easily scaled; if you want to increase your herd, you can simply add another reactor.

“We were so lucky to be in the right place at the right time. Our young company had been waylaid by Covid-19 when we came across a pot of funding for developing technology to help with net zero targets. Agri EPICentre helped us get hold of our grant and develop our product in real-life farming conditions.

“Even though the initial 12-month project has concluded, we are so pleased to continue our relationship with Charlie and his colleagues on laboratory analysis of the biodigestate, and with others at Agri-EPI Centre who are helping us with leveraging further funding and sales contracts.”

Jon Blake

Delivering a fair and secure zero carbon energy system

A route map to secure Scotland’s fastest possible fair and just transition away from fossil fuels has been published.

The draft ‘Energy Strategy and Just Transition Plan’ sets out a plan for Scotland’s renewables revolution to be accelerated as North Sea basin resources decline.

This would result in a net jobs gain across the energy production sector, with the potential to increase renewable energy exports and reduce exposure to future global energy market fluctuations.

Published as part of the draft Energy Strategy is a Just Transition Plan for the energy sector. This details the support being provided to grow

Scotland’s highly skilled energy workforce, increase jobs in energy generation and the supply chain, while enabling communities and businesses, particularly in the North East, to prosper.

Analysis shows the number of low carbon production jobs is estimated to rise from 19,000 in 2019 to 77,000 by 2050 as the result of a just energy transition, meaning there will be more jobs in energy production in 2050 than there are now.

The Strategy also sets out recommended actions for the UK Government to take in reserved policy areas, including powers relating to energy security, market mechanisms, network investment and market regulation.

Scottish Ministers have invited the UK Government to join an Energy Transition delivery group to drive forward the vision set out in the Strategy.

Net Zero & Energy Secretary Michel Matheson said:

“Scotland is an energy rich nation, with significant renewable energy resource, a highly-skilled workforce and innovative businesses across a globally renowned supply chain.

“The renewables revolution is global, as all countries seek to address concerns about climate change, and Scotland is at the forefront of this transition.

“At a time of unprecedented uncertainty in our energy sector, accelerating the transition

towards becoming a renewables powerhouse makes sense for a number of reasons – particularly to helping to mitigate against future global market volatility and the high energy prices which are making life so difficult for so many people across Scotland. For example, onshore wind is one of the most affordable forms of energy.

“While we do not hold all the powers to address these issues at source, this Strategy sets out how we can achieve an energy transition that ensures we have sufficient, secure and affordable energy to meet our needs, support Scotland’s economic growth and capitalise on future sustainable export opportunities.”

Popular trailing system newly launched as umbilical option

Vogelsang commits to efficient slurry management with a range of newly-launched machines as well as improvements and adaptations of current products to ensure ultimate efficiency.

Spreading technology has seen the popular UniSpread launched for the first time publicly as an umbilical system. The system has been predominantly marketed as a trailing shoe option, which offers great precision for slurry placement. This new version can be mounted directly to the tractor, while the slurry is pumped through an umbilical system. Vogelsang’s focus on this is to promote an option that can reduce overall weight in the field by eliminating the need for a slurry tanker. This option will be available in working widths of 7.5-10.5m.

Another focus on efficiencies for the farmer comes from the recently launched press screw separator - XSplit - a complete system solution which consists of the separator, a VX-series rotary lobe pump, a RotaCut wet cutter and control technology.

“It’s becoming increasingly important for our customers to get the most from digestate and slurry - as fertiliser for plant cultivation, as bedding, for soil improvement or for power generation in biogas plants. The separation technology

rounds out our portfolio for even more efficient management of digestate and liquid manure,” says Sion Williams, Agricultural Manager at Vogelsang.

The XSplit separation technology enables farmers and biogas plant operators to optimally separate slurry. The screw press separator achieves a dry substance content within the solids share of up to 40%, which makes it suitable for many different agricultural applications.

By repositioning the drive at the solid’s outlet, no extra shaft seal is required to the medium, greatly reducing wear costs and maintenance downtimes. Vogelsang says if you are looking to increase your efficiencies, then speak to the company today.

Vogelsang slurry spreader

XSplit UniSpread

Ffermio Cymru

NFU Cymru supports licensing scheme proposals in consultation response

NFU Cymru has supported proposals for a licensing scheme to lessen the detrimental impact that Welsh Government regulations governing water quality will have on Welsh food production.

In its formal response to Welsh Government’s Nutrient management – Managing the application of livestock manures sustainably consultation, NFU Cymru says the 170kg per hectare holding nitrogen limit from livestock manures element in the Water Resources (Control of Agricultural Pollution) (Wales) Regulations will negatively affect Welsh farming and the wider supply chain.

NFU Cymru has carried out an extensive engagement exercise with its boards and held a number of well-attended member meetings to canvas the opinions of Welsh farmers. In its response, NFU Cymru has welcomed Welsh Government’s proposals to bring forward a licensing scheme to allow higher levels of nitrogen from livestock manures in certain circumstances. In its response, NFU Cymru has set out clear evidence that shows an increase to a 250kg/ha annual holding nitrogen limit from livestock manures can be justified and will not damage the environment.

In addition to the union’s formal consultation response, over 1,400 farmers and members of the Welsh food supply chain have submitted their own responses to Welsh Government.

NFU Cymru President Aled Jones said: “The sheer volume of responses to this consultation from the Welsh food and farming sector highlights the importance of this matter to the industry. While

farmers have responded in great numbers, I am also pleased that our partners in the food supply chain have also submitted their own responses in support of the licensing system, outlining the sizeable impact the regulations will have on food production and the significant economic impact for rural businesses if the licensing system is not secured.

“This is borne out by AHDB modelling that shows, based on the available data, that to meet the current 170kg/ha nitrogen limit from livestock manures, the stocking density on Welsh dairy farms would need to reduce by 17%. Assuming that the stocking density is lowered strictly through reducing the number of animals, this could lead to an equivalent reduction in milk production of 336 million litres per annum.

“Although Welsh dairy farmers are likely to be the ones most impacted by the 170 kg/ha annual holding nitrogen limit from livestock manures, it is important to state that other sectors will be affected – directly and indirectly. The stocking limit imposed by

the regulations would reduce the likelihood of dairy farms to take in sheep over winter (tack), while a reduction in the number of dairy animals will have a knock-on effect on the levels of beef production in Wales. We also have significant concerns for farms affected by bovine TB.

“The consequences of the 170kg/ha nitrogen limit from livestock manures are all the more concerning given that they come at a time when many of our farming businesses are experiencing pressure on their margins due to the effects of agri-inflation and the cost of living crisis. The price index for farm inputs such as feed, fuel and fertiliser has increased by 22% in the last 12 months and many farms simply cannot absorb these increased costs and simultaneously see their earning capacity reduced so substantially. Global volatility is threatening the stability of the world’s food production, food security and energy security and it is clear that action is needed to protect our food producing capacity.“NFU Cymru welcomes

Welsh Government proposals to bring forward a licensing scheme where farmers can apply for a licence to increase the higher annual holding nitrogen limit from livestock manures up to 250kg/ha. NFU Cymru is clear that the development of the licensing scheme should follow the principles of good regulation, for example avoiding imposing unnecessary regulatory burden. As such, the process of applying for the licence should be as simple and straightforward as possible based on the approaches adopted in England and Northern Ireland.

“Based on the evidence, NFU Cymru strongly asserts that a licensing scheme can be justified on the basis of objective criteria. It will be central to an economically, environmentally, socially and culturally sustainable farming industry in Wales moving forward. We are pleased that Welsh Government has brought forward these proposals as part of the Co-operation Agreement with Plaid Cymru and we look forward to working with government to take them forward.”

Secretary of State for Wales addresses NFU Cymru

Welsh Council

Opportunities and challenges around agricultural trade were the key topics of discussion when Secretary of State for Wales David TC Davies spoke to farmers at NFU Cymru Welsh Council.

The RT Hon David TC Davies MP, Secretary of State for Wales, visited NFU Cymru Welsh Council in Cardiff on Monday 30th January to provide members with an overview of the trading

export picture for Welsh products, including PGI Welsh Lamb and PGI Welsh Beef.

Speaking after the meeting, NFU Cymru President Aled Jones said: “We are grateful to

the Secretary of State for Wales for attending NFU Cymru Welsh Council today. The meeting gave NFU Cymru members a useful opportunity to ask the Secretary of State for Wales about the makeup of the post-Brexit trade deals already agreed, as well as the opportunities to get Welsh products on the plates of consumers around the world in the future.

“It was pleasing to hear from the Secretary of State about the market openings that have been forged in the USA and Japan. NFU Cymru is also very pleased to see the recent appointment of eight new agri-food attachés, bringing the total number of attachés in British embassies to 11. Farmers are eager to learn how these new appointees can help us to access new markets and new consumers.

“During the discussions, members raised their concerns about the impact of the Australia and New Zealand trade deals on the home market. There was significant concern from PGI Welsh Lamb producers in the room, in particular, about reports of increased imports of New Zealand lamb putting pressure on the domestic lamb market at this time.

Over £22m Farming Connect support for Welsh famers

A new £22.9m Farming Connect programme will be available for farmers in Wales over the next two years to support them as they prepare to move to the new Sustainable Farming Scheme, Minister for Rural Affairs Lesley Griffiths announced today.

“NFU Cymru has long been concerned about the parliamentary scrutiny of trade agreements, believing like most other developed trading nations there should be the opportunity for our elected representatives to properly debate and scrutinise the detail of agreements in consultation with trusted industry stakeholders. We used today’s meeting to impress upon the Secretary of State that it is crucial that future trade deals are balanced, delivering opportunities for Welsh agrifood exports and ensuring that our high standards of food production are not compromised by imports that fail to meet our standards of production.”

Secretary of State for Wales David TC Davies said: “The farming and food sectors are incredibly important in Wales and our country is rightly recognised across the world for its high-quality produce.

“It was fantastic to meet the NFU Cymru Council and discuss the issues they are facing, but also to hear about how this vital industry can succeed and thrive for generations to come.”

FARMING SCOTLAND MAGAZINE

Next issue out May 2023

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Farming Connect offers business support, improves resilience, provides access to the latest innovations and helps develop farm businesses. It plays a key role in helping farms reach net zero carbon emissions through advice and support.

Since its launch in 2015 the current Farming Connect programme has supported over 26,500 individuals, including 12,615 businesses.

The new programme will run for two years until March 2025 and will focus on preparing farmers to transition to the new Sustainable Farming Scheme.

The over-arching themes for the new programme will be sustainability, improved environmental performance and greater global competitiveness.

The Minister made the announcement on a farm which has benefited from Farming Connect. Will and Sarah Evans at Lower Eyton Farm, Wrexham have diversified their farm business with support from Farming Connect and now supply fresh, organically grown, and seasonal vegetable boxes straight to a customer’s home. Watery Lane Produce includes

products from local suppliers and the farm.

The Minister said: “The new Farming Connect programme I am announcing today will support farmers in Wales at a key time. The new Sustainable Farming Scheme will begin in 2025, and Farming Connect will provide the support farmers need to prepare for the new scheme.

“Farming Connect is valued by the industry and I know its services will be crucial in the next two years as we prepare the way for the SFS. It will provide advice on how farming businesses can adapt and remain competitive.

“For the first time it will include a horticultural programme providing sector specific support for all rural growers, and a new ‘sheep genetics’ programme has been developed for sheep farmers.

“I know this is a challenging time for the industry, and the programme will provide valuable support as we move towards the SFS.”

Sarah Evans from Lower Eyton Farm said: “We have been very fortunate of the support we have received from Farming Connect so far. It all started with a digital workshop before moving onto becoming a member of an Agrisgôp group. I have now found a job I feel passionate about, I’m doing my bit for the environment and climate change, and I’m also educating my four children on all these important issues.”

Focus on grass varieties to suit your farm and soil

All farms experience different climates and challenges, and no more so than in Scotland, where longer winters and cooler conditions impact on grass growth and harvest timings. However, with careful management, growing the right grass varieties can increase yields, positively influence the environment, increase biodiversity, and provide animal health benefits, as Mhairi

Dawson, from leading grass breeder Barenbrug, explains.

“Over the last decade, grass seed technology has developed considerably and sowing these new varieties has increased the efficiencies of farms. Bringing a new grass variety to market can take 17 years from breeding, research and development, trials, and commercialisation, so benefiting from these advances will help farmers get more from their grass.”

Maximising the value of grassland this season could mean looking to modern grass varieties with specific attributes to suit a particular farm and system.

Selecting modern varieties to match the farming system can significantly increase production levels, says Ms Dawson.

Modern varieties

New grass varieties are bred with specific traits for disease resistance, drought tolerance and increased vigour, among many others, and understanding what characteristics will suit your farm can tailor forage to your system. Barenbrug has dedicated testing locations for agricultural grass varieties to assess performance, palatability, and persistency of these varieties, as Ms Dawson continues.

Increasing productivity and farm efficiency requires matching modern grass varieties with integrated management systems to drive real progress in foragebased dairy systems. To put that in context, Barenbrug has had 46 new grass varieties added to the Recommended Lists over the last 30 years, so it is likely that if you reseeded an area over eight years ago, then the genetics available will have improved and it is worth understanding if you can take advantage of this.”

Sowing different crops or a multi-species sward can increase biodiversity throughout the whole ecosystem, with diverse crops attracting a wide variety of insects, invertebrates, birds, and mammals alike.

Ryegrasses are the most common type of grass grown in the UK, and perennial ryegrass (PRG) mixtures can cater for all types of cutting and grazing systems. However, it is worth assessing your current sward as there could be new varieties that are better suited to your soil and system, explains Ms Dawson.

“Understanding what you want to achieve from a new crop is essential, whether it’s higher yield, increased protein, or better palatability – all can be enhanced by growing the correct varieties.”

Wider benefits

Moving away from a familiar grass variety can be a worry, but sowing species to help alleviate

specific animal health concerns could reduce exposure to external costs and make the business more resilient. Soft leaved tall fescues (SLTF), that help stimulate rumination, can be a real benefit.

Ms Dawson continues: “SLTF do not increase lignin content when mature, keeping crops highly digestible later in the year and high in feed value. Collaborative research with global animal nutrition experts, Nutreco, showed that with SLTF there were rumination increases compared to varieties of grass low in cell walls, such as Italian and perennial ryegrass,” commented Ms Dawson.

Farmers looking for specific animal nutrition benefits such as improved milk production, better fertility, and immunity, should

be considering species with Condensed Tannins (CT). Other benefits of CT include better protein utilisation and reduced rumen protein degradation, meaning lower ammonia gas production. “This leads to a reduction in methane (CH4) produced by directly affecting methane producing microbes in the gut, or indirectly by reducing fibre digestion, but these species should only be included at low proportions of a mix,” says Ms Dawson.

Plants containing CT include Bird’s-foot trefoil and Sainfoin, white and red clover flowers.

Regardless of the species, sward management is key to ensure the potential is achieved and to maintain resilience against external factors.

Sprayers…spreading it around!

Amazone

sprayers keep abreast of the demand for bigger tank sizes

Timeliness of application is the key to maximising yield, especially in those later applications, and growers are looking for increased outputs from a sprayer to keep on track with spraying programmes. Output comes from slicker turnaround times, wider boom widths and increased tank sizes for more acres between fills. The 2023 AMAZONE sprayer ranges help to maintain that timeliness through improved filling and mixing systems along with more boom and tank size options.

The UX 01 range of trailed sprayers now includes models for increased capacity with the new actual tank volume 8,000 and 9,000 litre, UX 7601 and 8601 long body sprayers - as well as the tandem axle UX 11201 with its 12,000 litre spray tank. The UX 7601 and 8601 sprayers feature a monocoque chassis which takes weight from the sprayer axle and pushes it forward onto the drawbar to increase traction and reduce the pulling power required. This also

minimises the ground pressure in the field as well as keeping the sprayer safe and legal on the road.

The well-proven L3 boom has now been extended to include 39, 40, 42 and 45 m working widths. The new wider widths come as standard with ContourControl and SwingStop. ContourControl uses a series of ultra-sound sensors and potentiometers to maintain working height along

each boom individually. When choosing 25 cm or 50 cm nozzle spacing, the boom guidance system automatically set the ride height to suit and maintains that position irrespective of speed and topography. SwingStop senses any boom tip movement and then uses clever electronics and hydraulic accumulators to damp any movement out preventing under- and over-spraying on the boom tips.

McConnel unveils next generation Agribuggy sprayer

Ludlow based manufacturer, McConnel has unveiled the next generation of its acclaimed, low ground pressure, self-propelled crop sprayer, the Agribuggy2 AB30.

Redesigned from the ground up, the all new Agribuggy features a new Stage-V compliant Cummins engine, heavier-duty drivetrain and larger 3000-litres capacity spray tank for greater performance, durability, and output.

With a ground pressure of just 8psi when the 3000-litre capacity tank is fully filled, the new Agribuggy AB30 remains the market leading light-footed

sprayer that allow growers to confidently treat crops in challenging ground conditions and allows for safe, productive working, earlier and later in the year.

Featuring a robust mechanical drivetrain, larger axles and allwheel drive the AB30 offers safe, surefooted traction with the added safety of a mechanical HP24 gearbox and differential to arrest descent with engine braking – a reassurance not available with sprayers reliant on hydrostatic drives. The new OMSI drive axles provide improved traction and handling with a generous 750mm ground

clearance when fitted with large diameter row-crop wheels.

Powered by a new, highperformance Cummins 3.8L 148HP turbo charged diesel engine, the powerplant is Stage V compliant to Euro emissions standards. Delivering 600Nm of torque at lower revs and utilising

an intelligent engine braking system, the new powerplant provides responsive power and performance both on the road and in the field.

Further performance optimisation provides exceptional fuel economy. Average daily consumption is circa 70 litres/day, a saving of up to

New features boost precision for Kverneland sprayers

Accuracy and precision continue to evolve for Kverneland’s extensive range of mounted and trailed sprayers following the development of several new features, all focused on harnessing technology.

There are three new optional features, which comprise SpotSpray; the introduction of a 25cm nozzle spacing option; and the next generation of Boom Guide ProActive boom height control.

65% compared to large hydrostatic sprayers. A larger 110 Litre fuel tank provides additional working range. To ensure fast, effective heat dissipation of the powerplant, high efficiency cooling packs featuring reversible fan drive provide efficient cooling at all temperatures and engine loads.

“We’re excited to bring these new innovations and enhancements to the proven Agribuggy format. By listening to users’ feedback, we’ve been able to increase efficiency, economy, performance, and functionality even further.”

Comments John Davis, Sprayer Sales Manager at McConnel.

SpotSpray technology is an extension of variable rate application maps. While such maps have been applicable to seed drills and fertiliser spreaders with task control, the same principle can be applied to Kverneland sprayers that are equipped with iXspray software, when combined with

iXflow Air/iXflow E individual nozzle control.

SpotSpray uses treatment maps that can populated with a zero application rate in addition to a prescribed application rate. By loading a treatment map into the control terminal, the sprayer automatically controls individual

nozzles through the SpotSpray software and GPS, following only the indicated areas on the treatment map.

These maps could be used to define weed spots, wet areas, non-germination areas and parts of a field with known soil problems. As a result, liquid

application costs can be reduced, further protecting healthy crops from unnecessary blanket applications.

With the introduction of a 25cm nozzle spacing option, lower boom heights can be achieved to further reduce spray drift to a minimum.

Merse Agriculture debuts the new G.S.M. 3000 sprayer in the UK

New to the market, importer Merse agriculture brings the Italian machine to the UK for its debut. Built around being lightweight, powerful, and comfortable to operate it is very much so an operator’s machine. The tie up between Merse and Grim allows for a machine to be built exactly how the customer requires it. Grim are supplying the chassis and running gear and Merse agriculture are suppling the sprayer components and the booms. It has been done this way to give customers exactly what they need and to minimise downtime due to the lack of spare parts around that seems to be affecting most suppliers.

The first machine sold has been a series 7 3000litre 24mtr machine. This tips the scales at 6800kg whilst packing an Iveco fpt 170hp engine its no slouch on the road or the field. Currently fitted with mechanical axles it can be specified with wheel motors depending on the application. The engine and drivetrain is mounted at the rear of the machine to keep the noise away from the cabin but also to maintain a lower and more stable machine due to the tank in behind the cabin which also offers better weight distribution.

This machine is a serious contender in the small lightweight market and is fully customisable to suit the

customers needs and pockets but also being future proof for

maintenance and equally just to simplify spraying in general.

Quicker cleaning and new nozzle design for Fendt Rogator

Fendt has updated its selfpropelled Rogator sprayer for 2023 with improved boom stability, electro-pneumatic nozzle bodies and a new ContiRinse system to reduce cleaning times. The new features will be available on all Rogator models – 645, 655 and 665 –with boom widths from 24-39m.

A redesigned plumbing system features a dedicated clean water pump, allowing a new ContiRinse system to cut overall rinsing times after spraying. The system works on two adjustable thresholds, with the first initiating cleaning of plumbing that contains chemical residues whilst the operator

continues spraying. The second threshold is closer to the end of the tank load and activates the full cleaning process as the tank empties. Sam Treadgold is sales engineer for sprayers at Fendt.

“ContiRinse is designed to reduce the downtime spent cleaning and rinsing the plumbing system. The additional clean water pump allows the pre-rinse cycle to happen whilst spraying and there is an auto pump shutoff, which switches off the main 785l/min pump after cleaning to prevent it running dry.”

All Rogator models are now fitted with new Altek electropneumatic nozzle bodies as

standard, which replace the fully electric Arag versions. These are compatible with Fendt’s OptiNozzle automatic nozzle

selection system and offer a single line Hypro five-way rotary, an Altek twin-line, and an Altek quad-line body.

Kuhns lightweight mounted sprayer offers high capacity

The KUHN Altis 2 mounted sprayer range offers tank capacities of 1,500 to 2,000 litres which can be further increased using KUHN’s PF front tank to reach a 3,500-litre capacity.

The PF front tank, available in 1,000 litre and 1,500 litre capacities, offers a versatile addition to KUHN’s range. The Altis 2 therefore offers a capacity comparable with many self-propelled machines. Dual tank management has the added advantage of carrying two different products at the same time, or the benefit of a clean water reservoir for additional or alternative operations.

Aluminium booms on the Altis are light and quick to unfold, in a

gullwing style, with five models featuring working widths between 15 to 28 metres. The frame, with its OPTILIFT parallelogram design, is also lightweight making the Altis suitable for a wide range of tractors.

The DILUSET cleaning function enables the cleaning of both tanks from the cab using a 190-litre front clean water tank and the 230-litre rear tank. This is of particular advantage to operators looking to change between products in the same day.

Auto shut-off on the Altis makes spraying small fields significantly easier and minimises overlaps on the headlands. This is controlled using KUHN’s VISIOREB terminal which

features a 7-inch screen to manage filling, spraying and rinsing. Further ease of use is offered by the EASY-HITCH automatic hitching

system and DILUSET cleaning function which instigates the cleaning of both tanks from within the cab.

Mazotti compact sprayers

Mazzotti’s compact, light, frontcab sprayers are available with variable ground clearance, hydraulically adjustable tread width and an Air Assist spray system.

