Anglia Farmer May 2021 by Countrywide Publications

May 2021

Anglia

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OPINION Johann Tasker

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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

s lockdown measures ease, it’s a good time to remind ourselves how lucky we have been during the coronavirus pandemic. Agriculture has been much less affected than many other sectors of the economy. And it has been much easier for us to cope with lockdown in the countryside than it has for many people living in towns and cities. Of course, the past year has been tough. Many of us have missed friends and family. Some of us have lost loved ones. But spare a thought for those people who suffered the same yet also live in cramped, high-rise blocks of flats, with no gardens and little space to exercise. The easing of lockdown is to be welcomed. But the opportunity to regain our freedom will be accompanied by threats too. It would be wrong to be alarmist but there are already forecasts of a spike in rural crime. Criminal activity is expected to increase as lockdown eases. Crime is already uppermost in farmers’ minds – as revealed by the latest NFU survey, which suggests most farmers have fallen victim to offenders.

Contents

The average financial loss per farm per incident is £5,100. For some it is much more. For 10% of victims, it is £10,000 or more. Some farmers view combating crime like an additional tax – having to constantly spend money to upgrade security (see page 4). This month sees the Police and Crime Commissioner elections on 6 May. The NFU is asking all candidates to recognise the severity of the issue and prioritise the fight against rural crime as a strategic objective. Almost two thirds of respondents (64%) believe rural crime has increased over the past year, while just over half (51%) feel not very or not at all secure from crime. More than half (54%) say that insufficient police resources are allocated to tackling it. In many cases, the police are doing all they can on limited resources. It is vital that the government allocates enough funding to rural constabularies – rather than concentrating expenditure on towns and cities. Then we really will be able to enjoy our postlockdown freedoms.

Vol 41 • No 5 • May 2021

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

Machinery ....................................................... 47

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

Property ........................................................... 53

Sprayers ............................................................ 23

Farm energy .................................................. 56

Cereals 2021 ....................................................29

Final Say .......................................................... 62

Livestock........................................................... 41

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News Rural crime is ‘blight on the countryside’ • Farmers bear brunt of criminal acts • 10% say it costs their business £10K • Police ‘need more rural resources’

he devastating impact of rural crime on farmers has prompted renewed urgent calls for more resources to tackle the issue. The most common crimes include hare coursing, fly tipping, burglary and theft, according to an NFU survey. Of the 252 respondents from East Anglia who were victims of crime in 2020, some 10% said it had cost their business £10,000 or more. The average financial loss per farm was £5,100. One farmer who asked not to be named, said: “Rural crime is like an additional tax on the business, as we are constantly spending money upgrading security.”

Severe problem The survey was conducted ahead of this month’s Police and Crime Commissioner elections on 6 May.The NFU is asking all candidates to recognise the severity of the issue and commit to prioritising a reduction in rural crime as a strategic objective.

Fly-tipping, theft and harecoursing are among the problems

Rural areas receive lower levels of police funding, says Gary Ford

NFU eastern region director Gary Ford said: “Rural crime remains a blight on the countryside. We are concerned, but sadly not surprised, that so many of our members have been affected.” The survey shows that farmers and the wider rural community are fighting back – introducing additional security measures to farms and working more closely with the police. Mr Ford said: “Many members appreciate the response they receive from the police on rural crime but feel that rural teams are under-funded and under-resourced.”

New technology Farmers are making use of new technology, such as WhatsApp, to share in-

formation with local police officers. One farmer told the NFU: “It is now impossible to grow food without people driving on crops and damaging them.” Crimes like hare coursing, fly-tipping, dog attacks on livestock and theft of large and small machinery are all leaving rural residents feeling vulnerable and under siege. Mr Ford said: “They have knockon effects on farm businesses. Despite this, rural areas continue to receive lower levels of police funding, per head of population, than urban areas. “We will be using the survey findings in our discussions with police and crime commissioner candidates to help ensure rural policing receives the resources it needs – and rural communities deserve.”

‘More needed to tackle serious problem’ The NFU survey paints a bleak picture of crime in the countryside – but one which is also sadly familiar to many farmers. Almost two thirds of respondents (64%) said rural crime had increased in the past year, while 51% said they felt “not very” or “not at all” secure from crime. More than half (54%) said insufficient police resources were allocated to tackling it. As well as their experiences of crime, the survey included questions about crime prevention measures introduced on farms over the past five

4 ANGLIA FARMER • MAY 2021

years – and how farmers are working with police. The survey results show that farmers are responding to the problem by taking steps such as blocking field entrances (78%), digging ditches around fields (45%), upgrading building security (66%) and installing CCTV (49%) on their farms. More than one third (35%) of respondents said they had regular contact with the police outside of reporting crime. These included face-to-face meetings and attendance at NFU-organised events.

Almost half of farmers surveyed say they are responding by installing CCTV.

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News

Norfolk farmers lead way in biggest ever bird count • Rare bird species recorded on farms • Farmers committed to conservation • Detailed picture of farm environment

orfolk has topped the table in a national farmland bird count – with farmers from the county completing the survey in greater numbers than anywhere else. Organised by the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust, the National Farmland Bird Count was completed by some 2,500 farmers and gamekeepers during 5-21 February – including 189 participants from Norfolk. Nationally, participation in the annual survey of farmland birds more than doubled, said organiser Roger Draycott of the GWCT. This represented a 65% increase in the number of counts submitted compared to 2020, which was also a record year. The land area covered by the count had more than doubled to more than 1m hectares (2.47m acres), said Dr

Draycott. Some 81% more birds were recorded this year by more than 700 additional volunteers. In Norfolk, 53% of the 189 farmers and gamekeepers taking part in the survey were in an agri-environment scheme – demonstrating their longterm commitment to the environmental management of farmland. Farmers counted 100 different species, 20 of which are red-listed and the top six most commonly seen were blackbird, robin, woodpigeons, carrion crows, blue tits and pheasants. “All of this helps us to build a detailed national picture of the state of Britain’s farmland birds, allowing us to better understand what is really going on in our countryside,” said Dr Draycott. “It clearly shows that farmers, land

Rare species recorded included the linnet [photo: Andy

Hay / RSPB Images]

Below: BFBC national results 2021 Below left: Some 81% more birds were surveyed this year, says Roger Draycott

managers and gamekeepers care for the land they work and, given that they look after 71% of all the land in the UK, that is extremely good news for the future of our bird species.”

Leading the way Describing the survey as encouraging, Dr Draycott said the results demonstrated that farmers and land managers were leading the way in protecting the countryside – alongside their key job of producing food. A total of 25 species from the Red List for Birds of Conservation Concern were recorded in this year’s count, with eight appearing in the 25 most frequently seen species list. Of these, starlings, fieldfare, lapwing and linnet were the four most abundant red-listed species recorded, with more than 112,000 spotted in total. This equates to 22% of all the birds counted. The five most abundant birds counted were woodpigeons, starling, rooks, fieldfare and chaffinch. Some 190,000 were seen, making up over 37% of the total number of birds recorded.

Bird count highlights importance of farming The GWCT Big Farmland Bird Count asks land managers to spend 30 minutes recording the bird species they see on their land. It is part of an annual UK-wide survey which helps conservation experts identify any species which are struggling. The count is a simple way for farmers to assess the natural capital on farm, an increasing requirement under the government’s Environmental Land Management

6 ANGLIA FARMER • MAY 2021

Scheme (ELMS). It also charts the effects of any conservation they carry out. Completing the survey year after year can help to establish the bio-diversity gains from long-term conservation efforts. The scheme was launched in 2014 to highlight the positive work done by farmers and gamekeepers in helping to reverse the decline in farmland birds. The NFU has sponsored the count for the

last three years. NFU President Minette Batters said people often didn’t realise that farmers provide habitats for wildlife and additional feeding for farmland birds during the winter months. This year’s survey was completed by farmers in every county of England – and across much of Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales. The average farm size taking part was 416ha (1,027 acres).

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Arable New hybrid wheat varieties set to benefit growers • Partnership involves two companies • Latest breeding methods employed • High-performance seed production

igher-yielding and more resilient hybrid wheat varieties are the goal of a new partnership between seed breeder RAGT and crop protection company Bayer. The two companies are pooling their strengths by combining soft wheat genetics with access to the latest breeding methodologies, high-performing seed production systems and advanced digital solutions. Wheat is the world’s most widely grown food crop. It provides about 20% of the protein consumed across the globe. More than 25m hectares of the crop are grown every year in the UK and European alone. Hybrid wheat is a cross between two, carefully selected, pure lines. Benefits from the hybrid vigour this produces can include increased tillering, rapid plant establishment and improved disease resistance.

Robustness Existing suppliers of hybrid wheat seed include Suffolk-based CropCo. The increased root mass, larger plant stem and thicker stem wall means hybrid wheat stands better – and has more consistent yields, it says. RAGT and Bayer say securing high-

er grain yields by developing hybrid wheat production systems built on more robust varieties will help UK farmers meet the increased demand for food from a rapidly growing world population. Both companies intend to advance the development of hybrid wheat technology to provide more innovative wheat varieties. And they say farmers as well as consumers stand to benefit from their collaboration. “Hybrid wheat offers farmers the opportunity to meet the challenges of climate change while achieving higher productivity in sustainable cropping systems,” says Bob Reiter, head of research and development at Bay-

er’s crop science division. Bayer scientists say the agreement is a natural fit between two partners with a long history. They say each possesses the complimentary innovation and digital capability needed to unlock the potential of wheat’s agronomic performance. “Together, we will bring an industry-leading hybrid wheat production system to our growers in Europe. This will also contribute to a more self-sufficient European food and feed production system.” RAGT general manager Laurent Guerreiro says the partnership could be a turning point for growers. Wheat yields have largely plateaued during recent decades. Yields improved rapidly, by an average of 0.10 t/ha per year from 1980 to 1996. But since then yields have stagnated despite the potential of new varieties increasing annually.

“

Hybrid wheat oﬀers growers the promise of higher productivity

Hybrid wheat is increasingly popular and offers many benefits.

Early forecast puts wheat harvest at 14.57 million tonnes

his year’s wheat harvest could reach 14.57Mt – well ahead of last year’s poor crop and 6.6% ahead of the five year average, suggest early estimates. But with tight production in 2020/21 and minimal carry out stocks, the Agriculture and Horticuilture Development Board says a crop this size would only go some way to fulfilling demand gor grain so imports will still be required. The forecast is based on the AHDB’s latest Crop Development Report. It is the first

8 ANGLIA FARMER • MAY 2021

indication of Great Britain’s wheat production and supply for the year 2021/22. It is based on the situation for winter and spring cropping to the end of March. AHDB analysts say demand for wheat next season is likely to be strong, with the return to bioethanol production at the Vivergo plant in Hull in 2022. With strong demand in the region from bioethanol, starch, milling and feed, the area is often in deficit. Wheat production the north of England is provisionally forecast at 2.57Mt, just 68Kt

ahead of average. The AHDB says production issues between now and harvest could see delivered premiums stretch to pull wheat north or drag in imported wheat. With this in mind, the AHDB says close attention should be paid to East Anglia and the East Midlands where production is forecast at 6.78Mt –- well above the 6.14Mt five year average. AHDB analysts say this could see wheat “pulled up country” if premiums for the crop extend in the north.

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Arable

‘Double trouble’ from flea beetle on oilseed rape • Weaker stems and higher lodging risk • Problem is often widely underestimated • Severe lodging reduces oil and yields

ilseed rape growers aiming to combat cabbage stem flea beetle should take action to ensure they don’t worsen the problem. Dual damage caused by flea beetle affects stem thickness and increases lodging risk, confirms research by ADAS. Growers can manage the problem – buy need to be careful when doing so. ADAS entomologist Fran Pickering shared her research results during a BASF Virtual Farm webinar. Flea beetle weakens plant stems, restricts growth and makes crops increasingly prone to lodging, she says.

Lodging is estimated to cost the oilseed rape sector £47-120m annually, according to ADAS figures. The problem is widely underestimated, says ADAS head of

Flea beetle weakens stems and encourage lodging, says Fran Pickering.

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crop physiology Pete Berry, who also spoke at the webinar.

