Anglia Farmer January 2021 by Countrywide Publications

January 2021

Anglia

Farmer

INCORPORATING ANGLIA MACHINERY

Arable: Wheat area bounces back as oilseed rape decline continues

News Step-change for agriculture in 2021 Arable Wheat rebounds as rape falls further Seed varieties Revised ratings for recommended list Crop management Low-down on spring pulse options Livestock Industry joins forces to save live exports

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Anglia

OPINION Johann Tasker

Farmer EDITORIAL Editor:

Johann Tasker | T: 07967 634971 E: johann@ruralcity.co.uk

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Anglia Farmer is a controlled circulation magazine published monthly for farmers and growers in the eastern counties. To be included on the circulation list, a farmer must have a minimum of 70 acres of land, or 50 dairy/beef stock, or 50 breeding sows/250 growing stock, or 15,000 laying hens/broiler chickens. Intensive horticulture units are required to have a minimum of two hectares. Subscription is £18 a year (including postage). No responsibility can be accepted by the publishers for the opinions expressed by contributors. If you no longer wish to receive this magazine, please email your name, address and postcode as it appears on the wrapper to jade.soanes@micropress.co.uk © Countrywide Publications 2020 Published by Countrywide Publications, Fountain Way, Reydon Business Park, Reydon Suffolk IP18 6DH T: 01502 725800 Printed by Micropress Ltd, Suffolk. T: 01502 725800

he start of a new year is usually welcome news – and the start of 2021 is more welcome than most after what has been a terrible 12 months. Last year had more than its fair share of challenges from beginning to end. A record-breaking wet winter, a dry spring and the worst harvest for decades. And that’s before we’ve even mentioned the coronavirus pandemic. The new year allows us to look to the future. And we do so in the belief that things will be better – and certainly in the hope that they won’t be any worse. It is fair to say that farming faces some big challenges – many of them bigger than those faced by other sectors of the economy. As well as Brexit, growers and livestock producers face the biggest changes to farm support for some 50 years. Direct payments – a vital source of income for many farm businesses – start to be phased out this year. Due to be gone within seven years, they will be replaced by a new system of support requir-

Contents

ing farmers to undertake environmental work on their land. In this issue of Anglia Farmer, we look at the implications of this major change in farm policy. Direct payments make up the bulk of profits on many farms. Without them, it is clear that farmers will have to work harder to stay in business. It is clear too that early planning will be key. The farmers best placed to survive – and indeed thrive – will be those who run a tight ship by astutely optimising their output and income streams while keeping a lid on production costs. It’s easier said than done, of course. But it has seldom been more important. And as farm business consultants point out, there are still great opportunities to improve financial performance in many sectors of the farming industry. If we get it right, a stronger and more resilient farming industry will be best able to meet many of the challenges that lie ahead – this year and beyond. Happy New Year – and all the best for 2021.

Vol 41 • No 1 • January 2021

News . ................................................................... 4

Livestock . ........................................................ 42

Arable . ................................................................. 8

Profile: Worstead Estate............................. 44

In the field .........................................................14

Professional Services.................................. 49

Arable: Recommended List 2021 ............. 17

Anglia Machinery......................................... 55

Spring crop management........................... 27

Final say............................................................ 62

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News Step-change beckons for agriculture in 2021 • Phase-out starts for direct payments • Bigger focus on profitable enterprises • Opportunity to improve performance

rowers and livestock producers are being urged to adjust quickly to a brave new world which includes the phasing out of direct support. The coming year will see a step-change for UK agriculture – and a new business environment which is likely to be more testing, according to an Outlook 2021 report by Andersons farm business consultants. “The hope is that 2021 will see life return to the ‘old normal’ after the upheaval of Covid-19 – however the farming sector faces a further set of challenges,” said Richard King, Andersons partner and head of business research. “The end of the transition period marks the start of the real Brexit. The friction in trade between ourselves and our trading partner will be much greater – leading to higher costs which may well be passed back down the supply chain.” Independent trade deals with

other countries could be on the horizon said Mr King. While this might be good for some sectors, it could be bad for others – and it could pose a special challenge for farmers. “The danger here is that access to our agricultural market is granted in return for concessions elsewhere. UK farmers could be faced with low-cost competition, possibly produced to different standards.”

Productivity This year will also see direct payments start to be phased out. Payments to farmers will be halved by 2024 and gone altogether by the end of 2027. This means some farmers will have to increase their productivity to stay in business. Recouping any lost money will take time and effort, said Mr King. “There will be less support as of right – and land managers will be expected to deliver some-

thing to society in return for the funds they receive.” This should not necessarily be something to be feared. There were still great opportunities to improve financial performance in all sectors of the farming industry, said Mr King. “Without the distorting effects of direct support, there can be a greater focus on the areas of activity on farm that actually make a profit. Over time, a stronger, more resilient industry should be able to meet many of the challenges that lie ahead.” Tenant Farmers Association chairman Mark Coulman said 2021 would be a year for big decisions. Individual farmers needed to decide if the future was one within which they could see their businesses thrive. “There has been a significant amount of interest in the Basic Payment Scheme lump sum exit proposals, particularly among farm tenants who are towards

the end of farming careers and without clear routes for the succession of those businesses. “Further details about how that scheme will run should be available in the early part of the year and I fully expect a significant number of individuals to see that as a viable option to take when it becomes available in 2022.”

The future will see a stronger, more resilient industry, says Richard King

Support available as loneliness and anxiety rise

ural insurer NFU Mutual has launched a winter campaign to support people who are finding things difficult. Coronavirus lockdown measures are taking their toll on the mental health of communities across the UK, according to NFU Mutual research. More people are feeling stressed (+7%), anxious (+3%) and lonely (+2%) than six months ago. The NFU Mutual Charitable Trust donated over £1m to 20 UK charities in 2020. Increased donations were made possible by an additional pledge of £750,000 to help

4 ANGLIA FARMER • JANUARY 2021

support organisations through the coronavirus crisis. The insurer is working with the Samaritans to share the charity’s tools and resources. The charity’s Real People, Real Stories campaign aims to reach people most at risk – particularly men aged 20-59 – in the agricultural industries. NFU Mutual head of reputation Jo Lumani said: “We‘re proud to be championing the Samaritans as they work to support those facing isolation. The emotional and practical support offered around the clock is vital for all our communities.”

The Samaritans currently responds to a call for help every seven seconds. The charity is open day and night, 365 days a year, and provides support through a listening service – including by phone, email and letter. In the six months since March 2020, volunteers have provided emotional support more than 1.2m times. Some 1-in-5 calls for help are about coronavirus, with volunteers suggesting it is mentioned in almost all calls. Anyone can contact the Samaritans free on 116 123. This number won’t show up on your phone bill. You can also visit www. samaritans.org.

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Now, for tomorrow

News

Suspected hare coursers arrested in Suffolk

wo groups of suspected trespassing hare coursers causing criminal damage to farmland and property have been arrested in Suffolk. Police were called to reports of a group of six people with dogs and two vehicles on 8 December. The group were trespassing in pursuit of game in a field near to Lyle Close, Elmswell, near Stowmarket. A number of police units were immediately sent to the area, supported by the National Police Air Service helicopter. Six adults and one child were detained. Two vehicles – a Subaru Impreza and a Honda CRV – were both seized. Earlier, police arrested four men on suspicion of hare coursing and causing criminal damage in Lavenham. A group of men in a vehicle were seen acting suspiciously with dogs on farmland and agricultural land was damaged by a vehicle. Two 18-year-olds, a 20-year-old and a 21-year-old, all from the Essex area, were arrested. The four men were taken to Bury St Edmunds police investigation centre, questioned and subsequently released under investigation pending further enquiries.

New chair for Red Tractor assurance scheme

hristine Tacon (right) has been appointed chair of Assured Food Standards – the company which operates the Red Tractor farm assurance scheme. The former Groceries Code Adjudicator replaces Dame Lucy Neville-Rolfe, who announced she was standing down last year after opposing measures designed to prevent farmers from being undermined by substandard food imports. Ms Tacon joins Red Tractor with decades of experience as a leader and advocate for the British food and farming industry and with an extensive background in change management, regulation and the food chain. She ran the Co-operative Group’s farming business – the largest of its kind in the UK – for more than a decade. In 2004, she was awarded a CBE for services to agriculture and she is a director of the £250m farm input purchasing AF Group.

Until October 2020, Ms Tacon was a responsible for overseeing the implementation of the Groceries Supply Code of Practice by large grocery retailers. Her job was to ensure big supermarkets deal fairly with their direct farm suppliers. Ms Tacon said: “With uncertainty on standards of food imported into the UK post Brexit, this is a great time to be working on British standards and ensuring they are fit for purpose for all its stakeholders.”

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Arable Wheat area rebounds as oilseed rape continues to decline • Better autumn affects plantings • Growers opt for less risky crops • Concerns remain over flea beetle

ilseed rape plantings have fallen to their lowest for almost 35 years, reveals the latest Early Bird sowing survey by the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board. At 318,000ha, the UK oilseed rape area is at its lowest since 1986 – a decline accelerated by tough weather and crop losses last year, as growers show caution about its economic viability and pest prevalence. The survey also confirms a resurgence in winter wheat plantings – helped by better autumn conditions. The estimated wheat area stands at 1.815m hectares, up 28.3% on last year but in line with the five-year average of 1.802m hectares (2015-19).

Better drilling AHDB analyst Anthony Speight said there had been a significant increase in the overall winter cereal area. “Drilling

8 ANGLIA FARMER • JANUARY 2021

“

Drilling has gone significantly better than last season

has reportedly gone significantly better than last year, when many growers struggled to get crops in the ground due to wet conditions. “The exception is oilseed rape which continues to decrease, with many growers challenged by the threat of cabbage stem flea beetle, but this has led to some more niche crops gaining ground.” Winter barley has also seen an increase in intended area after poor weather in late 2019 led to a widespread switch to spring cropping. This season, an estimated 394,000 ha is intended for winter barley, up 24% year on year.

Spring barley Equally, the area intended for spring barley has fallen by 30% on last year to 767,000ha. Despite the decline, this area still remains slightly above the five-year average of 711,000ha. The drop in rape has resulted in a growth in other break crops, with oats continuing to increase by 3.6%. Other cereals, such as rye, triticale and

mixed grains, are seen to be increasing by 40.8% and pulses by 7%. The AHDB Early Bird Survey is carried out each autumn. It is undertaken by the Andersons Centre, with the help of the Association of Independent Crop Consultants (AICC) and other agronomists.

Cropping intentions This year’s survey covers 615,000ha. It represents some 13% of the UK area for the crops surveyed. Data was collected for provisional results up until 25 November 2020 and will be finalised later. The survey is used to estimate the cropping intentions of UK farmers. A more detailed regional update is due to be calculated following Defra’s release of its final UK production estimates in December. In previous years, the survey has proved to be an accurate forecast of actual harvested areas. However, the final harvested area and yields depend on weather conditions throughout the season.

Fewer growers are drilling oilseed rape, confirms the survey

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Arable

Ballot confirmed on potato board future

he Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board has formally announced a ballot on the continuation of the statutory potato levy. It will go ahead next month. The yes-or-no vote on the future of AHDB Potatoes and the work it delivers on behalf of potato growers and buyers will take place from mid-February 2021 for four weeks. It will follow a separate ballot on the statutory levy for horticulture. The potato vote comes after 8.5% of potato levy payers – equivalent to 176 potato growing or buying businesses – submitted valid requests for a ballot. Under statute, 5% of levy payers are needed to request a ballot for it to proceed. The AHDB will contact potato growers and buyers in the coming weeks to ensure they are aware of the ballot. Each potato growing or buying business who has paid levy in the 12 months up to the ballot closing is entitled to one vote. All potatoes levy payers are invited make their vote count and the AHDB

is holding a series of virtual ‘town hall’ meetings in January and February during which it will put its case for the levy body to continue. The AHDB will highlight its delivery record and its new strategy for the potato sector. It is also encouraging levy payers to explore a new area of the AHDB website to find out what they get for their levy at ahdb.org. uk/potato-levy.