In the past two years the brand has added a new compact high-capacity machine, the MAF 4080. This features a chassis with a longer wheelbase to enable the larger 4000-litre solution tank to be carried, while maintaining the ideal 50/50 weight distribution achieved by the smaller MAF models. The existing MAF 2580 (2500-litre capacity), 3180 (3000-litre) and 3580 (3500-litre) models got multiple upgrades, including a new solution system, a new wider range of spray booms, John Deere spray controls and a new John Deeresourced operator station.

The operator station has been designed for comfort and safety during long working days. A large glass area provides excellent visibility towards the crop and spray boom, while electronic climate control maintains a comfortable working environment. For 2022 larger 4240 (4000-litre), 5240 (5000-litre) and 6240 (6000-litre) MAF sprayers also use this new John Deere operator station.

A new range of MK spray booms from 24 to 36m wide, including a triple-fold 36/24m version, are now available for the Mazzotti MAF sprayers. Featuring a triangulated 3D steel construction, and with the stainless-steel spray lines protected within the structure, they are built for durability and a long working life.

Team Sprayers Lead the way with Service and Back-up

When it comes to efficient and accurate performance British sprayer manufacturer Team Sprayer say the on-farm set up is vital to ensure you’re getting the best out of your sprayer, which is why they guarantee personal set up with every GPS section controlled sprayer they sell in the UK.

The Ely based company are a family business and they pride themselves on manufacturing simple but easy to operate sprayers, yet say that they believe offering personal set up with every sprayer service is one of the key reasons for efficient performance of their sprayers.

East Lothian farmer Willie Robertson recently bought a Team Leader 4 sprayer and said the after sales service was one of the key reasons he went with Team. Mr Robertson said: “I was keen to buy a British sprayer as we had experienced difficulties getting parts for our previous machine which was European. Our Agricultural Engineer recommended Team and I’ve been really impressed with the machine and the service, they were great at coming back to us with any queries and Phil even came up to commission it for us. We opted for the 32m boom and a 4000litre tank and it’s got everything we need such as GPS

and variable boom geometry, but it’s simple to use and easy to get to the parts, which are all

off the shelf. I’m really pleased with it and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Team Sprayers”

HORSCH’s new Leeb FT is the intelligent front tank solution

HORSCH has introduced the new Leeb FT front tank, an intelligent spraying technology that mounts to a tractor’s 3-point linkage and offers additional spraying capacity. Available in 1200 litre and 1800 litre capacities, the Leeb 1.2 FT and 1.8 FT provides an ideal complement to the brand’s recently launched Leeb CS rearmounted sprayer.

Design of the Leeb FT has been carefully considered with compact dimensions and an optimised centre of gravity. When combined with the Leeb CS, it offers up to 4000 litres of spraying capacity in a highly flexible and manoeuvrable format. The Leeb FT uses a standard coupling triangle to ensure short set-up times and easy handling without the need to manually couple hydraulic lines.

The Leeb FT Basic can be used as an additional water tank

with a 2” suction line towards the rear, without agitator and cleaning. It can be combined

with all trailed Leeb models. The higher specification Leeb FT Pro is completely integrated into the

software and the water circuit of the Leeb CS and features its own agitator and cleaning.

Nofence virtual fencing technology wins LAMMA Silver Innovation Award

Opportunities to capitalise on the carbon cycle benefits of grazing livestock without the challenges of physical fencing is a key feature of Nofence virtual fencing that won it silver in the 2023 LAMMA Innovation Awards.

“The LAMMA Innovation Award judges were impressed by the Nofence entry as a highly innovative solution to the costs and practical difficulties of traditional fencing, using sophisticated collars to determine position with active feedback to both animals and via an app to staff, says Chris Rothery, Chair of the LAMMA Innovation Awards. “This promises to be a useful weapon in the moves towards low carbon livestock farming.”

Established in Norway in 2011 for mountain grazers, Nofence has recently become commercially available to

UK livestock producers after a successful grazing trial on British beef farms.

Utilising GPS, farmers can create virtual pastures on the Nofence app. Once livestock are turned out on the set virtual pasture while wearing a Nofence collar, GPS and a mobile data network track the animal’s location, triggering the collar to cue an audio signal as the animal nears the virtual fence boundary. If the animal breaches the virtual boundary following the audio cue, the collar administers a pulse. In the event of an escape, farmers receive a pop-up notification via the Nofence app with the location of the animal. The animal can return to the pasture without the collar issuing any audio or a pulse.

For Welsh livestock farmer and Farming Connect mentor Hywel Morgan, virtual fencing technology has been pivotal in

the ability to utilise livestock for upland habitat regeneration and fire control as part of a commercial beef operation.

Two years ago, Mr Morgan invested in the technology to take advantage of grazing opportunities on 26,000 acres of unfenced common land in the Brecon Beacons. Currently, 40 head of primarily Highland, Highland cross Shorthorns and Highland cross Hereford cows with calves at foot are on the common ground with Nofence collars.

“Nofence has allowed me to improve grazing utilisation and conservation efforts on this vast acreage by containing the herd in virtual pastures that range from 50-100 acres and working with natural water and shelter resources,” he says. “Aside from habitat improvement in this area, the ability to better utilise the common land has allowed

me to reduce hay and haylage consumption for a better return on the herd.”

Future of virtual fencing

According to Synne Foss Budal, General Manager for Nofence UK, conservation grazing and commercial livestock producers will continue to have more management opportunities as the technology develops.

“Virtual fencing technology is already changing the grazing landscape by allowing livestock producers to efficiently and cost-effectively improve grazing management without the use of physical fencing,” says Ms Budal. “The technology will continue to evolve and improve as we collect more data and customer feedback. We’re excited about what opportunities Nofence has brought to so many grazers and what the future holds.”

Scotland’s iconic beef herd set to shrink further while flock size could increase

NFU Scotland’s 2023 Intentions Survey, which closed back in January, has pointed to further shrinkage in Scotland’s iconic beef sector, with many farmers reducing cow numbers alongside indications that some are replacing them with sheep.

The survey, supported by Quality Meat Scotland, was set up to assess the scale of change that unprecedented input costs and flatlining output prices are having on business plans across all sectors.

Analysis of responses to the survey from livestock farmers and crofters points to an average beef herd size reduction of four per cent versus last year, but an average increase in flock size of two per cent.

According to the Scottish Government agricultural census, between 2011 and 2021, there was a 12 per cent decline in the total Scottish beef herd to 413,000 cows. Over the same period, the Scottish ewe flock has fallen by less than three per cent to 2.57 million ewes in 2021.

The analysis of responses to NFU Scotland’s Intentions Survey indicates that, to improve resilience, livestock farmers and crofters are already reducing fertiliser usage; increasing the amount of home-grown feeds; incorporating nutrient management plans to improve soil fertility and increasingly outwintering stock rather than housing them over the colder months. That highlights how the industry is proactively adapting to and mitigating the impacts of soaring input costs.

In terms of making a difference, an increase in price at slaughter and retail would be the most helpful for beef and sheep farmers. Respondents are also supportive of an increased marketing drive around Scotch beef and lamb.

Other mechanisms highlighted as being helpful included: Greater clarity from Scottish Government on how future support for beef and sheep producers will be delivered and what conditionality will be attached to payments; developing

greater cooperation between producers, and improving access to technology to improve herd/ flock performance and resilience to continue to deliver on food.

Discussions with other farmers, vets and advisors were deemed the best way of gathering information on how to improve their business. On-farm events were noted as helpful and valuable to livestock farmers echoing the NFU Scotland Livestock Committee’s support for the new monitor farm programme.

Livestock Committee chair Hugh Fraser, a beef and sheep producer from Scaniport, near Inverness said: “The intentions survey provided a great base of evidence particularly for our beef and sheep sectors.

“For far too long we have anecdotally discussed the decline in beef cow numbers in Scotland. These results highlight the scale and depleting confidence levels of beef-producing members.

“All livestock businesses are unique in that we are making

business decisions which we will not see the returns from for two to three years. That is why it is imperative that the industry is given support and clarity from the Scottish Government on the future so that we can confidently invest in our farms. The results highlight how we are a proactive and innovative sector which is willing to adapt to provide high quality, sustainable red meat if given the support and fair returns from the supply chain.

“The Scottish livestock sector must be acknowledged for the critical role it plays in a sustainable healthy diet, supporting domestic food security, and supporting biodiversity. NFUS urges the Scottish Government to bare this in mind when designing future support to ensure beef and sheep farmers can reach their full potential while continuing to deliver high quality food and supporting ambitions around addressing climate and biodiversity.”

Canadian Aberdeen-Angus breeder urges farmers to think outside the box

Canadian Aberdeen-Angus breeder

Arron Nerbas encouraged UK beef farmers to ‘challenge tradition’ at the recent British Cattle Breeders Conference.

Mr Nerbas said many farmers had probably heard of the phrases: ‘that works for us’ or ‘that is how we have always done it’.

He said these can be the most expensive words in farming because they make people resistant to change.

“Tradition is very much entrenched in farming, but we need to be open-minded and consider our options as we move forward,” he urged.

Mr Nerbas runs 75 purebred and 475 commercial AberdeenAngus cows across 2,023ha (5,000 acres) in Manitoba, Canada.

Mr Nerbas and his brother, Shane, have been practising regenerative and holistic grazing principles since 2005 – ideas he says his parents, Cynthia and Gene, have embraced, but would not have considered when they started farming.

This means they have a small 575kg cow, on average, that can thrive off grass and outwinter on bale grazing for four months in daytime temperatures of -30C, with no fertiliser used.

“The key benefits are healthy soil, increased resilience to drought and increased biodiversity,” explained Mr Nerbas.

Pre-calving trace element bolusing supports calf and cow health and performance

EnduraBol Pre-Calver and EnduraBol High Iodine provide tailored supplementation for pre and post calving cows and heifers

Spring calving beef and dairy herds are approaching a critical period for trace element supplementation, says Emily Hall, product manager for Nettex.

“The majority of foetal development takes place in the six to eight weeks leading up to calving. A huge amount of nutritional stores are going to go towards foetal development, requiring supplementation during this period of essential trace elements and vitamins to support adequate growth, health and reproduction of both the dam and her calf,” explains Ms Hall.

With the addition of EnduraBol Pre-Calver and EnduraBol High Iodine to Nettex’s EnduraBol Cattle bolus

range, cattle farmers have new options for their trace element supplementation programmes.

EnduraBol Pre-Calver consists of two boluses that provide a sustained release of six trace elements and three vitamins for up to 120 days. Nutrients include high levels of copper, zinc, iodine, cobalt, selenium, manganese and vitamins A, D3 and E.“For dams, the balance of these nutrients will reduce calving issues,

Scottish vets welcome new farm payment scheme to support animal health and welfare

The British Veterinary Association’s (BVA) Scottish Branch has welcomed the new farm payment scheme announced by Scotland’s Rural Affairs Secretary

Mairi Gougeon on Friday

10 February as part of the Scottish Government’s postBrexit future framework for sustainable agriculture.

Under the scheme, farmers and crofters who rear cattle and sheep will be able to claim a £250 payment for veterinary health and welfare interventions from this summer.

Responding to the announcement, BVA Scottish Branch President Romain Pizzi said:

“The Scottish Government’s new farm payment scheme will support better livestock health and welfare in Scotland and provide welcome opportunities for vets to further engage with farmers and crofters rearing sheep and cattle.

“BVA would like to see the vet-farmer relationship embedded as the cornerstone in Scotland’s permanent future farming policy, to help deliver improved animal health and welfare, productivity, and sustainability goals.”

aid in quicker recovery after calving and support hormone production for better conception rates,” she explains. “Unborn calves will optimise growth and development and have support in developing a healthy immune system.”

For cattle on primarily forage diets, especially those consuming brassicas and legumes, EnduraBol High Iodine is recommended. Also consisting

of two boluses, EnduraBol High Iodine contains high levels of copper, zinc, cobalt, selenium, manganese and vitamins A, D3 and E, and has an average daily supply of 17.60mg of iodine to overcome likely deficiencies.

“Iodine is not stored within the body, therefore a continuous supply from the diet is required for normal production of the thyroid hormones, which control energy metabolism and metabolic rate. If deficient, calving can be delayed and slowed, calves can have poor vigour and the risk of stillbirths increases,” says Ms Hall. “Pastures and forages are often deficient in iodine, while brassicas and legumes contain compounds that block iodine absorption – therefore requiring a higher level of supplementation in some circumstances.”

Global red meat trade flows set to remain firm in 2023

Farmgate cattle and pig prices have reached a new record high as the lamb trade struggles to match levels of early 2021 and 2022, according to the latest market commentary from Quality Meat Scotland (QMS).

Forecasts from leading agriculture analysts point to further instability in the global red meat market in 2023 from both the supply and demand sides, with increased trade flows required to bring markets back towards balance.

Iain Macdonald, QMS Market Intelligence Manager, explained: “Set against slightly reduced world output, global beef demand

is forecast to remain resilient despite economic headwinds, with consumption almost unchanged. For this to happen, mismatch between supply and demand at country-level means that global trade in beef will need to rise significantly.”

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has forecast a 0.3% reduction in world production to 59.2 million tonnes in 2023. This is despite beef production being projected to surge by 17% in Australia, as its beef sector continues to rebound from a drought-induced herd liquidation in 2018 and 2019, plus expectations of 2-3% output

growth for major producers Brazil, Mexico and China, and a 1% increase in the UK.

Offsetting these gains is a forecast 6.5% fall in output in the USA, the world’s largest beef producer, where drought in key calf producing states was followed by elevated cow slaughter and then fewer young cattle being placed in feedlots. Small declines have also been modelled for Argentina, New Zealand, Canada, Japan and the EU.

Iain said: “Imports are set to reach 18% of global consumption in 2023, up from 17.7% in 2022 and well above the 16.1% level seen in the pre-pandemic year of 2019. The combination of a relatively tight global beef market and increased trade points to firm beef prices.

“China and Hong Kong will be the main drivers, with an expected 1.5% rise of import volumes as they reduce covid restrictions domestically and re-open to overseas tourists and businesspeople. While China and Hong Kong are set to collectively

account for more than 80% of the net increase in beef imports, tight supply is also projected to boost imports to the USA and Japan, while strong demand in Korea is expected to fuel a further lift in imports despite higher domestic output.”

In contrast to the beef sector, the USDA projects global pork output to edge 0.3% higher to 114.1m. This would see the recovery from African Swine Fever (ASF) in China and South East Asia continue, taking production almost 20% above its 2020-low. However, consumption growth is set to outpace this, requiring a slight increase in global imports.

Since China accounts for 48% of world production, just over half of consumption and 21% of imports, it is set to remain an important driver of global pork market conditions. A slight rise in imports has been pencilled in; though, at 2.1m tonnes, volumes would remain well below the highs of 2019-21, where shipments had peaked at 5.3m tonnes in 2020.

However, there is considerable uncertainty around the outlook in China, with the persistent market volatility of recent years continuing into 2023. Wholesale pork prices in China doubled between April and October 2022, but then declined by 35% between the beginning of November and lateJanuary, suggesting a marked improvement in supply since the autumn. A rebound in imports has contributed to the change in market conditions, with monthly volumes picking up through Q4

2022 and managing to show yearon-year growth in December.

Away from China, rising pork production has been forecast in Brazil, Japan, Mexico, the USA and the Philippines in 2023, whereas declines are projected in Canada, South Korea, the EU and the UK. However, with a rising cost of living pressuring disposable incomes across much of the world, pork’s position as a competitively priced protein has led the USDA to project increased consumption and/or imports in most of these countries and regions.

Alpaca and llama owners urged to make their voices herd

The growing popularity of keeping llamas and alpacas has prompted the launch of a new initiative aimed at creating a better understanding of the camelid sector in Scotland.

Researchers at Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) are leading the project to find out more about the camelid species which, in addition to llamas and alpacas, includes guanacos and vicuñas.

The number of people breeding camelids in Scotland has increased over the years with specialist farms also providing treks and other alpaca and llama experiences.

SRUC scientists at the Inverness-based Centre for

Epidemiology and Planetary Health and the Roslin Institute in Edinburgh, will investigate how keepers in Scotland record information about their animals, including those they buy and sell.

It will also assess what issues matter to the people who care for them so their opinions can be considered when policy decisions are formed.

The project, funded by the Scottish Government as part of its Strategic Research Programme, aims to ensure Scotland fulfils its requirements in relation to the recording and monitoring of animal health and welfare, to align with best practice in other developed countries.

Madeleine Henry, a Veterinary Epidemiologist at SRUC, said: “The camelid sector is growing in Scotland, but the current extent and the needs of our camelid population are less visible than those of other species kept on

farms, crofts, paddocks and smallholdings.

“We are asking camelid keepers to tell us more about their animals, to allow better assessment of potential methods of future support for the sector in Scotland.”

Scientific partnership focuses on water quality and animal health

Scientific collaborations to improve water quality in Scotland have delivered big wins for public and animal health.

The first in a new series of case studies, developed as

part of the RHASS Presidential Initiative, will look at how a partnership between the Moredun Research Institute and Scottish Water, led to improved water quality, animal disease

control and habitat creation, within the Glenlivet region, in the Scottish Highlands.

Historically high levels of Cryptosporidium spp. were detected in samples from Tomnavoulin’s drinking water supply. At the time cattle, sheep and red deer were able to access the drinking water supplies source water. Moredun scientists made the link with high incidences of neo natal calf disease in the Glenlivet area and took steps to gather and analyse data to understand the scale of the problem.

Together with Scottish Water, they worked with farmers, offering advice and support on disease control and guidance on better land management, such as fencing off watercourses and rebuilding riverbanks, to minimise the impact on drinking water quality.

In the past eight years, Cryptosporidium spp. detection rates in the water supply have subsequently dropped. In 2022, Scottish Water’s sampling data returned only two positive detections of Cryptosporidium spp. in raw (source) water samples, compared with 73 in 2014.

Microbiologist James Green, from Scottish Water, explained: “Our key driver for this project was to improve the quality of water courses and reduce the risk of disease transmission to benefit public health.

“The drop in Cryptosporidium spp. detections is down to changes in the environment, whether that is land management changes,

New Monitor Farm programme

changes in farming techniques or changes due to climate or other environmental factors.

“Working closely with farmers and landowners has been critical to improving raw water quality across the whole of Scotland and will remain vital moving forward. If we can improve the quality of raw water, then it means we can use less energy and chemicals during the treatment process, when we purify it for safe human consumption.”

Moredun scientist Beth Wells led the project at the time and pointed out that getting on top of disease, delivered a multitude of other benefits for society.

“We have always known that if you can get on top of animal health you can also make inroads in other areas, such as emissions reductions, and in this case, improving water quality and boosting biodiversity by improving local riparian habitats.

“Water quality is one of the founding principles of safe food and drink production and the role science plays within that cannot be understated. If we can join up the science with good animal husbandry and land management practices, then it is a win-win for animal health, the natural environment and protecting Scotland’s most valuable natural resource, water.”

Honorary President, Ian Duncan Millar highlighted that the work carried out between Moredun and Scottish Water, perfectly exemplifies the Presidents’ Initiative for 2023, honing in on ‘The Science of Food and Drink’.

Nine farms across Scotland have been selected for the new Monitor Farm programme, managed by Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) with support from AHDB, and funded by Scottish Government.

The four-year programme aims to help farms reach full economic, social and environmental sustainability through optimising production. Between now and 2026, farmers, the wider agricultural industry and experts will be brought together to assess each farm’s performance, opportunities and to develop solutions for the challenges they face.

The first series of meetings has just finished, with more than 570 people attending the nine farms which reach across Scotland from Roxburghshire to Islay and Dumfries to Strathspey. For each, a morning visit to the Monitor Farm was followed by lunch and a discussion session held locally, with each farm supported by one of three QMS regional advisers –Peter Beattie, Christine Cuthbertson and Maura Wilson.

Key challenges facing Monitor Farm hosts include profitability, productivity, business planning and succession. Attendees highlighted tens of

things each farm was doing well and made suggestions for changes to boost efficiency and tackle the issues they face.

Across the farms, initial discussions have included everything from tightening suckler herd calving periods and targeting rations more effectively, to making better use of information collected on-farm to drive decisionmaking and having a better understanding of soil health.

Follow-up meetings will be held with a group of 12 or more volunteers for each farm – known as the Management Group. They will also be involved in data collection and use on their own units, as well as providing support for the Monitor Farm. A programme of summer meetings, held jointly, will be open to everyone, as will other open Monitor Farm gatherings over the four-year initiative.

Beth Alexander, Monitor Farm Programme Manager says: “The journeys the nine farms will go on will be as unique as the farms themselves.

“The units reflect the diverse tapestry of livestock and mixed farming across Scotland, so wherever you are based, you can follow a Monitor Farm with similar opportunities and challenges.”

Wynnstay alter layer diets to reduce phosphate excretion

Recent changes to Wynnstay poultry diets have shown a 13.4% reduction in poultry phosphate excretion can be achieved through simple diet changes, which lowers the levels of monocalcium phosphate (MCP) required.

Wynnstay head of poultry, Jim Turner, says that following concerns around phosphate contamination from poultry farms, the company has adapted rations to reduce phosphate requirements and therefore reducing potential excretion into the environment.

“Following the addition of a triple dose of a phytase enzyme in all layer diets, on average, there’s been a 10.4% reduction in total phosphorus content in the diet and a 13.4% reduction in phosphorus excretion per bird per year, achieved by birds mobilising bound phosphorus from the raw materials,” explains Mr Turner.

“As a result, the inclusion of MCP can be reduced,” he adds.

Mr Turner says, that MCP is a finite resource that is more expensive than it has been historically.

“It’s important to have an alternative option that doesn’t affect the cost of the ration or the performance of the bird, and therefore the most economic and sustainable option is to increase the dose of the phytase enzyme.”

Eloise Lawlor poultry nutritionist at Premier Nutrition, has been working alongside Wynnstay to make these changes to the diet.

She adds that a large proportion of phosphorus found in poultry diets is in the form of phytate phosphorus which is indigestible and an anti-nutritional factor (ANF).

“ANF’s can influence nutrient utilisation, so reducing the level of MCP and where suitable incorporating a triple dose of a phytase enzyme, helps to increase

calcium and phosphate availability and utilisation. This results in improved feed efficiency and reduces the amount of phosphorus being bypassed and excreted by the bird,” explains Ms Lawlor.

She says that with MCP being a finite resource and phosphate contamination high on the agenda,

making changes to the diet which will result in an overall increase in efficiency while protecting bird health, welfare and the environment is a win-win. For more information on Wynnstay’s poultry offering, please visit https://www.wynnstay. co.uk/poultry-feed.

Updated 2023 Code of Practice for safe animal feed delivery goes online

The Agricultural Industries Confederation (AIC) has revised the AIC Code of Practice for Making Safe Deliveries of Animal Feed to Farms to an online version that can be found on the AIC website.

The code, endorsed by the Farm Safety Partnership was originally developed in support of a UK-wide feed industry initiative started in 2012 with the objective of securing significant improvements in the safety of delivery drivers who are working for, or on behalf of, animal feed companies.

The Farm Safety Partnership is a collaboration of organisations including NFU, NFU Mutual, HSE and CLA with a responsibility to show industry leadership by promoting safe systems of work

within all sectors of agriculture.

