FARMING SCOTLAND MAGAZINE (November - December 2024 edition)

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

AgriScot Preview

LAMMA 2025

ATV’s & UTV’s

Diet Feeders

In Focus

30 years of Terrington Machinery

New to Market

Walter Watson’s new silage compactor

Artisans

Victoria Faith Artist

James Ritchie Blacksmith

Gift ideas for Xmas

Baxters Hampers & winter warmer ideas from Wild & Moor

magazine

Travel Scotland Pitlochry

Scottish Country Life

Hands tied by legislation

Ffermio Cymru

News from Wales

Articles

A true taste of Cumbria Precision Pollination Opportunity Knocks! plus

Women In Agriculture • World Farming

Northern Isles • Farmhouse Kitchen

Book Serialisation including our regular news areas and columns

Tuathanachas Alba

editor's bit

C’mon the Bees!

What do you want for Xmas?

A question I have been asked for almost 64 years now!

From Lego, Scalextrics, Captain Scarlett, Paint by Numbers, Subbuteo and guitars, I have asked for them all.

In recent years, we always got a game to play – just to help keep us young you understand.

This year is a wee bit different, I have been thinking about nature. Probably because I am getting old and decrepit.

And also because of the idiotic harm that we humans inflict on nature with our chemicals and garbage that we spread everywhere – naming no names or water companies etc.

So, what do I want for Xmas this year, in addition to world peace of course?

Simple – a Bee Hotel for my back garden, this little thing would please me greatly.

It is not much on its own, but if we all supported our pollinators, what a difference we could make.

Farming needs pollinators, the whole world needs pollinators – so we need to stop killing them, and finally prove that there really is intelligent life on Earth!

Anyway, to finish, I hope you all get what your hearts desire this Xmas, be it a gift, love, family, new car (couldn’t resist!).

Whatever it is, may I wish you all the best and we’ll be back in January.

Slàinte, Athole.

arable Scientists examine wheat genes to boost the crop’s disease resistance

New research that could increase the natural resistance of wheat to a devastating fungal disease has begun at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh

Wheat is the world’s second biggest grain crop by volume –with around 800 million metric tons produced last year – and is used in bread and many other food products, as well as animal feed and the distilling industry.

As the world’s population rises from 8 billion to a projected 10 billion people by 2050, increasing the size of wheat crops and reducing the plant’s vulnerability to disease is increasingly urgent, the scientists say.

But wheat faces a growing threat from a common fungal disease called septoria tritici blotch, which attacks and kills wheat plants. In the UK, the disease destroys up to 20% of wheat crops a year.

“Countries in Northern Europe are vulnerable to septoria because of the weather,”

explained Dr Angela Feechan, a plant pathologist – an expert in plant diseases – at HeriotWatt’sInstitute for Life and Earth Sciences. “We have more rain – and the fungus is a big fan of rainy, humid conditions.”

The disease, which is also known as septoria leaf blotch, septoria or the acronym STB, is very difficult to control.

“We can’t completely control it with fungicides – chemicals used to control fungal crop diseases,” Dr Feechan said. “So we need to think of different ways to try and control it. And one of the ways you can do that is through genetics.”

The research will examine why some wheat varieties are more resistant than others to this disease.

Dr Feechan and her team will examine specific genes in different wheat varieties, and

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how the products of these interact with the fungus that causes septoria. This fungus is called Zymoseptoria tritici (Z. tritici) and attacks the wheat plant through spores. These destroy the plant’s ability to absorb sunlight through photosynthesis – turning the leaves of the wheat plant yellow and speckled, killing areas of the leaf.

“We think there are very small differences in the genes of different wheat varieties that determine whether or not they are resistant to this disease,” Dr Feechan said. “If we can find the difference in these genes that give us resistance, they could be used to breed resistant wheat varieties in the field.”

The UK produced 14 million tonnes of wheat in 2023. Wheat accounts for about a third of total cereal production in Scotland, which produced more than 980

thousand tonnes of wheat in 2023.

The Heriot-Watt researchers will be working with a collection of 300 wheat varieties at INRAE, France’s National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and Environment, as part of a collaboration.

The research is funded through a postdoctoral fellowship from UK Research

and Innovation – the UK’s national funding agency for investing in science and research. Researcher Dr Debabrata Dutta, a plant biology specialist, is joining Heriot-Watt University to work on the research.

Developing the natural resistance of wheat through the plant’s existing genetic diversity is distinct from genetic

modification, which involves altering a plant’s genetic makeup, Dr Feechan added.

Boosting crop yields – the volume of crops produced – is a core focus of global efforts to tackle food insecurity –not having access to enough affordable, nutritious food.

More than 300 million people in 71 countries are facing

hunger this year because of food insecurity, according to the United Nation’s World Food Programme.

The Institute for Life and Earth Sciences specialises in researching the environment, health and food science and is part of Heriot-Watt’s School of Energy, Geoscience, Infrastructure and Society.

James Hutton Institute secures £2.4m in funding for trailblazing research projects

Projects include medical cannabis standardisation, vertical farming light technology and genetic optimisation of lettuce

Pioneering medicinal cannabis research is set to take place in Dundee after the James Hutton Institute secured £350k funding from the Biotechnology and

Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC).

An additional £867k funding was also secured for two further projects; light pulsing

technologies in vertical farming (£305K), and developing genetic tools to accelerate breeding for indoor-grown lettuce (£562k).

Support from industry partners

totaling £1.22m for these projects brings the total value for the projects to £2.4m.

All three projects will take place at the Institute’s newly-

established Advanced Plant Growth Centre (APGC), situated at its Invergowrie site. The APGC is part of the Tay Cities Regional Deal partnership supported by £45m from the UK Government and £17m from the Scottish Government. The APGC combines five core facilities, interconnected but independent, to facilitate scientific innovation and discovery.

The three multi-year initiatives are designed to transform horticultural practice and utilise modern breeding approaches to further new products and services. They also have a focus on sustainability, advanced pharmaceutical applications and genetic research.

BBSRC, which funded the projects through its Protected and Controlled Environment Horticulture initiative, invests in scientific research that aims to push back the frontiers of biology and deliver a healthy, prosperous and sustainable future.

The first project, (Exploiting Controlled Environments for the Development of Optimised Cannabis Sativa Phenotypes for Pharmaceutical Applications), will aim to support the growing need for medicinal cannabis by helping standardise the product to meet pharmaceutical quality though environment manipulation and the development of new cannabis plant architectures.

Currently, the varieties, or cultivars, vary greatly based on the region they are grown in – creating

different cannabinoid profiles. The research in Dundee will aim to use Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) technologies to create a consistent product, and help the UK to maintain its position as the world’s largest producer and exporter of medicinal cannabis.

The second project, (Light Pulsing in Vertical Farming for Sustainable Fresh Produce (LightPuls-VF)), will see the Institute become the home of state-of-the-art light pulsing technology. The research will aim to revolutionise how basil and

other herbs are grown vertically –improving efficiency, nutritional quality and reducing energy consumption. The project is firmly focused on sustainability and improving food security and reducing the UK’s reliance on imported produce.

Scotland’s stop/start harvest sees wide range in yields and quality according to NFUS survey

Harvest just being completed in some areas, with other areas well advanced in their autumn plantings.

Responses to NFU Scotland’s annual harvest survey from around the country highlight the impact that weather has had on Scottish crops.

More than 150 growers initially responded to the Union’s 31st consecutive annual survey and information on

yields has been sent to Scottish Government who use the data, alongside data from other stakeholders, to produce early crop estimates for Scotland.

Due to the late and ongoing harvest in some parts, the NFUS survey has remained open so that a complete picture of the harvest can be collated at https:// www.surveymonkey.com/r/ D5YDBH7

The average yields so far recorded by respondents to the NFUS harvest survey were: Spring barley, 6.29 tonnes per hectare (t/ha); Winter barley, 7.26 t/ha; Winter wheat, 8.51 t/ ha; Winter oats, 7.3 t/ha; Spring oats, 6.96 t/ha; oilseed rape, 3.45 t/ha and rye, 7.0 t/ha.

Comments provided by respondents presented a very mixed picture from around Scotland. Some have described this year’s growing season and harvest as the toughest in 30 years, with a wet autumn and winter, followed by a late spring.

Harvesting conditions have also been tricky, with many being grateful for the good weather window in mid- to late September.

The huge variability in yields can be highlighted by some wheats yielding 6 t/ha in some areas whilst others yielding as high as 11 t/ha.

The better weather this autumn has seen that many, who had managed to harvest, also manage to get their winter crops in in good conditions, which has been a positive, and early establishment has been good.

NFU Scotland’s Combinable Crops Chair, Jack Stevenson, who farms in Banffshire said: “The common theme we heard across Scotland for harvest 2024 was huge variations in yield and quality.

“With record rainfall in some areas since October 2023, winter crops suffered almost from the moment they were planted.

“Spring crops have done better even though they were late in the ground. We had decent amounts of sunshine and growth in June and July, and some farmers have had bumper crops of spring barley.

“Early reports of grain analysis across the country indicated a wide variance in

quality. Some grain required a lot of drying, with some having moistures as high as 24 per cent. Reports are that there has been quite a lot of barley has met the specification for malting.

“It has not been an easy year for Scottish growers and, when combined with the recent

drop in price in the marketplace, many farmers will be asking themselves what to do next.

“We need to build confidence in the sector for the future, so that farmers see a fair return for all the efforts and resources that they put in to producing such high-quality products.”

Shri Varalakshmi Foods awards Haith its first ever Indian order

The UK’s leading manufacturer of vegetable handling equipment has this month marked a significant export achievement, supplying its first ever machine to India.

Haith Group, which received the order via its European representative SWP Machinery,

shipped the custom-designed Cassava Root washing system to Shri Varalakshmi Foods in the city of Namakkal, where it will be installed in a brandnew factory, currently under construction.

Cassava is extensively cultivated in tropical and

subtropical regions for its starchy root tuber, from which Shri Varalakshmi Foods create Sabudana, a staple food in India consumed during festivals and fasts, and Tapioca, which is boiled and often eaten with fish or beef curry.

Shiri Varalakshmi Foods currently processes more than 550 metric tonnes of Tapioca tubers each day to produce 130 tonnes of Sabudana, though this will increase dramatically once its new factory is operating.

“We were approached by Shiri Varalakshmi Foods’ Joint managing director, Shri S Vimalkumar, who, after extensive research, identified Haith as the perfect company to develop the custom machinery he was looking for,” says Krijn van Groningen, owner of SWP Machinery. “As well design and manufacture, Shiri Varalakshmi Foods was looking for an installation partner, which is where our engineers come in. Like Haith, this order is the first one we have received from India, and we are very much looking forward to next month when we will be visiting Namakkal and starting the installation.”

The development of the Cassava Root washing system was overseen by Haith’s sales manager, Rob Highfield. “As well as being our first order from India, this is also the first time we’ve developed a system to wash Cassava. Our design team have combined an Evolution multi-separator and adjustable coils to remove soil and waste

prior to entering a Cyclone Stone Separator. The crop is then washed through a high-capacity 5m x 1500mm barrel washer with spray wash system and then peeled with a Haith RootVeg Peeler before going on for further processing.

“The Cassava tuber is quite unusual, and we’re very proud

of how our design team rose to the challenge of working with a brand new type of produce. It will be very rewarding to see the machine operating in the new line.

“This order is also very rewarding in terms of helping us meet Haith’s ambitious export

Join the rebellion this autumn

Growers looking for a strongperforming winter wheat that they can sow late this autumn and harvest early next year, should consider the hard Group 4 variety,

LG Rebellion, from Limagrain Field Seeds UK.

The variety builds on many of the agronomic strengths that made KWS Extase such a popular choice

targets. As Haith is already very well-known and extremely successful in the UK, Haith’s senior management team is keen to increase our overseas sales. Obviously, India offers huge opportunities, with UK exports to the country surpassing £16 billion in 2023.” on farms, but brings with it higher yield potential and even earlier maturity.

“It’s a high yielding hard feed wheat and has shown very

consistent high yield potential across testing seasons and regions, with additional desirable agronomic characteristics,” says Limagrain Field Seeds arable technical manager, Ron Granger.

Early maturity is a particularly valuable characteristic of LG Rebellion, offering growers in many parts of the country, north and south, a way to spread harvest workloads or provide an early entry for following crops, such as oilseed rape, he says.

LG Rebellion has strong tillering ability and good spring vigour, and suits drilling around the traditional October window. However, it can also perform well when sown later, into November, providing conditions allow, therefore could make a good choice for growers looking to sow wheat after later harvested potatoes, sugar beet, or maize, Mr Granger says.

“While LG Beowulf remains the highest yielding variety in late drilling situations on the present AHDB Recommended List, there

is also a good opportunity for extended drilling dates with LG Rebellion, because it’s so quick out of the blocks regarding its vigour in the spring. It produces strong tillers and responds very well to PGR programmes.”

Another key strength of LG Rebellion is its consistently high untreated yield. The 2024 AHDB provisional harvest results (published 26 September) show that LG Rebellion delivered the second highest mean untreated yield over the four years to this harvest (20202024), at 117% of control.

This is partly due to an excellent disease resistance profile, especially for Brown Rust and Septoria, plus the variety also offers Pch1 eyespot resistance, which will be particularly important for growers looking to grow it in a second wheat situation, says Mr Granger. Indeed, LG Rebellion has performed well in second wheat situations, he notes.

Grain quality is excellent, offering a high Hagberg and

specific weight, although he reminds growers that it is a hard Group 4 feed wheat with ukp export potential, rather than a Group 2 quality wheat like its parent. “It’s a KWS Extase derivative with 4% higher yield, offering yields comparable with the best hard feed wheats commercially available.

“But choosing a variety should never be just about yield,” he adds. “While yield is important, it’s also important to consider all of the other attributes that a variety offers growers on farm, whether that’s variety positioning, early maturity, disease resistance, or grain quality.”

Human urine could be used as ecofriendly crop fertiliser

Bacterial communities in soil are as resilient to human urine as synthetic fertilisers – making recycling the bodily fluid as a fertiliser for agricultural crops a viable proposition, according to a new study.

Scientists discovered that, even when applied in high doses, oneyear stored urine had little impact on soil bacterial communities and produced minimal change in soil pH and salinity.

However, the researchers did discover that urine fertilization increased the relative amounts of nitrifying and denitrifying groups compared to synthetic fertiliser - implying that more nitrogen oxides could be emitted when fertilising with urine.

Publishing their findings in Applied Soil Ecology, the team

of researchers from University of Birmingham and L’Institut Agro Montpellier, France, call for further studies on the longterm effects of urine fertilisation - particularly regarding nitrogen oxide production and soil salinity.

Co-author Manon Rumeau, from the University of Birmingham, commented: “Our research highlights the potential of recycling human urine to enhance agricultural sustainability, reduce wastewater pollution, and decrease reliance on synthetic fertilisers. Stored urine can be safely applied to a plant-soil system without negatively impacting the soil microbiome.”

Fresh urine is composed of 95 % water with the remaining

5% made up of amino compounds, such as urea or creatinine, organic anions and inorganic salts making it a source of bioavailable nutrients and micronutrients for plant growth. There has been great interest in re-using human urine as a crop fertiliser, but – until the publication of this study - more understanding was required on how urine can affect soil functions and microbial communities.

Scientists fertilised a spinach crop with two different doses of a source-separated and stored human urine –comparing these with a synthetic fertiliser treatment and a water treatment without fertilisation, conducted

across four soil tanks in greenhouse conditions.

After 12 months of storage, urine had a depleted microbiome but contained few common strains of urine. Thud storing urine for several months, with the resulting increase in its pH value (about 9 rather than 6.5 for fresh urine) and its free ammonia concentration is considered sufficient to inactivate most human pathogenic bacteria and break down extracellular DNA. Soil bacterial communities were resistant to urine fertilization with only 3% of groups of organisms impacted. The urine’s high salt concentration had little discernible effect on the bacterial community.

New seed and plant health specialists at ProCam

Leading agronomy firm ProCam has made two new appointments to bolster its technical support to UK arable and livestock farmers.

Forage crop specialist, Hayley Wellings, joins as the company’s new Technical Seed Specialist, while Phil Burrell, formerly of Yara International, joins as ProCam’s new Plant Health Business Manager.

Technical Seeds Specialist

Hayley Wellings lives on a family farm in Herefordshire which grows arable crops and cider apples alongside grassland, maize and fodder beet for finishing beef cattle. She joins ProCam from Agrii where she was the company’s forage technical specialist. Prior to this she worked as

a forage crop nutritionist for Timac Agro Solutions and Mole Valley Forage Services: roles in which she helped customers to maximise the performance of their livestock through improved forage production.

In her role as Technical Seed Specialist, Hayley will provide technical support and advice to ProCam’s agronomists and customers throughout the UK in relation to variety and mixture selection, crop establishment and utilisation of forage crops, cover crops and environmental mixtures from ProCam’s Field Options Performance Seeds range.

Commenting on her new role, Hayley explained that the biggest gains in forage and livestock production come from making the best cropping and variety choice decisions. “Having worked in both the nutrition and seed selection sides of forage production – as well as having plenty of on-farm livestock experience – I’m thrilled to join a business that provides the best crop production advice and realworld solutions to farmers so that their businesses can become more efficient and more sustainable.

“ProCam is an innovative and customer driven business, whose agronomists offer a peerless crop production service,” she adds.

“And, with a technically strong portfolio of forage seeds in the form of the Field Options Performance Seeds range, plus ProCam’s wider range of crop nutrition, protection and soil sampling services, we are able to provide solutions from soil to silage clamp which ensure our customers’ forage crops reach their maximum potential.”

Plant Health Business Manager

Phil Burrell joins ProCam from Yara International where he held several commercial and technical roles, the most recent being the company’s Head of Crop Nutrition Services. Prior to this he was Yara’s technical and portfolio manager for Europe, the Nordic states and Oceania. He has also worked as an agronomist and has been BASIS and FACTS qualified since 2003 and 2005 respectively.

Farm Resilience Programme Launch in Cairngorms and Lanarkshire

Livestock farmers in Lanarkshire and the Cairngorms are set to benefit from free business support via The Royal Countryside Fund’s Farm Resilience Programme taking place this autumn.

The RCF will again be working in partnership with RSABI to deliver the 2024/25 series of workshops, providing around £2000 worth of free business training skills, and one-to-one support to each farming family involved.

The programme, open to dairy and livestock family farm businesses and crofters, takes a whole-farm and whole-family approach, bringing in a wide range of expert consultants to deliver the workshops.

Since 2016 the Farm Resilience Programme has supported over 1500 farming families to improve their business performance and make real changes on farm.

As part of the partnership agreement, the RCF is awarding a £15,000 grant to RSABI to assist the work the charity does to support people in Scottish agriculture.

Keith Halstead, Executive Director of The Royal Countryside Fund, said: “The RCF is pleased to be working in partnership with RSABI to deliver the Farm Resilience Programme in Scotland in 2024/25.

“The workshops cover areas such as benchmarking and improving on-farm efficiencies to reduce costs, as well as succession planning, integrating environmental management and business planning.

“The programme has shown to increase the confidence of farming families in their decision-making which enables their farm enterprises to become more adaptable and helps build their resilience to change.”

Carol McLaren, Chief Executive of RSABI, said the charity was looking

forward to working with the RCF again this year.“This free-of-charge programme offers farming families a very valuable opportunity to really focus on their businesses and identify where savings can be made and profitability improved.”

Those interested in finding out more about the programme can contact group coordinators, Doug Bell (Lanarkshire) via crofthill@outlook.com or on 07803 222376 or Kerry MacLennan (Cairngorms) via kerrysdalefarm@gmail.com or 07375428261.

You can also find further information on The Royal Countryside Fund’s website: www. royalcountrysidefund.org.uk.

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

Why can succession be the elephant in the room?

As farmers get older, they may see relatives or non-farming friends stop working and start the next part of their lives – whether this is being making more time for grandchildren, travelling or even spending more time indulging in their favourite pastimes. This process is usually a well-planned and smooth transition for both parties so just why is the farming and crofting community different?

Farming and crofting are ways of life - far more than a career in many cases and quite often the bond with a farm and its land is strong. In many cases, they will have made that business what it is today, from improving the land, building the steading or expanding the area or they may feel that they themselves had to wait a long time to become the main decision maker so are reluctant to loosen their grip. This connection

In his role as Plant Health Business Manager, Phil will work closely with ProCam’s technical and agronomy teams to maximise the company’s crop nutrition and nutrient use efficiency offerings including mainstream fertilisers, foliar applied products, biostimulants, and biofertilisers.

Commenting on his appointment, Phil said what really

appealed to him about the ProCam business structure was the fact the business is privately owned. “This means decisions can be made quickly when they are right for the business and its customers. Customer service is at the heart of everything ProCam does,” he explains. “This is so important and is summed up the ProCam ethos of ‘people not processes’.”

means that retiring, passing the farm or croft on, or selling up may well feel like giving up with the desire still burning bright to take the farm to the next stage or even just stay in control. Time will catch up with everyone and every farmer or croft needs to think about their future and while the mind may be willing, the body may be showing its age.

One thing is certain, retirement and succession won’t go away so it is never too early to have a discussion with family and advisors. For some, the solution will be relatively simple to map out whereas others may be more complex. Either way, careful planning ensures that transition can be as smooth as possible. This ensures your retirement is what you want it to be and also gives the next generation and other family members the best opportunity.

British beetroot growers to have access to US market for first time

British beetroot growers will have access to the market in the United States for the first time following years of campaigning.

The news follows extensive talks between the UK and US governments, as well as trade representatives.

The new access will be worth approximately £150,000 per year in increased exports, according to industry estimates.

Defra said it would now work closely with UK beetroot growers and relevant industry bodies to ensure a smooth transition into the US market.

Farming minister Daniel Zeichner said the milestone marked a significant step forward for Britain’s beetroot growers.

“This government was elected on a mandate to support our farmers in trade deals – that is exactly what we are delivering,” he said.

“But this is only the start – over the coming weeks and months I will work tirelessly to back our British farmers and get our food exports moving again.”

NFU President Tom Bradshaw said it was ‘great news’, adding that it was industry collaboration with government that had been key to resolving this issue.

He said: “Being able to access the US market, supplementing local production, will help to meet rising consumer demand for this healthy, nutritional crop, creating genuine growth opportunities for farmers and growers in the UK.

FLAVOUR OF SCOTLAND

Premium red meat unites Glasgow Warriors and Edinburgh Rugby in first-of-its-kind partnership

With the domestic rugby season kicking off, Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) is proud to announce a landmark partnership with Glasgow Warriors and Edinburgh Rugby as part of its new education programme for young players - focusing on the positive role of premium red meat in health and performance.

Through this collaboration, QMS will educate young athletes, parents, and communities on the benefits of incorporating Scotch Beef, Scotch Lamb, and Specially Selected Pork into their diets. As well as profiling the red meat quality assurance brands at home matches, the deal includes access to specialists and public health professionals for creating learning resources and recipes, and player appearances from both sides at eight educational development days held across Scotland.

Sarah Millar, Chief Executive of QMS commented: “Through this partnership, we are uniquely bringing the two Scottish professional clubs together to endorse the importance of our high-quality red meat in athletic performance.

“It is vital that the nutritional benefits of Scotch Beef, Scotch Lamb, and Specially Selected Pork – a great source of protein, iron and vitamin B12 – is integrated into the fabric of Scottish sports and daily life.

“By promoting educational opportunities and practical resources, we aim to inspire young and aspiring athletes and their families to make informed dietary choices that will fuel their success on and off the field.”

Players on both sides know first-hand the important role of the rural and red meat supply chain in supporting our society, including Edinburgh Rugby’s Patrick (Paddy) Harrison, and Glasgow Warriors’ Murphy

Walker and Fergus Watson who have grown up on family farms. The QMS development days are aimed at engaging the next generation of sport stars on the benefits of quality red meat, such as Fergus who made his Scotland U20 debut appearance against Wales in February 2024.

Whilst recognising that different positions have different nutritional requirements, the QMS resources will highlight that all rugby players benefit from red meat energy sources to bolster both strength and stamina, as well as support recovery.

Quality Meat Scotland focus on what’s behind the label in new consumer marketing campaign for Scotch Beef, Scotch Lamb & Specially Selected Pork

Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) has proudly launched its authentic and emotionally engaging new marketing campaign, ‘When You Know, You Know’ developed with Edinburgh-based creative agency, Multiply. It highlights to consumers that there is simply no match for the livestock born and reared in Scotland under the QMS whole of life, whole of supply chain quality assurance schemes.

Scotch Beef, Scotch Lamb, and Specially Selected Pork will take centre stage on television supported by outdoor, press, social media advertising and PR with messaging that is designed to educate consumers on the unique benefits of choosing quality assured red meat, taking them

on a field to fork journey to fully understand the Scotch Difference.

Emma Heath, Director of Marketing at QMS, said: “The theme for the new campaign is to look behind the label and everything that Scotch stands for as this is ultimately at the heart of

what we do and gives us a strong foundation to build on creatively over the coming years. Our new campaign highlights that choosing Scotch Beef, Scotch Lamb, and Specially Selected Pork means opting for unmatched quality that comes from our world-class

standards that were introduced around 30 years ago making them one of the first in the industry. We want to shine a spotlight on the tireless passion and expertise across the whole of the Scottish red meat supply chain.

“People want to feel confident in what they’re buying, and our campaign provides that peace

of mind. Scotch Beef, Scotch Lamb, and Specially Selected Pork are more than labels— they represent trust, pride of provenance and perfection in taste. This campaign reinforces why there’s simply no substitute and where people have a choice, they understand the benefits of choosing Scotch.”

HRH The Princess Royal honours Scotch Butcher

Club member during visit to esteemed butchery

Her Royal Highness (HRH) The Princess Royal, recently visited the Stirling branch of Hugh Black & Sons; one of Scotland’s most celebrated independent butchers. The visit marks a significant milestone for the company, which has grown from a single retail unit in 1987 to a network of 13 high street shops, a cutting plant, and a factory employing over 150 local people.

As patron of the Scotch Chef’s Club, run by Quality Meat Scotland (QMS), The Princess Royal toured the Stirling premises to gain first hand insight into Hugh Black & Sons’ dedication to quality, traceability, and sustainable local sourcing practices. A member of the Scotch Butchers Club run by QMS, the family-run business has established itself as a key player in Scotland’s food industry, sourcing high-quality Scotch Beef, Scotch Lamb and Specially Selected Pork from local farms and auction markets.

The Princess Royal’s visit highlighted Hugh Black & Sons’ commitment to Scottish farming, its links to local auction markets,

and the success of its expansion, including the acquisition of Castlehill Farm in 2017, which supplies Scotch Lamb directly to its customers. The company’s continued investment in local sourcing, apprenticeships, and animal welfare was demonstrated through their cutting plant at Wishaw Abattoir and Bathgate factory, where they have made significant improvements in refrigeration and packaging, ensuring the highest standards in production.

The visit also provided an opportunity to explore the company’s transition from a family farm to one of Scotland’s largest independent butchers. In 2023, Hugh Black & Sons received the prestigious Best for Scottish Sourcing (Multiple Retailer) award at the Scotland Food and Drink Awards. Their innovative approach to product development and their dedication to reducing food miles by investing in local farms and markets has made them a model for high-street retailers facing competition from large supermarkets and online retailers.

Scotland The Brand

Farming at the heart of a manifesto for people and planet

By Ruth Watson

50 years ago, a group of people including the local doctor, a farmer, and a baker, got together to deliver ‘The Aberfeldy Manifesto’. They made a compelling case for the connection between good food and good health, while emphasising the importance of short chain food supply for local resilience, the economy, and sustainability. The community is again coming together to look at food systems to help support wellbeing both of people and planet. Recently, I chaired an event in Aberfeldy organised as part of their Open Gate Festival.

Alex Brewster farms at Rotmell, near Pitlochry. He sees the potential of the growing ‘Support Local’ movement:

“There’s a very able network already within Highland Perthshire. These local connections do empower local businesses. A lot of great people are currently involved. I don’t think you reinvent the wheel. Empower the groundwork and that’s when the communities fight for

themselves and create a local food culture.”

The discussion, ‘Food for People and Planet’, began with a lively presentation from local schoolchildren, which NFUS President, Martin Kennedy (himself an Aberfeldy man) had high praise for.

“What’s been demonstrated by Kenmore primary was absolutely fantastic,” Martin told me. “We need to see that right through the country until we get our consumers understanding the importance of high-quality local food production and nutrition that’s at the back of that, instead of importing from places without the same environmental, animal health and welfare standards, don’t necessarily treat labour in the same way as what we do here. I’m really optimistic about it, but it needs to start with education.”

As more people become aware of the importance of food connections, we need to find ways to make it easier for local farms to connect with their communities.

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

Fiona Carrick, Counter Supervisor, and Arlene Young, Counter Assistant, demonstrated burger and kebab making to the Princess Royal.

food & drink

Waterford Distillery revives 19th century Goldthorpe barley for new heritage whisky

Waterford Distillery, producer of the most naturally flavoursome single malts, has today launched its latest bottling in its Heritage barley series - Heritage: Goldthorpe.

Heritage: Goldthorpe is part of a limited release of 4,000 bottles and marks the first time that the barley variety –Goldthorpe - has been used for drinks production in over 100 years.

The new single malt whisky is the latest milestone in Waterford Distillery’s journey to uncover whisky’s most unique and complex flavours through different agricultural techniques and represents single malts crafted from resurrected barley varieties.

Heritage: Goldthorpe was originally discovered in 1889 as a single, fortuitous mutation in a field but vanished from the agricultural landscape decades ago, to be replaced by higheryielding, less flavoursome barley varieties.

Working alongside Minch Maltings and the Irish Department for Agriculture, Food and Marine Waterford Distillery have spent the last three years upscaling the remaining 50 grams of Goldthorpe to create enough barley to sow the seeds

in Irish fields and climate – its terroirs.

This landmark release offers whisky connoisseurs the first opportunity to taste the flavours of Goldthorpe as a single malt whisky in a century, with the first year’s distillation yielding only 162 barrels.

Pioneering plant breeder, Dr Hebert Hunter, who inspired the first Heritage bottling by Waterford Distillery using the 1959 Hunter variety, declared that the Goldthorpe variety had been “one of the best quality varieties in existence”.

This latest heritage release blends the best of modern technology to bring the old flavours back to life, matured fully in a mixture of 40% firstfill US Oak, 24% Virgin US Oak, 18% Premium French Oak and 18% Vin Doux Naturel casks.

Providing historic flavours to a new generation of whisky connoisseurs, the whisky has aromas of lush vegetation, rich granola bar, berry compote, red apple, green tea, melon, roast beef gravy and prunes, with hints of sweet orchard fruits, apples and pears, cream, light spiciness, red berries, honey, cloves and raisins, giving the whisky a long dried fruit finish.

This limited yield contributes to the exclusivity of the whisky, making it a one-of-a-kind offering in the market.

Funding boost for food sector entrepreneurs

A new fund to support emerging food start-ups has been launched by biosciences innovation and enterprise campus AberInnovation.

The ‘legacy entrepreneurship acceleration programme’ (LEAP) will be funded by the Dick Lawes Legacy Fund and will support initiatives aiming to help aspiring entrepreneurs.

Dick Lawes was a visionary entrepreneur himself - left a lasting impact on the dairy industry, founding the animal nutrition business Volac; and L.E. Pritchitt & Co, now part of Lakeland Dairies.

He pioneered the development of innovative animal nutrition products, which later evolved into human

nutritional solutions through subsequent generations of his family. His success was driven by determination, and the ability to showcase potential value to investors. In his memory, the Dick Lawes Legacy Fund, part of the Betty Lawes Foundation, was established.

The new LEAP programme funding will support up to eight

projects in 2024-2025 in the fields of agriculture, human food and nutrition – with a particular focus on dairy sector farm-to-fork processes, and animal nutrition. The programme is designed to provide technical development support and mentorship to selected projects, backed by a grant of between £30,000 and £50,000 per project.

National food specialist science hub, AberInnovation, located in Gogerddan, just outside Aberystwyth, is rolling out the programme that aligns to their commitment to advancing cuttingedge research and fostering collaboration between academia, industry, and the public sector across the UK.

Dr Rhian Hayward MBE, CEO of AberInnovation, said:

“As we celebrate four years of driving innovation, we are excited and feel privileged to launch the LEAP Programme, which reflects our shared commitment with the family of Dick Lawes to nurturing the next generation of innovators.

“The Dick Lawes Legacy Fund is providing crucial support to projects that have the potential to make a significant impact in the fields of agriculture, food, nutrition and life sciences.

“AberInnovation has established itself as a cornerstone for new product and services development in the biosciences, agrifood and the circular economy for start-ups and established businesses.

“The facility features state-of-the-art resources and academic backing from Aberystwyth University and beyond that beneficiaries of the fund will also benefit from.”

Find more information about the LEAP programme via:

https://aberinnovation.com/ development-hub/leap

Aldi Scotland supermarkets doubles pork range, strengthening commitment to Scottish pork

Aldi Scotland is doubling its primary pork range, further reinforcing its dedication to Scottish farmers and highquality, locally sourced produce.

In partnership with Browns Food Group, one of Scotland’s leading pork suppliers, and with support from Quality Meat Scotland (QMS), eight new pork lines will be available in all 106 Scottish stores from this week.

Announced at the close of Scottish Food and Drink September, the range expansion is a testament to Aldi’s ongoing commitment to Scottish farmers. By working closely with Browns and supported by QMS, Aldi continues to highlight the benefits of buying Scottish, ensuring their customers enjoy a diverse selection of premium local pork at affordable prices.

This commitment to Scottish sourcing was once again recognised by NFU Scotland’s latest Shelfwatch report, which ranked Aldi Scotland #1 for the second consecutive quarter for stocking the highest percentage of Scottish products (45%) in its stores. Aldi also remains the only

supermarket in Scotland to offer 100% fresh Scottish pork across all its locations.

The new pork range includes a variety of high-quality products such as Pork Meatballs, Pork Belly Slices, Basted Pork Loin Steaks, Pork Mince, and Pork Shoulder Steaks, with prices starting from just £1.89.

Graham Nicolson, Group Buying Director at Aldi Scotland, said:

“We’re dedicated to bringing our customers the finest Specially Selected Pork at affordable prices. Thanks to our strong partnerships with farmers and producers across the country, shoppers can now enjoy even more mouth-watering pork options in all 106 of our stores.

“As another Scottish Food and Drink September comes to an end, we’re proud to highlight these valuable collaborations that enable us to offer a diverse and top-quality selection, especially our Scottishled fresh meat range, which we champion alongside Quality Meat Scotland.”

Quality Meat Scotland Chief Executive, Sarah Millar, said:

“It’s fantastic to have one of our top supermarkets make significant further investment into its offering of pork products which are born, reared and processed in Scotland.

“This commitment to Specially Selected Pork is testament to the unmatched quality that comes with whole life assurance. We know from our research that provenance and high standards really matter

to consumers and our new marketing campaign, ‘When You Know You Know’ highlights this guarantee when they choose our label.