AHDB chairman Nicholas Saphir urged all potato growers and associated businesses to talk to us about the AHDB about its work and future plans – either through the town hall meetings or one-to-one with regional knowledge exchange managers. “We are in no way underestimating the huge variation in sentiment towards AHDB but we also want our levy payers to make an informed decision about our continued existence and what they would lose if the levy was stopped.” The ballot will be run by an independent company called UK Engage. Once complete, the results of the ballot will be submitted to the farm ministers in England, Wales and Scotland, who will decide on the future of the statutory potato levy.

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Arable

First ever sugar beet pricing platform launched • Growers can lock into sugar prices • Benefits across the UK supply chain • Project to be rolled out if successful

rowers can now manage and fix their own sugar beet prices following the launch of the first ever sugar beet pricing platform. The pricing platform enables growers to take advantage of new futures-based contracts agreed between NFU Sugar and British Sugar in its latest contract offer. It has been developed by supply chain service company Czarnikow. Offered via Czarnikow’s client platform, Czapp, the platform will initially be tested by a pilot group of growers as part of a year-long pilot programme. The intention is then to roll it out more widely across sugar beet contracts. The pilot will allow growers and British Sugar to price beet independently of each other for the first time ever. This means growers can lock in prices when it is attractive to them and British Sugar will only have to pay the price that they have independently set. NFU Sugar board chairman Michael Sly said: “This is a hugely exciting project and something we have been working hard on for a number of years, in response to calls from growers for more control over their sugar beet price.” Growers will be able to see the

realtime value of the sugar they are growing in their crop for the first time ever. They will then be able to make independent pricing decisions based on that pricing data. Mr Sly said: “This can be a winwin for the industry. It will give growers flexibility to lock in attractive prices at a time to suit them and take the opportunity and risk the market offers them into their own hands.”

Direct control Czarnikow director Jonathan Williams said the pricing platform had taken a lot of creative

thinking from NFU Sugar and British Sugar. Growers and the processor would both benefit by taking direct control of their own price management. “Independent pricing is here to stay, and it’s only going to increase in volume and sophistication in future years,” said Mr Williams. British Sugar agriculture director Peter Watson said the processor had recognised the desire in some growers to take more risk and price their own crop. The new contract agreed with NFU Sugar would allow this to happen. “This year’s pilot scheme is truly innovative for the sugar beet sector with growers able to take positions on the sugar market for a proportion of their crop, much in the same way as other cereals crops. An exciting opportunity for all in the future.”

Farmers will have more control over beet prices, says Michael Sly

NFU denies secret lobbying on neonicotinoids The NFU has rejected claims that it secretly lobbied the government for growers to use banned pesticides on sugar beet. Environmental campaigner George Monbiot accused NFU Sugar of campaigning “behind closed doors” after the union asked growers to not to publicise a letter written to Defra secretary George Eustice. The letter – in support of an application for farmers to use neonicotinoid treated seed – highlighted the problems experienced by growers who have seen crops devastated by virus yellows disease. NFU Sugar chairman Michael Sly said the

reason that the letter was not forwarded or circulated more widely was because the specific nature of the application meant it only applied to sugar beet growers. Mr Sly said there were currently no other effective protections against virus yellows, which threatened the viability of home-grown sugar. He added: “The application was not made in secret, in fact it was reported on in the media.” Other countries had granted permission for farmers to use neonicotinoids. “The seed treatment would only be used if and when the threat of virus yellows disease in 2021 is independently judged to meet the scientific threshold for action.”

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Arable

Fieldwork looks towards spring this month weeds become too large so look out for suitable weather windows to get them on as soon as is practical. Better spray opportunities may arrive later but this usually means weeds are bigger and harder to control.

IN THE FIELD

Growers should keep a watching brief on crops – but avoid rushing in, says Richard Overthrow

anuary can still hold opportunities for drilling if required – either late winter crops or early spring varieties. If you find yourself eager to plant early spring crops, remember this will not necessarily lead to better crops, it is purely a logistical measure. Next month is plenty early enough to be seriously thinking about spring crop drilling. With last autumn being not too dissimilar to the previous one, many winter cereal crops will have been sown but not treated with pre-emergence herbicides, due to limited opportunities. Many growers will therefore be relying on contact products such as Broadway Star, or for blackgrass Hamlet or Atlantis. These should be applied sooner rather than later before target

Target weeds If the target weeds are known, spring germinators such as meadow brome however, some delay may be necessary to allow the weed population to appear. Reports of mildew and yellow rust in wheat were common last month. If insufficient cold weather has occurred, these diseases will still be around. If present, they need watching though should be treated only if absolutely necessary – if the life of the crop is threatened. Hopefully we can address these infections with a

T0 fungicide, although this is a long way off. In some areas winter wheat sowing continued into December so once again there will be a number of late developing or backward crops that will need careful management. But although late sown and backward cereal crops will need fairly prompt first nitrogen applications in order to discourage tiller loss, they won’t respond to anything applied this month. It is unlikely that ground conditions will allow top dressing anyway, but any nitrogen applied so far ahead of the start of spring growth will be wasted.

Oilseed rape Many oilseed rape crops have established and grown well so should be examined to determine canopy size, with a view to

Mildew now should be treated with a T0 fungicide later

Timely tips • Start thinking about drilling spring crops • Backward crops need careful management • Apply contact sprays before weeds get too large • Be aware of wheat mildew and rust • Look for light leaf spot on rape future fertiliser management. If still large and three-dimensional as the first nitrogen timing approaches, the total nitrogen applied should be reduced from the usual 200-plus kg/ha nitrogen. Some crops will have no such concerns, however, with canopies that are plenty small enough. There may also still be outstanding applications of propyzamide or carbetamide to be applied to oilseed rape. If there are any treatments still to go on, cut-off for Kerb (and Astrokerb) is the end of January, and for Crawler the end of February. Rape crops may still show fresh infections of phoma, however any infections developing now are unlikely to affect yield as there won’t be sufficient time to form stem cankers. Any mild and wet periods from now on may encourage light leaf spot however, so further treatment for this, at or even before stem extension, cannot be ruled out – even if autumn treatment was applied. › Richard Overthrow is a regional agronomist with NIAB TAG, the UK’s largest independent agronomy organisation with several research centres in East Anglia. For more details, call 01223 342495.

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Arable • Recommended List 2021

Revised disease ratings for recommended list varieties • Wheat rust ratings now weighted • 21 cereal varieties are added to list • Better resistance and higher yields

ajor changes to wheat rust disease-resistance ratings are included in the latest Recommended List for cereals and oilseeds. Published by the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board, the 2021/22 Recommended List also sees the introduction of new disease ratings for winter rye (brown rust) and winter triticale (yellow rust). AHDB list manager Paul Gosling said the latest list offered a rich mixture of broad-appeal and niche varieties – serving as a foundation for integrated pest management (IPM) and brings opportunities for a wide range of markets.

More sensitive “Wheat brown rust and yellow rust ratings are now weighted, so the most recent years’ results have the largest influence on the rating. This makes

“

Ratings are now more sensitive to changes in rust populations

the rating more sensitive to changes in rust populations, while still building on a valuable three-year data set.” For wheat yellow rust and spring oat mildew, the AHDB has also changed the way it calculates disease ratings, relative to our susceptible and resistant variety fixed points, said Mr Gosling. “This reset means, compared with the previous edition, the same amount of disease will result in a lower rating score,” he explained. “For rust, some varieties have dropped by as much as three rating points. We stress this is largely due to the way we calculate the ratings, rather than an indication of a major shift in rust races in 2020.”

New additions The latest recommended list sees the addition of 21 varieties, with 25 varieties removed. Five new Group 3 biscuit winter wheats had been added, some with potential for distilling and export. Two new hard Group 4s provide extra options for growers. The Group 4 varieties include a specific recommendation for resistance to Barley yellow dwarf virus (BYDV) to

the RL for the first time. A new soft Group 4 variety with excellent distilling quality also features for the north region. Five new feed varieties feature on the list for winter barley. Three new tworow varieties offer improved yield, as well as good agronomics and quality. Two new six-row varieties offer better disease resistance and untreated yields.

Yield increases The two new spring barley varieties bring welcome advances. One is under test for brewing and potentially offers large yield increases over the current market leaders. The other, a feed barley, delivers strong yield and good overall agronomics. For the first time, the winter oilseed rape list includes pod-shatter resistance data. The five new varieties, all hybrids, bring modest improvements in yield and disease resistance, compared with established varieties. Although most oilseed rape recommendations are for the East/West region, a newly listed variety offers particularly strong yields for the North region. For variety details, see page 18. Early Yellow Rust

JANUARY 2021 • ANGLIA FARMER 17

Arable • Recommended List 2021

Latest varieties ‘meet complex agronomic challenges’ The latest Recommended Lists aim to help growers meet the complex agronomic challenges they face in 2021/22 – and beyond, says the AHDB. WINTER WHEAT New Group 3 biscuit wheat LG Prince combines group-leading UK treated yield (103% of control varieties), with good disease resistance, though the lower specific weight of 74.8 kg/hl may not suit everyone. Stablemate from Limagrain, LG Illuminate, is just behind on UK treated yield (102%) and offers better specific weight, at 76.6 kg/hl, and a good disease package. Its earlier maturity (+1), good northern yield and distilling potential may attract northern growers. LG Quasar offers a similar package to LG Illuminate, with slightly lower quality, while LG Astronomer, though a little behind on yield, has a very good disease-resistance package, including a septoria tritici rating of 7.4, combined with a specific weight of 77.8 kg/hl. However, a mildew rating of 4 and North yield of 98% may limit its appeal. The last of the new biscuit wheats is Merit from Elsoms – recommended for the East. Its yield in the East is especially good and a Hagberg Falling Number of 255 and specific weight of 76.5 kg/hl will prove attractive. Its

disease-resistance package is only let down by a mildew rating of 3. All new soft Group 3s have resistance to orange wheat blossom midge. The other new winter wheats also have interesting stories. They include KWS Cranium (hard Group 4), which has good UK treated yield (104%), a reasonable disease-resistance package and quality, with a Hagberg Falling Number of 277 and specific weight of 75.4kg/hl. But it is its late-sown yield (sown after 1 November) of 108% of controls that stands out. Although based on a more limited data set, it will pique the interest of many growers, especially those with one eye on blackgrass control. The other new hard Group 4 feed wheat is RAGT Wolverine – first to be awarded the new specialist BYDV-resistant category. But its yield is a little behind the leading feed varieties, and ratings for septoria (5.3) and yellow rust (5) may put off some growers. The final new winter wheat is the soft Group 4 variety Swallow, with recommendation for the North region.

Limited data reveals it has a relatively early and good yield, which will appeal to northern growers. But its main talking point is that it has been rated good for distilling, with consistent performance over the last three years – comfortably outperforming all other varieties in 2020 distilling tests.