Commenting on the update, AIC Technical Manager David Moss said, “The updated Code of Practice is designed to give advice to farmers, feed manufacturers and feed merchants, on safe deliveries to the farm and is primarily targeted at deliveries of animal feed products. However any delivery made to a farm customer’s premises should be planned to ensure that, following a risk assessment of the site, which includes consideration of the product being delivered, the vehicle to be used, and the manufacturers product safety information, a safe system of work is implemented to manage the delivery”.

The agricultural sector has the worst fatal accident rate of any

major industrial sector. The UK animal feed industry is committed to playing their part in helping to reduce this unacceptable situation.

“With fewer people present on farms, delivery drivers are often working alone making deliveries out of normal working hours” adds Mr Moss. “As an industry we need to do everything we can to ensure anyone working on farms are doing so in as safe a way as possible and this code of practice provides a well-tested blue print to ensure risk is managed in a sensible way”.

The code is easy to follow and provides clear areas for consideration and action covering all types of deliveries to farm:

“The code supports the UK wide initiative of the Farm Safety Partnership and I’m delighted to say that it is now accessible through the AIC Website“concludes Mr Moss.

For further information or any questions please contact AIC Technical Manager David Moss at david.moss@agindustries. org.uk.

Code of practice

Study looks at impact of ferrying livestock

By NFU Scotland President Martin Kennedy

The long running failure of the UK Government to introduce post-Brexit Border controls on meat entering the UK continues to leave farmers and crofters exposed to another ‘Horsegate’ and the introduction of devastating animal diseases such as African Swine Fever according to pig producer Jamie Wyllie.

NFU

The UK Government has now ‘kicked the can down the road’ on Border controls until January 2024. It has so far failed to guarantee that a robust, reliable system delivering proper border checks on food, with addition measures verifying the health and safety of meat products will be delivered in a year’s time.

Since the UK left the EU, Westminster has had wholly inadequate border controls in place for checking meat and other products entering our country. Amongst all the chaos of securing a ‘Brexit deal’ the mechanics of how border controls would operate was somehow lost with no thought given to

having the infrastructure and staff in place to manage controls when the split finally happened. A system has been promised but the deadline for when the system would be available has been repeatedly pushed back by the UK Government.

The new legislative timeline requires an operational system to be in place by the end of January 2024, a significant delay from the Brexit date in January 2021.

The longer there is no system in place, the greater the distortion of the market for UK producers –with importers facing less bureaucracy that those looking to export meat from the UK to EU - and the longer our borders are left unprotected against the introduction of livestock diseases, such as African Swine Fever (ASF), into the UK herds and flocks.

In addition, prominent scientist Chris Elliot, who headed up Defra’s investigation into the ‘Horsegate’ scandal in

2017 has stated in recent weeks that our Borders are once again wide open to food fraud and illegal meat imports.

The threat is real. In a Border Force operation last year, 22 vans were checked with 21 identified to have illegal meat on board, apparently for personal consumption, in various condition and from countries not allowed to export to the UK due to ASF. This was a great sting for Border Force and hopefully will dissuade people from illegally bringing in meat, but this sort of checking needs to be carried our more regularly to make a real impact, and checks are needed on commercial imports to ensure they are what they say they are.

Whilst the delays in UK Government introducing border controls remain hugely frustrating for the industry, we hope they mean there will ultimately be a ‘fit for purpose’ system, when it does come into play.

The Government has less than 12 Months to get it right.

The impact of ferry journeys on livestock being transported between the Northern Isles and the mainland will be assessed as part of a new project aiming to maximise animal welfare while avoiding significant constraints on this important trade.

Several journeys are often required during an animal’s life to allow access to better grazing, trade in breeding stock, or for fattening, transport to markets and slaughter.

However, there is little objective scientific evidence to understand how cattle and sheep are affected by journeys involving ferry transport, and whether management and practices can be modified to improve animal welfare.

The project, led by Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC), will combine analysis of existing data on animal transports and specific data collection on several ferry crossings where temperature, humidity and motion measures of the vessel will be correlated with animal behavioural responses during and after the journey.

The project will specifically focus on the movement of animals from Orkney and Shetland to Aberdeen - from leaving the farm of origin to arriving at the market or destination farm and including sea freight journeys typically of between 9-15 hours.

Although some journeys are for slaughter, most are made in the autumn to meet the need to provide livestock with adequate nutrition during winter months, when available forage, housing and supplementary feeds are limited in the Northern Isles.

www.nfus.org.uk

This flow of animals is an integral part of the sustainability of island communities and to meet the legal requirements

Martin Kennedy

for livestock journey times at sea, the animals are loaded onto specially designed one or two-deck cassettes. These cassettes allow for the provision of food and water as well as providing controlled ventilation and effluent collection and facilitating inspection of the animals in transit.

Lead researcher Professor Simon Turner, of SRUC’s Animal Behaviour and Welfare Research Group, said: “Livestock transport is an essential part of agricultural practices - if these animals do not make these journeys, there

is a welfare risk of prolonged hunger from inadequate feeding, or housing in crowded conditions on their home farms. However, it is important that the welfare of animals during the ferry transport is maximised as much as possible.

“Currently, only limited information is available relating weather conditions and sea state to the actual motion of vessels over an extended period. Anecdotal evidence suggests animals generally travel very well in the cassette system but may sometimes appear ‘tired’ when they have made rough crossings, suggesting that factors like sea and weather conditions are likely to impact on livestock welfare.

“Being able to provide evidence-based advice on when animal welfare will be most impacted by journey conditions will be important for providing animal welfare policy that protects livelihoods as well as animal welfare.

94% of bull buyers confirm they will purchase further simmental bulls

A fantastic ninety four percent of Simmental bull buyers have confirmed that they will purchase further Simmental bulls at future Society sales. That’s the strong endorsement of the Simmental breed following a snapshot survey of bull buyers at Society Sales held between 2017 and 2019.

The survey saw buyers through these years being sent a detailed questionnaire covering the initial reasons for purchasing a Simmental, and thereafter how satisfied they have been with the abilities and

the performance of their bulls to date. A broad range of questions invited respondents to score and comment on the performance of bulls bought, including: calving ease; temperament of the bulls and their progeny; fertility and serving capacity; longevity and physical condition of the bull; and performance of progeny, including growth rates and perceived food conversion. Further questions asked buyers about the most important traits when buying a Simmental; the principle purpose of the bull; use on heifers;

The VET

Give your calves the best start possible

the importance of herd health information, pre-sale inspections, performance figures, and pre-sale fertility testing.

Unsurprisingly maternal traits featured highly in the characteristics of the Simmental breed most attractive to buyers, including: mothering ability and easy calving; milk; producing replacement heifers; and fast-growing progeny. The top characteristic for buyers was temperament and this was emphasised later in the survey with a total of 97.18% saying that the temperament of their bulls was

good (88.73%), or average (8.45%), and with 92.53% saying that the temperament of the progeny was very good or good. Across these two categories less than 5% of purchasers responded that the bulls or their progeny had been below average for temperament.

Just over 70% of buyers indicated that performance figures and EBVs were a ‘quite’ or ‘very’ important aid when purchasing a bull. Of the traits, EBVs for calving ease were ranked the most important and with Maternal (Milk), a close second.

By Madeleine Brady Northvet Veterinary Group

What if I told you there was a product available that gives your calves the best start in life, is tailored specifically to your farm, protects them from disease, gives them energy and also freezes and stores well? You would want some wouldn’t you?

Of course I am talking about colostrum and your cows are already making it for you – but it is up to us to ensure it is of the best quality and gets into the calf within the right time frame!

The 5 Qs are criticalQuantity, Quality, Quickly, sQueaky Clean and Quantify. Quantity and Quickly – calves should receive 10% of their bodyweight within 4 hours of birth –relatively straightforward in a dairy unit but becomes more problematic on beef farms. Suckling for 20mins is approximately equal to an intake of 2 litres of colostrum.

Quality – colostrum quality varies between cows and heifers are known to have poorer colostrum. A Brix refractometer is a very simple

cow-side test to ensure the quality is acceptable. A drop of colostrum on the glass and the scale should read over 22%. If not then consider a supplement. Quality is closely linked to nutrition in the later stages of pregnancy –getting your vet to run some bloods to check protein and energy balance in late gestation is a good idea.

sQueaky Clean –hygiene is very important, we don’t want calves getting sick from poorly stored colostrum, dirty udders, or transmitting Johnes through the colostrum.

Quantify – Keep an eye on the colostrum quality with a refractometer but also blood test a random sample of baby calves to find out how good your colostrum management is.

Treat your cows well and they’ll produce liquid gold –colostrum with the right mix of antibodies to the pathogens present on your farm- ensure it gets into the calves quickly and your calves will get the best start possible!

Which irrigation system gives the best results in all conditions?

By Anthony Hopkins, Wroot Water Ltd

While on a potato study tour in June 2019, we travelled around Washington state in the North west where there are 165’000 ac of potatoes produced with an average yield of 35 ton per acre!

This is in an area with an average rain fall of 10”.

Looking at the irrigation 95% was over head using centre pivot irrigation, this is something I had seen on a previous study tour in the same are in 1999, however back then they were not getting the same yield and using more water with some soil erosion.

From what I have seen in dry times the potato crop does not mind been watered from overhead, however it does not like to much water all at once, if the potato crop get to much water at the wrong time then the crop becomes stressed, this is when the plant is susceptible to disease.

Looking at all the irrigation systems available for field crops in the U.K. it is important to look which system is the most versatile for all crops and 95% of irrigation in the U.K. is over head with a rain gun.

If we look at the other irrigation systems used here in the U.K., we have single season drip.

This is a good system to deliver water into the crop root zone and particularly good for getting a good skin finish.

However, this system has it limitations on soil type, topography, equipment to lay and retrieve the tape, and in certain areas vermin can be a problem. However, the management in the season can be very easy. It is very important that the drip system is designed correctly taking friction loss in the pipes into account

as the system operates on low pressure. (0.6-0.8bar)

Multi-season drip tape this can is similar to above but if the retrieval is done properly this tape can be used for several crops, reducing the cost of the drip tape per ac.

Multi-season hard hose drip, this is a drip system that is mainly used on processing potatoes with one pipe laid between two rows of potatoes on top of the ground.

This hard hose drip pipe is usually pressure compensated meaning that at a certain pressure the emitters on the drip pipe emit the same amount of water, this system also requires special equipment to lay and retrieve the pipe.

Typically, these systems are sold to last 10 years with easy management after the initial set up. The hard hose drip system operates between (2.5-4bar)

Hose reel this is the most common irrigation system used in the U.K. today and works well in the correct conditions.

The hose reel is quite easy to set up in the field doing 3-4 Ha / 12 hours one of the big benefits is that hose reels are very flexible.

They do operate at 8 to 10 bar pressure, can be uneven if used in high winds.

Hose reel and boom these are similar to above but using less pressure 6-8 bar the uniformity is better in windy conditions.

The system which is the closest to the to the centre pivot been able to water the crops every 2 to three days over head are solids set sprinklers.

These are a big investment; however, they will last for 10 years plus with the correct handling.

The benefits of solid set sprinklers is that you do not require specialist equipment to lay them out in the field, or collect them up at the end of the season.

Once set up in the crop they are there for the season and apply 5-6mm/hour operating at 4bar pressure. It is very important to get the sprinklers working at the correct pressure, if they are not operating at the correct pressure you can get uneven watering which will show up in the crop as

light coloured where the crop has had more water, this can be around the sprinkler if the sprinklers are switched on/off to frequently.

One of the biggest benefits of sprinklers is that are able to cool the crop canopy in hot conditions, they cover all the soil so you can achieve uniform infiltration on all soil types. You can match cop and soil requirements precisely to your requirement, they reduce run off on undulating ground.

So what are the costs?

Scottish dairy farmers sought for antimicrobial resistance study

Researchers at The James Hutton Institute in Aberdeen are searching for conventional dairy farmers in Aberdeenshire, Moray, Angus and Stirlingshire to take part in a study of antimicrobial resistance on farms.

The Scottish Government funded work, in partnership

with microbiologists at The Rowett Institute, hopes to better understand links between antimicrobial use and antimicrobial resistance on farms in Scotland.

This includes exploring whether or not farmers could be more exposed to drug-resistant

microbes through use and handling of antibiotics, including in slurry and waste milk.

All outputs from the study will be anonymised, while participating farmers will get to see the results of both their own and their cattle’s gut microbiome analysis and a free soil analysis.

Participants are required to sign up by March 3, with farm visits, including interviews, soil, water and slurry sampling, being completed by the end of March.

Anyone wanting to join the study or more information can contact carol.kyle@hutton.ac.uk

Dairy Farmers Encouraged to Capitalise on Cutting Carbon

Dairy farmers can capitalise on cutting carbon on their farms, creating a win for the environment and a farm's bottom line.

Mole Valley Farmers' Head of Nutrition, Dr Chris Bartram, said small changes could significantly benefit a dairy business's profitability and is something every farmer should be looking at.

However, he suggested farmers seek expert advice to ensure any changes would have a positive impact on the farm and overall emissions.

He said: "Farmers must add sustainability to the traditional measures of productivity and profitability to get the most from their enterprise.

“There are many ways producers can help reduce emissions on their farms, and they are unlikely to mean significant investments or changes.

"It is important that farmers pursue the correct advice and adopt a ‘what if, step by step, approach to evaluating the various opportunities.

Dr Bartram suggested three initial feed-related areas to consider:

1. Feed material sourcing: the removal of soy products (soya, protected soya and soya hulls)

will require careful adjustments to the diet to maintain the required yield of fat and protein without incurring additional cost, particularly when feeding the high-yielding cow.

2. Feed efficiency: improving feed efficiency on most farms will require a detailed look at concentrate feed allocation to various groups of animals or an increase in milk output. Heifer rearing will also be important as part of the overall approach.

3. Protein efficiency: initial analysis indicates that it will be beneficial to feed no more than a 14% protein concentrate at grass. The use of lower protein forages to balance high protein fresh grass may also be worth considering. Feeding for a higher milk protein yield will also be important.

Dr Bartram added: "When helping formulate rations, we use a unique ration program that allows farmers to see how different feeds influence margins and production. It now also includes an environment related section including diet carbon footprint, protein efficiency and methane output. This will help farmers to understand the overall impact of using certain feeds on the farm carbon footprint.

“We have also developed

a dedicated Climate Positive Impact feed range formulated with no soy or palm products and specified with a low carbon footprint. This will be an easy win for producers looking to cut emissions quickly.”

Extensive research is being carried out by Mole Valley Feed Solutions to support the best routes farmers can take to reduce emissions.

Dr Bartram added: “We’ve been working with The University of Nottingham investigating

the impact of dietary protein on heifer performance, growth and the environment. We've also just started a three-year trial with SRUC, Crichton Royal looking at the importance of amino acids in transition and early lactation dairy cows. This follows an initial study at The University of Reading.

"On the back of some of this work, we are also developing new dairy feeds including unique compounds with specialist materials like NovaPro protected

rape, new heifer products and transition feeds. Other initiatives include the declaration of the compound feed carbon footprint on the label and a new buy back scheme for beans."

Reducing a farm’s carbon footprint requires a multifactorial plan and is very farm specific. The Mole Valley Farmers approach provides expertise in feed, forage and animal health through the specialist nutrition, forage and fertiliser and veterinary teams. “A joined up coordinated method is very beneficial”, explained Dr Bartram.

Additional areas that are also important include energy use and renewables.

“Although the task in hand may appear daunting, a what-if, bit by bit, linked approach will reduce emissions and also result in an improvement in a farm's bottom line,” he added.

Mole Valley Farmers first launched its Climate Positive Agriculture initiative in 2021. It is designed to help clients reduce their farm carbon footprint and improve productivity and profitability. At the same time the business is working hard to reduce its own emissions as part of a general drive towards net zero. For more information, visit molevalleyfeedsolutions.com or contact the Feed Line on 01566 780261.

Farmers encouraged to apply CIGAR method to help manage youngstock

Forage peas, an alternative source of protein

By Dr Cara Campbell

Farmers are being encouraged to apply the CIGAR method to their youngstock management to reduce cases of pneumonia in their herds.

Dairy vet Hannah Batty from Shropshire-based LLM Farm Vets,part of the VetPartners group, and one of the speakers at the inaugural National Youngstock Conference, says the CIGAR method is a useful

way of addressing a challenge such as pneumonia on-farm and optimising farm management.

“CIGAR is an analogy which stands for Current situation, Ideal situation, the Gap between the current and ideal situations, Action plan, and Review,” explains Ms Batty.

“With costs as high as they are, I would encourage people

The recent volatility in cost and availability of supplementary protein sources has meant dairy farmers have begun growing their own home-grown protein sources, in particular forage legumes. Legumes are popular due to their ability to fix nitrogen, reducing the reliance on purchased nitrogen and contain high levels of crude protein, reducing the reliance on purchased protein.

Why consider forage peas as an alternative source of protein for dairy cows?

• Short growing season of between 12 and 18 weeks

• Forage peas work well in a rotation to provide a break between cereals and improve soil fertility

• Forage peas can also be grown as part of a bi-crop alongside a cereal such as wheat or barley.

Forage pea silage can provide starch, protein, and effective fibre within the diet of dairy cows. Generally, forage pea silage has a dry matter content of between 25 and 35%. Crude protein levels are high, with values ranging between 17 and 22%. The inclusion of pea silage in the diet of a dairy cow has maintained dry matter intakes and milk yields when compared to a diet containing grass silage as the part of the forage source. When the diet is balanced correctly, purchased protein can be reduced when using forage pea silage.

If you are considering forage peas as an alternative protein source, please speak to your nutritionist to determine the correct inclusion rates and alteration of concentrates to achieve optimum milking performance of your dairy cows.

to think about not just the cost of what’s going in, but also the costs associated with what’s coming out. The more disease you can prevent, the better performance you’re going to have.

“So the starting point is assessing the current situation,” she says. “For youngstock, this might mean gathering data such as the number of calves being treated for pneumonia every month, or looking at the mortality rate for calves across the year. “You might also look at what protocols are in place and how calf health issues,

like pneumonia, are being managed.”

The next step is identifying the ideal situation for your farm – a process Ms Batty believes should involve everybody with a role in the management of the calves on the farm. “The ideal situation for your farm may be that you only treat a certain number of calves, you only purchase a certain amount of antibiotics, or that the calves always have access to nice, clean, fresh water,” adds Ms Batty.

“It doesn’t have to involve big targets that feel a million miles away; I always encourage people

to break their ideal situation down into quite simple, small and doable things to start with.”

Thereafter, farmers are encouraged to identify what the gap is between where they are currently and their ideal situation, before drawing up an action plan to bridge that gap.

“For example, with pneumonia being a challenge right now, one of the actions can be improving colostrum management and ensuring you get really good passive transfer to the calf,” adds Ms Batty. “This will set the calf up so much

better, meaning they won’t get scour issues in the first couple of weeks of life – animals that get scour are so much more susceptible to pneumonia, so this will help achieve a better performance overall.”

She recommends reviewing the whole process every three months, but encourages farmers to monitor colostrum transfer and disease incidence on a monthly basis.

“The CIGAR process gives you the structure to identify the areas where there may be marginal gains,” adds Ms Batty.

Trinity AgTech has partnered with Jersey Dairy

Under the partnership, Jersey Dairy will use Trinity AgTech’s new generation natural capital navigator, Sandy, across all the Jersey dairy businesses, to assess the carbon impact of their entire supply chain, from farm level all the way through to the products on the shelves.

“Together with information from our dairy farms, Sandy will provide us with significant amounts of analytics and data, which we can use to build a true picture of our sustainability status. The information can then be shared with consumers for added transparency and to highlight provenance,” explains farmer and chairman at Jersey Dairy, Andrew Le Gallais.

“We have committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions on-farm, but there’s still more to be done. The farming community across the island make up less than

5% of total carbon emissions but it’s important we play our part in responding to the global climate crisis.

“Annually, our farmers are producing 14 million litres of milk which is all processed by Jersey Dairy into our own branded dairy products. We already do a lot of

benchmarking on the island and we want to build on that to determine our exact carbon impact, and drive efficiencies,” he adds.

“Knowing your individual farm sustainability metrics really motivates you to improve and develop collaborative initiatives. This is where Sandy can really

add value and provide valuable information to improve business resilience.”

Explaining the reasoning behind the partnership, he says, “Earlier this year, the Jersey government published a Carbon Neutral Strategy, laying out the roadmap to net zero by 2050.

Quality Meat Scotland updates Pig Assurance Scheme standards

New Standards are set to go live this spring, following an extensive review by the Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) Standards Setting Body for the Pig Assurance Scheme.

Effective from 1st May 2023, key changes to the scheme will see mandatory training brought in for stockpersons involved in the moving, handling, and surrounding casualty management of pigs. The review also outlined the need for a greater emphasis on biosecurity, which includes the safer containment of fallen stock. The Standards form an important part of the Scottish red meat industry’s Quality Assurance

Scheme - the longest established scheme of its kind in the world. Reviewed biennially to ensure that producers are meeting evolving supply chain demands, this year also saw a revision of the standard setting process.

Kathryn Kerr, head of brands integrity at QMS, explained: “Working in close collaboration with key industry stakeholders, the review incorporated a new step whereby members were able to provide direct and extensive feedback on the proposed changes, prior to being signed off by the standard setting body.

farm business operations, and instead provide practical and relevant measures to protect the industry’s reputation at a time when consumers are demanding greater transparency about how their food is produced.

Kathryn added: “Here in Scotland, we are globally renowned for our high standards of pig production, which not only grants animals the best possible quality of life on farm and throughout the live supply chain, but guarantees the finest product reaching the consumer’s plate.

Selected Pork brand, and introducing even higher standards of production, assessed on farm by our trusted partner Food Integrity Assurance (FIA), ensures that we can continue to deliver robust and trusted marketing activity that offers value for our levy payers.”

“These updated requirements are not intended to complicate

“Quality assurance is a backbone of the Specially

A summary of the main additions and revisions to the Pig Assurance Scheme, and why they were made, will be landing on member doorsteps in the coming days alongside a full copy of the updated standards, three months before they go live. They will also be available to view on the QMS website. For more information on the Quality Assurance Scheme and QMS brands, visit www.qmscotland.co.uk.

sheep

Efficient grazing system key to success for Scottish Sheep Farm of the Year

Maximising output and minimising inputs by creating a more efficient system has proved to be the key to success for Perthshire farmer Calum McDiarmid and his shepherd Ed Munt, who run 1,350 cross Aberfield breeding ewes and 350 ewe lambs at Mains of Murthly near Aberfeldy.

A decision to radically alter the farm’s sheep enterprise over the last five years saw them become Scottish Sheep Farm of the Year at AgriScot last November.

The biggest change has been to introduce a rotational paddock grazing system, with most fields now subdivided into seven to 10acre paddocks using solar electric fencing systems. This has had a dramatic impact on the volume and quality of grass grown on the unit, which has a difference in height from the bottom to the top of the farm of 700 feet.

In January, all ewes move into small batches of about 200 on eight-acre hill paddocks where they remain until two weeks before lambing, with ewe lambs on lower pastures. Ewes receive high quality silage in ring feeders, and are condition scored every four weeks, with any requiring more condition taken out and receiving supplementary feed. The farm’s silage is analysed every year, and has an average ME of about 11.2 and protein of 12.5%, giving a D-value of about 70. “The Aberfield ewe is brilliant at living on silage in the January-February period,” he says. Quality grass and silage also drives colostrum quality and volume.

