Anglia Farmer December 2020

December 2020

Anglia

Farmer INCORPORATING ANGLIA MACHINERY

Helmingham Estate: Where building back better means building back greener

News Agriculture Act finally becomes law

Soil management Defra plan to ban solid urea

Machinery Fuel change resolves blockages

Arable New-look lists for peas and beans

Professional Services Farmland market remains resilient

Fen Tiger Humble spud, humble profits

Conservation Confidence vital for ELM success

Potato growers win harvest battle

Tel: 01480 495956 www.flr-cropdrying.com

STRAW PROCUREMENT

ENERGY CROP SERVICES

• Actively looking for Rye, Barley & Wheat straw in swath for 2021

• Unique haulage solutions

• Compost & biosolids available for straw swap

• Maize drilling including fertiliser placement

• Prompt service using latest equipment

• Full service available

Oaks Farm, Kiln Lane, Chedburgh, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP29 4BL Office/Fax: 01284 811509

E: office@ojneilcontracting.co.uk

Anglia

OPINION Johann Tasker

Farmer EDITORIAL Editor:

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

Design: Mark Shreeve | T: 01502 725839 E: mark.shreeve@micropress.co.uk

Advertisement production:

Defra plans still lack detail for ELMs

Jade Soanes | T: 01502 725840 E: jade.soanes@micropress.co.uk

ADVERTISING SALES Chloe Miller | T: 01502 725844 E: chloe.miller@micropress.co.uk Danny Lewis | T: 01502 725862 E: danny.lewis@micropress.co.uk Bethany Andrews | T: 01502 725813 E: bethany.andrews@micropress.co.uk Alistair Bailey | T: 01502 725854 E: alistair.bailey@micropress.co.uk Daniel Rice | T: 01502 725858 E: daniel.rice@micropress.co.uk

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

G

overnment plans to phase out direct payments and introduce a new system of environmental support were confirmed again last month – but left farmers none the wiser in terms of the difference it will make to their earning potential.

Defra secretary George Eustice described his roadmap for the abolition of basic payments and the introduction of the Environmental Land Management (ELM) scheme as the biggest change to farming in 50 years.

Mr Eustice is certainly right about that. It will mean a major upheaval for the industry – and many farmers will find it hard to adjust to life without receiving annual payment which often makes up a sizeable proportion of their income.

As the NFU points out, the annual basic payment has been a lifeline for many farmers – especially when prices or growing conditions have been volatile. As a result, taking them away will surely put some farms out of business.

The government says farmers will able to recoup the money lost through other means – includ-

Contents

ing payments for environmental work under the ELM scheme. Other grants to help farms ramp up productivity will also be available.

The problem is that while Mr Eustice announced lots of detail about the payments he is removing, he was less forthcoming when it came to how much farmers would be able to earn from ELM. Most people in agriculture accept that change needs to happen. But it is difficult – and in some cases impossible – for farmers to plan and prepare their businesses for the future without details of ELM payment rates.

What we do know is that direct payments will be halved by 2024 and gone altogether by 2028. What we don’t know is any detail about what will be put in their place. That makes budgeting and investing for the future very hard indeed.

Mr Eustice says he wants to work with the industry to decide how much ELM payments will be worth. A consultation is due to take place in 2021 and a decision will then be made. For farmers planning for the future, that decision can’t come soon enough.

Vol 40 • No 12 • December 2020

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

Muck & Slurry ............................................... 39

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

Professional Services ................................. 47

In the field ........................................................12

Anglia Machinery ........................................ 56

Conservation & Land Management ....... 25

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

Livestock ......................................................... 34

www.multiindustrialdoors.co.uk sales@multiindustrialdoors.co.uk 01455 891 929 Serving the Agricultural Sector for approx 38 years, all type of industrial doors

Call now for a competitive quote DECEMBER 2020 • ANGLIA FARMER 3

News ‘Biggest change in farm payments for 50 years’ • Agriculture Act finally becomes law • Farm support focuses on environment • Phase out of direct payments begins

B

ig changes to farm support have been given the go-ahead after legislation that the government says will “unleash the potential of agriculture” passed into UK law.

Direct payments to farmers will be phased out over seven years and replaced with a new system of “public money for public goods” which will reward farmers who undertake additional environmental measures on their land.

The government’s Agriculture Act became law on 11 November.

It paves the way for the abolition of the Basic Payment Scheme and the introduction of the Environmental Land Management Scheme (see box).

“

“We will support farmers in reducing their costs and improving their profitability, to help those who want to retire or leave the industry to do so with dignity, and to create new opportunities and

support for new entrants coming in to the industry.”

‘Landmark moment’ NFU president Minette Batters described the legislation as a landmark moment for UK food and farming. She added: “Simply put, the Agriculture Act will set how we farm in this country for generations to come.”

As well as environmental payments, the Act gives the govern-

The Agriculture Act will transform the way we support farmers

Transformation The Act also includes measures designed to support farmers and land managers to boost their productivity, and ultimately maximise the potential of their land to produce high quality food in a more sustainable way.

Defra secretary George Eustice said: “Our landmark Agriculture Act will transform the way we support farmers.”

Funds released from phasing out basic payments would be re-invested into a new policy centred around incentivising sustainable farming practices, supporting nature recovery and ecosystem services to help tackle challenges like climate change.

4 ANGLIA FARMER • DECEMBER 2020

Farmers will be rewarded for measures which improve soil health

ment powers to grant financial assistance to support the selling, marketing, packaging or processing of products derived from an agricultural or horticultural activity.

Getting to this point had not been easy, said Ms Batters. The NFU had made the case that the legislation needed to recognise the role of farmers as food producers and the government had finally agreed that it should do so.

NFU lobbying meant there was a greater focus on food production than there otherwise would – and funding for existing producer organisations activities would continue beyond 2020 and ahead of the new environmental scheme.

Country Land and Business Association president Mark Bridgeman said it was vital for the government to work with farmers and help it support rural communities through job creation and economic development.

“This is only the beginning, not the end of the process for the farming industry,” said Mr Bridgeman.

The Agriculture Act was a reminder of the profound responsibilities growers and livestock producers had to feed the nation.

Mr Bridgeman said the government must commit itself to working hand in glove with the industry to ensure future policies actually work effectively on the ground, while recognising the potential of the rural economy to help combat climate change.”

For more on the environmental land management scheme, see page 25.

Farmers face ‘funding gap’ ahead of ELM scheme The government’s long-awaited Environmental Land Management (ELM) scheme will be phased in as direct payments are phased out – but won’t be fully up and running by 2024.

This means farmers face a funding gap because cuts to the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) will begin from January 2021 but ELM payments will not be fully available to farms for

another four years.

The government says it will introduce a stepping-stone Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) scheme to bridge this gap.

But it is thought unlikely that farmers will be able to recoup all the income lost from BPS by joining the SFI. Defra secretary George Eustice unveiled details of the new scheme on Monday (30 November). Focusing payments almost

solely on environment measures represents the biggest change to farm policy in England for more than 50 years.

Countryside Stewardship schemes will remain open to new applications in the first few years of the agricultural transition period, said Mr Eustice. This would help farmers to springboard into the upcoming Environmental Land Management scheme.

NOTHING BEATS NITRAM Best for yield, best for quality, best for British weather. Nitram® performs to a 36m wide product spread with a 40% reduced* carbon footprint. That’s why it’s been the British farmer’s choice for over 50 years. Visit cffertilisers.co.uk/nitram to learn more.

Enriching British Farming *40% reduction in Nitram production emissions from a 2010 baseline.

News

Farm shows aim to bounce back after coronavirus

T

wo of the region’s biggest agricultural shows hope to come back bigger and better after announcing they won’t take place in 2021.

The Royal Norfolk Show and the Suffolk Show have both been cancelled due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Other agricultural events are also expected to be rescheduled as the Covid-19 outbreak continues.

The Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association (RNAA) said ongoing uncertainty forced it to make the extremely difficult decision that the next Royal Norfolk Show would take place in 2022 and not in 2021 as originally hoped.

Smaller events and activities could still be hosted by the association as it continues to support education, farming and the countryside. These will include events to support education, farming and the countryside.

It added: “We would like to take this opportunity to express

The Suffolk Agricultural Association says some events could still go ahead

our thanks and gratitude for the support we have received and we look forward to celebrating 175 years in 2022.”

Industrial Doors

SCL

by

ideal for your grain storage units

• Roller Shutter Doors • High Speed Doors • Sectional Overhead Doors • Steel Personnel Doors • Folding Shutter Doors • Mezzanine Floors • PVC Strip Curtains • Maintenance Contracts • Fire Shutters And many many more...

t: 01508 813553 m: 07935 117752 e: john@sclnorfolk.co.uk

The Suffolk Agricultural Association said it was with regret that the Suffolk Show would not take place in 2021. All efforts

would now be focused on navigating through the next year and planning for a fantastic show in 2022.

It added: “While recognising this is hugely disappointing for many, we do feel that over the course of 2021, we can put on activities central to our core purpose and are planning a series of events, such as equine and livestock shows.”

Meanwhile, the LAMMA 2021 machinery show has been moved from its usual January date. The two-day event will now be held on 25-26 May 2021 at the Birmingham NEC after organisers said an earlier date would not have been right.

Elisabeth Mork-Eidem, group events director for AgriBriefing, which organises the event, said: “The LAMMA show is a key part of the industry calendar, and we have seen an amazing amount of support from all our loyal exhibitors.”

DRAINAGE DRAINAGE LIMITED (20) LTD the Land Drainage Specialists the Land Drainage Specialists

••Agricultural Agricultural&& •Amenity Agricultural & Amenity Drainage Drainage Amenity Drainage ••Water Water Supplies, Supplies, •Mole WaterDraining Supplies, Mole Mole Draining ••Ditching Ditching & • Ditching & Ancillary Works • Utility Installation Ancillary Works Lodge Works, Great Ashfield, LodgeStWorks, Great Ashfield, Bury Edmunds, Bury StIP31 Edmunds, Suffolk 3HA Suffolk IP31 3HA MEMBER OF THE MEMBER OF THE LAND DRAINAGE CONTRACTORS ASSOCIATION

INDUSTRIAL DOORS & STEEL BUILDINGS www.sclnorfolk.co.uk 6 ANGLIA FARMER • DECEMBER 2020

LAND DRAINAGE CONTRACTORS ASSOCIATION

TEL 01359 259424 FAX 01359 258073 TEL 01359TEL 259424 01359 258073 01359FAX 259424 www.milesdrainage.co.uk www.milesdrainage.co.uk www.milesdrainage.co.uk

Bale and silage wrap must be disposed of properly

Illegal farm waste seized at ports

F

armers are being urged to tic packaging waste such as fertilensure contaminated plas- iser bags or compost bags. tic waste is disposed of legally following an increase in sei- Duty of care zures at shipping ports.

Farmers may keep plastic waste The Environment Agency says for up to 12 months before removit has intercepted numerous ille- al from the farm, storing differgal shipments of waste – including ent types separately such as dirty silage wrap – which were destined plastic films and plastic pesticide for countries around the world. containers.

Waste cannot be exported withNFU environment policy adout special permission. viser Philippa Arnold said: “We In order to legally export con- have a legal duty of care when taminated agricultural plastic disposing of our waste, so don’t waste, UK farm businesses must be afraid to ask where the waste obtain prior consent from both the is going or ask for evidence that source country and its destination, the waste company is authorised alongside all countries through to store or treat it.” which it travels.

The NFU is reminding its The rules cover use a wide members to check the EnvironrangeEquipment of plastic products, such as -ment Agency website ensure - Livestock - Feed Fertiliser - Seed - CashtoFlow plastic sheeting and films, as well- Building their plastic waste collector is a Diversification Projects - Debt Consolidation as plastic pots and trays, and plas- registered waste carrier – and

to obtain a waste transfer note with an accurate description of the waste as proof of collection.

CLA president’s award for Caroline Cranbrook Suffolk farmer and food campaigner Caroline Cranbrook (pictued below) has received the Country Land & Business Association President’s Award for outstanding loyalty and service.

The Countess of Cranbrook, of Great Glemham, near Saxmundham, became an active member of the CLA in the 1970s, joining the Suffolk branch committee, as well as sitting on the agriculture and land use committee in London.

She said: “The President’s Award is a great honour – and also a great pleasure to receive such an accolade from the organisation which has been an important part of my life ever since I came to live in Suffolk in 1970 and became a farmer.”

CLA president Mark Bridgeman said: “Our members work extremely hard to champion, protect and enhance the rural economy, and the President’s Award is a great way of showing our appreciation to those who go the extra mile.”

Additional guidance Farmers should seek additional guidance on the handling, segregation and storage of bulky or soiled plastic wraps, sheeting and films before they are removed from the farm. Doing so can improve collection and recycling.

Options for recycling agricultural non-packaging plastic are - Fertiliser - Seed - Cash Flow Equipment - Livestock - Feed more limited because are not Diversifi cation they Projects - Building - Debt Consolidation subject to such legislation and because the plastics are difficult to recycle due to contamination.

Improving availability of facilities and minimising costs for recycling or disposal of non-packaging plastics therefore needs to be addressed says the NFU.

Equipment - Livestock - Feed - Fertiliser - Seed - Cash Flow Diversification Projects - Building - Debt Consolidation

Equipment -- Livestock Flow Equipment Livestock -- Feed Feed -- Fertiliser Fertiliser -- Seed Seed -- Cash Cash Flow Diversification Projects Projects -- Building Building -- Debt Debt Consolidation Diversification Consolidation

• • • • •

Finance from £10k to £5m Excellent rates 6 month to 10 year terms Tax efficient Simple, quick phone application

• • • •

Decision within 24 hours Bad credit history, large debts – no problem!

High street banks unsupportive Tenant farmers welcome

We bring the personal touch back into farm finance.

For the personal touch ring Dean Pollen on 07769 705004 dean.pollen@abfltd.co.uk DECEMBER 2020 • ANGLIA FARMER 7

Arable Potato growers win harvest battle against wet weather

P

otato growers have overcome a second successive wet harvest to produce decent yields following a challenging season.

This year’s potato harvest is likely to reach 5.3m tonnes – up 2.8% on last year but just below the five-year average of 5.4m tonnes, according to estimates from the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board.

Growers have fared better than last year, with just 2% of the planted area yet to be lifted as Anglia Farmer went to press shortly after 10 November. This compares with 11% of the crop still in the ground on 12 November 2019.

This production figure follows an AHDB estimate that the planted area

this year is the third lowest on record.

This overall net yield sits in line with the five-year national average up to and including 2019.

Variable yields AHDB senior analyst Alice Bailey said: “Anecdotal reports suggest that yields have been somewhat variable from farm to farm, even field to field. Yet overall, crops are within farm expectations so it is not surprising that the national yield is in line with recent years.

“We saw planted area drop by 2.3% this year, yet we are estimating a 2.8% rise in production. This is based on both a slight increase in yields year-on-year and the fact that a large area was left unharvested last year.”

FOR HIRE MT 765C•95E•85E•75E•55•45&35 all models in stock and available

Available with...

GPS Guidance Creep Speed Transmissions Front Linkages Hydraulic Pick Up Hitches

The 2019 unlifted area was estimated at 6%, whereas less than 1% was estimated to be left in the ground in 2018.

Ms Bailey said she we would anticipate similar this year.

The estimate could be amended in the coming weeks, with some potatoes still to harvest across eastern England – and some members of the 450 strong AHDB Grower Panel still to return their survey information.

Marketing campaign A winter promotional campaign over the coming weeks will encourage shoppers to eat more potatoes. It follows a similar campaign in the summer that reached 5m shoppers via catch-up TV, social media and display advertising.

THE LARGEST FLEET OF CHALLENGER TRACKED TRACTORS IN EUROPE all covered by our 24/7 backup service

Hire by the hour, week, month or year – it's your choice

Ian Houlgrave

03R41B

8 ANGLIA FARMER • DECEMBER 2020

Tel: 01507 466352 Mobile: 0780 134 3023 Fax: 01507 462812 Email: ian@ianhoulgrave.com

Act now to combat light leaf spot

Harvest conditions have been easier on some farms than others [photo credit: Tim Scrivener]

Wide area Positive samples were received from a wide geographic area. They included samples from Lincolnshire, Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire and Kent –

as well as further West from Somerset and Wiltshire, Scotland and the north of England.

