AgriScot Preview

Welcome to this Farming Scotland AgriScot preview

AgriScot will take place on 9th February 2022 at the Royal Highland Centre Ingliston. It feels great to write that!

By Robert Neill, AgriScot Chairman

Robert Neill, AgriScot Chairman

We have not been able to hold a live, in-person AgriScot since November 2019 and all the feedback I receive suggests it sure has been missed in the farming calendar.

I could focus here on the importance of AgriScot as a business event, packed with over 240 tradestands and a full programme of seminars and workshops – something for every farming sector. However, I can’t help but also think about the importance of events like AgriScot as a focal point for social interaction, AgriScot provides “business”, “networking”, and “continuous professional development” opportunities but we’re keenly aware that discussions with friends, neighbours, contacts, acquaintances and like-minded individuals have been sorely missed over the past 26 months. In short, I believe that even a business orientated event like AgriScot can be good for mental health and well-being if it allows time off from the farm, time to catch up and especially if it also provides inspiration and motivation to take away and move forward positively.

Anyone with any involvement in farm shows or events will appreciate that they cannot get off the ground without the backing of sponsors, tradestands and business supporters. AgriScot relies on these organisations even more so because we do not charge admission to our visitors. I am humbled by the support shown for our efforts to ensure that AgriScot will go ahead in February. We started 2021 with a determination to hold AgriScot, but a huge uncertainty as to how it would look. Our sponsors and trade stand businesses have stuck with us throughout – including when we were forced to make the difficult decision to postpone from our original November date. We really are so, so grateful for all the support received.

All that remains for me to say now is Happy New Year – I wish you and yours a safe, healthy and prosperous 2022 – and I very much look forward to welcoming you to AgriScot on 9th February.

All Best Wishes. Robert Neill, AgriScot Chairman

AgriScot set for 9th February

AgriScot will be back on the calendar of live, in-person, farming events – albeit on a new date – when the farm business event fills the Highland Centre at Ingliston on 9th February.

The live event, which has had a Covid enforced absence for over 2 years, looks set to be as packed as ever with widespread appeal to professionals from all farming sectors

In this special AgriScot preview edition of Farming Scotland Magazine, we take a look at what visitors can expect from AgriScot 2019:

TRADESTANDS The forthcoming AgriScot will feature over 240 trade stands and a machinery hall packed with the latest information, innovation and advice to help today’s farmers get the most from their business.

BUSINESS SEMINARS The free to attend business seminars at AgriScot are always a major attraction year after year. On 9th February there will be packed programme including political insight, arable and cover cropping advice, forestry options and the ever popular Scottish DairyHub panel session.

WORKSHOPS AND DEMONSTRATIONS A main ring demonstration of beef cattle management techniques and workshops with appeal to all farming sectors will take place throughout the day.

SHOWCASING BEST PRACTICE AgriScot seeks to demonstrate, showcase and reward best practice. Part of this aim is delivered by the Farm of the Year Awards. Awards are made annually to nominated farms, judged by the assessors to be the best, arable, beef, dairy and sheep units in Scotland. New this time will be an award for the best Diversified Farm. DEVELOPING THE NEXT GENERATION The AgriScot Business Skills competition encourages young farmers, students and other young agricultural professionals to demonstrate and further develop their farm business management skills. The final of the competition takes place on the day of AgriScot with the winner presented with a cheque for £1000 courtesy of sponsors, NFU Mutual.

SHOWCASING INNOVATION To further the AgriScot aim of showcasing new and innovative products, services and thinking, each year the AgriScot Product Innovation Award is presented. The award is open to all AgriScot trade stand exhibitors and is judged by a panel of expert judges on the day prior to AgriScot, enabling award certificates to be proudly displayed to visitors on the big day.

NEW PRODUCT LAUNCHES AgriScot is the number one winter business event for new product launches. The event has regularly hosted the UK public debut of machines from major manufacturers such as John Deere.

TOP CATTLE ON PARADE Top dairy cattle from throughout the British Isles make an annual pilgrimage to AgriScot to compete for the prestigious Super Cow and Super Heifer titles and take a share of the £25k prize fund.

INDOOR COMFORT AgriScot utilises every available square metre of the huge exhibition hall complex at the Royal Highland Centre. With the whole event undercover, it can cope with the worst of Scottish Februrary weather.

AgriScot last took place as a live event in 2019, this is some of the feedback

“AgriScot is the whole industry concentrated under one roof for one day. As far as I can see, every stand is absolutely chock-a-block!” Stuart Martin, NFUS Scottish Dairy Hub

“We find a lot of farmers come here for the day, it’s well worth our time, we do a lot of trade here.” Michael Bayne, Borders Machinery Ring

“I come to AgriScot every year as part of an organised trip. Today is very good, AgriScot is always a good event – the best in the UK and its free to get in!” Wallace Paton, County Down, NI

“We come to AgriScot every year to show cattle. We have sold bulls, embryos, heifers to people who have seen our stock at AgriScot or made the effort to visit the farm after the event. This is our shop window, that’s why we come here! But even if you’re not interested in dairy cows, the event here is geared up for everybody.” Alasdair Laird, Blyth Bridge, Peeblesshire

“I come to AgriScot to look at new technology, share best practice and ideas.” Peter Eccles, Farm Manager, Midlothian