Under high BYDV pressure in the Lincs trial RGT Wolverine (left) had significantly fewer symptoms compared with the control varieties

WINTER OILSEED RAPE The five new winter oilseed rape varieties are all hybrids. With UK recommendation, LG Aviron equals the top-yielding variety in the East/West region at 109% of control gross output. Aviron also has a good northern yield at 105%, making it the second-highest yielding variety in the North. It also features good disease resistance, including to Turnip yellows virus (TuYV), in addition to pod-shatter resistance. LG Antigua is recommended for the East/West region and equals the East/ West yield of LG Aviron (109%). It also has good disease resistance (including TuYV) and pod-shatter resistance. Also recommended for the East/ West region, DK Expectation, from Bayer, has a gross output of 107%. Its good disease package includes a re18 ANGLIA FARMER • JANUARY 2021

sistance rating of 8 for stem canker, as well as TuYV resistance and pod-shatter resistance. A further East/West recommendation is Respect, from LS Plant Breeding, with a gross output of 106% and a stem canker resistance score of 8. However, it lacks pod-shatter and TuYV resistance. The final addition is herbicide-tolerant variety DK Imprint CL, from Bayer, with UK recommendation. It has an East/West gross output of 95% and North gross output of 91%. Once again, stem canker resistance is good (rating of 8) and it features pod-shatter resistance. The variety has a light leaf spot rating of 6 but does not have TuYV resistance. Yellowing as a result of TuYV

Continued on p20

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Arable • Recommended List 2021 SPRING BARLEY The only new spring barley variety on test for brewing, Skyway from Agrii, offers a significant yield improvement over the market leaders, with the UK treated yield of 106% of controls, with a similar yield in the East and 108% in the West. Specific weight is very good at 68.7 kg/hl. Although data is limited, good disease resistance is suggested by its untreated yield of 96%. As with all malting varieties, the success of Skyway will depend on its commercial malting qualities. Farmers should speak to merchants before drilling to help establish market potential. The single sfeed variety added is Cadiz from Senova, with recommendation for the East and West regions – with treated yields of 105% and 106%, respectively (based on limited data). Its untreated yield of 94% suggests good disease resistance. Specific weight is good at 67.4 kg/hl.

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WINTER BARLEY Three new two-row feed barley varieties all sport UK treated yields of 106% of controls. KWS Tardis has a specific weight of 69.1 kg/hl, with a good disease package and untreated yield. Bolton, from Elsoms Ackermann, also has a good specific weight (68.6 kg/hl) and disease package. Bordeaux, from Senova,

has a very good specific weight of 69.9 kg/ hl. Although it comes with a reasonable disease package, a disease rating of 4 for rhynchosporium and net blotch might deter growers in wetter regions. Two new six-row hybrid feed varieties from Syngenta show improved disease resistance and good yields. SY Kingston has

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Arable • Recommended List 2021

Phoma resistant winter rape makes list debut

igh yielding winter oilseed rape Respect – with a new Phoma resistance gene – has been added to the 2021/22 Recommended List. Bred by LSPB, Respect is added to the list alongside clubroot resistant Crome and Croozer; Resort, the company’s HEAR (high erucic acid) variety; and high yielding spring wheat WPB Escape. LSPB managing director Chris Guest said: “Respect is newly-added to the list and is a high-yielding hybrid. Significantly, it is the first AHDB recommended variety to feature a new major Phoma resistance gene called RLmS. “The new RL also list highlights the continuing important place for growers occupied by our clubroot resistant varieties Crome and Croozer – with a very high Phoma resistance rating (8) as an additional benefit.” Resort is the only HEAR variety on the list and could offer con-

siderable premiums over conventional double low varieties. WPB Escape, bred by Wiersum Plant Breeding with LSPB as the UK

programmes and trials alongside our winter wheat breeding programme with our two international partners,” said Mr Guest.

Breeder LSPB appoints commercial assistant Plant breeder LSPB has appointed Harper Adams graduate Michael Shuldham (right) as commercial assistant alongside managing director Chris Guest. Mr Shuldham worked in the seed department at Gleadell Agriculture during his placement year before graduating with an agribusiness degree in 2018. His new role is to support and expand LSPB’s commercial operation. Mr Guest said he would be a valuable asset to LSPB, as the company enters a new era with new varieties of pulses and oilseed rape, the addition of spring wheat and an upcoming winter wheat breeding programme. “I look forward to introducing him our customer base, as we build on our success and enter an exciting new time for UK agriculture as LSPB continues to look to deliver innovative products to UK farmers through our merchant and seed-selling customers.”

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New oilseed rape boasts standout performance

n enviable combination of performance and yield-protection are among the attributes of DK Expectation – a newcomer to the oilseed rape recommended list for 2021/22. An official gross output rating of 107.0% puts the variety in second place on the East-West list and fourth place overall when UK-wide varieties are included – with no significant performance difference from the top-placed variety on either list. Breeder Dekalb says DK Expectation brings the best disease resistance ratings of any variety – an 8 for phoma, 7 for light leaf spot and TuYV resistance. It also has pod shatter resistance to minimise summer and harvesting seed losses. It is the first time the list has highlighted the pod shatter resistance trait pioneered by Deka-

lb, says Dekalb breeder Matthew Clarke. DK Expectation also boasts rapid autumn development as well as vigorous establishment. Individual traits are useful in themselves, but Mr Clarke says their real value comes when they are stacked together to provide the greatest resilience to seasonal pressures, making varieties more consistent in delivering on their output potential.

All-round strength “All-round agronomic strength is something we have always insisted upon in our breeding, so it’s good to see it now being given much greater recognition alongside gross output in the recommended list process.” From the same breeding stable, DK Imprint CL joins the new list as the only Clearfield variety with a full UK recommenda-

Pod shatter resistance is a key attribute of Dekalb varieties

tion. Mr Clarke says this is step up from existing East-West-only varieties in its regional gross output and agronomic package. With phoma (8) and light leaf spot (6) resistance ratings, DK Imprint CL also has pod shatter resistance. Mr Clarke says this reduces the pressure on subsequent volunteer control as well as

improving harvest security and flexibility. Dekalb has four strong candidates for recommendation in 2022/23. They include TuYV-resistant DK Extremus, which is already valued by growers for being an early spring developer; and the first Clearfield HOLL, V382CL.

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Arable • Recommended List 2021

New Elsoms varieties pass tough 2020 test with flying colours • Winter wheats overcome challenges • Barley said to perform impressively • Varieties in pipeline look promising

hree cereal varieties from Elsoms Seeds performed well during a challenging 2020 season: winter wheats Astound and Merit; and winter barley Bolton. Putting both Astound and Bolton through their paces this year were independent agronomists Will Foster of Holmewood Arable and David Coppack of Wheatlands Agronomy. Both worked closely with farmer Peter Hewson. He trialled both varieties during a season which saw a very wet autumn and winter followed by an extremely wet spring at Wold Newton Farm, near Market Rasen, Lincolnshire. Astound and Bolton showed excellent early vigour and competitiveness in conditions that ruled out the application of nitrogen fertiliser and pre-emergence herbicides during the crop’s critical early growth phases. Some 33ha of Bolton were drilled on 23 October but challenging conditions meant Mr Foster was unable to get anything onto the crop until 15 March when he applied an initial dose of nitrogen, phosphate and potash. Despite this, Bolton coped very well in the heavy cold soil conditions and competed well. Two plant growth regulators (PGRs) were applied in mid-April

and early May respectively to stop the crop necking but overall there were few other concerns. “During the extremely dry spring and early summer that followed, we went ‘little and often’ with the nitrogen up to a total of 160kg/ha to get the crop through and were rewarded with a very clean crop with no lodging,” says Mr Coppack.

Impressive results Bolton yielded just under 9t/ha – making it Mr Foster’s highest yielding winter barley. Astound, which was drilled on 31 January on the farm’s heavy Wold clay, also yielded impressive results having coped well in the difficult conditions. “It’s fair to say that 2020 was an incredibly challenging season,” says Mr Coppack. “We applied 1 PGR in April but this was more about giving the crop a physiological boost to encourage rooting and tillering, not straw shortening. It wasn’t a high-pressure disease year so fungicides were limited to a basic package. Despite the unprecedented dry spell, Astound showed very few signs of stress. Final yield was excellent in view of the extreme weather with a high quality, bold grain. In Suffolk, Beccles farmer Robert

Wright grew 15ha of Merit for harvest 2020 and has recently drilled a further 40ha for this season. He was also able to report back positively after compiling a full year of data on the new winter wheat. “The 2019/2020 season was particularly impressive with Merit displaying excellent early vigour in very testing conditions when some headlands were either waterlogged and/or compacted,” says Mr Wright. The variety showed no susceptibility to either rust or septoria. Yields were comparable to Skyscraper, says Mr Wright. “I’ve gone with it again on an increased area. Merit looks to be a step forward amongst the current Group 3s.”

Will Foster trialled winter wheat Astound and winter barley Bolton

‘Go-to option for low-input wheat’ Winter wheat Astound is described as a “goto option” for growers looking for a straightforward, low input, easy-to-grow variety that produces stiff straw for livestock. “Both Merit and Bolton fully deserve their positions on the new recommended list and, in Astound, I believe we have the perfect mixed farm system variety” says Elsoms Seeds vining pea and combinable crop manager George Goodwin (right). “It is flexible on drilling dates, yielded 102% of controls in recent trials and displayed excellent standing ability and lodging resistance in both treated and untreated situations.” Overall disease scores for Astound were 6.8 for septoria, 7 for mildew and 8 for yellow rust. With a consistent and attractive pro-

file, Mr Goodwin says it should provide stern competition to both Gravity and Graham. The addition of Nabim wheat Merit should strengthen Elsoms’ position in the Group 3 biscuit wheat market alongside Elicit. It has good septoria resistance (6.6) and is expected to be fully approved for both UK distilling and export in 2021. “Merit has a very robust disease package and in recent trials, when late sown, it was 105% of controls,” says Mr Goodwin. “It’s certainly the Group

3 that’s most likely to offer growers the widest range of marketing options next year.” Also on the recommended list is new Winter barley Bolton – one of the first varieties to come through the Elsoms Ackermann breeding program aimed at providing the UK market with greater genetic diversity. Bolton achieved consistent yields of 105-106% of controls across all its regional trials. Balancing high yields with good disease resistance, it is Barley Yellow Mosaic Virus (BYMV) resistant and is suitable for heavy and light land. “Following our recent success with Jordan the launch of Bolton confirms that the future Elsoms Ackermann barley pipeline looks strong,” says Mr Goodwin.

JANUARY 2021 • ANGLIA FARMER 25

Arable • Recommended List 2021

New hybrid barleys join latest Recommended List

wo high-yielding hybrid winter feed barley varieties from breeder Syngenta have been added to the latest AHDB Recommended List. The first hybrid barley is SY Thunderbolt. With a UK treated yield of 107% compared to the control varieties on the 2021/22 list, it has excellent grain quality with a specific weight of 69.6kg/hl. “Thunderbolt shares similar attributes to the current popular hybrid barley SY Kingsbarn,” says Syngenta seeds technical manager Paul Roche. “It has also delivered strong yield performance in all regions and has particularly good mildew resistance.” SY Thunderbolt could be of particular interest on heavy soil, where trials indicate it has a 111% yield of control. Early-maturing, it is one of only four varieties on the winter barley RL with a -1 score – earlier than two-row feed varieties on the list and especially useful to spread harvest workload.

Newly-recommended hybrid winter feed barley SY Thunderbolt

Early maturity also helps growers get ground prepared for following crops or to establish winter oilseed rape. It also allows longer windows for stale seedbeds against grass weeds. With strong all-round disease resistance, Thunderbolt is useful against barley yellow mosaic virus and shows a good response to plant growth regulator application for managing straw height.