Lambing starts in early April, with ewes out on the hill until late March. Lambing is fast-paced on the unit, with the 100 small pens used for lambing twin- and tripletbearing ewes becoming a ‘very busy place’ – but the key is to have a very well organised system, he says.

Thinking about how the entire enterprise works and making it as livestock- and people-friendly as

possible is important. “There are fewer shepherds around, so we have to create a business structure that people want to work in, to have good working conditions and a good work-life balance.”

And while the system as a whole is successful, one thing the farm would like to achieve is a better scanning percentage. This has been as low as 160, and after reviewing the system, Calum and Ed believe it is down to a slight dip in ewe feed intake during the ‘golden period’ after tupping. This has led to a change in approach this year to ensure ewes are on good grass for 30 days after tupping. The additional grass – which is also useful at lambing – has come about as a consequence of dropping 30 acres of rape and kale, previously used for finishing lambs.

As a result, about half of the lamb crop were sold as stores this autumn, achieving a price of about £90, and the other half sold fat, achieving £115, but with an additional cost of £25/head to get them to that stage. Traditionally, all lambs were sold deadweight at an average of 19kg, grading at U3L or 3H; the aim this autumn is to finish half the lambs again, but purely on better autumn grass which will have winter legumes stitched in. The change in approach will mean the farm can give more grass to the ewes around egg implantation, which should boost lambing percentage, he says.

Focusing on grass and introducing the rotational paddock system has led to an improvement in flock health as sheep are moved to clean paddocks every five to seven days, explains Calum. The farm has a policy that sheep can never graze two fields at the same time, so never running through a gate on the same track. This has had a huge impact on foot health.

With a belief that prevention is better than cure, ewes are blood tested for mineral deficiencies every two years, tested for MDV and Johne’s disease, and observed

for OPA. “Thankfully none of these has been found, but we always look.”

Condition scoring and separating ewes has become more straightforward with the purchase of an integrated Ritchie Combi Clamp and Tru-Test XR5000 weigh head. This is situated in the indoor sheep fank, which has a concrete floor. All sheep are recorded and measured every time they go through the fank, and the floor is scraped clean every week as part of the farm’s foot health programme.

As well as investing in fencing and handling facilities, the farm now has an Opico Sward Lifter, which Calum says is really

helping to increase grass growth. “With paddocks getting a rest between rotations and allowing the grass to grow, the root growth is tremendous.”

The newest piece of kit to arrive at Mains of Murthly is a plate meter, allowing the team to regularly measure each paddock’s grass output and chart it against lamb growth rates, creating a grass production chart for the farm.

“What can be done with good grass is surprising,” says Calum. “As farmers we have to drive our businesses harder, like every other industry, and we have managed to achieve much greater output with fewer inputs.”

New probiotic can help prevent watery mouth and other lamb infections

Probiotics, which can help in the fight against infection in the newborn animal, have been introduced to some early-life and youngstock products in the G Shepherd Animal Health range.

Ready for this season’s lambing, the company’s First Thirst Lamb Colostrum Supplement has now been enriched with probiotics, reflecting the benefits of seeding the new-born lamb’s digestive

tract with favourable bacteria, which have been demonstrated to improve health and performance.

This is said to be a particularly useful tool in the fight against watery mouth, which can cause significant losses, usually in the first three days of life.

Vet, Graham Shepherd, the company’s chief executive, says: “Sheep farmers are aware of the importance of colostrum in the lamb’s first hours, but

the ewe’s own colostrum can need supplementation in some situations.

“This may occur after a difficult lambing, for multiple births or when the ewe is not in the best of health – perhaps with mastitis or twin lamb disease.”

Lambs in these situations are far more likely to be affected by watery mouth, which occurs when E coli bacteria rapidly multiply and colonise the small intestine, and release toxins.

“The disease is almost always fatal, so it is important to prevent its occurrence rather than try to achieve a cure,” he says.

Forklift Porta-Yards

brings new access to mobile sheep handling

Looking forward to the year and RHS

By Grace Reid, NSA Scottish Region Coordinator

The Forklift Porta-Yards is the first of its kind on the market – no towing required

A new method of mobile sheep handling is now available in the UK with the launch of the Forklift Porta-Yards from Landquip NZ.

A market first, the Forklift Porta-Yards features a 2.5m steel race frame with fork slots to transport with either a telehandler or loader tractor. The race frame also features a rubber floor and three-way drafting.

“The Forklift Porta-Yards is the first mobile sheep handling unit on the market that doesn’t require towing for transportation,” says Edward Wise of Wise Agriculture, UK distributor of Porta-Yards. “Without the need to remove wheel kits for use and put them back on for towing, set-up and repacking the mobile sheep unit is significantly quicker with minimal effort. Transportation via forklifts also allow for the sheep yards to be used by producers who don’t

own quads or want to take their livestock trailer on the back of the tractor and sheep yard on the front.”

The Forklift Porta-Yards is available in 100-head and 250head capacities. Units come standard with 1m high New Zealand alloy hurdles with a solid top section. This solid section acts as a visual barrier to keep sheep from jumping while also protecting the legs of working dogs. Up to 10 hurdles can be stacked on either side of the 2.5m steel unit.

The Forklift Porta-Yards features a four-year ‘Best of Breed’ warranty from Landquip NZ. The 100-head capacity Forklift PortaYards is priced at £4,512 + VAT – components can be purchased separately to increase the capacity at a later date. The 250-head capacity is priced at £6,685 + VAT. Units are in stock and available for delivery from Wise Agriculture. Learn more at wiseag.co.uk.

The start of 2023 has been busy for NSA Scotland. At our ARMM (Annual Regional Members Meeting) we welcomed a new Chair in the form of Peter Myles, a Trustee in Pamela Nicol and several committee members all of whom will no doubt bring enthusiasm and passion with them to future endeavours. We are proud to say that our committees boast terrific groups of vibrant and engaged members who have an abundance of talent and have shown adaptability to take on the challenges ahead with enthusiasm. In addition to this, NSA were delighted to present Ian Duncan Millar with the NSA George Hedley Memorial Award for 2022 in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the UK sheep industry. Ian is regarded by many as one of the most exemplary leaders within the UK sheep industry which is represented by his support and early adoption of numerous programmes and through his role as a highly valued adviser to researchers and many others.

At the end of January, we welcomed the Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and Islands Mairi Gougeon to Doldy Farms, Glenisla whereby a first-hand experience of the challenges and opportunities facing our hill sheep farms was given. Despite ongoing consultation and anticipation of what future policy may look like in the future, our ever dedicated members are still continuing to make daily decisions of which will see them past 2024 and into the beyond. NSA Scotland is committed to tackling the many and pressing issues we have for the sheep industry and as part of the wider agricultural collective.

Looking past the upcoming busy period of lambing, we are finalising plans to attend the Royal Highland Show in June which will also be the home of the Golden Shears 2023. We look forward to seeing members and those interested in the sheep industry again this year in our new location situated directly beside the MacRobert Shearing Theatre.

Hoof care: keeping your horse’s hooves in top condition over the colder months

Taking care of your horse’s hooves is a very important part of horse care. A horse’s hooves are responsible for supporting the animal’s full weight on a very small surface area, and they therefore need a lot of specific upkeep to ensure they stay healthy. Looking after your horse’s hooves will help to prevent problems like bruised soles, thrush, and laminitis, as well as making your four-legged friend more comfortable and able to enjoy being active.

While you might think that caring for your horse’s feet is the same all your round, there are some specific things that need more attention throughout the winter season. Here, the horse care experts at Horse & Country will take you through the essentials of winter hoof care, so that your horse can get through the colder months with their hooves in top condition.

Provide dry ground

While horses like to be able to continue spending time outside throughout the winter, it’s also important to bring them in so that their feet can dry off. The moisture in the ground during winter can provide the perfect conditions for infections like thrush, and in order to minimise this it’s crucial to give your horse some time in dry conditions. Make sure to keep an eye on the weather conditions for lots of rain and wind, and bring them back to a clean, dry stable for several hours after they’ve been in wet or muddy fields.

As well as reducing the chance of fungal infection, this will also help the horse’s feet to adjust gradually to the changes in the weather and ground, helping them be less prone to seasonal issues. The ground in winter is very changeable, as it becomes hard when the temperature goes below

freezing but can get very wet if the temperature is still above freezing. So, give your horse’s feet a break from the moisture and ensure they dry out. Even when your horse is outside, they should ideally have access to a standing area that’s completely dry at all times.

Book the farrier regularly

As well as making sure that your horse’s hooves aren’t left being damp, you should take time to inspect them regularly and have your horse seen by your farrier every 6 - 8 weeks. It might seem like you don’t need these visits as much in winter, because horses’ hooves tend to grow slower at this time and you might not be working your horses as much, but it’s still vital to maintain your horse’s hoof care regime.

An unbalanced or uneven hoof is more prone to developing sand and grass cracks from wear and tear that can turn into more substantial

injuries. These cracks can also give access to organisms that cause infection and make disease more likely. The way to prevent this happening is to regularly book in with your farrier to maintain an even shaped hoof and have your horse’s feet assessed regularly for any possible issues. Having the foot inspected at rest is a great way to identify any possible problems before they become more serious, so make sure you keep your farrier in your calendar.

Shoe your horse for winter

You should decide at the beginning of the season what the right winter shoeing choice is for your horse and arrange it with your farrier. There are three main choices: barefoot, shoeing the front feet only, or shoeing all four feet. It’s worth noting that some livery yards won’t allow horses in if they have all four feet shod during the integration

period. This is to prevent more serious injury if the horse kicks another one. The most common winter shoeing choice is to have shoes only on the front feet, as this means that the hind feet can reap the benefits of being barefoot.

Being without shoes can have some health benefits, as your horse’s feet will be directly on the ground and can therefore develop a strong frog and bars. If you shoe your horse the rest of the year, removing them for a while can allow their hooves to develop more without shoes if the hoof wall is strong enough. However, there are also benefits to having the front feet (or even all four feet) shod, such as increased traction and balance. Speak to your farrier to make the right decision for your horse and have winter shoes put on to increase grip and balance if you are shoeing for winter.

Applications Open for 2024 Nuffield Scholarships

Applications for 2024 Nuffield Farming Scholarships are now open online until 31 July 2023. Prospective applicants can find out more about the application process and start their application by visiting https://www.nuffieldscholar.org/ scholarships/how-apply.

The Nuffield Farming team are available to provide support to applicants throughout the process. This includes a series of online open evenings to answer

general questions, cover specific elements of the applications, and receive advice from existing Scholars.

Anyone interested in applying for a 2024 Scholarship are encouraged to attend one of the Trust’s online “Open Evenings”, which will be held from April onwards.

To receive details and register for these sessions, please email charlotte@nuffieldscholar.org.

Farmers join together to raise £15,000 for Northsound Cash for Kids

Despite wintery conditions, farmers from across the North East took part in a charity Christmas lunch at Barra Castle recently to raise funds for Cash for Kids.

The event hosted by Harbro Ltd and supported by Boehringer Ingleheim saw 200 farmers join them for a delicious festive meal followed by entertainment from renowned after dinner speaker Alex Fleming. Guests had the opportunity to bid for some exclusive auction prizes including a limited-edition bottle of Harbro Malt whisky, helping to boost the amount raised.

“We cannot thank our customers, suppliers and guests

enough for supporting the event and showing such generosity. It was great for everyone to have the opportunity to get together, enjoy the festive period and support such a worthwhile charity”. Commented Chris Baxter, Managing Director. He went on to say, “We hope this will be an annual event and look forward to planning for 2023”.

Michelle Ferguson, Cash for Kids, Charity Manager recently visited Harbro to collect the funds raised by the event.

“£15,000 will go a long way, particularly at a time when we are seeing an increasing demand for support and grant applications are

Pictured Michelle Ferguson, Cash for Kids, Charity Manager and Chris Baxter, Managing Director, Harbro Ltd

on the rise, we are truly grateful for the support shown by our local farming community and Harbro” Michelle said.

NORTHERN ISLES News

New chairman elected for NFU’s Orkney branch

By Ethan Flett

“There’s quite a concerted effort at the moment going into getting funding, particularly for the year ahead because at the moment there’s nothing on the table,” said Mr Flett.

He added: “The minister has not taken it off the table by any means, but you know what budgets are like at the moment — it’s very difficult, but it’s something we’re still pushing for, and we’re actively trying to get funding in other ways as well.”

Among the other issues at the top of the new chairman’s to-do list is the new Agricultural Bill from the Scottish Government, which was the subject of a recent consultation event in the county.

“The Ag Bill is essentially the framework that has to go through Parliament that allows them to build schemes, to fit within the framework. So, it’s very important we get the framework right to begin with,” he explained.

Funding to bring down geese numbers will be one of the top priorities for the new chairman of NFU Scotland’s Orkney branch.

Colin Flett, from Appietown in Rendall, took over the role from Steven Sandison at the branch’s AGM last Wednesday, after the latter completed his two-year tenure.

The 35-year-old — who has 560 breeding ewes and 120 beef cows, in partnership with his father Tom — is now entering his fourth year with the NFUS in the county. After one year on the legal and technical committee, Mr Flett has spent the last two as vice-chairman.

Now taking on the top role, representing farmers in Orkney, he has spoken with The Orcadian about his priorities, during what is a difficult time for all in the industry.

“There’s a huge amount of work to be done by the NFU,” said

Mr Flett. “I’m under no illusions about that. We do have a lot to do, both nationally with the changes in policy that are moving so slowing — we’re needing some clarity on that — but also locally, there are a lot of issues as well.”

Among the main three issues will be tackling the ever-present problem of resident greylag geese in the county. A major piece of work on that front is a five-year plan to reduce the numbers from between 25,000-30,000 at present, down to 5,000.

The plan, which details the measures required and the funding needed to achieve this, is currently sitting with Mairi McAllan, minister for environment, biodiversity and land reform. She was in the county last February to announce some funding for geese management, though this was met with a lukewarm response from local farmers.

Among the new chairman’s other priorities are the Scottish Government’s ongoing efforts to review livestock transportation on the ferries between Orkney and the mainland. The review will focus on “neutral time,” which is how time spent in the cassette transport system is classed currently — as opposed to rest or travel time.

Changes to these rules are something that the NFU in Orkney is going to be “putting a lot of effort into fighting.” For Mr Flett, “it beggars belief” for the government to commission such a review at a time “when our farmers are under a huge amount of pressure”. This is especially the case, he added, when NorthLink’s safety record is “absolutely first rate” and “it wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say it’s world class.”

More than that, Mr Flett said: “It’s discriminatory against farmers in Orkney and Shetland, because we have no option but to use this service to get our livestock to market or their final destination.”

However, at the moment, nothing has come back from the government on the results of the consultation. As far as Orkney is concerned, though, two issues emerged loud and clear — the importance of the Beef Calf Scheme and of the Less-Favoured Areas Support Scheme. Whether those priorities will be taken forward by the government as it formulates its new framework is still to be made clear.

With all of that to contend with, Mr Flett said he is fortunate to have such a good team to help him, describing branch secretaries, John Laughton and Nicola Tait, as being “exceptionally good at their jobs.”

“I would like to thank Steven Sandison, our last chairman, for all his hard work and his commitment,” he added. “He’s been a great advocate for agriculture in Orkney, both locally and nationally.”

Stepping into the role of vicechairman is Stevie Hay, from Howe in Birsay.

Colin Flett

Teenage farmer in Shetland with a great future in farming

A teenage farmer working five different jobs to gain more experience has said she was “really shocked” to be nominated for several national awards.

Nia Hunter, from Weisdale, is currently on the brink of completing her SVQ 6 in agriculture through UHI Shetland while also serving her apprenticeship at Scatsta Farm.

But the 19-year-old has also been working at Shetland Vets, Quendale Farm, the marts and the slaughterhouse in an effort to collect as much agricultural knowledge as possible.

Her remarkable dedication to the industry has put her in the running for three awards at next month’s Lantra Scotland awards for land-based and aquaculture skills, also known as the Albas.

Ms Hunter said she was “grateful and shocked” to be put forward by her Train Shetland co-ordinator Janice Leask.

“I didn’t really feel like I’d deserved it,” she said.

“She [Janice] visits regularly to see you, and she was impressed with how I was getting on.

“She told me she was thinking to nominate me – I didn’t really think too much of it, I was just grateful and shocked really”.

Ms Hunter had to do a formal interview with the Lantra judges before her nomination, and admitted to being “really nervous” about it.

But she said farming was “something I’m really passionate

about”, and that she had tried to “just speak honestly” about her love of the industry.

Her passion clearly shone through, as she was nominated for an agriculture award – and she could also walk away with awards for modern apprentice of the year and overall winner.

Despite that, Ms Hunter said she doesn’t feel “that my story is very special”.

From an early age she knew she wanted to be involved with farming, she told Landwise.

“I’ve always known that’s what I wanted to do,” she said.

“All of my spare time was spent helping out on the farm, so there was no question that’s what I wanted to do.”

Instead of staying at home though, Ms Hunter has sought to broaden her horizons – trying to soak up as much knowledge as possible.

“Obviously the opportunities in agriculture in Shetland are quite limited because of affording a wage.

“But I wanted to go out and try to get as much experience as I can.”

That has lead her to helping at the Quendale Farm dairy, as well as at the Lerwick marts and slaughterhouse too.

Ms Hunter is also starting a new job as a part-time receptionist with Shetland Vets.

She admitted “I don’t really have much spare time”, before adding: “I do struggle with that sometimes”.

But of farming, she said: “I would really say it’s not a job, it’s more like a way of life.

“Getting to be outdoors all the time, you really feel lucky to do it.

“Obviously sometimes you don’t feel lucky when it’s horrible weather.

“Also there’s the social side of things, where you get to meet and speak to like-minded people.

“You just learn so much from them, and there is so much to learn.”

Ms Hunter is part of the Shetland Young Farmers group, which has blossomed and grown exponentially over the last few years.

Last year she became one of Shetland’s young farmers to impress judges at the Royal Highland Show with her knowledge of livestock.

Along with fellow farmers Aimee Gifford and Erin Ridland came top in a prestigious stock judging contest, with competitors taking part from across the country.

While she said it was “easy to feel isolated, especially in the busier times” in the job, she said having that support network to “pick up the phone to” was a massive help.

Once she completes her SVQ 6 in agriculture she is hoping to secure full-time employment in farming.

But she said she was keen to find work away from her home farm to again try to forge her own path.

“Hopefully a full-time job does come up on a different farm, and then the SVQ 6 and the Lantra nomination can help set me apart.

“I want to gain experience working on a different farm, which I can then bring back home at some point.”

Ms Hunter is one of three Shetland nominees at the Albas –with Shannon Leask, from Quarff, nominated in the horticulture category, and Bixter’s Lori Smith up for an award in the aquaculture section.

The awards ceremony is being held at the Hilton hotel in Dunblane on Thursday 9th March, with Ms Hunter heading down to the event.

She thanked Ms Leask for nominating her, Louraine Manson at the Lerwick marts and slaughterhouse for “how much she believes in me”, and Martin and Hilary Burgess at Quendale Farm for taking her on.

Nia Hinter

Dundee Discoveries

by Janice Hopper

Jute is farmed in India and the first bales were unloaded at Dundee docks in 1820. This heralded the first chapter of a fascinating agricultural and industrial story that’s brought to life at the Verdant Works, a museum set in a former jute factory. Verdant Works starts by answering the million dollar question, why Dundee? Why on earth did an Indian raw material make a name for itself on Scotland’s east coast? Jute excelled in Dundee in part due to other harvests. The city’s flax industry of the 16th and 17th century meant there was an experienced workforce equipped with the textile skills necessary to work with jute. The shipbuilding and coastal location

ensured good trade links with India and the world. The whaling harvest brought Dundee the whale oil necessary to soften the raw jute, and the city’s merchant and industrial community was always on the look out for the next big thing. All these elements, brought together in one particular era, enabled jute to flourish in Dundee.

Visitors to Verdant Works get to see the raw jute, which resembles a bad blonde wig, before it goes through a lengthy process of softening, carding, drawing, roving, spinning, winding, beaming, weaving and finishing. Museum volunteers are a great help in clearly explaining the process to young and old

alike, and a vast hall of machinery makes visitors realise what a huge enterprise this once was.

The museums explores the incredible reach and influence of jute in a global picture, touching so many organisations and historic moments that still resonate today. Jute was used extensively throughout the Crimean War (from tents and horse blankets to gun covers and bags), canvas and tarpaulin covered the wagons of folk settling the American plains, linen hosepipes helped in the construction of New York skyscrapers, jute was also used in car linings and upholstery, deckchairs, carpeting and rugs, sail canvas and rope (clients included the Admiralty

in London), brattice cloth to ventilate mine shafts during the American and Australian gold rush, full circle back to farming where jute was used for sacks, as bailing material to bind raw agricultural goods, and even discarded jute mill dust was used as cattle bedding.

Admittedly the experiences of factory workers in Dundee were far flung from the fresh air and fields of agricultural Scotland. Life in the mills was so tough that 50% of Dundee men who volunteered for the army in WW1 were refused as unfit; deemed undersized, underfed and weak. The museum also covers the hardship of the workers in India and the impact of colonialism. A remarkable own goal occurred in 1855 when the Scottish jute industry essentially undercut itself when the first jute mill in India was established in Serampore using machinery and workers from Dundee. By 1900 Kolkata (Calcutta) had swiftly taken over from Dundee as the world’s leading jute producer. The end of Dundee’s reign was inevitable.

Other key attractions to visit on any trip to Dundee include the vessel RSS Discovery, which set sale for Antartica on a mission of science and exploration in 1901. There are few farming links here but one amusing detail pops up. Apparently, when the ship docked in New Zealand a flock of 45 terrified sheep was hustled onboard — a gift from the nation’s farmers! In the cupola of Discovery Point visitors discover the newly opened Discovery

Much of Dundee’s wealth was thanks to the harvest of jute. Janice Hopper heads to this compact east coast city to explore Dundee’s farming connections.

Terrific tractors

Dome. It features the spherical artwork Gaia by environmental artist Luke Jerram, and a narration (in part by actor Alan Cumming) covers topics from space travel and Dundee’s history to climate change.

Next, head to Dundee’s Transport Museum for their Terrific Tractors event on Sunday 16 April. The venue’s own agricultural vehicles will be on show, joined by tractors owned by local enthusiasts such as members of the Scottish Vintage Tractor and Engine Club.

The V&A highlights farming sporadically, from fashion designer with farming roots, Bill Gibb, to vertical farming exhibits. Its forthcoming ‘Tartan’ exhibition, which kicks off on 1 April, will inevitably tap into wool and weaving. For a spot of shopping, head slightly out of town to Grewar’s Farm Shop at Dronley. Next, meet the animals at Camperdown Country Park. From familiar favourites on the farm, such as Clydesdale horses, donkeys and owls, to more exotic creatures including lemurs, brown bears and marmosets. At the McManus Gallery learn more about how the land was settled in the ‘Landscapes and Lives’ exhibition that charts the creation of Dundee’s natural landscape. Take in sweeping views of the countryside from the peak of Dundee Law. Pop online to discover that Dundee’s Beano comic offers a surprising amount of farm fun including 24 Jokes for Farmers. Look out for

absolute crackers such as Why do cows have hoofs? Because they lactose (beano.com/categories/ farming). Lastly, consider a slice of Dundee cake. Its stand out ingredients are Seville Orange marmalade, Spanish almonds and Spanish sultanas - more farming imports thanks to the renowned shipping industry at Dundee harbour.