New research Some growers have adapted their crop management to combat flea beetle. In doing so, they have inadvertently increased the potential of lodging – but with careful monitoring both scientists said they were confident the risk could be managed. “It’s long been assumed that flea beetle larvae and their activity affect stem strength,” acknowledged Ms Pickering. “But we wanted to know was by how much? Taking it one-step further, what impact does that have on lodging?” ADAS field trials took 50 plants at the end of flowering in May from two sites in East Anglia. The team assessed those

Lodging squashes leaves, reducing light capture and ultimately yields

plants’ stem diameter, breaking strength and the internal damage caused by the flea beetle. By assessing the percentage area of stem damaged, the plants were sorted into five categories. These ranged from plants with less than 5% damage (minimal) to plants with 76-100% of stem area damaged (severe). Ms Pickering says: “There

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was a clear trend showing thicker stems were stronger – this is not news. However, the results also showed that higher damage was associated with the thinner stems. But why?” The type of damage caused by flea beetle was predominantly mining and browning at the base of the stem. This type of damage restricts the take up of nutrients and water – which in turn restricts growth. “Plants taken from the second site revealed that for any given stem diameter, more damage makes stems weaker. The larval feeding restricts thickness of the stem and hollows stems, reducing their strength. “Even low levels of flea beetle damage significantly reduces stem strength,” says Ms Pickering. “On average stems with less than 25% damage were 29% weaker.”

Lodging impact An ADAS survey of over 2,000ha in 2012 showed that 35% of oil-

seed rape crops had lodged. Some 99% of fields had some lodging and more than 70% of the crop lodged in 20% of fields. In another experiment, ADAS researchers mimicked natural lodging in crops to assess the impact at harvest. Where crops lodged at 900 between flowering and early seed fill, nearly 50% of yield was lost. Where the crop was lodged at 45 degrees, about 20% of yield was lost. Even modest leaning at about 22 degrees reduced yield by 7-16%. Severe lodging also reduced oil content by up to 8%. Dr Berry says the reason behind this extreme loss was that any leaning or lodging squashed the leaves and the pods together. This impacted on light capture and efficiency of use, he adds. Growers can take numerous actions to minimise lodging, says Dr Berry. Farmers with large canopies should consider delaying or reducing the first nitrogen split – and using a plant growth regulator, he adds.

How management changes can increase lodging risk Oilseed rape grower Tim Hayward has changed how he grows oilseed rape to combat the impact of cabbage stem flea beetle. “Previously we were drilling after barley. We are a late farm so it would be first week of September before the oilseed rape was in the ground. In 2019 and 2020 we had dry spells in September.” That, together with the flea beetle damage, meant some crop failures. Today, Mr Hayward direct drills his rape into long wheat stubbles and pays much more attention to the forecast. Being on thin chalk soils with restricted yields, the farm hasn’t historically had a problem with lodging. But Mr Hayward has to be careful because conventional seed sown at higher rates and larvae damage mean crops are higher risk.

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Arable

Target yellow rust early this season

igh yellow rust levels mean growers who haven’t already done so should be prepared to protect wheat crops from the potentially devastating disease. “Advanced crops are much more susceptible to yellow rust infections because the dense canopies create the perfect environment for the pathogen to thrive,” says Andrew Wright, eastern region business manager for Hutchinsons. Rising temperatures mean there is no room for complacency when it comes to rust – especially on susceptible varieties. If rust isn’t controlled early on, it will continue to be a problem right up until flag leaf – having a significant impact on yield. “You have to be ready to deal with the disease,” says Mr Wright. “Most of the varieties grown this year have some susceptibility to yellow rust, but the ones to really watch are Graham, KWS Kerin and Gleam.” Early infections can be tackled at

T0 with a strobilurin-based product. If infections are still present at T1, Mr Wright advises following with a metconazole and fluxapyroxad based product, such as Wolverine from FMC.

Reduce resistance “This provides stacked actives with a different mode of action, helping to reduce resistance. It also has the added benefit of being easily tank mixed which will fit in well with growers plans to apply broadleaf weed control, PGRs and nutrition at the T1 timing.” The triazole + SDHI chemistry in Wolverine is also active against Septoria tritici – targeting both diseases at this critical timing. “By using this cost-effective option at T1, growers will also be able to save more expensive newer chemistry for T2. “Yellow rust is by far the most visible disease we’re seeing so far this year and without control it could wreak havoc on yields. This is why it is vital to nip infections in the bud early.”

Yellow rust on ﬂag leaves ultimately affects yields

New service reveals UK locations of yellow rust

new web-based service has been launched to help wheat growers and agronomists stay a step ahead of unpredictable yellow rust outbreaks. Rust locator 2021 – available at www.syngenta.co.uk/rust-locator-2021 – uses an interactive map to record the locations of yellow rust infections. It highlights the variety affected, its yellow rust resistance rating and drilling date. Having a regional picture of where infections are appearing gives growers and agronomists added information to help head off outbreaks before

they become more damaging, says Syngenta disease control specialist David Ranner (left). “Information for Rust Locator 2021 is provided by Syngenta field staff. But we’re also encouraging growers and agronomists around the country to submit their own yellow rust sightings, with a chance to win a branded Elatus Era tube scarf for those who do.” Yellow rust can cause yield losses of up to 50%. Mr Ranner says by having more people uploading ‘eyes-on-theground’ sightings, Syngenta wants Rust Locator 2021 to be for everyone’s benefit – helping protect yields.

“Like Septoria tritici, it is a disease that is better prevented, rather than trying to cure it once established. But we have seen over recent years how quickly infections can escalate, and how quickly variety resistance can decline.” Many varieties don’t have juvenile plant resistance to yellow rust, and adult plant resistance may not take effect until the middle of the season, says Mr Ranner. “Having an early warning that yellow rust is active underlines the need to manage it appropriately in your own crops.”

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Arable

Survey results boost marketing decisions

rowers are being encouraged to complete this year’s annual survey to provide the earliest view of Great Britain’s planted area for the upcoming harvest. Organised by the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board, the planting and variety survey will estimate the area of wheat, barley, oats and oilseed rape intended for harvest in 2021 in Great Britain. The AHDB says the survey aims to accurately quantify the harvested area of cereals and oilseed rape. It says the results can help all levy payers make better informed grain marketing decisions. The information can be used to shape the domestic market and trade. It details regional cropping differences – and can help plant breeders as they develop new plant varieties. George Mason, senior executive at Heygates mills, said: “We seem to have

entered a period where UK wheat crop dynamics have become a little more unpredictable.

Appraisal “It is imperative that all those involved with grains have an accurate and timely appraisal of what is developing across the entire country. They will then be in a position of knowledge and can lead on the correct and appropriate trading decisions. “As individuals we have little chance to obtain such information and so the data provided by the AHDB via the planting and variety survey is invaluable.” Robin Appel trading director Jonathan Arnold said: “Our island status and size of population mean forward planning to meet demand is more important. It is very much in growers’ interests to ensure domestic demand is met by crops grown here in the UK.”

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Once completed, results from the AHDB survey will be made publicly available to growers in July

To complete the survey – at springplanting.ahdb.org.uk – growers simply provide the area harvested in 2020, their intended harvest area for 2021 and the variety of each crop listed. Results will be available in July.

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Arable

Biological seed treatment on linseed approved

iological seed treatment Integral Pro has been granted approval for linseed – helping farmers to achieve premiums. The extension of authorisation of minor use (EAMU) registration for the BASF product will make it easier for growers to meet seed certification standards by reducing levels of seed borne disease, says the company. Integral Pro enhances crop establishment by boosting plant health, improving its defences and allowing crops to get away faster, says BASF market manager Sarah Middleton.

Linseed has become a popular alternative to oilseed rape

‘Useful tool’ “With no chemical seed treatment options available, the use of biologicals such as this is an extremely useful tool to have, and the approved extension to use in linseed will be welcomed by both growers and processors.” Trials by linseed specialist Premium Crops have shown the applying Integral Pro to both yellow and brown crop types can decrease seed borne infections from 20% to below 5% – allowing for certification. On average, almost half of all seed crops sub-

mitted for certification fail. The most frequently observed seed borne pathogen species are Botrytis and Fusarium – causing mould on seeds and seedling, reducing germination and killing the plant.

Reducing risk Premium Crops seed production manager Nigel Padbury says Botrytis and Fusarium species are widely found in the environment – common across years and geographic areas. “The difficulty that we have is that the occurrence of the disease is so erratic, growers do not know if or when their crops will be affected. This is compounded by the fact that there is no field test available, only a two week lab based test.” Mr Padbury adds: “Using Integral Pro will help our linseed growers achieve their premiums by significantly reducing the biggest risk to the crop and ensure quality seed to meet the ever increasing demand.” The area of winter linseed grown increased threefold last year alone, as farmers sought an alternative break crop to winter oilseed rape.

Secure Your Grain Store with Lodi’s Phobi Smoke Pro 90C+ Protect against losses caused by grain store pests As yields and prices remain volatile, it is more important than ever to protect your crops in store. Worldwide, up to 60% of grain is lost during storage but this can be as low as 1% with the right store and a good pre- and postharvest routine. Grain store pests can be a source of grain loss in storage. The ideal grain store should be clean, dry, well-ventilated, rodent-proof and watertight. The first step to ensure safe long-term storage is to make sure that the store is clean. It is especially important to focus on the hard-to-reach areas such as the roof, handling equipment and under the floor. Insects can be present, even in seemingly empty stores as grain or grain dust from the previous harvest can provide a food source.

Once clean, spray the fabric of the building with K-Obiol EC or another grain protectant which will help to control any grain store pests that may be present. When the inside of the building is covered, we recommend using a smoke disinfectant, such as Lodi’s Phobi Smoke Pro 90C+. Smoke insecticides help to target the nooks and crannies of the grain store where the spray can't touch. The smoke forms part of a successful treatment plan for full and targeted control of grain store pests. Phobi Smoke Pro 90C+ is simple to use and 100% effective against a wide range of pests, including Grain Weevils & Saw-Toothed Grain Beetles. Simply light the wick and leave the smoke to work its’ way through the entire building. Each tin contains enough product to cover 600m3.

For more information on the Phobi Smoke Pro 90C+, visit www.lodi-uk.com or email contact@lodi-uk.com

16 ANGLIA FARMER • MAY 2021

AGRONOMY INSIGHTS Wheat and winter barley crops are currently at a wide range of growth stages. Many winter feed wheat crops have now had at least two fertiliser applications whilst the nitrogen programme for hybrid barley will be approaching completion. In higher risk situations, higher levels of disease, especially Septoria tritici and Yellow Rust, have been reported in wheat and higher levels of

disease, especially brown rust and net blotch, have been reported in winter barley. Early drilled crops, more susceptible or moderately resistant varieties and fields with spring barley volunteers can all increase disease risk. Below are the key agronomy tips for feed wheat varieties and hybrid winter barley right now from Syngenta.

KEY AGRONOMY FOR WHEAT • For feed wheat apply remaining split doses of nitrogen to optimise yield

• Assess risk factors to determine requirement for growth regulation, such as MODDUS at GS31/32

• Monitor disease levels in crops and determine fungicide requirements. The T1 fungicide should focus on targeting final leaf 3

• Prioritise growth regulation on higher risk crops and varieties (e.g. early drilled, high biomass)

• If Yellow Rust is primary target, utilise best available chemistry at T1 with ELATUS Era

• Variety: a programmed approach reduces the risk for varieties which are more prone to lodging

WINTER WHEAT PGR ADVICE Timing

Apply

Target

GS 30

MODDUS 0.1-0.2 l/ha +/- chlormequat*

Promotes root foundation and tiller survival. Key in second wheat situations.

GS 31-32

MODDUS 0.1-0.2 l/ha +/- chlormequat*

Increased stem strength and thickening. Height reduction.

GS 37-39

Ethephon-based product*

Reduce height and centre of gravity in high lodging risk situations.

Adjust rates according to risk. Apply to actively growing crops. *Chlormequat at ~50% dose rate. Various products and formulations exist. Please consult a BASIS qualified advisor. Rates dependent on situation, ask your agronomist for advice. Risk is dependent upon several factors including variety, soil fertility, seed rate and drilling timing.