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The second hybrid winter feed barley is SY Kingston. Another high-yielding, high specific weight variety, it has a UK treated yield of 107% and a specific weight of 69.7kg/hl, performed particularly well on lighter or medium soils. “SY Kingston is also early-ripening,” says Mr Roche. “It has also given excellent year-to-year yield consistency, has a high untreated

yield, and offers a good all-round disease resistance profile, including resistance to barley yellow mosaic virus. “As more new hybrid barleys come on to the market like these, growers have an expanded choice to suit different growing situations – for example lighter land or heavier land, different regions, and also where an early harvest is desirable.”

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Spring crop management Roadshows give low-down on spring pulse options • Four events cover all crop aspects • Follows launch of descriptive list • Better meets grower requirements

rowers looking to sow pulses this spring are invited to take part in a series of seminars this month – to learn more about optimising the crop in the rotation. Hosted by the Processors and Growers Research Organisation (PGRO) and Syngenta, the four Pulse Roadshow events are taking place online due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. The four webinars will cover four distinct topics. They include different varieties and the market; pest management and IPM strategies for pulses; disease control; and weed control in field beans (see timetable, below). Speakers include technical experts and researchers from the PGRO and

The events will cover technical aspects of growing pulses, says Roger Vickers

Syngenta, as well as Frontier pulse manager Andy Bury. It follows the online launch of the PGRO’s descriptive list of varieties last autumn. The new list format replaces the recommended list which had been in existence for more than 35 years, publishing data on how prominent and novel pulse seeds have performed in independent trials.

Technical insight PGRO chief executive Roger Vickers said the new format replaced a yield-focused system. It provided growers with valuable independent data which encouraged breeding innovation and market development. “As the role of pulses in rotations has grown and evolved, we feel a descriptive list is much more in line with modern grower requirements and will enable us to showcase a wider range of varieties to suit different systems.” A challenging season meant lower

pulse yields during harvest 2020. But Mr Vickers said he was pleased that the roadshows were going ahead in 2021 and the events would help growers get the best from their crops. He added: “I’m keen to harness digital platforms to continue to bring growers together and offer knowledge and insight on some of the more technical aspects of growing peas and beans successfully. “While we can’t meet in person and enjoy a social element to the roadshows, the webinar format gives us new opportunities to reach more growers who can join us from their farms or workplace and I am looking forward to a great turnout this year.” Syngenta’s Rebecca Stilton said: “Pulse growers will have some new crop protection options for next season. The PGRO and Syngenta roadshows are the ideal way for growers and agronomists to keep up to date with all the latest developments.”

WEBINAR TIMETABLE 18 January: Andy Bury from Frontier Agriculture and PGRO principal technical officer Stephen Belcher will discuss the market for pulses and varieties for the market. Ref: CP00912010. 19 January: Pest management and IPM strategies for pulses with Dr Max Newbert from Syngenta and Dr Becky Howard from the PGRO. Ref: CP00912011. 20 January: Syngenta technical manager Michael Tait and PGRO plant pathjologist Dr Lea Herold will talk about disease control in field beans. Ref: CP00912012. 21 January: Weed control options in peas and beans with PGRO principal technical officer Jim Scrimshaw. CP009012013. Meetings start at 9am on Zoom on the date indicated. BASIS and NRoSo points will be available for attending – with details to follow after the meetings takes place. Register at www.syngenta.co.uk/events. Alternatively, email syn.events@syngenta.com with the subject line: ‘PGRO/SYN 2021’ and the ‘CP’ event reference number or call 0800 652 4216.

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Spring crop management

Online pesticide guide includes comparison tool

host of new features are included in the latest Online UK Pesticide Guide published by the British Crop Production Council. The online version of the UK Pesticide Guide – known as the ‘Green Book’ – includes an easy-to-use product search and comparison tool. It details all pesticides, plant growth regulators and adjuvants that can be legally used in the UK. The resource is used throughout the agriculture, horticulture, forestry, amenity and pest control sectors. It is an essential reference manual for sprayer operators, farmers, park and green-keepers, advisors, agronomists and industry professionals. BCPC general manager Julian Westaway said: “Having access to the latest pesticide information is vital for all those involved in their use and application. This is the one-stop database for all pesticide products approved in the UK.

“The online version has undergone modifications to its look and feel as well as improved functionality to support your crop protection decisions, giving users access to in-depth product data, clearly presented for easy reference.” The product comparison tool allows users to tailor their search by multiple attributes, which can be filtered and sorted. This makes it particularly useful when buying pesticides, allowing comparison between similar products. Users can to select products with simpler buffer zone requirements to reduce the complexity of recent pesticide regulations and aid compliance. It is also useful for planning pesticide use, accessing product information and safety data sheets. The 2021 UK Pesticide Guide print version, now in its 34th edition, goes on sale in January 2021, and includes a crop-pest index, pesticide profiles, suppliers and distributor contact information, and key information on pesticide

use and legislation. The new platform is optimised for PC and tablet use and regularly updated. An annual subscription to the Online UK Pesticide Guide costs £70+VAT. It is available at www.ukpesticideguide.co.uk. The print version is available for £59.50 + P&P, with 50% discount for users with an online subscription. Up to three BASIS points and two NRoSO points are available depending on the purchase option.

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Spring crop management

LG Raptor ‘could outyield market leader’ by next season

pring bean LG Raptor continues to produce outstanding yields and has moved to a P2 rating at 105% over control on the latest PGRO descriptive list. “Yield is the most important factor for spring beans, and is a major focus in our breeding programme,” says Limagrain UK pulse breeder Will Pillinger. Raptor showed excellent uniformity last season which translated into a uniform sample, he added. “The success of this approach can be seen as LG Raptor moves closer to recommendation offering extremely high yield potential that could see it out-yielding the market leader by next season,” says Mr Pillinger. But high yields need to be backed up by solid agronomics and traits. Mr Pillinger says Raptor achieves this, being fairly early to mature. It also stands

well and offers a good disease package including rust. This combination of traits makes it an enticing variety. LG Raptor is suitable for human consumption, fish feed and animal protein markets so offers a range of different opportunities for growers in 2021/22. Tom Barker, pulses product manager for Limagrain UK, sums the variety up. LG Raptor’s consistent yields and disease resistance package mean it will be taking a big bite into the spring bean acreage, he says. Large blue pea LG Aviator has also moved to a P2 rating with a yield rating of 103% over control. It is one of only three varieties listed to offer resistance to powdery mildew – and is rated 7 when it comes to tolerance to downy mildew. For each node that LG Aviator pro-

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duces, there are three pods. With more pods at the top of the plant rather than spread through the plant, it makes for more even maturity with less competition for light – helping to build yield. Agronomically there is much to like about the variety, says Mr Pillinger. “It’s early, and has good ratings for standing ability and straw length (6) – making it one of the best agronomic packages of any other provisionally rated varieties.”

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Spring crop management

Barley contract offers added security for 2021 • A guaranteed minimum premium • Well-suited to heavier land farms • Extra security for spring cropping

n additional guaranteed minimum premium is being provided for the first time ever this season by the Explorer spring barley contract for British Budweiser. Available through Viterra UK, the premium is on top of a 1.75-2.05% nitrogen specification well-suited to the heavier land the variety prefers and a guaranteed local market unaffected by export concerns in a post-EU world. Lee Robinson, head of seed for Agrii, says Explorer’s speed of growth, grass weed competitiveness and early mads.qxp_Layout 16/05/2019 09:06 Page 16 turity 1also helps make contract-growing for Budweiser a valuable all-round risk management tool. “With the winter wheat area re-

“

We foresee improved prospects for UK growers

bounding strongly from last season and more ‘normal’ spring cereal plantings, we expect feed barley prices to be much closer to wheat values for Harvest 2021,” he says. “We also foresee malting premiums maintaining their recent firmness to offer improved prospects for UK growers.”

Commitment After the disappointing barley markets of the past two years, Mr Robinson says Agrii and Viterra feel it is only right to underline their commitment to Explorer growers with the additional assurance of a guaranteed minimum premium over feed barley. Uptake of Explorer growing since the launch of the first contract in 2015 means Budweiser has been able to progressively replace all its previously-imported supplies for British brewing with home-grown barley. Sourcing 100% of its barley from

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Spring crop management

New agronomy service for regenerative agriculture

new agronomy service has launched for farmers adopting regenerative agriculture techniques. The Groundswell Agronomy and Consultancy service aims to provide all sectors of agriculture with the solutions they need to maintain and improve farm business profitability in the face of a gradual reduction in basic payments. It is the brainchild of Groundswell show and conference co-founder John Cherry and his agronomist Richard Harding. Regenerative agriculture is a system with three key principles at its core, permanent soil cover, diverse cover crops and direct drilling. Mr Cherry said the service would reimagine the way agronomy is practiced, help re-introduce livestock enterprises in innovative ways, focus on “stacking” farm enterprises to maximise profitability and seek to move towards a circular economy.

“The service is available to any farmers interested in investigating anything from a complete system rethink or just one technique of conservation or regenerative agriculture. It can be tailored to provide as much, or as little, ongoing support as required.” Mr Cherry, of Lannock Manor Farm, Hertfordshire, added: “Farmers often talk of feeling isolated when surrounded by peers who may or may not be supportive of a change to the radically different farming system from the one they are used to. “Groundswell Agronomy advisers will provide the advice needed to ensure your rural business is financially resilient and agronomically sustainable whatever your farming system; arable, mixed farming, horticulture or mainly livestock.” The service will include farmer-led collaborative research with each Groundswell agronomist acting as a facilitator of this work, combined with

financial and physical benchmarking of small regional farmer groups. Regenerative agriculture required a long term approach and research would drive innovation, said Mr Harding. “The core underlying value of the service is independent advice and knowledge transfer through industry-wide collaboration.”

John Cherry: Regenerative agronomy

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Spring crop management

Accurate application still key to blackgrass conundrum

wo Avadex applicators supplied by Cambridgeshire-based Techneat Engineering are helping to ensure blackgrass control on a Wiltshire farm. Targeted use of Avadex (tri-allate) alongside regular roguing, cultural systems and sterile seedbeds are all part of a successful blackgrass strategy employed by farm manager Tom Hallett across 1,640ha for JM Stratton & Co at East Farm, near Codford. “Although we have worked extremely hard to reduce our overall blackgrass burden to a manageable level in most fields, its unlikely we will eradicate it completely,” he says. “The whole issue now is one of containment and targeted control.”

Go-to product Arable crops are direct drilled to minimise soil disturbance and keep dormant blackgrass seeds below the surface. Machinery is regularly cleaned and pre-emergence chemistry sequenced to reduce new infestations. But Avadex is still the main go-to product – particularly in fields with historical blackgrass problems and on crops such as winter barley, where chemical options are much more limited than on winter wheat. Mr Hallett purchased the first of two Avacast GR applicators from Techneat Engineering in 2015. The busy autumn period meant the farm had not always able to secure an Avadex contractor within the critical 48 hour window following drilling, he explains. Both Avacast applicators are mounted on 6m drills. Avadex Excel 15G granules are applied at the same time as seed is drilled – saving both fuel costs and time by removing an additional pass with a machine.

36 ANGLIA FARMER • JANUARY 2021

Above: Applying Avadex at the same time as drilling reduces the number of passes. Above right: Output is monitored via the cab mounted rate controller. Below: Spreader plates are behind the drill to stop Avadex contacting the seed.