“We’ve no doubt the extended range in Aldi will be a success and we have a suite of delicious recipes available on our website, from pork pad Thai to pork and apple burgers to inspire consumers to cook with Specially Selected Pork.”

The All Terrain solutions for todays farmer

A look at some of the models on the market

going into 2025

The 100% electric Corvus Terrain EX4 UTV ATV’s & UTV’s

The Corvus EX4 is a 100% electric 4x4 utility vehicle from Europe’s first manufacturer of 4x4 UTVs. This is an electric 4x4 capable of successfully tackling the toughest working days thanks to its off-road capabilities. The engine is a 13kW AC induction 48V motor capable of hauling a payload capacity of 620kg and the EX4 has a towing capacity of 755kg in low and 479 kg in high. The cargo box is steel with a 300kg load capacity and there is more space for you and your gear with a front storage boot and convenient under seat storage to keep the essentials handy.

The Terrain EX4 achieves 40km/h/25mph and can be driven on roads, making it ideal for a quiet, non-polluting everyday work vehicle. It offers high load capacity, lower maintenance and high vehicle durability with the precision power needed for smooth or rough terrain. There is a dual power selector for ‘Range’ and ‘Power’ which allows you to select electronically the right driving mode for the most demanding jobs. With less maintenance and no fuel costs, UTV electric vehicles are significantly more affordable and cost-effective than traditional petrol or dieselpowered vehicles. The 15kW lithium-ion battery on the EX4 is designed for quick and convenient charging.

The EX4 is whisper-quiet and as an off-road vehicle offers an enjoyable driving experience throughout the working day. With a ground clearance of 309mm and the choice of 4x4 and 4x2 power, even the most difficult

terrain becomes accessible.

All Terrain EX4 models are approved to EU T1a standards and equipped with automotive safety windshield glass, threepoint belts, indicators, headlamps and brake lights, horn, mirrors and windshield wipers. There are three versions of the Terrain EX4: the EX4 Base, EX4 PRO EPS and EX4 CAB EPS. Colour choice is white, orange or green.

The

Fourtrax 420 from Honda

Fourtrax 4wd models are perfectly engineered to tackle the most demanding of conditions.

The 420cc duel injected, liquidcooled, longitudinal mounted engine, delivers both economu and performance. Optimised with Computer Aided Design to deliver best-in-class handling and all-day comfort – the versatile Fourtrax 4wd really sets

the standard, making daily tasks both easier and more enjoyable. Its rugged utility styling and tough double-cradle chassis offers exceptional durability and handling. Its multi-function LCD display provides the driver with key information at a glance, whilst the adjustable pre-load front and rear suspension let you tailor the ride to the terrain and conditions.

Whether you’re using it for farming, gamekeeping, forestry, equestrian or snow clearing, your Honda will quickly become an essential part of your daily routine. You will rely on it in all weathers, on all terrain and for a wide range of jobs.

And with Honda’s reputation for reliability, the Fourtrax 420 may well be your ideal solution.

The Kawasaki Brute Force 450

Offering an ideal balance of physical size, performance and features, the Brute Force 450 enters the market to create a formidable new-season range for Kawasaki.

The new Brute Force 450 offers the feature set, performance, and modern stylish looks customers demand from a mid-size four-wheeler. Being part of the Brute Force family means an elevated level of Kawasaki build quality, durability, features and performance.

Offering class-leading horsepower from its refined 24.4 kW / 33.4 PS engine, the equally refined and rugged chassis has the performance and base settings well-suited to day-to-day hard work and recreational use when

required. A comfort seat and handlebar-mounted light are just two indications of the thought that has gone into the design of Kawasaki’s new mid-weight ATV that also includes LED headlights plus a 3D emblem which forms a distinctivelooking front end. The overall tough, rugged, and modern appearance illustrates this model’s powerful performance and practical intentions.

The Brute Force 450’s liquidcooled, shaft-drive, fuel-injected 4-stroke 443 cm3 motor is equipped with CVT transmission providing smooth, positive transition from low- to highspeeds while an air-cleaner duct high on the chassis contributes to impressive wading ability.

The electrically selectable

2WD/4WD allows easy transition between drive systems to suit changing terrain and applications with 2WD offering

light steering then 4WD offering enhanced traction and, finally, 4WD plus differential lock for maximum traction.

Kioti K9 2410U Utility side by side vehicles

All customers will have their own requirements and needs for the Utility or as some call them side by side vehicles. The kioti K9 2410 models, with their own Kioti 3 cylinder 24.5 hp diesel engine allow you to choose the specification that suits your needs and budget.

All options are based on the same chassis size. The driver and passenger platform has room for 3 x persons to sit comfortably. The driver has his own seat the passengers sit on a 2 x person bench seat with plenty of leg room.

The large rear load bed has a load capacity 500kg and is protected for the long term by a Urethane coating. The transmission

is Belt CVT has a maximum speed of 50 km/h and features down-hill descent control.

All round Sprung suspension gives the unit a comfortable ride even on rougher terrain. The ROPS model can be purchased with either the most basic of protection, sun canopy and front screen or for added protection a full cabin with glass doors and heater. The glass front screens will fully open to 90 degrees if required.

For those looking for a practical vehicle with a bit more luxury the Kioti K9 2410CU unit is now available. This unit has the same basic features but is fitted a factory cabin that features a modern internal

design, winding windows on the driver and passenger doors plus heating and air conditioning.

Polaris unveils new

All Kioti K9 2410 utility vehicles are supplied with 2 year unlimited hour warranty cover.

Sportsman XP 1000 S LE model

Adding to its legacy of value and quality to customers, Polaris Off Road today unveiled further updates to its 2025 lineup, featuring new upgrades that are now available as standard on RANGER and Sportsman models, as well as a new, special-edition colour option available on the topof-the-range Sportsman ATV.

POLARIS SPORTSMAN

In addition to the recentlyannounced Sportsman 570 lineup for 2025, Polaris now unveils the 2025 refresh for its top-spec

Tel. 01592 840686

sport ATV - the Sportsman XP 1000 S - which now includes the introduction of Turf Mode on tractor-homologated models for easier manoeuvrability, as well as performance improvements to the rear sway bar and drag links to increase durability.

Polaris introduces the allnew Sportsman XP 1000 S LE model in a striking new Lava Orange Metallic colour, featuring advanced Walker Evans Racing Shocks so riders can stay out longer with less fatigue and turf mode (tractor & L7e homologations) for easier manoeuvrability.

The Sportsman XP 1000 S takes off-road capability to new heights with the industry’s only 144cm wide stance that delivers superior stability, as well as exceptional torque thanks to its powerful 952cc ProStar engine, ensuring a confident ride even in the most challenging conditions. Key features include highclearance dual A-arm suspension with 29cm front and 35.5cm rear travel, 27” Duro Powergrip II tyres for optimal traction, and a

high-strength frame engineered for maximum durability. All XP 1000 S models feature electric power steering (EPS) for less rider fatigue, on-demand allwheel drive (AWD) for extra traction when it is needed most, as well as an engine braking system (EBS) and active descent control (ADC) for a more confident ride. Riders can also choose between three ride modes - performance (PERF), standard (STND), and work (WORK)offering customisable throttle response.

The Suzuki KingQuad 500

The Suzuki KingQuad 500 in is a powerful, versatile ATV designed for rugged terrain and unpredictable weather. This iconic all-terrain vehicle combines Suzuki’s engineering heritage with modern features, making it the ideal choice for farmers, landowners and outdoor enthusiasts who need reliability and performance.

The KingQuad 500 is powered by a 493cc fuel-injected, liquidcooled, single-cylinder engine, delivering smooth and consistent

power across various conditions. Its robust engine ensures ample torque for challenging tasks like towing and spraying while the advanced fuel injection system optimises fuel efficiency, even during prolonged use. Coupled with a reliable automatic transmission and selectable 2WD/4WD modes, the KingQuad 500 provides exceptional control and traction, allowing users to navigate steep hills, muddy fields, and rocky landscapes with confidence.

The ATV’s sturdy frame is designed for stability and durability, offering a comfortable ride with independent suspension that adapts to rough ground. With adjustable shock absorbers, users can fine-tune the suspension to suit different tasks and terrains. The KingQuad 500’s high ground clearance and protective skid plates ensure vital components are safeguarded, allowing for hassle-free handling of Scotland’s diverse landscapes.

Practicality is a standout feature of the KingQuad 500, boasting a towing capacity of 600 kg and front and rear cargo racks, ideal for transporting equipment, feed, or supplies.

With Suzuki’s reputation for durability and the KingQuad 500’s blend of power, versatility, and innovative design, this ATV is perfectly suited for demanding conditions, helping users get the job done efficiently, whatever the challenge.

Yamaha – by your side, every day

In August this year, Yamaha announced it’s 2025 lineup of Yamaha ATV and Side-by-Side vehicles represents a holistic and customer-driven approach.

The Yamaha utility models focus on accomplishing tasks efficiently, whether it’s navigating rough farm trails, operating in dense forests, or delivering consistent performance in industrial settings. These robust, reliable, and powerful vehicles offer topnotch engineering, comfort, and exceptional durability, ensuring dependable performance that allows riders to enjoy their work throughout the year.

The legendary Kodiak remains a straight-up workhorse for those who need a tough

and versatile vehicle that pairs performance with reliability. Five different variants are available:

Kodiak 700 EPS SE, Kodiak 700 EPS, Kodiak 450 EPS SE, Kodiak 450 EPS, Kodiak 450. Leisure Models

Whether it’s embarking on thrilling forest escapades over the weekend or creating unforgettable mountain memories that push the limits of the possible, the Yamaha models in this segment embody joy, independence, and extraordinary outdoor experiences.

With fresh colours and graphics across the segment, there’s a lot to love about the 2025 Grizzly lineup: Grizzly 700 EPS SE and Grizzly 700 EPS.

FARMING SCOTLAND MAGAZINE

Next issue out January 2025

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Diagnosis cyflym o TB – ymchwilwyr i ddatblygu

Mae ymchwilwyr o Gymru wedi derbyn cyllid gwerth bron i £1.2 miliwn i ddatblygu synhwyrydd newydd ar gyfer twbercwlosis mewn pobl ac anifeiliaid a all roi canlyniad ymhen yr awr.

Bydd y dechnoleg yn ddigon syml i unrhyw weithiwr gofal iechyd neu filfeddyg ei ddefnyddio. Bydd yn fwy penodol a mwy sensitif na’r dulliau presennol ynghyd â sylweddol gyflymach na phrofion eraill.

Wedi’i gefnogi gan UKRI, mae’r prosiect yn dwyn ynghyd arbenigwyr ym maes twbercwlosis, meddygaeth filfeddygol, microbioleg, a pheirianneg microdon a ffotoneg, i ddatblygu ateb newydd i’r broblem iechyd byd-eang hon.

Mae TB yn un o brif achosion dioddefaint a marwolaeth mewn pobl ac anifeiliaid ledled y byd a dyma’r ail brif haint sy’n lladd pobl ar ôl COVID-19. Ar hyn o bryd mae tua 10 miliwn o heintiau TB dynol yn cael eu cofnodi bob blwyddyn, gyda chyfradd marwolaeth o 1.8 miliwn y flwyddyn.

Mae diffyg diagnosis cywir a chyflym, yn enwedig mewn gwledydd tlotach, yn aml yn arwain at ddiagnosis anghywir a thriniaeth aneffeithiol o gleifion TB.

Dywedodd yr Athro Glyn Hewinson, Cadeirydd ymchwil Sêr Cymru yn y Ganolfan Ragoriaeth ar gyfer TB Buchol ym Mhrifysgol Aberystwyth:

“Gall effaith TB fod yn ddinistriol, ac felly bydd datblygu ffordd o wneud diagnosis yn gyflym yn gwneud gwahaniaeth mawr. Mae dod â’r epidemig TB dynol i ben

synhwyrydd newydd

erbyn 2050 yn nod datblygu cynaliadwy’r Cenhedloedd

Unedig, ac mae datblygu profion diagnostig cyflym mwy effeithiol yn argymhelliad allweddol gan Sefydliad Iechyd y Byd. Rydym ni’n edrych ymlaen at weithio gyda’n cydweithwyr yng

Nghaerdydd er mwyn gwneud cynnydd yn y maes ymchwil pwysig hwn.”

Mae nifer uchel yr achosion o TB mewn gwartheg mewn rhannau o’r DU yn cael effaith fawr ar fywoliaeth a lles ffermwyr. Mae goruchwyliaeth, profion diagnostig, difa moch daear a brechu yn costio cyfanswm o £100 miliwn y flwyddyn i lywodraeth y DU yn unig.

Dywedodd cyd-arweinydd y prosiect, Yr Athro Les Baillie, Athro Microbioleg yn yr Ysgol

Fferylliaeth a’r Gwyddorau

Fferyllol ym Mhrifysgol

Caerdydd:

“Mae twbercwlosis yn broblem benodol i ffermwyr yng Nghymru sydd wedi colli gwartheg o ganlyniad i TB buchol ledled y wlad. Mae diagnosis o gamau cynnar yr haint yn heriol oherwydd diffyg profion cyflym a chywir.

“Er mwyn mynd i’r afael â hyn, rydyn ni’n gweithio gyda chydweithwyr o Brifysgol Aberystwyth i ddatblygu prawf mewn amser real sy’n gallu canfod presenoldeb y pathogen mewn samplau clinigol ac amgylcheddol.”

Bydd arbenigwyr Aberystwyth yn arwain ar ddatblygu a gwerthuso dyfais optegol a fydd am y tro cyntaf yn ceisio datrys problemau gydag amhureddau a sensitifrwydd sampl.

Dywedodd yr Athro

Nigel Copner, Pennaeth yr Ysgol Fusnes ac Arweinydd Academaidd yr Uned Beirianneg ym Mhrifysgol Aberystwyth:

“Mae PCR yn cynnig y safon aur wrth ganfod pathogenau ond mae angen prosesu arbennig ar gyfer sensitifrwydd uchel. Fodd bynnag, mae’r rhan fwyaf o ddulliau canfod yn cael trafferth gydag amhureddau sampl.

“Gan ddefnyddio’r technegau a gafodd eu datblygu yng Nghaerdydd, mae’r tîm ffotoneg ym Mhrifysgol Aberystwyth wedi arloesi dull sy’n caniatáu sensitifrwydd uchel i ganfod samplau ar y safle heb fod angen puro sy’n cymryd llawer o amser. Os bydd yn llwyddiannus, bydd y dechneg newydd hon yn caniatáu am y tro cyntaf sensitifrwydd yn agos at lefel PCR ar adeg cymryd y sampl, gan drawsnewid y ffordd y gellir rheoli pandemigau pathogen.”

Bydd buddsoddiad pellach yn y prosiect yn caniatáu lleihau ei faint a’i gost i greu synhwyrydd syml, cost isel. Bydd gwledydd sy’n datblygu yn elwa ar hyn yn arbennig.

Mae modd addasu’r platfform yn hawdd i ganfod y rhan fwyaf o bathogenau eraill, gan gynnwys SARS-CoV-2 ac MRSA, felly gallai ddod yn offeryn pwysig i helpu i reoli lledaeniad pandemig arall yn y dyfodol.

Mae’r prosiect wedi’i ariannu gan gynllun peilot dull ymatebol cyngor ymchwil UKRI (CRCRM), sy’n cefnogi syniadau rhyngddisgyblaethol newydd a chreadigol sy’n dod i’r amlwg o gymuned ymchwil y DU. Mae’r prosiect wedi derbyn £1,199,669 ac mae’n un o 36 prosiect sydd wedi’i ariannu gan gynllun CRCRM UKRI gwerth £32.4 miliwn.

Ffermio Cymru

Ymweld ag Ein Ffermydd Cyswllt Ffermio:

Arddangosiad o Ragoriaeth Amaethyddol

Mae Cyswllt Ffermio wedi cwblhau cyfres lwyddiannus o 15 o deithiau o amgylch y fferm trwy gydol mis Medi, gan arddangos arferion rheoli tir yn gynaliadwy (SLM) trwy dreialon ac arddangosiadau ar y fferm.

Denodd y digwyddiadau hyn, a gynhaliwyd ledled Cymru, dros 1,030 o fynychwyr a chafwyd gwell darlun o’r treialon gan 66 o siaradwyr arbenigol.

Roedd y teithiau o amgylch y fferm yn gyfle unigryw i ffermwyr ddysgu oddi wrth eu cyfoedion a dysgu gan ystod eang o 66 o siaradwyr gwahanol. Cynhaliwyd digwyddiadau ar draws pob sector gan gynnwys garddwriaeth, cig coch, llaeth, âr, a ffermio cymysg, gyda ffocws cryf ar fanteision arferion cynaliadwy a thechnolegau arloesol.

Cynhaliodd pymtheg fferm, a oedd yn cymryd rhan yn rhwydwaith Ein Ffermydd Cyswllt Ffermio, y digwyddiadau. Rhannodd y siaradwyr, a oedd yn gweithio’n agos gyda’r ffermydd hyn ar eu prosiectau unigol, wybodaeth a phrofiadau gwerthfawr.

Yn ogystal, gwahoddwyd sefydliadau amaethyddol megis

Partneriaeth Diogelwch Fferm Cymru, Arwain DGC a Plantlife i ymuno â’r digwyddiadau i arddangos eu prosiectau a thrafod gyda ffermwyr.

Nododd Ceinwen Parry o Tir Dewi gynnydd yn nifer yr ymholiadau yn dilyn y digwyddiadau, gan amlygu eu heffaith gadarnhaol ar ymgysylltiad â ffermwyr, gan ddangos sut y gall y digwyddiadau hyn gael effaith barhaol ar ffermwyr, ymhell ar ôl i’r digwyddiadau ddod i ben.

Mynegodd Siwan Howatson, pennaeth technegol Cyswllt Ffermio, ei diolch i’r ffermwyr a gymerodd ran.

“I ffermwyr Ein Ffermydd, rydym yn hynod ddiolchgar am eich holl waith yn paratoi ar gyfer y digwyddiadau hyn ac am eich ymrwymiad i’r treialon ar y fferm hyd yma.”

Eglurodd Siwan mai nod pob digwyddiad oedd rhannu gwybodaeth ymhlith ffermwyr.

“Diolch hefyd i’r holl fynychwyr, rydym yn gobeithio eich bod wedi dysgu rhywbeth

newydd neu wedi cael syniadau newydd i’w datblygu ar eich ffermydd eich hun.”

Mynegodd y mynychwyr frwdfrydedd dros natur addysgiadol y digwyddiadau, gyda llawer yn nodi bod y cyfle i rwydweithio ag unigolion o’r un anian o fudd sylweddol. Rhannodd un ffermwr, a fynychodd y digwyddiad ar fferm Cwmcowddu y bydd o bosibl yn rhoi newidiadau ar waith ar ei fferm yn dilyn y wybodaeth a rannwyd yn ystod y digwyddiad.

“Efallai y byddaf yn newid ein system borfa, ac yn ailystyried fy nefnydd o dail? Diwrnod da, mae Cwmcoddu yn fferm arbennig.”

Drwy gydol yr holl ddigwyddiadau, pwysleisiodd staff Cyswllt Ffermio fod yr holl wasanaethau yr oedd y ffermwyr a oedd yn cynnal y digwyddiadau wedi’u defnyddio hefyd ar gael i bob ffermwr sydd wedi cofrestru gyda Cyswllt Ffermio.

Ar hyn o bryd, mae gan Cyswllt Ffermio ystod o gyfleoedd yn ymwneud â menter ar y cyd ar gael i unigolion sydd am fentro i redeg eu busnes coedwigaeth neu fferm eu hunain. I gael rhestr o gyfleoedd, gan gynnwys lleoliad, tir, da byw a math o gytundeb, cysylltwch â Cyswllt Ffermio ar 03456 000 813.

Arbrawf codlysiau yn helpu i lywio uchelgeisiau

caffael bwyd yn y sector cyhoeddus

Bydd y gwersi a ddysgwyd yn dilyn y tymor cyntaf o dyfu codlysiau a rhywogaethau gwenith treftadaeth ar fferm yn Sir Gâr yn helpu i lywio penderfyniadau ynglŷn â sut y gall ffermwyr a thyfwyr gynhyrchu mwy o fwyd ar gyfer cyflenwadau lleol.

Fel rhan o’r rhwydwaith Ein Ffermydd, mae Cyswllt Ffermio wedi ariannu arbrawf cynhyrchu codlysiau ar raddfa cae ar Fferm Bremenda Isaf, daliad 40 hectar sy’n eiddo i’r Cyngor Sir yn Llanarthne.

Yma, mae partneriaeth Bwyd Sir Gâr yn tyfu bwyd i’w gaffael gan y sector cyhoeddus.

Yn ystod diwrnod agored

Cyswllt Ffermio ar y fferm yn ddiweddar, a gynhaliwyd gan gydlynydd y bartneriaeth, Augusta Lewis, a’r prif dyfwr, Piers Lunt, bu cynhyrchwyr bwyd eraill yn dysgu am yr hyn sydd wedi bod yn llwyddiannus - a’r hyn sydd heb fod mor llwyddiannus - yn ystod y tymor cyntaf.

Cyflwynwyd yr arbrawf

Cyswllt Ffermio i edrych sut y gellid tyfu protein yn lleol i gyflenwi’r sector cyhoeddus, megis mewn ysgolion a chartrefi gofal.

Mae gwaith o ail-ddylunio bwydlenni gan Gyngor Sir Gâr

yn edrych ar ffynonellau bwyd a chynaliadwyedd, ac yn amnewid eitemau y gellid eu cynhyrchu’n

fwy lleol ac yn gynaliadwy, gan gynnwys protein planhigion, lle bo hynny’n bosibl.

“Rydym ni eisiau dangos ein bod yn gallu cynhyrchu’r plât ‘bwyta’n dda’ yn Sir Gâr, ein bod yn gallu cynhyrchu a phrosesu protein o ansawdd uchel a chnydau grawn

da wedi’u haddasu i’n hinsawdd, a thyfu ffrwythau a llysiau. Os gallwn ni wneud hynny ar un fferm, gall ffermwyr eraill wneud yr un fath,” meddai Augusta.

Gyda chymorth Gwasanaeth Cynghori Cyswllt Ffermio, cwblhawyd Cynllun Rheoli Maetholion ar fferm Bremenda Isaf i ganfod statws maeth y pridd ar y fferm hon a fu’n fferm dda byw yn y gorffennol.

“Mae’n bwysig iawn i gael y ddealltwriaeth honno o’r cychwyn cyntaf,’’ meddai Augusta. Ffermio Cymru

Myfyrwyr nyrsio milfeddygol cyntaf yn

dechrau yn Aberystwyth

Mae’r garfan gyntaf o fyfyrwyr nyrsio milfeddygol wedi dechrau ar eu cwrs yn unig Ysgol Gwyddor Filfeddygol Cymru.

Mae’r cwrs newydd yn nodi’r ehangiad diweddaraf i’r addysgu ym Mhrifysgol Aberystwyth.

Fel rhan o’r radd sylfaen mewn Nyrsio Milfeddygol, bydd y myfyrwyr yn astudio’r sgiliau sydd eu hangen o’r diwrnod cyntaf er mwyn gofalu am ystod o anifeiliaid bach a rhai mawr.

Mae’r cwrs yn cyfuno dysgu agweddau theori ac ymarferol, ac yn cynnwys lleoliad gwaith am flwyddyn mewn milfeddygfa sy’n rhan annatod o’r rhaglen.

Bydd y myfyrwyr yn elwa ar adnoddau’r Brifysgol,

gan gynnwys labordy sgiliau clinigol, labordai ymchwil ac anatomeg, canolfan geffylau ar gyfer dysgu, a ffermydd y Brifysgol. Mae ffug-glinig milfeddygol newydd wedi cael ei ddatblygu hefyd a bydd yn caniatáu i fyfyrwyr baratoi ar gyfer lleoliadau clinigol mewn gofod ymarfer.

Mae myfyrwyr wedi bod yn astudio i fod yn filfeddygon ym Mhrifysgol Aberystwyth ers mis Medi 2021, wedi buddsoddiad o dros £2 filiwn mewn cyfleusterau newydd.

Yn rhan allweddol o’r Ysgol, cafodd Canolfan Addysg Milfeddygaeth newydd Aberystwyth ei hagor yn swyddogol ym mis Rhagfyr 2021 gan y Brenin Charles III. Dywedodd yr Athro Darrell Abernethy, Pennaeth Ysgol Gwyddor Filfeddygol Prifysgol

Aberystwyth:

“Mae’n fendigedig croesawu’r myfyrwyr nyrsio milfeddygol cyntaf yma - rwy’n siŵr y byddan nhw’n mwynhau eu hastudiaethau yma. Mae’n ddiwrnod i gofio ac i ddathlu i ni yma yn Aberystwyth.

Y ffermwr defaid Richard Wilding yn croesawu dysgu gydol oes ar gyfer

dyfodol mwy effeithlon a chynaliadwy

Richard Wilding, ffermwr defaid ucheldir o Lanandras, oedd enillydd Gwobr Dysgwr y Flwyddyn Cyswllt Ffermio yn y categori 40 oed ac iau yng Ngwobrau Lantra Cymru a gynhaliwyd yn ôl ym mis Ionawr.

Dychwelodd Richard, sy’n ffermio mewn partneriaeth â’i dad, i ffermio defaid yn llawn amser yng nghanol ei 20au ar ôl gweithio i asiantaeth y llywodraeth am chwe blynedd. Dilynwyd hynny gan daith waith 18 mis i ffermydd mawr yn

Awstralia a Seland Newydd.

Dychwelodd i Gymru mewn pryd i ddod o hyd i waith yn ystod

tymor wyna 2013, a sefydlodd fusnes bugeilio contract yn fuan, a sefydlodd ei ddiadell ei hun ar y fferm deuluol lle mae bellach yn ffermio mewn partneriaeth â’i dad.

Fodd bynnag, oherwydd nad oedd wedi astudio amaethyddiaeth ar ôl yr ysgol, teimlai Richard fod bylchau yn ei set sgiliau ac aeth ati i unioni’r fantol drwy Cyswllt Ffermio.

“Gwnes i gwrs magu a rheoli lloi yn ddiweddar, gan ein bod ni wedi bod yn edrych ar fagu lloi fel menter arallgyfeirio.

Rwyf hefyd wedi cwblhau’r cwrs Offer Chwistrellu wedi’i

Osod ar Gerbyd. Rydyn ni’n tyfu betys porthiant yma ar y fferm

sy’n gnwd dwys i’w dyfu gan ddefnyddio’r offer chwistrellu sawl gwaith o bosibl. Mae gallu gwneud y gwaith chwistrellu fy hun wedi golygu fy mod i’n gallu bod yn llawer mwy cywir o ran amseriad y chwistrellau. Y gobaith yw y bydd byn yn golygu y galla i gynhyrchu cnwd gwell a lleihau porthiant dwysfwyd

ychwanegol,” meddai Richard. Mae Richard yn rhoi’r clod i’r rhaglen Cyswllt Ffermio, sydd wedi ei helpu i ddysgu sgiliau newydd a gwella’r rhai presennol.

Dywedodd y beirniaid yng Ngwobrau Lantra Cymru fod chwant amlwg Richard am ddysgu a’i benderfyniad i ddatblygu sgiliau ychwanegol mewn meysydd megis costau cynhyrchu, rheoli glaswelltir a da byw, cadwraeth, rheoli coetir a charbon, yn dangos ymrwymiad rhagorol i ddatblygiad personol, sy’n golygu ei fod yn enillydd teilwng iawn y wobr Dysgwr y Flwyddyn hon.

WORLD FARMING

Bigger and smarter investments in small-scale agriculture are key to build a prosperous Africa

“Our first line of action against climate change, hunger and poverty is prosperous rural communities. Investing in small-scale farmers and rural entrepreneurs is the most effective way to unlock the immense potential of Africa’s agriculture and food systems for all,” said Alvaro Lario, President of the UN’s International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) heading to the G7 Agriculture Ministers meeting starting in Syracuse recently.

The meeting will kick off with an unprecedented G7 Agriculture Forum for Africa - an innovation of the G7 Italian presidency - to continue to foster a dialogue between G7 and African nations on the opportunities and challenges in Africa’s agriculture sector.

“In Africa, food insecurity and climate change are damaging opportunities for the millions of young people entering the job market. Developing thriving rural economies that provide good food and decent jobs has a stabilizing power. Now is the time to invest at scale in Africa’s small-scale food producers - the backbone of Africa’s food security and development,” said Lario.

Small-scale farming supplies up to 70% of the food in Africa and provides livelihood opportunities to hundreds of millions of people, playing a pivotal role in the continent’s food security. Food and agriculture are also a vital part of African economies, a sector expected to be worth a

trillion dollars by 2030. Estimates show that economic growth in agriculture is two to three times more effective at reducing poverty and food insecurity than growth generated in other sectors.

At the G7, President Lario will advocate for investment and policies that prioritize sustainable agriculture practices, support farmers to adapt to climate change and build resilience. Crop yields are expected to decrease by up to 25% by the end of the century due to the effects of climate change.

With millions of young people entering the job market every year in Africa, President Lario will also emphasize that digitization, “green skills” and technologies and access to finance can make rural areas more appealing to youth, and help them to create small businesses along food value chains.

President Lario will therefore call for more effective investments in innovations and digital technologies and connectivity as a game changer in efforts to transform rural areas. Connectivity enables farmers to better access crucial information on markets and weather, receive agriculture advice and pest or weather alerts, and access e-wallets and financial services.

With donor countries’ support to agricultural development stagnant at just 4-6% of total official development assistance over the last decade, and many African countries facing financial constraints, President Lario will

highlight the need to innovate, and further develop and strengthen de-risking mechanisms to attract investments from the private sector, an approach that IFAD is pursuing.

IFAD has committed to investing in rural people in Africa to transform the agriculture sector

and promote rural development. In its 2025-2027 project cycle up to 60% of IFAD’s core financing will be invested in the continent. In Africa, 20% of the population – or one in five - is undernourished or suffers from hunger, affecting a total of approximately 300 million people.

Sweco to design new kind of mycoprotein plant in Finland

Finnish biotech start-up company Enifer has awarded Sweco a new contract to establish a new plant for the industrial production of mycoprotein. Production starts in 2026, and the plant will be

the world’s first to utilise side streams from food production on a commercial scale in an industrial symbiosis. Sweco will deliver services for project management, plant design,

WORLD FARMING

building permits, procurement and construction management in a project valued at EUR 4.2 million.

Mycoprotein is a highquality, fungus-based protein source and is used in the food industry as a sustainable substitute for meat. Mycoprotein is derived from the mycelium (“root network”) of fungi that is grown in fermentation tanks.

Enifer’s new plant aims to produce 3 million kilos of mycoprotein per year, which would cover the annual protein needs of 40,000 people. As Enifer’s Engineering, Procurement and Construction Management (EPCM) partner, Sweco is responsible for the overall design, building permission processes, procurement services, project management and construction management of the new plant.

“Sweco is excited to be involved in enabling the food revolution, where domestic protein production that utilises side streams will reduce emissions from food production. Enifer’s production concept enables efficient protein production based on a circular economy, and we are grateful for the trust in our EPCM expertise. Our experience in food sector

licensing will ensure fast implementation of this project,” says Thomas Hietto, Business Area President of Sweco Finland.

The plant will be built at the existing sugar manufacturing premises and will utilise the existing steam, electricity, process and cooling water, and wastewater treatment available in the area. In addition, raw materials from sugar and dairy production side streams will also be utilised.

“Our process concept for manufacturing mycoprotein is new and we have a lot to do in a limited amount of time. Finding a reliable EPCM partner was vital to the success of our project. The production facility will be built in existing premises, which encourages us to develop new solutions. As a start-up company, we have limited resources at our disposal, and we found Sweco to be an efficient and productive partner to achieve an industrial symbiosis where we maximise the use of food industry side streams,” says Simo Ellilä, CEO of Enifer.

Mycoprotein has not previously been produced from food industry side streams using this kind of production method, and has only been used to refine feed protein from forest industry side streams.

The Agriculture Knowledge Transfer and Innovation Fund grants support projects to increase farming skills, tackle environmental impacts and enhance competitiveness in food production

By Agriculture Minister Jim Fairlie

The most recent round of awards – with more than £300,000 funding – went to projects including a skills development programme for staff working with livestock in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, a course to help crofters, and promoting learning about the benefits of calving intervals on the Isle of Bute.

Another project is looking at helping potato growers in Angus, Fife and East Lothian become more productive and sustainable, while reducing their impact on the environment/biodiversity.

Our support will also help the Royal Countryside Fund expand the Farm Resilience Programme to support an additional 80 -100 harder to reach family farm businesses in four locations across Scotland.

FARMING SCOTLAND

Next issue out January 2025

Subscription page 15 & 114

These grants are a way to help farmers and crofters continue learning and skills development to improve their businesses, resource efficiency, environmental performance and sustainability.

It supports the sector to realise the wealth of innovation and skills within it and find practical ways to share on-farm improvements with the wider community.

The seven projects backed this time around will also help farmers and crofters access resources and develop skills in areas that build towards our targets to reach net zero and better manage resources.

The success of this funding scheme is down to the hard work and insight of people all across the country, looking at what has worked for them and how they can share what they have learned.

What has impressed me particularly this time around is the mix of in-person opportunities and reaching out online to reach even more people.

I want to thank everyone who applied this year for their diverse and inspired proposals, their continued engagement with the scheme and look forward to seeing the results of all those we have been able to support this time around.

science & technology

Tools to help drive for a more profitable and sustainable farming future

Want to know more about the next generation farm management system or how to optimise SFI options on your farm? How effective are your soils at nutrient cycling and how can this affect inputs?

These are some of the most challenging topics in UK arable farming and growers across the country are looking for solutions that fit their farm businesses.

Visit the Hutchinsons stand at Croptec where industry leading experts will be on hand to discuss any or all these topics, as well as offering an insight into what services and technologies are available to address these issues.

The Omnia EasyPlan upgrade represents a major digital leap forward in crop production which confirms Omnia as the most advanced and easy-to-use farm management system. Offering an exciting set of developments

allowing for complete paperless record keeping and work management, this new standard for farm management technology in the UK is now available to both Hutchinsons and non-Hutchinsons customers alike. Visit the stand to see first-hand how Omnia can work for you.

Questions about SFI? It’s important to remember that success in any agri environment scheme comes from fitting the scheme around the farm rather than the farm around the scheme and being realistic with desired outcomes. Come and chat to our environmental experts on how best to do this on your farm or to find out more about the latest functionality added to the Omnia digital farming platform designed to support farmers in efficiently managing and recording Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) actions.

Need to know more about your soils? Soil health is widely recognised as a cornerstone of sustainable farming systems. However, it is key to understand your soil before making any significant structural or operational changes or reduce inputs. Come and chat to us

about how to get the most accurate and repeatable soil mapping available through TerraMap and how this can be aligned this with the most comprehensive soil analysis to give an unrivalled soil nutritional and management service, TerraMap Gold.

Farmers with their fingers on the pulse help to steer the future of agricultural science

The impact on farming of Artificial Intelligence, methane, carbon sequestration, regenerative systems, financing, and antimicrobial resistance, are some of the issues that farmers and growers would like researchers to investigate, according to a new report launched today.