AgriScot on social media Twitter reaction

Agri-EPI Centre @agri_epi Thanks for having us @AgriScot ! What a great day. Ian MacDougall @OverBlainslie Congratulations to the whole team @AgriScot , one of the best days away from home in the farming year…..and it’s free! Sion Williams @sionwilliams66 Well done @uppernisbet and his team for an excellent day. ForFarmersUK @ForFarmersUK We hope the @AgriScot team are celebrating as it’s been a hugely successful show! Thank you for having us. We will definitely see you next year. Graeme Davidson @GdavidsonEQ Congratulations to the @AgriScot team for another first-class event yesterday. A terrific atmosphere throughout and lots of interesting conversations, including at the @EQAccountants / @Xero / @ figuredapp seminar. Looking forward to next year! Bell Rural Solutions @BellRural Great day yesterday attending NFU Scotland’s seminar at AgriScot discussing the current priorities for Scottish Farming. Galloway & MacLeod @gallowaymacleod Another great year at @AgriScot ! Thanks to everyone who came on stand and we hope you had a fantastic day. WOPA UK @WopaUKCathy Heading home to Norfolk. AgriScot is still one of my favourite shows of the season. Thank you to all who came and said hello! See you all next year! Phileo Uk & Ireland @PhileoUK_ROI Thank you @AgriScot for putting on another excellent event Farming & Water Scot @FarmWaterScot Thanks for joining us @AgriScot is always a busy day, but one we look forward to each year. Provimi Ruminant @ProvimiRuminant We had a fantastic day @AgriScot yesterday, we hope you did too!

AgriScot is very active on both Twitter and Facebook. Look out for increasing activity as the 9th February event approaches, and on the day of AgriScot.

Twitter is an especially useful platform for AgriScot visitors and exhibitors to interact and exchange information.

Please follow @AgriScot and use #AgriScot to share your views, find out more about exhibitors’ products and services, discuss seminar topics and interact with other AgriScot visitors.

Register now for FASTRAC entry

AgriScot will take place at the Royal Highland Centre, Edinburgh on 9th February, but visitors are encouraged to register their attendance much earlier than that, in order to beat the potential entry queues on the day.

Fastrac online registration, sponsored by Scot Agri, is open now.

Martin Dare, who organises the event on behalf of the farmer led AgriScot board, stated:

“Thanks to the support of our sponsors and trade exhibitors we do not charge visitors for entry to AgriScot, but simply ask that they register online in advance.”

“Whilst we will have registration desks available on the day at all entrances, we would strongly recommend that, in order to avoid having to queue, visitors take advantage of our Scot Agri sponsored online Fastrac registration at the AgriScot website www.agriscot. co.uk”

Ian joins AgriScot and 5-year RHC deal is signed

Ian Brydson (pictured) Territory Sales Manager in Scotland for machinery manufacturer Krone, has recently also been appointed as a Director of AgriScot.

Speaking of his appointment, Ian stated:

“I’m delighted to join AgriScot at this exciting time, as we look forward hopefully to once again welcoming thousands of business minded farmers to Ingliston on 9th February.”

“AgriScot is an event for the whole industry and I intend to work closely with the other directors to ensure we build on the events success, showcasing the best of agriculture and addressing the key issues faced today. I also look forward to becoming more involved with the AgriScot awards.”

Ian’s appointment to the board coincided with the signing of a new deal between AgriScot and the RHASS to secure the future of the farm business event at Ingliston for the next 5 years.

Diversification Award Finalists Take New Approach To Farming

A farm which lets visitors take alpacas for a walk and another which uses a converted grain silo as part of a stunning wedding venue are among the finalists in a new diversification award.

In partnership with the Royal Bank of Scotland, and supported by SAC Consulting (part of Scotland’s Rural College), the Inaugural AgriScot Diversified Farm of the Year Award celebrates the achievements of Scottish farming and crofting businesses which have diversified and added value to their primary agricultural activities.

After receiving high-quality entries from all over the country, the three finalists are from Angus, Orkney and West Lothian, with the recipient of the award to be announced at AgriScot in February.

The finalists are:

Bain Farm, Orkney Bain is a dairy farm run by Lara Hourie and her family on Orkney. The business, which operates under the brand The Orkney Dairy, has added value to their milk by producing natural yoghurt, flavoured yoghurts, milk, and flavoured milkshakes.

Through the support of LEADER funding and Orkney Islands Council in 2017, Lara and her family installed a purpose-built facility in a converted farm workshop. Since then, the business has gone from strength to strength.

Cairns Farm, West Lothian Caroline and Graham Hamilton are fourth-generation hill sheep farmers. With a family succession on the horizon and a desire to create a viable business future for the next generation, they made a significant investment in a wedding venue and selfcatering offer at Cairns Farm. Incorporating original farming features – including a converted grain silo as a grand entrance – into the design of their venue, they have created something unique and of its place which connects their guests to their land and farming heritage.

Newton Farm Louise and Graeme Nicoll run a mixed tenanted family farm of 550 acres in Angus. Out of a series of challenges in 2016 was born the farm tour concept of bringing visitors on to their farm. There is a range of tour activities available, including the chance to walk alpacas and even feed a Highland Cow. They also have a key focus on engaging visitors with whatever is happening that day on the farm.

Sascha Grierson from SAC Consulting said: “Diversification and agritourism are becoming ever more important in Scottish agriculture and it’s terrific to see such great innovation all over the country. The three finalists of this award are excellent ambassadors of the sector and should all be proud of their achievements so far.”

Roddy McLean, Director of Agriculture at the Royal Bank of Scotland, said: “We were delighted with the number of entries and their quality. It was inspiring to see how resources on the farm, alongside interests or skills within each family, have been harnessed to deliver a diverse range of enterprises which are running alongside or as an integral part to the core farm business.

“This made the assessing very challenging but really fascinating. There can only be one overall award recipient, but I think that each of the entries is a winner in what it is delivering for that individual business and family. I’d like to thank everyone who entered and wish them and their business continued success for the future.”

Ian Brydson, AgriScot Board member and one of the assessors, said: “The standard of applicants has been very high and made the assessment process a real challenge. Each finalist has diversified to an extremely high standard and been totally committed to what they are trying to achieve. It has been inspiring to meet people prepared to break with what they have always done and try adding something new in order to take their farming operations to the next level.”

The Award will be announced at AgriScot on 9 February 2022.