Smart move “This also helps maintain our system of controlled traffic and protects the soil,” says Mr Hallett. “They’re accurate and simple to operate with metering matched to the forward speed of the drill.” Investing in two applicators was a smart move, he adds. “I would estimate that we’ve now recouped most of the original investment costs on the applicators from what we’ve subsequently saved on contractors during the same period.” The set-up on both machines is straightforward. The Avacast hopper is positioned just in front of the drill to make it more accessible for refilling. Spreader plates are correctly positioned every 500mm along the full width of the drill. This provides a double overlap and even distribution of the Avadex granules. Mr Hallett says it is also important to ensure the plates are positioned

“

well behind any soil disturbance so Avadex doesn’t contact the seed.

Good coverage “We calibrate once before use and the machines are as accurate now as the day we bought them,” says Mr Hallett. Avadex is applied at exactly 15kg/ ha. In optimum conditions, drilling at a speed of 10-11kph we can apply up to 50ha of Avadex per day, although this is tempered by some smaller fields and fields further away from the main farm. Technical back up and support from Techneat on both minor repairs and during the initial set-up period was excellent, adds Mr Hallett. No modifications or alterations have been required since purchase. “Going forward we also have the option to use both applicators to spread slug pellets whilst establishing rape or to apply cover crops if desired. The range of potential options is definitely another bonus.”

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JANUARY 2021 • ANGLIA FARMER 37

Spring crop management

Watch out for flea beetle pressure as spring beckons • Pest remains a challenge on farms • Beetle numbers not as low as hoped • Careful crop management required

ilseed rape growers are being warned of significant larval damage from cabbage stem flea beetle this coming spring. Better oilseed rape establishment this season doesn’t necessarily mean cabbage stem flea beetle pressures have been any lower in many parts of the country, warns ADAS entomologist Sacha White. Some 200-500 adult beetle numbers were being found in a single trap by the end of September in traditionally problematic

areas, according to ADAS monitoring of 14 farmers in partnership with Harper Adams University Dr White said there had been far fewer reports of establishment disasters last autumn. And in some parts of the country, eight-week cumulative beetle levels in monitor traps had been below 100. But he added: “Levels we have been recording are clearly substantial in the areas that generally see greater problems from the pest. What’s more, overall, they

are not noticeably lower than we have been expecting. “Visually, adult flea beetle damage may appear to be much less than the last two seasons in many cases. But because leaf damage is far less noticeable in better-growing crops, in reality flea beetle populations may be every bit as high.” Unsettled weather in August could have played a part in delaying the peak of migrations. But there was the usual buildup of adults in traps from early September – with a big jump in the middle of the month coinciding with drier, more settled conditions. Earlier sown crops were able to take advantage of good levels of soil moisture so they were

well beyond their most vulnerable stage by this time. But early sown crops tend to suffer much higher larval burdens that later sown-ones. Dr White said: “We know that having to write-off a crop in the spring has a far greater economic impact that losing it in the autumn. So, we are certainly not out of the flea beetle woods yet.”

Beneficial insects On the positive side, the ADAS team suggests that better-grown crops are likely to able to tolerate greater larval damage. At the same time, lower insecticide use last autumn may help predation by encouraging the build-up of beneficial insects. Under these circumstances,

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ADAS crop physiologist Sarah Kendall urges growers to keep a careful eye on their crops as they come through the winter so they can apply the most appropriate – and cost-effective – agronomy over the spring and early summer. “On the one hand, we know even crops with very high levels of flea beetle larvae in the spring can yield surprisingly well if they are robust enough to compensate sufficiently and their plant populations and growing conditions allow them to do so. “On the other, as we saw last season, crops that are in the wrong place coming out of the winter or don’t have the right conditions can be devastated by relatively modest larval populations.”

Growers must strike a balance when assessing crops, says Sarah Kendall

More than anything else, Dr Kendall says growers need to avoid two things – either abandoning a crop which has every chance of going on to yield reasonably, or ploughing on regardless with one that is most unlikely to do so. “Instead, we need to make the best-informed field-by-field decisions on the extent of inputs warranted at a time when we can most effectively adjust them to give ourselves the best margin-earning opportunities. “To do so our management has to be as much about understanding the essentials of the crop’s performance ability as dealing with flea beetle – which means dispassionately assessing each crop as it comes into the spring.” Growers shoulw look for a number of key factors well beyond larval levels. These include rooting, soil condition, plant population, green area index and the sort of oilseed rape potential experience suggests is possible from each soil type.

Flea beetle numbers remain higher than expected

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Spring crop management

Tiller for easier cover crop incorporation

uhn Farm Machinery has launched a shallow soil cultivator for the breakdown and incorporation into soils of cover crops, other plant residues and organic manures. The EL Biomulch is a development within Kuhn’ established EL Cultitiller range. It is aimed at farms seeking to improve soil organic matter levels through the increased use of cover crops and organic fertilisers. Kuhn says the machine has potential to reduce the need for plant desiccating agrochemicals and can aid incorporation for bio-fumigation and have a role in cultivating grassland for renewal or following crops. The EL Biomulch is currently available in a 3m working width, designed to work at up to 10kph and is suitable for tractors up to 160hp. It is particularly effective in combination with a front mounted shredder when working in tall and dense cover crops.

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The rotor is fitted with 72 angled blades giving a complete mulching operation across the full working width. Blades have a 95° degree angle to maximise the effectiveness of root and plant residue destruction while avoiding soil smearing and crust formation. The machine is designed to operate within the top 3-5cm of

the soil. Working depth controlled by four adjustable wheels at the front of the machine. Adjustments can be made and depth gauges ensure the machine is always set level. A hydraulically adjustable hood allows close control of the finish and can be operated from the tractor cab. The machine can

be used with the hood fully closed for increased safety when working near public spaces. Designed to the same mechanical specification as Kuhn’s EL Cultitillers, the EL Biomulch has a heavy duty duplex gearbox and adjustable rotor speeds to allow adaption for different applications.

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Livestock Farm leaders join forces to oppose live export ban • Export ban possible after Brexit • Defra sides with welfare lobby • Trade in livestock ‘is essential’

ndustry leaders are taking joint action to ensure livestock exports can continue after the government unveiled plans to ban the trade. Proposals to ban the export of live animals for slaughter and fattening were published by Defra last month. The government said it marked the start of a renewed push to strengthen the UK’s position as a world leader on animal welfare. The proposals form part of an eightweek consultation seeking views on how to better protect animal welfare during transport. Defra said livestock commonly endured excessively long journeys during exports, causing distress and injury.

The government wants sheep slaughtered prior to export

of 29 organisations who signed a joint industry letter to government, highlighting the major disruption that could be on the cards for animal exports.

High welfare Association chief executive Phil Stocker said: “We really need clarity and support from government to ensure that high welfare animal exports continue. Unfortunately, whether we reach a [Brexit] deal or not, we are not out of the woods.” Sheep producers have already faced years of uncertainty due to Brexit. Proposed changes to legislation and the bureaucracy would no doubt cause further interruption for animal exports, added Mr Stocker. “We hope that by combining forces as an industry, Defra will respond to the positive suggestions in this letter

‘Needless stress’ Defra secretary George Eustice said: “Now that we have left the EU, we have an opportunity to end this unnecessary practice. We want to ensure that animals are spared stress prior to slaughter.” Some 6,400 animals are transported from the UK directly to slaughter in continental Europe annually, according to Defra figures. Animal welfare campaigners have long called for the trade the be outlawed. But farm leaders are fighting back. The National Sheep Association is one

and make some further policy changes even at this late stage that could at least reduce some of the disruption.” The RSPCA said sheep and dairy calves were among the livestock most commonly exported from the UK on gruelling journeys that could last tens of hours, exhausting the animals and causing suffering and even death.

UK standards Long journeys could cause fear, exhaustion and dehydration. Animals were sometimes exposed to temperature extremes and lack of food, water or rest. Once they had left the country, heir welfare was also no longer protected by UK standards. RSPCA chief executive Chris Sherwood said the charity shared the government’s goal to ban live exports. There is absolutely no reasonable justification to subject an animal to an unnecessarily stressful journey abroad simply for them to be fattened for slaughter. “Banning live exports for slaughter and further fattening would be a landmark achievement for animal welfare. We’re also encouraged to see that the government will also consult on reduced maximum journey times for all transported animal.” Mr Sherwood said the RSPCA had received overwhelming public support for a ban. “It’s clear that bringing a complete end to live animal exports would be very well received, and of course make an enormous difference to the welfare of the animals.”

Breakfast Club launched for sheep producers

n online Breakfast Club aims to help sheep producers adjust to a new way of working following the end of the Brexit transition period. Launched by the National Sheep Association, the club will bring farmers together for a weekly online breakfast seminar. The webinars will be held on four consecutive Wednesdays starting at 8.30am on 20 January.

42 ANGLIA FARMER • JANUARY 2021

Each week, the one-hour webinar will see industry leaders and experts deliver concise and useful information to help sheep farmers improve their businesses during what continues to be an uncertain time for the sector. The webinars will include NSA office holders and corporate supporters. NSA chief executive Phil Stocker said: “We hope they will be engaging and useful short sessions

that can be enjoyed over breakfast before the day’s jobs really begin.” The four sessions will cover changes to existing UK trade deals, the future of UK farm support, the Environmental Land Management (ELM) scheme and a focus on differences to legislation between the UK’s four devolved nations. For full details, visit www.bit.ly/sheepbreakfast.

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PROFILE • WORSTEAD ESTATE

Wagyu beef proves a win Judith Tooth visits the Paterson brothers – producing top of the range beef and hosting weddings in a former woodyard.

nly the best will do for the Worstead Wagyu herd: premium grade accommodation for premium market beef. All is calm in the cattle yard. Soothing music plays as the newborn calves lie deep in straw and their mothers chew the cud or get a good scratch from the cow brush. Come nightfall, the lighting will dim to a red glow so as not to disrupt their sleep. The first Wagyus arrived on the Worstead estate in the Norfolk Broads – run by brothers Gavin, Alex and Bruce Paterson – in 2016, following the dispersal of its two dairy herds. They needed some cattle to fill the sheds pre44 ANGLIA FARMER • JANUARY 2021

viously occupied by the dairy cows, and decided it made more sense to go for a high value market. “We were blown away by the quality of the meat,” says Gavin. “It was the obvious thing to do.” Embryo transfer was used to produce a nucleus herd of full-blood Wagyu. Now sexed semen is being used to build up numbers more quickly. The brothers now claim the biggest Wagyu herd in Norfolk, with 40 head of breeding stock. Herd size was also given an early boost using some of Alex’s cattle – he runs a herd of Angus and Red Poll cows on the estate – to produce Wagyu

the abattoir at 16 months – and there was no marbling in the meat. We learnt our lesson quickly.” Feeding only grass and forage doesn’t produce the necessary marbling either, he says. But imported feedstuffs such as soy are avoided, and only local byproducts, such as rapeseed meal, sugar beet pulp and wheat bran, used in the finishing ration. Apple pomace proved popular – and difficult to transport. But with a young cider orchard on the estate, planted three years ago, it may be back on the menu before too long.