Bayer commercial technical manager Ella Crawford said: “Light leaf spot infections in early November in crops in East Anglia, the south coast and the west of England are further evidence of the southerly march of this disease.”

Winter funcigide applications can protect lower crop canopies, and prevent disease spreading to the pods in the spring during stem extension. Fungicides only offer protectant activity, so timing sprays depends on catching the disease early.

“Where fungicides applications are being planned this side of Christmas, growers should consider using a product such as Proline which offers activity against light leaf spot as well as Phoma,” said Ms Crawford.

0

FI N A % N CE *

AHDB Potatoes strategy director Rob Clayton said the latest campaign was being launched in response to market conditions caused by the coronavirus pandemic. More details will be released soon.

Light leaf spot infections have been identified in oilseed rape crops across the UK – indicating that growers should remain vigilant for disease onset this winter and consider a fungicide spray before Christmas.

An increasing number of leaf samples have tested positive for light leaf spot since Bayer’s SpotCheck service re-opened for submissions from farmers and agronomists in October.

By 9 November, 50 out of 102 samples had revealed 10% incidence of light leaf spot or more, after three days of incubation. Of these, 19 samples showed 50% disease incidence or more.

Treat yourself to a big money-saver this Christmas The financial advantages of Claydon direct strip seeding now include 0% finance on our trusted range of drills. So you’ll be improving your profit margins even before you hit the fields.

Call your local dealer or Claydon now on 01440 820327.

www.claydondrill.com 01440 820 327 info@claydondrill.com

Establishing a better way

* 1 + 2 Annual Payments on 50% of the RRP or balance financed if lower. Example: Claydon T4 Hybrid Drill RRP £74,458. 50% of RRP £37,229 on a 1 + 2 profile gives 3 annual payments of £12,409.66. For business users only. Terms and conditions apply* Offer ends 22nd December 2020. The financing of new CLAYDON drills is available only through De Lage Landen Leasing Limited (“DLL”) in the UK for deliveries up to 22nd December 2020. This does not constitute an offer and is not binding on DLL. All applicants must be 18 or over and credit is for UK registered businesses only (subject to approval). Pricing information is a representative example only and is based on a HIRE PURCHASE basis with 3 x Annual instalments at £12,409.66, administration fees and option to purchase fee apply and is subject to availability. Unless specified quoted price above does not include VAT.VAT needs to be repaid in full upfront. Availability of financing is subject to approval by DLL and cannot be combined with any other campaign. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. DLL is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority only in respect of agreements regulated by the Consumer Credit Act 1974. This advertisement has been prepared for promotional purposes only. It is not meant as advice on how any transaction or aspect of it should be qualified from a legal, tax, accounting or other perspective. We cannot guarantee that any information provided in this document is complete or accurate or fit for your purposes. We recommend that you seek independent advice.

DECEMBER 2020 • ANGLIA FARMER 9

Arable

New-look descriptive lists for peas and beans

A

major revamp has seen the official variety list for pulse growers change from a Recommended List to a Descriptive List.

The change means information is more in line with modern grower requirements with options showcased to suit a range of systems, says the Processors and Growers Research Organisation (PGRO).

The Descriptive List is based on five-year rolling averages. Adjustments are made where new varieties have not been in trial for five years. The new list was launched on 19 November, with full details at www.pgro.org.

Yukon continues to show very good tolerance to downy mildew

Combining peas Yellow/white peas: Kameleon topped the yield rankings with 120%, closely followed by Orchestra at 115%. New for 2021 are Kaiman (Senova) and Raider (IAR Agri).

Green/blue peas: New for 2021

are Stroma (LS Plant Breeding), Kiravi (Senova), Greenway and Mikka (IAR Agri). Kactus emerged top of the yield rankings at 112%, followed by Bluetime and Stroma at 111%. Blueman came top for tolerance to downy mildew

with a rating of 8. Kactus, Karioka, Mikka, Croft and LG Aviator followed with 7.

Maple peas: Mantara and Rose will return to trials after a period of limited trialling.

Marrowfat: Akooma from LS

Plant Breeding is new to the 2021 list with a yield of 97% – 11% higher than Sakura with a very large seed size. Octavia and Banshee continue into year 4 of trials.

Winter beans Variety choice remains largely unchanged, with Vespa still the top yielding variety at 109%. Vincent and Norton, both from Senova, are new high-yielding additions to the list, subject to confirmed NL status.

Spring beans Seven varieties were new to the 2021 list. LG Viper and LG Sphinx from Limagrain and Bolivia and Allison from LS Plant Breeding will be added to the electronic versions of the list, subject to confirmed national list status.

Stella, Capri and Daisy from Saaten Union were added to the 2021 list. Stella is the top yielding variety with a yield of 108%, just ahead of highest yielding five-year variety Lynx.

Lynx and Yukon continue to show very good tolerance to downy mildew. Victus and Tiffany have reached five-year status for 2021, yielding 104 and 101% of controls respectively.

Raptor continues to produce good yields Spring bean variety LG Raptor continues to produce good yields and moves to a P2 rating at 105% over control.

“Yield is the most important factor for spring beans, and is a major focus in our breeding programme,” says Will Pillinger, of breeders Limagrain UK. “The success of this approach

can be seen as LG Raptor moves closer to recommendation offering extremely high yield potential that could see it out yielding the market leader by next season.”

This year LG Raptor showed good uniformity throughout the growing season which has translated into a uniform sample. It is

fairly early to mature, stands well and offers a good disease package including rust.

The variety is suitable for human consumption, fish feed and animal protein markets so offers a range of marketing opportunities. Limagrain says it expects Raptor to take a big bite into the 2021 spring bean area.

Spring bean variety LG Raptor moves to a P2 rating

For all your storage needs t: 01799 540057 e: info@kbbuildings.co.uk w: www.kbbuildings.co.uk 10 ANGLIA FARMER • DECEMBER 2020

SY SPLENDOR Splendid ‘til the last drop

The early maturing variety with high yields and very good quality for the brewing market.

Syngenta UK Ltd. Registered in England No. 849037.

CPC4 Capital Park, Fulbourn, Cambridge CB21 5XE. Tel: +44 (0) 1223 883400 Technical Enquiries: +44 (0) 800 1696058 Email: customer.services@syngenta.com Website: www.syngenta.co.uk VIBRANCE® Duo and the SYNGENTA logo are Trademarks of a Syngenta Group Company.

VIBRANCE® Duo (MAPP 17838) contains fludioxonil and sedaxane. 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

Arable

Surprise dry spell eases fears of wet autumn again for many, good conditions for spraying as well as for drilling was asking a bit too much.

Products like propyzamide and clomazone should not be applied post-emergence; carbetamide is the main option for post-emergence treatments at this time of year.

IN THE FIELD

A dry period during November helped ease fears of another wet autumn, says Richard Overthrow

I

t’s not often that this region is one of the wettest in the country but a ridiculous October with typically around 200mm of rain was unseasonal to say the least.

Despite my suggestions last month that most will have given up until spring, a dry window in November allowed some further drilling to be done and many completed their winter cereal programme, even putting in all their bean acreage.

The later sown cereal crops shouldn’t need as much herbicide input as earlier sowings which is just as well given that spraying opportunities are rare at this time of year.

There have been issues with some of the winter bean crops sown where pre-emergence treatment is almost the only option but

Cereal crops In cereal crops, we should be wary of any mild spells in December that might kick-start aphid activity – and virus spread. That said, conditions throughout the main flight window were not good.

This means numbers of resident aphids will be low. It’s generally only the September-sown wheat and barley crops that attracted significant numbers and these have mostly been treated.

Conditions last month may

Mild weather could increase the risk of barley yellow dwarf virus

also have been unsuitable for the sequence of drilling and pre-emergence spraying immediately after and some later sown cereal crops have not been treated.

Many of the residual products can be applied early post-emergence but some have a latest application date of the end of this month – check this if still hoping to treat.

Herbicide levels Remember also that the level of herbicide input need not be high for these later sowings and a complex stack could compromise crop health anyway, reducing its competitive ability.

In NIAB TAG trials we regularly see a negative trade-off between herbicide input and crop strength in this way, leading to more grass weeds from higher herbicide input.

Soil conditions are more or less suitable – temperature-wise if not travel-wise – for propyzamide application to oilseed rape. Even if not, few growers are prepared to wait much beyond the end of November to apply it.

There was one recent season when the appropriate soil temperature didn’t occur until March, so some compromise is often necessary. Applying to warm soils in September and early October will shorten the active’s useful life but even if soils are warm now we should get sufficient persistence from it.

Timely tips • Watch for issues with winter bean crops • Mild weather can trigger aphids in cereals • Check latest application dates for sprays • Adjust herbicide levels for later sowings • Check rape for cabbage stem flea beetle Light leaf spot Early phoma infections were treated but in many crops these have only appeared recently and these are unlikely to form yield-robbing stem cankers so any late autumn fungicides should target light leaf spot, if this is required.

Crops should also be checked carefully for presence and numbers of cabbage stem flea beetle larvae, not with a view to treating as nothing is effective, but to have an idea of likely damage and hence yield potential and level of justifiable expenditure from this point on.

It goes without saying that fields destined for spring cropping may also be a little wet now so should be left alone.

Winter cultivations, even winter spraying-off, rarely helps and with the equipment available today leaving these operations until just prior to sowing can be just as effective in terms of cleaning up weeds and preparing seedbeds. › Richard Overthrow is a regional agronomist with NIAB TAG, the UK’s largest independent agronomy organisation with several research centres in East Anglia. For more details, call 01223 342495.

Grain storage and handling

JH Vaudrey & Son Ltd

Steel framed buildings Groundworks All types of concrete Turnkey projects

Phone: 01379 678459 Email: info@jhvaudrey.co.uk

www.jhvaudrey.co.uk 12 ANGLIA FARMER • DECEMBER 2020

For Triton SALES, PARTS & SERVICE deal direct with the manufacturer

· Unique inter row surface drainage and drying groove · Unique 125mm drainage and aeration slot directly under every seed · Unique self cleaning seed depth control bar · Unique self cleaning Side-Press for unrivalled seed slot closure in heavy soils negating need for roller presses and covering harrows · Made in the UK all features patent awarded 2019 Triton UK (East Anglia and Midlands): 01223 891888 • Triton South East (Covenbrook): 07860417643 (John) Triton South & West: 07970549012 (Richard) • Triton North & Scotland: 07712831718 (Steve)

Arable

5

Metabolic resistance can be overcome at an early blackgrass growth stage

things to consider with a late autumn post-em

1 Check weed levels Many October drilled crops went into wet or less than ideal seedbeds, leading to slow establishment and lower pre-em effica-

cy. Drilling was the priority, so the pre-em programme was often delayed or missed altogether in some cases.

Wet and cloddy seedbeds both affect pre-em performance so many crops have fairly high weed levels in need of control.

Earlier-drilled wheat is also likely to have grass weed pressure despite good establishment and good conditions for the preem.

2 Control blackgrass Small plants with 1-2 leaves are typically more susceptible to post-em sprays like Atlantis OD (mesosulfuron + iodosulfuron) and Hamlet (mesosulfuron + iodosulfuron + diflufenican).

At early growth stages, the dose of active can overcome metabolic resistance, whereas large plants in spring are more able to survive. Maximising blackgrass control will pay dividends by im-

5-year warranty *

SH EN INE ERI

T BRI EA

G

TI

G

GR *Manufacturer’s warranty on fans only.

01621 868 138 | agricultural@gibbonsgroup.co.uk | www.gibbonsgroup.co.uk Woodrolfe Road, Tollesbury, Maldon, Essex CM9 8RY

14 ANGLIA FARMER • DECEMBER 2020

N

S

ettled weather is providing an opportunity to control problem weeds with contact-acting herbicides before they get out of hand. Darren Adkins of Bayer outlines five tips for late autumn sprays.

proving yields and reducing seed return for future seasons”

3 Protect against further germination With the trend to milder winters, weeds can continue germinate even in December and January. Applying additional residual herbicides, mixed with the postem or as a standalone top up will give crops added protection.

4 Effective application Apply a fine–medium spray to a dry or drying leaf with plenty of drying time before dew formation. Active growth is important – be wary of applying when temperatures drop close to zero as weeds may become dormant and not take in the herbicide.

5 Check BYDV risk Returning to the crop to apply a post-em may be an opportunity to use an aphicide to control aphid vectors of barley yellow dwarf virus if there is risk. Use the T-Sum calculator and walk crops to decide if you need to spray.

Run with the greatest market potential.

ELICIT Winter Wheat

In uncertain conditions, grow a wheat that will give you the most market access. Elicit is the least variable of the group 3 varieties and offers consistently high yields.* Approved for export, domestic milling and distilling Powerful resistance to rusts Superb physical grain quality Speak to your seed merchant today about availability. *NIAB TAG variety interactions handbook 2020.

01775 715000 www.elsoms.com

60

The Specialists for: • Grain Storage Systems • Handling and Drying • Mill and Mixing • Engineering Solutions

Units 5&6 Fullers Business Centre, Riverside View, Wickham Market, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP13 0TA

Telephone: 01728 746200 Facsimile: 01728 747666 Email: allfarmuk@yahoo.co.uk

HGV ACCESS TRACKWAY & TURNING PADS. WHICH WOULD YOU RATHER?

HEAVY DUTY TRACKWAY FOR HIRE OR PURCHASE

W / all-weatheraccess.co.uk T / 01371 700 510 16 ANGLIA FARMER • DECEMBER 2020

Arable

Consider early fungicide to keep lid on barley disease

H

igh disease pressure in winter barley crops means growers should consider treating susceptible varieties with an early fungicide, says agronomy firm Hutchinsons.

Mild, wet weather has favoured the spread of several diseases in early-sown crops across much of the UK – particularly net blotch, rhynchosporium, powdery mildew and brown rust, says technical development director David Ellerton.

Risk has been compounded by the large area of spring barley grown last season, which resulted in more barley volunteers emerging this autumn, from which infection can transfer to the new crop, he says.

“This combination of more in-

oculum on volunteers alongside mild, wet conditions, has been perfect for autumn barley diseases, although later drilled crops generally aren’t as badly affected.”

The situation is worst in varieties with low disease ratings of 4 or below – and where there are a lot of volunteers from previous winter or spring barley crops.

Manganese deficiency can also make crops more susceptible to mildew infection.

Dr Ellerton says this increased disease risk may be enough to justify an autumn or early spring fungicide application prior to stem extension, to prevent disease infections reducing the crop’s tillering capacity and yield potential.

Yield responses of over 0.5 t/ha could be possible, says Dr Eller-

ED1603 DOE SHOW 61 AD v4.qxp_Layout 1 25/11/2020 14:55 Page 1

DON’T MISS BY FAR THE LARGEST AGRICULTURAL, CONSTRUCTION AND GROUNDCARE DEALER SHOW IN THE UK

impossible for growers to travel on fields to apply an autumn fungicide, but insists it is worth doing in high-risk crops if the opportunity arises.

“If disease is allowed to get established it will start to take out tillers and stress the crop, making it less able to cope with difficult weather later in the season.”

E V LI

with a difference

ton. Products containing prothioconazole will give the best control of net blotch, rhynchosporium and mildew. Additional tebuconazole will be necessary for brown rust.

“These products should generally be applied at half to three quarters dose depending on disease pressure.”

He acknowledges that wet ground conditions could make it

NN IIOOIITTHH CTT W UUC W AA NN YY TIIOO EERR AAT IINN CCII CCHH SSOO AA SS MM AA IINN

DOE SHOW61

Wet autumn weather has seen mildew on some barley crops

25th January to 4th February 2021

61st

DOE SHOW with with aa difference difference

WE WILL BRING THE DOE SHOW TO YOU Keep checking our website – more information to follow soon...

#doeshow2021

www.ernestdoe.com

DECEMBER 2020 • ANGLIA FARMER 17

Arable Profile: Helmingham Estate

Glenn Buckingham manages the home farm on the Helmingham estate in Suffolk.