£5000 of silage prizes

The AgriScot Silage Competition makes a welcome return in February, although the entries may feel a little chilly!

The competition is organised by Andrew Best from sponsors, Watson Seeds. Andrew commented:

“We were delighted with the response to the AgriScot Silage Competition in 2020, which by necessity had to utilise video and virtual technologies for the final assessment. But nothing beats the live atmosphere of AgriScot at Ingliston and we greatly look forward to the final of the competition in the main AgriScot ring on 9th February 2022.”

“It makes great nutritional and economic sense to have your silage analysed in order to assess feed value; especially when entering your analysis report into the AgriScot competition could put you in the competition for a prize fund worth over £5000.”

“The first stage of the competition is assessment of the analysis, and we are delighted that our long-standing judge, Hugh McClymont of SAC Crichton Royal Farm, will carry out this duty.”

“This time around we are having to do things differently, samples of the highest scoring silages were collected in December and have been frozen at the Crichton Royal to be stored in a stable condition until the final live judging and announcement of the winners at AgriScot in February.”

“I hope they don’t feel too chilly to the nose when Hugh does his sniff test!”

Successful silages in the 2020 competition came from all parts of Scotland and beyond, with a total of 89 entries. A silage with analysis 42.6 dry matter, 12.9 metabolisable

energy, 80 digestibility value and 13.1 Protein took the Big Bale first prize for J McDonald, Achvarasdale, Caithness.

The Beef Clamp Silage winner was from R Black Drochil Castle Peeblesshire with an analysis of 30.6DM 12.3ME 77.0D 15P whilst Campbeltown welcomed the Dairy Clamp Silage title to Kilkivan for T Ralston who’s winning first cut entry analysed at 33.4DM 12.4ME 76.9D 16.9P. Second place in this class went outwith Scotland to C. Stalker of Ratten Castle, Cumbria.

In 2020 – and repeated this time – there were also dedicated classes for silage produced by young farmers. S Van der Spruit of Challoch, Wigtownshire took the yf dairy silage honours, whilst A. Neill, Upper Nisbet, Roxburghshire was the yf beef silage winner.

The three finalists, who will now go on to compete against each other at AgriScot on 9th February are: • Emily Mosley; a Harper

Adams graduate, originally from Derbyshire but now working as a Farm

Administrator in Tain. • Ben McSporran; a 3rd year

BSc Agriculture student at SRUC Edinburgh who combines his studies with part time work on farms near his

Peeblesshire home farm. • Stewart Shaw; a partner in his family farming and contracting business in the

Scottish Borders. Stewart is also a keen SAYFC member.

Heather Kerr, a lecturer at SRUC, who co-ordinates the competition on behalf of the AgriScot team commented:

“It is so great to have 3 finalists from different backgrounds this year. We have Ben, a SRUC student, Emily a Harper Adams graduate working in farm administration and Stewart who is a handson farmer and active SAYFC member. We are all delighted by this as we have always sought to encourage entrants from across rural Scotland.”

“The three finalists emerged from stiff competition at the onfarm semi-finals, held courtesy of Tom Sanderson, Biggarshiels Mains, Biggar and Iain Wilson, Tulloch Farms, Laurencekirk. I

Farming finalists emerge in AgriScot competition

Three finalists have emerged from the recent qualifying heats of the AgriScot Business Skills Competition. Five competitors took part in the north regional heat and six in the south. These regional heats were held on a farm, with competitors quizzed by the host farmers and independent judges to assess their practical farming expertise and business knowledge.

know that the host farmers and our independent judges from the Royal Bank of Scotland (Emma Cowie (Larencekirk) and Stuart Hamilton (Biggar) had a very difficult job selecting these finalists.”

AgriScot Chairman, Robert Neill, attended the South semifinal and commented:

“I went along to the semifinal at Biggarshiels really just as an observer. I came away hugely impressed by the quality of competitors. I would personally like to thank everyone who entered and took part in the semi-finals; the future of our industry is in safehands with young people of this calibre”

“Good luck to our finalists for the final stage a AgriScot on 9th February. Also, huge thanks to our sponsors, NFU Mutual and to Heather and her team of host farmers, judges and behind the scenes helpers for all of their hard work and generous support.”

Mark McBrearty, NFU Mutual Regional Manager also wished the finalists well:

“It’s great to see such a high calibre of entries from all corners of the country. NFU Mutual are delighted to be sponsoring this award, recognising inspirational young people coming up within the industry. I wish our finalists good luck and very much look forward to the announcement in February.”

Scottish Dairy Farm of the Year in Full Flow

AgriScot organaisers have unveiled the top 3 entries in the running for the coveted Scottish Dairy Farm of the Year title

The 3 businesses, East Brackenridge in South Lanarkshire, Holehouse Farm in Ayrshire, and Queenscairn in Roxburghshire, each received a visit from the independent assessors along with award convenor Gilmour Lawrie.

Gilmour Lawrie, himself a dairy farmer and also Vice Chairman of the AgriScot board, commented:

“It was fantastic to be able to visit the 3 outstanding dairy operations in the running for the

Andrew Neilson (left) with his father Hugh (far right) and assessors, David McMiken (second from left) and Hugh Watson at East Brackenridge.

2021 Scottish Dairy Farm of the Year title. The AgriScot farm of the year awards were sorely missed last year and we are delighted with the support for the 2021 award.”

“It has been great to have representatives from previous dairy farms of the year, Hugh Watson from Laigh Tarbeg, Cumnock (2018) and David McMiken from Ernespie, Castle Douglas (2019), on board as independent assessors for the 2021 award. I would like to thank the assessors for their time and the host farmers for their hospitality and wish them luck as we look forward to the award presentation at AgriScot in November.”