Stewardship The cattle graze the estate’s meadows, most of which follow a watercourse and woodland through the estate, and which are being linked with gateways funded by a Countryside Stewardship mid tier grant. A mob-grazing trial produced big improvements over set stocking rates, with an increase in the amount of forage produced, a more diverse sward, lower inputs of fertiliser and less need for fly treatment. The system will be rolled out in 2021, along with reseeding some swards. “We plan to introduce sheep to run behind the cattle, grazing on plants they didn’t want, cleaning up the edges of the paddocks, introducing a different type of dung and a different hoof pattern,” says Gavin. Pasture poultry is also planned behind the sheep to tread in the cattle and sheep, treading in their manure,

and adding their own, eating fly larvae and benefitting from a more varied diet themselves. While the cattle are currently overwintered in straw yards, the aim is to get to the point where finishing and youngstock can stay out year-round. Arable fields adjoining the permanent pasture could be used to grow forage brassicas, doubling up as a green manure and improving water filtration through the soil.

“

We were blown away by the quality of the meat

Left: The Worstead Wagyu herd now numbers 40 head of breeding stock. Below: Gavin and Bruce Paterson in the cattle yard.

Investment Wagyu production is a long-term investment: while the crossbreds are ready for slaughter at between 26 and 30 months, the full-bloods take up to three years. While the shortage of local facilities creates difficulties for many livestock farmers, the Worstead estate is within just a few miles of multi-species abattoir HG Blake Ltd. From there, carcasses are hung for 28 days, butchered, and returned to the estate for freezing in a dedicated container. Direct sales are growing – with Covid, more so than planned – and a range of boxes with different cuts of frozen meat are boxed up and delivered via a courier each week. “We’re building up repeat local custom,” says Bruce. “And we’ve had a big marketing push through our website and on social media, in local magazines and in London-based restaurant guides such as The Handbook,” says Bruce. >>

nner from Norfolk estate crosses. This helped introduce potential customers to the eating qualities of Wagyu beef at less than full price.

Rich flavour “Beef from Wagyu crossbreds is about the same price as, say, high-end Angus beef, so you can afford to try it and get used to the difference in flavour,” says Bruce. “It’s a half-way house. Fullblood Wagyu is so packed full of richness, you don’t need a lot. “In time, people will know the taste of Wagyu beef and the herd will be purebred, and we’ll have learned the trade.” Building up the herd in this way also bought some time to learn the essentials of Wagyu production – such as the importance of slow growth rates. “Our first Wagyu-Angus crosses were fed on a commercial ration and went to JANUARY 2021 • ANGLIA FARMER 45

PROFILE • WORSTEAD ESTATE >>

Quality begins to deteriorate, however, after six months in the freezer, so Bruce has teamed up with London-based food redistribution waste charity The Felix Project, and with Carol McWhinnie of Norfolk-based meals on wheels project, Food and Beverage Buggies, to supply surplus beef.

Customers Selling direct also means getting closer to customers: “People are talking lyrically about our Wagyu beef, and the more people that try it, the more want to get it,” says Gavin. “With a milk tanker or a load of grain, there’s no feedback from customers, but with this, we get instant feedback and it’s a reward for our work.” Setting up the Worstead Wagyu herd is one of many recent developments on the 800ha estate. With three brothers needing to earn a living from it and to plan for the next generation, they had to consider options for new streams of income. What emerged was a decision to make the estate a destination: a place where people could experience and interact with the landscape, and enjoy its produce. And the park, says Gavin,

was the obvious place to start. “It was my father’s dream to open up the park in some way,” he says. Worstead House was demolished in the 1930s, and the surrounding park, set out by landscape designer Humphry Repton, had fallen into disuse, apart from pheasant shooting. Now, a courtyard of farm buildings cen-

Bruce and Gavin Paterson at their new wedding venue, converted from an old woodyard, and due for completion before spring.

tred around the old estate woodyard has been transformed into a wedding venue. Due for completion by end of the winter, it has a flexible series of spaces: couples can marry in the ceremony room, or opt for an island wedding on the lake; they can hold their wedding breakfast in a marquee, and dance in the large thatched barn. There are full catering facilities on site, with lists of preferred suppliers to maintain high standards. And there’s plenty of room to relax in the walled garden nearby. Bridal accommodation is offered in a newly restored Georgian house opposite the venue, and restoration of further buildings for wedding accommodation is underway. The bride can even arrive by boat across the lake. Gavin is confident the timing is right: “Between Christmas and February is the traditional time for engagements to be made. Then there’s the trade season in spring, and then we’ll kick off with summer bookings. We have a few already. And we hope to capture weddings cancelled [because of Covid].” His father’s dream is about to be fulfilled.

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Livestock

Campaign sees £2.5m boost in lamb sales

six-week campaign to encourage shoppers to buy British lamb has generated an extra £2.45m in sales. The ‘Make it Lamb’ campaign launched just as new season lamb came onto the market. It focused on promoting lamb’s versatility and ease of cooking – particularly around barbecue season. The £440k campaign – which ran in July and August – included radio sponsorship, print and digital advertising. It generated a return of £5.59 for every £1 spent on the activity and sales of an additional 261t of fresh lamb. An extra 272,000 shoppers purchased fresh lamb after seeing the campaign. It used money from a £3.5m fund of money from the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board, Hybu cig Cymru and Quality Meat Scotland. A joint statement from the three levy boards said: “We’re confident that

the positive results leaving lamb top of mind for dinner inspiration will have carried over into the early Autumn as we moved into Septembers Love Lamb Week. “Supporting the UK’s sheep sector is now more important than ever and we will continue to do all we can to stimulate demand for lamb cuts, given the uncertainty around trade deals and with Brexit on the horizon.” The cross-channel mix of promotions reached 74% of British households. A partnership with celebrity chef John Torode reached his 165,000 followers, sharing the message that when cooking with lamb, make it high quality from trusted British farms. ‘Make it Lamb’ built on the success of its predecessor ‘Make it Steak’, which saw a beef revenue growth of almost £10million across Britain. The campaign creative focused on the promotion of fresh, local lamb cuts to stimulate demand when cooking at home.

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Professional Services Review farm business to prepare for year ahead

Farmland market set to remain firm

• Try to optimise revenue from assets • Plan ahead for a range of scenarios • Huge potential to diversify incomes

and values are expected to remain robust during 2021 due to a lack of supply and increased demand from both farmers and investors. Despite uncertainty around future farm support, rents have also continued to remain firm although the impending reduction in basic payments is expected to have an impact over the coming 12 months. Reductions in the basic payment will begin this year as the government paves the way for its forthcoming Environmental Land Management scheme. But so far there is little information about how the new scheme will work. “The devil is in the detail and the government needs to provide a gentle transition across to new funding structures,” says Jonathan Stiff, a director at land agents Cheffins. As it is, there is little clarity over future payments. Other issues to be aware of throughout 2021 are the growing numbers of infrastructure projects throughout our region, such as the East-West Railway line and the Bexwell to Bury St Edmunds strategic pipeline. This will raise questions over compulsory purchase orders and fair representation for landowners. Similarly, issues such as countryside trespass – which has rocketed during Covid-19 – will need careful handling and management.

astern region farmers are being urged to review their finances and put their businesses on the strongest possible footing for 2021. The agricultural sector has faced a myriad of challenges over the last 12 months – with many enterprises forced to think creatively in a bid to diversify their income, says Gwilym Jenkins, from the rural team at Savills, Cambridge. With 2021 now here – and fresh changes on the horizon – Mr Jenkins says now is an opportune time for rural businesses to reassess their strategy and look at ways to safeguard their future. “We have seen a big rise in farmers and landowners asking for advice on future proofing their business,” he says.

Better margins Most reviews include analysing the core business to identify ways to improve margins. Doing so can also pave the way to free-up capital to invest in diversification and increase alternative income streams. Scenario planning is often an effective way to prepare for what’s ahead. Appraising property assets, for example, could lead to a decision to create a new business, shared occupation units or improvements to services such as broadband. “This approach, done well, could lead to the release of redundant farm buildings for commercial and/or residential use to meet the growing demand from those new to remote working who want to relocate to the countryside. “Excellent connectivity will be a pre-requisite and new or improved social and leisure space will add value for

“

More farmers are looking to futureproof their business

new and existing tenants and residents.” With incomes coming under pressure, the phase-out of the Basic Payment Scheme will further focus minds. Farming was already confronting a whole host of issues before the challenge of Covid-19, says Mr Jenkins.

Challenges ahead “On top of that we have potential tax changes and new planning regulations. With so much to consider there is now a real need for farmers who are not currently assessing their future cash requirements to do so swiftly.” The pandemic served as a timely reminder of the fine balance between success and failure. For some, Covid-19 has had a profound effect on markets and, for others, it has opened up new and exciting opportunities. “Fears of empty shelves and food shortages have proved ill-founded, while elsewhere estates have partnered with glamping businesses to replace lost visitor attraction income and others have installed on-farm vending machines.” The past year has seen renewed interest in the contribution of the countryside to wellbeing, food production, tourism and leisure, adds Mr Jenkins. There is huge potential for rural businesses to capitalise on this, he says. A business review can free-up capital for investment, says Gwilym Jenkins

Significant receipts Even so, Mr Stiff says the region continues to offer landowners opportunities for development, diversification and alternative uses. Sales of land to housebuilders continue to produce significant receipts and during the year, he adds. Cheffins handled a number of development site sales last year. Other opportunities include solar farms and battery storage – where demand is rising due to a reduction in the price of solar panels and higher electricity prices. Farming-wise, there is talk of a much improved 2021 wheat harvest, says Mr Stiff. But the focus on farm support on the environment, rather than simply the area farmed, will bring opportunities too. JANUARY 2021 • ANGLIA FARMER 49

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Professional Services

Be aware of wealth tax proposals, farmers warned

andowners and farmers are being advised to consider the possible impact of a new wealth tax as the government looks to claw back a record budget deficit. With budget deficit approaching a peacetime record, a new tax on wealth is being considered by the UK government. Depending on how it is implemented, the tax could have a big impact on farmers, say legal and financial experts. A proposed new tax to tackle national debt should come as no surprise given the cost of mitigating the impact of the corona-

virus pandemic on the UK economy, said Ben Taylor, associate at Roythornes Solicitors. In a final report published last month, the Wealth Tax Commission concluded there would be a largely positive public response to a tax of this nature – either as a one-off or an annual tax. The proposed tax would affect net wealth over a certain threshold, which is yet to be determined. However, the commission found that a one-off Wealth Tax charged at an annual rate of 1% for five years above threshold of £500,000 would raise £260bn. “This would clearly make sig-

Norfolk contractor sells off machinery

timed online auction of second-hand machinery sold on behalf of Norfolk contractor WR Chapman & Son saw good prices last month. Prices achieved included £55,500 for a 2012 Claas Xerion 5000 tractor. Three 2017 Valtra T234 Valtra tractors made £53,500, £52,000 and £49,250. Two Dezeure Multitrans D20 trailers made £35,750 and £35,000. A 2012 Volvo excavator made £31,000. Cheffins director Oliver Godfrey said: “The Chapman sale saw a good, wide-ranging lot inventory – with some unusual kit on offer such as the Dezeure

nificant headway towards resolving the deficit but could cause problems for a variety of regular taxpayers,” said Mr Taylor. A one-off tax calculated on an individual or household basis could present an issue for households where there is an imbalance of wealth. Farmers could also find themselves in trouble if a one-off wealth tax included all property as well as liquid assets. With farmers coming under increased financial pressure due to Brexit, a tax could have a significant effect on the agricultural sector, said Mr Taylor. The impact could also affect decisions on savings, he added. Big increases in property prices over recent years could affect people’s ability to pay. With many families maintaining their wealth in property, a lot of indi-

Many farmers would be affected by a wealth tax, says Ben Taylor

viduals have constrained liquidity because they are asset-rich but cash-poor. The commission also recommended a reform of existing taxes – especially Inheritance Tax and Capital Gains Tax. Mr Taylor believes it is only a matter of time before there are substantial changes here too.

multitrans D20 overload trailers. The sale saw a strong mix of agricultural machinery, plant and ancillaries.” Mr Godfrey said the auction calendar was busy for 2021. “As uncertainty around Brexit and farm subsidies continues, we expect that both domestic and overseas buyers will continue to look to auctions to pick up good quality second-hand items.” Hammer prices reported exclude VAT and a 2.5% buyers’ premium. Owner William Chapman is retaining some machinery for his 1,200ha arable operation, including tractors, combine harvesters and sprayers.