A future where farms can flourish Building back better has to mean building back greener, says Suffolk farmer Glenn Buckingham. Judith Tooth reports

G

lenn Buckingham sees a stark future for farmers without urgent and comprehensive action to curb greenhouse gas emissions. But he also sees a much brighter picture, where farms can flourish, if that action is taken.

Farm manager of the Helmingham estate’s home farm for the past 30 years, and NFU county chair for the past three, Glenn set out two very different imaginary news updates in the year 2055 in his recent monthly columns for the regional NFU members’ magazine. He wanted to show what a difference acting ambitiously on the climate crisis could make.

The first reported another poor cereal harvest because of extreme summer drought and a mild wet winter. Temperatures hadn’t fallen below 10°C, affecting vernalisation of winter-sown crops.

Fossil fuel consumption was beginning to decline but was still at 60 million barrels a day, and renewable energy schemes had faltered due to continued negative lobbying by fossil fuel companies.

Food security The second scenario described an excellent harvest, with food security up to 87 per cent. The carbon footprint of food had dropped by 90% in the past 30 years, home-grown fruit and vegetable production continued to rise year on year and food waste was negligible.

Global fossil fuel consumption, now at just four million barrels a day, continued to fall, and the carbon cost of elec18 ANGLIA FARMER • DECEMBER 2020

ly since the Hall was completed in 1510.

Glenn farms 800ha, 525ha of which is combinable crops – wheat, winter and spring barley and oilseed rape.

Red and fallow deer, and sheep, graze in the parkland surrounding Helmingham Hall, and 50 meadows averaging 2ha a piece are used for grazing or hay. It’s a rolling landscape with around 67km of hedgerows.

tricity now averaged 27 grammes per kilowatt, compared to 260g/kw in 2020.

“I think we lack vision at the moment, but the pandemic has given us an example of how we can react, and helped us understand the need to redirect our efforts. We need to galvanise our farming unions globally.”

Hill Farm, Framsden, is one of six tenanted farms on the estate – which has been home to the Tollemache famiAutumn fruits for wildlife: there are 67kms of hedgerow at Hill Farm

After crop failure from flea beetle damage last autumn, this season’s oilseed rape crop is looking healthy.

Pragmatic approach Glenn describes his approach to farming as “realistic, pragmatic and mindful of resource consumption”. Cultivations are a case in point: while the farm’s former plough-based system used more than 110 litres of diesel per hectare, it dropped to 47l/ha with direct drilling. But problems developed with the change in system, and a min till approach is now used, using around 62l/ha.

“We started direct drilling in 2000,” he says. “With staff retiring and grain prices under £75 a tonne, it made sense.

I was part of a syndicate for a while, and then went down the Claydon route.”

But autumn 2012 was a very different season, and I think no till can have limitations in our climate: there are differences with the Continent and further afield. Glenn was seeing an increase in blackgrass, and, while we could use glyphosate, in-crop herbicides were running out of steam.

“We had to change: we introduced more spring cropping, waited for chitting in the autumn and moved to min till, with just one cultivation before drill- >>

FOR ALL DRAINAGE AND SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANT NEEDS Is your property off the main sewage network? Do you have a septic tank? If so, we can install a new sewage treatment plant and provide a maintenance service.

As well as servicing existing treatment plants.

ROOFING, CLADDING & INSULATION MATERIAL FOR INDUSTRIAL AGRICULTURAL & DOMESTIC USE

We also supply... composite panels, fibre cement sheeting, accessories, fixings, fillers, mastics and can deliver to almost anywhere in the UK

t. 01449 737192 f. 01449 736666 e. rob@peterwraggesupplies.co.uk www.peterwraggesupplies.co.uk

Sewage Treatment Plant and Servicing

Ditching, Hedging, Flailing

Trimble RTK GPS Land drainage ELMS FARM, WELLS CORNER, LAXFIELD, SUFFOLK IP13 8EG

Tel 01986 798888 accounts@lescottoncontractors.co.uk

DECEMBER 2020 • ANGLIA FARMER 19

GIBSON’S SEEDS SEED GROWERS, PROCESSORS & MERCHANTS

Varieties of C2 Seed Autumn 2020 KWS Zyatt, KWS Extase, KWS Firefly, KWS Kerrin, LG Skyscraper, Gleam, RGT Gravity, KWS Crispin Spring 2021 Wheat - KWS Cochise Suppliers of certified seed throughout East Anglia Seed cleaning and dressing undertaken R A Gibson (Colesden) Ltd Bell Farm, Colesden, Bedford. T: 01234 376 284 E: office@ragibson.co.uk W: www.ragibson.co.uk

W R Suckling & Sons

Land drainage specialists and contractors Ancient House Chapel Street Steeple Bumpstead Nr Haverhill Suffolk CB9 7DQ

0

33

:

7 07

ob

M

57

5 21

er

v ro

o df

e

ars

e 0y

8

n ke

rta

e nd

d u and er wl d a r 0 lle c 73 ss es s prep ith a lough insta p ins e 40 ine g w le a em ipe s 14 ch inin d mo er m ic p s u 0 t a e t b r s e le l: ily rainag ole d trai nd wa of pla enanc Te m t M u s D r o Fa ain lie rgr de Supp tch m n U Di

6 71

sh

li tab

d are

an

Graders, washers, tipplers and fillers - trust Haith to handle it. t +44 (0) 1302 831911 e sales@haith.co.uk Haith Advert Templates ART.indd 1

www.haith.co.uk 29/11/2018 10:14

LOWER OAKLEY, DISS, NORFOLK IP21 4AQ

Grain Handling & Milling Systems • Manufacturers of steel framed building, grain stores, livestock buildings general purpose building and commercial building • All building designed in house to EN1090-2, and erected with our own employed staff • Grain drying and handling systems supplied and installed

• All ground and civils works under taken to provide a turnkey project

All groundworks undertaken All buildings constructed CE marked DIN1090

Tel: 01692 535444 / 07717 478196 E: andrew@mconstructionservices.co.uk

W: www.mconstructionservices.co.uk

20 ANGLIA FARMER • DECEMBER 2020

Arable Profile: Helmingham Estate ing. That seems to be about right for the Beccles and Hanslope soils here, and it’s one system that works across the farm.”

Greater accuracy through GPS guidance on the farm’s main tractor and combine has also contributed to the reduction in diesel use, by 5-7%. Variable seed rate application has had less impact, perhaps because soils across the farm are quite uniform.

But nozzle controls have increased accuracy of fertiliser applications – which is just as well, because at least 3.5kg of carbon is lost for every one of inorganic nitrogen fertiliser applied, according to Glenn.

Carbon footprint “About 40% of an arable farmer’s carbon footprint is down to fertiliser – so it’s one of the targets we must look at.

I think we should be encouraged to analyse the nitrogen content of the grain we produce, because if it’s too high, it shows we’ve over-applied.”

Pesticides are responsible for probably another 40 per cent of carbon emissions, he says, and the more they’re used, the higher the footprint. Using resistant varieties, integrated pest management and companion crops are all

“

The pandemic has given us an example of how we can react

Deer graze in the parkland surrounding Helmingham Hall

part of the solution to a more sustainable farming system. Late insecticides haven’t been used on cereals for probably 20 years, and he’s stopped using pre-harvest glyphosate on them, too.

Glenn is trying companion cropping

for the first time this autumn, growing buckwheat, berseem clover and fenugreek with oilseed rape. Last autumn, the oilseed rape crop was lost to cabbage stem flea beetle, while winter cereals were drilled without incident. This time around, the oilseed rape looks very healthy, but drilling cereals has been difficult.

Winter barley was all in by mid-October using the farm’s Vaderstad Rapid drill. But, with persistent rainfall, it was going to be too heavy to drill wheat >>

he y 40s in t dustr ar in ye tter u sh

DRAIN LAND. RAISE YIELDS. Grow for tomorrow DRAIN LAND. RAISE YIELDS.

STEEL

Grow for tomorrow

ROLLER

SHUTTER

EXPERTS IN YOUR FIELD SINCE 1962 DOORS EXPERTS IN YOUR FIELD SINCE 1962 We offer a made-to-measure solution to secure workshops and grain stores • Steel roller shutters can be operated by hand chain or electric using 3 phase or single phase motors • Standard finish is galvanised with colour options of Plastisol or Powder Coating • Access doors built into the shutter or positioned in the existing walls are also available • Shutters can be made up to 8m wide with wind anchors standard over 4.5m • With 40 years experience in the roller shutter industry call us anytime for a competitive price.

■ Land Drainage

■ Land Drainage

■ Ditching

■ Ditching Storm and Dirty Water Management

■ Storm and Dirty Water Management ■ Farm Tracks & Road Reconstruction ■ Farm Tracks & Road Reconstruction ■ Wetland Environmental Schemes

www.williammorfoot.co.uk e: david@russellmillarltd.co.uk www.williammorfoot.co.uk 01362 820371 team@williammorfoot.co.uk ■ Wetland Environmental Schemes

t: 01353 725 151

01362 820371 team@williammorfoot.co.uk DECEMBER 2020 • ANGLIA FARMER 21

Arable Profile: Helmingham Estate on the wet clay soils. Anticipating the problem, Glenn went back to basics, and lined up two 1970s Nordsten Lifto-Matic drills, one borrowed, one picked up second hand.

Climate change “They’re lightweight so I thought they’d be good in wet conditions. And drilling went well: we completed the job and the crops are up. We would not have done it with our other machines.”

Glenn would like to see the carbon footprint of farming given higher priority in education: “How much is taught in agricultural college syllabuses? I discussed this with Lord Deben, who chairs the independent committee on climate change, earlier this year, and he was keen to follow it up.

“We also need standardisation of a carbon footprinting tool.”

Six years ago every arable hectare on the farm was tested for soil organic matter levels to provide a base against which future tests can be compared. And cover crops are under consideration.

“We ought to be growing them – so what’s stopping us? I think it’s understanding their total value to the farm,

Glenn Buckingham is trying companion cropping for the first time this autumn, growing buckwheat, berseem clover and fenugreek with oilseed rape.

fitting in another job, and cost. But I certainly should be moving the farm down the regenerative farming route, and having no bare soil would be the ambition.”

A broader hope is to see a change from the country’s centralised food system to a more localised one: “We need to engage, understand and buy local, and I think there should be an incentive for farmers around towns and cities to grow for those local populations. And, going forward, we need to look at the Environmental Land Management scheme, and ask, is it right, is it fit?

“As for the government’s 10-point plan for a green recovery, is there anything there for agriculture apart from planting trees? Trees are great, yes, they will absorb carbon in time – and if they are fruit or nut trees, they will provide us with food, too – but we need action much sooner to reduce carbon emissions.

“It’s almost a systems rethink: build back better definitely needs to be build back greener. Society, given choices and the starkness of the situation, will change lifestyle, and agriculture will change and respond – though it could be difficult for some sectors.”

Industrial & agricultural doors • Industrial gates & barriers & SHUTTERSgates Ltd Industrial & agricultural doors BLINDS • Industrial & barriers BLINDS & SHUTTERS Ltd

One of the market leaders in manufacturing, supplying, One of the market leaders in manufacturing, supplying, installing, repairs and maintenance of all types of industrial installing, repairs and maintenance of all types of industrial doors, gates and barriers throughout East Anglia. doors, gates and barriers throughout East Anglia.

01603 410 304 01603 410 304 sales@cooksdoors.co.uk sales@cooksdoors.co.uk www.cooksdoors.co.uk www.cooksdoors.co.uk 22 ANGLIA FARMER • DECEMBER 2020

Crop drying, ventilation and storage systems specialists.

Flach & Le-Roy Ltd is an industry leader in designing and delivering high performance drying, ventilation & storage systems.

We have been supplying top quality drive-on and box store drying and storage installations to the arable farming industry globally for over 27 years and our business is continuing to grow.

Drive-on Floor Systems • Letter Box Duct Systems • Control Systems Centrifugal & Axial-Flow Fans • Gas Burners • Walling Systems

35 years experience in the industry

10 year Guarantee Manufactured in England

“Drive on Drive off ” systems

Flach & Le-Roy Ltd

Telephone: 01480 495956 Mobile: 07774 141512 Email: enquiries@flruk.com Website: www.flr-cropdrying.com

Dales Agri Sales Agency THE GRASSLAND SPECIALISTS

Erth Agriseeder direct drill / slot seeder

Cost effective PK fertiliser Reduce your environmental footprint with free secondary and trace elements

Fibrophos grades England and Wales

Scotland

0 - 12 - 12 0 - 00 - 20 0 - 05 - 20 0 - 09 - 18 0 - 14 - 21 0 - 20 - 10

0 - 16 - 16 0 - 14 - 21 0 - 05 - 25

by applying totally renewable Secondary elements elements phosphateTrace and potash fertiliser

• Keep input costs down • Maintain and improve soil PK indices • Apply secondary elements at no cost • Gain the benefit of free trace elements Calcium 18% as CaO • UK produced – environmentally sustainable Sulphur 8%time and as wastage SO3 • Efficiently applied by contractor – save • Help improve crop vigour and health4% Sodium as Na2O • Improve grass palatability Magnesium 4% as MgO • Pay after application – no storage or cash outlay

Iron 4000 ppm as Fe Manganese 1200 ppm as Mn Copper 300 ppm as Cu • UK produced – low transport costs Boron 130 ppm as B Molybdenum 5 ppm neutral as Mo • Made from green electricity – carbon Cobalt 2 ppm as Co 20/12/2016 12:28 • Delivered in bulk – no plastics 2used Selenium ppm as Se

fibrophos_flyer_2016.indd 1

Neutralising value 15% • Contractor applied – no wastage

SMS seed roller

as CaO

Save costs – and the environment Apply competitively priced Fibrophos PK fertiliser Erth Panbuster low disturbance subsoiler

0800 690 6209

Charlie Halliday 07780 928560

Taylor 07967 808285 0800Robert 690 6209 info@hatcher.co.uk www.fibrophos.co.uk www.fibrophos.co.uk www.dalesagrisalesagency.co.uk fibrophos_flyer_2016.indd 2

20/12/2016 12:28

New range of T17 front mounted seeding units Ideal for cover crop seeding when used in combination with a rear cultivator.

Tank capacities of 250, 400, 600 and 800 litres.

Boom widths of 3, 4, 5 and 6 metres.

Electric or Hydraulic fan drive.

Prices start from £2,800 plus delivery & VAT

Office: 01684 311812 Nigel: 07850 825980 Ross: 07815CULTIVATOR 110529 NEW KOBALT Email: info@bullocktillage.co.uk Contact The new Kobalt range of tined cultivators from 24 ANGLIA FARMER • DECEMBER 2020

BULLOCK TILLAGE come in 3, 4, 5 and 6 metre working widths. Due to it’s 4 bar design, packer and following harrow, the Kobalt is the ideal cultivator for optimum straw distribution

Office: 01684 311811 Nigel: 07850825980

Conservation & Land Management

Farmers are keen to do more environmental work – but need more clarity.

Confidence needed to build faith in environmental land management • More clarity needed on ELM scheme • Farmers keen to improve environment • Concern over farm business profitabilty

F

armers are keen to do more to protect and enhance the environment – but have concerns about the government’s forthcoming Environmental Land Management (ELM) scheme.

More clarity is needed about the shift away from Basic Payments to the new system of farm support under ELMs, reveals a

survey carried out by the Country Land & Business Association (CLA) and Strutt & Parker.

Some 80% of respondents were concerned about losses in biodiversity. The same percent-

“

We are determined to help meet the challenges ahead

age agreed with the idea of paying land managers for the “public goods” of looking after the environment and helping to mitigate climate change.

Higher priority More than half reported they were already taking action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and 64% said a sense of personal responsibility would motivate them to make climate change a higher priority in terms of managing their land and property.

Four out of five respondents said they were either likely or very likely to join ELMS, or an equivalent scheme, when it becomes fully available in 2024.

But many farmers said more clarity was needed about how the scheme will work.

CLA president Mark Bridgeman said: “It’s very encouraging to see that mitigating climate change and reversing biodiversity decline is at the top of many

farming businesses’ priority list.”