“Personally, I thought all 3 farms were of a tremendously high standard and the assessors will have a hard job separating them.” • East Brackenridge is home to 350 all-year-round calvers, farmed by Andrew Neilson, his father Hugh and their team. • Holehouse Farms is run by the

Logan family, fifth-generation farmers milking 280 Holstein dairy cows alongside sucklers and a large hill-sheep enterprise. • Queenscairn is an organic dairy farm where Robert

Shanks runs Holstein cows with a Friesian bull with the aim of converting the herd to

Friesian.

The AgriScot Scottish Dairy Farm of the Year award is sponsored by CowAlert – the cow welfare precision monitoring package developed by Edinburgh based IceRobotics – and seeks to recognise farms that are a showcase for the sector. Like the other awards in the AgriScot stable, organisers are keen to stress that they are not looking simply for farms achieving maximum output, rather, assessors look for innovation, sustainability and the shop window appeal of the farms entered.

The Logan family with award assessors David McMiken (second from left) and Hugh Watson (third from left) at Holehouse Farms. L:R Alistair Logan, David McMiken, Hugh Watson, Alex Logan and Tom Logan.

Robert Shanks at Queenscairn near Kelso.

Beef, sheep and arable farm of the years to be crowned at AgriScot

As this edition of Farming Scotland goes to press, asessors were still deliberating over their finalists in the Beef, Sheep and Arable Farm of the Year categories. These 3 awards will be presented, along with the Diversified Farm and Dairy Farm of the Year Awards (above) at AgriScot on 9th February.

And featuring some of this years’ exhibitors…

BDC SYSTEMS

“Be Ready for Harvest 2022” says John Wilson, Area Sales Manager covering Northern England and Scotland for BDC Systems Ltd

Come and talk all things grain handling with the BDC Systems’ team in the Lowland Hall at AgriScot 2022

The weather this harvest was kinder to those farmers north of the border than those further south. Although a repeat of reasonable weather for harvest 2022 cannot be guaranteed and it is important to plan in advance and have everything ready - whatever the weather!

BDC Systems is seeing a definite rise in interest in our grain handling solutions. Due perhaps to farmers looking to invest in equipment that allows them to take back control of the drying, handling and storage of their own crop.

To help farmers make the right investment choices BDC Systems will be showcasing key components of its grain handling solutions on our stand in the Lowland Hall at AgriScot 2022:

Skandia Elevator’s L-Line agricultural and I-Line commercial conveyor range and a 60tph Skandia SE140 elevator. Skandia has a proven record of delivering robust and reliable conveying systems that deliver what customers want.

BDC’s Moisture Monitoring System (MMS) which is helping farmers/grain store operators accurately and automatically check moisture content (mc) of wet grain as it enters storage.

Aeration solutions to help ensure that grain remains in the best condition during storage.

For those looking to invest in a grain drier, the BDC Systems’ team will be happy to discuss the key features of our Svegma continuous flow driers which are designed and engineered for the UK market and deliver: Auto control panel and shut down facility. Low noise and dust levels. Low power requirements. Compact modular design for easy installation and future extension. Unique lateral fixing system maintains a clean grain column. Fan air volume control for ease of drying small seeds. Optional turboclean dust extraction unit.

Efficient variable cooling or run ‘all hot’.

For more information meet BDC Systems Ltd at AgriScot in the Lowland Hall.

B D Supplies

Established in 2000 we are a leading supplier of Animal husbandry and Hoof trimming Equipment.

We can supply anything hoof trimming from a basic knife right through to the hoof trimming chutes which won us Gold in the Royal Highland Technical Innovation Award. We also offer a comprehensive range of animal husbandry equipment.

With expansion into a thriving Biomass Wood Pellet delivery business, becoming fully BSL and Hetas registered and offering both bagged and bulk deliveries into the domestic and commercial market. With the investment into three lorries specifically designed to deliver bulk pellets in their optimum form has definitely been worthwhile for our expanding company.

We took the wood pellets on with the same ethos as the agricultural side of the business - Quality products which we believe in and trust rather than just price.

Agriculture is still a huge part of our business and we are always looking at bringing new products to the UK market and promoting products which we feel have a benefit in the UK farming industry.

We pride ourselves on customer service and to us ‘the customer does come first’.

Once again we look forward to exhibiting at Agriscot meeting customers from both near and far. Biocell Agri are The Yeast Specialists

Our unique strain of live, microencapsulated yeast has full EU approval across the species and is specially formulated for top dressing or TMR inclusion and is designed to help to maximise home produced forages and therefore increase feed intake and improve feed conversion, resulting in better liveweight gains, milk yields, carcass grades and quality. Complementing this is a range of microbiological products to improve forage fermentation, handle the challenges of mycotoxins in feed and manage slurry.

Completing our range is the highly popular Platinum range of mineral drenches which have seen faster finishing and significant improvements in health and fertility in both pedigree and commercial herds and flocks. For more information, contact Alec on 07718 905625

BvL show their commitment to AgriScot

In a show of faith in AgriScot, diet feeder manufacturer BvL has confirmed that not only will it be attending next year’s show on February 9th, but that it has considerably increased its stand area.

“For us, AgriScot is very much an agri-business show that is well attended by key decision makers and has a strong focus on our key dairy and livestock markets,” explains Paul McUrich, BvL’s specialist for Scotland and Northern England. “By doubling our stand space area, this will give us the opportunity to better exhibit our complete range of single, twin and triple auger diet feeders and the advantages they bring.”

BvL is this year celebrating 21 years of sales and service for its range of feeder wagons in the UK. A key element in the company’s success both in the UK, but also over the 41 years since BvL launched the first diet feeder onto the market, is that no two farms are the same.

Therefore it’s important that a wide range of specifications and options are available, so that BvL’s UK dealers and specialists can look at your needs and tailor a machine to meet those requirements.