After all these city explorations, end the day at the very central Apex City Quay Hotel. The rooms, restaurant and public areas are notably modern and stylish, and it boasts a swimming pool with steam room, sauna and whirlpool. Further indulgence can be booked at the relaxing Yu Spa, or simply head for dinner at the Quayside Bar and Grill, where two courses cost £20 and three courses are £26. Start with a smoked salmon and crayfish cocktail, enjoy a main of venison shepherd’s pie, and finish by ordering a classic dessert with a twist, Dundee cake cheesecake. apexhotels.co.uk/destinations/ dundee/

Discover more at… Verdant Works - verdantworks. co.uk

Discovery - rrsdiscovery.co.uk

Transport Museum - dmoft. co.uk

Camperdownamperdownwildlifecentre.co.uk

V&A - vam.ac.uk/dundee

McManus Gallery - mcmanus. co.uk

Grewar’s - grewarsfarmshop. co.uk

Bales of jute at Verdant Works

RSS Discovery

Farm Walk and Talk Round Up: Whitriggs Farm, Scottish Borders

By Fiona Sloan

Finding ways to either supplement farm income or improve margins are the discussions taking place around every farm kitchen table or office in Scotland. The increased cost in overheads, has led to many farmers making changes in farming policy, which past generations would have considered unthinkable but if future farming generations are to carry on, these changes are becoming fundamental to the sustainability of the whole business. This doesn’t only include changes in the farming enterprise itself but also changes in succession thinking, something all too often, put on the back burner until it is too late.

The only certainty in life is that we will die. The only uncertainty is when that will happen. The task is to be brave enough and bold enough to have the discussions and make the decisions as a family, before someone has to make them for you.

These are only two of the subjects tackled at the recent Women in Agriculture meeting held at Whitriggs Farm, Denholm, Hawick, which began with a farm walk kindly hosted by Lesley Mitchell and her family.

On a not so pleasant day in The Borders, the 50 plus attendance

of women of all ages, from all walks of agricultural life, joined together to walk and talk about the policy changes at Whitriggs, which had come about from those necessary conversations about the future. Historically women in agriculture have often had a specific role, which didn’t always involve them in the actual running or future of the business. Since the 1980’s however, it has become increasingly more apparent that many are no longer farmers’ wives but are married to farmers.

Many have careers which support the farm finances, some have part time positions, which

allow them to work around the children and farm and an increasing number are fully integrated into the farming policy, allowing them to jointly make decisions about both their and their children’s futures.

There is also a realisation that a work life balance is fundamental to the outcome of the business. Agriculture is an industry with an unacceptably high incidence of suicide and poor mental health, a subject still taboo to many but a necessary concern to everyone, farmers included.

Whitriggs is a great example of a family looking to the future, with the recent addition of the

next generation consolidating that thinking. “We needed to look at our margins.” explains Lesley, “That to me, as the number cruncher of the business, seemed to be the way forward. There is limit to how much you can expect on the top line, therefore we had to look at ways of reducing our inputs if we were going to move forward. Everyone comes up with the ideas in the business but if I look at the figures and if they don’t stack up, we have to think again.”

The Mitchel Family moved from traditional continental cross cows to an organic system of smaller crossed traditional breeds,

in the hope that they could cut down on the time the cows required to be in during the winter, saving on both concentrate and more importantly on the bedding for the herd. The success of the change over has seen the herd staying out all winter becoming self-sufficient on grain and costs being reduced from £18 to £4.50 per head, achieving more that they had hoped for. “This isn’t a system which would suit everyone.” continues Lesley, “but it worked for us and the numbers stack up. It means we can do all of our tractor work during the winter with silage bales strategically placed on the hill, with son Stuart, the engineering mind of the team, custom building equipment to roll out bales of silage placed there in readiness for the winter. They are now also self-sufficient in barley and straw.

“The sheep flock were doing ok” explains Robert, “but only ok. We took some tests and found there was MV in the flock and the only alternative was to cull and replace the flock. However, we could not ensure that any replacements we bought would not have a similar issue, so we looked at replacing the flock with a herd of red deer. The “numbers again stacked up” according to Lesley and this new venture has proved to be a success for the farm and an enterprise that the whole family were on board with and enjoy working with the deer.”

The family philosophy is “Be Your Best Self.” They are all open to available training and information and have learned as they have gone along. They are not afraid of failure or change but make every effort to ensure that, in whichever way they take their business, that the figures must be right first and they are taking specialist advice on the way forward. A work life balance is clearly very important to the family and they are managing to balance that with a successful business, in which they are all invested.

Following the farm walk, the group gathered for lunch in Denholm to discuss their morning, do some networking and to listen to talks from various excellent speakers, on those things which affect the future of any family

business, namely inheritance, succession and most importantly wills and powers of attorney.

Almost half of those present had still not made a will, which was surprising to those who had. With the uncertainty of life/ death and long-term illness the importance of ensuring that all of the family is protected should be paramount on any family farm. Leaving it to someone else to sort out after your death is just not acceptable. Everyone should be aware of what will happen on your death, regardless of your age, whether father, son, mother or daughter. Don’t leave it to the courts to decide, because you don’t want to have that conversation with your family. Powers of Attorney and Wills need to be in place, should anything suddenly happen to make you or your partners suddenly incapable through disease or accident. Those who are not “a partner” in the business but are part of the business, need to also have the conversation on where they stand in the future should things change and they have no legal rights. Inheritance in these circumstances can soon reduce and disappear under the solicitor’s bills but money well spent now can save a massive tax bill in the future.

Take advice from an expert now! Get a will in place and a power of attorney if appropriate and take the stress out of death for you and others. It might not be cheap but there is a difference between expensive and too dear and it will be a fraction of the solicitor’s bills if you don’t.

Yes, it might be a difficult discussion to have and yes, it may take some time to bring the subject up and get things in place but you can’t have that discussion too soon. Ask yourself what you want to achieve for yourself and your family. In the future and take it from there.

Women in Agriculture Scotland brings members of our community and its support network together to make new friends and acquaintances and learn from one another to the benefit of Scottish Agriculture. Anyone can join for free at https:// www.womeninagriculture.scot/

Southern Belle

Circumstances beyond my control

With travel back in full swing following the pandemic, I was looking forward to my first tour overseas, since early 2020, when I arrived home from Tanzania only a week before lockdown.

Following visits with overseas groups to the farms of several friends during the 2022 season, they and my current husband, have finally appreciated that I do in fact work when I am away and am not wiling away the hours under a coconut tree.

Every tour has its challenges, from teeth lost down a chemical toilet, to a camera falling off the roof of a jeep in the Serengeti. This tour would, however, top the lot for unforeseen circumstances.

A train drivers strike the day before we leave, necessitates taking a three and a half hour service bus ride to the airport dressed in suitable clothes for the Caribbean and able to see my breath. Meet group and long haul flight goes well but next flight in a 6 seater not so good.

While going through customs, the customs officer taking our passports at the tiny airport suddenly yells and runs from the booth, having received some bad news from home while checking one of our passports, leaving our shocked group member thinking her passport photo surely wasn’t that bad! All ushered through without checks as no one else available.

Nobody then thought to mention that we were flying into a different airport than that originally planned and when our pilot landed on the grass on one wheel, clapped and cheered herself down the runway while taking a selfie with us, to note the occasion, it was safe to assume that it was her first landing there too, which she later confirmed by high fiving the pilot from our other plane who was still in training!

The customs guy in this airport apologised that his

booth was missing and used a small table in the corner instead. Taxi pick ups now an hour away at the “wrong” airport. Cue hanging around with a group of tired hot and hungry clients now two hours from where lunch is booked. Take one client to pharmacist to look at nasty rash while relying on minibus driver to know somewhere local, where we can have lunch. Back on track at last.

Arrive at first visit, to a cocoa plantation to discover the bridge got washed away in the floods and my group, of which I’m the youngest, have to take off their shoes, roll up their trouser legs and wade knee deep through the river to get to the cocoa trees! Leave four behind in care of mini bus driver who later appears with his lunch to join us leaving the clients in his bus on the other side of the river in the pouring rain.

Next day...tour guide doesn’t turn up!

Taxi driver decides to be helpful tour guide while driving and enlighten us on some of the interesting facts of the island, one of which is that he doesn’t have a driving licence and smokes marijuana.

He was however decent enough to ask if any of the passengers would like some, when he stopped to buy supplies on the way to the hotel. Still raining….

Beautiful tin roofed lodges in the jungle under some very wet trees….kept raining for three days, compensated by a very large bottle of rum (which was inadvertently left in the fridge when we moved on), great company and superb food from our French chef.

There is not much that can’t be sorted by a Plan B but sometimes all you need is a bunch of people who are great together and realise that sometimes circumstance like flight plans and weather are just beyond your control. Oh and so are Border Force strikes on the way home tomorrow…. See you all sometime...

Croitearan ag ràdh g’eil cothrom air a chall

Le Murray MacLeòid

Tha beagan a bharrachd mìneachadh air a thighinn mu dè tha fa near dha poileasaidh àiteachais na h-Alba san àm ri teachd, ach tha fhathast faireachdain am measg gu leòr nach eil fhios le cinnt dè tha dol a thachairt ann an seagh practaigeach.

Dh’fhoillsich ministear nan cùisean dùthchail Mairi Gougeon “mapa rathaid airson athleasachaidh an àiteachais”, as dèidh càineadh laidir bhon ghnìomhachas nach eil soilleireach sam bith ri fhaighinn.

Bha dùil ri bile ùr àiteachais ann an 2024 airson siostam ùr a chruthachadh, ach chaidh a chur dheth airson co-dhiù bliadhna.

Tha am “mapa” a chaidh fhoillseachadh le Mairi Gougeon na chlàr-ama air dè na laghan ùr a tha an dùil a thighinn anns àm ri teachd a bheir buaidh air poileasaidh mòr an àiteachais.

Ach, gu cudromaiche, chan eil fios sam bith mu dè an taic a bhios ann dha croitearan is tuathanaich no dè dh’fheumas iad a dhèanamh son an taic sin fhaighinn.

Thuirt Dòmhnall MacFhionghuin, cathraiche Caidreachas Croitearachd na h-Alba: “Anns am freagairt a thug sinn air Bile an Aiteachais, rinn sinn e gu math soilleir gu feum sinn fiosrachadh mionaideach air cùisean. Tha na pàipearan a thàinig a-mach an dràsta a’ toirt na h-uimhir a shealladh dhuinn air an t-slighe air adhart agus na cinn-uidhe.

“‘S e ceum air adhart a tha seo agus bheir e beachd nas fheàrr dha croitearan air dè na

h-atharraichean a tha ri thighinn.

“Ach, dh’fhaodadh cuid dhe na molaidhean a bhith nas fheàrr dha croitearan, mar eisimpleir inghilt ath-ghineach, taic airson crodh tradiseanta a chumail agus craobhan a chur aig ìre beag.

“Cha deach feairt sam bith a thoirt dha cuid dhe na nithean cudromach a thog an SCF.”

Tha an Riaghaltas air a dhèanamh soilleir gum bidh cuid dha na sgeamaichean taic a’

fuireachd mar a tha, mar am BPS agus LFASS, le ‘s dòcha dìreach atharraichean beaga.

Ach, a rèir Dhòmhnaill ‘s e cothrom a tha seo air a’ chall.

“Chan eil guth air leasachadh coimhearsnachdan dùthchail mar thoradh, no air biadh glasraich,” thuirt e.

“Cha deach cail a dhèanamh nas motha mu dheidhinn a bhith dealbhadh nithean ach am bidh iad freagarrach dha

gnìomhachasan beaga no an duilgheadas le bhith cur ri chèile planaichean mòra tuathanais ann an co-theacs croitearachd.”

Thuirt Mgr MacFhionguin gu bheil am “mapa” a’ toirt beagan soillearachadh air cùisean agus g’eil e na chothrom dha croitearan am beachdan a chur air adhart.

“Tha an SCF ag obair gu dlùth le ar buill airson na molaidhean a sgrùdadh agus dèanamh cinnteach gu bheil Poileasaidh Aiteachais na h-Alba a’ toirt taic cheart dha croitearachd,” thuirt e.

“Faodaidh croitearachd mòran a chur ri gnothaichean na h-àrainneachd, ri nàdar agus ri coimhearsnachdan dùthchail agus le sin feumaidh sinn soillearachadh air mar a thig taic a thoirt dhan a sin agus dè an taic a bhios ri fhaighinn ach am faigh croitearan air coinneachadh ri dòchasan an Riaghaltais.”

Thuirt Mairi Gougeon: “Fhad ‘s a bhios sinn a’ dèanamh adhartais le prògram athleasachaidh an àiteachais, bidh barrachd cothroman againn fiosrachadh nas mionaidiche a thoirt seachad dha tuathanaich, croitearan is oighreachdan airson an cuideachadh ann a bhith ag ullachadh airson na h-atharraichean a tha dol air a thighinn as dèidh 2025.

“Tron an aithisg seo, tha mi an dòchas soillearachadh nas fheàrr agus misneachd a thoirt dhan gnhìomhachas air na cinn-uidhe cudromach a tha roimhainn agus na tha an Riaghaltas a’ moladh, agus an taic a bhios ann airson gluasad gu siostam ùr.”

Tha an SCF g’eil feum air soillearachadh mun t-slighe air adhart

Public body sparks discussion on Scotland’s changing landscape

Realising benefits for local communities in positive land use

A NEW PAPER launched by Scotland’s leading land reform body hopes to stimulate discussion on the ways communities can benefit from land use change and investment for Scotland’s net zero ambition.

The Scottish Land Commission’s ‘Community benefits from investment in natural capital’ discussion paper not only considers thinking on how local communities can benefit from changes in Scotland’s land, but showcases how investment in natural capital enhancement, restoration, and creation projects can deliver a multitude of public, private, and community benefits.

The paper – aiming to help shape the emerging field of community benefits – draws together the Commission’s current thinking on some of the key questions about community benefits from investment in natural capital, and highlights the need for major investment in Scotland’s land to fulfil these on a local level while meeting climate demands. With an estimated £15 billion-£27 billion of investment

required in Scotland to reach net zero by 2045, the Commission has proposed a definition of community benefits in this context and a set of expectations about how community benefits should be identified and delivered.

The discussion paper has been released with a series of case studies, showcasing examples of existing land ownership, use, and management where investment has been crucial in transforming land to act in the interest of local communities.

Hamish Trench, Chief Executive at the Scottish Land Commission, said: “With Scotland attracting significant investment in natural capital it is important to ensure practical ways in which communities benefit. This discussion paper is intended to help shape practice that delivers on the principles the Scottish Government has set out for responsible investment.

“Community benefit should be a key consideration for land owners, investors and project developers. While there are many ways this can be approached,

the paper proposes some basic principles.”

Community benefits are packages delivering maximum value to local communities on a negotiated basis for long term use. These benefit packages arise from investment in natural capital enhancement, creation and restoration projects.

One of six supporting case studies demonstrates that land managed with community benefit can provide key financial return for surrounding communities.

Trees for Life – which owns and manages Dundreggan Estate in Glenmoriston – underwent a series of environmental projects, one of which saw the planting of a native woodland that sold its carbon units generated to corporate buyers for offsetting. The money raised through this particular project is invested back into local community initiatives and groups.

Hamish added: “The Trees for Life case study is just one example where communities have seen tangible benefits unlocked from the land around them.

“Scotland’s land plays a pivotal role in our everyday lives and so it is essential that communities are able to influence and benefit from natural capital projects, land decisions and land use.

“We hope this paper will stimulate the discussion on practical ways to help ensure that Scotland is maximising its land opportunities.”

The Scottish Land Commission provides advice and recommendations for reforms to law and policy as well as leadership for change in culture and practice, working to create a Scotland where everybody can benefit from the ownership and use of the nation’s land and buildings.

The Scottish Land Commission’s ‘Community benefits from investment in natural capital’ discussion paper can be found here: landcommission.gov.scot/ community-benefit.

Responses to this paper are welcome and can be sent by email to goodpractice@ landcommission.gov.scot before 20 March 2023.

The Hunting with Dogs (Scotland) Act 2023

By Jake Swindells, Director for Scotland, Scottish

On Tuesday 24th January the Hunting with Dogs (Scotland) Bill was debated on and passed by The Scottish Parliament. To this point, there was much uncertainty as to whether the use of a pack of dogs would continue in Scotland at all. The Scottish Countryside Alliance have spent the last 7 years gathering evidence, briefing politicians and trying to steer any potential legislation in a sensible direction. Following the Scottish Governments own commissioned report by Lord Bonomy, the SNP chose to cherry pick the bits that best suited their agenda and use these to commit to the introduction of a licensing scheme to use more than 2 dogs to search for and flush a wild mammal in Scotland. In doing so they also, inadvertently, foul-hooked rough shooting and professional pest control services when they announced that rabbits would also be protected under the bill.

The SCA and other organisations lobbied especially hard over the past year to try to make MSP’s and Ministers see sense where hunting with dogs is concerned. It was

Countryside Alliance

explained in no uncertain terms that they were tying the hands of livestock farmers, conservationists and pest controllers, which would have a serious knock-on affect on livestock welfare, red-listed and ground-nesting species, professional livelihoods and the mental health of those who depend on the control of pests and predators. An official report released the day before the bill at stage 1 clearly stated that we will lose

the iconic Capercaillie within 3 decades if we don’t get on top of predation in Scotland. Numerous farmers, vets and rural organisations spoke out in defence of this vital control method but, sadly, most of this fell on deaf ears. A small number of changes were effected following a hard-fought year of constant negotiations with the SNP. The bill as passed now allows for the use of more than 2 dogs when searching

Jake Swindells

for and flushing wild mammals, such as foxes and rabbits, under licence. This licence will be administered by NatureScot. Though the detail is yet to be confirmed and published, it is hoped that the threshold that would have to be met to have a licence granted would be similar to that of an existing General Licence. Providing the applicant could show that all other methods had been tried and failed (or were likely to fail) then a licence should be granted. There are 2 categories of licence. One for the protection of livestock and one for environmental benefit (conservation). There must be a minimum of guns stipulated on the licence (in the case of flushing a fox to guns) and also a maximum number of dogs to be used. This should rely heavily on the terrain being hunted and so open hill and thick forestry would have a larger pack granted than small strips of woodland.

Rough shooting will only be affected if more than 2 dogs join together to form a pack, something that isn’t usual in a generic beating line. Most beaters or walking guns work one or 2 dogs and, even if some have 3 or more, most often they work independently and so won’t get caught by the new Act.

The dispatch of mammals, such as foxes and rabbits, by dogs is no longer permitted. An injured fox still has to be shot, potentially prolonging suffering, and a bolting rabbit can no longer be caught and despatched by a dog under the new regulations. Terriers are still able to catch and kill rats and mice though. You

may also now only work one dog below ground providing it remains under control, whether it be physically or audibly.

Throughout the process of the bills’ journey through parliament, The Scottish Greens and Labour both vehemently stated that they would never support it, with Labour even stating on the day of the stage 3 debate that it “could never support the licensing of cruelty”. When it came to the crunch, both Labour and The Greens supported the bill, which allowed it to pass into law. The Scottish Conservatives voted against the bill with a vote of 90/30.

We will now be working with NatureScot to work towards guidance to accompany the new Act, to ensure that licence applicants, operators, the public and the Police are clear on what they can and can’t do. The new act will replace current legislation and commence in the Summer of 2023.

For further information on the Hunting with Dogs (Scotland) Act, please visit the Countryside Alliance website and take a look at our handy Q&A guide. https://www. countryside-alliance.org/ news/2023/1/huntingwith-dogs-scotland-act2023-q-a#:~:text=It%20 will%20no%20longer%20 be,but%20not%20rats%20 and%20mice.

Or sign up to our Heather Routes newsletter https:// countryside-alliance.acpage.com/heather-routesnewsletter

Making the connections

By Patrick Krause, Chief Executive, Scottish Crofting Federation

Crofting delivers many climate and biodiversity benefits, alongside production of food and the generation of social benefits for rural communities. With the right support crofting can do much more. Yet, the lack of coherence and connections between policy initiatives means that crofting is not getting enough credit for its potential to deliver outcomes across policies. Let’s look at 4 interlinked policy areas, that seem to be dealt with in Scottish Government ‘silos’: Agriculture. Clearly the system cannot continue as it is – for example public money supporting practice that created Nitrogen Vulnerable Zones. Decisions on redistribution of funds to support ecological practice is needed. Reform of the Less Favoured Areas Support Scheme should better target payments at marginalised (in terms of production capacity) and/or better reward the environmental benefits that are generated within high nature value areas. The suspension of key support measures for crofting under the Agri-Environment Climate Scheme (AECS) is contradictory. Biodiversity. Clear biodiversity targets are currently lacking, and are urgently needed to inform and drive decisionmaking under a new

agricultural framework and future food policies. Land-sharing systems which combine nature and food production, e.g., crofting in High Nature Value (HNV) areas, should receive much better recognition under Scottish biodiversity policies and future laws. Linking biodiversity and agricultural policy does not only require stricter conditions for those sectors that have not been doing enough, but also much better and more targeted support for systems that already deliver.

Wildlife Management. The lack of management of wild geese has resulted in a population explosion, upsetting the natural balance and putting vulnerable ecosystems, such as the machair and nature-friendly traditional agricultural practices, at risk. More and continuous funding is essential, as is a clear management plan with solid wildlife management targets. Land reform. More responsibilities should be placed on large-scale owners, including land under public ownership. The crofting system is ideal to ensure that more people have access to and can help manage our land. The creation of new crofts is key, not only to land reform, but to the delivery of our ambitions in the integrated sectors of a sustainable land use.

Cost of living to hit farm business margins in 2023

High inflation and the impact of the cost of living on consumer demand will continue to impact farm business planning in 2023, according to the latest AHDB Agri-market Outlook.

The damaging effects of inflation, the suppressed economic activity as a result of reduced spending power and the lack of flexibility in the labour market will converge to continue affecting farm business margins.

Farmers are particularly hard hit, facing higher input costs while simultaneously facing a price sensitive consumer market for their produce.

Sarah Baker, AHDB Economic Strategist, said: “The main issue with inflation is it drives down the real rate of growth in an economy, erodes households’ disposable income and leads to more cautious spending patterns. Coupled with rising input costs for farmers, the industry will face ongoing dual challenges this year.

“As inflation subsides, it doesn’t mean that prices are dropping, rather that they have stopped rising as quickly as they were before. Therefore, peoples’ living standards will take some time to catch up, depending on income growth. Consumer confidence, along with demand, will take some time to recover, despite inflation dropping as it is expected to during 2023.”

AHDB’s Agri-market outlook is produced every six months and examines the factors likely to affect farm businesses, helping levy payers plan and budget for what may lay ahead. The analysis features detailed market outlooks for each levy-paying sector covered by AHDB’s remit - beef & lamb, dairy, pork and cereals & oilseeds. The latest outlook also examines trends in farm business inputs and consumer demand.