It was also encouraging farmers were keen to take part in the government’s new ELMS scheme, added Mr Bridgeman. “The public can see the impact of biodiversity loss and climate change and understandably they expect us to act.

Uniquely placed “As stewards of the countryside, we are uniquely placed to deliver meaningful programmes that will drive environmental recovery, and we are determined to play our part in meeting the challenges ahead.”

Farmers said they were likely to sign up to measures supporting pollinators by increasing pollen and nectar sources (78%), providing seed habitats to support woodland birds over winter (73%) and tree planting to absorb carbon (57%).

But there were lower levels of continued on page 26

SOIL TESTING – COMPACTION, PH etc 01452 741 112 www.agrisupplyservices.co.uk info@goldingham-contracts.co.uk

AGRICULTURAL SUPPLY SERVICES DECEMBER 2020 • ANGLIA FARMER 25

Conservation & Land Management

Land management “The CLA believes ELMs has the potential to be a world-leading land management policy, but there are clear risks associated with transitioning from the old system to the new. Ministers should consider these findings carefully.”

James Farrell, head of rural at Strutt & Parker, said it was important to understand what farmers were feeling about ELMs because they had a vital role to play in reducing the UK’s greenhouse gas emissions to Net

Survey summary

64%

expect switch from direct payments to ELMs reduce farm profitability

76%

are concerned that payments will be insufficient [source: CLA/Strutt & Parker]

continued from page 25 support for options such as growing energy crops (25%) or planting trees to slow flood waters (35%).

Respondents also signalled that they did have concerns about how ELMS will operate.

Mr Bridgeman said: “These results do show, however, some trends that will concern government, whose optimism for the move towards ‘public money for public goods’ is clearly not shared by all farmers.

57%

are concerned administration

will be poor

44%

are worried that ELMs will not deliver the desired environmental benefits

Zero by 2050.

“There is a lack of confidence within the sector about the implementation of ELMS and highlights there are some actions, particularly those which require permanent land use changes, where landowners may be less willing to get involved.

“We hope that Defra can address this as they refine their plans for ELMS over the coming months.”

Residue management, Soil Conservation, No-Till. Is at the heart of Tillso

Sabre Tines Machine’s Advantage Ultralite Strato Mono / Max

Targeted restructuring without soil inversion

The unique technology in Tillso's Sabre Tines and wearing parts is both patented, and covered by registered designs. Spaldings Ltd are the sole licensed supplier of original Sabre Tine technology,

Tel: 01733 270 135

www.tillso.co.uk

26 ANGLIA FARMER • DECEMBER 2020

Local farmer featured on TV bee documentary

S

uffolk farmer Graham Denny (pictured, right) was enlisted by TV presenter Jimmy Doherty for his latest television programme – Jimmy’s Big Bee Rescue.

The two-part series examined ways to increase the number of bees and other pollinators. The show highlighted the vital role played by farmers like Graham, who farms at Earl Stonham, and is a keen conservationist.

Graham’s conservation success, particularly increasing farmland birds such as song thrushes, lesser redpoll and the iconic turtle dove, was recently highlighted in the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust initiative, Working for Wildlife.

He said: “My interest in conservation came from my father

Henry and my grandfather Victor who used to feed turtle doves and other songbirds in the yard with rolled barley and wheat.

The birds became quite tame and were very much part of the farm.”

Positive approach Graham is one of many farmers who have signed the Working for Wildlife pledge, calling for a more positive and long-term approach to conservation which embraces the views of the local community.

Discussing the programme, Jimmy said: “Since I was a kid, bees have declined so much one species has even become extinct.

We need to do everything we can to reverse this trend because they are more vital to our lives than we realise.”

Need a whole farm recycling solution?

Harby Agriculture provides a simple & easy waste solution to suit your farm.

To find out more contact Harby Agriculture on 01664 444 189 or email helen@harby.co.uk

www.harby.co.uk

Landowners join biggest ever nature restoration project A new initiative is bringing farmers together with conservationists to deliver an England-wide network for nature.

The Nature Recovery Network aims to restore protected sites and provide an additional 500,000ha of new wildlife-rich habitat across England – an ambition set out in the government’s 25 Year Environment Plan.

Led by Natural England, it brings together representatives from more than 600 organisations to restore landscapes in town and country. It is the biggest nature restoration initiative ever to be launched in England.

New approach Natural England chairman Tony Juniper said: “The natural world upon which we all depend has for far too long been in decline, and now is the moment when we must change our approach, to move be-

Morrisons helps egg producers create biodiverse farmland Supermarket chain Morrisons is giving an extra 1p per egg back to farmers on every For Farmers medium egg sold – so that they can create more biodiverse

farmland.

Money raised from sales of Morrisons For Farmers ‘Chuckle Eggs’ will be ploughed back into establishing better free-

range farmland for laying hens.

The retailer became the first major supermarket to sell only freerange eggs earlier this year.

Morrisons says its free-range

The retailer wants the extra money invested in environmental measures

yond preserving what little remains.”

Largescale nature recovery was a complex task that could only be realised if land managers, investors and policymakers worked together, added Mr Juniper. It was ambitious, but would bring huge benefits for wildlife, landscapes and people.

As well as making sure existing protected sites are in the best possible condition, the Nature Recovery Network programme will recover threatened animal and plant species, as well as wetlands, ponds, meadows, woodlands, and peatlands.

Partners include the Country Land and Business Association, Wildlife and Countryside Link, National Parks England and the RSPB. Government bodies include Defra, the Environment Agency and the Forestry Commission. hens cost farmers significantly more to keep as the retailer requires producers to plant fields with 20% trees. It also insists on enriched nesting boxes and special undercover shaded areas.

It says the extra investment may also be used by many farmers to create new or adapted buildings for their birds. Farms will also be encouraged to set aside land for wild bees and insects to increase their numbers.

The Morrisons agriculture team has helped to formulate a pollen and nectar rich flower mixture – to establish dedicated bumblebee and insect habitats.

For every 16,000 birds they have, farmers have been asked to plant one acre of seed mix.

Morrisons head of agriculture Sophie Throup said: “Improving animal welfare and looking after our farmed and natural environment is important for us and our customers. By giving back to our egg farmers, they can create the highest welfare outside and indoors.

“Planting woodland, pollen and nectar rich habitats will also bring huge and wider benefits to our countryside, and support sustainable food production into the future.”

DECEMBER 2020 • ANGLIA FARMER 27

Conservation & Land Management

Landowners earn money from building ponds for newts

James Peacock said: “Landowners can easily learn about the requirements needed to create suitable ponds, enter a price for which they can provide them, then apply for two to six ponds for their land.

The scheme was a win-win solution for everyone, said Mr Peacock. “Creating clusters of ponds in this way has been shown to maximise the chance of colonisation by great crested newts and improve population resilience.”

A

Natural England scheme is rewarding Cambridgeshire landowners for constructing ponds on their land for to improve great crested newt populations.

The agency partnered with EnTrade to create a sealed-bid auction where local landowners can set prices for creating the ponds and create new habitats for the newts away from land outlined for development.

Great crested newt populations in the UK have declined rapidly over the last century, despite being protected under UK and EU law, largely due to loss of habitat caused by building development and pond neglect.

Cost-effective The scheme has secured more than 125 new ponds since the auctions launched in March 2020. It

Important Natural England habitat delivery strategist Craig Thomas said Cambridgeshire was particularly important for great crested newts – with a strong likelihood that ponds in target areas would be colonised by newts.

“We use the EnTrade platform as an engagement tool, allowing us and our local Habitat Delivery Bodies to build long-term relationships with landowners to positively manage and monitor the new ponds over 25 years.”

Cambridgeshire is especially important for great crested newts.

means developers can complete projects quicker and more cost-effectively and farmers and land-

owners can create sustainable new revenue streams.

EnTrade product manager

• Steel portal framed buildings • Grain drying and storage • Groundworks and drainage

Mark Weatherhead

• Electrical engineering works



Steel Portal Framed Buildings



Grain Drying and Storage



Ground works and Drainage

Existing building conversions  Electrical Engineering

Works

_________________ Tel : 01954210355 E Mail : sales@markweatherhead.co.uk Scale Date

• Elevator/conveyor repairs

Telephone: 01954 210 355 Royston Depot TelMobile: : 01763 242361 07885 202 005

Hardwick, Cambs CB23 7QL

Title

Client

28 ANGLIA FARMER • DECEMBER 2020

23rd and 24th June 2021

SAVE THE DATES!

groundswellag.com

Temporary labour for farm, field & factory

VAN STOMP VAN S T O M P

Field workers Tractor and FLT

www.vanstomp.co.uk

Picking Packing Grading Rogueing Factory Staff Livestock care Hedging Groundwork Events staff General labour Christmas tree harvesting

Merry Christmas from all at Van Stomp

Looking for labour?

WE HAVE SKILLED AND UNSKILLED STAFF AVAILABLE NOW

Here to help!

Committed to supporting our farming community through these terrible times

40 years’ experience providing temporary and seasonal workers to o farmers, growers and related businesses across the UK. We can supply teams of staff or single workers throughout the year.

Fully GLAA and HSE compliant. Transport and supervision available as required.

Please call us to chat through your needs.

T: 01223 506384 E: jobs@vanstomp.co.uk Head Office: Dernford Barn, Sawston Road, Stapleford, Cambridge. CB22 5DY

Conservation & Land Management

Grass helps keep farm green – all year round • Benefits for soil health and wildlife • Add different dimension to rotation • Careful attention boosts farm profit

G

rowing grass for seed has been part of the rotation for 60 years at Lodge Farm, Westhorpe, Suffolk. And the contribution it makes to soil health, the farmed environment and profitability is as important now as it was in 1961.

Today, the 530ha family farm is run by cousins Patrick and Brian Barker. But their fathers, David and Roy respectively, remain important members of the team. And their enthusiasm for biodiversity and growing grass seed stretches across the generations.

It was out of concern for soil that the Barker family first grew grass seed – soon after Eric Barker took on the farm in 1957. Six decades later, their whole farm ecosystem approach means Lodge Farm is a demonstration farm for LEAF, Linking Farming and the Environment.

through a sea of mud, ruining the soil. ‘That’s the last time we grow sugar beet,’ my father said.”

In the early years, the Barkers grew seed for Goldsmith Seeds, which had a seed cleaning plant in nearby Bury St Edmunds. By the early 1980s, grass seed breeder and producer Barenbrug had bought out Goldsmith’s and set up a UK division.

At first, the Barkers grew agricultural varieties, mainly Aberystwyth S23 perennial ryegrass and S215 meadow fescue. Then they dabbled in Cocksfoot, Timothy and Red Fescue before switching to finer leaved and greener amenity grasses for sport and landscaping The family continues to supply Barenbrug today. It is one of 55 UK farmers growing a total of 3000t of seed – 75% of the compant’s UK’s requirement – for agriculture and amenity use.

Sticky when wet David explains: “We’re on Beccles series clay – very sticky when wet – and we were dragging trailers

“

Left: David, Patrick, Brian and Roy Barker at Lodge Farm

Spring sowing gives us two bites of the cherry

David and Roy Barker say grass is a valuable two-year break crop among the wheat, barley, beans and oilseed rape grown on the farm

Advances in machinery In the early days, grass was cut with a finger bar mower before it was harvested using up to three combines fitted with Draper-type pick-up headers – a slow, dusty operation, which was eventually re-

placed by direct combining.

In wet conditions, the grass would get stuck and hours would be spent pulling out the blockage. But the real breakthrough came with the Shelbourne Reynolds stripper header, manufactured just a few miles away at Stanton.

With this method, the seed is stripped from the living plant and very little grass stalk goes through the combine, improving daily output and reducing fuel usage. The grass can be mown after combining and sold as horse hay.

Quality seed Grass seed gains most of its weight in the final 10 days of maturity in the field, so timing of harvest is key to yield, quality and income, says Brian. “As it comes in, we need to reduce temperature and moisture as quickly as possible to protect quality and germination.

Invested in on-farm infrastructure helps achieve this at the start of the busy harvest period. Once continued on page 32 DECEMBER 2020 • ANGLIA FARMER 31

Conservation & Land Management continued from page 31 the seed is dry, it is heaped up and dressed following autumn cultivations and drilling. “When we started growing grass seed, it was never cleaned,” says Roy. “We’d turn it by hand to dry it, sack it up and send it off to the merchant.”

When Ipswich seed merchant Harold Sadd’s Seeds ceased trading in 1967, David and Roy’s father went to the company’s premises, and offered £100 for the seed

cleaning apparatus. That’s the equipment still used on the farm today.

Rotational benefits Grass is a valuable two-year break crop among the wheat, barley, beans and oilseed rape grown on the farm. Worm counts are healthy, soil structure is improved and nitrates are soaked up. The crop is undersown into spring barley.

“We direct drill the spring barley and grass seed into last year’s wheat stubble in March,” says David. “The barley is then harvested leaving the grass to develop ready for the following harvest.”

By not ploughing at this point in the rotation, moisture is conserved in the soil and grass plants are stronger going into winter. It pays dividends later too, with varieties yielding around 1.25t/ha.

“We go for spring sowing to give us two bites of the cherry: if grass hasn’t taken well can cut more seed in in September, whereas if we only start sowing in September, there’s the risk of slugs, and we might encourage blackgrass and other weeds.”

Agronomy advice is on hand from Helen Southall of Herbage Seed Services. Growers agree a participation contract with Barenbrug UK based on estimated yields, and receive payments throughout the year.

Boost for biodiversity Growing grass is also great for wildlife. It means the farm is green

Collins Farming & Forestry Services Ltd

TURN POPLAR AND ASH INTO CASH Don’t let timber quality deteriorate Safely harvest while it has value!

• • • • • •

ash and poplar dismantling and purchase hedge and woodland coppicing site clearance felling licence applications contract chipping supplier of dried and screened woodchip

m: 07850 988808 e: info@collinsfarmingandforestry.co.uk w: www.collinsfarmingandforestry.co.uk

32 ANGLIA FARMER • DECEMBER 2020

Eric Barker baling in the 1960s (this picture) and combining grass seed in the 1970s (left)

all year round, adding a completely different habitat in the rotation, providing food sources, breeding sites and nesting habitat for all sorts of wildlife.

These include brown hares, roe deer, barn owls, skylarks, meadow pippets, kestrels, buzzards – as well as grey partridge, which is

FARM WASTE PLASTICS RECYCLING (Fertiliser and seed bags, all sizes & types of spray containers & cardboard collected off farm).

Collections over East Anglia, further afield on request.

For more information please call Katherine Smith – 07590 850307 Tom Smith – 07801 416942

ANGLIA WASTE COLLECTION

Seek advice on rail route surveys, landowners warned

M

a target species under the farm’s Countryside Stewardship scheme.

Patrick says: “It’s the modern equivalent of traditional rotations, when large parts of every farm were grazed by horses and livestock. The grass delivers huge benefits to the farm and the wider ecosystem.”

ore than 900 eastern region landowners will be issued with licence agreements allowing experts to carry out ecology surveys as the East West Rail project takes shape between Bedford and Cambridge.

The rail project will connect East Anglia with central, southern and western England. In particular, it plans to build a line linking Oxford and Cambridge via Bicester, Milton Keynes and Bedford, largely using the trackbed of the former Varsity Line.

The surveys aim to build up a picture of the ecology along the proposed rail route so so mitigation measures can be put in place to support wildlife and habitats. Large

swathes of countryside along the planned route will be inspected.

Landowners issued with a licence agreement are being urged to seek professional advice to ensure they are fairly represented at what will be a critical stage for Edward Tabner says there will be concerns over access rights

the East West Rail development.

“There are bound to be concerns raised over access rights, disruption to business and general inconvenience caused by allowing third parties on to property,” said Edward Tabner, director at rural business consultants Cheffins.

“While not all landowners who have been issued with a licence for a survey will necessarily be affected by the planned development, this is the first stage in what will most likely end up in a compulsory purchase order for a handful of land and properties.”

Mr Tabner said the surveys may mean that access has to be taken during unsociable hours, particularly for the likes of bat surveys. Survey teams would be looking for evidence of reptiles, small mammals, and protected species.