KEY AGRONOMY FOR HYBRID BARLEY • Complete the nitrogen application programme • Avoid late nitrogen applications (which increase the risk of secondary tillering)

• Variety: a programmed approach reduces the risk for varieties which are more prone to lodging

• Assess requirement for early season growth regulation, such as MODDUS, at GS30 and GS 31-32

• Monitor disease levels in crops and apply appropriate fungicides, such as ELATUS Era at either T1 or T2, to control disease

• Prioritise early-season growth regulation for higher risk crops and varieties (e.g. late-drilled)

• Be aware that crops have typically reached only half of their final height by GS39

HYBRID BARLEY PGR ADVICE Timing

Apply

Target

T0 (GS30)

MODDUS 0.1-0.2 l/ha +/- chlormequat*

Foundation: Promotes rooting, strengthens tillers & reduces height

T1 (GS31-32)

MODDUS 0.1-0.2 l/ha +/- chlormequat*

Stem: Strengthens tillers & reduces height

T2 (GS37-39)

Ethephon-based product**

Centre of gravity: Reduces height, brackling & lodging

Prioritise higher risk crops and varieties. *Chlormequat at approx. 50% dose rate; various products and formulations exist ** Avoid applications after GS39 (especially high risk if the leaf sheath has split and the ear is visible). Please consult a BASIS qualified advisor for specific advice for each field.

FIND OUR MORE AT SYNGENTA.CO.UK

T @SYNGENTACROPSUK

Syngenta UK Ltd. Registered in England No. 849037. CPC4, Capital Park, Fulbourn, Cambridge CB21 5XE Tel: 01223 883400 Fax: 01223 882195 Technical Enquiries Tel: 0800 169 6058 Email: customer.services@syngenta.com Website: www.syngenta.co.uk MODDUS® (MAPP 15151) contains trinexapac-ethyl and ELATUSTM Era (MAPP 17889) contains benzovindiflupyr and prothioconazole, and are Registered Trademarks of a Syngenta Group Company. Use plant protection products safely. Always read the label and product information before use. For further product information including warning phrases and symbols refer to www.syngenta.co.uk ©Syngenta AG April 2021.

Arable

Understanding biostimulants can hold key to best results this spring

iostimulants can benefit wheat Root signals yields if the correct product is “Wheat plants generally want to applied at the optimum time, throw off 40% of their tillers between according to work by agronomy firm growth stage 30 and 31 as they sort Hutchinsons. out what can be supported through Trials over several years show phos- to harvest. phite-based biostimulants – such as “Signals from the roots indicating Phorce and Advance 66 – can be par- the availability of nutrients play a ticularly beneficial for improving till- key role in this process, so if we can er retention in winter wheat, provid- increase root mass and the plant’s ing they are applied early enough in ability to extract soil nutrients, then the season. they will retain more tillers. More Hutchinsons technical manager tillers clearly leads to more grain at Dick Neale says this is because phos- harvest.” phites effectively “trick” root tips into In Hutchinsons trials, two apthinking they are short of phosphate, plications of Phorce – in auwhich in turn stimulates an increase tumn and at GS 30 – gave in lateral root development. a yield benefit of 0.5t/ha For this to have a beneficial effect over the untreated. Once on yield, phosphites must be applied in wheat is beyond GS 31, time to build root mass before plants a phosphite-based bistart to shed tillers, so autumn and ostimulant has litGS 30 are the best timings, explains tle or no effect beMr Neale.DB_March_Ad_FV02.pdf 1 21/03/2021 cause plants have 21:49

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Phosphites must be applied in time to build root mass, says Dick Neale

dropped tillers by this point. Growers should therefore always use growth stage to determine application timing for biostimulants, rather than going by fungicide timings, says Mr Neale. If the T1 fungicide timing is used as the cut-off, for example, this will be too late for biostimulants to work effectively. This is because many T1s are applied at GS 32, by which time tillers will have been lost.

Health benefits “You’ve got to understand how biostimulants are impacting on the plant. All too often, the reason they don’t work is because people have applied the wrong product at the wrong time.” Plants with strong root systems and a better ability to take up nutrients are likely to be healthier and more resilient to stress, foliar diseases, and lodging, Mr Neale says.

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Arable

Independent cereal breeder launches new website

new website has been launched to highlight the range of cereal varieties offered by independent breeder Angus Wheat Consultants. Headed by wheat breeder Bill Angus, the website currently focuses on winter and spring wheat and oats. The company’s objectives include increasing on-farm wheat yields while maintaining quality and optimising inputs. “We felt that it was important for wheat breeding to have a strong UK-owned breeder in the marketplace – and we could see gaps in wheat variety development we could fill,” explains Mr Angus.

First varieties Winter wheats Mv Fredericia and Garibaldi are the first varieties under the company’s F1 Seeds banner. An oat breeding programme is under way with higher yielding and better quality varieties currently in the national list system. “Mv Fredericia exemplifies part of our philosophy,” says Mr Angus. “We could see the

variety playing a strategic role on farm with its competitive strength in black grass control. In addition, its quality made it an attractive variety for a major end user. “For the future, our winter wheat breeding programme is now mature with a comprehensive set of selection nurseries and trials at our main site in Suffolk, as well as in other key UK cereal growing regions.”

Big potential The company’s Global Oats UK breeding programme came about when Mr Angus met a former colleague who set up a similar initiative in New Zealand. The two breeders now collaborate on new oat varieties for the southern and northern hemispheres. The crop has big potential for the UK, says Mr Angus. “Oats are seen by many as a low input crop, but this is not so – it is a crop which responds to good agronomy. With a targeted input strategy, yield and quality can be realised.” Looking into the future, Mr Angus says the UK has some of the best growers, the best

Yields and margins are key objectives, says wheat breeder Bill Angus

environment and some of the world’s most competitive wheat breeders – bringing in a range of genetics to meet the needs of growers and end users.

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Sprayers

Simple spraying guidelines for better disease control • Checklist improves application techniques • Optimum timing remains primary objective • Reduced water volume boosts work rates

simple application checklist ahead of key disease control programmes can deliver sizeable improvements in product performance and yield. As well as providing a better return on investment, keeping on top of disease will minimise the need for curative activity. It reduces selection for pathogen resistance and helps to maintain the efficacy of today’s limited fungicide armoury. “Agrovista has carried out many trials over several years at the important T1 and T2 timings where yellow rust was the main pathogen,” says the company’s technical manager Mark Hemmant. “These trials clearly demonstrate the importance of correct application techniques. By following a few simple guidelines, growers can significantly improve control for very little outlay and effort.” Good timing remains key and should be the primary aim, as any slippage can have a big impact on yield. A week late at T2 (GS37-39) can cause yield potential to fall away by as much as 0.5-1t/ ha, and by much more as the delay increases, says Mr Hemmant.

Boom height Boom height has a major effect on application accuracy. “Apart from bad timing, this is probably the biggest cause of poor fungicide performance. The optimum boom height is 0.5m above the crop. Doubling it typically increases drift by a factor of 10 with flat fan nozzles.” Water volume Using a water volume of 100 litres/ ha delivered better disease control in

wheat than 200 litres/ha, according to results from 13 Agrovista trials. On average, the lower volume delivered 0.2t/ha more yield, although even under high disease pressure we saw yields rise by up to 0.53t/ha. The finer spray improved coverage and each droplet contains more active ingredient. “Halving the water volume also reduces travelling and filling downtime, potentially increasing work rates by a third,” says Mr Hemmant. “This means more crop can be treated at the optimum timing.” On rare occasions under very high Septoria pressure, the higher volume worked better than the lower one. This is worth bearing in mind where disease is establishing on the upper leaves which are critical in delivering yield.

Nozzle type Standard 110-degree flat fan nozzles (F110-03) are the best option when applying fungicides to wheat, delivering an effective droplet spectrum that ensures good coverage and penetration at 100-200 litres/ha. “Flat fans were consistently more effective when used with triazole/SDHI treatments in normal spraying conditions, producing an average yield increase of 0.29t/ha over air induction (BBJ-03) nozzles across 16 trials over five years. We also found that BBJs produced 0.23t/ha more yield than GuardianAir 03s.” Nozzle angling Alternating forward-facing (30-degree) and vertical nozzles along the boom improves spray performance, aiding coverage and penetration. The technique also reduces drift, allowing air to pass through the spray

Doubling boom height can increase drift by a factor of 10, says Mark Hemmant Below: Agrovista has tested different application techniques over many years

“

Growers can significantly improve control for little outlay

curtain, reducing the tendency to create eddies behind it. Alternating the angle of flat fans as above produced a 0.46t/ha uplift in four wheat trials compared with a conventional downward set-up; the difference with air inclusion nozzles was 0.23t/ha over 16 trials. “This work clearly shows the benefit of angling nozzles, but poses a dilemma for nozzle choice. While it shows flat fans give better performance, air inclusion nozzles are less prone to drift, which may allow growers to time fungicides better in marginal conditions. “The use of air inclusion nozzles may also be a label requirement for some products when applied close to water.”

Applications aids Agrovista has investigated the use of application aids to provide practical solutions for these dilemmas. Adding Velocity to the tank mix delivers better product performance with any nozzle, improving droplet structure to aid penetration and spread on the leaf. “Velocity is particularly beneficial when using air inclusion nozzles, taking performance to levels near those achieved by flat fans. This enables growers to get the job done without having to sacrifice efficacy and yield from using a ‘poorer’ air inclusion nozzle. Over 17 trials, adding Velocity produced an average yield uplift of 0.45t/ ha compared with no application aid when using air inclusion nozzles.

MAY 2021 • ANGLIA FARMER 23

Sprayers Accurtae information means a better result, says Dan Wormell

Precision decision aims to optimise arable margins • • •

Variable inputs save time and money Goal to secure return on investment Technology can future-proof business

chieving even greater precision is a key goal for Daniel Wormell, who farms 600ha of arable land at Langenhoe, Essex. The family-run business – PR Wormell Farms crops some 550ha near the Colne estuary, with the rest under environmental schemes. Milling wheat is the primary crop in a rotation with winter beans, linseed and grain maize. Mr Wormell already applies seed and fertiliser variably. But he wants to go further – ultimately applying all inputs in the same way. The reason for that is because he sees significant change ahead. “The direction we are heading looks clear. In the future it is likely all farms will be cropping a smaller area than they do now. Also, we will be more accountable – any input will need to be targeted and justifiable.”

Maximising potential How much will be cropped in the future 24 ANGLIA FARMER • MAY 2021

remains to be seen. But whatever the area, Mr Wormell knows it must still deliver a profit. His focus is on maximising the potential of every cropped area – but doing so in more austere regulatory environment. Nowhere will this be more keenly felt as in East Anglia. The area one of the UK’s most productive for crop production – and it is incredibly habitat diverse. This means there can be competing interests when it comes to land management. With wetlands, shore, woodland and heaths, Essex, Suffolk and Norfolk have close to 400 sites of special scientific interest (SSSIs) alone. Before Covid, tourism generated £10bn to the East Anglia economy – a good part of that through nature tourism. Genetics is clearly part of the solution. So is a more prescriptive agronomic approach but that can only be done with accurate field data. That was the driver for Mr Wormell trialling Bayer’s digital platform Climate FieldView.

Fewer inputs “Genetics is already playing a part,” he explains. “Group 2 varieties like Extase with good inherent disease profiles aren’t currently an option for us but it offers others the opportunity to reduce fungicide use.” There are hardware limitations –

“

In future, any input will need to be targeted and justifiable

but technology will play a big part in reducing fungicides too. “The future isn’t refining fungicide strategy by variety but by field – adjusting rates based on plant biomass and disease pressure.” “At the moment variable application is somewhat limited by machine boom width removing the ability to vary rates across it. This reduces our capacity to fully tailor crop needs but the ability to apply variable rates to very defined areas of a field is not far away.” Mr Wormell was an early adopter of technology and quickly supplied iPads to the PR Wormell farm team so all operations could be logged in Gatekeeper efficiently. This saved time – but more importantly eliminated data entry errors. But FieldView goes a step further, especially with the need to optimise every acre of cropped land. A key attraction is the ease with which yield results can be precisely overlayed with a raft of agronomic data, particularly variable rate applications.