JANUARY 2021 • ANGLIA FARMER 51

Professional Services

Prepare now for major changes to farm support • Basic payments to be phased out • Major impact on all farm incomes • Detail unavailable for new system

armers should prepare for change after the government confirmed that basic payments will be halved by 2024 – and phased out completely within seven years. The loss of the Basic Payment Scheme will see profits fall across the dairy, livestock and arable sectors, according to financial forecasts prepared by agricultural business consultants Brown & Co. Calculations suggest a 306% drop in net profit compared to 2020 for a typical 420ha eastern counties farm producing cereals, legumes and sugar beet – although 2020 was an unprecedented year for the arable sector. A typical 81ha dairy farm milking 150 cows plus youngstock, could see a 21% reduction in net profit. Meanwhile a 142ha (350 acre) lowland beef and sheep farm with a bed and breakfast diversification could see a 113% drop in net profit.

Real opportunities’ “The basic payment reduction will have a big impact on overall profit even in a normalised year,’’ says Brown & Co consultant Paul Waberski. “In summary, nearly every sector will be impacted by the change to a greater or

lesser degree.’’ Mr Waberski says there will be “real opportunities’’ for farmers to exploit during the transition period. But there will also be difficult decisions for businesses to make – and farmers should be prepared to plan for the future. Brown & Co has developed a free web-based tool so farmers can see the effect that the withdrawal of basic payments will have on their own individual business. They can then plan ways of mitigating the impact. Once farmers have registered and entered their data, the tool calculates basic reductions over the next seven years. It also allows farmers to understand the opportunities of changing cropping and introducing new incomes streams.

Alternative land use Brown & Co consultant and natural capital specialist Greg Beeton says: “This tool aligns closely with the work we are delivering with Defra to prepare farmers for the changes ahead – and provides a real opportunity to start planning right now.’’ The tool also has a facility that allows farmers to look at alternative cropping and land use, including Coun-

IMPACT OF BASIC PAYMENT REDUCTIONS (2021-2024) [SOURCE: BROWN & CO] Arable model farm BPS received 2020 (£) Estimated reduction (£) Expected payment (£)

2021 90,552 11,610 78,941

2022 90,552 25,193 65,358

2023 90,552 38,776 51,776

2024 90,552 52,359 38,193

Dairy model farm BPS received 2020 (£) Estimated reduction (£) Expected payment (£)

2021 18,000 900 17,100

2022 18,000 3,600 14,400

2023 18,000 6,300 11,700

2024 18,000 9,000 9,000

Liverstock model farm BPS received 2020 (£) Estimated reduction (£) Expected payment (£)

2021 31,449 1,644 29,804

2022 31,449 6,362 25,086

2023 31,449 11,079 20,369

2024 31,449 15,797 15,652

52 ANGLIA FARMER • JANUARY 2021

tryside Stewardship, to optimise their returns and help to mitigate the reduction in basic payments. Under the current system, farmers are paid £232/ha for every hectare they control for the 12-month claim period. But this will be removed and the emphasis will be placed on paying farmers for undertaking environmental work. The government says farmers will be able to offset some lost income by signing up to Defra’s forthcoming Environmental Land Management (ELM) scheme. But the scheme won’t be fully up and running until 2024.

Environmental payments Key targets under ELM include the delivery of environmental benefits such as improving soil health, cleaner air and water – as well as helping to mitigate climate change by capturing and storing carbon. An interim Sustainable Farming Incentive is due to launch before then. But the details are unclear. Grant funding is also expected to be made available for farmers to improve productivity and invest in their businesses. Defra has said it wants to “move beyond” compensating farmers for losses and reward them for the true

Changes in farm support are the biggest for more than 50 years Below: Farmers should look to offset big reductions in support, says Paul Waberski

value of the services they deliver. Numerous pilot schemes are being tested but payments to farmers have yet to be calculated. The government says an early re-

tirement scheme will enable older farmers to leave the industry with dignity. Defra says this will also encourage new entrants into agriculture – including innovative younger farmers.

Phasing out direct payments to farmers represent the most significant change to farm support for 50 years. The government says the changes will ensure that farmers can sustainably produce healthy food profitably without support, while taking steps to improve the environment, improve animal health and welfare and reduce carbon emissions. Starting this year, basic payments will be phased out over seven years. They will be halved by 2024 and gone altogether by 2028. Instead, farmers will have to undertake environmental work in return for public support. Defra secretary George Eustice (right) says: “We want to support the choices that farmers and land managers take. If we work together to get this right, then a decade from now the rest of the world will want to follow our lead.”

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Biggest changes for 50 years – Defra

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Machinery

Farm thefts prompt plea to ‘Lock up your 4x4s’ • Thieves target iconic Land Rovers • Traditional Defenders in demand • Criminal gangs scour countryside

surge in thefts of Land Rover Defenders has prompted warnings for farmers to increase security measures as criminal gangs scour the countryside. Thefts of the iconic vehicles are back on the rise after a decrease from AprilJune. Land Rover ceased production of the traditional Defenders in 2016 – and thieves are now targeting the 4x4s for spare parts. NFU Mutual rural Affairs specialist Rebecca Davidson said: “Defenders continue to be a target for thieves and every week farmers and enthusiast owners are waking up to find their precious Land Rovers gone – or stripped of bonnets, doors and wings.” The cost Defender theft increased by 34% to £2.1m in 2019, according to NFU Mutual insurance claim figures. The level of thefts then dipped but over the past few months they have risen once again.

“

Farmers are waking up to find their Land Rovers gone.

Ms Davidson explained: “There’s a burgeoning black market for parts, with many of these beloved classics getting dismantled in driveways and farmyards, or being whisked away to chop shops.” At least four Defender thefts a week were being reported to NFU Mutual in January 2020, with numbers falling to six per month from April to June. But thefts have risen sharply again and are heading back up to pre-Covid levels. Ms Davidson said NFU Mutual was warning people in the countryside to be on high alert. She added: “Trackers, alarms and storing vehicles out of sight have all been effective measures protecting these British icons.” First launched in 1948, Land Rovers have become a prized choice for classic vehicle owners – as well as still being used every day on farms across the country long after the last Defender rolled off the Solihull production line.

Vintage value NFU Mutual has insured thousands of Land Rover Defenders from the days when the first Series I models appeared in the nation’s fields. It is advising owners to use a mixture of physical security and sophisticated electronic measures to protect vehicles.

10th anniversary for strip tillage manufacturer See p57

TOP TIPS

VEHICLE SECURITY Keep the vehicle locked at all times when not in use Fit an accredited alarm for security and tracking device to your vehicle Fit a mechanical immobiliser such as a steering wheel or pedal lock Mark component parts using a forensic marking solution or system Keep the vehicle in a lockable building or park in well-lit areas Have the vehicle identification number etched on windows Consider fitting a hidden battery isolation or a fuel cut-off switch Take photographs of unusual features, modifications, damage or repairs Ensure valuables are removed from the vehicle Don’t share information about your vehicle on social media [Source: NFU Mutual]

“With prices of Series I models soaring due to their vintage value, organised criminals are scouring farmyards and country properties to spot examples they can steal,” explained Ms Davidson. The insurer also works closely with the National Vehicle Intelligence Service (NaVCIS) – the national police unit that works to protect communities from vehicle finance fraud and associated serious and organised crime.

Wheel following for trailed sprayers

Land Rover Defenders and older series vehicles are being stolen

uhn has introduced an automatic steering axle system as an option on its Metris 2 and Oceanis 2 trailed sprayers – enabling more precise driving and reducing crop damage. Fitting a machine with steering axle technology is usually a time-consuming task, with brackets to make and the linkage to attach to the rear of the tractor. The Track Assist system replaces the mechanical connection with a gyroscopic sensor, which is fixed to the rear of the tractor with a magnet. Sensors detect the steering angle of the trac-

tor and the sprayer follows the tractor’s trajectory. Track Assist has an operating angle of 23º on the Metris 2 and 28º on the Oceanis 2. The system activates across a forward speed range from 2-22kph. This ensures efficacy working at the headlands and safety when in transport mode. The Track Assist system also realigns the sprayer with the tractor when reversing, to increase the ease of manoeuvrability. It is priced the same as a mechanical wheel following system for these Kuhn sprayers. JANUARY 2021 • ANGLIA FARMER 55

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LESS THAN

1500 1000 HOURS

MF 1740A

MF 5710 SL

MF 7718

MF 7720 S

MF 7726 S EX D6

MF 8730 S

£15,295.00

£41,000.00

£48,250.00

£84,250.00

£93,500.00

£82,500.00

40 HP Tyres: 212 X 80 D15 Turf 355 X 80 D20 Turf

LESS THAN

1000 500 HOURS

2017, 3100 Hrs, 110 HP Tyres: 550/60R22.5 (40%) 650/65R30.5 (50%)

2016, 4253 Hrs, 190 HP Tyres: 16.9R28 (60%) 20.8R38 (60%)

LESS THAN

2019, 880 Hrs, 210 HP Tyres: 600/65R28 WA (95%) 650/65R42 WS (95%)

2018, 2217 Hrs, 280 HP Tyres: 600/65R28 (90%) 650/75R38 (90%)

LESS THAN

1000 500

LESS THAN

1500

HOURS

2017, 1982 Hrs, 320 HP Tyres: 600/70R28 (80%) 650/85R38 (90%)

1500 1000

HOURS

A134LH

N134H5

N174V

T174EA

T234D

T254V

£59,950.00

£64,500.00

£69,850.00

£77,650.00

£82,500.00

£107,000.00

MF TH.7038

MANITOU MLT 634 PS

MANITOU MLT 735

MANITOU MLT 741

CAT TH407

CAT TH407 C

£56,000.00

£39,995.00

£39,500.00

£51,750.00

£25,950.00

£28,950.00

FORD RANGER

ISUZI D-MAX

MITSUBISHI L200

NISSAN NAVARA

£17,990.00

£19,495.00

£19,490.00

£12,990.00

£19,990.00 (NO VAT)

£14,790.00

2018, 250 Hrs, 145 HP Tyres: 440/65R24 (95%) 540/65R34 (95%)

2018, 350 Hrs, 140 HP Tyres: 480/65R28 (95%) 600/65R38 (95%)

2017, 2015 Hrs, 185 HP Tyres: 540/65R28 (80%) 650/60R38 (80%)

2019, 1389 Hrs, 185 HP Tyres: 540/65R28 (85%) 650/65R38 (90%)

2018, 2350 Hrs, 240 HP Tyres: 600/60R30 (70%) 710/60R42 (80%)

2017, 600 Hrs, 260 HP Tyres: 600/65R28 (90%) 650/75R38 (90%)