“Any evidence found will be used to influence the design of the scheme and requirement for mitigation measures such as bat roosting boxes and newt ponds.

Ecology surveys now form an important study for all major infrastructure schemes.”

Advising farmers and landowners since 1825 Buying, selling and managing your most valuable assets can be a complex business. We make it easy and rewarding.

It pays to choose Cheffins.

Our Rural Professional team provide advice on farm agency, rural valuations, estate and asset management, strategic development land, compulsory purchase and compensation, grants and subsidies and renewable energy.

Cambridge 01223 213777 | camb.agric@cheffins.co.uk Ely 01353 654900 | ely.agric@cheffins.co.uk

7-R7 Cheffins Advising Farmers & Landowners Ad-186x132mm.indd 1

25/11/2020 12:16 DECEMBER 2020 • ANGLIA FARMER 33

Livestock Sheep sector hits back over minister’s ‘wrong’ no-deal Brexit comments

D

efra secretary George Eustice (pictured right) is under fire after suggesting that mixed farms could produce less lamb and more beef in the event of a no-deal Brexit.

The National Sheep Association said Mr Eustice should have better knowledge of the UK’s sheep farming enterprises after he made the suggestion during an interview on the BBC’s Andrew Marr show on Sunday, 15 November.

During the interview, Mr Eustice said: “If we are not importing as much beef from Ireland, then those mixed beef and sheep enterprises would be able to diversify into beef.”

Enraged farmers National Sheep Association chief executive Phil Stocker said: “Mr Eustice’s comments will have angered many of our nation’s sheep farmers, failing to identify the unique and varied nature of sheep enterprises across the country.

“To begin with, to suggest that many of our sheep farmers are mixed farmers is wrong,” he added. “This assumption will enrage sheep farmers across the UK who have structured their farms to focus on sheep.

“The fact we have many sheep farmers, especially younger farmers and new entrants to the sector who run their sheep on arable farms and on short term grass lets was completely ignored – simply switching to cattle would be impossible for them.”

‘Act of negligence’ It was hard to think Mr Eustice really believed what he said, added Mr Stocker. The interview had left people it was part of a “we don’t care” attitude or a willingness to see reduce the size, scale and diversity of the sheep sector.

Mr Stocker said: “The country’s sheep farmers work hard to supply a product that is predominantly ecological agriculture in nature, fed on grass and part of the creation of our iconic countryside.

“To allow British sheep farming to potentially be permanently damaged because the transition agreements to enable us to change to a different global supply chain aren’t put in place would

Manufacturers of top quality poultry feeds formulated to deliver consistent, high quality, value performance.

BROILER BREEDER

“

This assumption will enrage sheep farmers across the UK

BROILER

be an act of negligence on behalf of our government.”

Tenant Farmers Association chairman Mark Coulman said the suggestion that sheep farmers should consider diversifying into beef production, if the market was closed for exports of high quality lamb, were “not helpful to say the least”.

Concerted effort Mr Coulman said: “The farming community was hoping for much better than this. Somehow, we need to use the short time available to garner the strength to pull victory from the jaws of defeat, but this will require a concerted effort.”

LAYER

Manufactured in our mills in Scotland, East Anglia & Wales

0333 777 8522 | www.2agriculture.com 34 ANGLIA FARMER • DECEMBER 2020

DUCK

TURKEY

Wishing e a mer ry veryone Christm as and hap py New Ye ar

Biomass Fuel Recycled A Grade Woodchip Virgin Woodchip We supply Dry 0-10mm Cattle Bedding

Spread-a-Bale

®

ELS

HD

LA

BL

OD

AVA IL

A VA I

Mob: 07904899289 - Dave Bull Tel: 01244 394258 Email: sales@spread-a-bale.com

ELS OD

• AVAILABLE TO SUIT ANY SIZE OF BALE OR LOADER • PROVEN 50% STRAW SAVINGS LE ON ALL M AB • HIGH ANIMAL WELFARE E ON ALL M

BSL0090600-0002 Recycled BSL0090600-0006 ARB

01279 777666

VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE INFO WWW.SPREAD-A-BALE.COM

Email: janbor@btconnect.com www.janbor.co.uk

CALL FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO BOOK A DEMONSTRATION

We have sites in Hertfordshire and Norfolk

DECEMBER 2020 • ANGLIA FARMER 35

Livestock

Order early to secure preferred maize seed • Demand for maize seed on the increase • Market uncertainty could affect supplies • Preferred varieties are popular as ever

F

armers planning to grow maize next year are being advised to place seed orders well in advance to secure their preferred variety.

Demand for maize is on the up – but this season there is the added complication of uncertainty about how Brexit will affect trade with Europe, says Peter Brundle, southern seeds manager for Hutchinsons.

This means many seed suppliers are planning to bring stocks of key varieties into the UK earlier than normal to avoid disruption to supplies in the event of a “no-deal” outcome to Brexit negotiations.

Maize growers have faced a number of challenging seasons

Freeephone - 0800 328 5492 Em maill: sales@allertonuk.com Websitee: www.allertonuk.com SEWAGE & EFFLUENT TREATMENT SYSTEMS

The Depenndable Choiice in Draiinagge In rural areas without a mains drainaage sysstem, and where seeptic tanks willl no longger reacch ennviromental standardds, Allerton can provide the ideal sollution.

Tradingg since 1974, Alleertoon are leadiing speciaalistts in efficientt treatment systems. Thhey pride themselvves on their individual, problem m sollving approachh to dealing with alternattive means of treating and dispoosiing of raw sew wage.

The Allerrton ConnSept conveerts your exxisting Septtic Tankk or Cesspit into a fully functiooning Sewage Trreatmentt Plant

The Diamondd Sewage Treeatmentt Range is suitabble forr either Individual Homes or smalll population applicationns

When Gravity Drainage is not possible choosee Alleerton Pumping Statioons for Sewaage or Dirtty Water

Serviccing & Mainntenancee on a wide rangge of Sewage Treeatment Plant and Pump Stationss byy BRITISH WA ATER ACCREDIITED ENGIN NEERS

Hydraulics, pneumatics, bearings & belts, supply & repair A ONE STOP SOLUTION PROVIDER FOR ALL OF YOUR HYDRAULIC CYLINDER NEEDS

Hydraulic Pumps & Motors Keeping operations up and running

Valves & Components Source the right parts in a short time

Technical Support Advice and support at every stage

01933 676 008 sales@bbhhydraulics.co.uk www.bbhhydraulics.co.uk 36 ANGLIA FARMER • DECEMBER 2020

Growers generally start to order seed just before Christmas.

The ordering window continues right through to the spring, with some farmers waiting until March or April before making a final decision.

Careful selection But Mr Brundle said: “Given the uncertainty around Brexit and the growing popularity of maize, growers really should consider order- Sought after varieties include ing earlier this year to secure pre- consistent performers, says Peter Brundle. ferred varieties.”

Defra statistics show that the UK maize area has increased over (FAO 160) that manage to achieve the past five years from less than high yields and good quality – suit190,000ha to around 226,000ha ing growers wanting an early harin 2020. Demand for maize seed vest, says Mr Brundle. has risen for both livestock and for biogas.

Maritime climate Whatever the end market, the Of the early maturing varielist of maize varieties is extensive, ties (FAO 170-190), P7326 was making selection challenging. And a best-seller for Hutchinsons in with increasingly variable weath- 2020. It suits the UK’s maritime er too, Mr Brundle suggests a few climate and can be grown on less key choices that have performed favourable sites where heat is limconsistently over recent years. iting, as well as on sites when earPerez and Duxxbury are both ly harvest is required. very early maturing varieties Prospect is one of the top early

www.rnttanks.com RNT Tanks & Silos

RNT Tanks & Silos Ltd. Design, manufacture and supply a leading range of galvanised steel water tanks, fish breeding tanks and silo storage systems offering all-round solutions for a multitude of agricultural, horticultural, water management and storage needs.

Merry Christmas

RNT Tanks and Silos Ltd, design, manufacture and supply a multitude of solutions for water collection, storage and management. Corrugated steel water tanks are perfect for rainwater harvesting and incorporates easily into existing gutter systems.

Call us to discuss your specific needs.

01767 654916 info@rnttanks.com Unit 8, Drove Road Industrial Estate, Gamlingay, Sandy, Bedfordshire SG19 2HX

varieties on the BSPB/NIAB List for dry matter yield at 103%. The combination of high starch and the highest cell wall digestibility of any early variety, helps Prospect be one of the highest ME yielding varieties on the list.

Autens delivers consistent bulk dry matter and higher grain content for added starch percentage, suiting grain, silage and biogas production. P7034 also suits all three end uses and continues to grow in popularity. Ambition, Glory and Agiraxx remain popular.

Among the intermediate maturing varieties (FAO 200-220), Mr Brundle picks P7524 for its early vigour and high yield, Movanna for its agronomics and standing power, and Keops for its wide drilling window and flexibility. P7948 was introduced in 2020 and looks an exciting prospect for the biogas sector, he adds.

Other considerations Of the late maturing varieties (FAO 230-250), Indexx continues to be Hutchinsons’ best-selling late biogas variety, particular-

“

Growers really should consider ordering earlier this year

ly suited to the east, while P8200 is a large stature hybrid that performs well on favourable sites in the open, or a wide range of sites under film. Amaroc has proven popular and consistent.

Growers should also take into consideration seed treatment changes. Following the revocation of Mesurol (methiocarb) in 2020, Korit was used extensively last season as an effective bird repellent.

In 2021 Korit (Ziram 420 g/l) will be used in conjunction with the fungicide Redigo M (prothioconazole + metalaxyl), by many suppliers. Trace elements and growth promotion products are also being offered by some suppliers to improve establishment.

Sonido (thiacloprid) can no longer be used for wireworm control and will be replaced with Force (tefluthrin).

CHEALE

MEATS

PREMIUM TRANSPARENT FINISHED PIG CONTRACTS AVAILABLE NOW DIRECT

FOR CULL SOWS AND BOARS FREEPHONE

08085 300 303 01277 811631 07711 719001 DECEMBER 2020 • ANGLIA FARMER 37

www.sas-agri.uk

email info@sas-agri.uk Richard: 07880 552295 Office: 01493 733211

Main dealers for Hi Spec and Philip Watkins. We are Bunning and ECE specialists

HiSpec now offers an in-house trailing shoe solution to complement their tanker range The HiSpec trailing shoe is available in 7.5 & 9 metre working widths. It features a robust chassis mounted mast. This chassis mounted mast ensures that the tanker and shoe are perfectly balanced and that the shoe is properly supported to the tanker. The 7.5m & 9m trailing shoes feature double folding to reduce the overall height for transportation. This double folding ensures that the trailing shoe transport height is minimised. There is also the ability to use both fill points and splash plate at the rear without any modifications.

The 9m trailing shoe will also feature a unique hydraulic self-levelling, whereby each arm of the trailing shoe will lift as it passes over a side incline. This ensures that the shoe is working perfectly over the incline and that the pressure on the outer boots is reduced.

The HiSpec trailing shoe features hardened trailing shoes that gently part the grass sideways and allows the slurry to be placed onto the ground via a specialised rubber boot. The grass covering will then prevent valuable nutrients from escaping and the placement of the slurry to the roots ensures a reduced grazing turn-around. HiSpec are using the Vogelsang Exacut as a distributor to distribute the slurry evenly to the hoses. The HiSpec trailing shoe is galvanised as standard and features an independent LED lighting bar.

3m Philip Watkins Incorporator in stock

Bunning Lowlander 120 MK4 2016. Vertical auger

Philip Watkins Front weight.

Made to order. Stock available

Bunning 120 HBD 2016 x 2

We have parts available.

WANTED

Hi Spec main dealer South East, tankers always in stock

Pair Broughan heavy duty bale trailers. 33ft air/hyd load sensing. 560/45 R22.5

2020 Stewart pro series Hardox PS16-HL 16 tonne root crop trailer, Abs, 560/60 R22.5 BKT ridemax tyres

Bunning Spreaders – all models

Muck & Slurry Robust response pledged to fertiliser ban plan

G

overnment plans to ban solid urea fertiliser would push up farm input costs, say industry leaders who have pledged to fight the proposal.

A Defra consultation launched last month is seeking views on reducing ammonia emissions from solid urea fertilisers for growing plants and crops.

The government says emissions are bad for human health and must be reduced.

Some 87% of UK ammonia emissions come from farming. The government says taking action solid urea fertilisers will reduce pollution. It has committed to reducing emissions by 8% of 2005 levels by 2020 – with a 16% reduction by 2030.

The consultation presents three options: a total ban on solid urea fertilisers; stabilising urea fertiliser with the addition of a urease inhibitor; and restrictions so solid urea fertiliser can only be spread from 15 January to 31 March.

Preferred option While each of these options will support the commitment to reducing ammonia emissions, the government says a ban on solid urea fertilisers would achieve around 31% of the ammonia reduction target by 2030.

Reducing ammonia emissions will significantly reduce nitrogen deposition to land and in turn help reduce damage to peat bogs, which are an important

The government wants farmers to use ammonia nitrate rather than urea

carbon sink, thereby helping to tackle climate change.

Environment Secretary George Eustice said: “Ammonia emissions from agriculture are causing harm to sensitive and important habitats by making soils more acidic which damages the growth of some plant species, impacting on biodiversity.

“They are also harmful to human health, and we welcome views on how we can address their use in agriculture so that we can all breathe cleaner air.

Ambitious targets “Any changes will need to be made in a way that is realistic and achievable for farmers, but which help us to achieve our ambitious targets for better air

“

We welcome views on how we can all breathe cleaner air

quality. We are committed to working with farmers to help them do this.”

NFU combinable crops board chair Matt Culley said: “Farmers have made great strides in reducing key agricultural emissions over recent decades through more efficient targeting of fertiliser applied to farmland and held in the soil.

“Urea is the most commonly used form of nitrogen fertiliser in the world and an important tool for our farmers in helping produce the nation’s food. It offers several advantages when used alongside ammonium nitrate and is safer to handle.”

The consultation closes on 26 January 2021. For details, visit www.bit. ly/UreaBan.

How insect manure could help grow crops Insect waste could be used as a crop fertiliser, say researchers working on a major government-funded project.

Scientists at Warwick and Durham universities are examining the viability of rearing insects for animal feed.

They believe waste material – or frass – from the Black Soldier Fly larvae could be used as a plant fertiliser and growth stimulant.

Project lead Rob Lillywhite said: “Frass is a by-product of producing insects and is likely to contain many

of the essential elements required for plant growth. We are excited by the opportunity to examine its use in plant production.”

Finding a value-adding use for the frass would add to the sustainability of using insect protein for livestock as an alternative to products like soyabased animal feed, added Mr Lillywhite.

“It’s early days in the project with very little science of this sort havcontinued on p40

Waste from fly larvae could be used as manure [Photo Credit: Entocycle]

DECEMBER 2020 • ANGLIA FARMER 39

DIGESTATE AND SLURRY MANAGEMENT

A fast, efficient professional service

by Tramspread Contracting Ltd

• • • • • • •

Mixing stores Full nutrient testing Autoguide tractors c/w flowmeters Full application information Pumping distance over 6000m Spring top dressing applications in tramlines Specialists in umbilical slurry & digestate spreading

Contact Larry Baker

Tel: 01449 766133 www.tramspread.co.uk AF0613A RN Euston_Layout 1 23/01/2014 09:20 Page 1

R.N. Euston Ltd A family-run business established in East Anglia for over 40 years Steel framed buildings Complete Building Construction including: Complete groundwork Mechanical handling equipment Drive on timber floors • Steel framed buildings • Complete groundwork Building refurbishment

• Mechanical handling equipment Drive on timber floors A family run business established • Building in East Anglia for over 40 years refurbishment AGENTS FOR SCORPION BUILDINGS For all enquiries COVERING EAST ANGLIA

T/F 01449 720256 M 07774 633608 E m.euston@sky.com Wilwyn, Flordon Road, St Mary, Ipswich, Suffolk Tel/Fax 01449 720256 Mobile 07774 Creeting 633608 For all enquiries

Wilwyn, Flordon Road, Creeting St Mary, Ipswich, Suffolk 40 ANGLIA FARMER • DECEMBER 2020

Muck & Slurry continued from p39 ing gone before. We are looking forward to be working on a project looking at new potential food systems, with sustainability and closed loop ideals at their core.”