The report - which draws on conversations with almost 100 farmers and growers during a series of workshops - shows that,

while some research priorities such as soil health and disease control have stayed consistent since the last major review in 2013, a whole wave of new themes have now risen to the fore.

Professor Tom MacMillan, Elizabeth Creak Chair at the Royal Agricultural University, and a director of the Centre for Effective Innovation in Agriculture (CEIA) which led the work, said: “These research

and innovation needs were gathered from a great diversity of farming businesses across the UK.

“They paint a picture of an industry with its finger on the pulse, very engaged with latest ideas and technologies, from AI to agroforestry, yet also profoundly practical.”

Launched by the NFU, Innovate UK, and CEIA, the Centre for Effective Innovation in Agriculture, the report reveals

the challenges that farmers and growers want researchers to prioritise solving.

Participants at the workshops, which were organised over the last year by six farming and research organisations, shared 797 challenges and needs. This is the first time farmers and growers have been invited to help set the research agenda at this scale since the NFU and other partners published Feeding the Future report in 2013.

Robert Neill, AgriScot Chairman

Welcome to this years’ Preview of AgriScot 2024

By Robert Neill, AgriScot Chairman

For over two decades, AgriScot has held its place as a key date in the agricultural calendar, championing the farm business sector by bringing together new products, services, and guidance for every farming discipline. As we gather again this year, we recognise the ever-increasing challenges facing the industry - from rising costs and shifting weather patterns to an uncertain political landscape. AgriScot continues to be here for the industry, offering solutions and insights to support farmers as they navigate this complex environment.

We’re excited about the mix of innovation and practical information our seminars, trade stands, demonstrations, and awards will bring to the 2024 event. New for this year, highlights include a pre-event breakfast with Farmstrong Scotland’s new wellbeing initiative for farmers and crofters, and live demonstrations of the Te Pari sheep handling system from New Zealand.

With 240 trade stands, including 20 new exhibitors offering the latest in renewable energy technology, feeding equipment, and carbon auditing, there are plenty of opportunities to find new ideas and make valuable connections. You can view the full exhibitor listing on the AgriScot website and plan your visit to make the most of what’s on offer.

Whether you’re exploring the latest technologies, learning from industry experts, or engaging with fellow farmers, I hope AgriScot 2024 provides you with valuable takeaways to enhance your business. If you’re looking for something to listen to en route, tune into the AgriScot Talking Business podcast, where industry leaders discuss topics from succession planning and land ownership to financial management and wellbeing. I’d like to extend my sincere thanks to our sponsors, exhibitors, and the many businesses whose support is vital to making this event possible. Join us on November 13th at the Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston, and make the most of this opportunity to connect, learn, and discover all that AgriScot has to offer.

General event information

AgriScot takes place on Wednesday 13th November at the Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston. Farmstrong’s pre-event breakfast begins at 8.30am, with exhibition doors opening at 9.00am and closing at 5.30pm. It is located within walking distance of Edinburgh airport, and just a short distance by tram from Edinburgh City Centre and mainline rail networks. If travelling by road, car parking is free.

For those wishing to make the most of their visit to Edinburgh, a range of budget and premium hotels are located next to the venue, including a Moxy, Travelodge, Holiday Inn Express, Premier Inn, Hilton by Hampton, Hilton Doubletree and Norton House Hotel.

To find out more about AgriScot visit www.agriscot. com.

Register for express, free entry

AgriScot has announced an exciting new partnership with ADM Agriculture for the 2024 event, offering delegates free, express entry on November 13th.

Pre-registered attendees will also have the chance to enter a free competition, supported by ADM

Agriculture, to win either £500 worth of liquid fertiliser or a free upgrade from straight nitrogen to an enhanced nitrogen load with an inhibitor, in partnership with Nitrasol Fertilisers.

ADM Agriculture provides a people-focused, quality service

to farmers and consumers, emphasising prompt payment, timely collection, and product delivery. In addition to an integrated supply chain for ADM’s UK milling and oilseed crushing assets, they offer a full range of non-grain feed

AgriScot Timetable

ingredients for feed and fuel markets, along with an extensive selection of seeds and fertilisers.

To secure your ticket with complimentary parking, preregister today at www.agriscot. co.uk.com.

8.30am

9.15am

10.30am Demonstration : Automated Sheep Handling Demo with Upland The Sheep Game’s Cammy Wilson and Sponsored by Te Pari

11.30am Demonstration: Beef Demonstration – Is two-year calving right for your farm?

11.30am Seminar : How to invest and grow in economic uncertainty (with Finance for Farms) Upper Foyer Room 1

Time Event Location

12.00pm AgriScot Scottish Farm of the Year Presentations Show Ring

• Scottish Arable Farm of the Year – Sponsored by SoilEssentials and Supported by AHDB

• Scottish Dairy Farm of the Year – Sponsored by GEA

• Scotch Beef Farm of the Year – Sponsored by ABP and Supported by QMS

• Scottish Sheep Farm of the Year – Sponsored by Rumenco and Supported by QMS

• Scottish Diversified Farm of the Year – Sponsored by SAC Consulting

• Scottish Sustainable Farm of the Year – Sponsored by Virgin Money and Supported by Scottish Land & Estates

• Scottish Mixed Farm of the Year – Sponsored by Thorntons and Supported by NFUS

• Business Skills Competition Results Announced – Sponsored by NFU Mutual

12.15pm Seminar: Grain Market Outlook at AgriScot: Malting barley markets – a look ahead (with AHDB)

12.30pm RSABI Annual General Meeting

2

1.00pm Dairy Competition – Judging of the country’s top dairy cattle continues. Show Ring

1.00pm Seminar: Scottish Dairy Hub & Kite Consultancy Dairy Panel Debate

1.30pm Seminar: Electrical Infrastructure Upgrades:

Foyer Your essential guide to protecting your land and business (with Davidson & Robertson)

2

2.00pm Demonstration: Automated Sheep Handling Demo with Nicola Wordie and Sponsored by Te Pari Upland Hall

2.15pm Seminar: AHDB and QMS Environmental Baselining Project

Foyer Room 1

2.30pm Best Stall Award Presentation – Sponsored by Fullwoodhead Dairy Supplies Show Ring

2.45pm Seminar: Challenges and possible solutions for dealing with

Cryptosporidiosis in Cattle and Sheep (with Moredun)

3.15pm Dairy Classes Prize Presentations – SuperCow announced. Show Ring

3.30pm Seminar: Deluge and Drought: climate change, water scarcity and Upper Foyer excess variability (with the James Hutton Institute) Room 1

5.30pm Doors Close

Te Pari demonstration - Revolutionising Sheep Handling

Brand new for AgriScot 2024, the cutting-edge Te Pari sheep handling system from New Zealand is set to make its debut with two live demonstrations, showcasing how its automated technology simplifies all aspects of sheep handling. From drenching, drafting, and weighing to crutching and routine tasks, the Te Pari system aims to revolutionise sheep farming by taking the hard graft out of traditional handling, making it easier and safer to handle sheep especially single handedly, as well as reducing costs.

The first 45-minute session will feature Cammy Wilson, wellknown for The Sheep Game, who will share his experiences with the Racewell Sheep Handler, focusing specifically on animal treatments.

Joined by Te Pari’s Product Specialist, Giles Devenish, Cammy will demonstrate how the system optimises dosage for significant financial savings, improves animal health, and reduces the physical demands of sheep drenching.

In the second session, Aberdeenshire farmer Nicola Wordie (@Livestock_FarmHer)

will discuss how the Racewell Sheep Handler has enhanced decision-making on her farm. Alongside Te Pari’s Elliot Bailey, she’ll explain how the Macrostock Weigh Scale assists her in managing her flock more efficiently, making the system an invaluable tool when it comes to day-to-day operations and profitability.

Giles Devenish commented, “We spend a lot of time on-farm hosting demonstrations and engaging with customers, but the hustle and bustle of events like AgriScot is a fantastic change.

With growing demand for automated handling equipment, more farmers are recognising the benefits these systems offer. We’re excited to bring the Racewell to AgriScot 2024, where we’ll delve into its potential for time and labour savings, as well as animal welfare and return on investment.”

The Barclay Brothers from This Farming Life will assist with both sessions. Don’t miss the first demonstration at 10:30 am, with the second session starting at 2:00 pm.

The AgriScot 2024 seminar programme is a cornerstone of the farm business event in November, offering a platform for knowledge exchange, technical updates, and innovative solutions. Alongside the main ring demonstrations, competitions and extensive trade exhibition - featuring over 240 stands – the seminars exist to provide farmers and stakeholders with useful insights to help navigate the future of Scottish farming.

As with previous years, the 2024 seminar programme will be held across two rooms in the Upper Foyer of the Highland

Seminar Programme

Hall. Throughout the day, a broad spectrum of topics will be covered, including livestock health, environmental strategies, finance management, crop innovation, and how to protect your land when impacted by statutory infrastructure upgrades. The sessions will feature prominent speakers and organisations, making it a rich resource for anyone involved in agriculture. And for those who can’t make it on the day, the seminars will be livestreamed and available for watchback after AgriScot.

Read on to find out more about the full seminar programme.

Seminar Room 1:

Engaging Debates and Industry Insights

NFU Scotland: Head-to-Head Debate and Q&A Session – 10:00 am to 11:00 am

The keynote session is the muchanticipated debate between Cabinet Secretary Mairi Gougeon and NFUS President Martin Kennedy, facilitated by AgriScot Chair, Robert Neill. This session encourages robust discussion on critical industry matters, such as policy developments, climate adaptation and market pressures. Attendees are encouraged to participate in the Q&A, voicing their concerns and questions to these two leading figures in Scottish agriculture.

Commenting on the event, Mr Kennedy said, “NFU Scotland is proud to support the AgriScot Farm Business Event and contribute towards the seminar programme while providing the audience with the opportunity to participate and put their questions to the panel.”

Finance for Farms: Future-Proof Your Farm: Alternative Finance Options When Mainstream Funding Falls Short – 11:30 am to 12:30 pm

With access to mainstream banks and lending becoming increasingly

restricted, farmers face mounting challenges in accessing the financial support needed to grow or diversify their operations. In this session, Charlie Craddock of Finance for Farms (Shire Leasing’s agricultural finance division) will provide a market overview before presenting alternative financing options. He’ll dispel myths and discuss how finance can be used to invest in assets beyond just land and machinery - like livestock and diversification projects - to unlock the full potential of your farm and secure a sustainable future.

“We’re excited to be back at AgriScot, showcasing how our tailored finance solutions can help farmers tackle financial challenges and affordably pursue new growth opportunities,” says Mr Craddock. “It’s a fantastic event for connecting with the farming community, and I’m looking forward to catching up with both new and familiar faces.”

The Scottish Dairy Hub and Kite Consulting: Dairy Panel Debate – 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm

The ever-popular Scottish Dairy Hub and Kite Consulting panel returns, focusing on the opportunities and challenges

within Scotland’s dairy sector. Co-chaired by David Keiley of Kite Consulting and Tracey Roan of NFU Scotland Dairy Policy & Scottish Dairy Hub, the session offers a critical outlook on the short and long-term prospects for dairy farmers.

Ms Roan shares, “As in previous years, there will be an opportunity for dairy farmers and stakeholders to bring along their probing questions for the panel and listen to the latest market intel, something we feel is an integral part of the session.”

With dairy markets in constant flux, this panel discussion will provide an essential forum for farmers to discuss market trends, supply chain issues, and strategies for maintaining profitability.

QMS and AHDB: Environmental Baselining Project – 2:15 pm to 3:15 pm

Recognising that agriculture can lead the way in environmental sustainability, this session will see Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) and the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) introduce their pioneering Environmental Baselining Project.

The “industry-first” initiative aims to measure the positive environmental impact of Scottish farms, and farms across the UK, providing essential data on emissions, soil health, and carbon storage so ultimately farmers can gain the full value and integrity of their environmental work.

Providing further insight on what to expect, Bruce McConachie, Head of Industry Development at QMS, explains, “Our Environmental Baselining project will work with the scientific community and producers to build an understanding of the potential of farms and how farming businesses deliver environmental good, alongside productive, profitable businesses.”

The James Hutton Institute: Deluge and Drought: Climate Change, Water Scarcity and Excess Variability – 3:30 pm to 4:30 pm

Climate change is shifting Scotland’s weather patterns, with more variable rainfall and higher temperatures. Future projections suggest increased risks of both ‘deluge and drought,’ even within the

same season. This session will explore the implications of these changes for Scottish agriculture, focusing on spring and summer water scarcity, winter flooding risks, and saturated soils. Using visual data, the presentation will provide insights into Scotland’s future water balance and climate extremes, offering a ‘Science

of Foresight’ approach to help farmers plan and adapt to these challenges.

Dr. Rivington remarks, “It’s a privilege to present to the

farming community through AgriScot, showcasing research that can help farmers adapt to climate change and secure their supply chains.”

Seminar Room 2: A Closer Look at Emerging Issues

Farmstrong Breakfast: Better Wellbeing, Better Business –8:30 am to 9:30 am Kicking off the seminars in Room 2 is an early morning session focused on the personal side of farming. John Kerr and Nicola Wordie will share their experiences in managing the highs and lows of farm life, providing valuable advice on achieving a healthier worklife balance. This session will resonate with those looking for routes to improve mental and physical well-being in the demanding and often allconsuming agricultural world.

Agrii: Maize in Scotland – An Untapped Resource? – 11:00 am to 12:00 pm Could maize become a viable crop for Scottish farmers, now and in the future? This session, led by Agrii’s Ben Lowe, explores the potential for maize as a homegrown forage crop, taking into account changing weather patterns and advancements in plant breeding. The session will explore how maize could fit within your

farming system, the environmental considerations and rotational benefits, as well as variety selection and crop management.

Lowe notes, “We are proud to be supporting AgriScot once again and the growers we work with on a daily basis. I believe the seminar will provide yet another thought-provoking opportunity to ‘look outside of the box’ together. Maize won’t be an option for everyone but could be a solution for many.”

AHDB: Grain Market Outlook: Malting barley markets – a look ahead – 12:15 pm to 1:15 pm

In this first-of-its-kind session, AHDB, Boortmalt, and Scottish Quality Crops (SQC) will share the latest market outlook for key Scottish combinable crops. AHDB analysts will present market trends, while Boortmalt will discuss the potential for future ‘green premiums’ on malting barley. SQC will provide an overview of the assurance landscape, emphasising the importance of collaboration between growers, supply chains,

processors, and assurance bodies to ensure that standards benefit everyone involved.

D&R: Electrical Infrastructure Upgrades: Essential guide to protecting your land and business – 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm As the drive towards netzero accelerates, farmers will increasingly encounter challenges related to electrical infrastructure upgrades on their land. As the NFU Scotland affinity partner for Utilities and Infrastructure projects, D&R have been supporting farmers in engaging with and claiming against the statutory undertakers, and most importantly, guiding farmers on how to best protect their businesses from the impact of the electrical upgrade works. In this seminar, D&R will deliver their essential guide to protecting your land and business when you find out that you’ll be impacted.

Moredun Foundation: Challenges and Possible Solutions For Dealing With Cryptosporidiosis In Cattle

And Sheep – 2:45 pm to 3:45 pm

Cryptosporidiosis continues to be a significant challenge for livestock farmers. In this session, Dr. Frank Katzer from the Moredun Research Institute, with support from Sara Robson, a veterinarian from MSD, will share the latest research on controlling the disease in cattle and sheep. With practical advice on diagnostics, treatments, and the launch of a new Cryptosporidium vaccine in the UK, this session is invaluable for farmers seeking to manage neonatal diarrhoea in their herds.

Katzer adds, “Attending AgriScot is an excellent opportunity for us to engage with farmers and to highlight our practical research outputs, generated by scientists at Moredun, which will help farmers to reduce the impact of infectious diseases for their herds and flocks.”

To view the seminars via the live stream, or watch back after the event, visit www.agriscot. com

Business skills – supporting future agricultural leaders

The AgriScot Business Skills Competition, sponsored by NFU Mutual, organised by Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) and supported by SAYFC, supports aspiring young professionals by encouraging them to think about the skills required to manage an agricultural business, while also connecting them with mentors and networks, to help with their personal and professional development.

The theme for this year’s competition is ‘how multiple income streams can contribute to business resilience’, initially requiring a short, written application on the topic. Those who made the shortlist were invited to participate in live challenges and discussions on a farm in October, where their business skills and understanding of agribusiness issues and opportunities were assessed in real time.

The finalists from this stage will then meet ahead of AgriScot to complete a final task to identify a winner, who will receive £1000 cash prize. All finalists will also be invited to a dinner before AgriScot, providing an opportunity for industry networking.

Commenting on the importance of the competition, AgriScot Chair, Robert Neill, said, “The Business Skills competition challenges young people to think creatively and strategically about how to run businesses in agriculture, enhancing their skills and confidence to drive the industry forward. The focus on building business resilience through diverse income streams is very topical as we see farming businesses across the UK thinking and operating differently in order to stay relevant and profitable in a changing agricultural landscape.”

Last year, Ian Carlisle, who works on his family’s beef and sheep farm in Dumfries

and supports their abattoir and butchery business in Lockerbie, won the competition. Commenting on the experience, he said, “I

thought entering the competition was a good opportunity to push myself outside my comfort zone and be challenged on my business

acumen - and that’s what it proved to be, I was suitably challenged and the judges pushed to get the best out of me.”

Silage Competition – longest running silage competition in Scotland

This year’s event will host the 23rd annual AgriScot Silage Competition. The competition which has attracted more than 3000 entries since it began, is the longest running silage competition in Scotland. It is a reflection of the high regard the contest is held in, that has kept it going continuously, never missing a year since it began in 2001 – in spite of disasters such as foot and mouth disease and the coronavirus pandemic.

Silage production is vital to farm enterprises across Scotland. Quality is key, particularly at a time when increasing feed and fertiliser costs are putting pressure on farming businesses. Knowing the nutritional value of silage allows for accurate ration planning and regular analysis means variations in quality can be quickly corrected.

The silage competition is divided into four categories: Beef

Clamp, Dairy Clamp, Big Bale and a Young Farmer class for those aged 30 and under, which can be submitted from any cut of silage.

Judges will examine the silage analysis report submitted by each applicant, evaluating metabolisable energy, crude protein, and dry matter. The top three results in each category will be judged live on the day of AgriScot.

Andrew Best, Seed Specialist at Watson Seeds, which sponsors

the prizes, and organiser of the AgriScot Silage Competition, says: “Every growing year is different, and it’s always interesting to see the analysis. This year has been hard going for grass growing. It was a mild, wet winter and there was more grass coming through than traditionally would be expected but then the early summer weather meant the first cut was later for most people.

“We expect silage to be more fibrous in the first cut, and it will be interesting to see the results from the later cuts as the weather has been catchy and it’s made it difficult to cut the grass at the right stage to get that nice balance between yield and quality. The competition is great to be part of, but it also demonstrates the value of knowing your silage so you can supplement appropriately and efficiently. This competition recognises the work that goes into that and why it matters.”

In the main ring, judges Hugh McClymont and Donald

Harvey will judge the final samples, explain their decisions, and entertain the crowd with their forage knowledge and silage analysis feedback.

Chair of AgriScot, Robert Neill, said, “The silage competition is one of the longest

running at AgriScot, and has proved to be a popular ringside event. Farmers will always aim to produce the highest quality forage possible, but it’s not always easy putting yourself out there against your peers. Winning in this competition is

great validation of what you are achieving.”

Winners of each category will be awarded with 10 acres of any Watson Seeds Castle Mixture, with second and third place, receiving five and two acres, respectively.

Beef Demonstration – the pros and cons of calving at two years

One of the highlights of AgriScot each year is the beef demonstration which takes place in the main ring and for 2024 will focus on the practicalities of calving at two years to reduce emissions.

The interactive audience participation demonstration, supported by Quality Meat Scotland (QMS), will be led by Gavin Hill, Senior Beef Specialist at SAC Consulting

(part of SRUC) along with Robert Gilchrist, Chief Executive of the Aberdeen Angus Society.

With a focus on practical advice, it addresses some of the key current talking points for beef farmers and prompts relevant discussion.

“Calving at two years is one of the headline proposals to meet environmental targets from Scottish Government for future support payments, however it’s not for everyone,” explains Gavin. “We’ll be looking at who can get it right, and where it can go wrong, some of the pitfalls, and challenging farmers to think about if it’s right for them. There’s an age old saying that the pencil is far from the plough, and although the theory is good, it’s not always practical to put into practice in the field in every farm situation. There are lots of different ways to drive down emissions, including breeding, health and diet, and we’ll be looking at some of the

alternative actions to drive down emissions as well.”

The cattle will be handled in the ring by second-year students from Oatridge College, who are working with the four breeding Angus Cross and Simmental Cross heifers at the college in the lead up to the event to build their experience and confidence with livestock.

The audience will vote on the Voting Pad app to gauge current thinking in the industry and prompt discussion points as well as to bring in some fun competition.

“AgriScot is a great place to have these important industry discussions and for farmers to be able to take away practical steps, advice and conversations that are relevant to their own business”, says Bruce McConachie from QMS.

Chair Robert Neill adds, “We know farmers will be interested in this session as they look at different ways to reduce their

emissions and farm profitably. The changes in the agricultural business and policy landscape means constantly thinking differently and sessions like these can be so valuable for sharing ideas and speaking to others. We look forward to welcoming another large audience to the demonstration in November.”

The demonstration will take place in the show ring at 11.30am.

Dairy Cattle Classes

AgriScot is renowned for its premier dairy cattle classes, bringing breeders from all across

the UK and Ireland, to compete for the largest prize fund of any event in the UK, £25,000.

Last year, the prize fund for each of the classes was increased to reflect the rise in costs of showing and to continue to attract a wide range of competitors. The classes include the traditional Ayrshire, British Red and White, Holstein, and Jersey categories as well as ‘Any Other Dairy Breeds’ class, with entries including Brown Swiss. The prize money and expanded categories is to attract and showcase the best dairy genetics from across the UK and Ireland, explains Robert Hunter, AgriScot Director and Chairman of the Scottish Dairy Cattle Association:

“We’ve evolved the competition to include a wider range of dairy categories, set a date that allows for time between other national competitions and are proud to offer one of the largest prize funds in the country across a number of categories. It’s always a great event with excellent competition and we

look forward to the entries coming in and seeing some of the UK’s top exhibitors in every class in the ring in November.”

The event strongly believes in investing in the competition, as the commitment and challenges involved in showing, are significant for each farm. In addition, they seek out highcalibre judges who have their own experience and knowledge within the sector.

This year’s judging will be led by Iain McLean, a renowned pedigree breeder from near Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland. Iain farms at Priestland Farm with his wife Joyce and son John and together they developed the dairy business with emphasis on breeding for show winning type. This element of the business has encouraged the next generation, with all having taken an active role in Holstein and Ayrshire Young Breeders. They have also been an integral part of the Priestland show team

helping to win 47 Holstein breed champions to date, and a similar number for the other breeds.

The 180-cow herd includes Holsteins, which makes up most of the herd, alongside a few Jerseys, Ayrshires and Dairy Shorthorns, and over 200 followers. The herd was upgraded to pedigree status in the 1990s.

In 2008, the family invested heavily in Canadian and American world-class embryos. Their best purchase was probably embryos from a daughter of Thrulane James Rose as these,

along with their offspring make up some of the best cows and heifers in the Priestland herd.

“I am over the moon to be invited to judge the AgriScot dairy competition,” says Mr McLean. “It draws the best dairy breeders from across the country and I feel very privileged and am really looking forward to it.”

Judging of the dairy classes will culminate with the Interbreed Super Heifer and Interbreed Super Cow awards, each carrying a £1,000 prize. For the second year, the competition includes the Best Udder category.

Follow AgriScot online:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/AgriScot/ Twitter/X - https://twitter.com/agriscot LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/agriscot

And featuring some of this years’ exhibitors…

ALLTECH and KEENAN

For those of us who work in agri-food, maintaining herd health is crucial for ensuring profitability, but environmental protection is just as important for preserving the land for future generations. Balancing sustainability goals with the practical demands of running a farm can be challenging, but healthier herds lead to more efficient operations, ultimately, reducing environmental impact and securing long-term success.

At Alltech, we believe in harnessing the power of science to enhance herd health, farm efficiency and environmental stewardship while also boosting farm profitability. Our solutions across animal nutrition, crop science and feed management help farmers achieve all these goals.

Alltech’s many proven technologies include innovative solutions such as Egalis, the latest silage inoculant offering which maximises nutrient quality and reduces dry matter loss, helping you get more out of your silage; and Optigen, a non-protein nitrogen source, providing continuous access to essential nutrients for rumen bacteria, helping to reduce reliance on plant protein sources that fluctuate in price and availability.

In addition to these solutions, we bring you the support you need, when you need it. Our InTouch feed management system offers user-friendly, realtime feeding updates and advice, and our knowledgeable onfarm nutritionists make regular visits, offering recommendations tailored to your needs.

Another key to unlocking higher profitability and

sustainability is a KEENAN MechFiber diet feeder. These reliable machines offer the latest designs, such as a blade configuration that provides more precise mixing action, creating a more consistent and digestible mix that elevates feed efficiency.

KEENAN, an Irish company which was established in 1978 and joined the Alltech family of companies in 2016, is also proud to have earned the prestigious certification of the Carbon Trust.

Visit the Alltech–KEENAN booth in the Highland Hall at AgriScot to learn more.

AMAZONE

The AMAZONE Centaya-C combines flexibility with performance

When it comes to convenience and output, then the Centaya-C drill combi offers it all. This highly sophisticated drill unit comes with QuickLink, a toolless three-point hitch system, allowing the front cultivation tool to be dropped off the drill in minutes. This unique system means that the KG powerharrow, frequently used in a conventional plough-based, or min-till establishment systems on heavier soils, can be simply exchanged for the passive, high-speed, low-horsepower CombiDisc for shallow seedbed preparation or the Minimum TillDisc setup for working directly into a cover crop or previous stubbles. The result? A practical, flexible solution to all those drilling dilemmas.

The Centaya-C features a 2,000 litre hopper divided into two chambers, adjustable to

either a 70:30 or 60:40 split depending on the application rate for each material. The two electrically-driven metering units can be calibrated individually and the material from each hopper then placed in the same seed slot giving a starter fertiliser along with the seed whereas, with the Centaya-CC, the second hopper can be used to place the material directly next to the seed slot, known as Doubleshoot,increasing the volume of fertiliser that can be applied without risk of any seed burn.

With the drill controlled by ISOBUS, Task Controller automatically looks after the seed rate in either tank meaning variable rate drilling from two VRA maps is not a problem. Automatic headland shut-off can be used where a terminal with Section Control is available.

A third hopper, in the shape of the 110 litre catch crop seeder box, can be added for applying micro-granular herbicides, slug pellets or small seeds. The drill can also be used in conjunction with the FTender front supply hopper and the GreenDrill 200E for the simultaneous application of up to 5 different materials.

For more information on the Centaya drill range then come and see AMAZONE at AgriScot 2024.

BD SUPPLIES

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, being a supplier of IAE, Portequip and Tru-Test Weigh 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.

We took the wood pellets on with the same ethos as the agricultural side of the businessQuality 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.

Our unique strain of live, micro-encapsulated 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.

BIOCELL AGRI

Biocell Agri are The Yeast Specialists.

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

BUNNING

Bunning will return to AgriScot this year showing its popular

Lowlander 120 TVA manure spreader aimed at increasing consistent output and supporting timely applications of valuable farmyard manures and composts.

The Lowlander 120 TVA is the second largest spreader in Bunning’s nine-model Lowlander MK4 TVA range and offers users a 14t carrying capacity. The robust design includes full width socket-fit floor slats, with 80 grade 16mm floor chains that are standard on all Bunning spreaders up to the Lowlander 150 MK4 15t spreader. A one-piece rear gearbox ensures a reliable spread pattern with all materials, and a rubber cushion drive coupling reduces shock loads that could shorten longevity of the auger drive gearbox.

Ben Johnson, UK and Ireland sales manager, says build quality to increase longevity is a high priority for buyers. “Farmers want to be confident that investing in machinery will offer greater longevity and reliability

and our decades of experience building spreaders means we use proven components and a refined design that is capable of handling years of use.”

At the rear, the standard spreading mechanism features twin 695mm dynamically balanced augers with heat treated Boron flights, cutters, and bottom blades to improve strength and longevity. An option for farmers looking to increase output and spreading width, but retain the benefits of a smaller machine, is upgrading to twin 865mm dynamically balanced Widebody augers. This offers a higher throughput of material and increases the spreading accuracy of fine products at low application rates.

Ben also says access to technology is a key consideration for a lot of buyers. “All Bunning spreaders are available with an application rate controller using weigh cells via Isobus or various Topcon screens. This offers users precise manure management and

application along with accurately recording loads and yearly spreading totals. We are looking forward to seeing old and new customers at AgriScot.”

Bunning is on Upland Hall stand number 219.

DALBO

At DALBO we’re delighted to be increasing our stand space at AgriScot this year. This is due to previous years at AgriScot being a great success but also because earlier this year DALBO UK became the importer for APV. APV offer a range of products and we will focus on 3 main lines - grass rejuvenation, harrows and seeders. With our new offering it

gives us a very strong product line up for grassland management. On the stand we will have an AS600 Harrow with 300L PS seeder. The leading cover crop seeder comes with many options for fan type, hopper size and control boxes to suit your needs. APV also offers ISOBUS allowing you to enhance your broadcasting.

Since DALBO UK was formed in 2010. It’s very pleasing that, in such a competitive market, DALBO UK’s market share has grown year on year. The most popular product sold in the UK by DALBO is the 12.3m Power Roll, closely followed by the 6.3m and 8.3m Maxiroll. The Maxiroll is commonly known as a ‘system’ roll as many attachments can be mounted to this frame enabling the machine to suit multiple applications. The most popular attachments are the hydraulically adjustable cracker boards and seeder units. One massive advantage of the Maxiroll is that the brackets necessary to take an attachment are always included in

the ‘base’ machine, so it’s simple to add on an attachment. Next would be our Greenline which is fitted with ballast drums and comes in 6.3m & 8.3m. The ballast drums have a curved edge to prevent scuffing at the headlands, and like the Maxiroll can be fitted with attachments and seeder units enabling it to be more than ‘just’ a roller.

We look forward to welcoming you onto our stand.

DALBO - where originality matters

EMBER ENERGY

At Ember Energy, we specialise in Commercial Solar Panels and

renewables in general across Scotland and England.

Using solar power to create electricity is by no means a new concept, but with electric costs rising and the price of solar panels and battery storage falling, it is now a more financially viable option than ever before, especially for a farm with shed roofs already in place. Ember energy believe we can make the cheapest electricity in the world on farms for their own use.

By installing solar panels, battery storage and wind turbines, farmers are now able to take back control of their power expenditure.

At Ember Energy we provide a comprehensive service starting with a site visit. We are a one stop shop from start to finish. Including finding the cheapest electricity rate on the market, as Ember Energy Ltd have been an energy broker since 2023.

We have recently partnered with an established Dutch wind

turbine company which gives us access to 10kW -3MW wind turbines. Repowering existing wind turbine sites is suddenly very exciting!

We welcome your enquiry, to discuss further please call 01563 501582, or fill in an on-line enquiry at www.emberenergy.co.uk.

JMT HONDA

“When working days are long, nothing beats my Honda.”

As we move into the 2025 season, the Honda Fourtrax and Foreman range remain the ATVs of choice. Built with the perfect balance of Performance, Ability and Durability each model features the quality and reliability you would expect from a HONDA ATV.

The TRX420 Fourtrax range is available with selectable 2/4WD, Power Steering, Manual gearshift, Electric Shift and Dual Clutch (DCT) Automatic models with your choice of straight axle or IRS suspension.

Our Heavy-Hitter, the Honda Foreman models are built for hard work and heavy loads, all day long. Featuring a wider stance with diff lock, Power Steering and IRS models, your choice of manual gearshift, Electric Shift or DCT automatic.

Complimenting the ATV range is Honda’s compact Side by Side, the Honda PIONEER 520. Lighter and more compact than a classic UTV, the Honda PIONEER 520 delivers the quality and refinement you would expect from a Honda in a versatile 2-seater, enabling you to go about your daily tasks in comfort and confidence. Selectable 2/4WD, 5 speed gearbox with paddle gearshift and fully automatic mode, independent handbrake and tipping bed. Ideal for farming and estate management duties, tough enough for challenging off-road terrain and slim enough to get through gates and trees. The Honda PIONEER is capable of going where larger UTVs can’t, including narrow trails, still with room for 2 people, and at a kerb weight of only 483kg it is one of the lightest and most fuel efficient UTVs on the market.

All Honda ATVs and PIONEER 520 models come with 2 years Warranty, peace of mind and Honda DNA as standard.

There has never been a better time to upgrade… now with £1000 off the cost of your new Honda ATV. Talk to your local Honda dealer for details, visit us in the Upland Hall today.

KVERNELAND

The wraps will come off this new machine at Agriscot, where it will replace the proven 856 Pro. This latest model boasts a six cubic metre capacity, and the ability to handle bales up to 2m in diameter.

A key feature of the 866 Pro is the introduction of a hydraulically activated belt clutch. This new element allows the shredding rotor to run independently of the flywheel. Activated from the cab, this feature lets the operator achieve maximum flywheel speed before starting the shredding rotor, reducing the risk of blockage in the flywheel.

With a host of upgrades over the model it replaces, the 866 Pro includes dual shredding rotors that sit in front of a larger flywheel housing, with material fed out through a larger and wider, fourstage swivel chute.

Using smaller diameter rotor tubes affords a larger shredding area around each rotor, which provides improved access to the flywheel to deliver greater throughput with material flow. Complimenting this redesign is a wider flywheel housing, increased from 30cm up to 35cm, again focussed on improved material flow.

The 866 Pro’s chute, being wider than the 856 Pro, has less tapering towards the end of the flap which contributes to improved blowing performance. In addition, a deflector plate now sits between the flywheel housing and chute, for better material guidance.

Optional side extension plates can now be specified above the twin beaters, increasing capacity and reducing spillage. These work in conjunction with the rubber extension piece that is fitted to the top guard, above the mechanical comb.

A responsible future based on efficiency and performance

The agricultural industry is under increasing pressure to boost productivity whilst lowering emissions. While this provides a challenge, it also represents an opportunity for KW to build Scotland’s sustainable rural economy, specifically across the beef and dairy sectors.

Each year KW supplies hundreds of thousands of tonnes of product to Scotland’s top ruminant farmers, with a range of predominantly home-produced feeds from the brewing, distilling and food processing industries, alongside more traditional straights and additives.

This includes the supply of carefully formulated custom blends.

KW’s FAR registered feed advisors work closely with inhouse raw material buyers and innovation teams, to supply some of Scotland’s most sought after low-emission feeds.

Customers in Scotland are ideally placed for making best use of the valuable supply of topquality co-products, in particular from the Scottish distillery industry.