Precision farming “We can look at any part of the field with FieldView, even down to really small field areas. It is going to make the process of evaluating detailed precision farming strategies simpler and more comprehensive. “Future-proofing our business can continued on p26

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MAY 2021 • ANGLIA FARMER 25

Sprayers continued from p24 only come about by performance gains across all parts of the farm. Genetics is one route to improving yields throughout a field but so is data to fine tune agronomic strategies across a field accordingly,” he notes. With a smaller cropping area, some field areas might come out of production completely. FieldView will allow Mr Wormell to build up a picture of field performance over several seasons and identify the most appropriate parts to be taken out of cropping. He also feels it might help with more basic decisions. He likes the ability to specify variety and is looking forward to see how winter bean varieties Tundra and Wizard perform. “It was more accident than design but we’ve ended up with a field containing both varieties. Of course, we’ll be able to compare the two when we see the data coming in from the combine.”

Crop management “It will be interesting to see how both varieties perform. Another benefit with FieldView is if I have my tablet with me, I know which variety I’m looking at when crop walking, and can see histor-

FieldViewscreenshot

ic drilling or application information.” It also provides an alternative to tractor telematics, with the added benefit of seeing application rates in the field. And that data is realtime and accessible anytime, anywhere, useful with the more fluid and mobile lifestyle of today. “Like others, Covid means my two boys have been home schooling but I can get realtime data when away from the business.” Mr Wormell admits that he hasn’t

“

Data is realtime and accessible anytime

used all the functionality within of FieldView but it is early days. Hopefully this season he will get to use some of the suite of Field Health tools and he recognises that variations in biomass could be an early indication of a problem. “My focus to-date has been around yield variation across the field, particularly those field areas that could be costing us money. But as I get more experience so my use of the platform will increase.”

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ESTATE MANAGER, HERTFORDSHIRE We are looking to engage an Estate Manager for this varied and interesting job leading a small but very capable team as well as co-ordinating long-standing contractors. The Estate comprises 1,000 acres (400ha), includes ancient woodland as well as grade II listed buildings. This family-owned business has a short-term contract farming agreement in place for arable land however there is much to do in woodland management and commercial operations. The job includes day to day management of the estate, primarily co-ordinating commercial and faming activities, there are 10 rented houses, workshops, a commercial storage business, comprising of self-store units, caravans/boats and motorhomes with some classic cars. Security of the commercial areas and wider estate is an important element of the position. This role offers lots of variety with real opportunity to develop the business. You will be central to the growth of the existing business whilst supporting the creation of new revenue streams. You will need a focus on delivering great services to our clients, operational cost control and health & safety. You will be a great communicator, able to interact with clients, agents and contractors at varying levels. We are looking for a keen, honest and reliable person with a clean drivers’ license. Accommodation in rural location with excellent broadband is available. References are essential. Great salary according to experience/qualifications.

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Cereals 2021 Full steam ahead as exhibitors prepare to welcome visitors • Latest technology on show • Crop plots all in good shape • Workshops and seminars

inal touches are being put to this year’s Cereals event, which is due to take place on 30 June and 1 July at Boothby Graffoe, Lincolnshire. The rescheduled event was moved to an end of June start date to accommodate the maximum number of exhibitors and visitors. It follows confirmation of the government’s coronavirus lockdown exit strategy. “Speaking with exhibitors and visitors, we looked at the choice of having a restricted event in early June or moving the date and potentially having no restrictions, and the majority opted for the latter,” says event organiser Alli McEntyre. “We wanted to act quickly in making this decision to give everyone certainty so they can plan ahead. This is a really positive move for visitors, exhibitors and the event, as it will maximise the opportunities for all without lockdown restrictions in place.”

Full programme The event will retain the same format, explains Ms McEntyre. This means visitors can still expect to see a large host of exhibitors, live demonstrations and attend a full seminar programme, she adds. “Though the government is targeting a full lifting of lockdown restrictions before the new date, we are still planning on prioritising visitor

safety and will be taking all necessary precautions, while allowing visitors to enjoy the entire event experience.” Ms McEntyre adds: “We realise the change of date may not slot into everyone’s schedule, however, moving it to a later date will allow the maximum number of visitors to get the most from the event.” A key feature, the crop plots will present visitors with a chance to see the latest varieties from a range of breeders. This makes it important to showcase them in the best condition – although the British weather can present some challenges (see panel).

Special features Other features will include the Syngenta Sprays & Sprayers arena, Isuzu driving course, NIAB soil pit, drainage area and drone zone. A series of demonstrations will include cover crop drilling and inter-row weeding. “There is so much new and innovative technology available and agriculture is advancing continually; it’s important to keep abreast of it as it could revolutionise the way you run your business,” says Ms McEntyre. Nutrition will be one key area in the spotlight as growers consider where improvements can be made. Micronutrients in particular can easily fall under the radar – and yields can suffer as a result, especially where leaching occurs. A recent Yara survey found boron deficiency is often an issue. Some 86% of tissue samples tested in 2019 were deficient in boron – affecting the number of grains per ear, with crops unable to achieve their yield potential.

The year’s Cereals event will be the first in two years

Showcase crops are ‘in strong shape’

rop plots at this year’s Cereals site over-wintered well and are in strong shape ahead of the event, say organisers. “Our team have put all their efforts into establishing and caring for the crop plots so that visitors can see the latest breeding developments and crop protection methods in person,” says event organiser Alli McEntyre.

Well-established Crops have been through a cold spring but all the plots have come through and are looking well, according to Shaun Coleman, centre manager at NIAB, who is managing the Cereals site. “They went into winter looking fairly healthy and well established and we had no issues other than a little bit of mouse damage – something we don’t usually see. We also had an issue keeping rooks off in the late autumn-sown crops but that is normal.” Oilseed rape plots withstood winter snow and frost well and were protected against pigeons, says Peter Brumpton, site agronomist and member of the Association of Independent Crop Consultants. Pests and disease The cold snap helped tone down any yellow rust issues in winter wheat. “It’s taken the pressure off,” says Mr Brumpton. “There are no great issues with disease in cereals at this stage and we aren’t needing to put any fungicides on.” As well as winter crops, the plots include spring barley, spring wheat, spring oilseed rape, linseed, peas and beans – as well as some niche crops. The plots also allow visitors to explore different pest and disease control options. Ms McEntyre says: “There’s no substitute for examining the physical plots and discussing variety choices and management options with the experts. After over a year of lockdown this is a great chance for farmers to get back out.”

MAY 2021 • ANGLIA FARMER 29

Cereals 2021

Experts at Cereals show way to maximise soil potential

xperts at Cereals will be on hand to help growers get the most from their soils – in a special series of seminars which aim to maximise its potential. Seminars during the second day of the event will focus exclusively on soil – covering everything from research into the microbiome to drainage, regenerative farming, and carbon measurement tools. “Healthy soils equate to healthy profits – both from crop production and the trading of natural capital,” explains event organiser Alli McEntyre. “We want to give visitors the latest information and practical tools from researchers, scientists and award-winning farmers.” Visitors will be able to get beneath the ground to examine soil structure in the NIAB Soil Pit. And the latest advice regarding water management in relation to soil will be available in a new drainage demonstration area. When growing crops, soil health is at the start of everything, says Vaughn

Stansfield, UK manager of seminar sponsor UPL. “It’s the foundation upon everything we do and yet it can be the most limiting factor in the chain of crop production when neglected.” UPL is putting sustainability clearly on the agenda. “As an industry and globally, we are looking to move forward in a sustainable manner, but it needs to be done profitably, and these two things aren’t mutually exclusive,” explains Mr Improvements CEO at LEAF. “We cannot just look at to soil Stansfield. policy to drive this change – first and But focusing on soil health isn’t just structure bring foremost there needs to be control of this about growing better crops. Changes to business and from a business perspective.” farm support and the evolution of car- environmental Farmers who want to seize these bon offsetting schemes to combat cli- benefits opportunities should start by reviewmate change means soil health poses ing the past two harvests, says George multiple opportunities to farmers. Badger, partner at consultants Ceres The Linking Environment and Rural. This should include an assessFarming charity – LEAF – has been ment of business performance – as well working to deliver a profitable and sus- Soil health as cropping. tainable farmed environment for more is the “All farmers acknowledge there is ads.qxp_Layout 09:06 Pageroom 16 for improvement in their busithan 30 years. There are an increasing1 16/05/2019 foundation number of nature-based opportunities ness, and our advice is to focus on imof everything proving soils and their resilience over for farmers, it says. “Nature is core in driving improved we do the next five years and beyond,” exsoil health,” says Caroline Drummond, plains Mr Badger.

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Host farmer for Cereals has plans for further expansion • Finance remains important for farming • Goal to increase contracting business • Aim is to reduce overheads and costs

ereals host farmer Alastair Priestley believes a good head for figures is vital when it comes to running a successful farm business. Mr Priestley grew up less than 20 miles from Boothby Graffoe, Lincolnshire, where he is now managing director of Patrick Dean Farms and Aubourn Farming. He studied agriculture at Newcastle university and took accountancy qualifications afterwards. “It might not be the normal route,” he explains. “But I wouldn’t have this job had I not done accountancy. Looking back now, it’s the best thing I could

have done. And as much as I like being out in the field farming, the figures are as important as the farming.” Patrick Dean Farms has grown significantly since Mr Priestley started 15 years ago. The cropping area has increased and the business now employs 30 staff. It has recently taken a major stake in Aubourn Farming which farms around 3,237ha.

Farm enterprises Highly mechanised – but efficiently so – the two businesses run a Case Quadtrac, Cat Challenger, 8m Vaderstad drill, two

36m Bateman sprayers, two JCB Fastracs, six John Deere tractors and a Fendt 942. An extensive range of crops are grown. In addition, there are areas of fallow land, environmental stewardship and land which is rented out. Soil varies from easy working light limestone heath land and a more bodied, heavier type in the Witham valley. Enterprises currently include about 1400ha of winter wheat, 400ha of sugar beet, 300ha of spring barley, 280ha of potatoes, 275ha of poppy seeds for the culinary market, 120ha of beans, 120ha of oats, 40ha of peas and 40ha of oilseed rape. Mr Priestley’s next focus is to expand the contracting side of the business to reduce overheads and to drive down costs of production to mitigate the gradual phasing

Alastair Priestley plans to expand the contracting side of his business.

out of Basic Payments. “We are looking at what to do next and want to grow our client base by continually adopting new and innovative technologies,” he says. Variety is what he enjoys most. The Cereals site itself is kept in a rotation of wheat and grass. Once the wheat has been harvested it is ploughed and put into grass. But the trial plot area for Cereals is managed by the event organisers and their partners.

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This year in particular, the big draw to Cereals will be the opportunity for farmers to get off their own land and meet other people after lockdown, says Mr Priestley. “It’s good to get out there, exchange ideas and learn what others are doing and why. “The networking is personally why I like to go. When wandering around an event, subconsciously you’re taking things on board through chatting to people – you pick up ideas far more than you realise.” The site – in a field on a former RAF base – is free draining with good access and a concrete perimeter track. It makes it easier for visitors to drive in and out – including when the weather is wet, as it was during 2019. “We don’t own much of the perimeter track but are able to collaborate with other local farmers who own the rest of it to enable the event to happen. We’ve been hosting it since 2011, so we know the site works.” Comexposium knows the site works too and so do the police, adds Mr Priestley. “We like hosting the event; it’s great to have demonstrations on our farm as ultimately we all want to see how a piece of kit works on our own land.”