Durham University researcher Elaine Fitches described the project as a fantastic opportunity to join forces with experts in crop nutrition at Warwick University to understand the value of insect frass for crop and soil health in the UK. She said: “At Durham, we will conduct complementary fundamental research to explore how frass can be used to boost plant immunity and will seek to explain the molecular mechanisms underpinning enhanced plant responses to pathogen attack.”

The project is part of a £10m funding package from the UK Government’s Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund to construct the UK’s first large-scale industrial insect farm and accelerate the development of sustainable food production systems.

Hose pincher helps prevent slurry spills

T

ramspread has released two new slurry hose pinchers to help reduce the risk of slurry spillages when breaking couplings or repairing hoses on the job.

The lightweight ‘Handy’ is designed to be carried easily and is suitable for clamping hoses up to 6 inches in diameter. The larger ‘Heavy’ is for use with pressurised hoses up to 8 inches in diameter to stem the flow.

When pumping slurry, leaks or blow outs can occur. Spillages which cause pollution can be damaging to the environment and could lead to legal action against those responsible, says Tramspread director Edwin Baker.

“These pinchers are inexpensive and will prevent slurry being lost if a quick repair is needed when pumping or spreading. Now, more than ever, farmers need to demonstrate the measures being taken to reduce slurry pollution and safeguard the environment.”

The hose pincher clamps pipes when changing couplings or making repairs.

The pinchers are both priced at £250. “This is a small price to pay for a device that can prevent unnecessary pollution. It is also useful to have a pincher when breaking couplings because there is no need to drain the pipe first,” says Mr Baker.

Although designed for umbilical slurry hose, the pinchers can be used in other farm work – including irrigation pipework or other water pipes on farms. But the main benefit is preventing potential damage that slurry spillages can cause.

PLUG&PLAY SEPARATOR SYSTEM

THE BAUER SEPARATOR CONVERTS SLURRY INTO A VALUABLE FERTILIZER. SUITABLE FOR THE FOLLOWING APPLICATIONS: • Agricultural applications: Separation of cow, pig and chicken manure • Food industry: Separation of vegetable waste • Slaughter houses: Separation of paunch content

Adrian Tindall 07708 919597 a.tindall@bauer-at.com

• Pharmaceutical industry: Separation of poppy seed mush • Biogas plants: Before and after fermentation • Distilleries

Rob Jackson 07939 410417 r.jackson@bauer-at.com

www.bauer-at.com

DECEMBER 2020 • ANGLIA FARMER 41

Concrete Flooring Specialist

SJ STANBERRY & SONS LTD See us at Agri Expo - March 7th • INDUSTRIAL, AGRICULTURA RAL A OR COMMERCIAL • INT TERNAL OR EXTERNAL • STEEL FIXING • BRU USH, TAMP OR POWER FLOAT FINISHES • FOUNDATIONS • POULTRY UNITS AND STABLE YARDS • MATERIAL ADVICE AND COSTING • SILO BASES RONS & SHED FLOORS • APR • AN NAEROBIC DIGESTION TANK BASES • GRAIN, POTATO & MACHINERY STORES • PATHS, PATIOS AND DRIVEWAYS • GROUNDWORKS & PREPARATION

01945 870076

• nationwide coverage • sales@sjstanberry.com • www.sjstanberry.com

tel: 01366 727016 info@benningtonplanthire.co.uk Earthworks / Demolition / Plant Hire – East Anglia

Bennington Plant Ltd is a professional earth moving contractor specialising in: • Reservoirs • Site survey GPS • Design modelling • Slurry lagoons • Lakes and all aspects of general earth moving including access roads

www.benningtonplanthire.co.uk Oaklands, Severalls Rd Methwold Hythe, Thetford, Norfolk IP26 4QU 42 ANGLIA FARMER • DECEMBER 2020

Muck & Slurry

Scientists finally unearth why soil carbon is so valuable

A

radical new way of thinking has solved the mystery of why adding manure to soil improves crop yields – and offers other benefits too.

Scientists at Rothamsted Research found that relatively low nitrogen levels in healthy soils limit the ability of microbes to utilise carbon compounds, excrete them as glue-like polymers to create a porous, interconnected structure which allows water, air, and nutrients to circulate.

Writing in the journal Scientific Reports, the researchers reveal that the Victorian-era switch from manure to ammonia and phosphorous based fertiliser caused microbes to metabolise more carbon, excrete less polymers and fundamentally alter the properties of farmland soils.

Lost carbon As carbon is lost from soil, the scientists found that the pores within it become smaller and less connected. They found that low carbon, poorly connected soils, are much less efficient at supporting growth and recycling nutrients – limiting yields.

Lead researcher Professor Andrew Neal said: “This results in fundamental changes in the flow of water, nutrients and oxygen through soil and forces several significant changes to microbial behaviour and metabolism.”

A lack of oxygen in soil results in microbes having to turn to nitrogen and sulphur compounds for their energy – inefficient processes, says Professor Neal. Among other issues, this results in increased emissions of the greenhouse gas nitrous oxide The closed soil structure also means microbes need to expend more energy on degrading less easily accessible organic matter for nutrients. Conversely, in carbon-rich soil there is an extensive network of pores which allow for greater circulation of air, nutrients and retention of water.

Nutritious manure “Manure is high in carbon and nitrogen, whereas ammonia-based

Manure delivers more benefits than ammonia-based fertilisers, say researchers

• Carbon encourages healthy soil structure • Artificial fertilisers deplete carbon stocks • Adding manure boosts beneficial microbes

“

Carbon dynamics and soil water were poorly understood

fertilisers are devoid of carbon.

Decades of such inputs – and soil processes typically act over decades – have changed the way soil microbes get their energy and nutrients, and how they respire.”

While soil carbon was already known to drive climate and water cycles the world over, Prof Neal said it took a chance discussion

between experts working at very different scales to discover the reason why.

The idea to look at this link between the living and non-living components of soil came about through a discussion between Prof Andrew Neal and Prof John Crawford – now at Glasgow University – who studies the way complex systems behave.

Prof Neal says: “Carbon dynamics and the link to soil water were poorly understood. Society struggles with the concept of what soil is and how it can be

Researchers develop ‘Theory of Soil’ These latest findings complement previous work showing how microbial action influences soil structure – helping Rothamsted scientists develop an overarching Theory of Soil.

In healthy soils, relatively low nitrogen levels limit the ability of microbes to metabolise carbon compounds. These are instead excreted by the organism in polymers (called ex-

tracellular polymeric substances, or EPS) that can act as a kind of glue.

EPS stabilises the aggregation of soil particles in the environment adjacent to the microbe. This makes the physical structure of the environment around these microbes more stable to disruption, such as occurs when the soil wets up and dries, or when plant roots pass nearby.

managed effectively because it is such a complex combination of biological, chemical and physical processes.”

Dynamic interaction The two scientists took inspiration from a theory proposed by Richard Dawkins in the 1980s that many structures we encounter are in fact products of organisms’ genes. This helped them understand soil as a product of microbial genes, incorporating organic materials.

“We have shown for the first time a dynamic interaction between soil structure and microbial activity – fuelled by carbon – which regulates water storage and gaseous flow rates in soil with real consequences for how microbes respire.”

The group, which also involved scientists from Nottingham University, is the first to seriously study the details of this intimate two-way relationship between the microscopic life in soil and its structure at scales relevant to microbial processes.

The results also have implications for farmers, where the addition of nitrogen and phosphorous fertilisers – and not carbon – may be leading to a degradation of natural soil fertility that could be detrimental to long term productivity.

DECEMBER 2020 • ANGLIA FARMER 43

Muck & Slurry

Fliegl launches chain manure spreader to market

G

erman machinery manufacterer Fliegl has launched a new chain manure spreader aimed at larger farmers and contractors.

The company has introduced the KDS 270 Muck Control spreader to meet increased demand for machines to spread solid manure as opposed to liquid slurry. It follows a prototype model exhibited at last year’s Agritechnica event.

Since then, Fliegl says there has been a lot of tinkering, development and testing to get the KDS spreader ready for market. It is a universal spreader with a scraper floor and a horizontal two-disc spreader.

The loading space of the KDS 270 is 1.4m high, 2.15m wide

and 7m long, giving it a capacity of around 21m³. The load compartment with side walls and floor made of fine-grain steel sits on a tandem chassis consisting of a hollow beam frame.

Both materials are extremely stable and yet light. The mechanical suspension of the axles and hydraulically sprung drawbar with pivotable drawbar ensure a high level of driving comfort and practicality.

The scraper floor consists of two chains with 140 chain links each. Each individual chain link has a breaking load of 50tonnes.

The scraper floor is driven hydraulically via a side gear and the speed can be continuously adjusted.

A hydraulic feed control valve separates the loading area from

The new chain manure spreader has a 21m³ load capacity

the spreading unit. To guarantee an optimal sealing, it has an internal frame guide. The opening position can be adjusted continuously on the control terminal.

The driver receives information about the opening width of the gate valve via a fill level indicator on the front wall of the spread-

er. A mechanical or optionally hydraulic chain tensioner ensures easy maintenance.

Two horizontal spreader rollers each with a diameter of 770mm are positioned after the feed control gate. These ensure optimal mixing, loosening and dosing of the spreading material.

SUGGITT SUGGITT Attleborough Norfolk

POULTRY MUCK WANTED

FARM SERVICES FARM SERVICES jecting ading and in ling im nde a h , ly spre p p X u e s y rr /L Sluuck and Lim • Up to 7m disc injector

M

MAIZE & SUGAR BEET LAND WANTED

and supplyjecting

ndling and in

a Slurry supply, h

Attleborough Norfolk

available

56125

• Dribble bar application contract spreading services • Supplied & spread •and Up toltry 7m disc • 18,000-litre capacity Joskin tanker and compost ureinjector man s including pou • Wide low ground pressure flotation • Muck sale • Dribble bar application red offe also tyres and steering axles • Muck for straw dea•ls18,000-litre capacity Joskin tanker • Tank agitator and high volume turbo th with shredding augers and to 24m spread •wid Up • Wide low ground pressure flotation filler spreading discs tyres and steering axles rised • Satellite navigation and field field mapping and compute mapping • Satellite navigation, • Tank agitator and high volume turbo • Low odour operation, a clean and weighing equipmentfiller efficient service for low ground pressure • Wide flotation-tyres • Satellite navigation and field • We can supply and deliver slurry, capacity loading shovels high with mapping • Fast loading or inject your own

Lowred odour operation, a clean and • Spreader hire also• offe

Muck and Lime

jecting

ng and in li d n a h , ly p p u s Slurry

• Supplied & spread and contract spreading services available • Muck sales including poultry manure and compost • Muck for straw deals also offered • Fleet of modern high-capacity spreaders • Up to 36m spread width with shredding augers and spreading discs • Slurry doors and sludge equipment • Satellite navigation, field mapping and computerised weighing equipment • Wide flotation-tyres for low ground pressure • Fast loading with high capacity loading shovels (7 cubic metre buckets) • Reliable efficient service • Spreader hire also offered

efficient service • We can supply and deliver slurry, or inject your own

56125

g and supply /LimeX spreadin

d supply

preading an s X e im /L e im L and

ble bar application • Up to 7m disc injector • Drib tanker kin Jos y • 28,000-litre capacit s tion tyres and steering axle flota re ssu pre • Wide low ground r me turbo fille • Tank agitator and high volu • Supplied & spread and contract mapping field and ion spreading services available • Satellite navigat and efficient service n clea a n, ratio • Muck sales including poultry manure • Low odour ope and compost slurry, or inject your own • We can supply and deliver

Muck

• Muck for straw deals also offered • Fleet of modern high-capacity spreaders • Up to 36m spread width with shredding augers and spreading discs • Slurry doors and sludge equipment 44 ANGLIA FARMER • DECEMBER 2020 • Satellite navigation, mapping Contact field Steve on and computerised weighing equipment 07789 870979 | email ssuggitt76@gmail.com

870979 Contact Steve on 07789

l.com

| email ssuggitt76@gmai

POTATO CHITTING LIGHTS All of our LED units come with a one metre lead and a 13 amp plug

UK Soya Beans

WHY GROW UK SOYA?

 Nitrogen-fixing break crop  Greatly reduced Blackgrass burden  Improved soil structure  Reduced slug populations  No significant disease  No significant pests  Rotationally compatible with peas/beans  Easy harvesting in September  Huge, high-value market for UK crop  New UK adapted varieties  No lodging  Attractive gross margin

Lights can be leap frogged Each light is individually PAT tested Available in sizes 5ft to 12ft

Options: Free standing or hanging Extra length lead

01621 828689 • www.kjengineering.com

Soya UK Ltd, Longways House, Burnetts Lane, West End, Southampton, SO30 2HH. T: 02380 696922 email: enquiries@soya-uk.com SoyaUK

Soya UK Ltd

www.soya-uk.com

@SoyaUKLtd

STRAW WANTED All grades and types of cereal straw required (including top/high moisture/waste bales) in 6 string 120x70, 120x90 and 120x130 sizes, anywhere within East Anglia in large quantities!

• Top prices paid including upfront deposit and immediate payment • Rapid clearance of stacks using our own transport • Shed stored, outside stacks, top bales and wet bales wanted • OSR, Wheat, Barley, Oats, Rye etc.

Please call or email Will Murphy

07704 246108 – will@wrmagri.co.uk December 2020 • ANGLIA FARMER 45

Muck & Slurry

On-farm emissions reduced by proactive slurry management

B

etter slurry management is vital for UK agriculture to achieve its goal of reaching Net Zero carbon emissions by 2040, say experts.

Livestock farmers need a comprehensive understanding of the environmental impact of slurry for the sector to reach the ambitious target a full 10 years ahead of the government’s 2050 goal for the UK as a whole.

Adopt change A proactive approach to slurry management, coupled with the willingness to adopt change, is going to be key in achieving the sector’s aspirations, explains Andrew Sincock, commercial director at Agriton UK. “Many dairy farmers will use lime as a bedding powder to help prevent mastitis and other pathogenic diseases. But what many

don’t currently know is that the reaction between the ammonium in slurry and the lime can lead to the release of large volumes of carbon dioxide and nitrogen.”

There is evidence to suggest

www.greencrop.co.uk

SEPCOM SLURRY & AD DIGESTANT SEPARATORS

DRIBBLE BARS TRACTOR OR TANKER MOUNTED

STINGRAY TRAILING SHOE TANKER OR TRACTOR MOUNTED

GREENCROP SLURRY PUMPS & UMBILICAL SYSTEMS

VENERONI MIXERS & PUMPS

MULTICAM DIRTY WATER IRRIGATOR & PUMPING SYSTEMS

Dereham Road . Beeston . Kings Lynn . Norfolk . PE32 2LE 01328 701992 | enquiries@greencrop.co.uk 46 ANGLIA FARMER • DECEMBER 2020

that 1000kg of lime can react with ammonium in the slurry to release up to 440kg of carbon dioxide, and 280kg of nitrogen in the form of ammonia, says Mr Sincock.

These emission rates are sig-

nificant. But they can be reduced by using an alternative bedding powder, which doesn’t react with slurry and acts quickly to raise the pH of the environment – killing harmful pathogens and bacteria.

Microorganisms Mr Sincock explains that slurry inoculants that contain effective microorganisms are another example of how farmers can reduce on-farm emissions when added to cubicles, slurry, or farmyard manure.

“When you add effective micro-organisms (EM), which contain a mixture of bacteria, yeast, fungi, actinomycetes and phototrophic bacteria to slurry, they work synergistically to break down and ferment organic matter.”

Fermentation helps retain key nutrients within the slurry and decreases the release of harmful emissions such as ammonia, carbon dioxide and methane. The nutrient rich and non-toxic slurry can then be spread as an alternative to artificial fertilisers.

DESIGN ROBUSTNESS VERSATILITY

Cropping, livestock, construction, groundworks and environmental expertise. Since 1946, ROLLAND manufactures and develops machines to meet your needs.