Alongside expert advice from its nutritionists and FAR trained on-farm advisors, KW’s unrivalled choice of feed and on-farm technology provides the perfect package to help producers achieve responsible performance.

This includes the introduction of the cloud-based feed management system, Feedlync by Cowconnect.

This cost-effective technology package allows producers to improve feed efficiencies and reduce wastage, as well as giving nutritionists access to data off site, helping to reduce overspend, boost productivity and improve carbon footprints at the touch of a button. Come and meet KW at AgriScot 2024 (stand 47). Regional specialist feed advisor Stephen Ball will be joined by the new face to the team, Derek Merrylees.

Derek has come from a dairy nutrition background, with a focus on embracing cutting edge technology to improve farm efficiencies.

He says, “We pride ourselves on being a feed and nutritional services partner to some of

Scotland’s top-performing farms. Visit our stand and see how we can help support your business.”

MAJOR EQUIPMENT

Grass and slurry experts Major Equipment Ltd are returning to AgriScot 2024 with a selection of equipment from their extensive range of agricultural machinery. On display will be the Major MJ39-143 Hedge Cutter head for power arms. The MJ39 MAJOR Rotary Hedge Cutter is the ultimate head for the most intense jobs. Twin rotors fitted with 8 blades deliver extreme cutting and shredding on overgrown hedges and scrubby areas. Its gear box driveline requires less power consumption and eliminates any rotor balancing issues. This system requires less fuel consumption: owners save up to 3 litres per hour compared to flail head systems.

With less wearing parts, the MJ39 is a durable and reliable attachment for contractors, councils, and operators demanding minimal downtime and total cost of ownership. The body is designed to push the cut material into the hedge and prevents debris falling on to the road. Also on display at AgriScot 2024 is the Major Cyclone Mower; an award winning rotary mower that bridges the gap between a traditional grass topper and flail mower. Designed to do the work of a flail, the Major Cyclone requires a 25% less power consumption than a typical flail, saving time and fuel costs for users. The heavy duty machine is increasingly the instrument of choice for clearing crop stubble, pasture topping, and land clearance in Scotland and around the world.

Major Equipment Ltd will also be showcasing a 2670 Alpine Tanker and slurry application systems. Major’s slurry tankers and application systems are precision-engineered and custom-fitted with best-in-class

An all-new flagship bale chopper joins the Kverneland range and it’s called the 866 Pro.

KW FEEDS

components to give farmers and operators safe and compliant solutions.

For more information call Major Equipment Ltd on 01524 850501 or visit www.majorequipment.com.

McAREE

Elevate Your Farming Experience with V-Mac Silos: Your Ultimate Storage Solution! Prepare to revolutionize your farming storage at the AgriScot Show with V-Mac Silos and A. Winder & Son! Discover the future of agricultural storage, where innovation meets reliability and expertise.

Unique Features: V-Mac Silos stand tall with their unique rolled body construction, ensuring exceptional strength and minimal feed blockages. Crafted from Magizinc, a highly corrosionresistant steel, V-Mac Silos outlast traditional galvanized options. With heavy-duty, hot-dipped galvanized steel angle iron for legs and bracing, V-Mac Silos offer unparalleled durability and longevity. With nearly 60 years of dedicated craftsmanship, each silo is custom-built, offering a wide array of formats tailored to your specific needs.

Benefits for Farmers:

Experience unparalleled cost savings by purchasing feed in bulk, minimizing expenses over bagged alternatives. V-Mac Silos ensure reduced wastage, protecting your feed from spoilage and pests and meet bio security standards. Say goodbye to losses and hello to efficient, sustainable farming.

Expertise of A. Winder & Son: With 15 years of expertise as the V-Mac Agent in Scotland

and North England, Paul Winder brings unparalleled knowledge to every installation. His expertise extends beyond installation; he’s your go-to person for designing and connecting your feed system to your new V-Mac Silo.

Show Highlights: Explore our range of silos and tote bins on display. Engage with our experts, receive personalized advice, and find the perfect storage solution for your farm. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your farming efficiency!

Contact Information: For inquiries or consultations, reach out to Paul Winder at vmacsilosuk@gmail.com or contact Amie at 07779185562. Stay updated with V-Mac Silos on social media [@VMacSilos] for the latest news and expert insights.

Visit us at AgriScot and witness the future of farming storage unfold before your eyes. Let V-Mac Silos and Paul Winder & Son empower your farm for a prosperous tomorrow!

McHALE

McHale will be displaying a wide range of machinery at this year’s AgriScot show on November 13th. McHale will be showcasing their latest products by displaying the new McHale F5 Range of fixed chamber balers along with the new Pro Pel T10-1260 Tedder.

The new McHale F5 Range of Fixed Chamber Balers comprises of four models:

- F5-540: Non-Chopper Baler

- F5-550: 15 Knife Chopper, Semi-Automatic Baler

- F5-560: 25 Knife Chopper, Fully Automatic Baler

- F5-560 Plus: 25 Knife

Chopper, Fully Automatic Film Binding Baler

The new F5 range introduces our newly designed Profi-Flo pick-up featuring enhanced throughput and increased crop flow. Bale density and bale binding has increased in performance to produce higher density bales. A focus has also been placed on operator comfort whilst still ensuring the reliability and heavyduty build quality that McHale is renowned for is maintained.

In designing the new F5 range, operator comfort and friendliness were at the forefront of the machine’s development. All machines in the F5 range deliver a number of new features through their various control consoles, while ISOBUS compatible machines allow the operator to experience the highest level of customisation and machine performance.

McHale are proud to present the new McHale ProPel T10-1260 Tedder to the range.

The ProPel tedders are the ideal machines to lift and aerate even the heaviest crops. This results in the best quality fodder in the shortest time. The tedders have proven to be strong, robust machines which are highly efficient and reliable in all terrains.

The McHale ProPel T10 Tedder is a trailed machine that is fitted with a long carriage frame that connects the tedder to the tractor when in operation and serves as a carrier when in transit.

MERLO

At this year’s Agriscot show, Merlo will showcase an impressive range of telehandlers on stand 142 in the Highland Hall. Among the machines on display are:

* 25.5 e-Worker: A fully electric telehandler that offers a 2.5-tonne capacity and a 5m max lift height. Designed for efficiency and environmental responsibility, the e-Worker features an 8-hour battery life. This machine is perfect for indoor or outdoor use without sacrificing power or performance. Engineered from the ground up with all existing conventions set aside, the e-Worker’s innovative design includes features such as; the 1.5 tonne battery being centrally placed for overall stability and gravity-assisted boom descent, reducing energy consumption and extending battery life. This telehandler represents Merlo’s next step towards a sustainable future, combining high performance with minimal environmental impact.

* TF30.7 Compact Telehandler: Ideal for Scottish farmers, this newly launched model offers a 3-tonne capacity and a 7m lift height. At just 2 meters wide and 2.10 meters high (the Low Cab option reduces this to 2.00 meters), the TF30.7 excels in navigating

tight spaces. With a powerful 100hp Deutz Stage V engine and smooth hydraulic systems, the TF30.7 is a high-performance machine perfect for traditional farmyards. It includes an optional cab suspension for enhanced comfort on rough terrain.

* TF35.7 CS Medium-Capacity Telehandler: A versatile, allrounder machine with a 3.5-tonne capacity and a 7m lift height, providing greater power and capacity than its compact siblings. Powered by a 136hp Deutz Stage V engine, with a responsive loadsensing 139 l/min hydraulic pump, and flow sharing technology as standard. Cab suspension decreases vibrations in the cab, increasing operator comfort – especially welcome when travelling across uneven ground.

The Merlo team will also be supported by representatives from their Scottish dealer network, ready to answer your questions and explain how a Merlo telehandler will benefit your operation.

MURRAY MACHINERY

Established in 1979, Murray Machinery Ltd operates from within Aberdeenshire, manufacturing material handling attachments to fit telescopic handlers, forklifts and tractor loaders. Murray Machinery has an extensive product range of over 30 machines with numerous variations which are specifically designed for the farming and agricultural sectors. This includes implements such as muck forks, stone forks, bale handling attachments, quick hitch adaptors, shear grabs, buckets and snow blades to name a few.

Murray Machinery, along with just one other, were the recipient of the Gold Award for continuous outstanding merit at the 2023 Royal Highland Show Technical Innovation Awards for their Gravel Road Grader.

The grader has various options available including bolt on hardox edges, hydraulically operated ripper teeth, hydraulically operated tilting frame, marker boards and rear lights. With the addition of a rear compactor roller, the gravel road grader is now able to carry out four different functions in the same machine. With careful adjustment of the levelling beams the grader is able to leave the road surface high in the middle or the machine can also put a camber or a slope on the whole width of the roads therefore helping to take care of rain water management. In utilising stone from the existing road surface, great savings can be made on time, effort and money spent on maintaining your gravel road. A version of our grader, as well other machinery such as a muck fork and

grab, shear grab and bale handling equipment will be available to view on our stand.

Enquire about your next piece of agricultural machinery today on 01651 851636 or to sales@ murraymachinery.com

PERRY OF

OAKLEY

All Your Grain Handling, Drying, Storage & Control

Needs Fulfilled by a British Manufacturer.

Whether you are looking for a single conveyor or a whole new grain plant, Perry of Oakley, a British specialist grain handling manufacturer, can supply it all.

Grain Driers:

Continuous flow grain driers ranging from 5tph on wheat up to 150+tph, with add-ons that can save you up to 35% of your operational drier costs.

Mobile grain driers from 5 to 55m3.

Storage:

Square hopper-bottom bins from 1 to 100 tonnes (based on wheat at 750kg/m3).

Hopper-bottom silos from 35 to 3,000 tonnes (based on wheat at 750kg/m³) with 45 or 60 degree hoppers and diameters from 3m to 13m.

Flat-bottom silos from 30 to 20,000 tonnes (based on wheat at 750kg/m³) and range from 3m (30 tonnes storage) to 32m diameter (20,000 tonnes storage).

Full range of accessories including sweep augers, discharge augers, catwalks, aeration and monitoring also available.

Handling:

Intakes: mechanical reception

hoppers and trench intakes available.

Full range of conveyors from 10tph to 1000tph (based on wheat at 750kg/m³) including belt conveyors, chain & flight conveyors, curved combination and inclined conveyors, travelling and levelling conveyors (perfect for filling flat stores), screw conveyors and twin trace conveyors.

Belt & bucket elevators from 11tph to 1000tph (based on wheat at 750kg/m³).

Control:

Both grain drier PLCs and whole plant PLC panels are available and can be programmed to control nonPerry machines.

Why choose Perry of Oakley?

Based in UK so easy access & rapid delivery of spare parts.

Fully designed and manufactured in house so you get to talk to the people that know the product inside & out.

Huge track record in grain handling, drying, storage and control from local farmers to international grain stores & port facilities.

No matter the size of your requirement Perrys will have a solution. To discuss your next project or your individual machine needs please contact Perry of Oakley today on 01404 890300 or sales@perryofoakley.co.uk.

POTTINGER

The 2024 AgriScot event will see Pottinger showcasing the new Jumbo 5340 loader wagon. This latest model range in the Jumbo lineup will be displayed alongside machines from our grassland and arable range in the Highland Hall.

The Jumbo 5000 is available in six new models ranging in DIN capacity between 32 - 54 m3 and has become the younger sibling to the 7000 and 8000 models. One of the greatest challenges was to ensure the 5000 can collect crop cleanly and tidily in all operating conditions. It is able to do this thanks to the 6-row all-rounder pick-up with an effective width of

1,890 mm and the optional 7-row Profi pick-up with a DIN width of 2,350 mm.

Short-chopped forage is not only beneficial for feeding ruminants, it can also be compacted effectively and efficiently in the clamp. Thanks to the POWERCUT short-chop chopping system with 45 knives, the forage is cut to just 34 mm in length. The knives are all individually protected against foreign objects, which prevents inefficient downtime. The optional AUTOCUT knife sharpening system with its electro-hydraulic drive system is a convenient way of sharpening the knives fully automatically directly on the loader wagon.

One of the many new features is the front movable panel. It offers an additional load capacity of 4.3 m3 without increasing wagons overall length, this improves manoeuvrability in small fields and on narrow farm tracks. To utilise the loader wagon to its full potential the automatic loading system is fitted as standard, this ensures optimum compaction and filling of the loading chamber.

The Jumbo 5000 range replaces the hugely successful and reliable Torro models, we look forward to introducing this new range of forage wagon technology at AgriScot in November.

POWERWASHER SERVICES

At PWS, we’re a proud familyrun enterprise spanning three generations. We specialise in the sale, service, hire and repair of a diverse range of equipment. Whether you need Power Washers, Scrubber Driers, Floor Sweepers, Industrial & Commercial Vacuums, Generators, Compressors, Heaters, Water Pumps, Dust Suppression Units, Cleaning Detergents, or more, we’ve got you covered.

In 1983, PWS was founded by Jack Whitecross, who was a dairyman at the time. Jack brought

with him a vast understanding of the agricultural market which served as a cornerstone for the company’s early success. Over the years, PWS has expanded its reach beyond Agriculture, branching into various other industries. Today we offer a wide range of machines and equipment suitable for numerous sectors, including Transport & Haulage, Hospitality & Leisure, Engineering & Manufacturing, Oil, Gas & Marine and more. Our commitment to quality and innovation remains strong, ensuring we meet the diverse needs of our clients across these varied fields.

We are dedicated to providing high-quality products at competitive prices, coupled with an unparalleled backup service. Operating across Scotland, we ensure comprehensive coverage with our fleet of 12 service vans and 2 dedicated sales representatives actively working each day to meet your needs. Our unwavering commitment to hard work, determination and the consistent supply of quality products has propelled us miles ahead of our competitors. This dedication has earned us the number one spot for our loyal customers.

Each generation has brought its expertise and passion to ensure our customers receive the best service possible. From routine maintenance to emergency repairs, our skilled team is here to help you keep your equipment running smoothly. Whether you need expert advice or prompt assistance, we ensure that your experience with us is seamless and satisfying.

Explore our extensive inventory and experience the PWS difference!

SCOTTISH MACHINERY RINGS

There are nine Machinery Rings covering the length and breadth of the country servicing over 7,000 members with an annual

pooled throughput of over £130 million.

Each Machinery Ring responds to the individual needs of members but collectively, the services delivered fall into four key categories; machinery contracting, labour, training and inputs. This collective approach helped to secure an exclusive Case IH Rebate available to any member of a Scottish Machinery Ring purchasing a new Case IH tractor, forklift, combine or baler. The partnership, initiated in July 2009, is now in its 15th year of operation and during that time has returned several million pounds to Machinery Ring members.

Helping farms increase efficiency, improve skills and reduce costs remain top Machinery Ring priorities as the industry moves to a more sustainable future. To achieve this, Rings are investing in the latest networking and IT infrastructure as well as taking a proactive approach to bring scale and innovation to deliver new services – they are effectively a one stop shop for family farms whatever their size or enterprise type. If it happens on your farm and you need help, they are keen to be involved.

As the success of Machinery Rings has grown, they have reinvested in their local communities. The list of projects is extensive and includes supporting RHET, RSABI and Young Farmers training as well as developing an extensive pre-apprenticeship scheme for school leavers. By the end of this financial year, 351 young people will have graduated from the scheme.

If you want to know more, please visit our AgriScot stand on stand 34 Highland Hall.

ShearWeigh System - make the most of your data with smarter livestock handling

SHEARWELL

Whether you have cattle or sheep, the ShearWeigh System, comprising of the ShearWeigh weigh head and load bars, are designed to work together to bring real benefits to livestock farmers.

One of the biggest improvements you can make is the introduction of a digital weigh head. Weight data is automatically transferred to your phone or the Shearwell X6 Stock Recorder in a matter of seconds. From here you can view weigh gain and pick out those animals who are under performing and take actions before problems occur.

New for this Autumn, we are including the ShearWeigh Pro App FREE with every ShearWeigh Weigh Head purchase. Load the app on your phone to see the weight on the screen in real time. The ShearWeigh Pro app is feature rich whilst remaining easy to use. You can easily compare DLWGs between two weighing sessions.

There are a range of reports available, so you can report on weights, DLWG, and draft sessions, plus import and export weigh data.

“The ShearWeigh Weigh Head is easy to install. The app is easy to download. You can see the weighs right there and it doesn’t need internet, I love it!”

Shearwell provides a complete system to help livestock farmers benefit from their data. Tags, EID Readers, Software and the ShearWeigh system, together save time and help you make the most of your valuable time. Our products are in use across Scotland and all of the UK, USA, Australia and New Zealand.

To find out how Shearwell’s products can help you, please get in touch with Shearwell’s Representatives: North Scotland and the Isles call Jane on 07788 209438 or email jane.thomson@ shearwell.co.uk or South Scotland call James on 07714 744686 or email james.hickson@ shearwell.co.uk

VOGELSANG

Leading slurry management equipment manufacturer, Vogelsang, is showcasing its range of dribble bars and trailing shoes at this year’s AgriScot.In particular, Vogelsang is encouraging visitors to speak to them about its newly launched BlackBird Light. The trailing shoe system weights just 1,400kg at its largest working width of 15 metres. It is also available in a working width of 12 metres.

Andy Hayhurst, agricultural sales manager for Vogelsang, said: “The new BlackBird Light is the ideal linkage for farmers and contractors concerned about field compaction during slurry application. There has been weightsavings carefully taken into account in every piece of this popular machine, including the hose

routing and skids. It comes with a Vogelsang ExaCut ECM distributor head and is also perfectly suited to be retrofitted to a tanker.”

In addition, Vogelsang will show its latest XSplit slurry separator on a mobile trailer. Mounted on the brand’s Pro Frame, the XSplit weighs just 3.1 tonnes and has been designed to sit low to the ground for better stability and balance during transport and operation.

Andy added: “We launched the new trailer mounted XSplit unit to appeal to contractors and multi-site farms looking to improve slurry quality before application. The trailer enables contractors to offer separation as a service or can be used on-farm to separate slurry or digestate in almost all locations. As demand for separation grows,the mobile trailer system offers the option to have slurry separated, on occasion, to help free up space, or to separate slurry in harder to reach storage.”

Vogelsang will be on stand 188 in the Lowland Hall.

Diet Feeders

A look at some of the models on the market today

Abbey Machinery Diet Feeders: Finance as low as 0% available

Abbey machinery is an agricultural technology company based in Tipperary, Ireland, specialising in manufacturing comprehensive “Total Cow” solutions for farmers. As part of this solution, Abbey offers a cutting-edge feed management system that supports progressive farming operations by providing a consistent mix for herds of any size, enhancing overall herd performance.

With Abbey’s recent announcement of Feeder Finance availability, it is now easier than ever to add an Abbey Diet Feeder to your farm.

Abbey Diet Feeders are ideal for customers seeking increased

capacity, stability, and mix quality without added height. The range includes various Vertical Auger Diet Feeders and Static Feeders. The Vertical Auger Feeders are available in Single, Double, and TriAuger models, with capacities ranging from 8m³ to 33.5m³, all customizable to individual needs with optional extras.

The feeder range is equipped with Digi-Star weighing systems for precise feeding, Heavy-Duty Comer gearboxes and 15mm or 22mm augers to ensure premium mix quality. The unique tub design promotes thorough feed movement, resulting in a well-

blended, easily digestible mix for your herd.

Abbey Diet Feeders have a uniquely designed low auger, raised

top knife and bespoke tub style which combine to gently chop, mix and feed out feeds in a manner that optimises the utilisation of the diet.

Mix consistency is the key to feed performance from BvL

Consistency is the key to a good ration mix and no two farms are the same. Therefore it’s important that a wide range of specifications and options are available, so that machines can be tailored to meet those requirements.

It’s over 40 years since Bernard van Lengerich Maschinenfabrick (BvL) introduced the first vertical feed mixer wagon to the market, during which time the company has grown to become one of the world’s leading manufacturers of diet mixers.

Today, the BvL V-MIX range of trailed diet feeders covers a wide range of machines, available in single, twin and triple auger

variants and in capacity from 3.5m3 up to 46m3. In addition there are the increasingly popular V-MIX DRIVE single and twin auger self-propelled models with capacities from 11m3 up to 21m3. Instead of cutting, these use a combing action to loosen the silage from the clamp which helps avoid damage and helps preserve feed quality.

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.

A unique feature of all BvL diet mixers is the patented EDS

(Exact Dosing System) discharge. This is designed to provide consistent, even forage discharge that is deposited in a loose swath.

Seko Diet Feeders from Harry West

Harry West (Prees) Ltd are able to offer a full complement of diet feeding options for all your particular requirements.

In these ever changing times the demand to produce more for a lower cost has never been more prevalent in the dairy / beef industry. This as always been a very topical issue.

The range of Diet Feeders available from our North Shropshire base covers every requirement for the progressive breeder. As the sole importer of the Seko Industries products we can offer the full range from the highly regarded Italian manufacture.

For customers who require chopped material we can offer the extensive range of Seko machines, these top quality horizontal and vertical designed models offer up

to the minute in design and quality built machines.

The Seko Samurai 7 horizontal range give us capacities of 5 cu/m up to 30 cu/m in various configurations consisting of trailed, selfpropelled and stationary units. The simple design consisting of two augers with four convergent windings along with stationary and auger blades giving an excellent chopping and mixing action.

Seko also have a complete range of vertical diet feeders labelled the Tiger series with capacities of 9cu/m to 45cu/m also available in self-propelled, trailed and stationary version. All machines are bespoke built with various discharge options, weighing systems and a variety of other build options.

Agricultural Merchants

Main dealers for SILOKING Diet Feeders

Hi-Spec Vertical Auger and MixMax diet feeders

With its range of Vertical Auger and MixMax paddle type feeders, Hi-Spec Engineering Co Ltd offers one of the widest ranges of diet feeders on the market.

A particular feature of HiSpec diet feeders is the wide range of options, with various feed-out options available, ensuring they can be adapted to suit all types of building and feeding system.

The Hi-Spec Vertical Auger range of V- and T-Series feeders are available in both single (V) and twin (T) auger variants and sizes from 7m3 to 32m3.

A specific feature of the HiSpec range is its ability to quickly and efficiently incorporate complete bales into the mix, due

to the unique knife arrangement, which also allows the Vertical Auger mixer to be used with lower horsepower tractors. The Vertical Auger range uses a low pitch mixing and chopping auger that creates a simple cycle action and is fitted with eight selfsharpening knives one of which runs close to the body of the Vertical Feeder. The chopping blades are adjustable and counter plates in the feeder body ensure that once the mix is drawn up by the auger, as it falls back down the side it is held so that the rotating auger can further chop the feed, ensuring a quick and thorough mix can be consistently achieved.

Profile Plus 2L range from Kuhn combines daily tasks

As farm operating costs continue to be squeezed, using one machine for multiple jobs can maximise the return from any investment and users of KUHN’s Profile Plus 2L feeding and bedding machine can effectively carry out both roles. The five-model range each feature two vertical augers for complete mixing, with tub capacities from 24m3 to 34m3 and operating a dualpurpose machine can reduce the requirement to have multiple tractors and implements, which could simplify the daily processes.

The feeding system design mixes the material in a figure of eight pattern to ensure complete circulation and product flow,

while the polygonal shape of the tub and the continuous helix auger design moves fodder upwards to offer a complete mix. A rear cross-conveyor can distribute material to both sides of the machine.

Suited to herds of 120 to 265 cows, the mixer wagon can also be loaded with straw that is spread via a front mounted straw blowing turbine, propelling material up to 18m.

KUHN’s POLYDRIVE system lets the straw blowing turbine reach operating speed before a hydraulic pulley engages the straw feed, helping to reduce the risk of blockages. Straw can be blown up to 18m from the right-hand side of the machine and 13m from the left,

while a CleanStraw dust control system adds water to the straw to reduce the quantity of dust circulating during operation.

Kverneland’s Siloking Self-propelled feeders gain popularity

Kverneland’s Siloking selfpropelled feeder range continues to gain ground, with the System 500+ model proving a popular option for those with larger herds.

Sitting in the middle of the SelfLine 4.0 conventionalchassis range, this model is flanked by System 300+ and System 1000+ models, with model numbers providing an indication of herd size suitability.

The System 500+ 2519 model is available in four capacities –19, 22, 25 and 27 cubic metres. Equipped with an air-suspended chassis complete with four-wheel steering, the feeder is powered by a 252hp Volvo six-cylinder engine. And 1,000-hour service intervals contribute to lowering the cost of ownership.

Equipped with a 2m wide milling head that supplies the

mixing tub using a 700mm wide belt conveyor, the System 500+ boasts twin vertical augers with adjustable, hardened knives and an integral FlowPlus hopper ring to improve bale processing.

While overall machine height sits below 3m for the 19 cubic metre capacity model, the loading height available across the range is 5.3m through the working range of the milling head. Discharge options can include a hydraulic crossconveyor, and high-capacity HD rear doors for rapid emptying.

For the operator, the cab includes a 7in colour display showing machine functions including discharge door indicator, mixing speed and weighing data. Siloking’s programmable weighing system with feed management software is also included.

NEW Verti-Mix ‘Professional’ Range from Strautmann

Tagged as the ‘Professional’ range, these new models are based on the time-proven design of standard machines but within a more compact chassis.

The idea behind this new offering is to create a more manoeuvrable and less complex mixer wagon which is still capable of withstanding the daily demands of TMR feeding across livestock farms. The range aims to provide a straightforward, competitivelypriced specification for farmers who do not need advanced features but still want to benefit from Strautmann’s marketleading mixing quality.

As such, ‘Professional’spec. Verti-Mix models feature Strautmann’s unique IMS vertical augers as used across the German firm’s entire range. Employing stepped auger flights, the design ensures fast, homogeneous mixing with the widest range of ration ingredients.

A complete redesign of the front end of the machine has made it possible to shorten the distance between the towing eye and the mixing tub, making for a much more compact machine overall. The shortened chassis and drawbar plus reconfigured driveline guarding have made the ‘Professional’ range even more manoeuvrable than ‘Expert’ models, making them suitable for smaller yards and difficult to access buildings.

Alongside the shortened chassis, the simpler threepoint weighing system provides accurate, consistent measurements down to the last

kilogramme even on rough, uneven terrain.

Next issue out January 2025

new to market

Watson Silage Compactor increases pit capacity by 30%

The key to good silage is getting the air out of the pit or bale, reducing the potential for aerobic fermentation, which leads to the loss of nutrients and reduction of palatability.

The time honoured method of doing so, is to roll the pit as the silage comes in, but as the size and power of harvesters increases rolling, the pit will

often take second place to getting the crop stacked into it.

This issue has not been left unaddressed by the farm machinery industry, which has produced various rollers to work pits over the years, but now Walter Watson Agriculture of Co. Down has brought its own answer to the problem to the market.

Silage compression

Known as the Watson Silage Compactor, the tool is a development of the company’s well-known flat roller range, to which it has added rings or collars crowned with broad teeth.

The unit is 2.75m wide, and when ballasted with water,

weighs in at 3.5t, which does require a meaty tractor to lift it, but weight is an advantage in this operation, so Watson suggests that a minimum tractor size of 150hp is required.

Two rams, one each side of the frame, shift it 500mm to the side

Yet, there is more to this machine than it being just a toothed roller. There is a 500mm side-shift function will allows the roller to be used right up against the pit wall, without the tractor having to hug the side as well.

A neat little touch in this respect, is the fitting of a polypropylene roller at each corner to prevent the machine scraping along the side, preserving both machine and wall.

The corner rollers save the machine scarping along the pit wall

Packing the silage in not only increases the quality of the silage, but it also saves space.

Watson goes so far as to suggest that the compactor can increase pit capacity by between 30% and 40%, significantly increasing storage capacity, without the expense of building a new pit.

‘Inspirational’ farming duo giving holidaymakers a true taste of Cumbria

An enterprising young couple are securing the long term future of their traditional hill farm by giving holidaymakers a taste of modern Cumbria.

Dan Simpson and Ruby Cappleman, who run Seatoller Farm at Borrowdale, serve up freshly made stone-baked pizzas which include toppings such as locally-sourced Cumbrian chorizo and air-dried ham and chicken to visitors to their campsite, alongside classics such as Herdwick lamb sausages made from their own flock.

The tasty treats are part of the couple’s extensive diversification strategy which is helping to ensure their traditional Herdwick and Swaledale flocks will continue to graze the fells for generations to come.

As well as providing locallysourced produce, the couple also run a rustic campsite, holiday cottage, gift and coffee shop and pizza barn where they make homemade, stone-baked pizzas.

Ruby, who along with her mum makes woollen products for the gift shop, said the campsite is key to helping sustain the farm in the long term, particularly given the removal of subsidies, which is particularly impacting upland farms.

She said: “All our diversifications, the pizzas and the shop and campsite are all helping to sustain the farm.

“We plan our diversifications so they directly link to or help the farm, such as using our own meat for the pizza toppings.

“The shop is there to sell our craft products that my mum and I make from wool, and products like our Herdwick lamb and mint burgers that everyone says are delicious. Plus, campers can grab a coffee and a croissant in the morning, which saves them having to make their own breakfast or go off site.”

Dan and Ruby took the tenancy on the farm in 2017 – a National Trust property located in the heart of the Lake District National Park – after it had been held by Dan’s parents for 15 years before that.

When the couple took over the farm, they inherited the campsite and holiday cottage and have worked hard to build on these with the gift shop and pizza barn.

Dan also gives farm talks on Tuesday evenings during the holiday season to help inform and educate any guests wanting to learn about traditional hill farming.

He said: “The campsite has been around for many years.

“In fact, we had the old tenants’ grandson come in for pizza the other week. He is now in his 60s and remembers going round the campsite selling milk from the farm with his grandad when he was a young lad.”

Dan added the couple have improved the site by turning the old dairy parlour into a shower block – with the showers located in the cubicles the cows used to stand in to be milked – and putting a freezer for guests to use in the old bottling room.

“We love the campsite and it is a great addition to the farm,” he said.

“We would definitely recommend providing outdoor accommodation to other farmers looking to diversify because it co-exists so well with the farm. The two compliment each other, rather than get in the way.”

Seatoller Farm is set against the stunning backdrop of the Cumbrian fells and provides a fantastic base for hill walkers wanting to explore the area.

The couple market the campsite via popular online booking platform Pitchup.com, which helps ensure it is busy throughout their season, which runs from March to October.

Dan Yates, founder of Pitchup.com, described Seatoller Farm as a first-class example of how tourism and agriculture can co-exist to cement the longer-term future of a farm – particularly smaller hill farms.

He said: “Dan and Ruby are a really inspirational couple. They’re making a real success of the farm itself, which in one of the UK’s highest, wettest, and most remote locations, is no mean feat.

“At the same time, they’re providing amazing holiday opportunities for people to get a real taste of Cumbria – both past and present – through the fantastic local produce they supply, and the farm talks where people can learn all about traditional hill farming.

“Together, these combine to create a great business model that celebrates so much that is wonderful about Cumbria, from the hardy native sheep breeds to the rugged beauty of the landscape.”

Dan added Dan and Ruby’s story shows it is not just farming that is passed down generations, but hospitality, also.

He said: “From the thousands of working farms we have listed on Pitchup.com, we know that many farmers are among the most friendly and welcoming people on earth.

“It’s therefore no surprise to learn about farms like Seatoller which have been offering camping for decades. This kind of diversification is not new and it is fantastic to see young, ambitious, enterprising people like Ruby and Dan building on this tradition and taking it forward for the future.”

For advice on how to set up a farm-based campsite, visit Pitchup’s ‘How to Start a Campsite’ page: https:// www.pitchup.com/how-startcampsite-caravan-park/

Dan Simpson and Ruby Cappleman, who run Seatoller Farm at Borrowdale, with their traditional flock of Herdwick sheep.

Dan Yates, founder of Pitchup.com.

environment

Nuffield Farming report explores how regenerative farming could help the UK reach net zero

Welsh agronomist Chris Taylor NSch 2022 has published his Nuffield Farming report entitled ‘Do regenerative farming practices pave the way for UK agriculture to meet net zero?’, sponsored by McDonald’s UK & Ireland.

The full report is now available on the Nuffield Farming report library and his report video is available on the Nuffield Farming YouTube channel. Chris presented the findings of his research at the 2023 Nuffield Farming Conference in Exeter and a recording of his presentation is also available on the Nuffield Farming YouTube channel.

During his Scholarship, Chris travelled to Canada, United States, Brazil, France, UK, Denmark, and Norway. His primary objective was to understand how to meet net zero whilst maintaining productivity and profitability on farms, while ensuring agriculture is resilient and improving organic matter (carbon) levels in soils.

In his report, he says, “UK agriculture is at the forefront of one of the biggest global challenges in meeting net zero by 2050. Agriculture is, however, well placed as an industry to offset emissions through sequestering carbon in soils in the form of organic matter. With climate change impacts being felt in the form of extreme weather patterns, the other aspect to consider is ensuring UK farms are resilient, both financially and environmentally.”

Chris aimed to identify the main contributing factors of greenhouse gas emissions in UK agriculture and find solutions to mitigate their impact. He evaluated the impact of regenerative practices in areas where they have been practiced for prolonged periods. Chris also explored areas with similar soil types, cropping and climate conditions to the UK to understand what practices could be implemented effectively.

“Meeting net zero won’t be achieved via a single solution or idea but through incremental gains and an industry-wide effort. For farmers, it’s important to understand the carbon balance in their individual businesses, to give clarity and direction for changes to be implemented.

“When fully integrated into a system-based approach, regenerative agriculture offers methods of mitigating these emissions on a path to net zero. When setting net zero as a target for a business, we should not lose sight of other considerations, including environmental, economic and social benefits.”

Study objectives

• Objective 1: Meeting net zero whilst maintaining productivity and profitability on farms.

• Objective 2: Ensuring agriculture is resilient to an ever-changing climate, full of extreme weather events.

• Objective 3: Improving organic matter (carbon) levels in our agricultural soils.

Messages

1. The best time to sample fields for organic matter was 20 years ago, the second-best time is now!

2. Carry out a whole farm, carbon audit to identify areas to target for mitigating greenhouse gas emissions and understand your current sequestration potential.

3. A transition to regenerative farming should be planned thoroughly with a phased

approach that you and your business are comfortable with.

4. Seek guidance and advice from practitioners of regenerative farming to help implement practices that will help your business move forward in a more sustainable manner.

5. In selling carbon credits off the farm, ensure you’re not undermining your potential to hit net zero in your own right in the future.

Partners in Sustainability

The need to achieve carbon reduction targets is driving some innovative thinking about how parts of the food value chain might work together in the future. Dale Turner, Head of Value Chain Partnerships at Yara UK, discusses the need for collaboration across the supply chain, establishing partnerships, and Yara’s holistic approach to meeting the challenges that agriculture is facing.

Challenges around producing food sustainably are front of mind for all the key players in the supply chain from fertiliser producers to farm businesses, and food companies. While each has a crucial role, there’s a growing need to work together to solve current and future issues. “We have spent time as a company gathering insights and feedback from across the industry, which has certainly confirmed that there is an appetite to start exploring new ways of working and new business models. That’s why we have started taking steps to focus on this new and exciting part of the market,” says Dale.