Key findings include:

Beef:

• Production is to grow slightly in 2023 due to higher cattle availability, by an estimated 0.6%

• Consumption is forecast to ease by around 2% as cost of living pressures consumer budgets

• Imports are expected to fall by around 2%, driven by easing domestic demand

• Exports could grow slightly by around 3%, reflective of the domestic market balance

Lamb:

• An increase in production is forecast for 2023, driven by higher carry-over and a broadly stable lamb crop

• Consumption is expected to weaken, linked to recessionary pressures and tighter consumer budgets

• Imports are forecast to ease year on year, driven by weaker domestic demand

• Exports are forecast to grow, reflecting the projected domestic market balance and supported by continued demand from the EU

Pork:

• Pig meat production is forecast to decline by up to 15% year on year in 2023, driven by a reduction in clean pig kill in the first half of the year, following a significant drop in the breeding herd

• A gradual recovery in the breeding herd is expected, with numbers predicted to increase by 7,000 head between June 2022 and June 2023

• Imports are expected to grow to match the gap left by reduced domestic supplies, meanwhile exports are projected to decline as available domestic supplies tighten.

• Domestic demand continues

to ease, driven by the costof-living crisis reducing retail sales and eating-out demand

Dairy:

• GB milk production is forecast to record marginal growth in 2023 in the region of 0.3%. However, there is some risk of a contraction in production if margins deteriorate

• Despite some recent signs of lower inflation in agricultural input costs, replacement costs through 2023 will remain high, putting pressure on cash flows

• Global dairy demand is likely to remain challenged by low economic growth, although there is potential for improved import demand from China later in the year

• Domestic demand is also expected to be impacted by a squeeze on consumer incomes, with all products seeing lower sales

• Farmgate prices are expected to decline in the first half of 2023, with some potential for this to abate in the second half if inflation subsides and demand recovers

Cereals:

• Despite an increase in domestic wheat and barley availability this season, global price strength continues to provide a support level for domestic grain values. Price volatility is expected to continue, with a finely balanced global supply and demand, and the war ongoing in Ukraine

• Domestic winter crops for harvest 2023 are faring well, though fertiliser cost and application remain a key watchpoint.

• Exports are forecast stronger year on year for wheat and barley, due to increased domestic grain availability.

Oat export forecasts remain historically strong, though this season’s levels will be led by farmer selling and competitiveness on the global market

• Animal feed demand, and cereal usage, is expected to fall this season considering sector challenges from high input costs to Avian Flu. Brewing, malting, and distilling cereal usage is forecasted strong, with increased capacity coming online. A key domestic demand watchpoint remains bioethanol cereal usage, considering high costs and lower ethanol prices

Oilseeds:

• An increase in domestic production for rapeseed will slightly reduce the demand for imports. However, imports are forecast to remain historically high due to the UK domestic demand outweighing domestic production

• A sizable increase in area for harvest 2023 is forecast in reaction to the historically high prices over the past 18 months. Crops are faring well although there are reports of area loss due to on-going pest pressure

• Global supply and demand of rapeseed have both increased on the year. Increased availability in the EU is adding to price pressure and improving processor margins. EU crush demand is increasing on the year

• Domestically demand is expected to remain strong despite the closure of Hull at the end of 2022

• Ultimately rapeseed prices over the next 6 months will largely be driven by the direction of the soyabean market, which await a historically high South American crop

estate

Buccleuch & Oxygen Conservation agree Langholm moor land acquisition

Sale will see enhanced environmental work and complement neighbouring community ownership

Buccleuch has announced it has concluded missives with Oxygen Conservation in relation to the sale of 11,390 acres of the Langholm Moor, known as Blackburn and Hartsgarth.

The two parties have today completed missives for the sale of the property to take place in March 2023.

Buccleuch has long stated the strategic aim of reviewing its assets to ensure the business remains sustainable for the future and having taken the decision to sell the Langholm Moor in 2019, began a period of extensive community consultation, in line with the Scottish Land Commission’s good practice protocol. During this period, two local groups, The Langholm Initiative (TLI) and Newcastleton and District Community Trust (NDCT) came forward noting an interest in separate areas of the Moor. Sales of 760 acres to NDCT and 5,200 acres to TLI were completed in the course of 2020 and 2021 respectively, with TLI completing a purchase of an additional 5,246 acres in 2022.

With the sales to the communities complete, Buccleuch were delighted when Oxygen Conservation expressed an interest in the remaining area of the Moor, especially so as their commitment to the environment and the community are so closely aligned to Buccleuch’s values.

Benny Higgins, executive chairman of Buccleuch, said:

“The fit between Buccleuch and Oxygen Conservation could not be better; their work on the Moor will build upon and enhance the environmental work undertaken over the years by Buccleuch and their aims and objectives complement the work being undertaken on the neighbouring Tarras Valley Nature Reserve. “Buccleuch have long held the belief that the discussion around land ownership in Scotland should move from a debate about how much is owned by whom to an understanding of the beneficial impact that land management, delivered at scale, can have on both the environment and local communities. To see this mirrored in the aims and objectives of diverse newer landowners such as Oxygen Conservation and The Langholm Initiative will help to open up this discussion.”

Acquiring and managing land across the UK, the team at Oxygen Conservation aspire todemonstrate that scaling conservation can deliver significant positive environmental and social impact, generating a positive economic return as a result of their work, not as its purpose.

Rich Stockdale, Managing Director of Oxygen Conservation said: “Oxygen Conservation are delighted to

be given this opportunity to support the ongoing restoration of Blackburn and Hartsgarth’s wonderful landscape and work with the fantastic local community. We look forward to listening and sharing ideas with our new neighbours as we

develop a plan for this unique area that builds on the excellent environmental work already delivered by Buccleuch on site, and at the Tarras Valley Nature Reserve, to deliver genuine positive environmental and social impact.”

Landmark peatland report evidences importance of muirburn

Scottish Land & Estates has today welcomed a landmark report on the impact of different land management practices on peatland, and said the research provides a “golden standard” of evidence with which to shape the future of muirburn in Scotland.

Researchers at the University of York are conducting a 20-yearlong study into the management of heather-dominated peatland at the request of Natural England and DEFRA. They have reported major findings at the half-way stage of the project.

Comparing the impact of controlled burning (muirburn), mowing and leaving heather unmanaged, they found that of the three management scenarios: burnt plots had the highest net carbon absorption in the longterm, becoming carbon sinks within 5-7 years;

mown and unmanaged plots both absorbed about half the carbon per year of burnt plots; unmanaged plots released by far the most methane;

burning, in particular, was good for nutrient content for grazing animals, likely due to the fertilization that ash provides; unmanaged heather dried out the underlying peat and increased risk of wildfire, with the potential of triggering ‘catastrophic’ carbon loss as well as the destruction of wildlife and habitat.

Ross Ewing, Moorland Director at Scottish Land & Estates, said: “This report provides an authoritative, golden standard of evidence which demonstrates the importance of retaining muirburn as a land management tool for tackling the impacts of climate change and biodiversity loss on globally significant peatland habitats.

“The debate surrounding the protection of peatland has been far too polarised - a problem partly driven by widespread misunderstanding and, in some cases, misrepresentation of muirburn by parties who have little or no experience of the practice and its impacts.

“The clear implication from this research is that the Scottish Government’s proposal to ban muirburn where the underlying peat is deeper than 40cm would remove the most effective means of maximising carbon storage on a significant proportion of Scotland’s peatlands, and in turn increase the risk of catastrophic wildfires.

“Scottish Land & Estates urges the Scottish Government

to consider the findings of this research as it develops a regulatory framework for muirburn in Scotland. It is our strongest view that any depthbased restriction on muirburn would be completely meaningless and counterintuitive, and that the focus should be on specialist training for practitioners which will maximise adherence to best practice guidance.”

Farmers’ Curlew Award Launched

Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and the Yorkshire Agricultural Society (YAS) have joined forces to celebrate Northern farmers making a significant contribution to Curlew conservation.

Curlews were added to the UK red list of threatened species in in December 2015, and are considered to be the most pressing bird conservation priority in the UK.

Nominations for The Farmland Curlew Award 2023 are now open, and the winner will be announced at an awards ceremony at this year’s Great Yorkshire Show on Wednesday 12 July.

Farmers from Cumbria, Lancashire, North Yorkshire,

East Yorkshire, South and West Yorkshire, Tyne Tees and Northumberland are eligible for nomination.

Jayne Dyer from the YAS, said: “The Yorkshire Agricultural Society is pleased to be working with Nidderdale AONB to celebrate Curlew conservation in the North of England. The Farmland Curlew Award rewards farmers who create a safe haven for this iconic bird.”

The breeding population of Curlews have nearly halved since the mid-90s and in some parts of the UK there is a risk they will disappear in the next 20 years.

Paul Noyes, Wader Project Officer for the British Trust for

Ornithology, said: “Recognising and celebrating actions farmers take to benefit Curlew, no matter how big or small, is crucial if we are to halt and reverse the catastrophic declines we’ve seen over the last few decades.”

The Curlew is an iconic bird in Nidderdale, loved for its evocative call.

Matthew Trevelyan, Farming in Protected Landscapes Officer at Nidderdale AONB, said: “The Farmland Curlew Award has been created to ensure people are aware of this crisis. We also want to highlight the good farming practices that increase breeding success.”

The Nidderdale Way signposts are marked with the image of a Curlew in flight. Conservation efforts in the AONB help ensure it is a stronghold for the bird, placing Nidderdale AONB at the forefront of this internationally important conservation work.

Matthew Trevelyan added: “The AONB is working in partnership with the Yorkshire Agricultural Society, who are generously providing prizes. The Curlew Award will be awarded alongside the Tye Trophy, a long-standing award at the Yorkshire Show, recognising the contribution of farming to nature conservation.”

The seven county winners will each receive an engraved plaque and framed certificate. All winners will receive two complimentary tickets and a parking pass for the Great Yorkshire Show, and invited to a reception following the ceremony. Winners will also be encouraged to host a farm walk the following autumn to share best practice with other farmers.

Professor Russell Wynn, Manager of the Curlew Recovery Partnership, said: “Farmers play a vital role in Curlew conservation, especially as the majority of England’s breeding Curlews are found in farmland habitats. We therefore welcome

this new Farmland Curlew Award as it not only recognises and rewards farmers for their hard work protecting Curlews, but also provides an opportunity to highlight and share best practise - this will be of vital importance as we work with policy colleagues to ensure that appropriate measures enabling farmers to support Curlew conservation on their land are available in the enhanced Countryside Stewardship and the new Countryside Stewardship Plus schemes.”

Nominations are asked to include as much information as possible about the work their nominated farmers are doing to conserve the curlew. A panel of experts will select regional winners based on the integration of curlew conservation within their commercial farming operations.

The award panel are interested in farmers who have taken modest measures, year on year, to ensure curlew chicks fledge successfully.

Matthew Trevelyan commented: “One of the most effective things farmers can do is to delay mowing curlew meadows until the middle of July. Consider using a smaller mower and taking your time in these fields. By firstly mowing around the outside of the field and then splitting the meadow and working out towards the edges, we can ensure fledged chicks can be shepherded to safety; ideally into an area where there is still cover from predators.”

The environmentalist and author of Curlew Moon, Mary Colwell, said: “Farmers hold the key to the future of birds like Curlew, so I’m delighted to see this award recognising the wonderful work being done to help them.”

Closing date for nominations is 31 March, 2023, and entries can be emailed to Matthew Trevelyan: matthew.trevelyan@ harrogate.gov.uk

The value of rural estates

By Sarah Madden, Policy Advisor (Rural Communities) at Scottish Land & Estates

Demonstrating the value of rural estates and the contribution they make to Scotland has never been more important. Not only do estates have a role in addressing climate change, there is also a need to tackle the nature, environment and biodiversity crisis whilst also sustaining positive social and economic outcomes.

With that in mind, in early February SLE was delighted to unveil a landmark report - The Contribution of Rural Estates to Scotland’s Wellbeing Economy –produced by BiGGAR Economics.

The research demonstrates the landbased business sector’s contributions to seven of the eleven National Outcomes used by the Scottish Government to monitor progress in a number of areas which in turn foster a Wellbeing Economy.

Most significantly, estates are described in the report as Stewards of the Natural Environment, in that four out of five estates are actively engaged in conservation work, and account for around 57% of Scotland’s renewable energy capacity.

The research also describes estates as Engines of Rural Growth - generating an estimated £2.4bn Gross Value Added (GVA) every year for the Scottish Economy and supporting around 56,310 jobs. Furthermore, as Anchors for Thriving Communities, estates are also found to

play an important role in sustaining populations in some of Scotland’s more fragile rural communities, namely by providing homes and land for thousands of families and rural enterprises, with an appetite to increase this valuable contribution.

Those who live and work in the sector largely understand the diversity and increasingly progressive nature of landbased businesses and just how much work goes into delivering benefits for rural Scotland. Unfortunately, this is sometimes not well understood in wider public and political discourse. The fresh approach taken in investigating these wider societal benefits is intended to help with recognising estates as the diverse, modern businesses they are. It will also demonstrate how much potential they have in driving future efforts to establishing a Wellbeing Economy in Scotland.

For this to be realised, we hope policymakers will take the sector seriously as a delivery partner, foster a supportive policy environment to encourage this, and be committed to constructive dialogue and effective partnership working.

At Scottish Land & Estates, we are optimistic about this fresh approach and look forward to assisting an increase to the sector’s offerings to the National Outcomes - and to rural Scotland in the process.

Escape to the country

A shift to hybrid working practices following the coronavirus pandemic has led to some people swapping city living for country life.

Now an international project will explore the scale, and pros and cons, of these urban migration flows into rural, island and coastal communities across the globe.

The project, by Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) and The James Hutton Institute, will look

at how increased migration to rural and island areas offers opportunities for the future sustainability of these communities. It will also look at the challenges they faced in adapting to a period of rapid change.

The project, which has been awarded nearly £20,000 by the Royal Society of Edinburgh, will bring together researchers from across the world, including in Japan and Turkey, to share evidence and identify emerging policy and practice.

Lead researcher Jane Atterton, Manager and Policy Researcher at SRUC’s Rural Policy Centre, said: “There is increasing evidence from different countries that the Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in a new wave of urban migrants in search of rural, island or coastal living, motivated by access to open space and dispersed populations, and facilitated by a shift to hybrid working practices and improved digital connectivity.

“This project aims to build a strong, collaborative and sustainable international research network to understand these new migration patterns and their implications.”

Outputs from the project will be shared on SRUC’s Rural Exchange web portal which was set up last year to gather and host large-scale citizen science information.

For more information, visit: www.ruralexchange.scot

RSPCA urges UK Governments to follow

Scotland’s new

Many suspect this activity is used by hunts as a ‘smokescreen’ for illegal hunting

The RSPCA has welcomed Scotland’s announcement that it will ban trail hunting and urges England and Wales to do the same.

ban on trail hunting

The animal charity is concerned that some people are still determined to hunt foxes, regardless of the 2004 Hunting Act legislation. Hunts invented trail hunting - as opposed to drag hunting - when hunting with dogs was outlawed. But because of its

loopholes and grey areas, trail hunting is increasingly suspected as being used by hunts to mask ‘traditional’ illegal hunting with dogs.

The Scottish Government’s Hunting with Dogs Bill was backed by Members of the Scottish

Parliament yesterday (24 January), following a campaign by animal welfare organisations including The League Against Cruel Sports and Scottish SPCA.

RSPCA head of public affairs David Bowles said: “We welcome the Scottish Government’s

A new project will look at how urban migration is impacting rural communities

landmark decision to ban trail hunting, and MSP’s support for this. We urge the UK Government to follow Scotland’s lead for England and Wales.

“It has long been suspected that trail hunting is used as a smoke-screen for illegal hunting by those still determined to hunt foxes. Unfortunately, the nature of trail hunting, its loopholes and its legislative grey areas make enforcement of the Hunting Act very challenging for the authorities.

“While the 2004 Hunting Act in England and Wales was a landmark piece of legislation, Britain’s wildlife and the dogs exploited and injured by hunts could be better protected if trail hunting was banned in the same way that ‘traditional’ hunting with dogs has been banned.

“Until that time however, tightening up some elements of the Hunting Act might go some way to deter hunts which are still hellbent on carrying out illegal hunting under the guise of trail hunting.

“Until a full ban on trail hunting has been introduced in England and Wales, the RSPCA would welcome amendments to the Hunting Act that include; introducing an offence relating to negligence, a tighter definition of what hunting is, a repeal of exemptions which can act as loopholes, increased sentencing to include custodial sentences as well as fines, and for any convictions to be recorded on the Police National Computer.”

While hunting policy is not devolved to Wales, and thus still the responsibility of the UK Government and UK Parliament there, calls have also been made to the statutory and other authorities in Wales to act by banning trail hunting on land they control, and encouraging bans on other public land.

In 2021, National Resources Wales - a Welsh Government sponsored body - banned trail hunting on the more than 350,000 acres of land it controls.

To help the RSPCA continue rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals in desperate need of care please visit our website or call our donation line on 0300 123 8181.

Grey partridge success at Balgonie, Fife

Fiona Torrance, Research Assistant, Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust

Balgonie Estate in Fife is the most successful PARTRIDGE demonstration site in Scotland. Funded by the EU’s North Sea Region Interreg programme, the project at Balgonie aims to show how farmland biodiversity can be supported alongside productive agriculture by a variety of measures designed originally to benefit the grey partridge. With this information, we hope to show how such measures would improve agrienvironment schemes. Grey partridge counts in 2022 at Balgonie have underlined just what an amazing success story this has been so far.

The Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust started with the farm team at Balgonie (Kingdom Farming), alongside Kings Crops and Scottish Agronomy in 2014 with the aim to increase populations of grey partridge and other wildlife through targeted management interventions, primarily in the form of novel

habitats. We wanted to provide safe nesting cover, insect-food for chicks, winter food (mostly a variety of seeds and other vegetation) and winter cover (protection from predators). A key part of any wildlife-management project is to assess progress. At Balgonie we have employed adaptive management so that every year we assess grey partridge numbers and if it’s not working then we make adjustments.

In spring, we drive around as many fields as possible counting pairs and then in autumn we record coveys (family groups, plus the odd straggler) seen in stubble fields. This provides an estimate of the breeding population (pairs) and breeding success (from the ratio of young and old birds in the coveys). If we’re doing a good job, we should see the number of pairs increase over time along with the ratio of chicks to adults, which in turn should lead to more birds in the autumn.

And indeed, grey partridges at Balgonie have responded fantastically to our management. Spring pairs increased by 40% over the period, 33% since PARTRIDGE began, and the autumn total by 260%. Compared to data from the GWCT’s Partridge Count Scheme, pair density at Balgonie is more than double the average for Scotland and likewise the autumn density is approaching three times as high.

In addition, whilst the population trend over time is clearly positive at Balgonie, we know that grey partridge numbers continue to decline nationally, with breeding populations falling by 92% since the late 1960s in the UK and by around 19% during approximately the same period as this project, according to data from the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO). So, in this instance it’s great to have a success story and clearly a lot that we can learn – and implement elsewhere – from it.

Community woodland planting in Dingwall

From tiny acorns…

Galbraith giveaways equivalent to a whole new woodland

Many might think that the Forestry Grants Scheme is there mainly for large commercial woodland creation schemes – but that’s not the reality.

In fact, around half of all the recent woodland creation applications to Scottish Forestry are for quite small schemes, many by farmers and crofters.

Another equally important area of Scottish Forestry’s work is to support community woodland projects.

One such project is at Dingwall, where local people and a local farmer have joined forces to plant a new community woodland.

Scottish Forestry is also supporting the project with £33,000 of grant funding.

Over 7,000 new native trees, mainly oak and birch, are set to create the new woodland located in fields behind the town’s Macrae Crescent.

The woodland will be the size of around five large football fields and will contain open ground and a path network to encourage recreation.

The idea of the community woodland came from local farmer and land management

consultant Richard Lockett of Knockbain Farm, with the Dingwall Community Woodland Group being set up to manage the project.

On seeing the first trees planted, on land that makes up his family’s farm, Richard Lockett said:

“It really is fantastic to see all this hard work now coming to fruition. The enthusiasm and energy of the local community has been brilliant.”

Scottish Forestry’s local woodland officer, Donald Macleod, has worked closely with those developing the woodland plans so that Forestry Grant Scheme and Community Fund money could be accessed.

The community woodland project at Dingwall is being hailed as a shining example of local people, farming and Scottish Forestry coming together to plant trees for nature, climate change and to strengthen a community’s health and well-being.

The tree planting will also contribute towards the Scottish Government’s annual tree planting targets which aim to tackle the twin crises of climate change and biodiversity loss.

The Galbraith forestry department has given away almost 1,500 trees to members of the public in the past three years, enough to cover 2.4 acres, or a hectare of new woodland.

The forestry team regularly attends events and open days, where carefully wrapped, native cell-grown trees from Alba Trees provide an excellent promotional gift with an environmental conscience.

A total of 1,500 saplings have been distributed, which if planted would create a woodland the size of four supermarkets, one and a half football pitches, or a car park for 360 cars!

James Reid, a forester with Galbraith in Inverness, said: “Trees as a gift provide a fun way to engage with people and get them thinking about the difference they can make in their local community whether it is planting a tree in their own

garden or volunteering to help in a local woodland project. Even a small number of trees in an urban environment can make a huge difference – providing habitat for wildlife, cooling the air in the summer and absorbing carbon dioxide.”

A mature tree can absorb up to 150kg of CO2 a year, making a valuable contribution to combating the effects of greenhouse gas emissions. The Galbraith promotional trees would absorb 225,000kg of CO2 if all grow to maturity, equivalent to taking 117 cars off the road each year.

Galbraith manages over 30,000 hectares of woodland across Scotland and Northern England and also advises on new woodland creation, forest certification, grants and licences, timber harvesting and marketing, carbon audits, biodiversity and habitat restoration.

Prescription nutrition available for forestry growers in convenient 25kg fertiliser bags

A new state-of-the-art bagging line will produce 25kg bags of fertiliser aimed at professional growers in the forestry, horticultural and amenity sectors looking for a more convenient way to improve soil fertility through targeted nutrition.

The line has been installed at Origin Fertilisers’ Silloth production site in Cumbria and has an automatic palletiser and shrink wrap to help keep the bags in pristine condition.

The new 25kg product lines are available throughout the UK and will be of particular interest to users who don’t require, or have the space to store, fertiliser products in the traditional bulk quantities associated with larger bags, such as the smallholder or equine markets.

A wide range of products are available, including the option of Origin’s Nutri-Match prescription service, which matches fertiliser grades to the soil’s nutritional requirements.

“The 25kg line offers growers in different markets the option to buy smaller bags in manageable quantities and not feel tied to ordering lorry loads of bulk product, which can be a strain on cashflow and storage,” says Richard Clark, sales director at Origin Fertilisers.

“We wanted to extend the use of our prescription matching service, which targets nutritional inputs to the soil’s needs based on a detailed soil analysis. This has been proven to increase yields and crop quality and offers growers the option to include up to 14 essential nutrients in any one blend.”

The 25kg bag range includes four standard grades – 20-10-10

Could computer models help restore nature?