The BvL V-MIX range of trailed diet feeders covers a wide range of machines, available in single, twin and triple augers variants and in capacity from 3.5m3 up to 46m3. At the heart of all BvL mixers are powerful mixing augers, with Hardox leading edges and adjustable knives. Twin and triple auger versions incorporate mixing wedges for a thorough and consistent mix, while the patented EDS (Exact Dosing System) discharge ensures an even forage discharge.

Available as an option and suitable for retro fitting onto older BvL diet feeders is the V-Connect mixer control. Using the control, the operator can easily monitor both auger speed and total revolutions, in addition to displaying and controlling mixer time.

Greencrop solutions for slurry and dirty water Greencrop offers a range of dirty water and slurry spreading solutions to handle slurry, digestate from AD Plants, dirty water from livestock farms and washing plants.

With new legislation taking effect as soon as 1st January 2022 in Scotland leading towards the banning above ground slurry application in 2025. Slurry spreading will have to change to shallow injectors, trailing shoe or dribble bars.

We can therefore be grateful for supporting grants having been made available in November of this year

Greencrop can supply a full range of all the above equipment, including a great budget range of dribble bars up to 7.5m spreading width, able to mount on existing vacuum tankers from the rear door, without having to weld on any mounting brackets, with the ability to still use the splash plate if needed.

Fitting the tanker mounted dribble bar is very easy. We supply a new galvanized rear door with mounting brackets welded to it. Fit your existing gate vale to this door. Forklift lifting points mounted on the machine, allowing the DB to fit to the rear door, which can be bolted on at the correct height.

The machines are very close coupled to the tanker, retaining good weight distribution. All dribble bars from 7m wide upwards are fitted with boom brake back as standard.

The units are fitted with an easy access single vertical macerator which is selfsharpening and reversable. 50mm outlets and pipes (so less blockage) at 250mm spacings.

Our dribble bars range from 6m to 14m with single macerator on tanker models. Twin macerators are fitted on umbilical machines from 9m up to 15m. Greencrop dribble bars can be specified to mount onto a tanker which can be removed and used as an umbilical machine.

Our trailing shoe applicators range from 6m to 12m, tanker mounted or umbilical mounted. Shallow injectors machines range from 3m up to 6m.

Hi-Spec at AgriScot

Centre stage on the Hi-Spec Engineering stand at AgriScot will be the unique Hi-Spec XCEL 1250 manure spreader, which uses a rotary chain and flail system to achieve a good break up of material, which is then spread using a pair of spinning discs.

The shredding rotor carries 22 heavy duty chains, which in turn carry 12mm Hardox flail heads, mounted under a 4mm Hardox hood, that shred all the material to an even consistency and ensure no lumps are deposited onto the spreading rotors. An adjustment plate on the shredding rotor hood, evenly places the manure onto the spreading discs to ensure an even spread.

The Xcel 1250 has a capacity of 12 tonnes and can evenly spread material up to 24m. Typical discharge time is 3-5 minutes and it is able to spread all types of material.

The material to be spread is moved rearward by a single slat marine grade floor chain. Individual floor chain tensioners are placed to the front of the machine and drive to the floor chain is via a hydraulic motor with overload protection and variable speed adjustment.

A hydraulically operated, vertical slurry door can be used to regulate flow of material to the shredding rotor, and at the spreading discs an option of lighter vanes can be specified for low density material, such as chicken compost.

The standard specification includes 580/70-R38 radial tyres for low rolling resistance and low compaction, and a commercial axle fitted with hydraulic brakes. Honda’s UTV Pioneer 520 combines the benefits of side by sides and ATVs, marrying up safety and space found in side-bysides with the nimble handling and a small, narrow footprint.

In 2015 Honda America launched the Pioneer 500, promising a true all-rounder that was as versatile as it was compact. A powerful workhorse, engineers behind the two-seater designed it to stand-up to tough off-roading and a wide variety of testing work environments where Honda’s legendary reputation for durability, quality, and reliability is demanded.

The key to the Pioneer’s enduring flexibility and all-round ability has always been its layout. The 520 takes this to the next level with the introduction of a gasassisted tilting rear bed. Measuring in at useful 29 inches in length, 38.7 inches in width and 9.8 inches high, the ample dimensions can swallow a multitude of items from multiple standard hay bales to buckets, crates and more. The ridged base design, three bed divider slots for ¾” partitions and five D-ring locations ensure the load stays secure regardless of the terrain.

Aiding this load carrying versatility is a tailgate that folds flush with the bed floor when open and integrates four cup-holders, giving the operator somewhere to sit on a work break, or at the end of a hard days work.

Such useability has not come at the expense of durability, with the bed designed to carry loads of up to 204kg. The one-piece plastic item is hard wearing and features integrated taillights for a more modern look. The monocoque shape and design of the rear bed weighs less than traditional steel items, aiding the 520’s handling for those seeking recreational fun.

This highly capable load lugging capacity is boosted further through an ample towing capacity. Capable of towing 454kg, the Pioneer 520’s overall load capacity of 658kg makes it a very useful tool for agricultural and commercial applications.

Join the KRONE UK team at this year’s AgriScot

We’re excited to present to you the world’s fastest single-arm wrapper, the EasyWrap 150. This mounted wrapper ensures operator comfort with automated functions for easy bale control and simple changes from transport to working positions. The EasyWrap 150 ensures effective bale rotation thanks to its two massive rollers, and is comfortable in wrapping bales up to 1,600kg.

Our recently upgraded high capacity belt balers, the VariPack and VariPack Plus, offer variable bale chambers from 0.8m bales to 1.9m bales. The VariPack bale chamber uses three endless belts to ensure machine reliance from belt slips, and consistently well shaped, uniform bales.

Featuring a 25% wider crop flow and upgrades to the hydraulic system and the cab to match that of the KRONE BiG X wide body Forage Harvesters, the BiG X 530 meets the operators demands for performance and output. The BiG X 530 features tried and tested KRONE technology such as the VariStream system to ensure consistently smooth crop flows and the MaxFlow chopping drum specifically designed to condition high-quality silage.