Yara has seized the opportunity to work more closely with others in the supply chain. The company has recently formed partnerships in the UK with family-owned malting company Simpsons Malt and food and drink giant, PepsiCo Europe. As part of the collaboration with Simpsons Malt, Yara is helping to develop low carbon barley while the PepsiCo initiative is centered around providing farmers with crop nutrition programmes to help decarbonise the food chain.

Towards collaborative discussions

Buy-in from all stakeholders, particularly farmers, is the key to building successful partnerships and developing new ways of working. “Farmers are vital to successful partnerships. They’re the ones who are producing the crops and having to deal with challenges in the field. I

think for any initiative to be successful, it’s important that all the key stakeholders are involved and understand their place and position with any partnership. There has to be a win-win scenario for the parties involved too; it has to be truly collaborative if it’s going to work,” adds Dale.

For farmers in particular, working in partnership with others across the supply chain could to some extent insure against the turbulence caused by factors such as changing weather patterns. Having multiple parties involved in a partnership from farming up to food company level means the discussion goes beyond individual concerns and becomes more open and collaborative. This facilitates the development of innovative approaches and solutions to

address and mitigate the risks facing UK agriculture.

Building partnerships for the future

What Yara is bringing to the table in its partnership discussions is a holistic approach to delivering a lower carbon solution within value chains. “We offer a full solution, whether through our climate change range of low carbon fertilisers, our YaraVita micronutrient offering, our YaraAmplix biostimulant offering, or through the work we’re doing within our organicbased offering. That is then backed up with our agronomic knowledge, digital tools and services,” says Dale.

Alongside these solutions, knowledge-sharing and engagement with others in the supply chain play an

important role in Yara’s plans for a more collaborative future. “We’re open about the areas we’re working on, and we’ve been successful so far in the initiatives where we’ve started to work closely in a partnership approach, and we’ve begun to tackle some of those issues together.

“We feel very confident as a company in terms of bringing a deliverable, practical solution to the table to start tackling a range of issues that UK agriculture faces. That’s something we’re putting into practice already. We’ve delivered the first tonnes of low carbon fertilisers into the UK this year. We are making a positive impact through the various partnerships and that’s something we will continue to develop as an industry leader,” concludes Dale.

renewable energy

‘Electric Cow’ lands at Askham Bryan College

Askham Bryan College installs a 22kw Biolectric farm scale anaerobic digester, the project has been aptly named “The Electric Cow”

Askham Bryan College installs a 22kw Biolectric farm scale anaerobic digester, the project has been aptly named “The Electric Cow”

Askham Bryan College, a leader in agricultural education, has taken a significant step towards sustainability with the installation of a Biolectric farm scale anaerobic digester located at the on-campus dairy farm. This innovative addition is not just a technological upgrade; it’s a testament to the college’s commitment to eco-friendly farming practices and renewable energy education.

Funding to support this scheme has been allocated from the York and North Yorkshire Net Zero Fund. This fund is led by the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority, using investment secured from the UK Government.

Westfield Farm is an integral part of the college, milking 170 cows; and is well equipped with a wide selection of machinery, alongside a state-of-the-art robotic milking parlour facilities for both commercial and educational purposes.

Harnessing Renewable Energy from Dairy Waste

At the heart of this project is the Biolectric anaerobic digester, a cutting-edge system designed to convert organic waste into valuable renewable energy. Specifically tailored for farm scale operations, this digester processes slurry—a mixture of manure and water— produced by the college’s dairy herd. Through a natural process of anaerobic digestion, where organic material is broken down in

the absence of oxygen, the system generates biogas. This biogas is then used to produce electricity and heat, reducing the farm’s reliance on external energy sources and cutting down on greenhouse gas emissions associated with methane.

Sustainability in Action

The installation of the Biolectric digester aligns perfectly with the college’s broader goals of sustainability and environmental stewardship. By converting waste into energy, the college is not only managing its dairy farm’s waste more efficiently but also setting an example for sustainable agricultural practices. The system’s byproduct, known as digestate, is a nutrient-rich substance that can be used as a natural fertilizer, further enhancing the farm’s sustainability by reducing the need for chemical fertilizers.

Educational Benefits for Students

One of the most exciting aspects of this project is the

educational opportunities it provides for students. Askham Bryan College is renowned for its hands-on approach to agricultural education, and the new anaerobic digester offers students a unique opportunity to learn about renewable energy and waste management technologies firsthand. Students can observe and study the entire process— from the collection of slurry to the production of biogas and the use of digestate as fertilizer—gaining practical knowledge that will be invaluable in their future careers.

A Model for the Future of Farming

The Biolectric digester is more than just an investment in technology; it’s an investment in the future of farming. As the agricultural industry faces increasing pressure to reduce its environmental impact, the college is leading by example, demonstrating how modern technology can be harnessed to create sustainable, energyefficient farming operations.

This initiative not only supports the college’s educational mission, but also positions the college as a model for other agricultural institutions looking to adopt renewable energy solutions. It shows how traditional farming practices can be adapted to meet the challenges of the 21st century, ensuring that farming remains both productive and sustainable.

Looking Ahead

With the successful installation of the Biolectric anaerobic digester, Askham Bryan College is setting a new standard for sustainability in agricultural education. As the system becomes fully operational, it will provide ongoing benefits to the college, its students, and the wider community, all while reducing the farm’s carbon footprint and advancing the college’s environmental goals.

In the years to come, the college’s dairy farm will not only produce high-quality dairy products but will also be a hub

for innovation and sustainability, leading the way towards a greener future for the agricultural industry.

Whether you’re a student, educator, or farmer, the installation of this anaerobic digester is a powerful reminder of the importance of integrating

renewable energy technologies into our farming practices. The college continues to inspire and educate the next generation of farmers, ensuring that they are well-equipped to face the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly changing world.

Askham Bryan College have joined the Race to Zero, a global campaign in the education sector for a Zero Carbon World, and are committed to becoming a net zero organisation and a leader in sustainability practices by 2050. You can read more about

our progress and commitments via the Streamlined Energy and Carbon ReportOpens link in new window.

Find out more information about Biolectric and dairy energy via their website: www. dairyenergy.co.uk

Cap and floor to attract investment in renewable energy storage

The Department for Energy Security and Net-Zero (DESNZ) has announced it will proceed with a new investment scheme that will support the development of Long Duration Electricity Storage (LDES), such as pumped storage hydro.

The announcement follows a consultation held earlier this year where Scottish Renewables supported a ‘cap and floor’ scheme to encourage investment in LDES. The cap and floor model announced by DESNZ provides a

guaranteed minimum income for developers, in return for a limit on revenues.

Ofgem has agreed to act as regulator and delivery body and the scheme’s first round is expected to be open to applicants next year.

Responding, Andrew MacNish Porter, Head of Economics and Markets at Scottish Renewables, said:

“We are pleased that DESNZ has confirmed a cap and floor scheme will be introduced to

support investment in longduration electricity storage, such as pumped storage hydro.

“As we deploy more renewable energy, long duration storage is essential for ensuring clean power generated by renewables can be stored for when we need it most.

“The cap and floor scheme will bring forward investment in these vital projects so they can begin delivering benefits to consumers and providing new jobs and economic growth across Scotland.

“We are encouraged that Ofgem has been appointed as the delivery partner for the cap and floor as we recommended in our response to the UK Government’s consultation earlier this year.

“We now urge Ofgem to move swiftly in developing the details of the cap and floor scheme. With support from industry, Ofgem must act with urgency to ensure that cap and floor is implemented as soon as possible to allow shovel ready pumped storage hydro projects in Scotland to begin construction.”

Cabinet Secretary welcomes new high for renewable electricity generation in Scotland

Response to National Statistics publication

Quarterly energy statistics published recently show that in the first half of 2024, Scotland generated the most renewable electricity in the first half of any year.

Scotland’s renewable electricity generation in 2024 quarter 2 was 7,312 Gigawatt hours (GWh) – a 27.9% increase from 5,716 GWh generated in the same quarter in 2023. In

the first half of 2024, Scotland generated 18,084 GWh of renewable electricity, up 13.7% on 2023 and above the previous high recorded in the first half of 2022.

Acting Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Energy Gillian Martin said:

“These are hugely encouraging figures, with the long-term trend showing

a significant increase in the amount of renewable electricity generated in Scotland.

“Renewable energy capacity has also increased by 5% since June last year, and there are currently more than 800 renewable electricity projects, with an estimated capacity of more than 50 Gigawatts (GW), in the planning and construction pipeline. This underlines the

potential of our energy transition to support high quality green jobs.

“Scotland’s total final energy consumption continues to fall and was 18% lower in 2022 than the baseline figure from 2005 – 2007. This combination of reduced consumption and greater renewables capacity will be essential to delivering our Net Zero ambitions.”

LAMMA Show 2025: The Ultimate Showcase for Agricultural Innovation

Get Your Free Ticket Today!

Attention all farmers, farm managers, and agricultural professionals! The UK’s largest and most influential exhibition for agricultural machinery, technology, and equipment innovation is returning for another exciting edition. The LAMMA Show 2025 is set to take place on 15-16 January 2025 at the NEC Birmingham, and registration is

now open for your free ticket. This event promises to be bigger and better than ever, featuring exclusive machinery launches, cutting-edge technologies, and expert seminars that will help shape the future of farming.

Why Attend LAMMA 2025?

LAMMA is not just an exhibition; it’s the ultimate destination for

those looking to stay ahead in the agricultural industry. With over 40,000 visitors and 600+ exhibitors expected to attend, LAMMA 2025 offers you a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the latest developments in farming. Here’s why you simply can’t afford to miss it:

Discover Innovation

Agricultural machinery is evolving faster than ever, and LAMMA 2025 will be at the forefront of showcasing these innovations. From tractors and combines to arable machinery and grassland equipment, this year’s event will feature the best in agricultural advancements from both global brands and niche manufacturers. Expect to see exclusive machinery launches, UK debuts, and the latest tech designed to improve efficiency, productivity, and sustainability on your farm.

Notable brands like JCB, Fendt, Massey Ferguson, and New Holland will be present,

offering a first-hand look at their newest products and innovations. These aren’t just static displays either, at LAMMA, you can watch live demonstrations and engage directly with the experts who created these groundbreaking machines.

Network with Industry Leaders

LAMMA 2025 isn’t just about machines; it’s about people. This is a key networking event for the agricultural sector, offering the opportunity to meet industry leaders, suppliers, consultants, and fellow farmers. Whether you’re looking to strike up partnerships, share insights, or just have a chat with like-minded professionals, LAMMA is the place to be.

Connecting with exhibitors and attendees from across the UK and beyond will give you a broader perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing the industry. It’s not only a chance to exchange ideas but also a valuable opportunity to learn from the experiences of others

and bring fresh inspiration back to your business.

Gain Knowledge from Industry Experts

One of the highlights of LAMMA 2025 will be its comprehensive seminar and workshop programme. Thought leaders from across the agricultural sector will share their expertise on emerging trends, future technologies, and market conditions, helping you future-proof your farming operations. From sustainability in agriculture to the adoption of AI and automation, these sessions will arm you with the tools and knowledge you need to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving landscape.

Sarah Whittaker-Smith, Event Director of LAMMA, highlighted the importance of this learning opportunity: “LAMMA is the UK’s premier platform for agricultural machinery and innovation, and we’re excited to open pre-registration for the 2025 event. With more exhibitors and exciting product debuts than ever before, this year’s show will be a must-visit for anyone involved in farming.”

The Return of the Demo Arena

The much-loved LAMMA Demo Arena is back and better than ever in 2025! Here, you’ll have the chance to see the latest equipment in action, with live demonstrations of cutting-edge machinery. Manufacturers like JCB and Valtra will talk you through their newest developments and demonstrate how their equipment can transform your farming operations. If you want to see the future of farming machinery in action, the Demo Arena is where you need to be.

Exclusive Product Launches

LAMMA is renowned for being the launchpad of industrychanging innovations. In previous years, we’ve seen major brands introduce game-changing equipment such as Krone’s GX Wagon in 2023 and McCormick’s X6 Tractor in 2022. For LAMMA 2025, even more exciting product

debuts are expected, making it the epicentre of new releases that could transform the way you work on your farm.

Whether you’re interested in machinery, smart technology, or new farm management systems, LAMMA is the perfect place to get a sneak peek at what’s coming next.

Who Should Attend?

LAMMA 2025 is designed for anyone involved in agriculture, from farm owners to industry professionals. Here’s a breakdown of why different attendees should be at LAMMA:

• Farm Owners and Managers: Stay informed about the latest market trends and technologies to help keep your operations competitive. Learn about emerging methods, tools, and equipment that can improve productivity and profitability.

• Industry Professionals and Consultants: Get the insights you need to offer better recommendations and guidance to your clients. Attending LAMMA will ensure you’re equipped with the most upto-date knowledge about new innovations in the field.

• Researchers and Students: Dive deep into the latest technologies and innovations that are shaping the agricultural industry. The seminars and workshops offer a unique chance to understand the practical applications of cutting-edge research and technology.

Explore Job Opportunities

at the LAMMA Careers Zone

If you’re looking for career opportunities in the agricultural sector, don’t miss the LAMMA Careers Zone. Launched in 2024 by Jobs in Agriculture, this area is dedicated to showcasing a wide range of job opportunities and offering career guidance. Whether you’re a recruiter looking for talent or a job seeker eager to find your next role, the Careers Zone will have something for you.

As part of the Farmers Guardian family, Jobs in Agriculture aims to connect individuals with exciting roles

in the industry. Whether you’re fresh out of university or looking for a new challenge, the Careers Zone will provide you with valuable insights into the diverse opportunities available in agriculture.

Event Details:

• Dates: Wednesday, 15 January 2025: 8.00am-6.00pm Thursday, 16 January 2025: 8.00am-4.30pm

• Location: NEC, Birmingham

• Free Ticket Registration: Head to lammashow.com to register for your free ticket now!

Don’t Miss Out—Register Today!

LAMMA 2025 is the must-attend event for anyone serious about staying at the cutting edge of agriculture. With exclusive product launches, live demonstrations, networking opportunities, and expert-led seminars, this is your chance to explore the future of farming in one place.

Secure your free ticket today and mark your calendar for January 15-16, 2025. Join the agricultural community at LAMMA 2025 and drive the future of your farm forward!

Over 30 years supplying the agricultural industry –

a family story!

Terrington Machinery Ltd are a family owned and run company, founded in the mid 80’s by Brian Coleman.

After 25 years as a farm and growing manager, an opportunity to supply machinery to the horticultural and vegetable sector became available so Brian set up Coleman Enterprises which was the original trading name of Terrington Machinery.

After a few years of selling, demonstrating and showing machinery at various trade shows, in 1991 Brian was approached by a representative of an Austrian company called Einbock looking for a UK importer for their range of machinery. Having already been selling machinery into the organic sector the Einbock range of mechanical weed control machines would benefit and be of use to Terringtons existing customer base. An agreement was made

and the first Einbock Aerostar Tined Weeder was brought into the UK, demonstrated and sold in Herefordshire.

After a few years of selling the Einbock Aerostars around the country a request for a demonstration on grass was requested by a customer and after only a few passes on a field, the machine was sold. That was really the moment when things changed. Realising the massive potential for grass farmers, the Grass-Manager was designed which all in all is basically the same machine as the Aerostar but with some adaptions, such as 4 x depth control wheels and larger diameter tines.

After major interest at various trade shows from dealers around

the country a dealer network began to be formed and Terrington Machinery now has over 60 dealers with thousands of machines being sold and delivered to dealers and customers the length and breadth of the country.

Things really started to change further when, after a few years of sales of the GrassManager, Einbock decided to add a Pneumatic Seeder Box to the Grass-Manager which was the next step in the grassland care range. Again, after demonstrating the new ‘Pneumaticstar Seeder’ it was received with great interest from dealers and customers and now, some 30 years later the Grass-Managers and Pneumaticstar Seeders are still sold in great numbers all over

the UK, with 95% still assembled and PDI checked and delivered mostly by Terringtons own transport.

Nowadays, although Terrington Machinery attend most of the major trade shows and regular dealer open days, we still get pleasure from talking to and welcoming new customers. It is thanks to the dealer network that the Einbock machines are still as popular as ever and of course, although the Einbock grassland care range has increased over the years to include new and different models of machines, Einbock will always be known as the ‘original’ grassland Harrows and Seeders.

Over the last few years, we have seen a massive increase

Pnuematicstar Pro Chopstar Prime

of interest in mechanical weed control in cereals and other crops so Terrington have returned to the original days of major interest for mechanical weed control but now mainly from conventional farmers, not just the organic sector With Einbock having the largest product range in Europe for mechanical weed control, Terrington Machinery are in a position to get the correct machine for the customers requirements.

There are now the original Aerostar Classic, Aerostar Exact, Aerostar Rotation, Aerostar Fusion and Rotarystar available in the tined weeder range.

The inter-row hoeing machinery range are available in many different models. All available with optional extras like the Row Guard Camera Guidance System, Section Control, Seeder Boxes, Fertiliser applicators etc.

Terrington Machinery have most of these machines available for on the farm demonstrations.

The full range of machinery can be viewed at www.einboeck.at

For the last few years Terrington Machinery Ltd has been run by David Coleman, Brians son, who has worked for Terrington Machinery from the start so there isn’t much about the business that David doesn’t know. Davids wife, Debbie is the company secretary and is in control of all the companys accounts etc.

As we move towards 2025, Terrington Machinery look forward to a bright future with the next generation working within the company with both Steven (Davids son) and Ashley (David and Debbies son-in-law) also working for the company over the last few years and taking up differing roles as time progresses.

Of course, it would not be right without mentioning Brian Coleman. Although mostly retired, he does still have a semi active role within the company giving advice and guidance

when asked for from his vast experience within the industry and on odd occasions attending a few trade shows with the company to keep up to date with the latest trends and of course to see some of his original customers.

Terrington Machinery still import and sell the specialised machinery that they originally started with in the mid 80’s from companies around Europe,

mainly Egedal, Robot Werken and Badalini.

Egedal being the main supplier of specialist machinery for the horticultural tree growing industry, from seed drills, bare root planters up to a range of lifters and harvesters.

Terrington Machinery also now supply Egedals range of specialist Christmas tree production machinery that can be viewed at www.egedal.dk

Aerostar Classic

Precision Pollination project is a step towards better food security

A groundbreaking project aimed at exploring the role drone technology can play in improving yield, fruit quality and forecasting in UK strawberry production is a pivotal step towards enhancing food security.

The project, ‘Precision Pollination for Higher Strawberry Productivity and Quality’, offers a strong consortium comprising the UK Agri-Tech Centre, Angus Soft Fruits and Polybee, with funding support from Innovate UK.

This combines expert berry growers from the UK, agri-tech innovation and development specialists and a Singaporean partner with expertise in using innovative drone technology for pollination and crop imaging.

Fresh Strawberries are a high value crop in the UK, worth £377m in 2022, over 30% of the total UK fruit value (Defra, 2023).

Most commercial UK crops are grown under protection in structures such as polytunnels or glasshouses to provide optimal conditions for the plants to grow and fruit to develop.

Two measures that determine the success of a strawberry

crop for the growers and their customers are the quantity and quality of fruit produced.

Fruit being supplied to retailer customers must meet specifications in terms of fruit size and shape, both of which are strongly influenced by pollination.

If a strawberry flower is not successfully pollinated it does not develop into a class 1 fruit suitable for sale.

Protected growing environments pose challenges with pollination of flowers by natural means, and commercial growers rely on the introduction of beehives into tunnels.

These hives contain native species of bumblebees or honeybees and, even when pollinators are introduced to strawberry crops, there are situations when weather conditions or crop stage result in sub-optimal pollination leading to economic losses through a drop in yield or fruit quality.

Singaporean company, Polybee, has developed drone technology to aid pollination in food crops using changes in airflow to assist pollen movement around the flowers.

The aim of this project is to introduce this technology into commercial UK strawberry crops with a view to improving the success and uniformity of flower pollination, especially at critical stages of the season when poor pollination can lead to reductions in yield and fruit quality, and a subsequent drop in crop margins.

By improving pollination, this project aims to benefit strawberry growers through improved yields of top-tier class 1 and premium fruit, and the potential to extend the UK production season.

Katie Clark, Project Manager at the UK Agi-Tech Centre, said: “As the Project Manager for ‘Precision Pollination for Higher Strawberry Productivity and Quality,’ I am thrilled to be involved in this pioneering initiative that brings together expertise from across the global agri-tech sector and the UK soft fruit industry.

“This project represents a critical step towards leveraging innovative drone technology to enhance strawberry yield and fruit quality, addressing the challenges of pollination in protected growing environments.

“By combining cuttingedge drone solutions with the knowledge of leading growers and agri-tech specialists, we aim to drive meaningful advancements in food security and sustainability for the UK and beyond.”

Lucy Wilkins, Breeding Programme Director at Angus Soft Fruits, commented: “We are excited to be part of this innovative collaboration with Polybee and the UK Agri-Tech Centre.

“Enhancing pollination by integrating advanced technology alongside bumblebees promises significant benefits for our growers, ultimately improving yields of Class 1 and premiumtier strawberries.

“By bringing together experts from across the agricultural technology sector and our progressive berry growers, we anticipate meaningful improvements in both fruit quality and overall yield.”

The benefits of this work will extend beyond the growers to their marketing groups and retail customers through increased production and surety of supply of high-quality fruit.

Farmers encouraged to secure their farms with solar-powered CCTV systems

BarleyGroupCloud and Hikvision have joined forces to create a solution for securing remote areas with solar-powered security systems.

The companies said that protecting rural sites has long been a difficult balance between efficient deployment and consistent coverage.

A spokesperson for the partnership added: “In the past, surveillance technology was primitive in comparison to the advancements made in industries such as agriculture and construction.

“Modern day problems require modern day solutions, and that has been the vision for BarleyGroupCloud since day one: providing small to medium sized enterprises with the tools they need to develop, nurture and thrive.

“Now partnering with Hikvision and their new range of solar cameras, rural defence has never looked this good.”

Reimagining surveillance Hikvision experts explained that the main barrier when it comes to CCTV deployment in the countryside is terrain.

Rural sites include forested areas, water features, varied topography, and at times are located within great distances from main power networks or cities.

Often a trade-off needs to be made between protecting farmers’ properties and having a low footprint/keeping cost to a minimum, the company added.

BarleyGroupCloud said that thanks to the great minds at Hikvision, this is no longer an issue.

“With built in olar technology, 4G connectivity, high-definition video and flexible installation, your site can be protected in a matter of minutes.

“The devices themselves contain a built in SIM slot for wireless connections and remote access. The panel itself powers the unit during the day and the integrated, long-life battery, allows the unit to remain active 24/7, rain or shine.

“Additionally, unlike similar products, these models come with IP67-rated protection, allowing them to withstand any and all weather conditions, ensuring year-round protection and reliability.

“On top of everything, the installation process is as simple as choosing and spot and mounting the bracket. This could be an outbuilding, trees or any structure you like, with no need for running expensive cables or installing additional infrastructure.

Next issue out January 2025

“Then, you can access the camera feed directly from your smartphone or computer from anywhere in the world, at any time. Simple, efficient and reliable,” the experts added.

DeLaval Plus Behaviour Analysis empowers better decision-making

New data sensor solution uses AI-technology to provide cow health alerts by tracking cow movement.

DeLaval Plus Behaviour Analysis is the latest farm management tool from DeLaval. The system uses data sensors to record each animal’s behaviour, analyses each cow’s data using artificial intelligence (AI) and helps dairy producers identify sick cows and cows in heat.

DeLaval Plus Behaviour Analysis can also track cows’ movement to help find cows that need attention. Daily updates and real-time information are delivered digitally to help with herd management.

“By responding to a cow quickly and with the right action, producers can drive the performance of their farm by increasing cow productivity and welfare,” said Scott Patrick, Country commercial manager GB.

“Producers with DeLaval Plus Behaviour Analysis in their farm management toolbox have total visibility and oversight of their cows,” he adds.

The system uses new DeLaval BioSensor ear tags which automatically communicate with housing sensors. The data is shared with DeLaval DeepBlue, an AI-based software which analyses the information using sophisticated

models of cow behaviour. This provides state-of-the-art heat detection, rumination and eating

behaviour calculations to enable better, faster and more accurate decision-making.

Estrus intensity’s role in maximizing cattle breeding success

Monitoring estrus intensity in cattle helps optimize reproduction and can be done efficiently with visual estrus detection aids.

Estrus is one of the most important indicators of whether a cow or heifer will be successfully bred. However, not all estrus cycles are the same for individual females within a herd.

“Some cows will display estrus with less intensity for a shorter duration; they won’t walk around or be ridden as much,” says Ronaldo Cerri, Ph.D., animal reproduction professor at the University of British Columbia in Canada. “A cow in high estrus intensity typically has longer estrus and very intense physical activity that can be monitored.”

Cerri’s research works to improve cattle fertility by identifying which cows and heifers are the best candidates to breed using tactics like artificial

insemination (AI) and embryo transfer (ET), with estrus intensity as the deciding factor.

Cattle have typical baseline activity when they aren’t in estrus. When they start to enter estrus, their activity rises as the intensity of the estrus increases. Pinpointing when estrus is about to peak is crucial to a successful pregnancy.

Make breeding decisions obvious

After analyzing extensive data from estrus detection sensors, Cerri and other researchers have pinpointed patterns based on what’s occurring during estrus.

“The patterns are very consistent in many of the studies we do,” says Cerri. “Cows with lower estrus intensity always display less physical activity, but they also have lower pregnancy rates. On the flip side, cows with high estrus intensity display more activity and have higher pregnancy rates.”

Studies across the United States, Canada, Brazil and Germany have all shown this same trend.

Cows exhibiting low estrus intensity tend to have lower concentrations of progesterone during the growth of the ovulatory follicle and fail to ovulate more

often than those with high estrus intensity. Similarly, ET recipients that show high estrus intensity have more consistent pregnancy results.

“Estrus intensity serves as a quality marker for a good cycle that leads to a better pregnancy via AI and ET,” says Cerri.

Celebrating 25 years of Newquip in North Yorkshire

Newquip is excited to be turning 25 next year. Launched by the Dye family in January 2000, the company has grown and evolved over the years, but its roots remain firmly in North Yorkshire as a family-run business.

The contract was signed to exclusively deliver and install Big Dutchman pig and poultry equipment here in mainland UK. Newquip quickly established a name for itself as the leading UK supplier of animal-friendly production systems for egg, poultry and pig production, designed with their welfare, user friendliness and longevity in mind.

Originally based in Melmerby near Ripon, a decision was taken in 2009 to relocate to Leeming Bar Business Park to facilitate expansion. The opening of the new office and warehouse, NQ1, was celebrated by hosting a customer open day. With the need for increased warehouse space to store spare parts, a second warehouse, NQ2, was added the following year to mark the company’s 10th anniversary.

Having completed thousands of installations across the country, Newquip continued to build on its success, thanks to a hands-on team of talented individuals, many of whom are still with the company today.

A third warehouse, NQ3, was opened in 2019, providing a total of over 65,000sq.ft. across the three warehouse sites.

In a bid to provide a complete solution for egg handling and processing, partnerships were formed with Kletec and Sanovo, both based in The Netherlands. By harnessing the latest innovations in packing, grading and robotics, Newquip was able to position itself to cater for the future needs of pig and poultry producers.

When Covid struck in 2020, it was business as usual, which presented numerous challenges for the Newquip team. Whilst some workers needed to be furloughed, others were required to work under strict social distancing measures. It was testament to the hard work and commitment of the dedicated

staff that Newquip was able to continue with projects as planned and deliver essential spare parts promptly to customers.

Newquip now has over 35 staff on the payroll and an annual turnover of around £30m. With plans in the pipeline to celebrate its 25th anniversary next year, the company is focused on continuing to deliver for its valued customers.

Managing Director Adam Dye said, “By keeping a close

eye on the latest innovations that help to drive efficiency in our industry, Newquip has been able to stay ahead of the curve. We are currently exploring new ways to repurpose manure, as well as the benefits of air scrubbing to reduce the environmental impact of vital local food production. We would like to take this opportunity to thank our customers and suppliers for their valued cooperation over the last 25 years.”

Beef Shorthorn Stalwarts Welcome HRH the Princess Royal to Breed Development Day

It was a picture-perfect day for the recent Beef Shorthorn Development Day with masters of the breed, Charles and Sally Horrell along with son Harry, welcoming HRH the Princess Royal to Podehole Farm with over 100 fellow breed enthusiasts in attendance.

The day saw a jam-packed schedule with breeders travelling the length and breadth of the country to hear from a number of experts covering topics on performance recording, linear classification, soil health and pelvic scoring.

The afternoon of events started off with the attendance of HRH the Princess Royal, where she was welcomed by the Horrell family to the farm, which has been home to the renowned Podhole herd since 1997 before joining guests to present this year’s National Herd Competition award to winners, Geoff and Chris Riby from the Stonehill herd, Yorkshire.

HRH the Princess Royal acknowledged breeders for their hard work and dedication which has resulted in a vast

development of the breed over the last number of years as well as highlighting the work alongside Morrisons, helping make the Beef Shorthorn one of Britain’s fastest growing native breeds.

Guests were then spilt into four workshop group with HRH the Princess Royal overlooking various parts of each workshop during the tour of the farm with Charles and Beef Shorthorn president Tim Riley.

Sally Horrell said “It was a real privilege to welcome HRH the Princess Royal to Podhole with her enthusiasm and knowledge of the breed being apparent throughout the day.

“It was lovely to see her speak with fellow breeders and show interest in their different herds, businesses and passions as well as what we do here at Podhole.”

Chairman of the Scottish Beef Shorthorn Club Vic Watson

said: “We were delighted to be welcomed to Podhole for the Development Day as part of our Scottish Club tour in the area

and it was great to see the herd, which is undoubtedly one of the top Beef Shorthorn herds in the country.

“Charles and Sally are a credit to the breed along with stockman Roy and always make time to speak to new and old members.”

Timac Agro launches new range of granular feed supplements

A new range of feed supplements has launched by Timac Agro UK, based on the formulations of its innovative livestock nutrition blocks, designed to aid feed efficiency in cows, sheep and goats.

Available now, Spadea Rumen G and Spadea Fix’N G are two micro-granulated mineral supplements, formulated specifically to buffer the rumen and enhance the efficiency of feed utilisation.

David Newton, technical product manager at Timac Agro

UK says: “Managing livestock diets with these supplements, particularly during stressful periods, with high-energy diets or during any dietary transition, plays a key part in maintaining production, preventing illness and deficiencies.”

With the inclusion of yeast and probiotic extracts, Spadea Rumen allows animals to maximise high-fibre or acidogenic diets and buffer rumen pH.

Mr Newton explains: “In a range of trials, Spadea Rumen, is proven to increase the digestibility of different types of forage.

“Trials included analysing the digestibility of grass silage, maize silage, lucerne and straw in dairy cows, with digestibility of fibres increasing by up to 11.4%.”

Spadea Fix’N is formulated as a nutritional supplement to slow down the transit of soluble nitrogen through the gut to optimise absorption and therefore protein production while minimising impact on fertility.

“Patented technology within the supplement protects gut bacteria, absorbs excess N and releases back into the digestive system more slowly, avoiding the need for excretion as urea,”

FARMING SCOTLAND

Three Big Wins for Scotland’s Red Meat Industry: Our Recent Highlights

QMS is here to support Scotland’s red meat industry and make our premium products the choice for people at home and beyond.

I’m pleased to share some of our most exciting recent deliveries which are part of this vision and raising the profile of Scotch Beef, Scotch Lamb, and Specially Selected Pork:

1. New Marketing Campaign: Our latest marketing campaign, ‘When You Know, You Know,’ has taken centre stage, showcasing the exceptional quality of livestock born and reared in Scotland. This campaign educates consumers about the benefits of choosing Scotch Beef, Scotch Lamb, and Specially Selected Pork, with a message that goes beyond the label. From farm to fork, it highlights the care and world-class standards that make our red meat second to none. Running

across prime-time TV, impactful billboards, social media, and more, our campaign is helping consumers understand the true Scotch Difference.

2. Rugby Partnership: In a landmark collaboration, QMS has partnered with Glasgow Warriors and Edinburgh Rugby to launch an educational programme promoting the benefits of premium red meat. This initiative supports young athletes, families, and communities in making informed dietary choices, with a focus on Scotch Beef, Scotch Lamb, and Specially Selected Pork as key sources of nutrition. Together, we’re helping athletes perform at their best on and off the field, while also shining a spotlight on Scotland’s farming heritage.

3. Universal Cookery and Food Festival (UCFF) Sponsorship: As a

gold sponsor of UCFF, we are proud to be engaging with top chefs and food professionals, showcasing the quality and sustainability of our Scotch brands. Our presence at this prestigious event allows us to connect with culinary leaders and encourage the use of Scotch Beef, Scotch Lamb, and Specially Selected Pork in top kitchens across the UK.

This is just a snapshot of our commitment to elevating Scotland’s red meat industry and we’ve got lots planned for the rest of the year including supporting Scottish exporters at major international trade show, SIAL in Paris. Whether through inspiring consumers, supporting athletes, or connecting with food professionals, we’re proud to represent the best of Scottish farming.

UK farmer survey launched to understand on-farm impact from bluetongue

The livestock industry has come together to launch a nationwide survey to better understand the impact of bluetongue virus on UK farms.

Led by Fiona Lovatt of Flock Health Limited, and the Ruminant Health & Welfare bluetongue working group, the survey is being conducted in collaboration with AHDB and the University of Nottingham and has the backing of key industry organisations.

“We know farmers across the country, in and out of the restricted zone, are at the coal face, dealing with daily challenges and disruption due to the BTV-3 outbreak,” says Fiona.

“We want to make sure their experiences and the impact on their animals are captured,” she adds.

The survey will provide a clearer picture of what is happening on UK farms so that we can better support affected

farmers and prepare for the future.

“We need to find out what level of clinical signs farmers are seeing in their animals, whether they are experiencing mortality with BTV-3 cases, and what their appetite is to vaccinate in future for bluetongue serotype 3,” explains Fiona.

“It’s important to note this survey is fully anonymous, so hopefully farmers feel they can share everything they have seen that might be relevant.”

The short online survey is open to all livestock farmers, whether they have experienced confirmed cases of bluetongue on their farm or not. It aims to gather data on the number of animals affected, the severity of clinical signs, and the wider impacts on farm businesses.

Farmers are urged to take part in the survey, which can be accessed at https://bit.ly/ BTV3survey.

£1m Investment for Borderway Auction Mart

In planning for its future growth, Harrison & Hetherington marks the 50th anniversary of their flagship Borderway Mart complex in Carlisle with the announcement of a £1 million investment for the erection of a state of the art new roof.

Already one of the largest and most important livestock trading

hubs in the UK, Borderway Mart is to be given a £1 million new roof that will extend the current coverage of the auction mart complex in Carlisle and create room for further growth as Harrison & Hetherington continues to expand operations in the future.