Contact Alex Clothier 0788 150 3731 www.rollandtrailer.com

Professional Services Spring into action ahead of 2021 farmland sales season • Take action to ensure good position • Make sure documentation is to hand • Prepare information ahead of time

F

armers looking to sell agricultural land in 2021 are advised to act now to capitalise on the spring sales market.

Now is the ideal time to begin preparations and iron out any potential probelsm to ensure an effective launch followed by a smooth sale, says Andrew Fallows, head of rural agency at land agents Carter Jonas.

“That will put you in a strong position to move quickly when buyers become more active and other land becomes available. If you don’t plan, you may miss opportunities and the process can be drawn out over many months.

“We are already seeing prospective clients who are planning to sell in the spring rather than this winter, so the market could become busy and those who have prepared well will be in the box seat.”

Prepare early A big merit of early preparation is the ability to showcase farms at their best. Photographs can be taken while the landscape still looks green and leafy which will help design an attractive set of particulars to showcase the property.

Mr Fallows says time should be allowed to appoint a strong sales and legal team – and to begin gathering information about the property in advance of marketing. Early discussions with your accountant are also vital to fully understand your tax liability.

“Having the right people advising and ironing out any issues will put you in the strongest position to proceed,” he says. “This includes preparing information ahead of time, such as creating a legal pack.”

Farmland should be photographed when it is at its best

Starting early also gives sellers the opportunity to work with agents to add value. “Thinking ahead and actually securing planning permission on redundant buildings, for example, can unlock significant and immediate value.”

As well as buildings, investigating the potential for mineral reserves and renewable energy diversifications present opportunities to increase market value. “These things take time but are well worth it,” says Mr Fallows.

Common pitfalls Four common barriers must be avoided or overcome to ensure a hassle-free sale. They are overage negotiations, borrowing applications, background information and the title position of a farm.

Andrew Fallows expects the farmland market to become busier.

Providing buyers with Rural Payments Agency plans, entitlement statements and environmental stewardship agreements in a data room saves time in the due diligence process too, says Mr Fallows.

Farms not registered with the Land Registry can also put the brakes on the process and a tightening of borrowing rules is also contributing to slower transactions where mortgages are involved.

Lengthy searches Solicitors carrying out necessary searches can also delay a sale, with some taking up to 12 weeks to be returned. That said, while Covid and Brexit have created market uncertainty, next year is likely to present some opportunities for sellers.

“With a delayed budget from the Chancellor, we are in a period where the tax environment at present is settled so buyers and sellers know where continued on p48 DECEMBER 2020 • ANGLIA FARMER 47

Professional Services continued from p47 they are. This, in itself, is a compelling reason to progress a sale or purchase,” says Mr Fallows.

At the same time, the government’s clear intention to use support environmental measures on farms means diversified businesses and those with varied landscapes or features will be well-placed to generate additional income.

“The Covid world has also crystallised the desire for many to have more space and when lock-

down started to ease a lot of areas had more spring in their step than before,” explains Mr Fallows.

“Leisure and lifestyle are proving to be big selling points. Rural land in close proximity to good travel networks is high in demand from lifestyle purchasers. So 2021 could present a sterling opportunity for sellers.”

“

Preparation takes time but is well worth it

Questions sellers should ask themselves • Are the title deeds to the property correctly registered with the Land Registry?

• Are there any restrictive covenants, clawbacks or rights of way which may affect the land?

• Do you have all relevant paperwork?

• Do you have energy performance certificates?

• What are the boundary maintenance responsibilities?

• Are farm records easily available?

• Have you any planning permission certificates?

• Can you provide details of easements?

• Remember, information on services for electricity, water and sewerage are all required.

ProCam appoints eastern region technical manager

A

gronomy firm ProCam has appointed Matthew Cobbald as regional technical manager for the eastern counties.

Mr Cobbald has worked as an agronomist and farm consultant for more than 20 years – including his most recent role as technical director with farm management and advisory company Velcourt.

Support In his new role, he will provide support to the company’s team of agronomists across East Anglia and into neighbouring counties, in addition to looking after his own farming clients. He will also involved ProCam’s multi-site trials programmes.

“This is a critical time for farmers and the wider agricultural industry and an exciting time to be joining ProCam,” says Mr Cobbald. “There are challenges ahead,

for sure, but there are also great opportunities.”

Tackling challenges ProCam’s ‘boots on the ground’ approach is ideal for helping farmers adapt their businesses required to tackling those challenges – which Mr Cobbald says include regulations on pesticide use, climate change and farm policy.

“Crop protection remains fundamental to ProCam’s offer, but we also provide expertise in seeds and traits, crop nutrition, biological products, conservation agriculture and precision farming.

I believe this more integrated approach will be essential.”

Mr Cobbald is from a family farm in Essex. During his career, he has worked across all broadacre crops as well as potatoes, roots and vegetables. He lives in Suffolk with his wife and young family.

Agricultural Water Management

Looking for rural finance? a Chartered Surveyors, Land, Want Property loan no annual reviews? andwith Planning Consultants

Sustainable water resource management Abstraction licence renewals Borehole, reservoirs, surface abstraction, infrastructure, IT control Grant aid applications Reservoir planning, construction and management Water efficiency Water quality issues

Brooks Leney are agents for the AMC – call us for a confidential discussion on how AMC could help your business.

Tel: 01473 831531 brooksleney.co.uk AMC loans available for business purposes only, provided on a secured loan basis. Minimum AMC Standard loan £25,001. To meet customer requirements, lending criteria will vary.

brooksleney.co.uk 48 ANGLIA FARMER • DECEMBER 2020

Contact: 01263 733395 07785 935498 andrew.alston@farmline.com www.awmcl.co.uk

Agricultural specialist is appointed legal director Ipswich-based law firm Birketts has appointed Gerry Field as a legal director in its agriculture and estates team.

Mr Field is a specialist in land estate law and property law. He is also a long-time supporter of the Suffolk Show where he has hosted lunches in the sponsors’ tent for more than 20 years.

As a part of the agriculture and estates team, Mr Field will provide support to new clients – as well as those farming, landowning and business patrons who have followed him with loyalty throughout his 40 year career.

Commenting on his appointment, he said: “I am delighted to join a leading local firm like Birketts which has such deep roots in the local farming community. It is an honour to work alongside a team offering such a broad range of expertise.”

December 2020 • ANGLIA FARMER 49

Great relationships, great conversations and great futures

At MHA Larking Gowen, we have one of the largest teams of agriculture accounting specialists in the UK. As your farm accountant, we’ll provide a friendly, confidential, one-to-one service, backed up by a deep knowledge of agricultural business. Many of our clients have been with us for generations and rely on us as trusted advisors.

T: 0330 024 0888 larking-gowen.co.uk

Now, for tomorrow

Professional Services

Farmland market remains resilient due to low supply • Robust values in face of uncertainty • Good money paid for ‘ best in class’ • Longer term outlook remains strong

E

astern region farmland values remain strong – despite an uncertain economic and political backdrop, says land agents Savills.

The market remained robust during the third quarter of this year, with minimal changes to the end of September, according to the Savills Farmland Values Survey. But prices are highly localised and primarily driven by parish, asset quality and soil type.

Gi d’Angibau, who leads the rural team at Savills Chelmsford, said strong farmland values highlighted underlying confidence in rural investments and the ongoing resilience of the agricultural sector.

“There is no doubt that a combination of Brexit, agricultural policy reform and the Covid-19 pandemic has had an impact. However prices have remained resilient and there is genuine confidence among buyers and real strength in the market.”

Limited stock and high demand have created the perfect environment for those hoping to sell, said Ms d’Angibau.

price of £6.5m, and the Whitleather Estate in Cambridgeshire attracted significant enquiries.

Remarkable uptick “There continues to be a remarkable uptick in interest for houses in the country and amenity farmland as many urban-based buyers seek more green space. Rural estates with notable residential components are also attracting interest.”

The Savills database – tracks sales over 50 acres – suggests 95,160 acres of farmland were brought to the public market nationally as at 30 September. Over half this area was between July and the start of October.

Great Britain’s average ‘All types’ farmland indicator remains unchanged at £6,690 per acre, with prime arable down 0.1% to £8,690 per acre.

Grade 3 arable was up 0.2% to £7,323 per acre while grade 3 pasture land was unchanged at £5,384 per acre.

Outlook Oliver Carr, from the rural team at Savills Cambridge, said: “Looking ahead, the sector is set for radical change, with trade and policy reform expected to develop in detail before the year end.”

Clear evidence “Private and off-market sales have been a popular avenue for many vendors, but of those we know about on the open market there is clear evidence that buyers are willing to pay for property deemed ‘best in class’, with several significant deals crossing the line.”

A few good sized units have been launched and traded since lockdown restrictions were relaxed in March. They include a 600 acre unit near Colchester, a pretty residential farm near Halstead and another smaller farm in south Essex.

Similarly around the region, a 498 acre property near Norwich sold subject to contract with a guide

Several significant deals crossed the line this year, says Gi d’Angibau.

Partnership helps farms measure natural capital Land and property specialist Strutt & Parker and the Economics for the Environment Consultancy (Eftec) have teamed up to help rural landowners enhance and unlock the potential of their natural capital assets.

Collaboration Natural capital accounting is a way of measuring, monitoring and valuing a farm or estate’s natural capital assets – such as soil, water and wildlife habitat – presenting the information in a similar way to a set of financial accounts.

The collaboration will enable the production of natural capital accounts for farm businesses. This ties in with the forthcoming Environmental Land Management Scheme (ELMS) which will require farmers to understand the public goods they provide.

Huge interest Strutt & Parker head of rural James Farrell said: “There is a huge amount of interest in natural capital at present, linked to concerns about climate change and declines in biodiversity.

“The more that landowners understand about the quantity and quality of their natural capital assets, the better placed they will be to make decisions about how best to manage them.

“It will also help to identify where there might be potential to open up new income streams, through the provision of ecosystem services such as the generation of carbon credits.”

£1m investment allowance limit extended The government has extended its temporary higher Annual Investment Allowance (AIA) limit of £1m for a further year.

The AIA was due to revert to its original £200,000 on 1 January 2021. But it has been extended by 12 months to stimulate business investment as the economy continues to grapple with the

coronavirus pandemic.

The extension means businesses – including farms – can continue to claim up to £1m in same-year tax relief through the AIA for capital investments in plant and machinery assets until 1 January 2022.

Martyn Dobinson, partner at accountancy firm Saffery Champness, said: “This is good news for

an under pressure rural and agri sector. This will accelerate tax relief and reduce tax cash outflow for those taking advantage of the extension.”

Tax avoidance Treasury secretary Jesse Norman said the government would also deliver on its commitment to help

protect UK taxpayers by clamping down on promoters of tax avoidance schemes.

In a further move the government has announced it will launch a consultation on a proposal to require advisers to hold professional indemnity insurance, giving taxpayers greater recourse against bad tax advice.

DECEMBER 2020 • ANGLIA FARMER 51

Professional Services

Operation Galileo sees police combat hare coursing gangs • Police work together against gangs • Hi-tech approach is getting results • Public have important role to play

P

olice have joined forces to combat the problem of hare-coursing by sharing information about offenders.

Some 21 constabularies are working together to combat the crime, which sees big money change hands as dogs chase hares across fields. Called Operation Galileo, police will share intelligence about coursers during the 2020/21 season.

Prevention continues to be a key focus, supported by more sophisticated prosecution and intelligence gathering capabilities. In many cases, officers use drones to monitor offenders

Hare coursing remains a problem during the autumn and winter months,

without them knowing.

Operation Galileo is led by Lincolnshire Police. Chief inspector Phil Vickers, the force’s lead for rural crime, said farmers and other rural residents had a key role in helping the police gather intelligence.

“We are in good shape for this season. Last season was very positive and we are looking at building on that, while also improving our efforts to fight other rural crimes such as theft of machinery and dangerous driving.”

Bringing 21 police forces together meant officers were able to target offenders who caused the greatest

“

We are ready to use legislation in new ways against hare coursers

harm to rural communities by sharing information and intelligence from across the whole of the UK, said Mr Vickers.

Assets seized “The National Wildlife Crime Unit (NWCU) continues to support us, and this year we are ready to use legislation in new ways against hare coursers, to seize property, assets and dogs to make hare coursing as difficult, and unattractive as possible.

Mr Vickers said police were also worthing with the NFU and Country Land and Business Association to

Continuing to support farming families and businesses • Agricultural Valuations • Sales and Auctions • Land and Estate Management • Subsidies and Stewardship • Landlord and Tenant • Planning

Make our team part of yours 8 Market Place

2 Prince of Wales Road

Aylsham | Norfolk | NR11 6EH

Norwich | Norfolk | NR1 1LB

01603 250808

01603 620551

PROVIDING RURAL SURVEYING & LAND AGENCY SERVICES SINCE 1860 Irelands Ad 2020 270 x 160mm.indd 1 52AKANGLIA FARMER • DECEMBER 2020

03/06/2020 15:52

Gang sentenced for hare coursing crimes

seek changes to legislation that would make it easier to combat hare-coursing, with their efforts recognised in parliament.

Many forces now use drones to monitor and track hare-coursers – using footage as evidence in court to secure convictions. Lincolnshire was among the first to invest in the technology, making drones available for in rural areas 24 hours a day.

Drone technology Lincolnshire police and crime commissioner Marc Jones said: “I am delighted the investments I have made in cutting

edge technology and equipment specifically designed for use in rural areas is making a difference.

“Hare coursers do not just have a negative impact on farming communities. The gangs that peddle in this cruel pursuit are responsible for other crimes across our rural communities and our road network.”

NFU Lincolnshire adviser Rhonda Thompson said: “Lincolnshire Police have increased their focus on hare coursing and rural crime in recent years. There have been wins along the way and a reduction in incidents overall, which is really encouraging.”

A group of hare coursers caught with a catapult thanks to tip-offs from the public have been sentenced.

Fredrick Stevens, 54, John Giles, 33, Roddy Teelan, 30, and Samuel Haylett, 31, were reported to police after they were spotted walking lurchers in a field near Putney Hill Road, Prickwillow, near Ely. While officers rushed to the scene a further call came in to say the group were hare coursing in the area. The force’s Rural Crime Action Team (RCAT) put a containment on the area, giving the gang no choice but to give themselves up.

When Mr Giles was spoken to he handed over a catapult and, after being searched, officers found ten large steel hex nuts in his jacket pocket. As officers were searching Mr Teelan, he threw his phone to the ground in a botched attempt to break it.

All four men were handed a 48-hour dispersal order forbidding them from coming back to Cambridgeshire and subsequently charged with hare coursing offences. They were fined a total of £3751 including costs.

RCAT detective constable Tom Nuttall said: “Our message is simple – don’t come coursing in Cambridgeshire. Driving hare coursing out of the county is a priority for my team and we will continue to use all of our powers to bring coursers to justice.”

Leading The Field We support the farming community in which we live and work.

Even with the challenges imposed by Brexit & Covid we continue to provide proactive professional services for farms & landed estates

Please contact our agricultural team for a free, initial discussion Our clients are more than just numbers.

Tailored services to meet your needs.

Contact Chris Solt at our Norwich office on 01603 663300 or Ryan Lincoln at our Halesworth office on 01986 873163. www.lovewell-blake.co.uk

Argents Accountants...Where

count

T:01603 666132 info@argentsaccountants.co.uk Argentsaccountants.co.uk DECEMBER 2020 • ANGLIA FARMER 53

Professional Services

Reform is opportunity to cultivate landlord-tenant relationship • Sweeping changes to tenancy rules • More opportunity for younger farmers • Forward-thinking agreements benefit

form have implications for farm landlords and tenants – and could help ensure both parties know where they stand in relation to one another.

F

Dispute resolution For the first time, disagreements relating to landlord’s consent and

arm landlords and tenants are being urged to work together to achieve positive outcomes from a landmark reform of agricultural tenancy laws in England.

“Changes like this don’t come around often,’’ says land agent Lulu Burton, of Brown & Co, after the Agriculture Act 2020 set out sweeping changes which represent the first agricultural tenancy reform for more than 20 years.