KRONE machines on display at AgriScot: EasyWrapper 150, VariPack Round Baler, BiG X 530 Forage Harvester, MX Forage Wagon, plus a selection of EasyCut Mowers, Vendro Tedders and Swadro Rakes.

Kubota’s M6002 to shine at AgriScot 2022

Kubota (UK) Ltd has revealed its tractor and machinery line-up for the 2022 AgriScot event. Tractor highlights include the all-new 122-162hp M6002 series, the recently updated flagship M7003 models from 130-170hp, plus the latest generation EU Stage V compliant M5002 tractors and RTV-X1110 utility vehicle.

Kubota’s newest tractor series, the M6002, boasts an impressive seven tonne rear lift capacity from its Cat III linkage, while manoeuvrability comes from the use of a portal front axle with bevel gear drive. This Bi-speed turn technology gives the M6002 an ultra-tight 4.5m turning circle.

M6002 models use an eight-speed powershift gearbox with three robotised ranges. Sophistication includes autoshifting and speed matching, and a sensitivity dial to tweak gear change response. With a 40kph Eco transmission, the maximum road speed is achieved at just 1,640rpm.

Xpress Restart provides a brake-to-neutral function that saves stepping on the clutch pedal, with operator comfort provided by the same cab frame found on the larger M7003 models. The cab includes a wide sunroof, assisting those who choose the MX-built Kubota loader option.

Those seeking more power and capability can choose from three M7003 models. Here, the M7-133, M7-153 and M7-173 boast 130hp, 150hp and 170hp respectively from a 6.1-litre fourcylinder engine. A 20hp boost is available on the two lower powered models, with a 5hp boost for the flagship M7173.

Transmission options continue to include the stepless KVT and a powershift gearbox that uses six powershift speeds in five synchronised ranges. The powershift transmission now benefits from additional functionality, with Xpress restart.

All models can now be equipped with Multispeed steering control. This new development allows the operator to select the steering ratio to suit working speed and application, offering greater comfort and convenience with headland turns, for example. In addition to the standard steering ratio of four turns lock-to-lock, the operator can choose from a 20%, 40% or 60% reduction in the number of turns required.

Livestock machinery innovation from Kuhn

KUHN will have its round bale film binding technology and its dust control system for the Primor straw bedding machines on show at AgriScot.

Visitors will be able to see KUHN’s patented film binding system on the i-Bio compact baler-wrapper combination. Also available on FBP and VBP combinations, the system eliminates the need for netting to be placed around the cylindrical side of the bale, instead using a layer of standard wrapping film to fulfil the same function.

Unlike other film binding systems which use wide mantle film for binding, the KUHN system uses two standard 750 mm stretch film rolls to fully encapsulate the bale. As well as improving silage preservation and making the recycling of plastic easier, it also reduces plastic usage by up to 30% by pre-stretching the wrapping film by 70% prior to application. Film loading is also easier as each roll weighs just 27 kg, compared to the wider rolls which weigh between 40-90 kg.”

Cleanstraw

KUHN will also be exhibiting its Cleanstraw system, available on new Primor straw bedders or as a retrofit upgrade for existing machines. This facility reduces dust in buildings by applying a fine mist of water to straw as it is distributed. It comprises a 64-litre water tank and three misting nozzles mounted at the exit of the straw blowing chute. The nozzles are fed by a pump which provides water at a flow rate to apply 1 litre of water per 100kg of straw, without slowing the machine’s performance.

Applying a mist of water in this way eliminates excessive levels of dust by reducing the time that these particles remain suspended in the air. Trials have shown that the air in a typical livestock building will be dust-free within 30 seconds after straw-blowing with the Cleanstraw system has ceased, compared to several minutes without the Cleanstraw facility. Feeding and bedding takes centre stage with Kverneland

Kverneland is using AgriScot to promote its latest shredder-bedder models and the innovative Siloking vertical auger feeder range.

With more emphasis on straw shredding performance, the Kverneland 863 Pro model features improved crop flow and more adjustment from the cab, to deliver better processing of straw and greater blowing performance with up to 28m of throw.

The 863 joins a range of bale shredder/bedders that includes mounted and trailed models, with a variety of body sizes from two to six cubic metres capacity. The 863 Pro uses a smaller diameter beater, creating a more open design to handle larger volumes of straw. And combined with hydraulic comb adjustment, affords greater regulation of material flow through the machine.

“It’s now possible to hold the bale off the rotor, to slow the intake when shredding large, dense bales,” explains Kverneland feeding specialist Dan Crowe. “And opting for hydraulic regulation means faster response and smoother operation. And there’s less chance of blocking this machine when handling poor quality straw.”

Choice and advice is a feature of the Kverneland Siloking feeder range, which includes single and twin auger trailed models, and a range of self-propelled models. And throughout the range, there are more options available, plus greater support for dairy customers to ensure expert advice is readily available.

“We’ve taken a partnered approach to help our dairy customers find the best solutions to improve their businesses, and to get the very best out of their investment in Kverneland machines,” he says. “That support extends from the smallest bale shredder to the largest self-propelled diet feeder.”

“There is tremendous variety in the livestock and dairy sectors,” he says. “With a range of Kverneland machines that start with forage production - mowing, tedding, raking – and finish with feeding and bedding, there is always an opportunity to make a real difference with our customers.”

Intensive Farming Operation Requires High Output Machinery from Major

Home Farm Nacton in Suffolk uses the 5.6m Major Cyclone to enhance overall field performance and maintain soil health for its intensive cropping operation.

“We are custodians of this valuable farming land and it’s incumbent on us to ensure we maintain the health, the productivity and the environmental status of the soil,” says Andrew Williams, farm manager at Home Farm Nacton Ltd near Ipswich in Suffolk.