The 2,000 square metre double span roof will replace

the original low roof of the mart Harrison & Hetherington established when they moved to the Borderway site on Rosehill Industrial Estate exactly 50 years ago. In the company’s ongoing mission to improve the Borderway facility for H&H customers and enhance its reputation as a leading national

livestock trading hub, the new roof will be higher and wider and is specifically designed to create more space and allow significantly greater airflows and natural light access throughout the complex.

As the number of livestock coming through Borderway continues to rise, improving

efficiency, managing livestock flow and safeguarding animal health and welfare are the key drivers in the company’s decision to make this major investment, says Harrison & Hetherington Managing Director, Scott Donaldson:

“Borderway’s location beside the M6 has always been a cornerstone of our reputation and success in attracting buyers and sellers from the length and breadth of the UK. In 1974 there would be in excess of 500 head of cattle going through the Borderway ring in a day, and a milestone day would reach towards 2,000. Fifty years on, a busy Monday consists of 500 prime cattle and cast cows and 7000 prime, cast and store sheep, with a busy Wednesday seeing 2000 forward store cattle, weanlings, young calves and dairy cattle through four rings.

“Today we are seeing in the region of £250 million’s worth of livestock bought and

sold annually. In addition to the major pedigree sales we conduct throughout the year, we also host major national livestock shows including our Borderway Agri and UK Dairy Expo’s, which together draw hundreds

of thousands of pounds worth of cattle and sheep to be exhibited here from across the UK.

“This new roof will take space, air quality, and light to a whole new level both for the livestock and for the people who buy and

sell here. It is also a perfect way to mark our 50th milestone year here at Borderway, and it’s a very tangible commitment to the future of Harrison & Hetherington, our clients and customers, and to the wonderful industry we serve.”

Alternative solutions for a sustainable poultry farming are possible

The European Union imports a large quantity of raw materials of the livestock feeding sector, especially soybean (85% of the soybean, 24% of corn and 8% of wheat and corn consumed), reaching almost 14 million tons of soya beans per year. The materials imported to feed our animals have a huge impact on climate change and

on the reduction of the regional breeding autonomy.

Starting from these premises the European SUSTAvianFEED project presents tangible approaches for a more sustainable livestock sector, by focusing on innovative and sustainable poultry feedings programs.

Over the past few years, the project, which has engaged

universities, research centers and producer communities in Spain, Italy, Tunisia and Turkey, has focused on finding alternatives that can offer animal feed that is both innovative and sustainable, providing new tools to small local agricultural economies in Mediterranean areas and strengthening their resilience. The project focuses mainly on

local breeds, better adapted to their native climates, which are particularly advantageous for small-scale agriculture, even of marginalized contexts, where they can generate additional income and provide food for small local communities.

The core idea is to emphasize the creation of an innovative nutritional formula for poultry

farming, with insects playing a key role in a model of circular economy. The main objectives are the reduction of the environmental impact of livestock food, the improvement of animal welfare and health and the promotion of a multiactor’s approach, boosting gender equality and women empowerment.

Major investment drives growth for iLivestock

Duradiamond Software, trading as the livestock management platform, iLivestock, has received a significant investment to commercialise its offering and help more farmers access affordable monitoring technology.

Ewen Wardman, iLivestock CEO, says the business, which is already supporting beef and sheep farmers in the UK, South Africa and Argentina, has secured £1.15 million from Kelvin Capital and Scottish Enterprise to scale up its offering at pace.

“The investment has allowed us to introduce a national sales, support and back-office team, helping deliver our vision of providing high-quality modern technology with a traditional approach to customer service,” he says.

“We’re now the only company of our kind to offer a comprehensive hardware and software package on a unique subscription basis, backed with full on-farm set-up, ongoing customer support and no-quibble guarantees.”

Mr Wardman emphasises the company’s commitment to making a real difference to farmers by supporting a precision, data-driven approach to recording and analysis of farm operations.

“Our offering, which includes a new industry partnership with Rappa, integrates software, a weigh crate, tag reader and load bars, to deliver a fully integrated solution for farmers in the UK and across the globe.”

He adds: “We sought independent investors who share our vision to help secure

a sustainable future for the agricultural sector.”

Susie Fisher, investment director at Kelvin Capital says: “Our investment in iLivestock aligns perfectly with Kelvin Capital’s strategy of backing globally ambitious companies, that are driving innovation and creating transformative solutions within their sectors.

“We like that their affordable and integrated livestock management platform is accessible for farms of all sizes and is already supporting farmers globally to improve efficiencies and meet their objectives.”

Kerry Sharp, Scottish Enterprise director of entrepreneurship and investment says: “Duradiamond Software is a great example of the kind of dynamic innovator we are so excited to invest in.

“The company’s iLivestock platform is really helping the farming industry adopt new

innovations, and showing how two sectors can work together for wider benefit – not only for company and economic growth, but also for improved food security,” she adds.

“We’re proud to be investing in the iLivestock technology solution and look forward to seeing what the future holds for the company.”

For further information about iLivestock’s latest solutions and collaboration, please visit: www.ilivestock.co.uk.

TARGAN announces European launch of automated feather sex identification system at EuroTier 2024

The US-based manufacturer’s automated chick feather sex identification system leverages artificial intelligence (AI)powered advanced imaging technology to identify and sort male and female day-old chicks based on their feathers.

Ramin Karimpour, Founder and CEO at TARGAN, said: “With global meat consumption expected to double by 2050, the industry needs to rapidly evolve to feed our growing population.

In Europe, poultry is one of the most widely produced and consumed animal-based protein sources, but the sector faces an array of challenges to meet demand, including workforce complexities, tightening welfare standards and higher consumer expectations — all areas that can be addressed with our systems.”

The WingScan™ system offers a throughput of up to 100,000 chicks per hour, depending on the configuration,

with up to 98% accuracy. Automated chick sexing improves efficiency and performance, leading to downstream benefits at the farm and plant. By implementing gender-specific rearing strategies, producers can improve flock uniformity, which enhances plant operations.

By overcoming the need for large teams of skilled manual chick sexers, WingScan™ allows hatcheries to address labour challenges. Hatcheries that are able to boost productivity, have a greater potential to achieve consistent, high-precision results and improved ROI across the entire value chain.

Farmer ‘pathfinders’ wanted for precision breeding project

The British On-Farm Innovation Network (BOFIN) is looking for farmers to become ‘PROBITY Pathfinders’, taking a vital role in the Platform to Rate Organisms Bred for Improved Traits and Yield (PROBITY) project.

The main responsibility of the PROBITY Pathfinders will be to drive discussion on precision breeding and share insights with the wider agricultural community.

Tom Allen-Stevens, founder of BOFIN said:

“The SequenceCircle is our community to lead discussion on precision-bred crops and help steer the PROBITY project. It launches next month and we need farmers who are motivated to generate open discussion and help us push forward with the project.

“As with all BOFIN projects the Pathfinders will receive a payment for their involvement.”

The Sequence Circle includes a moderated discussion forum and resource hub which will be launched as part of a special event at this year’s CropTec.

The PROBITY project launched in August this year. It is a three-year,£2.2m farmerled project, funded by Defra’s Farming Innovation Programme. Defra is working in partnership with Innovate UK, the UK’s Innovation agency, who are delivering the programme.

For more information on the project and the PROBITY Pathfinder role visit probityproject.co.uk

The VET Controlling Footrot in Your Flock

Lameness has a massive impact on the UK sheep sector, resulting in major production losses, animal welfare compromise, and increased antibiotic usage.

Caused by the bacterium Dichelobacter nodosus, footrot is one of the most common causes of lameness in adult sheep. Unlike CODD where the lesions start at the coronary band, in footrot the lesions start between the digits with rawness and a characteristic foul-smelling discharge. Infection may then spread, under-running the horn of the sole and wall, causing severe lameness.

Unfortunately there is no one quick fix for footrot problems in the flock, and control is best achieved by implementing the Five Point Plan:

(1) Quarantine

To avoid introducing infection to the flock, bought-in stock should be quarantined for 30 days. During this time they should be inspected closely for foot problems. It would be

By Balfour S Hay BVMS MRCVS

advisable to footbath sheep on entry and exit of quarantine.

(2) Avoid Spread

D. nodosus thrives in damp, muddy conditions, so measures should be taken to ensure hightraffic or gathering areas are well-drained and disinfectable.

Footbathing is advised after gatherings. Troughs/feeders should be moved regularly to avoid poaching. Lame sheep should ideally be isolated to avoid spreading infection, especially during housing. Clean, dry bedding during housed periods is essential.

(3) Treat

Prompt appropriate treatment of lame ewes is essential for good cure rates. Footrot should be treated with a longacting oxytetracycline injection (oxytetracycline spray can also be applied to all feet). Lame sheep also benefit from administration of an anti-

inflammatory (e.g. meloxicam). Importantly, foot trimming is no longer recommended. Studies have consistently shown foot trimming to cause a delayed recovery from footrot, and it can promote spread of infection between animals (D. nodosus can survive for 6 weeks in foot trimmings).

(4) Cull

Some animals that have had footrot can go on to become chronic shedders of the infection. There is also likely to be a genetic component to susceptibility to footrot. Therefore, it is essential to have a strict culling policy when it comes to lameness - e.g. culling animals that have had two or more bouts of lameness in the last year.

(5) Vaccinate

Footvax is a vaccine that helps provide immunity against the common strains of D. nodosus which can be used in conjunction with the other measures. Discuss with your vet how Footvax can best be implemented in your flock.

Opportunity knocks for the young and ambitious - and landowners

An inspired initiative to link ambitious young dairy farmers with landowners to run efficient grass based dairy units is becoming an ever-stronger network across the UK

Farming Partners, based near Dumfries in south-west Scotland, has grown from a 300-cow herd to nine dairy farms in Scotland and Ireland, and now one in New Zealand. It also has a youngstock rearing unit serving three of the herds.

The business was set up in 2011 by Brendan and Maureen Muldowney in partnership with Richard Beattie and his family. The Muldowneys had careers in banking and Richard also has a strong business background but they all came from farming, and they have used these assets to drive both the Farming Partners business and the people in it.

“The concept is based on the share milking model in New Zealand, and we saw a real opportunity to do something similar here in the UK,” explains Brendan. “It gives our team the drive to quickly reach management level if they want to and to grow their own business within a business.”

Farming Partners connects farm owners who don’t want to run the farm day to day with driven young people eager to build their careers in farming but lacking the capital or family farm to do so independently.

It provides the people, expertise and the cows; the landowner provides the land and infrastructure, and the profit is shared accordingly. When you reach farm manager level you can buy equity in the herd.

Brendan’s background in banking means that he can support the farm managers with advice and insights on how to get finance and budgeting to build up their

own stake in the herd. The farm manager then receives a profit from the year proportional to

number of cows they own, which is another incentive to make their own business run well.

All the dairy farms, which range in size from 330 to 700 cows, are on a grass-based system with annual spring calving which produces quality milk with high protein and fat solids. The nine units are run by 30 full-time staff and 12-15 temporary staff are employed for calving.

Ted Dempsey has just taken over the latest addition to the Farming Partners portfolio as Farm Manager after five seasons with the business. It started with a 12week placement for calving with Farming Partners while studying at University College Dublin. He was

planning to head to New Zealand after college as he knew there was not room for him on his own family farm in County Wexford, but an opportunity came up at the time on Farming Partners young stock unit.

“I thought I’d make some money and then go abroad, but one opportunity led to another and I never got any further!” he explains. “After two years I wanted to go back to dairy from the youngstock rearing, so I went to manage the 400-cow herd at Shawsholm Farm. I used savings from his salary and borrowed money to buy 40 cows in the herd, and a year later another 40 cows. I’d like to continue to grow my equity within the business

Farming Partners parlour

John Mackie

and achieve a level of financial freedom through dairy farming, doing what I love.”

As he moves to manage the newest addition to Farming Partners, a 600-cow herd on what was a beef unit and has been converted to dairy, he looks forward to investing further.

“The support network of Farming Partners has been amazing, and they have such a focus on people. Both the skills I’ve gained and the opportunities are so different, and it’s exciting to be part of an ambitious and growing business. Farming Partners removes the glass ceiling: I can see where the opportunity is to grow and develop, and to have skin in the game.”

The arrangement suits many landowners who are working elsewhere or semi retiring and need a good skilled team and expertise to have a profitable farming business running, but without having to be involved in the daily running.

Dumfriesshire farmer John Mackie joined Farming Partners in January 2022 as a landowner partner: “I was looking at retirement and succession planning, and this offered an ideal solution to continue farming, and profitably, by bringing in a professional team of farmers to run the daily management of a dairy unit. I had stopped dairying in 2007, contract rearing heifers for 15 years, and was keen to return to producing milk but didn’t have the resource to do it on my own. The partnership has been ideal for keeping the farm functioning and profitable and the young team has brought great energy to the farm business.”

With Farming Partners, the farm is now a 500-cow unit over 160ha, a grass-based system, with four members of staff - a manager, 2iC (second-incommand) and two further staff. John has a monthly meeting with Farming Partners to update on the business and the financials.

Farming Partners wont take on just any farm. It needs to suit the spring block-calving system for profitable milk production and simplicity though it doesn’t need to be an existing dairy farm.

For Ted, the training and development culture of Farming Partners makes it more than ‘just a job’. “Unless you develop and grow, it comes like any other labour. Farming Partners is constantly growing and is a hungry beast so you’re not going to stand still.”

Being part of a collective is also great, Ted says, for sharing experiences and “housekeeping”, allowing each farm to work independently, but not alone.

Maureen, who is the ‘people’ part of the business, has seen the benefits of ongoing training as well as encouraging on farm mentoring to strengthen the business and retain people. The scale of the business allows them to have a structured bank of training to constantly develop hard skills, from quad bike training and foot trimming to developing the softer skillsets for people and people management, communication and HR. Farming Partners has links

with various experienced business consultants, which Farm Managers can also lean on for advice as and when needed.

“Our people are our focus and the main driver to add more farms is to support our current team looking for the next step. But it doesn’t matter what level you want to reach – management is not for everyone – and we’ll support our team to develop so they and the business are both in a strong place and making money.”

Edward Dempsey

Maureen Muldowney

Arla Foods calls for UK government help amid labour shortages

The largest challenges across the wider supply chain are attracting qualified people with the correct skill sets for the modern manufacturing environment and attracting more women and younger people into the sector as a career choice. Dairy farmers in the UK are having to reduce their herd size and cut their output due to labour shortages, prompting the UK’s largest dairy company to call for help from the government. Research from Arla Foods among its farmer members found that more than half (56%) said it was harder than ever to recruit, while 86% with vacancies said they had received very few or no applicants with the necessary skills.

The cooperative has found that, on average, farmers are paying staff 27% more than they were before the Covid-19

pandemic and the end of free movement of people from the European Union.

This has led to the following:

• 1 in 12 (8.5%) have reduced their output – up from 5.5% in 2023.

• More than 1 in 10 (10.6%) have had to cut herd size – up from 9% in 2023.

• Nearly 1 in 6 (16%) say they are considering leaving the industry – up from 12% last year.

Bas Padberg, managing director of Arla Foods, said the survey of 472 dairy producers was borne out their concerns and the potential impact on food prices and food security.“If we want our farmers to continue to put food on the table in millions of homes around the country,

they need help. We’re calling on the government and the industry to work together to bring people into our exciting sector, and then to give them the skills and equipment they need to be fully productive,” he said, adding, “What ministers have said already about driving growth and supporting training is positive; we now need to go further and faster.”

Attracting qualified people to dairy

The largest challenges across the wider supply chain are attracting qualified people with the correct skill sets for the modern manufacturing environment and attracting more women and younger people into the sector as a career choice. Arla is asking the government to:

• Reduce the administration on farmers by simplifying paperwork;

• Promote the food and farming sector;

• Support skills development and up to date portable qualifications, and;

• Accelerate investment of technology to find workers with expertise and experience of automation.

Fran Ball, vice president of production at Arla, added: “The challenges in recruiting suitably-skilled people into the food supply chain is becoming increasingly harder. With advancements in technology and automation, we should be getting more efficient, but we need the right people with the right skills if we want to have a workforce that is fit for the future.”

Give careful consideration to copper supplements

Weather extremes this season have not only affected overall forage and grazing quality but also mineral and trace element levels available for plant uptake. The use of supplements is an obvious solution, but one that should be carefully considered rather than relied on as a catch all, suggests Nettex’s Emily Hall.

“Mineral deficiencies are a potential problem this year because of soil leaching caused by flooding and poor weather earlier in the year. Copper deficiency, in particular, can lead to swayback and therefore poor performance in lambs and ewes” she says.

To help fill the void, a mineral drench or bolus is recommended. However, Mrs Hall recommends that farmers discuss with their vet the best way to determine the copper status of their flock before supplementing with copper.

Why not put some money into the Lamb Bank, the interest rate is great!

By Peter Myles, NSA Scotland Chairman

They say that the Scots don’t traditionally eat lamb; but traditions, they can change. Look at the new tradition we have of celebrating lamb for St Andrews day and annually we hold a St Andrews night dinner where we have a great night of camaraderie and fun (tickets available from grace@nationalsheep.org.uk or 07787 142858).

Now, NSA Scotland wants Lamb for St Andrews day to foster and grow. So, what better way to get the Scots to eat lamb is to enable a new generation to enjoy the tradition and savour the delights and the best of delicious Scotch Lamb. Lamb for St Andrews day does exactly that. Since its inception, the campaign has generated so much interest, it has put lamb into schools allowing over 100,000 school children through HE departments to learn how to cook and eat with abundance of QMS recipes featuring the very best of Scottish produce. With 34,000 pupils

so far signed up for this year’s initiative, the project continues to grow and grow. Funded predominantly by the Institute of Auctioneers, the Lamb Bank and a little help from NSA Scotland. We all know our sheep trade has seen a fair boost recently, and the Lamb Bank is there for farmers to donate some of their increased proceeds that would help with the increase in costs, which if you think about it, are considerable. Why not, the next time you have sheep at the mart, give a wee bit back and help to future proof our industry. You can donate to the Lamb Bank at any auction mart or directly to IAAS by email neil@iaas.co.uk for info on how to do it.

To hear a youngster enthuse “guess what we ate at school today mum? It was lamb and it tasted great!” surely the Lamb Bank must be worth it.

So why not put some money into the Lamb Bank, the interest rate is great!

For further information, please visit https://www.nationalsheep.org.uk/webinars/

“This could involve blood testing, forage analysis and/ or liver tissue copper analysis, to establish whether a coppercontaining supplement is required,” she says.

The spectrum of soil and forage samples taken throughout the UK suggests that some areas are at higher risk of copper deficiencies than others. Eurofins’ Shane Brewer has received thousands of soil and forage samples and says there is no obvious trend.

“We have seen huge fluctuations in soil mineral levels which have directly impacted forage quality. Some areas may have suffered significant leaching, and livestock in these areas will be at risk of deficiency this season,” he says.

Accurate soil and forage analysis is recommended to help establish if, and which, supplements could be beneficial to flock health. A mineral bolus offers a daily trace element release over a long-

lasting period, whilst ideal for extensive grazing animals it may be a concern for livestock that have access to other copper supplements such as concentrate, blocks or a lick buckets.

Alternatively, a drench will work over a much shorter period of time and may therefore be beneficial for short at-risk periods. Therefore, Mrs Hall recommends considering both a drench and a bolus.

High levels of heavy metals such as molybdenum and sulphur in forage can reduce the availability of dietary copper. Mrs Hall says clinical signs of an imbalance may include poor growth, infertility and lameness.

“Inaccurate supplementation is wasteful and potentially harmful, with minerals such as copper being toxic when over supplied. We recommend farmers work closely with nutritionists and vets to ascertain what deficiencies need to be rectified and then choose a bolus or drench to reduce the threat to lamb and ewe health,” she says.

“We suggest a mineral audit in a flock prior to introducing tups so that the use of a coppercontaining drench or bolus can be administered at the correct time to benefit both ewe and lamb health,” she concludes.

Mart dipping service fights back on sheep scab

With sheep scab reaching worrying levels in Scotland, Caledonian Marts at Stirling is trialling a sheep dipping service at its store and breeding sheep sales. Buyers can opt in to have the sheep dipped before leaving the mart, and they are separated out as they leave the ring.

Oliver Shearman, Managing Director of Caledonian Marts and council member of Institute of Auctioneers and Appraisers in Scotland (IAAS), which offered the service at its last seven sales, said:

“Since we started offering the dipping in July, it has gained popularity at each sale, and last week we dipped 1100 sheep. Sheep scab is becoming a real issue across the country, and this is such a simple solution to help minimise it in the national flock. Buyers have the confidence that they are taking home clean stock and it’s one less worry, but it’s also efficient.

“It saves the work when you get home of unloading into the field, then taking them out again to be dipped and the time

crofting

Land reform and crofting legislation

By Donna Smith

September saw the release of a report by the Crofting Commission entitled the Value of Crofting which has confirmed what SCF and crofters have known for a long time which is that crofting brings valuable contributions not only to rural crofting communities, but to Scotland as a whole in many ways.

Crofting is sometimes viewed as a ‘hobby’ by some, but this report helps demonstrate that it is very much more than that and, as such, should be given the recognition and support it deserves. The financial evidence in the report demonstrated that every £1 of public investment in crofting generates £13 Gross Value Added (GVA) for the Scottish economy.

Being able to now evidence this is going to provide the SCF with a strong tool as we continue to ensure that crofters get a good deal as we start to get into more of the details of what future support will look like.

The report clearly shows that crofting not only delivers economically, but also for the environment, land management, community, health and for culture. That said however, for crofting to reach its full potential, there needs to be better access to croft land for young folk, potentially through creation of new crofts, a subject we have long highlighted and will continue to do.

Coincidentally, we have been taking part in some land justice events in partnership with the Land Workers Alliance which are generating some interesting discussion, the latest event taking place in Skye. With Land Reform and Crofting Legislation changes going through parliament, it is an important time to build a strong people’s movement to highlight the challenges of the modern era such as rural housing, land prices, the impacts of carbon speculation and then pressure the government to address them.

and effort that involves. It’s also good for smaller enterprises that don’t have enough sheep to employ a dipper for a day on the farm.”

Sheep scab, caused by the parasitic mite Psoroptes ovis, is an acute form of allergic dermatitis and one of the most persistent and damaging health issues in the UK sheep industry. It spreads rapidly and causes intense irritation, weight loss, reduced fertility and, in extreme cases, death if left untreated, all of which impacts both animal welfare and farm profitability. Dipping is a one-off procedure that provides instant results by immediately eliminating mites and minimising transmission back into existing flocks.

Caledonian Marts subcontracts the dipping on sale dates and the

charge is £1.20 per sheep, added to the purchase price.

Executive Director of IAAS, Neil Wilson said:

“As auction markets, we have to do everything we can to support the industry to control sheep scab. Dipping is one of the most effective measures to control its spread, and it’s been great to see the growing uptake at Caledonian Marts. If marts and farmers work together on this, it will be a huge benefit to the industry. It also only strengthens the reputation of our marts as safe, responsible places for trade.”

The dipper will be available at Store Sheep Sales and Breeding Sheep Sales at Caledonian Marts. For upcoming sales see www. caledonian-marts.com.

FARMING SCOTLAND

New course promotes safe wildlife management at night

Public safety and animal welfare a priority

A new course in the use of night vision equipment for controlling wildlife populations in darkness will help to ensure safety for the Scottish public and promote animal welfare standards.

The competency course, developed by the Scottish Gamekeepers Association (SGA) and approved by LANTRA, has been launched in Perthshire.

It comes after the Scottish Government changed the 1996 Deer Act to permit the use of thermal imaging and night vision scopes to cull deer at night; a historic change which came into being for the first time in November 2023.

The new course, however, will focus on the use of such equipment for all legal wildlife management in darkness in

Scotland, which includes foxes and feral pigs as well as deer.

‘Use of Thermal and Night Vision for Wildlife Management (Scotland)’ has been developed by the SGA’s dedicated Training Centre, which has delivered over 1000 recognised Deer Management qualifications in recent years, at levels 1 and 2.

It is expected the practical and class-based course, which will carry a challenging pass mark of 80% in assessment, will attract gamekeepers, deer managers, forestry contractors and professionals involved in pest control during night hours.

Topics covered will include legal tests, best practice and safety, with participants handling a range of approved equipment provided by imaging partners,

Report demonstrates that crofting is a truly valuable asset to Scotland

The Value of Crofting report released by the Crofting Commission today has confirmed what SCF has long known and campaigned on and that is that crofting brings valuable contributions not only to rural crofting communities, but to Scotland as a whole

by delivering across all of the outcomes in the Scottish Government’s national performance framework.

The report produced by BiGGAR Economics concludes that “The full value of crofting cannot be estimated in pounds and pence. This report shows

HIK MICRO - a leading worldwide optics supplier.

Reward for a successful candidate will be a nationally recognised certification of competence in the use of specialised equipment, encompassing species identification, animal behaviour

observation at night and risk assessment.

The safety of the public is paramount, as is welfare of the quarry, and understanding the variables in the equipment such as heat readings, silhouette and pixelation will be a focus of the course.

A bright and profitable future for crofting

By Alasdair Macnab, Vice President, NFU Scotland

With more than 850 crofting members, NFU Scotland has welcomed the publication of a report which has exposed the massive economic and social benefits generated by Scotland’s often overlooked crofters.

The recent Crofting Commission report on the value of crofting to Scotland’s economy is eye-opening and highlights the vast benefits crofting brings to local communities, as well as the wider Scottish economy.

The report is available to read at: https:// www.crofting.scotland. gov.uk/userfiles/file/ research_publications/ The-Value-of-Croftinga-report-by-BiGGAREconomics-for-theCrofting-Commission-2.pdf

In its financial contribution to the wider economy, crofting adds £588 million GVA (gross value added) per year to the Scottish economy and supports 30,385 jobs. This is a huge and previously underrated contribution from such a small part of Scotland’s population.

For most crofters, crofting is not the only

job. Many crofters also work in their community, in schools, as health workers, tradesmen and women, without whom the local community could not survive. These jobs, supported by crofting, are concentrated in and around the crofting counties. These areas are sparsely populated, often very remote rural areas where crofting provides a focus and a meaning to their communities.

The value of this is further highlighted within the report stating that for every £1 of economic impact directly added by crofting generates £19 in indirect benefits.

It is not just a monetary value that crofting brings to the economy. The social and environmental benefits are just as great. There is a unique identity within the crofting communities which brings people together and they are often the first to take steps towards embracing renewable energy, environmental enhancement and improving biodiversity and developing tourism

If anything, this report highlights the need to develop and protect crofting,

www.nfus.org.uk

encouraging new entrants and future proofing the legislation so it can continue to thrive, supporting Scotland’s economy.

NFU Scotland is playing a strong role in advocating for the future of crofting through its Crofting Highlands and Islands Committee, lobbying and engagement with Scottish Government and its agencies such as NatureScot on a wide range of issues.

We have welcomed commitment in the Scottish Government’s recent Programme for Government, announced in September, that it is to proceed with plans to bring forward legislation for a Crofting Bill and we have already been working closely with the Crofting Bill group to develop proposals.

We broadly support reform of crofting law but in our submission, we call for the legislation to go further to assist entry to crofting for new entrants.

This report shows that there is a bright and profitable future for crofting, and we need the planned Bill to deliver on that ambition.

that crofting also delivers a whole host of wider social and environmental benefits many of which cannot be fully quantified. It shows how crofting practices are the epitome of regenerative agriculture. It demonstrates how crofting addresses the challenges of retaining people in Scotland’s most geographically peripheral communities, and it shows how crofting enhances our cultural and environmental landscapes.”

It shows that crofting adds £588M to the Scottish economy each year and creates 16,000 direct jobs plus another 16,000 jobs ‘downstream’. That is a significant contribution to the Scottish economy from Scotland’s 20,000 crofts.

Crofts cover 25% of the Highlands and Islands land area and 15% of Scotland’s land, mostly on poorer quality land and in remote areas. Crofts currently lie solely within the Highlands and Islands, where their impact is even more significant, contributing 5% of the total Gross Value Added (GVA) of the Highlands and Islands each year, and 6% of all jobs.

SCF Chair, Jonathan Hedges said “This report evidences and underlines the importance of crofting to Scotland and strengthens the case for ensuring that crofters are supported appropriately for the wealth of public benefit that crofting delivers. Every £1 of public investment in crofting generates £13 GVA for the Scottish economy.”

“The report clearly shows that crofting not only delivers economically, but also for the environment, land management, community, health and for culture. That said however, for crofting to reach its full potential, there needs to be better access to croft land for young folk, potentially through creation of new crofts, a subject we have long highlighted. Crofting is sometimes viewed as a ‘hobby’, but this report helps demonstrate that it is very much more than that and, as such, should be given the recognition and support it deserves.”

Saving the Capercaillie

Responding to the launch of the Cairngorms Capercaillie Emergency Plan, BASC Scotland director, Peter Clark said:

“The Cairngorms stands as the final bastion for capercaillie in the UK and efforts must be made to protect this iconic species.

“BASC has played its part in supporting this important conservation effort, including making a financial contribution of £52,000 to the initiatives to mark or remove 10 kilometres of unmarked fences in the Badenoch and Strathspey area.

“These fences, if left unattended, are known to be a hinderance during capercaillie leks and breeding.

“While good progress has been made via this initiative and predator control, success

will depend on high levels of collaboration from all stakeholders.

“BASC and its members are ready to support the efforts to restore capercaillie numbers.”

Productive mixed farming in same hands for over 100 years for sale in rural south Lanarkshire

Productive mixed farming unit, situated between the village of Stonehouse and the town of Larkhall within rural South Lanarkshire, offers a wealth of opportunities as it goes on sale through Galbraith.

Canderside Farm extends to approximately 123.89 Ha (306.13 Acres) and is centred on a traditional farmhouse which forms part of the courtyard steading, centrally located within the holding.

The farm benefits from a private and attractive outlook across the surrounding countryside to the east and west. The surrounding area is home to an array of wildlife and provides plenty opportunities for the outdoor enthusiast.

There’s an excellent range of modern and traditional farm

buildings and a pair of semidetached cottages, largely in a dilapidated state but remain relatively intact to wall and roof head level, presenting further development opportunities, subject to appropriate consent.

The farmland is divided into four separate blocks by the adjacent public roads and are generously sized, easily accommodating modern machinery, and are readily accessible.

Agriculturally, the surrounding area of South Lanarkshire provides an attractive location with a combination of productive pasture and arable ground, and is located close to agricultural amenities, including agricultural machinery sales and service in Strathaven and Lanark. Feed

merchants are available in Stonehouse and Strathaven.

The farm is also within easy reach of a number of livestock markets, including Lanark Mart (12 miles), Ayr (35 miles) and the two livestock marts in Stirling (about 40 miles).

Duncan Barrie and Alistair Torrance who are handling the sale for Galbraith in Stirling, said: “The sellers have owned Canderside Farm since 1921, having been tenants for many years prior to its purchase, and so this sale presents a rare opportunity for a single party or a number of interested parties to purchase various lots which comprise the farming unit, either to expand their current offering or as a new venture.

Alistair has advised that: “Historically, the farming

system at Canderside focused on a mixed dairy, beef and arable system, with cereals and grass grown as part of the rotation. All of the grain, straw and silage was used for home consumption. Most of the land has now been let out on seasonal grazing and cropping agreements. The ploughable arable and pasture land has been worked to a good depth thanks to the rotation and healthy application of farmyard manure from both the dairy and beef enterprises over the years.”

Furthermore, Duncan explained: “The farm is extremely well placed in terms of the wider settlement boundaries of Stonehouse and Larkhall, and benefits from excellent road links via the A71 which passes at the end of the farm drive and

provides swift access to Junction 8 of the M74 motorway which lies just to the east of the farm boundary, offering access to the whole of Central Scotland. The location and layout of the holding and range of buildings on offer, it is likely to appeal to both existing farmers but also individuals and investors looking to make a return on the property in the longer term.”

Canderside Farm, Stonehouse, South Lanarkshire is for sale through Galbraith at offers over £1,690,000 as a whole, or in 5 lots. Please note lots 2-5 will not be sold prior to the sale of lot 1.

• Lot 1: farmhouse, farm buildings and land extending to approximately 48.08 ha (118.81 acres) - offers over £975,000

• Lot 2: farmland extending to about 56.85 ha (140.48 acres) - offers over £425,000

• Lot 3: farmland extending to about 14.08 ha (34.79 acres)offers over £165,000

• Lot 4: farmland extending to about 3.97 ha (9.81 acres)offers over £65,000

• Lot 5: semi-detached ruin cottages and land extending to about 0.91 ha (2.25 acres)offers over £60,000

Dumfries and Galloway anglers say salmon farming plans could ‘devastate’ wild fish

Dumfries and Galloway anglers are concerned about diseases ‘devastating wild salmon’ in a river where plans are being proposed to create a fish farm.

The Scottish government has approved plans for Selcoth fishery, near Moffat, to change its stock from rainbow trout to Atlantic salmon in the river Annan.

Local anglers believe the ‘intense’ farming of salmon fish could negatively affect the wild fish already in the water.

The River Annan Salmon Fishery Board chose to support the farming scheme, leading to disagreements, with one member resigning from the board.

Anthony Steel, from a nearby salmon school, thinks there is evidence of disease and pollution across the northwest coast of Scotland which stemmed from adult fish farming.

He said: “There has been so much evidence of diseases, so much evidence of escapes and so much evidence of pollution there.

“If a disease comes from the farmed community into the wild salmon, it’s going to devastate the wild salmon in this river and it’ll stretch beyond this river because these are migratory fish.

“It’ll go out down the Solway in effect, all the rivers along the Solway, the Eden and the Nith and the border.”

Scottish salmon is the UK’s largest food export bringing in more than half a billion to the economy, according to HMRC figures. Mark Bowler, the editor of a fly fishing magazine, says it is a “real privilege” to be out on the river.

He says the diminishing numbers of salmon fish have become upsetting.

“It actually gets me, it gets to me quite a lot because obviously my business is related to that,” he said.

“But I actually feel it personally because a lot of people are very devoted to their fly fishing.”

Selcoth Fisheries, the company moving the fish farming plans forward, declined to comment due to the proposal ‘being at such an early stage’.

www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

New rules on predator control effective in November

In September Minister for Agriculture Jim Fairlie MSP advised that the ban on snares, introduced as part of the Wildlife Management and Muirburn (Scotland) Act 2024, will commence on 25 November 2024. After that date it becomes an offence to set a snare in Scotland for the purpose of killing or restraining a wild animal.

The Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT) has been seeking clarity on the ban but we are advising that all snares currently set or deactivated should be removed before 25 November. It isn’t necessary to destroy or hand in any snares as the ban is for use and not for possession. We are also urging that practitioners should retain all records of past snaring activities until further notice. The ban on snaring is a significant loss in terms of the removal of a vital tool for conservation and wildlife management and GWCT research has repeatedly demonstrated the

benefits of legal humane predator control. It is also now really important that all other methods of legal predator control are carried out to the highest professional and animal welfare standards. Training in spring trapping and corvid trapping is now mandatory and the current NatureScot syllabus has been developed with GWCT using our material. Approved training courses started this Autumn and run through to next February.