Cereals site was Cold War rocket launchpad The Cereals event site was once an RAF bomber command base – with intermediate range ballistic weapons on high alert during the 1962 Cuban missile crisis. RAF Coleby Grange opened in 1939 – and the original control tower still stands and can be seen from the Cereals showground. The base operated as a fighter airfield during World War Two before reopening as a missile facility in 1959. The base’s Thor missiles were put on maximum alert and readiness for 10 days during autumn 1962. They were placed in a vertical phased-hold position just minutes from launch until a stand-down was reached by both sides in the Cold War. During its operational life, the airbase used three grass runways. It closed in 1963 and the land returned to agricultural use. A small number of buildings remain – as does the concrete perimeter which is now used as a farm track. Right: A Thor missile of the type stationed at RAF Coleby Grange

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Cereals 2021

Pedestal fan systems increasingly popular for cooling grain Pedestal fan systems are increasingly becoming a way to ensure crops cool down and stay pestfree post-harvest, say manufacturers. Portable fans are environmentally conscious, cheap to run and easy to move around, say suppliers Gibbons Agricultural. The company’s Plug&Cool system – a simple plug and play kit – requires no specialist knowledge, controls or wiring. They work by monitoring the differential temperature of the grain pile with the ambient air, with no need to be running a fan and turning it on and off manually. The fan is placed on the pedestal and plugged into the panel – which is then plugged into the wall. Manufactured in their UK warehouse, the new pedestals have an impressive range of specifications. Built to make life easier they have standardised perforations. This keeps the air flowing equally and makes for more effective crop conditioning. Perforations are 125mm x 3.5mm – large enough that the air flows out smoothly, but not blocked by grain. The polypropylene is hard wearing, super thick and sturdy, so there is no chance of rusting or buckling.

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Low energy input makes Evolution fan ideal choice Launched originally in 2011, the Evolution fan from Evans & Pearce has since proven itself a popular choice for pedestal ventilation. The integral controller means the unit arrives with its automation in place, with no additional electrician or controller costs. It uses 70% less power than an 1.1kw fan. Motor longevity has been outstanding, with only one failure out of the 800 sold. Evans & Pearce says it expects another surge in interest as the low energy input attracts people’s attention. Conventional fans for pedestals usually use a 1100 watt motor, capable of ventilating about 250 tonnes per unit. The Evolution Fan uses a brushless 350 watt motor to ventilate the same tonnage, which it says is more efficient. Brushless motor technology reduces mechanical energy loss when driving the motor. The backward curved impeller has lower energy demands, compared to the forward curved type commonly used in portable grain cooling fans.

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Cereals 2021

Drone app speeds up crop-walking

gricultural software pioneer Drone Ag will demonstrate its crop scouting mobile app Skippy Scout live at Cereals for the first time. “Our aim is to illustrate how Skippy Scout has made using drones easy – and how it can help farmers to reduce the time it takes to walk crops,” says Drone Ag founder Jack Wrangham. Drone Ag released a new version of Skippy Scout earlier this year. Version 2.5 is ten times faster at crop walking than conventional methods, enabling users to cover up to 10ha in just five minutes. Farmers can plot scouting points for a drone to fly to and take images by importing field maps to a mobile phone or tablet. High resolution images are then relayed from the drone to the app in real time. The app then interprets the images – generating PDF reports with indicators denoting green area index (GAI), healthy and unhealthy crop cover percentage, weed percentage, and insect damage. “We hope that by demonstrating how easy using Skippy Scout we can encourage farmers and agronomists to embrace the technology and consider drones a useful farm tool, rather than future technology,” says Mr Wrangham. The Skippy is available for only £30 a month. Drone Ag is exhibiting at stand 732 at the Cereals event.

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Cereals 2021

Special monitoring system checks grain moisture • Remotely monitors moisture content • Results can be sent mobile devices • Text alerts when limits are reached

special monitoring system is helping farmers and grain store operators automatically check the moisture content of wet grain as it enters storage. The Moisture Monitoring System is capable of emailing moisture content details to any mobile device – as well as sending text alerts if pre-defined limits are reached, says Andrew Head, managing director of manufacturer BDC Systems. “Since our MMS became commercially available in 2019 it has been extremely well received. These latest developments meet the increasing demand for real-time information to be remotely delivered to farmers and grain store operators.” Pre-configured timings for delivering screen shots from the control panel to any mobile device, mean no-one needs to be on hand at the grain plant to manually check levels and make any necessary adjustments.

Time and money This saves time as well as money – and means labour can be reassigned to other tasks which generate revenue, says Mr Head. The system will be showcased at this year’s Cereals event in Lincolnshire. “The ability to remotely adjust grain dryer settings enables farmers/ grain store operators to be confident that the dryer is optimised to ensure

that grain enters storage at the right mc which ultimately leads to a significant decrease in energy costs.” The system can be pre-configured to automatically send text alerts should moisture content fall below pre-defined maximum and minimum levels. Any necessary adjustments can be made remotely to restore moisture to required levels. After spending several years researching and developing the Moisture Monitoring System, it is now operational on seven arable farms – with a further three systems in the process of being installed for harvest 2021 Using bespoke sampling units designed and developed by BDC, the system takes grain from incoming (wet) and outgoing (dry) elevators. These samples are then processed through a multi-chamber duct incorporating a moisture probe. Live readings showing the moisture percentage of both samples are displayed on the control panel’s screen together with a graph showing the moisture trend. Historical data is stored in the control panel’s memory for future reference. The system can be monitored

The Moisture Monitoring System has been well-received by growers Left: The system is now operational on seven farms, says Andrew Head

directly from the control panels of all new BDC’s grain dryers. But anyone wanting to deploy the system with an existing drying system will require a stand-alone control panel. “BDC is continuing to develop the system’s features and functionality to make sure that it delivers exactly what our customers need,” says Mr Head. “We will be showcasing the system on stand 921 at Cereals 2021 at the end of June – and look forward to demonstrating to visitors how it can help make harvests now, and in the future, as productive and efficient as possible.”

Grain storage specialists extend partnership BDC Systems and Essex-based Gibbons Agricultural have extended their partnership so the two companies can their services to more farmers. BDC has been successfully selling high-performance grain cooling fans made by Gibbons across southern England for more than 20 years. Now BDC will represent Gibbons in Scotland too. The Gibbons Plug&Cool system is de-

signed to make grain conditioning easier for farmers. It includes pedestals, ventilation towers and automatic fan controls – and delivers a complete grain cooling package for farmers. The Gibbons Airspear works alongside the Plug&Cool Pedestal to help cool hotspots in grain piles; and the Plug&Cool wireless differential temperature control panel range supports grain store fans.

Not being limited to offering products from one manufacturer means BDC is able to give farmers a grain handling solution that exactly meet their requirements, says BDC managing director Andrew Head. “Farmers are already benefiting and will continue to benefit from deploying the Plug&Cool system. BDC is confident that Scottish farmers will quickly see just how Plug&Cool can cool their grain too.” MAY 2021 • ANGLIA FARMER 39

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Livestock Pig and Poultry forums go online for 2021 • Focus on improving performance • Productivity key across both sectors • How to comply with regulations

xpert advice for pig and poultry producers will be available online this month to help farmers plan ahead for their businesses. The decision follows the cancellation of this year’s British Pig & Poultry Fair due to the coronavirus pandemic. The technical forums are the highlight of the biennial event – and will still take place as a series of online seminars. “The fair is known as the place to find ideas,” says event organiser Alice Bell. “While we can’t meet in person, we will be bringing a line up of top speakers and leading advice to your screens – at home – on 12 May.”

Improving performance Partnered by sponsors ABN, the programme for the day will include outlooks for the pig, poultry meat and egg sectors. Technical sessions will include advice from AHDB experts –

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all of which will be free to attend live via the fair website. ABN commercial director Danny Johnson said: “The fair is a hugely important event for the industry. We are committed to helping producers improve performance on farm and that is exactly what these forums will be offering.” Topping the bill is the popular Pig Outlook Forum. Chaired by Mike Sheldon from the AHDB Pork Board, it will give producers the chance to hear what supply chain leaders see as the challenges and opportunities ahead for the sector. Morrisons head of agriculture Sophie Throup will outline the future of British pork on the supermarket’s shelves. She will be joined by Andrew Saunders from processor Tulip and National Pig Association chairman Rob Mutimer.

Practical management Dutch expert Chris Opschoor, from Topigs Norsvin, will lead a session on optimising sow and pre-weaning piglet performance. Kristian Volshøj from AB Neo will share practical management tips to ensure piglets survive and thrive in large litters. This session will focus on how the nutritional needs of the hyper-prolific sow change with productivity levels – and how feeding to meet these needs can help ensure piglets thrive, both in her current litter but also following litters. Producers concerned about ammonia emission limits with the forthcoming changes to the Environmental Permitting Regulations, will be particularly interested in an AHDB-led session on ammonia emissions. Philippa Mansfield from Catchment Sensitive Farming will outline how producers can comply with rules on air quality. Equipment suppliers Big Dutchman will showcase ways producers can mitigate ammonia emissions to meet regulatory requirements. For forum details, visit www.pigandpoultry.org.uk. The next Pig & Poultry Fair will take place on 10-11 May 2022.

Positive outlook for poultry meat Poultry producers have cautious room for optimism as lockdown measures ease, says Danny Johnson, commercial director at ABN. “When the UK went into lockdown last year the hospitality sector shut down overnight, with a huge impact on wholesale. Now, the industry is watching to see what happens next. Will people eat out again or continue to eat in the home?” Consumers are increasingly focusing on higher welfare, slower growing birds, and retailers will want to meet those demands, explains Mr Johnson. But the question is whether people want to pay for it – and whether it can be effectively resourced. “If we need to produce the same number of birds but at lower stocking rates, that will take more land. And it’s difficult to get planning permission, particularly close to processing sites – which is important given the current Defra consultation over travelling times.”

Sustainability To meet such demands will require a joined-up and well-resourced approach throughout the supply chain – and a higher price at the end of it, he adds. Forum discussions are likely to revolve around sustainability and changing welfare demands A balance needs to be struck, says Mr Johnson. New Red Tractor standards might include compulsory windows in poultry sheds and lower stocking rates, while retailers will likely be looking at net zero and replacements for soya in poultry diets. “A lot of businesses are talking about net zero and imported soya. But there are lots of balances to find the right solution. We really need clarity from retailers and consumers over their priorities. “If we try to do everything at once we may end up not succeeding with anything.”

MAY 2021 • ANGLIA FARMER 41

Livestock

Treat livestock now for flies to prevent population explosion

arge fly populations and costly health issues are expected unless farmers protect livestock before the weather really starts to warm up, say experts. The cold spring has delayed flies from becoming a problem already this season. But fly populations are set to multiply rapidly as temperatures rise. Control now will make it easier for the rest of the summer. Vet Maarten Boers, of the Livestock Partnership, says it is important to ‘nip flies in the bud’ to keep them under control for the rest of the season. “Now is the time to treat animals before the weather warms and the population explodes.” Flies can cause serious diseases resulting in lost production and possible death. New Forest Eye caused by the bacterium Moraxella bovis is one of the major diseases trans-

mitted by flies to cattle. Mr Boers said: “Not only does it compromise animal welfare, but it also requires antibiotic treatment. With responsible antibiotic use something we should all be focusing on, we must prevent flies by using appropriate fly control early.” Summer mastitis is spread by flies and can lead to animals being removed from production. Flies are also responsible for spreading the bacteria that causes warts, with consequences more severe than just cosmetic concerns. Mr Boer added: “Many people think warts are only cosmetic, but if they are present on the teats a cow will become impossible to milk and may have to leave the herd prematurely.” In sheep, flies can also cause devasting

issues such as blowfly strike. Zoetis vet Ally Anderson said: “If an infestation is missed, it can cause intense suffering and even death. All of these fly-related diseases can be prevented by good farm hygiene and fly control products. “Each product has different ingredients, control periods and withdrawal times. It is important cattle and sheep producers discuss insect control options with their vet or animal health adviser to find the product most suited to their herd or flock.”