By Fiona Plenderleith, The James Hutton Institute researcher

or 24-4-4 – and buyers also have the option to add sulphur in the 1313-20 + 4.5SO3 and 15-15-15 + 4.5SO3 blends.

Also available in the 25kg line are products from Origin’s Natural Nutrition range, which is derived solely from naturally occurring materials to help improve soils with phosphate, potash, sulphur and calcium.

“This is aimed at growers wanting to minimise their impact on the environment and only use naturally mined products on their crops. These include phosphate and potassium, along with polysulphate, which offers a slow release of sulphur to help with nitrogen use efficiency.

“Further benefits of using the smaller bags include less undercover space required to store them and easier to transport to the field,” adds Mr Clark.

The minimum order for 25kg bags is 40 to fit on a one tonne pallet load for easy delivery and storage. Growers after the NutriMatch prescription blend in 25kg bags will need to order eight tonnes of a single grade.

The bags are available through a range of national and regional merchants or by speaking to your local Origin Fertilisers’ sales representative.

Invertebrates are essential for ecosystem functioning and are reliant on well-connected habitats. When forests are fragmented, forest insect populations are forced to live in isolated populations, at risk of interbreeding. The resulting loss of genetic diversity leaves populations vulnerable to extinction from sporadic events, like disease and extreme weather.

As a researcher at The James Hutton Institute (JHI), and final year PHD student at University of Aberdeen (UoA), I have completed the first stages of computer modelling research which could illuminate the best tree planning solution to link fragmented forests and allow insect populations to mix.

Due to the variabilities across forests, the ideal pattern for expanding tree cover to increase ecological and genetic connectivity is unknown. This is because the traits of the species within a forest, the landscape, and their interactions are unique.

Using a trial area, the research looked at four scenarios for increasing tree cover - expanding existing forests, steppingstones (small clumps of trees), tree corridors, and riparian corridors (areas next to rivers).

By using the computer modelling software to simulate invertebrates moving between forests, we were able to predict how changes in tree cover would impact population connectivity. Increasing tree cover improved ecological and genetic connectivity. Expanding existing forest patches resulted in the largest decrease in mortality during dispersal. But, where land was available, riparian corridors indicated the best results, with the potential to increase connectivity more efficiently, allowing for more genetically diverse and resilient insect populations. How the model invertebrate populations responded to the increase in tree cover varied with species and landscape characteristics. This vital finding could have important consequences for the future, when designing strategies for improving forest connectivity or establishing studies to monitor impacts.

Although this research is the first step in rebuilding well-connected forests, it shows hope at what can be achieved by using computer modelling to support the restoration of our planet.

The James Hutton Institute is a world-leading scientific research organisation working to resolve global challenges in food, climate, energy and water security. The Institute works in partnership with people, organisations and governments to enhance sustainable environmental, social and economic development to deliver practical solutions for our shared future. www.hutton.ac.uk

Pöttinger semi-mounted reversible plough gets out of the furrow and into pure satisfaction

MAgricultural machinery manufacturer Pöttinger adds an important feature to the equipment options on the SERVO T 6000. With the On-Land package, the semimounted reversible plough for tractors with an output of up to 500 hp gets additional application flexibility. Switching from ploughing in the furrow to ploughing outside the furrow takes just a few simple steps. Soil conservation is enhanced by using tractors with wide tires, dual wheels or crawler tracks for efficient power transmission. However, if this is not possible due to the site conditions, the plough turnover mechanism can also be set for in the furrow if required.

When conditions change, the switch between in-furrow ploughing and On-Land ploughing is done very quickly in a few steps. The hydraulic swing-out On-Land beam link pushes the frame of the SERVO T 6000 outwards so that the plough

follows the tractor centrally. This means that it can be used with tractors with an outer width of up to 4 metres, providing plenty of space for dual wheels and crawler tracks. To ensure consistent depth guidance when ploughing outside the furrow, an optional depth wheel provides support in front of the first plough share so it is guided at the precise working depth. This is designed as a space-saving pivot depth wheel within the plough beam. Due to intelligent use of the spool valves, no additional connection is necessary on the tractor for the hydraulic adjustment mechanism.

Large tractors are often fitted with wide tyres or dual wheels, this results in not enough space in the plough furrow and driving over ploughed ground is sometimes unavoidable. This is where the SERVO T 6000 with the On-Land equipment option comes in, because the tractor drives outside the furrow on the ground that has not been

ploughed. This not only improves the tractor’s power transmission to the ground, but also conserves the soil due to the large contact area of the tractor and minimises harmful compaction in deeper soil layers. Likewise, it eliminates the risk of smearing the bottom

of the furrow due to wheel slip from tractors driving in the furrow. Preventing compaction promotes crop root growth, soil life, and ensures access to water and nutrients. This is the basis for a healthy crop and a successful harvest.

OPICO launches the Strautmann Magnon 8 into the UK

OPICO introduces the range of Magnon 8 Forage Wagons to the UK just in time for the 2023 forage season. The Magnon 8s are the smaller sibling in the top of the range Magnon series and follow the successful 2019 launch and rollout of the Magnon 10 range.

The Magnon 8 is a compact machine with a loading capacity of 36m³ to 44m³ (DIN). It has a smaller ‘external’ footprint to other wagons with similar DIN. The range features a new moving

front wall, as well as FlexLoad pick-up and Exact Cut as standard. The three models in the Magnon 8 series (370, 410 and 450) are aimed primarily at agricultural businesses and contractors, with high demands, who are dependent on compact dimensions.

The hydraulically moving front wall provides the Magnon 8 with increased capacity. When the wagon starts filling, the front wall is in a vertical position towards the rear of the

wagon, but when chopped grass builds up and pushes against the tailgate sensor the front panel moves forward, in three stages, to increase capacity. This ensures maximum density is achieved throughout the loading operation. The movement of the front wall provides an additional 4.5 m³ loading capacity when the

cargo space is completely filled. When discharging, the front wall is hydraulically moved to the rear of the machine to assist with unloading.

All Strautmann forage wagons benefit from the Continuous Flow System (CFS) pick-up unit which ensures excellent loading, coupled

with a low power requirement. All CFS units offer unrivalled adaptation to ground contours, long service life and extremely easy tine change. The extrawide, 2.25m, CFS pick up of the Magnon 8 ensures a wide swath of grass can be collected, which is particularly useful around corners, and means the outer

edge of the rotor is kept full of forage to even out loading across the full width of the rotor. The rotor is powered via an oilbath gearbox to the rotor. The high (1000rpm) speed through the drive line is reduced to the rotor for both maximum torque and preservation of the drive line.

Farmstar 80 HBD offers smaller users accurate spreading

Smaller farmers looking for the ability to accurately spread a variety of different products should be considering Bunning’s Farmstar 80 HBD to increase the timeliness of field operations without the need for a contractor.

The Farmstar 80 HBD is Bunning’s smallest horizontal beater and spinning disc (HBD) spreader and the only model in the Farmstar HBD range. It features a carrying capacity of eight tonnes and spreading is handled by a single dynamically balanced 695mm horizontal beater on to 1.1m twin spinning discs.

The beater has reversible hardened Boron cutters on it to shred products, to maintain consistency and increase service life. This helps keep material

uniform by breaking down lumpy manures before spreading via the spinning discs, with 12–36m application widths possible depending on the product. Spread width can be adjusted via five blade positions on the discs, as well as an adjustable rear canopy to tweak the spread pattern.

A proven full width socket-fit floor slat design, with 80 grade 16mm floor chains, is standard on the Farmstar 80 HBD and used on Bunning spreaders up to the Lowlander 150 Mk4 15t machine. The design ensures that the whole floor is cleared and that an even flow of product is presented to the beater.

The 80 HBD features a onepiece spinner deck gearbox, which is identical to the bigger

Bunning spreaders, while all come with a standard threeyear warranty. Extras include a wide-angle PTO, 240mm

side extensions for additional load carrying, and Isobus compatibility with weigh cells and on the go rate control.

Vaderstad acquires Thyregod A/S

inter-row cultivators

Väderstad has acquired parts of the Danish company Thyregod that produces a full product range of inter-row cultivators. The acquisition includes all intellectual property rights to Thyregod’s inter-row cultivator product area; the TRV range including the Swingking.

Thyregod A/S is a Danish agricultural brand with roots that go back to 1918. For more than 25 years, it has worked to develop, produce and sell inter-

row cultivators. The spring of 2023 will be a transition period and Väderstad will take over the responsibility for the inter-row cultivator business June 1st.

Thyregod’s inter-row cultivators are a perfect match to Väderstad’s current portfolio of Tempo planters and to its new technologies for seeding within the Proceed concept and for future sustainable and efficient farming.

During the years the

Thyregod TRV technology has been optimized to the last detail, with a patented section lift, countless adjustment options and the world’s first cameracontrolled inter-row cultivator with individual frames that are each controlled by a camera.

More…

The TRV Swingking has a unique frame solution that holds two frames into one main frame. This improves efficiency and saves a pass. Also, the high main frame together with a patented solution for lifting the row units, avoids damaging plants while increasing speed.

“Our new and existing farmer customers will increasingly use inter-row crop cultivators and it is essential that we include them in our product range,” says Vaderstad UK’s sales

and marketing manager Andy Gamble. “We have already identified that in the future many of our Tempo farmers will move to more mechanical solutions for weed control.

“As there is usually a challenge to match an inter-row cultivator to a seeding machine, Väderstad can now offer farmers a complete solution,” he says. “Adding an inter-row cultivator to our product range also optimizes our future Proceed concept in cereals.”

Initially, the inter-row cultivators will be sold under the Thyregod brand, and manufactured in Thyregod’s production facilities in Denmark. From June 2024, they will carry the Väderstad brand and more details about this will be announced prior to Agritechnica 2023.

Lemken’s new transport carriage for large furrow presses

When ploughing, furrow presses are mainly used if there is not enough time for the soil

to settle gradually and tilth to form naturally. Furrow presses immediately restore capillary

action and therefore retain moisture in the soil. LEMKEN, the plough specialist, is now introducing a new trailer for its proven VarioPack furrow press, which allows even large furrow presses used with six-furrow or larger mounted and semimounted ploughs to be easily transported by road.

The VarioPack with trailer is coupled to the tractor via a cross shaft and with a transport width of 2.8 metres even narrow field tracks pose no problem. As the trailer is EU-approved for speeds of up to 40 km/h, VarioPack presses can now quickly and easily be transported to the field.

The implement is switched hydraulically from its transport to its working position from the cab. The arms of the VarioPack can be adjusted vertically, laterally and in length, allowing

them to be optimally adapted to any given conditions. This ensures reliable capture even

on slopes, and the furrow press can be run close to the plough to minimise side draft.

Kuhn balers offered with £500 discount

KUHN Farm Machinery is offering a £500 discount on the full range of KUHN balers. The offer will be available from a network of dealers throughout the UK including nine specialist baler centres.

KUHN Baler Centres were set up in 2020 to provide sales and servicing coverage across Great Britain, with dealership staff receiving enhanced training and businesses constantly stocked to supply essential parts.

The trailer is available for large VarioPack double furrow presses with 70 or 90 cm rings.

The offer is valid from January 1st 2023 to July 31st 2023, as part of the continued ‘Go Further With Your Forage’

initiative, and will include all fixed, variable, round and square balers.

KUHN Baler Centres offer

dedicated demonstration events and comprehensive online support through the MyKUHN customer portal. All new

machines, including the FB, VB, FBP, VBP, SB and i-BIO models will be available with £500 off the nett price.

Fendt increases grass kit options ahead of season

Fendt has launched several changes to key grass kit models with automated adjustments, additional optional extras, and technology functions to increase operational efficiencies for its equipment.

An updated version of Fendt’s largest Former 14055 PRO four rotor rake features a new auto adjust tine height system that changes the position of the tines in relation to forward speed. The contractor-spec rake features flexHIGH auto raking height adjustment, that will reduce forage losses and contamination by matching tine height to the tractor’s speed. As the speed increases, the system lowers the rotors to control the distance between the tines and the field. As the speed drops, the rotors are raised to prevent forage

contamination. Fendt’s gapControl monitors the overlap between the front and rear rotors with the information shown on the display. A warning sound will help prevent forage loss around corners, helping to maximise the working width.

A new myMemory function can help operators shorten set up and folding times by logging previously saved settings into a memory that can be activated at the touch of a button. Settings such as working width, swath width and raking height can all be saved to the integrated system, allowing the rake to automatically return to the correct parameters, reducing the potential for operational errors.

Elsewhere, flat sealing hydraulic couplings are now

available to allow high flow rates and prevent pressure loss, while new guarding helps keep debris away from the hydraulic

components. Finally, a new LED light package illuminates the rotors, enabling operators to keep tabs on the four rotors after dark.

New functions for JAGUAR model range from Claas

The 2023 model year will see the JAGUAR 900 and JAGUAR 900 TERRA TRAC forage harvesters from CLAAS benefit from an optimised PICK UP drive while the JAGUAR 800 series is expanded with new and more powerful models. In addition, the CEMIS 1200 terminal with the new GPS PILOT becomes available for all models.

PICK UP intake auger with speed adjusted automatically in accordance with ground speed

It was in 2021 that CLAAS introduced a third, customerspecifiable drive variant for the front attachment on the JAGUAR 900 and JAGUAR 900 TERRA TRAC models in the form of an additional hydraulic drive for the reel of the PICK UP. This

drives the reel independently of the intake auger with automatic, variable speed adjustment relative to the ground speed. The result is an efficient raking action at any speed with minimal intake losses and very low wear.

With effect from the 2023 model year, this drive system is enhanced with additional functionality that automatically adjusts the PICK UP speed to the ground speed above 5 km/h. If the ground speed or the set chop length is changed, the speeds of the pick-up reel and intake auger are automatically matched to the prevailing conditions. This results in an even more consistent crop flow, especially where there are frequent and significant changes in swath

thickness. If necessary, both speeds can also be adjusted manually from the cab by the

operator in accordance with the requirements of the harvest. This has the benefit that crop feed

is even more precise, resulting in a more consistent crop flow through the forager, especially when operating under varying conditions.

Also new is the automatic chain lubrication for the left-side drive of the intake auger and pick-up reel.

With effect from the 2023 model year, the JAGUAR 840 receives the larger MercedesBenz OM 471 LA Stage V sixcylinder engine already used in the JAGUAR 850. Its ample displacement of 12.8 litres means that engine output for the smallest forage harvester in the current CLAAS product range is increased by 27 hp, taking the maximum output to 435 hp at 1,600 rpm and making significantly greater torque reserves available. The excellent JAGUAR efficiency is maintained as the increased displacement has no effect on the diesel consumption per tonne of throughput.

Bobcat Introduces New Compact Tractor Line-up

A new line of Bobcat Compact Tractors has been launched for the Europe region.* Bobcat Compact Tractors are part of the ground maintenance equipment (GME) range announced by the company last October. Building on the company’s success in the North American market, Bobcat aims to rank within the top-three GME players in Europe and to double growth in global GME market by 2027. Together with the Compact Tractors, the GME range in EMEA includes mowers and turf equipment, as well as Bobcat’s existing mini track and small articulated loaders.

Daniele Paciotti, GME Product Line Director for Bobcat, said: “Bobcat is offering three Compact Tractor platforms – the

1000, 2000 and 4000 series –which feature nine new models from 25 to 58 HP designed to meet the varying needs of customers in

EMEA. First deliveries of compact tractors to our dealers are planned for February with the initial focus on Italy, UK, Poland and Benelux,

where our dealers have showed a great deal of interest.”

Bobcat Compact Tractors are designed to increase productivity, versatility and reliability. Whatever the application, these machines help to get the job done efficiently thanks to their robust construction, smooth operation, flexible configuration and full compatibility with a wide range of Bobcat attachments.

Each of the nine models in the Bobcat compact tractor range varies in size and engine horsepower, with the option to choose between manual and hydrostatic transmissions: 3-point hitch with telescopic or quick lower links and open canopies (ROPS) and cabs. All the models offer all-day comfort in the cleverly designed and generously appointed workspace. With air conditioning (cab models), a suspended seat, an adjustable steering wheel, linked pedal and intuitive ergonomic controls.

BOSS 3000, the latest version of the classic from Pottinger

Following the launch of the new BOSS 3000 MASTER loader wagons with the innovative EVOMATIC loader unit, Pöttinger is now also launching the BOSS 3000 series featuring the classic SUPERMATIC tine conveyor unit. This move will see the popular and widely used EUROBOSS series being completely replaced in 2023. The new BOSS 3000 is available in three sizes with load capacities of 18.7 m³, 21.3 m³ and 23.5 m³ as both high profile and LowProfile (LP) versions.

The tine conveyor system originating from the EUROBOSS is known for very high forage conservation combined with the lowest power requirement. The loading system can be ordered with three or four arms, which

can also be used to load heavy silage. The loader wagons are driven as standard at 540 rpm at the PTO, and can be operated by tractors as small as 60 hp. Above

that, up to 110 hp is also possible. As an option, the driveline is also available for a PTO speed of 1,000 rpm. As standard, the BOSS is equipped without knives.

Six knives can be slotted in as an option. The knife bank with 16 or 31 knives can be folded out by an optional hydraulic system and then swung out alongside using EASYMOVE. All the knives are individually protected against foreign objects.

The pick-up with an effective width of 1800 mm (DIN) has a freedom of movement of 120 mm at the outermost tine. In especially demanding terrain, a trailing jockey wheel chassis further improves ground tracking. Ground tracking can also be optimised with the AUTOTAST active parallel lift drawbar. The five pick-up tine carriers, which are guided by a cam track, are driven by a maintenancefree V-belt.

The hydraulically dry forage extension can now be equipped with an automatic folding system. Optional nets prevent the crop from snagging or falling out between the struts. For longer working days, an LED lighting package is also available.

Dealer acquisition strengthens John Deere’s agriculture and turf proposition in Northern Ireland

John Deere’s agricultural and sports turf machinery will be available through a single, larger dealer in the counties of Antrim, Derry/Londonderry, Armagh and Down after Stephen W Moore LTD announced that it is acquiring its neighbouring franchise, Johnston Gilpin & Co LTD.

Both Coleraine and Lisburn branches will continue trading from the current locations, and customers will experience a simplification of all aspects of parts and service in the region as a result of the move, which is in line with Deere’s Dealer of Tomorrow strategy.

All Johnston Gilpin & Co employees will be transferred to Stephen W Moore, and the company’s branch in Lisburn will continue to trade under the name Johnston Gilpin.

The expanded dealership will offer the full range of John Deere agricultural machinery as well as domestic and professional turf care products, supplying farms, homes, sports venues and golf courses with the same quality equipment and aftersales service they have received under the previous structure.

Dealer Principal Stephen Moore said: “This is an exciting time as we prepare to nearly double the size of our business with the next stage of our evolution.”

FARMING

Next issue May 2023

Kverneland Group acquires Phenix Agrosystem

Kverneland Group has signed an agreement to acquire 100% of the shares in French company BC Technique SAS, which produces the Phenix Agrosystem brand of inter-row cultivators, rotary hoes, guidance interfaces and tine harrows.

This latest acquisition is a move that provides access to range of sustainable farming solutions, enabling growers to achieve efficient, accurate and consistent mechanical weed control.

While the Phenix brand will continue to be available in those markets where it currently exists, these premium products and solutions will be introduced as Kverneland

products, available through the Kverneland dealer network. The portfolio includes the Helios star-wheel equipped

rotary hoe; Lynx guidance interface with colour scanning self-steering camera for use with any existing hoe; and the

high-tech X-Green guidance interface solution that can be equipped with up to two colour scanning self-steering cameras.

In addition, the product range includes the Onyx series of row-specific tined hoes offering working widths from 3-12m. When equipped with ISOBUS and the X-Control parallelogram, the Onyx offers section control through automatic raise and lower of individual weeding assemblies at headlands.

This high precision capability also enables the inter-row Onyx hoe to be used in conventionally spaced cereal crops at 12.5cm row widths, boosting output and productivity. Product specifications and pricing details are still to be announced, with the first models expected to arrive during Spring 2023.

Crawfords Group take on the OPICO range of machinery

OPICO is pleased to announce that the Crawfords Group will be joining its established dealer network.

Established in 1980 as an agricultural machinery dealership in Essex, Crawfords have expanded to seven depots and have extended their reach into Kent, Sussex, Surrey and Hampshire. A key AGCO dealer since 2001, Crawfords Group runs the Fendt and Valtra Franchise from their Crawfords depots and the Massey Ferguson Franchise from their Agwood depots.

Wes Crawford, Managing Director at Crawfords Group commented, “We are a familyrun business. Maintaining our

high level of customer service and company values is as important today as it was 40 years ago. We’ve found that

OPICO’s vision aligns with our own and, of course, it helps that they offer a premium machinery portfolio to complement our

existing range! Our team are really looking forward to learning about the machines and can’t wait to demonstrate them to our customers.”

“Working with Crawfords is a win-win situation,” says Charles Bedforth, Sales Director. “A cornerstone in our strategy is to partner with leading dealers throughout the country. In Wes and his team, we believe we will create a long-term relationship for the benefit of both companies but especially for Crawford and Agwood customers.”

Crawfords Group will sell OPICO grain dryers, mechanical weeding, arable and grassland equipment, alongside HEVA cultivation and grassland machines, SKY drills (Agwoods only) and Strautmann forage and feeding wagons.

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Continental Agricultural Tyres: New Tyre Size with VF Technology for High-Performance Tractors

Continental has launched its largest tractor tyre to date, the VF TractorMaster VF900/60R42. With a diameter of 2,147 millimetres, the tyre weighs 450 kilogrammes and has a load index of 189 (10,300 kg). The tyre size is specifically designed to manage the weight, improve the grip, and reduce the impact of agricultural machinery with over 300 horsepower.

Bigger, faster, heavier: new tyre size addresses industry trend Rising costs and the pressure to transport increasingly larger loads in a shorter time mean that the demand for powerful agricultural machinery is growing.

Benjamin Hübner, product line manager for agricultural tyres at

Continental: “This development not only demands top performance from machines, but also from their tyres. That is why we develop and test our agricultural tyres in close consultation with our customers.”

The trend toward large machines is the primary goal of working even more efficiently and cost-effectively. In 2022, Continental therefore launched five new tyre sizes of its VF TractorMaster (650/60 R 34; 650/65 R 42; 710/75 R42; 650/65 R 34; 710/60 R 34).

Suitable for field and road

Thanks to VF technology, the tyre can be driven with 40 percent more load at the same tyre pressure as a standard tyre or 40 percent less tyre pressure at the same load. In addition,

tyres with VF technology operate more fuel-efficiently than conventional tractor tyres.

Hübner commented: “The VF TractorMaster combines efficiency and soil preservation. The VF technology allows for a smooth transition from field to road without having to adjust the tyre pressure. At the same time, the impact of heavy machinery on the soil is minimised by a wider tread surface when working in the field.”

Continental is striving to continuously expand its agricultural tyre business as part of its Vision 2030 strategy. The expansion of the portfolio and the realignment of the Agricultural Tyres business field, headed by Ivonne Bierwirth, underscore the company’s growth strategy.