Also, when carrying out legal predator control, it is becoming increasingly important to be able to demonstrate adherence to best practice. GWCT has developed the Best Practice with Proof initiative, allowing land managers to collect, record and compile data from activities such as predator control to allow detailed reporting. GWCT Advisory Services also offers Predator Control Assessments as a bespoke service.

For more details of GWCT Advisory courses and services see www.gwctadvisoryscotland.co.uk

www.gwct.org.uk/auchnerran/

Inspecting traps

land & property

Getting a return from rural property

By Jennifer Campbell

Introduction:

Increasing legislation affecting long and short term lets combined with a new planning framework, should be seen as an opportunity to diversify and look at all options to enhance revenue income. If you are considering maximising return from your rural property in Scotland, here are a few tips to consider.

Summary:

It is rare nowadays to see an estate rely exclusively on residential tenancies and agricultural grazing licenses. Savvy operators embrace modern farming methods, carbon capture, renewable energy, glamping and camping sites, motorhome storage, sporting, fishing and support for afforestation and/or rewilding. If your property is reliant on oil or gas it’s always beneficial to explore the costs of renewable energy.

As to repurposing, the relevant NPF4 policy includes ‘brownfield, vacant and derelict land and empty buildings’ and permitted development rights. The policy ensures development is directed to the right locations, maximising the use of existing assets and minimising additional land take. And while the repurposing of agricultural buildings requires investment, the rewards are there for the taking.

We work closely with planners and architects across Scotland to maximise opportunities on relevant land parcels with development opportunity. It is also worth noting the recent change in Local Development Plans (LDP). As a

result of NPF4, the development planning system changed from a 5 year to 10-year review cycle. Very recent changes in business rates, with many exemptions now lost, may also encourage landowners to look at market value or to repurpose the lands or empty buildings.

How to identify areas you could expand:

Vacant land : Is there the potential for income for camping, motorhome/ caravan storage or campervan provision, dog park, grazing, livery, woodland schemes, or renewable energy?

Vacant buildings: Is there the potential for further residential lets (short term, long term including staff accommodation), commercial lets (complimentary services such as a beauty room, coffee shop, bike hire, food and drink production or craft shop. Do you have any empty sheds that could be repurposed into a storage facility or separated into individual workshops for hire?

Reference Points:

If you are considering diversification your first port of call should be National Planning Policy (NPF4): https://www. gov.scot/publications/nationalplanning-framework-4/pages/3/ and Non-domestic Permitted Development Rights: https:// www.gov.scot/publications/ circular-2-2024-non-domesticpermitted-development-rights/ pages/10/

In addition you may want to reference your Local Development Plan (LDP) through your local authority

planning portal. If you are having difficulty sourcing this and navigating planning policy you can contact your local planning office or you may want to consider a professional planning consultation. We work with Paul Hughes of Glen Etive Projects who has had a number of successful applications for rural projects in recent years.

The Planning Process:

Once you have identified what you’d like to do, your next step is a planning application. There are two approaches for this, outline or detailed. The latter is more onerous in terms of cost but often proves to be the more successful route.

Altering agricultural land to car parking, dog park or motorhome park does require ‘Change of Use’ and if you are not confident with the planning process it is always best to seek professional advice.

Where planning is required or a building warrant, this must be sought in advance of works being carried out. Retrospective planning is very costly and you may be fined for carrying out works without obtaining the necessary consents.

Referring back to NPF4 is always a good approach to starting a planning process. Is the development sustainable, will it have an adverse affect on the community, landscape or environment?

The process of applying is clearly set out by your local authority on their website, including the cost for submission and what information is required. If you suspect that your application is to be rejected,

usually because information is missing, you are best to withdraw temporarily while you seek the required information then resubmit. This is because a rejected site is less likely to be re-considered.

Permitted Development Rights:

Permitted Development rights on agricultural buildings have been in place for some years now with some more recent updates relating to;

• the maximum floorspace surrounding development of buildings

• converting what was previously an agricultural building for use as a dwelling

• changes to the rules relating to “flexible commercial use” of an agricultural building

• changes to the requirements for conducting peatland restoration

We assisted a farm in Fife recently in obtaining rural tenants for agricultural sheds. Permitted Development Rights would allow the change of use of an agricultural building (and any land within its curtilage) to a ‘flexible’ use falling within class 1a (shops, financial, professional and other services), class 3 (food and drink), class 4 (business), class 6 (storage or distribution or class 10 (nonresidential institutions) of the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) (Scotland) Order 1997. Proximity to residential or listed buildings would prevent this and in some circumstances change of use will be required.

Planning law already allows for the temporary use of land or

buildings for up to 28 days in a calendar year without the need to make an application for planning permission – the ’28 day rule’. This is set out in Class 15 of the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (Scotland) Order 1992; specifically allowing the “use of land (other than a building or land within the curtilage of a building) for any purpose, except as a caravan

site or an open air market, on not more than 28 days in total in any calendar year, and the erection or placing of moveable structures on the land for the purposes of that use”. This is often exercised for events, festivals and pop up café’s.

Finance:

Seek advice from a qualified accountant with regards to structuring a new project or

Versatile Caithness farm extending to 122 acres

An attractive and versatile farm, in the county of Caithness, has been launched on the open market through leading property consultants, Galbraith.

Glenburnie Farm is located a short distance to the south-west of Thurso and around 23.5 miles to the north-west of Wick.

The farm comprises Glenburnie House, a renovated farmhouse, Murrayfield which is a separate farm cottage plus various agricultural buildings. There are also two useful grazing paddocks, ideal for a variety of equestrian, smallholding and agricultural uses, as well

as good quality ploughable and permanent pasture land extending to around 122.00 acres (49.37 ha) in total.

Glenburnie Farm, Janetstown, Thurso, is for sale through Galbraith as a whole at offers over £680,000, or in the following lots:

Glenburnie Farm Lot 1 -

Glenburnie Farm, Agricultural Buildings and Murray Cottage (about 112.51 acres / 45.53 ha) –offers over £450,000

Glenburnie Farm Lot 2 -

Glenburnie House and Paddocks (9.49 acres / 3.84 ha) – offers over £230,000

land & property

further diversification on your rural property. There is assistance available for agritourism and there may be local authority assistance where a rural project will deliver local employment. Significant land parcels will be considered for renewable projects, where appropriate and long leases can offer lucrative financial return, which may be offset against further diversification on your property. Significant land parcels may also be considered for biodiversity net gain ‘habitat banks’ and where peatland is present you may also be eligible for restoration grant schemes.

Conclusion:

If you need advice or want to look at increasing revenue on your land, then please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We have extensive commercial reach across Scotland and Cumbria with a streamlined approach to business and property diversification. We are happy to advise on all property matters and can be reached at rural@ dmhall.co.uk

Call-to-Action (CTA): Jennifer Campbell is Head of Rural Agency at DM Hall, based in Bridge of Allan.

Nuffield Farming report examines how to build resilience in UK forests

Scottish forestry manager Byron Braithwaite NSch 2023 has published his Nuffield Farming report ‘Creating

Forests That Thrive in a Changing Climate: Drought and Fire Resilience’,

sponsored by the John Oldacre Foundation.

The full report is now available on the Nuffield Farming report library and his report video is available on the Nuffield Farming YouTube channel. Byron will present the findings of his research at the 2024 Nuffield Farming Conference in Belfast.

During his Scholarship, Byron travelled to Canada, France, Spain and New Zealand. He aimed to observe forests in drier climates to identify techniques which increase the resilience of young trees to drought and determine the best practices for fire management.

He says, “This report examines key areas for building resilience in UK forestry practices in the face of climate change. It focuses on drought tolerance and fire management strategies, on which there is currently only limited work underway to address these issues.”

On drought tolerance and resilience, he says: “A critical factor for long-term resilience is tree breeding for drought tolerance and diversification of species. However, current funding for public and private breeding programmes, particularly for native broadleaf trees, is insufficient. Implementing a government levy on timber sales, similar to the French model, could provide a sustainable funding mechanism.”

Byron also explores the importance of optimising planting and cultivation, large-scale data collection for genotype, sitespecific planting assessment, and the potential of mycorrhizal fungi to enhance nutrient and moisture uptake.

On fire management and resilience, he says: “Given the fragmented mixed land use environment in the UK, the risk

of large-scale wildfires is lower compared to other regions of the world. However, targeted vegetation control in highpublic use areas, around critical infrastructure, and near sensitive ecological areas remains critical.

Controlled grazing, low-intensity fires, and mechanical methods can be effective tools for managing fuel loads without compromising biodiversity.

“Public awareness and responsible behaviour are crucial for mitigating fire risk. Educational initiatives targeting children and outreach programmes for outdoor enthusiasts are recommended. Utilising social media and digital channels can broaden the reach of fire safety messaging.”

Byron concludes: “Continuous improvement in traditional forestry practices, increased investment in tree breeding for drought tolerance, and proactive fire management strategies are important in ensuring

Byron Braithwaite the long-term health and resilience of UK forests and our society as a whole.”

Study objectives

• Investigate the likely effects of drought and fire on the UK forest industry by observing forests in drier climates across the world.

• Identify techniques and practical measures to increase the resilience of young trees at the establishment phase.

• Determine best practice for fire management and community and landowner resilience and preparedness.

Messages

1. Action to create drought and fire resilient forests must start immediately.

2. Tree breeding, particularly for diverse conifer and productive broadleaf species, must be adequately funded through public and private sector investment to enable diversification.

3. Wildfire is almost always started by humans. Cultural change must commence immediately to ensure that we are a fire aware nation in the future.

4. Vegetation control to reduce fuel loads should be focused on high use public areas and important infrastructure or habitats.

Community groups, local authorities, charities and schools urged to apply for funding to add trees in urban areas from a pot of up to £10m

Fruit and nut trees in Raploch gardens and tree wardens on the Clyde show that “from small acorns, mighty oaks grow”

Future Woodlands Scotland and bp are on a mission to add more trees and green spaces to Scotland’s cities and towns.

The charity, which is dedicated to creating and

conserving woodlands across Scotland, has secured up to £10m from the integrated energy company to deliver the Urban Forestry Programme, which opens for applications today.

Community groups, local authorities, NGOs, charities and schools are being encouraged to apply for funding of up to

£100,000 for projects, which aim to deliver more trees and green spaces in urban neighbourhoods and, in turn, are expected to support biodiversity, education, community involvement and job creation.

With Scotland’s urban tree cover (under 16%) much lower than the EU average of 30.2%,

increasing the number of trees in its cities and towns helps support the journey to net zero and deliver a wide range of socioeconomic benefits.

The programme’s ambition is to support urban projects that contribute to the 3:30:300 rule whereby everyone should see three trees from their home, every neighbourhood has a 30% tree canopy and quality green space within 300 metres.

Applications from areas which have the fewest trees will be prioritised. This will be measured by the Tree Equity tool, which was created to address imbalances in urban tree distribution by American Forests, a US non-profit organisation, and was brought to the UK by the Woodland Trust and Centre for Sustainable Healthcare.

Shireen Chambers, CEO of Future Woodlands Scotland said:

“Trees are vital for boosting nature, combating flooding, providing shelter, reducing pollution and improving mental health. To ensure our towns and cities are healthy environments to live in, we need to plant and nurture more trees. Our goal is for everyone to benefit from trees, whether through learning about them, actively engaging in their care or simply spending time among them.

“We’re grateful to bp for helping us to realise this ambition through the Urban Forestry Programme. They have supported the regeneration of woodlands in Scotland for more than 20 years and are committed to making a positive impact to restore and enhance biodiversity where people live and work.

FWS and bp share a vision for Scotland in which trees and native woodland are thriving for everyone.

FARMING SCOTLAND

Resilient forests for the future

An important new measure which came into force on the 1st October aims to boost the resilience of Scotland’s forests and woodlands.

From here on, the maximum of any one tree species will be limited to 65% in all new forests, with the remainder being a mix of trees.

In addition, existing forests that are being restocked in future years will also need to ensure they comply with the new 65% single species action.

With this new move coming into play, Scotland will see a greater range of tree species being grown. This will make forests and woodlands more resilient to the effects of climate change and the growing number of pests and diseases.

The new measure is part of the revised UK Forestry Standard (UKFS) which provides best practice guidelines for all landowners, foresters and woodland owners to follow.

Scotland’s Chief Forester, Dr Helen McKay OBE said “Although global and regional climate models predictions are improving, there are still big uncertainties about the weather that any given area of woodland will experience.

“The changing climate means that past performance

is no longer a guarantee of future survival, growth or economic return. Therefore, relying so heavily on a limited set of species is not sensible. Broadening the range of species should reduce the risk overall.”

Improving the resilience of Scotland’s forests can take many different forms, including increasing the extent, connectivity and diversity and health of Scotland’s trees.

Increasing the diversity of tree species is very important as it can provide different wildlife habitats and boost biodiversity.

By planting or regenerating a mix of trees we can reduce the chance of a single disease or pest wiping out large areas of woodland.

Scottish Forestry is now encouraging all woodland owners who do not already have a long-term management plan for their forests or woodlands, to create one ensuring they take into account the 65% rule.

Scottish Forestry is currently working with the forest sectors on a new action plan which will improve the resilience of our forests and set out recommendations to boost the range of tree species that we grow in Scotland.

Scotland

Pitlochry Pickings

If you’re interested in Scotland’s forestry and ‘going down to the woods today’ it’s worth heading for Faskally in Perthshire Situated within the Tay Forest Park, Faskally Wood is home to an impressive range of tree species, some more than 200 years old. This manmade wood was created by the owners of Faskally House in the 19th century and went on to become a training ground for young foresters. Each October and November the forest lights up the sky, bringing extensive revenue to the local community and raising large sums for charity, as part of the annual Enchanted Forest illuminations. This year’s event goes back to its roots with the stunning theme ‘Symphony of Nature’ that celebrates natural beauty and Beira the Goddess of Winter through a mesmerising combination of sound, light, lasers and reflections. The event runs

By Janice Hopper

from 3 October to 3 November 2024 and it’s an accessible and inclusive phenomenon that gets all ages into Scotland’s great outdoors.

By day, don’t miss the Pitlochry Dam and Fish Ladder, plus its Visitor Centre (which are all free to visit). After a generous slice of cake in a café that boasts staggering views out over the dam, learn about 70 years of hydro power in the town. The Tummel Valley Hydro Scheme erected nine power stations, created by a team of up to a 12,000 strong workforce. Nicknamed the Tunnel Tigers, many of these men who carved their way through 300 kilometres of Scotland’s landscape, had served in WW2 and were itinerant workers. The centre touches on the benefits of hydro power to farmers and crofters — in 1943 only one in a hundred crofts in the Highlands had electricity. Hydro power changed rural life, making access

to domestic or industrial electricity possible.

The preservation of the salmon population, and the fishes’ ability to migrate up river, was also prioritised. The Pitlochry Fish Ladder was the first of its kind in Scotland, we’re talking 310 metres long, comprising of 34 pools. The centre covers the complex life cycle of salmon, from eggs and alevins to fry, parr, smolts, salmon and grilse. Take a five minute walk across the top of the dam, then peer into the murky salmon ladder pools that allow roughly 5000 salmon to move up or downstream every year.

From this point, it’s easy to simply return to the Visitor Centre, or continue downriver past Pitlochry Festival Theatre, ‘Scotland’s Theatre in the Hills’. Even here, the land is celebrated as banners proclaiming that ‘the hills are alive with the sound of music’

publicise the winter performance of ‘The Sound of Music’, running 15 November to 22 December. Past the theatre, continue over a small suspension bridge over the River Tummel, past Hubertus Game Ltd (that specialises in quality venison products), and head into the town centre and its bustling mix of independent shops. Highlights include an array of pies at Macdonald Brothers Butchers on Bonnethill Road, fresh baked goods at The Bakery Pitlochry on Mill Lane, tweeds at Amor, toiletries at the Highland Soap Company, lunch at Mac and Pinch, cake at Hattie’s Tearoom and rural info and inspiration at the John Muir Visitor Centre.

For those who’d like to get on the water, Pitlochry Boating Station rents out small boats with outboards, kayaks, rowboats, SUPs, and fishing gear. Duck feed is available for little ones. Those

Pitlochry Dam

Travel Scotland

from cafe at Pitlochry boating station who prefer to stay ashore can simply grab a coffee and light bites at the Lochside Café and take in the scenic views over the loch.

To the east of the town the barley and pure water of the region is celebrated at the ridiculously picturesque ivyclad Blair Athol Distillery. It’s said that its water source, the Allt Dour, flows from the slopes of Ben Vrackie. Tours start at £19.00, or simply visit the gift shop, Mash Tun bar and take a few eye-catching snapshots. Just a minute’s drive from the stills and mash tuns is another watery treasure. Tucked away in Black Spout woods is the 190ft Black Spout Waterfall. It’s only a few minutes walk from the official car park, and a timber viewing platform allows visitors to drink in the views.

For those who prefer to plan ahead, there’s always a headline event taking place in Pitlochry,

many of them set in the great outdoors. The next local markets are planned for 16 November 2024 and the Christmas Market of 14 December 2024. On 11 May 2025 Etape Caledonian invites cyclists to embark on ‘one of the most breath-taking rides through the spectacular Scottish Highlands’. The ‘March into Pitlochry’ music festival falls in May, the Ladies Highland

Open golf tees off in July, and the gents’ tournament is club ready in September. Finally, the renowned Pitlochry Highland Games are scheduled to fall on Saturday 13 September 2025.

View

Black Spout Waterfall

Blair Atholl Distillery

Where to Stay

Pitlochry’s five-star Fonab Castle’s forty-two bedrooms combine contemporary furnishings with the original, historic castle features. The views from the stylish Lounge Bar over Loch Faskally are staggering, so make the most of the outdoor seating on bright days. Three AA Rosette dining is served in the award-winning Sandeman’s Restaurant where guests indulge in a seven-course tasting menu.

The more informal ‘1892 on the Loch’ restaurant dishes up delights too. ‘Mains from the Land’ include rump of Borders lamb, Perthshire Red deer or breast of chicken. ‘Mains from the Sea’ promises Loch Etive trout, monkfish fillet or pan seared cod. And the grill tempts meat lovers with Aberdeen Angus ribeye and sirloin.

Even when pampering guests, Perthshire’s renowned forests are never forgotten. Step inside Fonab’s ‘Woodland Spa’, plunge into the fifteen-metre pool or swim in the outdoor resistance pool surrounded by mature

trees. Alternatively, relax in the outdoor hot tub, steam room and sauna, or choose between a selection of indulgent treatments. fonabcastlehotel.com

Need to Know enchantedforest.org.uk / pitlochrydam.com / pitlochryfestivaltheatre.com / fishfaskally.com / malts.com/ en-gb/distilleries/blair-athol / pitlochryhighlandgames.co.uk / etapecaledonia.com

Fonab

Fonab - Sandemans

Hands tied by legislation

By Jake Swindells

The Scottish Government have often claimed to be a “world leader” in several areas of politics, but there is one specific area where Scotland certainly comes top of the league – licensing! We’ve got loads of them! I fear it won’t be long before you will need a licence to apply for a licence. That being said, the possibility of being granted a licence certainly is

preferable to an outright ban, as has happened in other parts of the UK, as well as on our own shores very recently with the ban on snaring.

The practice of snaring animals was employed before records began and has proven over time to be an extremely effective method of catching and controlling animals. Technical developments over

the years means that we have seen devices progress as animal welfare legislation was improved until, in 2012, an operators’ licence was introduced, and a much more humane device was created.

The introduction of a “stop” and swivels turned the wire into a holding device, rather than a killing device. There is no doubt about it, what was once snaring was

Jake Swindells

quite unpalatable for some, and that was understood and acknowledged, which saw the introduction of new methods of working to enhance welfare considerations.

Stringent laws were introduced to ensure that target species were humanely captured and held until the operator returned to dispatch the quarry swiftly.

A training course must have been passed and detailed records still need to be produced to Police upon request. Each snare must have been tagged with an operators’ ID number and have a stop fitted so that the fox, rabbit or hare was not strangled, but held, and each device had to be checked at no more than 24-hour intervals.

These improved devices have been successfully and effectively used for over a decade in protecting our endangered species and livestock. Even though more up-to-date devices (Humane Cable Restraints), with increased welfare advancements were adopted, our government recently ignored evidence from our land management

sector and decided that it would implement a ban on these devices, and it just so happens that this was at a time of the great SNP / Green power share, prior to The Bute House Agreement being dissolved earlier this year.

Two years ago, NatureScot, The Scottish Governments own nature department, published a document stating that Scotland will have lost the iconic Capercaillie 30 years from now. Within days of this, The Scottish Government introduced its intentions to further restrict predator control by introducing the Hunting with Dogs Bill. In a very short space of time, we have lost the ability to effectively protect the species we need to

SCOTTISH COUNTRY

concentrate on conserving, and one can’t help think these were given as a bargaining chip, demanded by Green Ministers, in exchange for an element of Green Party support in other areas that mattered more to our Scottish National Party.

On 25th November 2024, controlling pest and predator species by way of snare or humane cable restraint will be banned. Those who do operate these devices are urged to collect and account for any device they have set, and update records (as is required in law) that you have done so. The snaring debate is now picking up pace south of the border and it is our hope that lessons can be learned from the passing of the destructive legislation here in Scotland so that

wildlife and livestock in England aren’t subjected to the increased predation that we will no doubt see here. Though our leading party continue to tie our hands, we will still try to help them find a way of reaching their biodiversity targets sensibly, because we still want to see an abundance of varied wildlife 30 years from now, contrary to the belief of some less rural-orientated organisations and decision makers. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, if our government don’t want to continue haemorrhaging support from our sector then they had better start taking our evidence seriously prior to implementing new legislation, or it will make for a very interesting 2026 election.

Answered and unanswered Prayers

It becomes increasingly hard to stay positive about the situation in the natural world, and devastating to accept that the British Isles are recognised as one of the most biodiversity depleted countries in Europe.

Yet as I sit and watch the birds here, I marvel that this is one of the finest examples of a great conservation success story.

This once despised raptor has indeed returned from its brush with extinction and the Bowser family should be proud of the part they have played in its safe return to our skies.

Polly

The hawthorn bushes by the hide were positively vibrating. The tree sparrow chicks had left their boxes. Now they sat in lines on the branches, chittering away, begging their parents to feed them every few minutes, as if exhausted from the exertion, their chubby little heads slumped and they fell sound asleep.

High above them a kite glided past, hanging a leg. I thought of the bird Mike had told me about, whose leg injury was always at its most pronounced during nesting season when he constantly had to grab food for his chicks. By the end of the season he was unable to tuck it in when he flew. Was this him?

The kites were behaving strangely. Usually so tolerant of each other, all summer long they’d been fighting like cats.

‘Watch this,’ I told the visitors as the birds gathered, ready to dive.

While all the others bombarded the food, one kite was moving in from the wings at a very different trajectory. Another kite rose, clutching meat. At the last moment it saw the incoming threat and flipped upside down, bearing its talons. The two collided, locked claws, began to grapple. For a split second they made a perfect mirror image of one another. Then they tumbled and the food fell forgotten to the ground.

Over the course of the day the birds kept sparring. Several of them were at it. This unexpected

aggression made for spectacular viewing, although I was at a loss to explain it at the time.

Subsequent confabs with Dave Anderson, Duncan Orr-Ewing and Roy Dennis shed some light on the situation.

‘What you’re seeing is something new,’ Dave said. ‘With the population growing, there must be more competition for food.’

‘With more kites,’ Duncan added, ‘we’re bound to see a range of personalities coming to the fore. If an aggressive bird has

chicks, they’ll probably inherit their parent’s temperament too.’

‘The young sea eagles we’ve reintroduced to the Isle of Wight are getting along really well,’ said Roy. ‘It is so exciting seeing them catching mullet, cuttlefish, bass and bream around the island, while on their travels they have located the best places for rabbits. Like the red kite reintroduction the important factor was releasing them in areas of high and varied food availability. I can see the day, however, when their number

grows and we have older, more established birds there. A pecking order, like hens in a run, will probably develop, as seems to have happened with your kites.’ All of this made absolute sense, though it led me to another question: Were the scenes I was witnessing something new or, in fact, something very old indeed? While our numbers are still nothing compared to former times – the Victorian gamekeeper’s ‘vermin’ cull records prove that – there are now more kites in Scotland

Pullar, ‘Red Kite Delight’, Scots Magazine, August 2018

Red kites gather for the winter roost

Photo by Philip Price

than there have been for over a century, and at Argaty our small daily food dump must rival the amount of carrion found on farms and in the countryside back then. On our farm we are drawing slowly closer to the natural balance found in that distant past and perhaps we are witnessing different sides to these birds as a result. Could it be that the kite we think we know – mildmannered, gregarious, cordial with its neighbours – is not the bird that inhabited this country centuries ago? When there were more kites, was there more competition between them? Were they forced to hunt more frequently, simply to survive? Did they fight one another for food? We’ll likely never know the answers, and while I’ll never subscribe to the distorted and overblown views of kites that our ancestors handed down to us, part of me now wonders if the bird they knew was indeed different to the one I know. We have been watching kites for just twenty-three years, a blink in time. What if we were to fastforward another twenty-three? I’ll be in my late fifties, growing older, not in the winter of my life, I hope, but certainly in the autumn. I’ll have changed, for sure. Will the birds?

As I sat pondering this another kite swung past, turning on the breeze at just the right moment, allowing me a perfect view of her wing tags. On her left wing was the customary red given to every kite chick that hatched in this area; on her right a white tag. A second fly-past and I caught sight of the code printed on each. S4, the chick from our CCTV camera nest who fledged too early and had to be rescued, only to be rescued again later when she injured her wing.

‘Guess who I saw diving for food the other day,’ I said to Keith when next I saw him. ‘S4!’

A satisfied grin spread across his face. ‘S4!’ he said. ‘Cocky wee bird! Thought she could fly the moment she hatched. She was like that when we ringed her, too. Soon as she saw my face peering into the nest she

tried to fly. I had to put my arms round the nest and usher her away from the edge. I gave her good lectures then, and when we rescued her the next week. I told her: “Bloody stay put till you’re big enough to go!” Christ, if you’d seen the branch she was hanging from when I got to her you’d never think she’d have

survived! It was tiny, and she was barely on it. If she’d been a person she’d have been hanging by her fingernails!’

I repeated what Stewart Miller, the falconer who’d rehabilitated the kite shot in 2009, had told me, that every bird is different, that they all have their own wee quirks.

‘Maybe some think they’re more grown up than they really are,’ I suggested.

‘Definitely,’ Keith agreed. A beatific smile remained on his face for the rest of the day. What a feeling it must be to know that you’ve saved a life, and that eight years later that creature is still alive and well, living free.

by

by

Red kites and buzzards feeding in the winter

Photo

Philip Price Photo

Lynn Bowser

‘Strike a pose’ - A kite takes to the sky with a fistful of food

NORTHERN ISLES News

Government meeting secured amid calls for abattoir Orkney steering group continues to consider slaughter facility feasibility, following 2022 study

By Ethan Flett

Calls to reinstate an abattoir in Orkney have gained the attention of Scotland’s agriculture minister, as a local steering group looks into the viability of a new facility.

In the Scottish Parliament last week, MSPs secured a meeting with minister Jim Fairlie, amid cross-party calls for support of bespoke slaughter solutions in Orkney.

Speaking at Rural Affairs Questions on Wednesday, Highlands and Islands MSP, Jamie Halcro Johnston and Orkney’s MSP, Liam McArthur, highlighted that local abattoirs are an integral part of the infrastructure supporting farming communities.

They noted that the closure of the Orkney abattoir in 2018 had been keenly felt.

Since 2022, Orkney Auction Mart have been looking into the viability of a small-scale slaughter facility. A feasibility study was carried out by consultants 5 Agri, off the back of funding sourced by Orkney Islands Council.

In October 2023, councillors heard that there was likely to be a “positive” outcome of the research, with a draft report on the work finished that month.

At that stage, discussions had centred on a smaller, bespoke facility, housed in an off-the-shelf modular building, with a price tag of around £750,000.

Since then, off the back of the study, a steering group has been further exploring the possibility of a local abattoir.

This week, NFUS regional policy advisor for Orkney, John Laughton, told The Orcadian:

“We are part of the steering group and keen to see this progress, if financially viable.”

Last Wednesday (September 11), the issue of an Orkney abattoir was brought up in Holyrood by Mr Halcro Johnston, whose family farm in the county.

He said that in the six years since the closure of the abattoir, despite the effort that has gone into exploring it locally and “warm words” from the government, “no solution has yet been found for a new facility.”

“Local abattoirs play an important role in supporting local rural businesses in agriculture, ensuring animal welfare, and reducing food miles,” the MSP added.

“And, so on Back British Farming Day, can the minister advise me if the Scottish Government is playing any role currently in supporting the establishment of a new abattoir in Orkney?”

Mr Fairlie said that he was prepared to engage with Orkney’s representatives on what the government can do to support a facility in the county.

Mr McArthur asked that the minister “ensures the Scottish Government give whatever support they can to the delivery of an abattoir that is much-needed in the islands I represent.”

In response, the Mr Fairlie added: “I can give that absolute assurance that I am more than happy to meet the member and I am absolutely prepared to engage with what- ever it is we can do to support any small abattoir.”

Commenting afterwards, Mr McArthur said: “I was pleased to hear the minister echo my comments about the importance of small abattoirs for farming communities.

“Indeed, it is difficult to think of another community that relies more heavily on agriculture than Orkney. The closure of the abattoir in 2018 has been keenly felt by

many farmers and crofters in the islands.

“Indeed, it has also had an adverse impact on our wider food and drink sector.

“For a community as heavily dependent on agriculture as Orkney, having a local abattoir is so important. I know that a great deal of work has gone into scoping proposals for a new, bespoke abattoir that can be sustained over the longer term.

“I look forward to working with the minister, other Highlands and Islands MSPs as well as with local farming representatives to see how best these proposals can be put into practice.”

Following the exchange in parliament, Mr Halcro Johnston said: “Local abattoirs play such a vital role in supporting local rural businesses, in allowing better animal welfare, and in reducing food miles.

“I know a lot of work has been done by folk in Orkney to look at what would work best for the islands, and also what would be sustainable in the long term.

“But that local work will likely need some support from Scottish ministers.

“While I am disappointed the agriculture minister was unable to tell me how the Scottish Government was supporting these efforts, I do welcome Jim Fairlie’s offer to meet with me.

“I will be hoping to extend that invitation to other parliamentary colleagues and local stakeholders so that we can work collaboratively towards getting the local abattoir a farming community like Orkney should have”.

Orkney’s abattoir closed its doors in 2018. Pictured are operations at the premises in 2015.

Irish farms share many similarities with crofts: landscape, soils, common grazings and small farm size, farmers and crofters have learned during a trip to Ireland

The Farm Advisory Service supported travel for producers from across Shetland, as well as Lewis, Harris, Wester Ross, Argyll and Tiree.

The aim of the visit was to learn how the Irish optimise income from small units, with trips being organised by SAC consultants from Lerwick and the rest of the crofting counties as part of their contract to deliver the Scottish government’s national Farm Advisory Service programme of training and support.

Fifty-five crofters, in two groups, travelled across to Galway, and to Wicklow, meeting local farmers and Irish Teagasc advisors.

Teagasc, the Irish equivalent of Scotland’s Rural College, pulled out all the stops, arranging farm visits centred around their “Better Sheep” scheme, farmers who were engaging in livestock improvement through data analysis and genetics, and farmers who had diversified into specialist sectors.

The first group, which travelled to Galway and Connemara in the west of Ireland included 13 Shetland crofters. A range of different business sizes and types were represented, including young crofters and new entrants – as well as well-established members of the Shetland crofting community.

The group toured Teagasc’s sheep research centre at Athenry, seeing its permanent sites, and was shown demonstrations of the effects of different agrienvironmental measures, or different multi species swards.

Much of the research is similar (and shared) with SRUC/SAC in Scotland, including methane

measuring chambers and the SMART sheep programme, which brings together leading academic institutes, industrial partners and sheep health experts to build and develop methods to encourage the use of technology to improve onfarm decision-making.

The hope is to build on past collaborations, and look at climate change adaptation, mitigation and boosting biodiversity.

Crofters and farmers were also shown the Irish outcomeled agri-environment scheme, which is seen as a refreshing take on managing habitats based on results, not prescriptions.

The group also visited a small-scale sheep and cattle unit to learn more about the significant environmental and business benefits of using data to inform breeding and culling policies, even on the smallest of units.

They saw examples of diversified units as well, and visited one of Ireland’s leading Connemara pony producers, as an example of a highly-specialised niche producer.

Also on the agenda was a visit to a small farmhouse cheese producer, which not only used its own milk, but also welcomed visitors to tour the farm and sample its wares. This proved

www.shetlandtimes.co.uk

Tel: 01595 742000

a memorable example of the potential to diversify into selling value-added products.

The study tours were aimed at paving the way to setting up five discussion groups across the crofting counties, led by local SAC consultants, with Osla Jamwal-Fraser, isles consultant for SAC, facilitating the Shetland group.

The tours were designed to attract individual businesses into the discussion groups, provide an opportunity to network, and offer plenty of topics to kick- start local meetings.

There were plenty of useful conversation exchanging knowledge and experiences, not only between the Irish and Scots but also between the crofters participating, sharing experience from different crofting areas and systems.

Discussion was had on which bits of technology and measuring tools would fit with systems back home.

There was also much discussion on the benefits of remaining in the EU, and the political power of a larger farming proportion of voters, evident in the range and scale of support available in the Irish system, as well as the incentives

In association with

available to improve biodiversity and mitigate climate change.

Among those taking part was Derek Jamieson of Unst, who has 800 breeding ewes and a dozen kye on his north isles holding.

He said the exercise had been well worthwhile, not least because it taught him about how things continued to be done in an EU country..

“I knew it was going to be a group of crofters from Shetland going over there, and also joined by some crofters from the Western Isles and west coast of Scotland,” he said.

“What we learned in Ireland was really interesting to me. I knew systems would be roughly similar, but I wanted to see how they did it.

“It was also interesting, of course, because they’re still in the European Union, to see how things are happening there.”

Mrs Jamwal-Fraser said the visit had proved well worthwhile.

“It was a real pleasure to be able to support local crofters taking up this opportunity, and the feedback has been great. We had a super group of really engaged folk who brought a lot to the group and who I think got a lot from it too –we couldn’t have asked for a better group of folk to represent Shetland for this.

“They are all keen to keep a discussion group going too, so watch this space for meetings and events coming later in the year.

“The group that came to Ireland is hopefully just the beginning. Future events will, of course, be open to everybody else interested in sharing their experience and learning from likeminded folk.”

www.orcadian.co.uk Tel: 01856 879000

RSABI Great Glen Challenge

For the first time Women in Agriculture Scotland (WiAS) entered a team in the RSABI Great Glen Challenge.

The team was entered way back in April and by the time we got to the end of August we had three new team members, mainly due to injury and illness.

The team consisted of Alix Ritchie (walking), Diane Mailer (cycling), Emma Milne (running), Lynda McLean (kayaking) and Team Captain, Carole Brunton (support driver).

Some of whom stepped in at the last minute.