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Poultry Business of the year 42 ANGLIA FARMER • MAY 2021

Virtual cook-along provides showcase for British beef exports to Singapore

Fly problems can be reduced by treating cattle sooner rather than later

hefs and importers in Singapore have had the chance to sample British beef as part of a series of virtual events to target the all-important market. Last week, 15 key influencers were invited to the virtual cook-along where they had the opportunity to try their hand at English beef ribeye with mushrooms, croutons, celery cress and black truffle. The event was organised by Susan Stewart, export manager at the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board. Held in partnership with the British Chamber of Commerce, the goal is to continue boosting red meat exports to the country. Singapore is an important high-end market for UK red meat exports, with volumes and value of beef exports increasing in 2020. Last year, some 1,558 tonnes of fresh and frozen meat were exported – worth £2.6m to the UK. Ms Stewart said: “Singapore is a key target market for our red meat ex-

ports and while the volumes of meat shipped is relatively low, the value of cuts provides a fantastic boost for the UK’s red meat sector. “This virtual cook-along was organised to ensure that we continue flying the flag for our red meat in this important market and do all we can during these challenging times to reach key contacts and continue boosting our exports.” The event saw boxes of ribeye beef shipped to selected influencers. They were able to cook along with Paul Hallett, executive chef at Singapore’s exclusive Skai restaurant, and experience the taste of British beef. A positive response to the AHDB event has led to a second virtual cookalong being organised during April. It saw two chefs cook a British Sunday roast, featuring prime cuts of British beef. The events coincide with Singapore’s FHA Match food and drink event. Taking place during mid-April,

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Livestock

Drought-hit grassland could benefit from forage maize • Poor grass growth requires urgent decisions • Consider replacing 25% of poor grass leys • One maize cut can deliver more than grass

airy and livestock producers should consider replacing slow-growing silage leys with drought tolerant maize without delay to avoid forage shortfalls this winter. “It’s time to make some bold decisions,” says Neil Groom of forage specialists Grainseed. “Grass has not grown much in recent weeks because of the cold and dry spring and prospects for first cut are not looking good. “Last year, first cut was early because it was so hot and the problems arose after this as it then turned dry so subsequent cuts were poor because there was no regrowth on them. “In contrast, this year’s first cut has probably been delayed by around three weeks compared to 2020 because we are so far behind with heat units and the effects of the current spring drought and frosts which have made matters much worse.” A light first cut followed by poor subsequent ones is a real possibility for many now with very low tonnages of grass silage being produced for the coming winter, he believes. “With this in mind, it’s actually worth considering spraying off a portion of the worst-hit swards and replacing these with more drought tolerant maize. “It may sound drastic, but that way you’re going to get the potential of a single cut in September or early October that’s going to give you on average 17t/acre of forage at 32% drymatter and 30% starch. “There’s going to be more energy and feed value in that one crop of maize than some lightweight second, third, fourth and even fifth cuts of grass combined. “Plus, if the lack of rainfall persists, the ability of maize to thrive with much less water than grass means it will still deliver much needed forage stocks when swards start to die back.”

Replacing grass Where the situation looks particularly bad, growers should consider replacing up to 25% of their silage land with maize, says Mr Groom.

“You need to assess it on a field by field basis. If a field has a two-year old Italian ryegrass ley in it, it’s going to be thin by now anyway, so that could certainly be a candidate for replacing with maize. “Similarly, longer terms leys could have more weed grasses in them than the original rye grasses sown and this will reduce both palatability and feed value. These are worth considering. “You need to get out there, make an assessment of ground cover and how long the leys have been down and take out your weakest ones.” As far as maize drilling is concerned, Mr Groom recommends a drought tolerant variety like Marco. “In the east of the country, that should be ready to cut by the 10 October and then, if you’re well organised, you can drill new grass seed in straight behind that.

“

There can be more value in one maize crop than a season of grass silage

Weed control “It’s important to get early weed control right ahead of the maize. If you don’t have the chance to use a pre-emergence herbicide, then con-

trol any weeds post-emergence when they are still at the cotyledon stage. “That way you’ll be ensuring all the water and nutrients remain available for the maize crop and have not been used up growing weeds.” Cultivations can make an important contribution to soil water conservation too, he says. “Rather than ploughing your chosen swards up, use something like a Sumo Trio cultivator with deep tines and a packer roller so you’re moving the soil and then compressing it rather than exposing the moisture contained to the air. “The other thing is to check is pH. A lot of grassland can be below 6.5 so you need to correct that and apply as much FYM and slurry as you can to really give the maize as good a start as possible. Correct soil pH is also important to aid nutrient uptake and placement fertilisers with the drill will be beneficial, particularly if you are at index 2 or below for P. “Placement fertilisers will also help produce a bigger root system earlier and this allows the plant to access as much water as possible as the crop grows.” Making decisions on realistic forage production after first cut in May allows a more diverse range of forage options to be planned, he says.

It’s time for bold decisions, says Neil Groom. MAY 2021 • ANGLIA FARMER 45

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Machinery Persistent thieves target high-value quad bikes • Crooks want more ‘bang for their buck’ • Most expensive ATVs are sought after • Thefts expected to rise after lockdown

hieves are targeting hi-spec quad bikes – with more of the desirable 4x4 ATVs expected to go missing as lockdown restrictions ease. Although the number of machines stolen fell last year, NFU Mutual says thieves are increasingly targeting larger and more expensive off-road models. The rural insurer has launched a free tracker and immobiliser scheme to catch return thieves. These machines, which often seat two people side-by side and have a load space at the back now represent 14% of all quad and ATV thefts, compared to 11% in 2019. They can cost two or three times as much as a quad bike. To help farmers protect their quads from increasingly sophisticated thieves, NFU Mutual is providing updated security advice for ATVs, described by technical engineering manager Bob Henderson as a vital tool on modern farms. “Rural thieves target quads and other farm all-terrain vehicles because they’re expensive kit with a ready resale market in this country and abroad. However, their light weight makes them easier to steal than heavier equipment such as tractors.’

Pilot scheme NFU Mutual is also launching a pilot scheme with manufacturers starting with Yamaha and Honda to provide customers with free tracking and immobilisation equipment on vehicles bought to replace stolen quads and ATVS – following a paid claim. Thieves often return to a farm where they have stolen a quad in the hope of being able to steal its new replacement, says Mr Henderson. The scheme will see Datatool install free tracking devices and immobilisers to protect customers from repeat crime. “We also want to help keep farmers

– who often work alone – safe. The immobiliser systems have smart technology which can raise the alarm if a machine has been impacted or rolled over.” NFU Mutual is covering the cost of the tracker and immobiliser installation and the first year’s subscription. The insurer is also looking to install trackers and immobilisers on other brands if they meet the required standard and fitting cost.

High-value items While many types of rural theft have fallen during lockdown, the overall cost of agricultural vehicle and machinery theft remains high. One reason is that

thieves are getting more bang for their buck by targeting high-value portable items. Thefts from farms and rural properties are expected to surge as lockdown eases. News of the scheme has been welcomed by detective constable Chris Piggott, of the National Vehicle Crime Intelligence Service. “After removal of keys, trackers and immobilisers are the most effective measures against quad theft acting as both a deterrent and also increasing the chance of police recovering the vehicle and catching the people behind these crimes.” To help farmers cover the costs of fitting security devices to their equipment, NFU Mutual already offers insurance discounts for a range of devices from mechanical measures, CESAR marking, electronic tracking to immobilisers.

“

Light weight machines are much easier to steal

Quadbike checklist To protect quads and other ATVs from thieves, NFU Mutual and the National Vehicle Crime Intelligence Service have issued the following advice: Always remove keys and keep them stored securely, away from the vehicle When not in use, keep quads and all-terrain-vehicles locked up out of sight Install tracking devices and immobilisers to make it easier for police to recover stolen vehicles – and message you if your machine is being tampered with. Set an automated Geofence or working hours alert in case your machine is moved outside a pre-set working area or time Use CESAR marking to deter thieves and enable police to identify stolen machinery Target-harden your quad by creating a security cage or use a mechanical device such as steering brake/ lock, ground anchor or wheel clamp when not in use. Know what you own – keep records of serial numbers and photographs of your kit including unique identifying features When buying a new quad, insist on a chipped key and immobilisation system

MAY 2021 • ANGLIA FARMER 47

Machinery

App aids spray and fertiliser applications

ariable rate application maps for agrochemical and fertiliser applications can now be created more easily thanks to a John Deere. It follows the development of a new site-specific app by John Deere and German start-up company Solorrow. The app makes it easier for farmers to create maps and send them wirelessly from the John Deere Centre to machines in the field. John Deere says the Solorrow app offers

operators an affordable and very easy way to quickly identify fields and their boundaries in a map view on their tablet or smartphone – aiding the efficient application of crop inputs. Based on five years of biomass data, selected areas can be divided into different soil zones as the basis for fertiliser and spray applications. Data received by the in-cab display is transmitted to the Isobus-controlled spreader or sprayer. John Deere says the collaboration with

Solorrow demonstrates that the smooth exchange of data between different manufacturers’ software is both possible and practical. It says farmers maintain full control and ownership of their data at all times. This allows John Deere dealers to offer farmers and contractors an even wider range of Precision Ag systems. Ccustomers can continue to benefit from the usual services for consultation, commissioning and technical support, it says.

New field sales manager for Stocks Ag

tocks Ag has appointed Tim Farrow as its UK field sales manager for the company’s range of applicators, wheels and tyres. Mr Farrow began his career as a machine operator and service engineer before running his own business for 14 years importing and distributing livestock equipment. He then worked for a machinery dealer. Managing director James Woolway said the appointment would bolster Stocks Ag

office-based sales team at Wisbech. Mr Farrow had worked in the agricultural machinery sector for 25 years. Mr Farrow said: “Stocks has always been a name I have known. I have a good understanding of the UK machinery industry and joining Stocks was an opportunity too good to miss.” He added: “I am excited to be part of this British engineering company – especially now that Stocks is under new ownership – and am getting to grips with the full range of applicators and specialist wheels.”

UK field sales manager Tim Farrow

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48 ANGLIA FARMER • MAY 2021

LATEST USED STOCK www.chandlersfe.co.uk

RG655

RG655D

MT765C

MT765E

MT775E

MT765D

2014, 5129 Hrs, 250 HP 6,000 litres, 36m Triple Fold Chafer Steel Booms

2016, 3000 Hrs, 242 HP 6,000 litres, Twin Nozel Bodies, 32m Booms

2009, 9327 Hrs, 360 HP Speed: 40Km/h Track: 30 Track %: 60

2015, 8279 Hrs, 380 HP Speed: 40Km/h Track: 25 Track %: 40

2015, 6677 Hrs, 400 HP Speed: 40Km/h Track: 25 Track %: 50

2013, 4404 Hrs, 380 HP Speed: 40Km/h Track: 30 Track %: 50

£85,000.00

£140,000.00

£57,500.00

£71,250.00

£83,000.00

£87,500.00

LESS THAN

1000 500

HOURS

LESS THAN

1000 500 HOURS

716

718

720

724

828

939

£82,500.00

£133,000.00

£75,500.00

£139,000.00

£156,000.00

£95,750.00

MF 1735M HP

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MF 7620

MF 7626

MF 7720

MF 7720 EX DVT

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£47,500.00

£47,950.00

£51,250.00

£45,000.00

£52,450.00

2017, 2975 Hrs, 170 HP Tyres: 540/65R28 (50%) 650/65R38 (50%)

35 HP, Tyres: 7-14, 9.5R24 Ag

2020, 400 Hrs, 190 HP Tyres: 540/65R28 (95%) 650/65R38 (95%)

2015, 5058 Hrs, 190 HP Tyres: 480/70R28 (100%) 580/70R38 (100%)

2015, 4960 Hrs, 210 HP Tyres: 540/65R30 (60%) 650/65R42 (70%)

2015, 4877 Hrs, 200 HP Tyres: 540/65R30 (50%) 650/65R42 (50%)

2019, 520 Hrs, 250 HP Tyres: 540/65R30 (90%) 650/65R42 (50%)

2014, 4346 Hrs, 280 HP Tyres: 600/60R30 (50%) 710/60R42 (50%)

LESS THAN

2019, 400 Hrs, 290 HP Tyres: 600/70R30 (95%) 710/70R42 (95%)

2016, 5500 Hrs, 210 HP Tyres: 420/85R30 (100%) 520/85R42 (100%)

2017, 6800 Hrs, 400 HP Tyres: 710/60R34 (30%) 900/60R42 (40%)

2016, 4768 Hrs, 210 HP Tyres: 540/65R30 (40%) 650/65R42 (40%)

LESS THAN

1000 500

1500 1000

HOURS

N134H5

N174V

T120H

T151

T174EA

T234V

£64,500.00

£69,850.00

£37,500.00

£34,000.00

£84,450.00

£74,950.00

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£18,750.00

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2014 (64) 2.4 Warrior Manual Double Cab 78,485 Miles

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2015 (15) 2.4 Titan Manual Double Cab 77,500 Miles