Maintaining soil health ensures the land remains productive throughout the year. “We grow lots of cover crops,” Andrew explains. “We sometimes use sheep to graze after harvesting field produce and regularly mow grass, clover and stubbles to recycle valuable green manures.”

Recycling crop residue and green manure requires intensive mowing practices. The farm relied on flail mowers for stubble management but the machines required high fuel consumption and maintenance costs. The flails were also unreliable and delivered a poor finish.

“We took a look at the Major Cyclone and were really impressed with the build quality and the low power requirement,” enthuses Andrew. “The direct drive transmission meant doing away with belts.”

The 5.6m Major Cyclone comes with eight rotors and 34 blades, ensuring all material is pulverised and spread evenly across the length of the machine. The wings of the mower can fold up to a transport width of 2 metres. Constructed of high-performance Strenx™ 700 MC structural steel and fully galvanised, the mower is built for endurance, strength and longevity.

“We are getting much higher output from the Major Cyclone,” added Andrew. “It covers twice the area compared to the flail in the same about of time, enhancing our overall field performance while saving at least twenty-five percent (25%) on fuel consumption.”

“It’s turned out to be a highly usable piece of machinery that helps us to maintain our goal of farming to the highest professional standard,” Andrew concludes.

McCormick Tractors

McCormick is a brand of Argo Tractors, a family owned company based in Northern Italy. Manufacturing tractors in five plants, McCormick have invested heavily in production, R&D and technology meaning that the modern McCormick tractor is at the cutting edge of tractor design and performance. With a production capacity of up to 22,000 tractors a year, we manufacture 65% of components internally, with the rest being sourced from proven quality suppliers.

With a range that spans 35310hp, we have a machine that suits every farming application, from simple straightforward tractors for livestock operations through to high horsepower tractors packed with the latest guidance and ISOBUS technology

We offer a wide range of transmission options, with all our transmissions below 150hp built and designed inhouse including our award winning VT continuously variable transmission. We use Kohler and FPT engines, for both performance and reliability.

Our global parts master warehouse in San Martino Italy, works 24/7 providing original parts support for all our tractors. Delivering to more than 100 countries worldwide, with the

highest levels of availability we ensure that we can support our tractors in the field. Coupled with proactive maintenance and servicing from our dealers, we aim to maximise the uptime of our tractors on farm, night or day.

With 5.5% of turnover being invested in Product Development, McCormick tractors are at the cutting edge of performance, design and technology. Considerable investment has been made in people, with over 60% of Argo Tractors UK staff being field based to work supporting dealers and customers. Our dealer network has expanded considerably to provide local coverage from dealers focussed on local support and outstanding service.

For full details on our product range please visit www. McCormick.it/en.

For the very latest follow us on Facebook @McCormick Tractors UK & Ireland McHale will be displaying a wide range of machinery on our stand at this year’s AgriScot show taking place on February 9th. McHale will be showcasing their latest products by displaying the new McHale Fusion 3 Pro and the new McHale V8950 Variable Chamber Baler.

The McHale Fusion range of integrated baler wrappers are recognised worldwide for their unique patented bale transfer, vertical wrapping ring and high output. The McHale Fusion 3 Pro provides new levels of operator comfort with its large touch screen monitor, in-cab net and density adjustment, inbuilt camera, and faster wrapping speeds along with a host of other features. The McHale Fusion 3 Pro and 3 Plus are now available with ISOBUS as an optional extra.

The new McHale range of variable chamber balers will also be on the display. This range is comprised of the McHale V8950 15 knife chopper baler and the McHale V8940 non-chopper baler. Both machines feature a brandnew look with panels opening upwards to allow for greater access to the machine. Fitted with 3 belts as standard, the McHale range of V8 balers can produce a bale from 0.6m (2’) to 1.9m (6’3”).

Electric Merlo handler to debut at Agriscot 2022

Making its Scottish debut at Agriscot is the all new fully electric eWorker telescopic handler model from Merlo.

This new model is a completely fresh ground up design which joins the existing comprehensive compact telescopic handler line up from Merlo. This all electric development signifies the commitment of this family owned innovative manufacturer to a greener and more sustainable future.

At the heart of the development programme was an understanding of the complex range of challenges agriculture will face in the future as we meet the demands that a sustainable future will bring. The launch of the e-worker range heralds the introduction of “Generation Zero”, a completely new range of non-fossil fuel powered models, which can be expected from Merlo in the years ahead.

On display at this year’s Agriscot show will be the eWorker 25.5-90 4wd model. This compact unit packs a mighty

punch with a 90 kw electric motor, offering a maximum 2.5 ton lift capacity and a full lift height of 4.80 metres.

A maximum 8 hour run time ensures the eWorker can deliver throughout the working day before requiring a recharge. Three driving modes of “Eco, Normal & Power” allows the operator to optimise the machine performance to the job in hand. The 90 kw power unit offers terrific flexibility, great torque characteristics and power to spare for the most demanding of applications.

Zero emissions and silent operation will undoubtedly appeal to those working around livestock and in confined spaces, something which has not been possible before with diesel powered units.

We look forward to welcoming you to the Merlo stand in the Highland Hall at this year’s Agriscot on the 9th February. Northern Dairy Equipment is a UK based manufacturing company that specialises in unique dairy equipment products to improve efficiency and help improve milking routines. The award winning Sanicleanse teat-prep system is one of our key products with over 800 installations in the UK and currently exporting to 63 countries. This product is the lightest and most reliable unit on the market and offers a one-step prep system for the pre-milking of the dairy cows. The unique hot water and biocidal chemical mix offers a complete bacteria kill, helping lower mastitis incidences and bacteria and somatic cell counts. system reduces costs on labour, while enabling consistency throughout the spraying routine. A quick return on investment is achieved with this system User is able to control the amount of product that is used easily and adjust settings through a touchscreen control system.