The Great Glen Challenge was established as a unique and exciting one-day team challenge, the ultimate test for rural businesses and organisations. Our team embarked on a thrilling journey, competing against the other twenty-six teams along designated stages from Fort Augustus to Fort William. Covering a breathtaking 49 km route through stunning Scottish scenery.

This was no mean feat with Diane starting in Fort Augustus at 9am to embark on her 49km cycle to Benavie, next up was Lynda who kayaked 6km down Loch Oich and as if that wasn’t enough, was then tested with a time trial at the end.

Alix started her 18km walk at Invergarry, in a group three which consisted of 9 which included the eventual winner who had legs twice the length of Alix’s, their route took them through Easter Mandally, North

Laggan down to Clunes, where Emma began her 17km run to the beautiful Neptune’s Staircase at Benavie, where everyone was there to meet the runners.

This was followed by a reception at the Moorings Hotel where all the teams were fed, watered, and waited anxiously on the results of the stages and the team event.

The overall winners were Scottish Woodlands for the second year running, Johnston Carmichael in second and NFUS

Women in Agriculture

third – well done to all of them and to everyone who took part.

This was a fantastic day with great camaraderie, adventure, laughter, and support for Scottish Agriculture. Fortunately, the sun did shine on the day which made it a much more pleasant experience for all the competitors and volunteers who are stationed through the route to ensure everyone is safe and hydrated and handing out jelly babies.

Our thanks must go to RSABI for putting on such a magnificent event which is supported by many rural businesses and organisations, I’m sure there are a lot of sleepless nights beforehand for the organising team, but the event went seamlessly. Thank you also for the support of Gillespie MacAndrew the main sponsor, Retties & The Scottish Farmer.

Thank you to all who sponsored our team and the other 26 teams with the total raised sitting at £57K, it goes to show how important RSABI, and their work is to the farming community.

Women in Agriculture Scotland hosted a fabulous event at Douneside House, Tarland, on Friday 16th August, bringing people from across the industry and Northeast together for an informative and dynamic day.

The event, led by Alison Ross of Craskins Farm, Tarland, was well attended and included inspirational speakers, networking activities, a delicious lunch, and a tour of the stunning gardens at Douneside House.

Louise Urquhart from Louise’s farm kitchen spoke

about her journey from farm to fork, and how the business has grown to meet demand. Louise sells off farm through her pop-up shop, as well as attending local farmers markets. She is also extremely busy preparing and supplying hog roasts for local events and private parties.

Mike Duxbury from Inclusive Farm Scotland at MacRobert gave an inspirational talk, from his journey from losing his sight at an early age, through to his experience both in and out the industry, right through to his most recent project which is in collaboration with The MacRobert Trust and is focused on enabling opportunity for people with disabilities and difference, through practical hands-on training in agriculture.

Following the presentations we had a delicious seasonal lunch, made from produce grown from their own garden.

To conclude the day, Stephen McCallum, Head Gardener at The MacRobert Trust, gave an overview on the history of Douneside House and The MacRobert Trust, and followed with a tour of the beautiful gardens which were in full bloom.

Our thanks goes to The MacRobert Trust for their support and sponsorship, and to those who attended and supported the event.

Head to the Women in Agriculture Scotland website to register for the Autumn event & AGM which is on 6th November at The Den @ Culross with some fantastic speakers and workshops.

Southern Belle

Living my best life

The swallows are gone and the Barnacle geese are back and for the first time they were all here together for a month! Watching the geese I am reminded of Sir Alex Fergusson on the training pitch one day pointing to the geese flying above and stating to his players “Now that’s organisation!”

One of my good friends and neighbour took ill this week and ended up in hospital. She is fighting an ongoing battle with dementia, while retaining her great sense of humour by shouting “Taps Aff” when the sun comes out.

While having coffee with her husband yesterday, he was reflecting on the things he thought he should maybe have done when they were both fitter. I hope I put his mind at rest that they did, in fact, have a very full life but he gave me one of the greatest compliments ever when he said, he always thought I did everything “to live my best life!”

Like him, I had spent more time than was necessary (on hindsight) working. However, that never stopped me spending time with my amazing daughter and best friend or my other friends. Now semi-retired (ha ha) I never turn down a

coffee/wine invitation with friends, no matter what I’m doing. Rugby club minutes can always wait…..I find all too often.

Friends are not always the ones you spend most time with but those you have the best time with and I am lucky to have the best time every day with my walking buddy, my coffee buddy, and my wine buddies (mostly all the same people) and of course the “Village Girls” who enjoyed our regular “girls night” this week at my house.

Old age isn’t something you get to practise. It creeps up on you and before you know it the days of embarrassing your daughter by lying about your age to get into the cinema as a concession, have gone and the programmes you are watching on television are interrupted by adverts for seniors cruises , walk in baths (what’s that all about?) and how to leave a gift in your will. Firstly make sure you HAVE a will!!!

Living your best life, is doing stuff that makes you and more importantly other people happy. Feed off you friends, they are the best health and strength you will ever have and live your best life for as long as you can.

Pepparkakor

By Wendy Barrie

In olden days, Pepparkakor (ginger biscuits) these were always cut into shapes of the farmer, his wife and his piglets. Heartshaped ones make beautiful window decorations and the same recipe can be used to make this gingerbread house, intricately decorated. The walls and roof can be secured with royal icing as a child friendly option, otherwise I would recommend using piping-hot caramelised sugar that hardens immediately, locking each section in place. Decorate with royal icing rather than glace icing for a more durable finish.

Ingredients:

350g plain flour

1tsp bicarbonate of soda

2tsps ground ginger

1tsp cinnamon

100g butter

Method:

175g soft brown sugar

1 egg

4tbsps golden syrup

1tbs double cream

• Line a baking sheet with parchment. Heat oven 190°C.

• Sift dry ingredients into a bowl and rub in butter to mixture until it resembles breadcrumbs.

• Crack the egg into a bowl, adding syrup and cream. Whisk together with a fork and add to dry mix, using the fork to blend thoroughly into a paste.

• Turn onto lightly floured surface. Using your hands, mould together to form a smooth dough.

• Roll out thinly on a floured surface and cut into desired shapes (freehand or templates available in specialist shops). Rolling between 2 sheets of baking parchment allows one to roll the dough more thinly. Lift carefully onto baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes or so, checking until a rich rust colour. The dough must be very toasted, not bland in colour or it will be too soft a biscuit to construct a house.

• Rest for a few minutes to firm up before placing on a wire cooling tray and leave to harden.

Makes 1 house, 8 gingerbread folk or many more biscuits if small

This recipe is an excerpt from Meadows: The Swedish Farmer & The Scottish Cook by Bosse Dahlgren & Wendy Barrie

Photograph © Wendy Barrie

NFU Scotland calls for farm assurance change

Members recognise benefits of farm assurance, but schemes must work in the best interests of primary producers

NFU Scotland’s submission to the independent UK Farm Assurance Review (FAR) has called for current farm assurance systems to change and that farm assurance schemes must work more for the interests of the primary producer in the future.

In its submission, the Union stated that members recognised some of the benefits which assurance schemes provide, but that there were many fundamental issues which must be addressed. Those issues included:

• Perceived lack of value for money that assurance schemes provide.

• The growing audit burden on farms and crofts.

• Concerns about the governance of schemes.

Writing NFU Scotland’s submission, Director of Policy Jonnie Hall said: “NFU Scotland has been in support of the principles of farm assurance for decades and remains so. But many of our farming and crofting members, across a full range of sectors, have used this review to

make clear a significant number of concerns around the function and value of current schemes. Those must be taken forward by the review to ensure farm assurance schemes are fit for purpose and serve the needs of our farmers and crofters in the future.

“We look to the appointed independent commissioners carrying out the review to make clear recommendations that, when adopted, will improve audit systems, utilise technology, rebuild trust, improve communications, and introduce more transparency and accountability into our farm assurance schemes.”

NFU Scotland is seeking outcomes from the review that result in the following;

• Assurance schemes deliver meaningful change for members and act on the recommendations that are put forward.

• Deliver greater value for money to scheme members through premiums, preferential market access or promotion of

FARMING SCOTLAND

Scottish and British produce.

• Progress is made to address the on-farm audit burden, reduce complexity and duplication, and change the culture of audit to one that guides and supports good practice.

• Concerns about farmer representation and trust in the governance of assurance schemes are addressed.

• Assurance schemes can challenge buyers’ sourcing policies which undermine domestic standards.

• Consumer trust in domestic and export markets for Scottish and British food is enhanced.

• The unique needs of different sectors in the assurance landscape are recognised. Mr Hall added: “We fully support the intentions and purpose of the review. It presents a significant opportunity for farmers and crofters, supply chain actors, stakeholders and assurance schemes to find a new way forward to address the many concerns of the primary producer.”

Samson Group A/S, nice results despite challenges

Despite a challenging machinery sector in large parts of Europe, SAMSON GROUP A/S has again delivered strong annual profits for the 2023/24 financial year. The Group’s focus on sustainable solutions and efficient use of natural fertilisers remains a successful strategy.

SAMSON GROUP A/S recorded a net turnover of €127.2 million for the 2023/24 financial year, which representing a drop of 18% compared to the €155 million achieved the year before. Profit before tax was €6 million compared to €14.3 million last year.

Strategic investments and market adaptation

“Despite a significant slowdown in the willingness of end customers to invest in key markets in Europe, SAMSON GROUP A/S has managed to deliver good profits for 2023/24. Our net turnover fell, but we have maintained our investment plans and expanded production capacity. We continue to see strong demand from agricultural contractors and our ambition to consolidate SAMSON GROUP A/S as Europe’s leading manufacturer of natural fertiliser spreaders remains unchanged,” says Lars Henriksen, CEO of SAMSON GROUP A/S.

“Agriculture, especially the livestock sector, is facing a significant transition to meet climate and geopolitical objectives. The EU’s agricultural policy is supporting the sector’s transition towards more sustainability, but there are big differences in how climate targets are realised in individual member states. Our industry organisation, CEMA, reports a persistent recession in the agricultural machinery industry

across the EU, with historically low willingness to invest. Still, sustainability and precision agriculture are key themes for many of our customers,” Lars Henriksen continues.

Green investments and growth

The financial outlook for 2024/25 is in line with the previous financial year as there are no significant changes in sight in the coming months in terms of sales in the main markets. Besides Denmark, the main markets include Germany, Poland and France.

Despite a temporary decline in the overall market, SAMSON is optimistic about the future and is investing heavily in new technologies for slurry spreading. This will result in a new factory building of almost 6,000 m², which, among other things, will provide space for a completely newly developed boom program that will optimise the application of slurry by reducing emissions and increasing benefits for the farmer. The factory expansion is expected to be ready in February 2025.

“Even though we are facing cyclical fluctuations across Europe, the direction is clearly pointing towards an increasing need for machines and implements that help farmers to maximise the use of nutrients in natural fertiliser while protecting the environment as much as possible. A climate agenda where SAMSON wants to be at the forefront of technical solutions in natural fertiliser. That is why we are currently investing millions in factory capacity for trailing shoe booms and further optimisation of the production facilities in Viborg” says Chairman of the Board Christian Junker.

Greater efficacy for the LEMKEN Thulit weeder harrow

With the Thulit MF/1200, LEMKEN presents its first weeder harrow with more than 12 metres working width. The new model is based on the innovative properties of the Thulit MF product series launched last year. The design with four bars and eight rows of harrow tines and hydraulic tine pressure adjustment is unique on the market. The tine pressure can be continuously adjusted from 100g to 5,000g across the entire width during travel and remains constant at every setting – for optimum and reliable work results.

The new Thulit MF/1200 comprises five harrow sections. This means that various folding options are available for different

applications. To work with a reduced working width, for example to avoid obstacles or to prevent overlapping, the weeder harrow can be folded into four or three working sections. For greater ground clearance at the headland, LEMKEN offers the option of folding the weeder harrow into a V position. To do this, the outer folding segments are angled slightly upwards to prevent the tools from coming into contact with the ground. For convenient and safe road transport, the weeder harrow can be folded in on both sides to a transport height of 3.3 metres. The automatic transport locking system is active in all variants,

making manual intervention a thing of the past.

For the frame, LEMKEN uses torsion-resistant support profiles that guarantee both stability and low weight. The frame design with six support wheels at the front, distributed across the entire

working width, has an extremely positive effect on the smooth running of the machine and thus on the guidance of the harrow tines to the soil surface. The Thulit MF/1200 can additionally be operated as a rigid implement or with ground contour adjustment.

AgriSpread offers greater spreading versatility

AgriSpread offers a large range of AS Series mechanical land drive and hydraulic drive ISOBUS twin-disc spreader models options, capable of spreading fertiliser to 36mtrs and lime/basalt/bulk flowable products up to 12-16mtrs. Their versatile fertiliser and lime spreaders are a perfect fit and well suited to Scottish farming conditions with large flotation wheels, stainless steel key components and full stainless-steel hopper, robustly built for stability in lime/basalt spreading and bulk products with small, medium & large capacity models available in single and tandem axle.

Available in 16 x model versions with a large choice of hopper capacities in two ranges:

AS 2000 Series 8 x Models (6m3 – 16.8 m3). Hydraulic Drive ISOBUS versions only.

AS 1000-2K Series 8 x Models (2.6m3 – 13.9 m3).

Ground Drive & Hydraulic Drive ISOBUS options.

The AS Series spreaders incorporate high specification features with or without advanced precision technologies along with functional design to deliver the target rate to reduce input costs and improve crop response and growth.

All models feature hydraulically driven spinner disks (no PTO) that give optimal control of the spinner disk speeds for normal spreading, boundary spreading & various section

control spreading in single or twin floor belt options.

With ISOBUS dynamic automatic rate control, the product flow is constantly measured and automatically adjusted to maintain a precise application rate per/ha. Variable Rate Application is compatible with precision farming prescription maps and available as standard on all ISOBUS hydraulic drive models.

Load weight cells are mounted on a double chassis design which ensures they are shock proofed and available in “read only” and full “ISOBUS auto rate control” versions.

Available in Scotland via their UK distributor Dales Agri Sales Agency, who are fully committed to support farmers and contractors across the country.

FARMING SCOTLAND MAGAZINE

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BlackBird Single: Slim trailing shoe linkage from Vogelsang

With the new BlackBird Single trailing shoe linkage, Vogelsang GmbH & Co. KG is launching a compact and lightweight spreading system on the market. This allows farmers to spread liquid manure evenly, precisely and with low emissions on working widths of 7.5 to 12 meters. “With the BlackBird Single, we are offering modern liquid manure spreading technology which is suitable for smaller slurry tanks and working widths and meets the stricter legal requirements,” says

Henning Ahlers, Sales Manager Agricultural Technology Germany at Vogelsang.

With a weight of 1,050 kilograms for a working width of 12 meters, the BlackBird Single is particularly light. This is made possible by the runners, which consist of robust special plastic, and the slim linkage design with just one centrally installed precision distributor from the ExaCut series. The comparatively low weight of the trailing shoe linkage protects the ground during crossings and facilitates retrofitting and handling. The transport lock integrated into the folding cylinder also contributes to simplified retrofitting. Ahlers explains: “The standard transport lock is detached on the linkage side and makes it easier to retrofit the trailing shoe system to almost any slurry tanker.” Thanks to the integrated slope compensation, the BlackBird Single adapts perfectly to the ground conditions

and enables the slurry to be spread uniformly and precisely, even on hilly terrain.With a transport

width of 2.55 meters when folded, the BlackBird Single complies with legal regulations throughout

Europe. The trailing shoe linkage is available in working widths of 7.5, 9, 10.5 and 12 meters.

25 years JUMBO: Loader wagon from world market leader

Pöttinger celebrates its anniversary

The very first JUMBO was presented to the world in 1999 – a revolution in the agricultural machinery market. At the time, the JUMBO was regarded as “the new dimension in large-capacity silage wagons” and was the first and only system to stand up to the emerging field chopper. The JUMBO stood for efficiency, performance, top forage quality, operational reliability, economy, comfort and easy maintenance. And it was the first machine at

Pöttinger to be designed entirely with 3D CAD. JUMBO inventor Pöttinger is now the world market leader in loader wagons. With a stable export quota of around 90 per cent, the company from Grieskirchen is a highly relevant global player.

A quarter of a century of JUMBO – that’s 25 years of experience and development, which has resulted in numerous sensational innovations. An absolute novelty on the loader wagon market was the option for short-chopping the crop. The JUMBO 8000 model was the world’s first 25-millimetre harvester wagon. Other innovations include the EASY MOVE swing-out knife bank, which ensures ergonomic working. The JUMBO beater rotors are used to loosen the crop. The fully automated AUTOCUT knife sharpening system ensures consistent cutting quality throughout the entire working day. The pick-up is responsible for the clean and tidy collection of the crop. The once rigid front panel of the JUMBO 1000 has now become a movable, smart front panel. While the JUMBO was designed for tractors with up to 280 hp in 1999, the 7000 and 8000 series can be powered by tractors with a maximum of 500 hp.

The JUMBO has always been a guarantee for the best forage. As a favourite on farms and with contractors, it has dedicated fans around the world – even outside of agricultural work. In the Pöttinger fan shop, it’s not just T-shirts and caps for young and old that are very popular. The loader wagons in toy format, the JUMBO pedal tractor trailer for kids and many other elefantastic fan articles are also in great

FARMING SCOTLAND MAGAZINE

Next issue out January 2025

An unbeatable duo: The new LEMKEN Solitair with Zirkon power harrow

The demands on modern seed drill technology are constantly increasing. It’s good to know that the new mounted LEMKEN Solitair with a working width of 3 to 4 metres is perfectly equipped for both conventional and conservation tillage.

The LEMKEN Solitair MR series features a 1,500 litre tank, which is suitable for fertiliser even in its basic configuration. The tank is optionally available with a 2,000-litre capacity, which can be split 60:40 on request for simultaneous application of several components. Add the 200-litre

MultiHub to the tank and the Solitair takes efficacy and flexibility to new heights. Mixed crop systems can be cultivated in a single pass.

Seeds from the MultiHub are placed via the existing seed lines or via a baffle plate in front of or behind the harrows.

The MultiHub offers the same number of width sections as the seed drill. The controls are also very user-friendly: The MultiHub control is fully integrated into the user interface of the ISOBUS terminal as an additional seed line.

can confirm that the Homburg Delta Draincleaner is eligible under FETF 416 Grant Scheme

The Solitair MR is equipped with the maintenance-free OptiDisc coulter bar with row spacings of 12.5 or 15 cm and features parallelogram-guided double disc coulters and trailing depth control rollers for absolutely uniform field emergence. To achieve this, the coulter system is available in a hydraulic version (up to 70 kg coulter pressure) and a mechanical version (up to 45 kg coulter pressure). Both coulter pressure and seed depth can be adjusted independently of each other and do not affect each other. This is particularly useful in the increasingly popular cultivation of mixed crops. The correct placement depth for the different crops can be set by applying a separate drilling depth setting to each second row. Seeds are always placed at exactly the same depth, even at high forward speeds and in changing soils. The depth control roller then presses the seeds down to ensure rapid and even emergence.

McHale F5 Fixed Chamber Baler Range

The McHale F550 & F5000 fixed chamber baler ranges have been the machine of choice for farmers and contractors around the world for over two decades. This year, McHale are proud to present the new McHale F5 Range of Fixed Chamber Balers comprising of four models:

- F5-540: Non-Chopper Baler

- F5-550: 15 Knife Chopper, Semi-Automatic Baler

- F5-560: 25 Knife Chopper, Fully Automatic Baler

- F5-560 Plus: 25 Knife Chopper, Fully Automatic Film Binding Baler

The new F5 range introduces our newly designed Profi-Flo pick-up featuring enhanced

throughput and increased crop flow. Bale density and bale binding has increased in performance to produce higher density bales. A focus has also been placed on operator comfort whilst still ensuring the reliability and heavyduty build quality that McHale is renowned for is maintained.

In designing the new F5 range, operator comfort and friendliness were at the forefront of the machine’s development. All machines in the F5 range deliver a number of new features through their various control consoles, while ISOBUS compatible machines allow the operator to experience the highest level of customisation and machine performance.

For the purpose of this press release we will focus on the New McHale F5-550 which is the most popular machine in the market. Building on the renowned fixed chamber baler reputation, McHale has added the following new features:

Profi-Flo Pick-Up

McHale have designed their highest capacity pick-up for the F5 range. The new ProfiFlo pick-up has been designed to increase crop intake through more efficient crop flow and has been engineered to ensure end users are operating with a high-performance pick-up that is designed to suit various working conditions.

The new tapered feed channel encourages the crop to flow from the pick-up, towards the rotor and into the bale chamber, maximising throughput. To reduce maintenance, all ProfiFlo pick-ups are fitted with a heavier driveline which reduces chain load and increases chain life.

Customers can choose between a 5-tine bar cam track pick-up or, the optional, wider 6-tine bar camless pick-up. Behind the tines, customers will notice a number of changes to improve the flow of crop into the chamber.

McHale have also introduced the Adaptive Intake which has been specifically designed to allow the intake area to automatically adjust up and down to changes in material flow.

The design of this intake area has a number of advantages;

• It automatically adjusts to the volume of crop which allows

the machine capacity to be maximised in light and heavy rows / swaths.

• Intake area automatically adjusts to allow the machine to better handle uneven and lumpy rows / swaths.

• Better crop intake.

• Less chance of blockages occurring.

Case IH Unveils

New 2025 Farmall C Models: Redefining Power, Comfort, and Precision Technology for Modern Farmers

The next chapter in the legacy of Case IH’s Farmall tractors begins with the 2025 Farmall C models, a bold leap forward that delivers not only a fresh look but also significantly enhanced performance and cutting-edge precision farming technology.

For 2025, Case IH Farmall C tractors deliver customer-driven innovations that improve every aspect of the farming experience.

The 24-speed ActiveDrive 2 (HiLo) transmission in all models ensures smoother shifting and exceptional control, while the increased hydraulic pump capacity of 82 l/min translates into faster loader cycle times and more efficient operations. Additionally, the newly introduced ActiveClutch feature allows the tractor to be held on the brake pedal without requiring

the clutch, making it ideal for front loader applications.

From the 90C to the 120C, farmers will experience a new level of control, efficiency, and comfort, all while benefitting from precision technologies once reserved for larger, more advanced machines. Farmers can tackle even the most demanding tasks with confidence, knowing that their equipment is built to perform under pressure.

commitment to operator comfort. Long days in the field demand tractors that not only work harder but also make the job easier on the operator behind the wheel.

At the heart of this evolution in technology and design is a

A six-post cab offers superior visibility, while the repositioned

exhaust maintains the open, unobstructed view farmers have come to appreciate. While driving models specified with the optional new cab suspension system, the operator will immediately notice the difference in comfort.

New guidance system developed for New Holland T4 FNV specialty tractors

An advanced guidance system developed for New Holland T4 FNV specialty tractors has won a Technical Innovation award in the scheme run in advance of November’s EIMA International farm machinery exhibition. Alongside the new vision-based system, New Holland has been recognised twice more in the awards scheme with mentions for the Seed Terminator developed for the CR combine range and the CropSpeed system that features in the latest FR forage harvesters.

Developed to help address the lack of skilled operators faced by many specialty crop producers, and ease the workloads of such growers and their staff, Advanced Vision Assisted Guidance is LiDARbased, and manages steering movements both in the rows and at row ends, in addition to

rear implement control. As a result, it is effective in situations where GPS-based systems are not a solution. Benefits include increased safety and comfort from reduced operator fatigue, enabling closer attention to be given to machine operation. The technology has the potential to help retain experienced operators by relieving them of repetitive and arduous tasks, while also providing significant support to those less skilled. Greater precision also means reduced environmental risk and enhanced performance from optimised use of fertilisers and crop protection products based on real orchard or vineyard field conditions.

The system is based purely on LIDAR sensor technology, using simultaneous localisation and mapping algorithms, and with no GPS element there is no risk of errors and incidents

resulting from any loss of GPS signal caused by factors such as canopy coverage, netting, nearby greenhouses, or valley slopes. It is also able to recognise row ends and incorporates a path planner to perform headland turns, with

different path shapes available. A collision check mechanism means that if the headland does not have the required characteristics, the system will advise the operator, avoiding possible collisions with trees/plants or other objects.

Agricultural machinery manufacturer Claydon wins regional Global Britain Business of the Year Award

Agricultural machinery manufacturer Claydon Yield-o-Meter Limited, which exports to more than 30 countries from Europe to New Zealand, has been named regional Global Britain Business of the Year in the prestigious British Chamber Business Awards 2024. One of the most respected business award programs in the country, they celebrate the very best in British business by recognising the achievements of companies which are trading with the world in a successful, innovative way and helping to create a Global Britain.

Claydon Yield-o-Meter Limited, a family-owned company in Suffolk, is a leading innovator in

precision farming technology. The Global Britain Business of the Year award recognises its ‘outstanding contributions to British exports and pioneering approach to agricultural innovation on the global stage.’

“We are delighted to have won such a prestigious regional award and be one of the finalists at national level,” company founder Jeff Claydon states.

“Claydon Opti-Till® machinery is used by farmers all over the world, enabling them to transition from slow, expensive, energyintensive traditional methods of crop establishment to a much faster, highly efficient and more sustainable approach which

fits perfectly with the current drive towards regenerative agricultural practices. In addition to dramatically reducing the time and cost of establishing agricultural crops, enabling farming businesses to operate

much more efficiently, profitably, and sustainably, Opti-Till® also delivers many environmental benefits, including improved soil health and structure, lower carbon emissions and reduced soil erosion.

Traditional Baxters Hampers

Baxters Hampers is inviting you to explore its collection of meticulously crafted Christmas hampers. Experience the essence of timeless family tradition and enjoy trusted recipes curated with premium ingredients. These hampers are perfect for gifting and demonstrate thoughtful generosity, made easy with Baxters.

Step into a world of classic thoughtfulness with the Traditional Baxters Hamper. Featuring 14 timeless Baxters products from the last 150 years for your loved ones to enjoy. Delight in the cherished family classics, including the rich and comforting Cullen

Skink, the hearty Cock-a-Leekie Soup, and the velvety Cream of Tomato Soup. Elevate your dining experience with the robust flavours of Royal Game Soup and Scotch Broth. Accompanied by a trio of renowned chutneys – Albert’s Victorian, Caramelised Onion, and Classic Tomato – as well as indulgent jams, mint jelly, tartare sauce, and the iconic Wooden Spoon and Spurtle, this hamper embodies the essence of festive feasting.

RRP £50

Discover more at www.BaxtersOfScotland.com

Stoney Creek Thermal Clothing

Get warm and stay warm with the Stoney Creek 4-Piece Fleece Clothing Packs from Wild & Moor. They offer great value for money and include cold weather mid-layer essentials, such as a technical thermal t-shirt, track pants, micro-fleece and an insulating hat (skull cap) to help your body generate and retain

Travel in classic style with the new Rigby Travel Bag

Combining vintage charm with modern functionality, the new Rigby Travel Bag from London gunmaker John Rigby & Co. is set to become an essential companion for discerning travellers and adventurers alike.

Handcrafted in Spain, the bag features a striking vintage green cotton canvas exterior, beautifully complemented by premium honeycoloured cowhide leather handles, fixings, and bottom base corners for added durability. This ensures that the bag remains in pristine condition even after years of use. With a large zip opening, the interior reveals a fine brown herringbone lining that adds a touch of class. A padded laptop pocket ensures that your device is transported securely. The fully adjustable and detachable carry strap provides versatile carrying options, while the handy outer

zip-closing front pocket allows for quick and convenient storage of small essentials.

Adorned with the iconic Rigby ‘double R’ logo on a leather oval, the Rigby Travel Bag measures 55 x 36 x 25 cm, offering ample space for a weekend getaway and is designed to accompany you on a lifetime of adventures.

£720, plus P&P.

To shop, visit: www.johnrigbyandco.com/shop/ rigby-travel-bag

USB Rechargeable Hand Warmers

heat, while allowing it to breathe. There are fleece packs for men (from sizes S to 4XL) and kids 4-piece ‘Hunters’ packs (from age 2 to 14). Both are ideal for farming during the cold weather. Stoney Creek 4 Piece Fleece

Packs - £79.95

www.wildandmoor.co.uk

If you, or a loved one, find it difficult to get warm or suffer from cold hands and feet, then a rechargeable hand warmer could be just what you need. The Ocoopa hand warmer from Wild & Moor is actually two warmers magnetically connected to each other and can be used either as a single warmer or as two. Having two warmers can be extremely useful for heating hand-warming pockets in a coat or pre-heating

your boots before venturing into the cold. Each USB rechargeable warmer lasts for hours, has a power indicator, and can also be used as an emergency powerbank for charging your phone, torch or other device. An ideal gift for tackling the winter weather.

Ocoopa Hand Warmers - £26.95 & £28.95 www.wildandmoor.co.uk

gift ideas for Xmas

Based in Falkirk, Victoria Faith is an artist who finds great inspiration in wildlife, nature and other animals. She specialises in local wildlife and pet portraits but is inspired by all creatures. Victoria’s style leans towards realistic portraiture with clean backgrounds and offers commissions of your own loved pets. You will find her with pencil in hand at events all over Scotland, from Highland Shows to Christmas Markets.

ARTISAN The gift ideas for

My names is James Ritchie I’m an artist blacksmith base in Muir of Ord. I went to Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design in 2015 after graduating with a BA honours in Fine Art and Sculpture I moved back home to the Highlands. I was unsure what I wanted to do after university but it so happened that I signed up for a two-day basic blacksmith course and fell in love with it. I knew I wanted to try and take my degree in art and design further but with something new that I’d never done before. The blacksmithing let me do this. I start by getting the tools of the trade (anvil, forge, work bench and tools). I slowly over the next 6 months learned and experimented with the art of shaping and manipulating steel. Once I felt my work was good enough to sell, I signed up for a few craft markets and the work proved to be very popular, I’ve never looked back.

Boxed Wire Cheese Cutters - £28

Boxed Bottle Openers - £28

Herb Choppers - Small £35, Larger £55

Animal Head Fire Pokers (Ram and Stag) - £60

Highland Cow Wall Sculpture Large £3500, Small £500

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

John Davis Kubota (UK) has appointed John Davis as agricultural and ground care dealer manager for the south and south west of England.

Clearly passionate about farming and machinery, John has worked in the industry since leaving school, where he enrolled in an apprenticeship scheme with former dealer Tincknells, some 30 years ago.

He joins Kubota following eight years with a specialist manufacturer, and brings with him considerable experience gained during his most recent role with self-propelled crop spraying equipment.

“I’m looking forward to being challenged with continual dealer development and brand-building, to introduce Kubota to a much wider audience in the agricultural and ground care sectors,” said John. “Kubota is a company that is growing, and there are lots of opportunities to be part of that growth and success.”

MarkPaton OMEX has appointed Mark Paton as its district sales manager for Scotland where the company is experiencing significant growth in liquid nitrogen fertiliser sales from all sectors of agriculture.

Mark brings considerable agricultural experience with over 30 years in the industry. A degree from Edinburgh University in Agriculture and Forestry followed by a chartered surveyor qualification, lead to employment with Smiths Gore. A switch to grain trading gave Mark 20 years of experience honing his sales skills in Scotland.

“OMEX liquid fertiliser sales in Scotland have grown exponentially in the last few years with interest coming from the arable sector initially, but more recently livestock farmers where there is a huge untapped market,” Mark explains.

Laura Miller

H&H Group Plc announce the promotion of Laura Millar to the role of Director of Strategy for the continuing development of the Group’s nationally respected Harrison & Hetherington livestock trading operation. Now in her new role as the first ever Director of Strategy, Laura will take responsibility for the delivery of the full range of long term strategic projects for the Harrison & Hetherington Senior Management Team, building on the company’s continuing success within the UK’s livestock trading industry. Based at Borderway in Carlisle and reporting directly to the Managing Director of Harrison & Hetherington she will bring her expertise and her deep-rooted understanding of the agricultural industry to bear on the development of sustainable strategies that will help make the business fit for the future and extend the value and relevance of the company’s services to a growing customer base.

Elio Bartoli

Yokohama TWS is pleased to announce the appointment of Elio Bartoli as its new company President, effective December 1st. Elio Bartoli succeeds Paolo Pompei, who is stepping down to pursue external opportunities after an impressive tenure with the company.

Elio Bartoli brings a strong display of leadership experience, including the last 12 years in various strategic roles at Yokohama TWS. His tenure has included positions such as Commercial Leader of Industrial Tires, and most recently, President of the EMEA Region and Global OE Leader. In these roles, he consistently demonstrated outstanding leadership across both commercial and operational functions, driving significant growth and delivering exceptional business results.

“We are thrilled to welcome Elio as our new President,” said Nitin Mantri, Co-COO of Yokohama, and Head of OHT division. “His deep industry knowledge, strategic vision, and customer focus make him the perfect leader to guide Yokohama TWS into its next phase of growth. We are confident that under Elio’s leadership, the company will continue to deliver exceptional value to our customers, partners, and stakeholders.”

THE BOOK SHELF The Gravity of Feathers

by Andrew Fleming

St Kilda is perhaps Scotland’s most famous archipelago, situated forty miles west of the Hebrides. When the last 36 inhabitants of St Kilda were evacuated in 1930, these islands at ‘the edge of the world’ lost their permanent population after five thousand years. The traditional view has been that the islanders’ reticence to adapt to the modern world is what led to the community’s demise. However, this newly-released book by academic Andrew Fleming sets out to challenge the mainstream opinion. The Gravity of Feathers: Fame, Fortune and the Story of St Kilda shows how the residents sacrificed their reputation as an uncorrupted, ideal society to embrace and exploit the tourist trade. Andrew Fleming, who has studied St Kilda for many years, tells the absorbing and eventful story of St Kilda from earliest times up to the evacuation.

Fleming utilises a wide range of previously untapped sources, bringing a fresh perspective to the intricate story of these islands. In this narrative, there is plenty to interest both those well-versed in St Kilda’s history and complete newcomers alike. The Gravity of Feathers offers a fascinating, nuanced analysis on what precisely caused this rich community to lose their unique

way of life. Rather than placing the blame sorely on the islanders’ supposed inability to cope with a changing world, Fleming examines the various forces exerted on them which made the subsistence of their community impossible. As a former professor at The University of Stirling with a background in landscape archaeology, Andrew Fleming deftly lends his expertise to this captivating and complex subject. He has also conducted archaeological work on St Kilda’s largest island, Hirta, giving him first-hand experience as well as academic familiarity with the archipelago.

This book brings to life the rich culture of the islanders themselves, as well as the various outsiders who engaged with the remote community. The narrative offers challenging commentary on the pervasive desire to spectate on a different way of life, as this tight-knit island community was perceived as a spectacle which many would travel a great distance merely to observe. St Kilda’s inhabitants indeed faced centuries of intense scrutiny. Andrew Fleming treats these subjects with respect and dignity in The Gravity of Feathers, the comprehensive story of St Kilda, a local history like no other.

The Gravity of Feathers by Andrew Fleming is published by Birlinn in October 2024 (£10.99) www.birlinn.co.uk