2015 (65) 2.5 Tekna Manual Double Cab 94,927 Miles

2020 (20) 2.2 Rhino Auto Double Cab 1,436 Miles

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£13,490.00

£12,990.00

£13,990.00

£12,890.00 (NO VAT)

£28,990.00

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

Year: 2012, 3691 Hrs Manitou Headstock Tyres: 405/70R20 40%

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

Year: 2013, 4998 Hrs 3700kg lift, 140HP 6 speed powershift transmission

2005, 8100 Hrs, 130 HP Tyres: Front 50% Back 50%

Year: 2003 40% Tyres 7078 Hrs

2015 (15) 2.5 Tekna Auto Double Cab 61,300 Miles

2011, 7250 Hrs, 160 HP Tyres: 480/65R28 (60%) 580/65R38 (40%)

Year: 2015 4200kg Lift, 60% Tyres 4850 Hrs

2020, 773 Hrs, 180 HP Tyres: 540/65R28 (90%) 650/65R38 (95%)

Year: 2015 4200kg Lift

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

2018, 3448 Hrs, 240 HP Tyres: 540/65R30 (50%) 650/65R42 (50%)

Year: 2017, 4200 Hrs 7m Reach, 4200kg lift Michelin Tyres: 50%

2015 (15) 2.5 D-4D Manual Double Cab 39,013 Miles

£17,490.00

Machinery

Vintage machinery collection sale includes Series 1 Land Rover

Series 1 Land Rover will be among the sought after principal lots at a vintage collective sale due to take place next month. The Wombwell Collection – which is being sold at Ickleton, Cambridgeshire – also includes a rare Massey Harris 21 combine and a McCormick-Deering WD40. The collection belonged to Dick Wombwell – a well-known face on the vintage tractor scene. The 1958 109inch Series 1 Land Rover was purchased as an abandoned project by Mr Wombwell and meticulously restored over several years to his exacting standards at significant expense. Showing just 31,000 miles and with the new oversize tyres being the only real deviation from standard specification. Running and driving and having had a starring role at two fami-

ly weddings the Series 1 is offered for sale with current V5C documentation. The collection of vintage machines, including a number of tractors, was amassed over some 40 years. Due to go live on the Cheffins website on 17 June, the auction has a viewing day on 18 June before closing on 22 June. Mr Wombwell’s son Peter said: “My father’s collection is a testament to his knowledge of the history of farming, as he loved to seek out tractors and machinery from across the UK which were at the forefront of agricultural development. “My father lived on Rectory Farm his entire life and his collection ebbed and flowed over the years, and at its high point included over 20 pieces of vintage kit as he continued to buy items reminiscent of farming in his youth.”

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Mr Wombwell grew his collection from the late 1970s onwards. “He was never happier than with a spanner in his hand, tinkering with a new find in his workshop or driving around the show ring at vintage and country fairs.” Cheffins director and auctioneer Oliver Godfrey said: “Private collectors are expected to be bidding in force at this sale, looking for that next piece of kit to use for the upcoming rally and ploughing match season.” For details, visit www.chefﬁns.co.uk

The 1997cc Series 1 Land Rover has a guide price of £14-16,000

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Property Changing land use offers opportunities for farmers • Pressures set to change UK countryside • Key drivers are climate change and policy • Opportunity for forward-thinking farmers

lobal warming, government policies and environmental pressures are set to see big changes to farmland, says a report. Climate change, advancing technologies, a rising global population and shifting public expectations will create opportunities for forward-thinking farmers, suggests the study by the Central Association of Agricultural Valuers. “How land is farmed and the purposes it is put to are going to change exponentially in the coming decades,” says CAAV adviser and report author Jeremy Moody. “This will not only be about changing businesses but also changing landscapes, as each farmer and landowner reacts to the challenges and opportunities in order to grow and thrive.” Called Future Rural Land Uses in the UK, the study suggests farmers and landowners should concentrate on the variables within their control in order to secure a sustainable future for their businesses.

Future direction This may involve generational change or letting land out, says Mr Moody. “Developing progressive businesses will typically see the adoption of new technologies, trained staff and adapting to public demands, as well as to new policy.” Economics and climate change measures are likely to be the overarching drivers of change in land use, says the report. It outlines five key directions of travel for farmers and the way they use their land. First, commodity producers will need to keep costs of production down. They will need to be increasingly choosy about the land they use – according to the margin it makes to support overheads and profits. Secondly, other farmers may opt to produce something different for the

market or add value to produce, in a bid to boost margins.

Business management “Farmers need to be interested in what is happening beyond the farm gate,” says Mr Moody. “Success in this approach won’t depend on the area of land but on successfully managing the business.” Thirdly, there is a growing trend for higher value production; much of it now indoors or under cover, whether with pigs and poultry or glasshouses and controlled environment farming. Fourthly, some will stay in farming but turn their attention towards supplying public goods and environmental benefits. A wide range of environmental options are available, many of which can support better farming. Finally, some land may be managed primarily for environmental purposes with little or no farming. This could include woodland, peatland to reduce carbon emissions or wetland and rewilding. Away from land management, other land could move out of agricultural

use to urban development or renewable energy production. “Overall, marginal arable land might, as in previous times of pressure, be the most exposed to these changes – and is where the loss of basic payments could have the greatest impact,” says Mr Moody. “Managing these changes – rather than being managed by them – will require new approaches to business and land use and advice on investing, skills, technology and structure will be essential,” he concludes.

Farmland is increasingly being used differently, says the report

Act quickly to secure rural broadband grants Farmers wanting faster broadband are being invited to apply for grant funding through the Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme. The government has recently confirmed that a third round of the scheme will open on 8 April 2021, with a total funding pot of £210m on offer. The scheme offers grants – or vouchers – to anyone with a connection speed of less than 100mbps in rural areas where no investment is already planned to improve broadband infrastructure, says Stuart Gray, of Strutt & Parker’s St Alban’s office. Applicants must be part of a group of two or more homes or businesses combining vouchers towards a shared cost of installation. Larger numbers of properties can also band together to form a community fibre partnership.

“Given eligible premises can receive up to £1,500 per home or £3,500 per business, community collectives can accumulate significant sums towards the costs of installation,” says Mr Gray. “We recently worked with a rural estate which joined forces with a community fibre partnership in the local village, enabling 77 properties to be connected. The voucher scheme raised £123,500 against a total project cost of £170,000. “Because the estate was able to deliver significant savings by installing some of the underground ducts itself, ultimately the vouchers fully covered the fibre provision to all 77 properties.” Any agreement must being subject to the Electronic Communications Code. Other grant assistance may also be available from local authorities or development trusts.

MAY 2021 • ANGLIA FARMER 53

Property

New Countryside Code urges visitors to act responsibly

armers should welcome visitors to the countryside, says new government guidance which urges people to act responsibly when walking on rights of way. The advice is contained in a refreshed version of the Countryside Code. It says people of all ages and backgrounds should enjoy the health and wellbeing benefits that nature offers – while respecting it. The new Countryside Code coincides with the 70th anniversary of first booklet in 1951. With more people enjoying the outdoors than ever before, it has been revised to help people enjoy the countryside in a safe and respectful way. This update – the first in over a decade – was shaped by nearly 4,000 stakeholder responses to an online survey. It sought views on best practices for visiting the countryside and protecting the natural environment and saw a huge response. Changes include advice on creating a welcoming environment by say-

ing hello to fellow visitors; clearer rules to underline the importance of clearing away dog poo; staying on footpaths; and not feeding livestock. Natural England chairman Tony Juniper said: “The Countryside Code has been providing an excellent guide for people on how to get out and enjoy the outdoors safely for over 70 years. The May bank holidays are expected to be a bumper period for visitors to the countryside. Last summer, the Countryside Code was updated to respond to issues raised during lockdown, including litter and dogs attacking livestock.

Key changes to the Countryside Code New advice for people to ‘be nice, say hello, share the space’ as well as ‘enjoy your visit, have fun, make a memory’. A reminder not to feed livestock, horses or wild animals.

More people are visiting the countryside, says Natural England

To stay on marked footpaths, even if they are muddy, to protect crops and wildlife. Information on permissions to do certain outdoor activities, such as wild swimming. Clearer rules for dog walkers to take home dog waste

SIGNS POINT TO BUSY SUMMER FOLLOWING SECOND YEAR OF SLIM SUPPLY Unsatisfied demand, a favourable tax environment and firm values are all likely to generate positive activity in the farmland market across the eastern counties of England this summer. Carter Jonas agents working in the region report that a diverse range of buyers are waiting for the right property after what has been a second successive year of low supply. Jack Cook, Senior Surveyor, said the second lockdown “focused minds” and, once further restrictions are lifted this will lead to more enquires from buyers and sellers. “There have been fewer acres coming to the market and each has been keenly sought-after by a number number of buyers,” Jack outlined. “They are not all traditional purchasers of agricultural land. We are seeing a range of investors looking to diversify their portfolio or react to what has been happening this year.” Jack says lifestyle buyers looking outside of major cities for small farms with country houses is one example, while other interest has come from those with one eye on the political climate. Mark Russell, Partner, added that charities, wildlife trusts and even parish councils have bought or bid for parcels of land on the basis that it offers the potential for public benefits now and wider environmental benefits in the future. Mark said: “If an organisation sees the right property offering what they need it will bid strongly for it.” Location is also a key driver in the market for commercial agricultural land – a feature that Mark thinks has led to the market becoming even more splintered.

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54 ANGLIA FARMER • MAY 2021

“If 1,000 acres on the A14 or M11/A11 corridor came to the market there would be a small number of very keen buyers with cash in the bank ready to bid for it,” he said. “They want scale, buildings, a yard and accessibility and they are willing to pay strong prices for the right thing. “For smaller farms of about 50 to 200 acres we are seeing amenity and rollover buyers coming forward and have traded one this year close to £10,000/acre and another which is selling at over £9,000/acre.” Jack and Mark are also increasingly advising strategic lotting to capitalise on the breadth of buyers currently in the market. “We have been working with sellers to identify each part of the farm with potential for non-agricultural use including development value, be it in the short or long term,” Jack said. “It might have a grain store that we could secure Class Q permitted development rights for, or carry out some evaluation into the potential for renewable energy development. “Every aspect of the sale has to be looked at and potentially lotted separately to extract maximum value in the market we are operating in.” Mark added: “It is likely that in the next two years taxes are going to change so now is being seen as a good time to buy and sell in a known value and tax environment. We are predicting a positive late farmland market in 2021.” For more information, contact Jack Cook on jack.cook@carterjonas.co.uk or 07800 571976, or Mark Russell on mark.russell@carterjonas.co.uk or 07967 555737.

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Farm energy Savings to be made on farm electricity bills • Review contracts to get best deals • Check detail before signing • Be wary of unsolicited ‘better’ oﬀers

arms and rural estates could make significant savings on their energy and heating bills by reviewing supply contracts that have been allowed to run on without being reviewed. “Over the past 10 years, business users will have seen electricity costs increase significantly,” says Lauren Gibson-Green, head of energy land and property specialists Strutt & Parker.” The government started recording data in 2004 from eight of the largest gas and electricity suppliers in the UK. Since 2007, small businesses have seen an average price rise of 43%, with large industrial consumers seeing a 75% increase.

“

We saved the farmer £6,000 in the first year.

Many farmers are paying more than they should for electricity

Ofgem – the industry regulator for the gas and electricity markets – estimates that around 41% of businesses have never switched energy supplier. As a result, those businesses are often on more expensive “deemed rates”.

Contract rates Deemed rates are typically 40% higher than contract rates. They are a direct result of not renewing expired supply contracts. The average rate of electricity is currently about £0.16 per unit – while the average deemed rate is some £0.25 per unit. “It is estimated that approximately 50% of farmers and landowners are unaware of the price that they currently pay for their supplies, suggesting that many are paying more than they need to,” says Ms Gibson-Green. “We were recently asked to review an electricity supply contract for a large dairy unit,” she explains. “After some comprehensive market analysis, we managed to secure a fully fixed price for three years that saved the farmer more than £6,000 in the first year.” Ms Gibson-Green says electricity and gas supply contracts are made up of more than just the headline unit price. This means they need careful analysis. Farmers should also be aware of the contract length of the tariff they sign up to, she adds. “There can be dozens of other charges buried within the rates and that’s

Farmers should review contracts for the best rates, says Lauren Gibson-Green

before we even consider the non-commodity costs. Varying contract lengths, types and exit clauses all need to be carefully considered before signing up to a new supply.” Strutt & Parker offers a service to help farms and estates with an annual power bill higher than £5,000 to cut their electricity costs. The business is also able to work with its energy experts to review heating oil, mains and LPG Gas costs. Other advisors can help farmers get better rates too. The farmer-owned buying group Anglia Farmers offers a best value procurement service for members who use its metered services for electricity, mains gas and non-domestic mains water. Farmers are advised to be wary of companies which cold-call businesses offering cheaper tariffs.