LESS THAN

1500 1000 HOURS

Year: 2017, 860 Hrs Tyres: 500/70R24 Micheline 90%

2016 (66) 3.2 TDCi Manual Double Cab 44,246 Miles

Year: 2016 Tyres: 460/70R24 100% 2704 Hrs

2017 (17) 2.5 TD Yukon Auto Double Cab 32,224 Miles

Year: 2015, 4258 Hrs Powershift Transmission 3950 Hrs

2018 (69) 2.4 Barbarian Auto Double Cab 21,709 Miles

Year: 2016, 2450 Hrs Powershift Transmission Tyres: 460/70R24 70%

2016 (16) 2.4 Titan Manual Double Cab 63,550 Miles

Year: 2009, 5619 Hrs 500/70 R24 TRELLEBORGS 75%

2016 (16) 2.3 Tekna Auto Double Cab 40,424 Miles

Errors and omissions excepted. All prices +VAT

Ag ; Graham Peall: 07970 121109 Andrew Elms: 07860 464753 Pick-Up’s ; Richard Young / Adam Swales: 01476 590077

Year: 2014 AG Premium 140+ 500/70R24

2016 (66) 2.3 Acenta Manual Double Cab 61,178 Miles

Anglia Machinery

10th anniversary for strip tillage manufacturer

ritish strip tillage drill manufacturer Mzuri prepare to celebrate the 10th anniversary of its popular Pro-Til drill. Developed by farmer and engineer Martin Lole on his Worcestershire farm, the Mzuri strip tillage system has since gone on to export to more than 20 countries worldwide spanning four continents. From its first appearance at Cereals in 2011, the Pro-Til has won many awards for its contribution to sustainable agricultural innovation. They include the Institute of Agricultural Engineers best innovation Ivel Award for the Mzuri Pro-Til Xzact. “I am fortunate to have seen firsthand the effects that converting to a single pass establishment method can have on a deteriorating arable unit,” says Mr Lole, who converted his own farm to strip tillage in 2010. “When I first purchased the farm in 2005, I set about ploughing and combi-

nation drilling the Evesham Lias Clay, but after rising input costs and dwindling yields it was clear that this approach was no longer financially viable.” With a background in engineering from starting the hedgecutter company Spearhead, Mr Lole developed the single pass drill now known as the ProTil to consolidate seedbed preparation, fertiliser application, and seed distribution in a single pass. “Under conventional establishment methods, we were burning fuel and wearing metal like it was going out of fashion – not to mention the huge power and labour requirements that were needed to create a blanket seedbed.” Seeding directly into stubble while targeting tillage to promote cost-effective and rapid establishment remains a driving force behind the Pro-Til’s development. New additions to the range have followed, including the Rezult stubble rake and Rehab subsoiler.

The Mzuri strip tillage system has multiple benefits – and saves money, says Martin Lole (below)

“Improvements to soil health seen on our own farm have demonstrated the importance of reduced cultivations – not only for practical reasons but also in promoting healthier, more productive ‘factory floors’. “Our soils are now much more resilient to changing weather patterns and are able to support higher yielding crops in difficult seasons.”

PatersonAg

LTD

I N D E P E N D E N T

B R O K E R S

JANUARY 2021 • ANGLIA FARMER 57

Anglia Machinery

Partnership streamlines Trimble Agriculture support

rimble Agriculture has partnered with TeamViewer to provide remote technical support to farmers in the field – saving time and money. In the case of any technology issue, the support team can access

the in-tractor display screen remotely and troubleshoot the problem, helping farmers to get back to work more quickly while delivering performance improvements. TeamViewer can be accessed on the Trimble TMX-2050, GFX-

750 and GFX-350 displays – enabling technicians us to connect with customers and provide real time support without the need for lengthy travel, says Trimble regional sales representative Lee Clarke. Although support staff could

SymAgri appointed as Trimble reseller Farmers now have access to more localised precision farming support with the appointment SymAgri as an approved reseller for Trimble Agriculture. SymAgri is covering Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire and north Essex from 1 January. It is providing a full service of Trimble’s precision agriculture range – from consultation to installation and support. “We are delighted to be part of the Trimble Agriculture network,” says SymAgri sales director Chris Tew. The dealership joins Vantage, SoilEss-

entials and Mastenbroek as an approved reseller. Farmers have a wide portfolio of products to choose from – including display screens, assisted and autopilot steering, as well as implements control and data management. All systems work with any brand of tractor or machine. “It’s the ethos of SymAgri to provide independent advice to ensure our customers receive the right precision technology solution for them, with support from a team of trained Trimble Engineers,” says Mr Tew.

8620 T 9640 T

Remote technical support is now available to farmers in the field

already view the Trimble displays remotely, they couldn’t directly control them. This meant they would have to talk the farmer through the troubleshooting process step-by-step. Now, they can log in remotely, says Mr Clarke. “Wherever tractor drivers are on farm they can access the information needed to make smart decisions on various tasks,” he explains. Mixed sheep and arable farmer Rob Hodgkins has used the TeamViewer system on a couple of occasions. Once was when us-

Secure your limited 8620 T or 9640 T Silver Edition now and get our special anniversary equipment package with extra savings.

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SCHAFFERUK.COM 58 ANGLIA FARMER • JANUARY 2021

Keep road users safe with roadlegal lights

T ing RTK precision technology for drilling. The problem occurred in the middle of a field. “The system wasn’t set up specifically for our tracks, so it was leaving a little gap – I tried to find out how to fix it but on my own it was impossible,” explains Mr Hodgkins. “While on a call to a Trimble technician I hot spotted my phone to the display and opened TeamViewer, now the technician could see my display and successfully talked me through what needed changing.”

ractor drivers are being reminded to ensure lights are road-legal when driving agricultural machinery on the highway. Operators often use all available white lights front and rear when on the road at night. But high-power working lights can blind other motorists – creating dangerous situations for all involved, says Martin Wickes, managing director at UTV Products. “The mass of bright white light on tractors at night gives no indication what is behind a machine or how wide it actually is because motorists eyes are drawn to the lights and blinded,” says Mr Wickes. It is illegal to show white lights

Tractor lights must be road legal

to the rear, but drivers may believe their use helps. “A high percentage of tractors and telehandlers in daily use have poor headlights and this alone can prompt the unnecessary use of bright work lights to compensate.” Road legal lights provide maximum illumination close to the vehicle as well as at greater distance and can be fitted to new and older machines. “Decent lights cost little in relation to accidents and potential loss of lives caused by

the above scenario. “In many instances, great performing headlights are a good dual-purpose investment because they improve both field and highway use when working around the clock,” says Mr Wickes. Using crisp, clean lighting akin to daylight becomes ever more important when working around the clock and front headlights are a great place to begin when upgrading light packages, he adds.

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01361 408532 www.bargam.co.uk JANUARY 2021 • ANGLIA FARMER 59

Anglia Machinery

Thurlow Nunn Standen is appointed Manitou dealer

new partnership sees Thurlow Nunn Standen become a dealer for Manitou UK – the specialist manufacturer of material handling equipment. Effective from 1 January, TNS has access to the full range of Manitou’s agricultural and industrial products and services across its entire trading area. The UK is one of Manitou’s largest export markets, with about 4,000 machines sold annually. TNS will cover a slightly smaller geographical area for the Manitou construction product range and will be responsible for sales of new machines while providing aftersales back up to existing customers. Manitou’s current product range includes agricultural and construction telehandlers, rotat-

ing telehandlers, rough terrain forklifts, industrial forklifts, access platforms, warehouse equipment and attachments. Most machines include telematics as standard. This ensures the dealer can remotely access service information to minimise callouts. When a repair is necessary, the engineer attends the machine with advance knowledge of the necessary rectification. Manitou UK managing director Mark Ormond said: “Manitou strives to produce market leading machines and support them with market leading customer service. That means partnering with the world’s leading machinery dealers. “We are delighted to announce that TNS is our authorised agricultural and construction product dealer in East Anglia. Hav-

ing worked with TNS before, I have no doubt about the standard of service they will deliver to our mutual customers.” The inclusion of Manitou in the TNS product portfolio clearly aligns with the business’s growth strategy in the ever-changing retail environment, explained TNS managing director James Thurlow. “The addition of the Manitou brand is one we are clearly excited about. It demonstrates the company’s desire to offer a full line product portfolio, which is strategically aligned to our customers developing business needs.” All five TNS sites will promote Manitou’s full range of agricultural material handlers. Staff training programmes have been put in place for employees across sales, service and parts departments,

Mark Ormond of Manitou UK (left) with TNS chairman James Thurlow

ensuring expertise in machines and spare parts. TNS aftersales director Adrian Brown said: “TNS will also continue to offer full service and parts support to those Merlo customers we have support over the past few years until Merlo UK find a suitable partner in the east of England.”

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FINAL SAY Fen Tiger

Pathway to (un)sustainable farming The government’s bold ambition for the countryside threatens to put farmers out of business, says Fen Tiger

he word sustainable is used so often these days that we often overlook its original meaning: to maintain something at a certain level or indefinitely. Today, though, it is a word that has many meanings, depending on your context. This includes the Path to Sustainable Farming recently announced by Defra secretary George Eustice. It’s a document which seems to mention food only briefly. Coming into effect from 1 January, the Path to Sustainable Farming is the government’s roadmap to a new system of farm support. It includes the phasing out of the Basic Payment Scheme and the introduction of support based on environmental measures. Rather than receiving an annual direct payment, the Environmental Land Management Scheme will require farmers to undertake environmental work on their land in return for financial support. It’s a system known as “public money for public goods”.

Tough reality It is clear though that the Path to Sustainable Farming is a document written by bureaucrats who have never faced the tough reality of making a living from the land. They appear to see it as a once in a lifetime opportunity to change British agriculture. It is true that the system of farm support we are leaving behind has its faults. It is, in many instances, wasteful and expensive. But

62 ANGLIA FARMER • JANUARY 2021

direct payments are also a simple and effective way of helping farmers ride out difficult and volatile times. The new system – which the government is able to implement now the UK has left the European Union – will require farmers to do much more in return for financial support. And many people will argue that is exactly how it should be. If you listen to environmental groups, change is needed to reverse a decline in farmland bird numbers, hedgerows and other wildlife habitats. It’s also needed to reverse pesticide and nitrate pollution.

Battle for survival The mantra is “No more money for nothing”. The gravy train is over. Farmers will no longer be rewarded simply for owning land. But how many farming families will be able to survive the change? It’s an important question that needs to be addressed. After all, some 60% of farms rely on the basic payment to stay in business. Without farmers, who will feed the nation? It’s already hard enough to make a living from agriculture. Today, people spend much less of their income than they did just a genera-

“

The mantra is ‘No more money for nothing’

tion ago. And people expect food to be cheap – or at least affordable. In launching his Path to Sustainable Farming, George Eustice should have made clear that people must pay a fair price for food if they want the best value for money and a countryside to be proud of. British farmers already have some of the highest food standards in the world. Cheap food only serves to undermine those standards – which is why we must keep out cutprice imports of food produced using methods that would be illegal here.

No cliff edge The government argues that there will be no cliff edge. It has announced a seven-year transition period which, it says, will give farmers time to adapt as the old system is phased out and the new system is phased in, Seven years seems a long time. But it isn’t – not when policy-makers remain unsure themselves of the best way to introduce the ELM scheme. Farming is long-term business. It is hard enough to plan for the future without added uncertainty. We all came into this industry to produce food. We have all done so – despite the sometimes insurmountable challenge of trying to make a profit in the process. As a result, we have often managed our farms for meagre reward. It is not only farmers who must adapt to the new system. So too must the Rural Payments Agency. Over the years, it has shown how difficult this can be, with late payments to farmers all too common. In my experience, farmers are the gatekeepers of the countryside. As food producers, we have delivered – and mostly funded – nature for free. A profitable farmer is a good conservationist. But a poor one is not. The government should take note.

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