Cost-effective solution to 2025 splash plate ban

Slurry specialist Tramspread has announced it will be working with farmers to help reduce the cost of complying with the government’s Clean Air Strategy that will see splash plates banned

in 2025. Managing Director, Terry Baker explains:

“In less than two years there will be thousands of tankers left potentially redundant, having not been converted to work with a

precision applicator to adhere to the splash plate ban. Tramspread has a universal method to retrofit dribble bar and trailing shoe applicators to tankers.”

Tramspread is able to retrofit its Suffolk range dribble bar systems, with working widths of 6 metres to 10.5 metres, to most sizes and brands of tanker. The key is a clever four-point attachment that critically does not mount to the door of the tanker.

“Rust can form around doors, and the hinges are often not secure enough to fit dribble bars to. By welding a fourpoint attachment to the body of the tanker, we provide new fixing points on the rear of the tanker that the boom framework attaches to using telescopic arms,” says Mr Baker.

Around 88% of ammonia (NH3) emissions in the UK come from agriculture. This occurs through open storage, but also through the use of splash

plates. Nitrogen, in the form of ammonia, is lost from organic manure when it comes into contact with air, particularly on warm or windy days. The 2025 splash plate ban seeks to reduce this and will be followed by a 2027 initiative that will expect all slurry to be covered. To help with the cost, The Rural Payment Agency is offering ‘Annex 3 :FEFT 2023 productivity and slurry eligibility items grants’ to help farmers comply with the clean air strategy.

“Many farmers and contractors have already embraced precision application as it improves overall nutrient management and has the potential to reduce reliance on manufactured fertiliser. However, for those who have not updated their applicator there are grants available and retrofitting an old tanker is a cost-effective option that will help the farm comply with the 2025 splash plate ban,” he concludes.

Top tree surgery business expands with latest Bobcat machines

Over the last six to seven years, HTC Arbor Services Ltd, a tree surgery company based in Northamptonshire in the UK, has continued to expand with the purchase of

new Bobcat mini-excavators, loaders and attachments. The Bobcat equipment has been supplied and is supported by Peterborough-based RTC Plant Services Ltd (www.rtcplant.

com), the Authorised Bobcat dealer for Cambridgeshire, Northamptonshire and Bedfordshire.

Andy Hollingsworth, company owner and founder of HTC, who has many years of tree surgery experience, said: “At HTC, we have operated in virtually every scenario including residential, local council, new build developers and in the rail

and power industries. I must pay thanks to the excellent service and advice provided by Dave Ellis and the team at RTC. Our preference for the high performance of the Bobcat brand mirrors our commitment to providing a friendly and professional service, whilst delivering the highest standard of tree surgery and felling.”

Andy started the business 16 years ago, becoming a limited company half way through that time. The Bobcat story at HTC began shortly after with the purchase of an E26 2.6 tonne mini-excavator which often works together with a tracked woodchipper.

Andy Hollingsworth added: “We prefer compact plant like Bobcat mini-excavators and

compact track loaders because of the access they provide to the restricted and tight areas we are almost always required to work in. There is also a massive productivity advantage from the use of Bobcat machines and attachments. Work that would take a gang of five workers a week, we can complete in just two days with three staff.”

Increased demand for triple auger mixers

Over the past year, BvL has seen a considerable increase in UK sales of their larger V-MIX PLUS triple auger mixers, due to the benefits they offer in terms of ration mix consistency and reduced operating cost.

Over three times as many were sold in 2022 compared to the previous year and includes the recent order for the largest triple auger machine in the BvL range – the 46m3 V-MIX PLUS, which will be one of the largest trailed

diet feeders working on-farm in the UK.

“For consistent yield and milk quality you need a consistent ration mix. Cows don’t like change,” explains BvL specialist John Molton. “It is not uncommon to see a 17 or 20m3 diet feeder being replaced by a 30+m3 triple auger machine. Not only does it save a lot of time, but because they are perhaps only doing three mixes instead of six, overall ration consistency is improved

considerably. Also by maybe only needing one mix instead of two for

a group of cows, again group ration consistency is improved.”

Cereals 2023

Cereals 2023, will take place on Tuesday 13 and Wednesday 14 June at the new venue, Thoresby Estate, Perlethorpe, Nottinghamshire UK.

Cereals will showcase the latest developments in arable agronomy, machinery, technology and services.

In addition to new and returning exhibitor crop plots, Cereals 2023 will include a curated version of the wheat and winter barley Recommended List varieties demonstrated by Ceres Rural and expanded to include a wider range of winter barley this year.

All the big names will be demonstrating in the

sold-out Syngenta Sprays and Sprayers Arena and the Drill Area. Other demos include: mechanical weeding presented by Garford, Isuzu demos, and working demo plots from Bednar, Case IH, Hardi and New Holland. There will also be robotics and automation demos from a wide range of new technology companies including AgBot, from Cereals’ Innovation & Technology Sponsor, AgXeed.

Exhibitor bookings are well ahead of previous years, with a 30% year-on-year increase and 115+ new exhibitors in attendance including Weaving Machinery, Dale Drills, RAGT, Hardi, Berthoud and Vogelsang.

The Cereals Mainstage will see a host of seminars covering key topics of the day and will include keynote speakers, panels, debates and quickfire question sessions. Other stages will focus on energy and

biomass, precision farming, and land drainage. The Cereals Stories stage is new for 2023 and will include farmers talking about their journey into farming and how social media has changed their business.

Fifty per cent of the proceeds of Cereals visitor tickets will go to benefit the Multiple System Atrophy Trust (MSAT) and a fundraiser will be held in the afternoon of day one, 13 June in Sarah’s Wood.

For more information about MSAT, please visit Sarah’s Wood – Multiple System Atrophy Trust (msatrust.org.uk)

Cereals gates will open at 8am on both days.

How to find Cereals: cerealsevent.co.uk/visiting-cereals/how-to-find-us

To buy tickets please visit: Cerealsevent.co.uk and click on register today.

Finlay Munro

The Aberdeen-Angus Cattle Society has appointed Highland farmer Finlay Munro as its new president.

Mr Munro, who runs the Balaldie herd at Balaldie Farm, Fearn, Tain, replaces outgoing president Angus Stovold from the Rosemead herd in Surrey. His family has been involved in the Aberdeen-Angus breed since the 1800s and the herd now stands at 120 suckler cows, of which 90 are pedigree registered.

Mr Munro, who has served in the junior and senior vicepresidential roles, said it was an honour to take on the role of president.

“One of my main goals for the year ahead is to keep the breed in the strong position that it finds itself in at the moment,” added Mr Munro.

“The Aberdeen-Angus breed is sitting with the highest number of registrations of all breeds on BCMS and I hope to help sustain that.”

Jonny Oosthuizen

ADAMA Agricultural Solutions UK Ltd. has appointed Jonny Oosthuizen as the company’s new Product Manager for its range of plant growth regulators, molluscicides and oilseed rape herbicides.

Jonny, who joined ADAMA in July 2021 as the company’s Regional Agronomy Manager for the South of England, will be responsible for developing ADAMA’s PGR, molluscicide and OSR herbicide marketing and delivery strategies alongside Melanie Wardle (cereal fungicides and insecticides) and David Roberts (cereal herbicides and sugar beet herbicides). As a member of the company’s marketing and technical team Jonny will also work closely with technical specialists Andy Bailey (fungicides and molluscicides) and Bill Lankford (herbicides, insecticides and plant growth regulators) to implement ADAMA’s technical knowledge campaigns.

Commenting on Jonny’s new appointment, ADAMA’s Marketing and Technical Director, Stephen Beal said: “Our expanding range of crop protection products is the foundation on which our business is based, but they are nothing without the people who are responsible for marketing them to our customers.”

Mark Smith

Tallis Amos Group (TAG) has confirmed the recruitment of Mark Smith as Agricultural Sales Director (East). Mark had previously spent 27 years working for John Deere Ltd. at Langar, latterly as Strategic Account Manager for UK & Ireland.

The announcement follows recent news from TAG regarding significant expansion into Shropshire after the decision by Rea Valley Tractors (RVT) to resign the John Deere franchise. TAGs new 40,000 sq ft depot at Allscott nr Telford is due to fully open in March 2023.

TAG was formed in 2012 when two long standing John Deere dealerships, Alexander & Duncan and Chris Tallis Farm Machinery, joined forces. The company traces its roots back to 1912 and has been supporting farming businesses in the West Midlands for over 100 years, with 56 years as John Deere agents.

Tim Farrow

Stocks Ag has promoted Tim Farrow to the recently created position of Technical Director. In his new capacity Tim will be leading research and development, as well as heading up technical support for customers, dealers and OEMs.

Since joining Stocks Ag at the end of 2020, as UK Field Sales Manager, Tim has become increasingly involved in product development at Stocks.

Tim has worked in agriculture for more than 30 years and, prior to joining Stocks, he was the Service then Branch Manager for another machinery dealer. His new position at Stocks will see him setting up the technical support department, as well as taking charge of research and development.

James Woolway, MD at Stocks commented, “It was clear from before I took ownership of Stocks Ag that research and proactive product development needed investment and time. Having experience in aftersales and being technically minded, has put Tim in a strong position to lead this exciting development in the business.”

“I am looking forward to the challenges ahead,” said Tim.

Sheena Foster

NFU Scotland’s Forth and Clyde Region has appointed Sheena Foster as its new Regional Manager. Sheena is well-known within the region, having been brought up on a local farm at Strathaven, South Lanarkshire as well as a very active young farmer and a keen supporter of local shows. Before joining NFUS, Sheena had been a national manager for the Scottish Association of Young Farmers Clubs (SAYFC) for the last five years. As a young farmer, Sheena was chair and secretary of both East Kilbride Young Farmers and Lanarkshire District, before going on to chair West Area region. Sheena is also secretary of East Kilbride Show Society. Looking at her new position within NFU Scotland, Sheena said: “Through my role at SAYFC, I have gained valuable experience co-ordinating and recruiting as well as organising and promoting events and I hope to use these skills to assist NFU Scotland members in the region.”

Tom Godwin

Tom Godwin has been appointed agri sales manager at Continental. From a farming background and with extensive experience of farm tyres, Mr Godwin will hit the ground running, working with dealers and manufacturers throughout the UK and Ireland. His appointment has been welcomed by general sales manager for commercial speciality tyres, Rebecca Shedden, who said:

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

“Tom has a wealth of experience with agricultural tyres that will help Continental, our dealers, and customers. He is joining a dedicated team that has launched seven new lines of tractor, combine and telehandler tyres in the last five years. We are all excited to have him on board.”

Mr Godwin recognises the challenge of the new role, but also sees extensive opportunities. Commenting on his new role, he said: “I am excited to be working with Rebecca and the Continental team.”

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

Gordon Logan

Investment in experienced sales personnel continues at KUHN Farm Machinery, following the recruitment of Gordon Logan to the company’s regionally deployed sales team.

Gordon specialises in bedding and feeding equipment, as well as KUHN’s range of hedge cutters, and will manage the north of England and Scotland.

This appointment maintains KUHN’s expanded product sales support function that has now been in existence for over a decade and complements the ongoing investment that the company is making in technical personnel.

“We’re continually building on our commitment to deliver the very best sales support to our dealers and customers,” explains Siân Pritchard, Managing Director of KUHN UK. “Our investment in people mirrors our success in increasing sales and growing market share in priority product areas.

“Having skilled and dedicated people on the ground is an important part of building strong relationships with our dealer network and is becoming an important differentiator for the business.”

Holly Fitzsimmons

Holly Fitzsimmons has joined the NFU Scotland team, taking over the role of Regional Manager for Ayrshire.

Holly is well-known within the region, having been brought up on a local farm and has been working as an area sales manager within the animal health and agricultural supply sector since graduating with a BSc (Hons) in Applied Animal Science.

Looking at her new role within NFU Scotland, Holly said: “Having been brought up on a working Ayrshire dairy, beef and sheep farm, I have gained valuable hands on experience and an understanding of the social and economic issues facing farmers in Ayrshire.

“My previous roles within the region have developed my understanding of how changes within the industry have an impact across the supply chain from manufacturing, to the farmer, as I look to help the farmers of Ayrshire navigate some of the big challenges and opportunities they face in the years ahead.”

Scott Davies

The award-winning farm carbon calculator, Agrecalc, has appointed its first chief executive in a major step towards becoming a spin-out company. Operated by SAC Consulting, part of Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC), Agrecalc has recruited Scott Davies, who has a strong track record in developing and growing successful technologybased businesses.

Formerly co-founder and director of a mobile gaming company and most recently CEO of Never.no, Scott’s remit is to lead Agrecalc into the next phase of development and growth.

He said: “I’m extremely proud and excited to be chosen as the new CEO of Agrecalc. To be part of this incredible team, as well as a business offering a world-leading product for carbon management, is a real privilege and I look forward to being part of the continuing success story.”

Following the spin out, planned for early spring, the company’s focus will be on seeking investment, while planning to be a central part of the solutions to greenhouse gas emissions related to global food production.

Julia Andrews

Origin Fertilisers has added to its national team of in-house nutrition agronomists with the appointment of Julia Andrews to cover Scotland and the Borders.

Ms Andrews brings Origin’s team of nutrition agronomists to six covering all corners of the UK providing balanced nutrition advice to farmers. Hailing from New Zealand, Ms Andrews has been involved in farming all her life and studied for a BSc in Agricultural Science at Lincoln University in New Zealand.

Following this, she gained experience working as an arable advisor for one of New Zealand’s largest agricultural distributors and input suppliers, and her extensive knowledge of production systems, both arable and grassland, will offer UK farmers the opportunity to learn about different techniques. Ms Andrews says the many similarities between UK and New Zealand farming will allow her to help farmers become more productive with their fertiliser use.

Catherine Whaley

ADAMA has appointed Catherine Whaley as its new Head of Development in the UK.

As part of ADAMA’s continued programme of product development and registration in the UK, Catherine Whaley has been appointed to the role of Head of Development UK following the promotion of the role’s previous incumbent, Jackie Passey, to ADAMA’s Global Product Development team.

Catherine joins ADAMA from i2L Research where she played a key role in evolving the company into a leading global research organisation for molluscicide research and development and registration, and for creating a recognised European testing capability across the UK, Spain and Czech Republic.

Catherine was also involved in developing i2L into a leading contract research organisation specialising in bio-rational products including bio-insecticides, fungicides, herbicides and molluscicides products.

“We are delighted to welcome Catherine to the UK team,” explains ADAMA UK’s Managing Director, Ben Miles, “and look forward to working with her to develop and implement our ongoing product development strategy.”

Robert Cloughton

Robert Cloughton, is the newly appointed part-time auctioneer at Craven Cattle Marts in Skipton, follows in the illustrious footsteps of both his grandfather and great grandfather, who were themselves auctioneers of great renown in Wensleydale.

Robert, 28, works on the family’s Browna Paddocks Farm near Hawes, which runs Swaledale and Bluefaced Leicester breeding sheep and their North of England Mule progeny, alongside dairy cattle.

“I started farming straight from school, always with an aspiration of having a go at auctioneering,” said Robert.

Both his grandfather, John, and great grandfather, Jimmy Cloughton, were legendary faces on the rostrum at Hawes Auction Mart, each with careers spanning around four decades. Himself a farmer’s son, Jimmy, the main sheep auctioneer, started at Hawes in the early 1930s, John, now 85, in the early 1970s, their tenures overlapping for a brief period. Both, who also farmed, built reputations in their day as being among the best auctioneers in the North of England.

www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

Of Stone and Sky

By Merryn Glover

Of Stone and Sky is a compelling new novel set in the beautiful, ever-changing Scottish Highland landscape. Critically-acclaimed author Merryn Glover became the first ever Writer-In-Residence for the Cairngorms National Park in 2019. The narrative traces one Highland family’s story of struggle, loss, and love across three generations. The eldest son, Colvin Munro, follows in his father’s footsteps and labours as a shepherd on a farming estate in the upper reaches of the River Spey. When he suddenly disappears, a mysterious trail of his possessions is found in the Cairngorm mountains. Writing the eulogy for his memorial seven years later, his foundlingsister Mo seeks to discover why he vanished. Younger brother Sorley is also haunted by his absence and driven to reveal the forces that led to Colvin’s disappearance. Is their brother alive or dead?

This is a powerful, layered novel which encapsulates the highs and lows of Highland life. At once mysterious, passionate, political, and profound, Of Stone and Sky brings you into this tight-knit Highland community, and you feel their frustration and confusion as new threats continue to challenge their way of life. Just as the story contains

multitudes of meaning, it is narrated by several different, yet equally sympathetic characters.

Mo, an adopted child who becomes a foster-sister to Colvin and Sorley, shares most of the story with us, commenting on the twists and turns with her clever sense of humour and depth of heart. She is a rather unconventional Church of Scotland minister, who puts community support before institutional religious doctrine, earning her much criticism from the Presbytery Clerk. Youngest brother Sorley, who left home at seventeen and ran as far away from his troubled Highland upbringing as he could, has freshly returned, having lost everything and keeping secrets from his family. Ultimately, this is a story about the connections between people and the land, between ancestors and descendants, as wisdom, suffering, and tradition are passed from generation to generation.

Of Stone and Sky is a stunning work of literary fiction, similar in tone and content to Lewis Grassic Gibbon’s Sunset Song. Merryn’s poetic yet clear writing style evokes an intimate knowledge of the Highlands and a deep respect for intricacies of the farming culture. This novel

doesn’t shy away from the heavier struggles which exist in these communities, such as alcohol abuse, financial strain, infidelity, and mental illness, yet it examines the root causes of these issues with

sensitivity and compassion. This book will stay with you, challenge you, and ask you the key question – how can we face our history, and what choices do we make with all we have learned?

Of Stone and Sky by Merryn Glover, published by Polygon, an imprint of Birlinn, in March 2022 (£8.99, paperback) www.birlinn.co.uk

‘Where do I go to see the stags?’ is one of the questions I am most asked when I’m out and about at Mar Lodge. The problem is that it’s an open question, and one that depends on the time of year, the time of day, the weather and the fitness and patience of the questioner, whether they want to see them or photograph them, whether or not they have binoculars or not, how noisy they are, and how many of them there are.

Anyway, here’s the answer. Autumn is the best time of year to see red deer. After a summer of feeding up, this is when they are looking at their best, their russet

Stag nights

In the second of our exclusive extracts from his acclaimed book ‘Regeneration’, Andrew Painting argues that fewer, better deer boosts both the sporting experience – and the estate

autumn coats thick and glossy, their antlers sharp and de-furred. Hinds are tending calves, but coming into heat, sending the stags into a frenzy of activity. Come on a fine crisp day, wait until late afternoon, and drive along the road from Braemar to the Linn of Dee. You’ll hear the uncanny roaring of stags rattling around the glen. There’ll probably be a rut underway on the Quoich Flats. If not, you’ll see them coming out of the shelter of the woods around Inverey, heading to the open fields that flank this part of the River Dee, just as the light begins to fade.

If you feel like throwing a little money in the direction of

the National Trust for Scotland, you can join the popular stag rutwatching events, which run in October. This is the responsible way to enjoy the spectacle of red deer; you can be assured that you won’t be disturbing them, but you’ll get good views and hopefully learn a lot too. If you want to throw the trust significantly more money, you can sign up not just to see a stag, but also to shoot one.

Another place to see stags is the Stag Ballroom. There are 2,435 of them there.

It’s a curious building, constructed in 1898 to accommodate the ghillies’ balls, which are still held, once a year,

after the Braemar Gathering. Grand ceilidhs would be thrown for the estate staff, watched over by Queen Victoria and other notables of the Balmorality on the royal viewing area, and all those hundreds of stag skulls. The Stag Ballroom is a particularly potent expression of cultural hegemony, of the oppression of both land and people for the benefit and the sport of the very few. Highland stalking was a statement of political will; this is our land, the ballroom says, these stags are the fruits of its fecundity, brought to rightful dominion by our skilled hands, and we are generous enough to bestow on you a place in which to dance. The Stag Ballroom is a grisly theatre of pomp and power, a statement of oppression over people and the environment, and an elitist expression of the Natural Way of Things.

But that was then, and this is now. In 2016, according to the sporting industry’s own figures, the total direct expenditure on deer stalking in Scotland was £49 million per year, and the entire sector directly supported 840 fulltime-equivalent jobs. These figures are extraordinarily low considering that a huge area of Scotland’s uplands are devoted primarily to the production of red deer for stalking. High deer densities maintained by many stalking estates also take their toll on the public purse through subsidies to fencing, damage to agriculture and forestry, and road accidents. In 2016, Scottish Natural Heritage reported that ‘evidence gathered

Stags in the birchwood

to date suggests that management of deer in Scotland results in a net monetary loss for both the private and public sectors’. Such low economic performance might be acceptable, were there a strong ecological case for maintaining deer numbers at such historically high figures. But there isn’t. An overabundance of deer may be desirable for deer stalking, and indeed drives up the value of sporting land, but it leads to environmental destruction.

Mar Lodge provides an intriguing potential model for Highland stalking. It is argued by those in favour of retaining the status quo that reducing Scotland’s deer herd will inflict economic harm to sensitive rural economies. The Mar Lodge story suggests that this might not always be the case: the number of stalkers on the estate has remained broadly the same as in the commercial sporting days. Highland sport on the estate pays for five full-time gamekeepers, plus a couple of ghillies in the stalking season. It brings in enough to pay for itself, plus all of the woodland restoration work that the stalkers keep themselves (extremely) busy with. But Mar Lodge is a diverse estate – gamekeepers account for around a quarter of the estate’s staff and generate around a quarter of the estate’s income. Shooters often argue that environmentalists hate deer. Again, the Mar Lodge story suggests otherwise: there are over 1,500 red deer on the estate, more than enough to ensure the long-term health of the herd, and also enough to link up deer populations across the Cairngorms and Grampians.

It is true that the population density of red deer on the moorland zone at Mar Lodge is far lower than on other sporting estates, but it is still more than enough to ensure that stag stalking is at capacity and is fully booked a year in advance. In fact, the comparatively low deer density found in the sporting zone at Mar Lodge (8-10 deer per square kilometre rather

than the 15-25 deer per square kilometre more commonly found on deer forests) is not reducing ecological damage caused by an overabundance of deer but is also improving the quality of the deer themselves. A 2019 study looking at the body weight and fecundity of over 36,000 deer harvested from nine estates, including Mar Lodge, over a 35-year period showed that the weight and fecundity of deer increased when deer numbers were reduced. Fewer deer means better quality and more fertile deer.

This, in turn, drives up the quality of the hunting itself. Stalkers and their guests are required to put in more effort for their prize, which makes it all the sweeter. While the sporting cull focuses on the older, infirm stags, better food availability (with fewer deer there is more vegetation to go around) drives up the overall quality of the stags, meaning that those who want a trophy for their walls are more likely to have a larger one. It also brings significant

ecological benefits to the estate’s moors, bogs and woodlands.

Deer stalking at Mar Lodge is still done in the traditional Highland way – a skilled stalker takes a guest up onto the hills and bogs, a single rifle is used, and deer are killed with a single shot. The Mar Lodge tweeds are still proudly worn, local whisky is still toasted at the end of the day. People come

from across the world to perform Highland sport and try something a little different to what they can experience on their own beat.

But the really revolutionary change to deer management at Mar Lodge is that, for the first time in its thousand-year history, sporting success is measured in benefits for the nation, rather than benefits for the landowner.

Stalker with pony

Ballroom landscape