Green energy opportunities for farmers

aw firm Clarke Willmott hosted the first in a series of webinars with NFU Energy to look at green energy projects in the agricultural sector. The Green Energy Diversification event attracted over 230 people from a wide cross-section of industries including farmers, contractors, land and estate agents, funders, green energy consultants and planning specialists. Chaired by Priscilla Hall, head of green energy at Clarke

56 ANGLIA FARMER • MAY 2021

Willmott, attendees also heard from specialist energy and agriculture sector-focused solicitors Paul Hazeldine and Amy Peacey from the firm, along with Jon Swain, technical director at NFU Energy. Topics covered included leases and the pitfalls to avoid, feedstock agreements for anaerobic digestion plants and top tips on how the agricultural sector can play its

part in helping to reduce carbon emissions through green technologies. Ms Hall said: “We were pleased to see so many professionals in attendance and I’m sure they found the content both informative and valuable. Our Q&A session was particularly useful with many issues covered from policy and legal queries to technical questions. For further details and a copy of the presentation, email harriet.salisbury@clarkewillmott.com

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Been promised a nest egg for your agricultural land? You need specialist legal advice for selling farmland to a developer Obtaining the best advice at the start will help ensure you can offer land for sale in the most lucrative way to both the developer and yourself. Title Deeds | Partnerships | Buying or Selling Land | Lettings | Tenancies Pipelines | Wind Turbines | Shooting & Fishing Rights | Footpaths Bridleways Basic Payment Schemes | Grazing Agreements | Promotion Agreements Development Agreements | Planning Permission | Inheritance & Succession Issues | Wills & Tax Advice And to make it even easier... at Oval Law, we’ll always visit you. Call Paul Hillier on 01234 860856 or email to arrange an appointment. Oval Law | Winthorpe House | 29 Church End | Biddenham | Bedford MK40 4AR Telephone: 01234 860856 | Email: info@ovallaw.co.uk Authorised and Regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority No. 613473

Farm energy

Don’t take risk with energy agreements • Undertake due diligence before signing • Complex area requires understanding • Seek good advice from proper experts

andowners should think twice before signing renewable energy agreements which could see them tied into astronomical bills and unsuccessful projects. Too many farmers and other landowners are allowing prospective largescale energy projects on their land to be instigated in the developer’s name, according to independent power and energy specialist Roadnight Taylor. This leaves landowners open to poorly negotiated rents and lease terms – and the high failure rate of most developers’ grid applications. But the alternative – applying in their own name without specialist advice – is even more dangerous and risky. “In one case recently, a poorly-advised landowner accepted an offer for a 50MW project that was going to cost £11m to connect to the power grid – which was never going to be financially viable,” explains director Hugh Taylor.

Escape route “They put down a £50,000 grid deposit but hadn’t spotted that they were liable for a £250,000 charge if they didn’t withdraw by a certain date – when they approached us they had just 24 hours to escape.” In another case, the grid connection offer came with the proviso that the landowner contribute nearly £300,000 towards £1.5 million of network reinforcements – which, taken at face value, didn’t render the project unviable. Mr Taylor says the landowner didn’t realise they could incur the full £1.5m cost if for any reason they were unable to connect their scheme. This could include the bill for failing to secure the right planning consent. “It’s so important to safeguard your rights and protect against risks,” explains Mr Taylor. “Allowing the grid application to be made in the developer’s name means you can’t get developers competing for your site, it reduces your chances of achieving a scheme in the first place, and it cedes control in negotiations.” But if seeking grid connections in your own name it’s absolutely vital to take specialist professional advice, he 58 ANGLIA FARMER • MAY 2021

adds. Too many land agents think that they can advise on grid connections, but it is an incredibly complex area. A thorough understanding of the energy market is vital to see whether a grid connection offer is financially viable. The network operator has to provide a connection quote for every project – but if the quote is too high then no developer will take it on. The acceptance rate of grid connection offers is as low as 8%, depending on the Distribution Network Operator. Each of those failed projects would have cost over £1,000 in consultants’ fees and up to £8,000 in application fees, says Mr Taylor. In many cases, the flawed application will have cost the landowner many millions in future ground rent receipts too. In contrast, Roadnight Taylor says it had an acceptance rate of over 90% for its landowners’ connection offers. Mr Taylor says this secured enough grid capacity for 2GW of solar panels – equivalent to around 2400ha (6,000 acres). It can also hold grid rights on trust for the landowner, completely insulating them from financial risk.

Farmers should seek to insulate themselves from risk says Hugh Taylor

Knowledge gap “Getting the correct connection rights is very challenging, and there are risks to accepting offers that contain cost ap-

portionments and securities for wider works, as they can easily reach £100,000s.” Another risk to allowing connection rights to start in the developer’s name is that they could go bust, lose interest in the site, or not negotiate in good faith. Mr Taylor says landowners should be proactive and get in there before your neighbours. “Make sure you’re being properly advised,” he adds. “If you do decide to accept a grid offer, you then need to safeguard your rights and then, at the right time, smoothly transact them with a developer of your choosing to take the project forward. “The grid rights need to end up in a developer’s name at some point – unless you wish to pay for the planning application and project build – but you must guard against the risk of them going cold on the site or going bust.”

‘Faster solution needed’ on Net Zero target Landowners are committed to helping the UK reach Net Zero by 2050 – but a faster solution is needed, says the Country Land and Business Association. CLA president Mark Bridgeman said the association’s members had involved in peatland restoration, tree planting, increasing onland biodiversity and wildlife habitats to help the UK Government achieve its net zero target by 2050. “Many are already pioneering new land management methods such as peatland restoration to remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. The UK’s forests store 3.7bn tonnes of carbon so, the more trees we plant, the more

carbon we remove.” The forthcoming Environmental Land Management Scheme offered a strong platform, added Mr Bridgeman. But with funding not available until 2024 a quicker solution was needed to offset carbon emissions. “We are already starting to see the impacts of climate change across rural communities and it is critical that the government supports actions to combat the increased risk of flooding, drought and severe weather events.” The UK’s greenhouse gas emissions are now 51% below 1990 levels meaning that the UK is now halfway to meeting its target of net zero emissions by 2050.

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start-up company which aims to connect commercial buyers with farmers who generate renewable energy has received almost £1m in funding. With the agricultural industry embracing anaerobic digestion, backers say the platform will make it easier for farmers to gain visibility of clean energy markets, capitalise on market opportunities and achieve the best prices for power sold to the grid. Called PPAYA, the new virtual marketplace aims to maximise the price of Power Purchasing Agreements (PPAs) for farmers and other energy generators while minimising the associated administrative burden. It works by bringing people together and encouraging collaboration between all stakeholders involved in the PPA. This is set to become more important as the UK strives to de-carbonise to meet climate change targets.

New climate change commitments announced by the government last month set the UK on course to cut carbon emissions by 78% by 2035. Renewables energy is seen as a key way of achieving this goal. The commitment, which is set to become law by the end of June, brings forward the government’s current target for reducing carbon emissions by 15 years. Doing so would position the UK as a world leader on climate change. The subsidy free market is expected to unlock about £20bn of investment in the UK between now and 2030. PPAYA will also help existing generators maximise returns when they look to renew their current PPAs. The funding will

be used to widen the company’s offering to agricultural energy generators, by backing projects that will support the UK’s transition towards renewaachieving netfor zero When ble thegeneration time cameand to start planning a emissions. more relaxed lifestyle after more than 50 PPAYA founder and chief executive years of farming together, the comfort of Kristina Rabecaite (left) said: “The enretirement sit well with reactive the ergydidn’t industry is very when challenges of maintaining a 16th it comes to executing PPAsCentury and most Grade II people listed farmhouse, for Suffolk and companies do not have the tools time to alert them to farming couple Harryorand Alison Standley. power price spikes. Initially farming at Benningham Hall Farm “We are delighted to have in the mid-Suffolk village ofsupport Occold,from an secured network slaughtering 500 pigsestablished a week for some of to energy investors 30 years, before a move Aldeburgh who recognise the valpreceded the purchase of Yew Tree Farm ue that PPAYA can bring in Laxfield in 2004,tothe was right forthe thetime industry – and the Standley’s to start planning for a more benefits we can bring to relaxed future. generators, renewable asset developers and fund Yew Tree Farm is an arable-only operation, managers.”

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FARMERSFIRST I S S U E 58 - WI NTE R 2020/21

MAY 2021 • ANGLIA FARMER 61

FINAL SAY Fen Tiger

We need more farm workers like Jim Farming has changed lots in the past 50 years. But the best farm workers have stayed the same, says Fen Tiger

mploying people can be a nightmare. Pick the correct staff and you have a happy workforce. Pick the wrong one and life as an employer becomes difficult. Most farmers agree there is a shortage of experienced workers. But you cannot get experience if you don’t get a job in the first place. So it is one big conundrum: how do you get experience if nobody wants to employ you? In today’s world, many of the bigger farming businesses try to find younger employees with a large mortgage and thirst for extra cash. Even so, the general trend within agriculture is that farmers and the farming workforce is ageing. Why? Long hours seven days a week are bad enough. But agricultural employers find themselves in stiff competition with other sectors which offer shorter hours, a cleaner working environment and better money. The reason I mention employment is because a former employee recently passed away. I won’t reveal his real name, so let’s call him Jim. He joined the farm aged 16 in 1947, worked 49 years and retired at 65.

Same clothes After retiring, Jim returned to the farm on and off for the next few years. He was 89 when he died. At first glance, you would call him a scuffy bugger.

62 ANGLIA FARMER • MAY 2021

“

The farm saw major changes – but his clothes stayed the same

Always wearing the same black donkey jacket, wellington boots and baler twine holding up his trousers. At one time, Jim went through a brief spell wearing a cap. But it was usually the jacket, boots and trousers. The farm saw major changes during his lifetime. But generally, Jim’s clothes stayed the same. He could remember as a young man trying to plough with the horses and having trouble getting them to behave. It was not until the farm foreman told him to whistle that the horses started doing as they were told. Why whistle? Because whistling told the horses when it was time to wee. No wonder they weren’t behaving themselves – the poor things needed the loo. Jim was full of stories. He would often tell the tale later on in his farming career of how he wore three coats on the back of a rear mounted tractor hoe trying to steer with a Fen Blow around his ears. He used to return home the colour of his coat. When I first started on the farm sprayer, he told me he once sprayed some yellow stuff that blocked the sprayer so he took off his jacket rolled up his shirt and stirred

the contents of the tank around with his bare arm. His arm and the other things he scratched that day turned yellow and stayed that way for a whole week. Jim spent hours hand-hoeing beet, pulling weed beet and wild oats. He remembered the days before cover crops when straw was planted between the beet rows to stop the wind blowing the soil away. He was the best drill man I ever saw. Straight as an arrow and when it came to corners he managed to position himself on the mudguard of the old 4600 and still maintain the 20-inch row width. Now, only memories remain.

Loyal employee I wonder what he would make of all this satellite technology today. He once remarked about taking all the sat navs away for 12 months and seeing how straight the tramlines would be then. Farmers today might be trying to recruit people with the right attitude, qualifications and experience. But really, all they need is to find someone like Jim. Sadly, it is an almost impossible task – it’s unlikely we will see anyone like him again. He was a straightforward man with simple ideas that worked. He always ate the same docky – a large piece of bread, cheese and a cold drink in an old sherry bottle. For those who remember my old neighbour Dave, well the two men never saw eye to eye. In Jim’s words, they never had to because Dave was always wrong. But you couldn’t fault his loyalty. How many of today’s farm workers will stay on the same farm for 49 years?

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Anglia Farmer May 2021

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