The Sanicleanse system was available on the recent grant that covered Scotland and when announced again soon will fall under it again.

Northern Dairy Equipment have appointed Fullwoodhead Dairy Supplies to cover Scotland with the Sanicleanse teat scrubber. Fullwoodhead are a successful family run business with multiple depots based across Scotland. They have a large amount of systems installed and are able to offer free trials and product support on our behalf. They will also be covering Cumbria with our equipment.

The iBath automatic footbath system with the iSoftware management system is manufactured from the highest grade stainless steel and can be manufactured to any specific length, width and depth. The iSoftware is able to control 6 footbaths from one touchscreen.

The Teatwand is the automatic pre/post spraying system available for external rotary parlours. This Speed and Reliability Counts with Perry of Oakley

As Perry of Oakley design and manufacture all their drying and handling range in the UK they can get stock items to you fast. This is a big focus for Perrys during 2022 especially

with their expanded warehouse facilities and expert view of the stock needed to keep your grain facilities moving. Technical support when you need it

The Perrys technical support and sales team have over 400 years of experience making Perrys the UK’s most experienced manufacturer of grain drying, handling and storage. The team are on hand, especially during harvest, to help you keep your machines running.

New product ranges

Perrys have developed two products to assist in the safe and efficient use of grain driers; the fire detection systems and the moisture control system. The fire detection system can be retro-fitted to any make of drier, providing vital early warnings of fire helping you reduce the damage to the drier and surrounding plant. The system can be stand alone or integrated into your control panel. A moisture control system is also available after extensive testing. Using well proven moisture measuring technology and a unique sampling system to ensure accurate moisture readings the system can reliably control the output from the drier. The system is compatible with any PLC controlled Perry drier and can also be adapted to control any other drier.

A new range of modular augers with capacities ranging from 20tph to 125tph have also been developed, to be supplied from stock making them an ideal quick solution.

Full range of drying, handling and storage solutions

The extensive range of continuous flow driers, chain & flight conveyors, aspirator precleaners, belt & bucket elevators, belt conveyors, U-trough and tubular screw conveyors, and now also storage bins and silos means the Perry team will be able to find the right combination of machines to meet your needs and budgets. The PWS team are delighted to be able to attend Agriscot after its cancellation last year. It is a great way to meet customers old and new and an opportunity to show case our equipment. Our range includes Power Washers, Industrial heaters, Sweepers, Vacuums for dust suppression, Air Compressors and Generators. Like so many companies, Covid caused disruption on a huge scale, but PWS have continued to work throughout the pandemic offering their services to the many essential businesses not least the farming community who have worked tirelessly keeping us all fed and watered.

The company has grown over the last 38 years from being just Jack Whitecross, a former dairyman to the largest supplier of Power Washers and Cleaning Equipment in Scotland. The team of 30 is headed up by Jack’s Son and Daughter, Jim and Liz and they are proud to have not only a great sales, office and engineering team but also 3 members of the next generation of Whitecross’s on board to ensure the future of the company. 2021 has been an amazing year despite the pandemic. In April we were awarded the Royal Warrant from HRH Prince of Wales (Duke of Rothsay) for the supply and upkeep of Power Washers for the Royal family in Scotland for many years. In October we were crowned Family Business of the year by the Courier for Angus and the Mearns which we were delighted about.

Pop on the stand where you will be made welcome and can see the machines or pick up some literature. If you are interested in replacing any of your equipment the PWS team can give you advice, arrange a no obligation

demonstration or can discuss looking after the machine that you have at the moment even if we did not supply it.

Tramspread engine driven pump units can cut costs

Tramspread engine driven pump units (EDPUs) offer contractors and farmers the potential to save time and money by only requiring one tractor and one operator.

Designed and manufactured by Tramspread, the Suffolk based slurry specialists, the EDPUs are offered in five models. Managing Director, Terry Baker explains: “EDPUs are easy to use and reliable. The range starts with a skid mounted pump and there is a single axel model that can be specified with a compressor. There is also a fast tow twin axel model, and the larger twin axel contractor trailer that features twin 1000m hose reel spools.”

The pump units can be fitted with the Teletram GSM or an SIL remote control that Mr Baker and his team have helped to design. This can be combined with pressure sensors and a flowmeter to enable the entire umbilical system to be accurately operated and monitored by just one man.

The pumps can also be coupled to an applicator with Tramspread’s Raven Box mapping and recording technology to report the areas treated and the quantity of slurry utilised. “The combination of knowing the speed of flow and being able to control it remotely is key to the time and equipment savings these EDPUs offer,” says Mr Baker.

The pumps are powered by a 175 horsepower Iveco engine coupled to a Bauer SX2000 pump, which is capable of pumping up to 300 cubic metres per hour depending on distance and hose diameter. “We also offer pumps from Doda, Cri-man and Ferrari, and we can fit second-hand engines if customers prefer,” he says.

The single axel EDPU with compressor will be on show at AgriScot, along with a Tramspread dribble bar, hose reel and PTO pump.

Vogelsang GmbH

Vogelsang GmbH & Co. KG, headquartered in Essen (Oldenburg) in Lower Saxony, develops, produces and sells technically high-quality, individually configurable and servicefriendly machines. Founded in 1929, the company grew from a manufacturer of agricultural machinery into a specialist in machines and solutions in the wastewater, agricultural technology, biogas, industrial and transportation technology segments. The innovative family company currently employs over 1,000 people worldwide. As an internationally oriented mechanical engineering group, the company ensures the highest product quality through research, development, and production at the Essen location and in other production facilities in Germany and abroad. Thanks to a continuously growing network of subsidiaries and sales offices, Vogelsang is present with over 50 locations around the world. The company has already received several awards from the economic research institute Prognos AG, among other things as “Germany’s innovation leader”. Further information can be found online at: vogelsang.info