“It’s certainly not an overhaul of tenancy law but it has made some useful changes – particularly to Agricultural Holdings Act

1986 tenancies – to assist forward thinking parties in a post-Brexit world.’’

The changes are subject to secondary legislation expected later in 2021 before they are enforced.

But they provide an important early framework for landlords and tenants.

“These reforms are an opportunity to cultivate landlord and tenant relationships, focus on future proofing farm businesses and remove barriers to productivity and environmental management on holdings,’’ suggests Ms Burton.

A number of key areas of re-

The changes pave the way for better farm business arrangements, says Lulu Burton

Your legal matters in safe hands for generations

Call us today: 01760 724424 www.hayesandstorr.co.uk

We act for land owners, farmers, growers and businesses connected to agriculture across the Eastern Counties.

• Farm and land sales and purchases • Complex Wills and succession planning • Planning law advice and developments

• Business structure advice • Tenancy and holdings advice • License agreements

Swaffham | Fakenham | King’s Lynn | Holt | Sheringham

54 ANGLIA FARMER • DECEMBER 2020

variation of terms can be referred to arbitration or a third party.

This could prove particularly useful where outdated clauses in tenancy agreements prevent diversification activities or environmental land management, Ms Burton advises.

“This was possible by agreement before but this change assists those who might have met resistance before and sets the tone, in addition to providing a route for dispute resolution where parties cannot agree.’’

It may assist tenants with diversification, Environmental Land Management (ELM) scheme requirements, and with accessing public money for public goods and government grants.

“

These reforms remove barriers to productivity and environmental management

Landlord investments When a tenant agrees to make payments towards improvements made by the landlord, these investments will be disregarded during rent reviews. The aim of this change is to unlock potential investment from landlords.

“This matter was not formalised or considered at arbitration before and the idea is therefore to encourage landlord and tenant investment in long term tenanted holdings,’’ says Ms Burton.

Succession The so-called Commercial Unit

Test, which was widely regarded as a very antiquated test to determine eligibility for succession, has been abolished.

Ms Burton says this opens the door to the prospect of qualifying successors who may already operate an efficient, larger farming business of scale to take on the farming of the holding where they may have been prevented from doing so before.

Amendments have also been made to the criteria around suitability for succession – by introducing consideration for the capacity of the successor to farm the holding ‘commercially to high standards of efficient production and care for the environment’.

Previously, only the agricultural experience of a successor applicant was taken into account but business management, training and skills have been added, while age has been removed as a consideration and replaced with character.

Existing standards around succession are arguably low.

This mean there are benefits to refining criteria to distinguish between forward-thinking commercial agricultural tenants looking for growth and those with a more environmental focus.

Retirement age The abolition of 65 as the minimum age at which a retirement notice may be given will encourage earlier retirement.

As a result, there will be opportunities for young, commercially-minded successors to enter the industry at the right time rather than at a time dictated by the ageing legislation, says Ms Burton.

Rare opportunity to purchase farmland in Essex Almost 200 acres of land are being offered for sale between Fyfield and Willingale in Essex.

Up to 193 acres of mainly grade 2 land are up for grabs – in an area that has seen no land offered for sale during 2020. The four lots give the chance to add land to suit any budget with the guide for the whole set at £1,945,000 reflecting the quality and location.

Agent Simon Dixon Smith, pf Land Partners, said the sale was

an opportunity to invest in the future of farming. The land is being offered by informal tender with a closing date of 8 January.

“The sale of land in the prime arable area of the Roding Valley gives farmers the chance to expand their holdings to seek economies of scale, particularly as environment schemes are likely to reduce the area of cropped land across which to spread fixed costs’.

For full details, call 01376 328297.

Modern properties are usually more energy efficient

Let property: Think long-term about energy efficiency

R

ural landlords needing to carry out energy improvements to meet minimum standards for private rented homes are being advised to aim higher.

Landlords may want to aim for a higher Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating than is currently legally required in anticipation of planned changes to the rules, according to property specialists Strutt & Parker.

The government recently published a consultation seeking views on raising the minimum EPC rating from an E to a C from 1 April 2025 for new tenancies and for all tenancies by 2028, says the firm.

“Although this is currently only a proposal, so the details may change, it clearly demonstrates the direction of travel when it comes to energy performance standards,” explains Yasmin Peach, graduate surveyor in Strutt & Parker’s Stamford office.

“It feels like a sensible approach for landlords to consider long-term solutions for their rented properties, particularly given the current availability of possible funding through the Green Homes Grant to help support this investment.”

Landlords looking for ways

to bring F and G rated properties up to standards may want to consider the steps needed to reach a C rating, rather than E, says Ms Peach. Landlords with a property currently rated D or E may wish to consider a similar approach.

Moving to a C rating is likely to be challenging for some farms and rural estates which rent out traditional and listed properties. It is more difficult to reach the required standards in a cost-effective way, without risking damaging the fabric of the building.

But there are circumstances where it is possible to apply for an exemption. A government consultation, which closes on 30 December, also suggests introducing a ‘fabric first’ approach to making improvements.

This would mean prioritising those measures which improve the fabric of the building in terms of its energy efficiency, through insulation and draught-proofing, before making improvements to heat and electricity generation systems.

It also proposes increasing maximum amount a landlord will be expected to invest in order to raise energy standards from £3,500 to £10,000 (including VAT).

DECEMBER 2020 • ANGLIA FARMER 55

Anglia December 2020

Machinery

Loadall goes all electric as zero emissions take centre stage See p58

Switching to different fuel eliminates filter blockages • Problems caused by biofuel content • Cleaner-burning diesel resolves issue • No modifications needed to engines

Roger (left) and Nick Watts say the problem has been resolved

T

wo Suffolk farms say they have eliminated filter blockages in machinery by changing the fuel and using a different brand.

Like a number of farms in the region, blockages caused by higher levels of biological content in red diesel were causing a serious headache for F S Watts & Sons, Framlingham; and Home Farm Nacton, near Ipswich.

Problems began after recent changes to the levels of renewable content in red diesel under the Renewable Transport Fuel Obligation (RTFO) led to farmers experiencing filter blockages in vehicles and fuel storage tanks.

The RTFO regulations require a certain percentage of fuel to come from renewables. As fuel suppliers must meet this obligation by law, many are blending a type of biodiesel called FAME (fatty acid methyl ester) into red diesel to achieve the higher targets.

FAME-containing fuels absorb and retain more than conventional mineral diesels. This means bulk fuel stocks containing FAME can be at more at risk of contamination that causes diesel bug, fuel separation or waxing.

Damage and downtime Furthermore, as FAME is made from biological content, it has reduced storage stability, degrading more quickly than conventional fuels, leading to gum formation in storage, filter blockages and damage to machinery in operation.

FS Watts & Sons were suffering from significant machinery downtime during 56 ANGLIA FARMER • DECEMBER 2020

the busy autumn cultivation, ploughing and drilling period. Tractors would lose all power after around 150 hours of running time, requiring frequent maintenance call outs.

Home Farm Nacton experienced a similar range of issues caused by biological content in red diesel. Clogged filters were leading to tractors breaking down not only in the fields but also – on one occasion – in the middle of a road.

Since switching to Shell GTL Fuel, a cleaner burning diesel alternative supplied by Certas Energy, however, neither business has experienced a single fuel filter blockage or related breakdown. Both farms purchase fuel via Fram Farmers.

Worthwhile change Roger Watts, partner at FS Watts & Sons, said: “When you factor in the downtime, maintenance and filters re-

“

We’ve not had to change any of our filters since

placements we were having to deal with because of the problems with red diesel, making the change has been well worth it.”

With a shelf life of up to five years, a cold-filter plugging point of -20°C and zero bio content, Shell GTL Fuel is a cleaner-burning paraffinic fuel that reduces emissions of harmful nitrogen oxides and particulate matter to improve local air quality.

Gavin Prentice, field labour manager at Home Farm Nacton, said: “It’s cleaner burning, it lasts longer in storage and – most importantly – we’ve not had to change any of our filters since using it.”

Shell GTL Fuel can be used in existing heavy duty diesel vehicles and machinery without the need for engine modifications. It can also be stored in bulk fuel tanks and blended with red diesel for ease of use and handling.

Hosplant Sales join Pottinger network Essex-based Kubota dealer Hosplant Sales has been appointed to the Pottinger UK dealer network.

Pottinger UK general manager Shaun Groom said the partnership was a natural fit. The two companies shared the same ethos – including an enviable reputation for first class customer service, he added.

Mr Groom said: “I am pleased the team at Hosplant recognised that Pottinger can offer the products and aftersales support they need to provide their customers with innovative and quality machinery.”

Hosplant agricultural sales director Aaron Graves said the Pottinger brand had a reputation for supplying quality implements – and allowed the company to offer a full range of attachments to meet all the needs of the farming community in our region.

Teamwork (l-r): Shaun Groom and Stephen Passam of Pottinger UK with Aaron Graves, Adrian Mays & Gary Mold of Hosplant Sales.

Fendt unveils latest generation of seed sowing robots

M

achinery giant AGCO says it has further enhanced its next generation of Fendt field robots as part of a strategic research project.

Following extensive testing, the new series of Xaver sowing robots includes completely new inner workings – or seed units. Researchers at the company have been working on the technology and robotics since 2017.

Ecological benefits such as low ground pressure and energy consumption, zero noise pollution, leaks or emissions, are playing an increasingly important role in a modern agriculture, says Fendt.

Smart Farming techniques will

“

The robots are said to space the seed with utmost precision

eventually replace manual field operations, adds the company. The elimination of monotonous work will pave the way for more sustainably produced food, it adds.

Precision planting “Through precision planting, we have been able to draw on the AGCO Group’s agronomy expertise and proven technology to produce our seed sowing robots,” says Benno Pichlmaier, Fendt’s director of global technology and innovation.

“We were able to adapt the modules of the first Xaver generation and combine them with the new seed unit.

Proven concepts have been combined Seeds are dropped in the furrow by a flexible firmer

with the innovative robotics design, which has led to a new, integrated system.”

The robots are said to space the seed with utmost precision. With the help of an electrically driven control system, individual seeds are deposited with centimetre-accuracy at a pre-defined distance in the row.

Seeds are dropped in the furrow by a flexible firmer. In the future, sensors will measure soil moisture, temperature, organic soil content and plant residues. This varies the seed depth and seed rate according to the local conditions.

Three-wheel concept Based on a three-wheeled concept, robot compacts the soil gently to the side and above the seed, closing the soil around the seed to preserve moisture and initiate germination. The last wheel is the drive wheel, which also acts as a gauge wheel.

The latest generation of the field robot is also equipped with a lane guidance system, which controls the vehicle with centimetre-accuracy. Field data is exchanged seamlessly between the robot and database, making light work of decision-making.

“The cornerstones of our swarm system are scalability in terms of investment costs and impact, minimising failure risks from robot redundancy, and integrating autonomy and precision farming”, says Dr Pichlmaier.

DECEMBER 2020 • ANGLIA FARMER 57

Anglia Machinery

Loadall goes all electric as zero emissions take centre stage

J

CB is launching its first ever electric Loadall as the expansion of its E-Tech range of zero-emissions machines gathers pace.

More than 43 years after the company pioneered the concept of telescopic handlers, the wraps have come off the 525-60E, a fully electric version of the popular Loadall.

Future needs Designed to deliver the same performance as the conventional diesel-powered machine – 2,500kg maximum lift and 2,000kg to the 6.0m full lift height – the Loadall 525-60E has been designed to meet the current and future needs of customers in a variety of industry sectors, providing zero-emissions operation for working inside livestock buildings, crop grading and storage sheds, glasshouses and polytunnels, while also complementing the growing use of bat-

tery-powered professional groundscare machinery used by golf courses and specialist contractors.

In addition, the new telehandler can draw on low-cost renewable energy on farms and other rural enterprises that generate their own ‘green’ electricity, offering a true zero-emissions load handling solution for use in agriculture and commercial horticulture, as well as for groundscare, landscaping, construction and industrial applications.

Pioneering JCB Chief Innovation Officer Tim Burnhope said: “JCB has taken a pi-

“

We are very excited about the prospects for this machine

oneering lead in the move to electric propulsion in construction, agricultural and industrial machinery, having successfully introduced the 19C-1E mini excavator and the 30-19E Teletruk to the market.

“As world market leader for telescopic handlers, the launch of the JCB 525-60E Loadall takes equipment electrification further into general construction, industrial and agricultural markets, offering a zero emissions load handling solution with no compromise in performance or productivity. We are very excited about the prospects for this machine.”

The 525-60E uses two proven electric motors, one for the driveline and the second to power the hydraulic system. The 17kW traction motor drives through a permanent four-wheel drive dropbox to proven JCB drive/steer axles.

A 22kW hydraulic system motor

Mazzotti updates self-propelled sprayers

J

ohn Deere subsidiary Mazzotti has updated and extended its MAF range of self-propelled sprayers for 2021.

Operating from its base in Italy, the company focuses on building self-propelled sprayers that offer high customer value.

For 2021, the existing MAF 2580 (2500-litre capacity), 3180 (3000-litre) and 3580 (3500-litre) models will feature multiple upgrades, including a new solution system, a new wider range of spray booms, John Deere spray controls and a new operator station.

New addition The MAF range will also see the addition of a new compact high-capacity machine, the MAF 4080.

This features a chassis with a longer wheelbase to enable the larger 4000-litre solution tank to be carried, while maintaining 50/50 weight distribution.

All four models are powered by a 175hp four-cylinder Tier 5 John Deere engine, offering quiet operation, high productivity and fuel efficiency.

The MAF 2580 and 3180 ma58 ANGLIA FARMER • DECEMBER 2020

The 3180 self-propelled sprayer boasts a host of improvements

chines feature a standard 40kph hydrostatic transmission, with the option to specify a high performance system incorporating engine and transmission management with either 40 or 50kph transport speeds.

The high performance transmission is fitted as standard to the larger MAF 3580 and 4080 models. Alternatively, mechanical drive can be specified with the Mc variants, which offer a joy-

stick-controlled, infinitely variable hydro-mechanical transmission.

Utilising mechanical axles to transmit more power to the ground, the Mc versions provide higher traction, superior hill-climbing ability and more efficient road transport.

Upgrade Steering, which features selectable two-wheel, four-wheel or crab

steering modes, has been upgraded. It now features automatic alignment when switching between the modes. Improved steering power offers the ability to fit wider, large diameter tyres.

Four-wheel steering is now automatically disabled at speeds above 14kph and a mechanical locking device is fitted, which improves safety by positively preventing rear axle steering movement when in transport mode.

powers a fixed displacement gear pump, delivering a maximum of 80 litres/min of flow proportional to joystick position, with boom lift/lower controlled by an electro-hydraulic valve block, with hydraulic regeneration on boom lower and retract.

Efficiency The electric motors are 85% efficient, which compares well with the 45% efficiency of a diesel engine. Extensive analysis of customer duty cycles, through JCB’s LiveLink telematics system and on-site studies, tests and evaluation, has allowed JCB engineers to optimise the machine’s battery to meet customer requirements.

The 96V Lithium-ion battery is capable of powering the machine through a full working shift.

The traction drive motor utilises regenerative braking, instead of a traditional braking system, topping up the battery in the process, and automatically turning off when the battery is fully charged. The hydraulic system regenerates oil flow flow whilst lowering the boom, reducing the power requirement and extending operating hours.

Merry Christmas from Luke, Karen & Pippa

Grain | Seed | Fertiliser 01763 878580 07775 618297 luke@patersonag.co.uk DECEMBER 2020 • ANGLIA FARMER 59

Anglia Machinery

Lexion 8900 fuel use as low as 40p/tonne

O

n farm tests of the Claas Lexion 8900 conducted on two UK farms during harvest suggest it is one of the most fuel efficient combine harvesters – as well as having one of the highest capacities.

Harvesting both the headland and the main body of the fields the Lexion 8900 recorded fuel consumption figures as low as 0.95 litres/tonne while maintaining an average throughput of 94 tonnes/ hour.

The test was conducted over the course of three days working in Northumberland and Perth. Claas says it was carried in less than ideal conditions that were typical of those experienced by many farmers during harvest 2020.

“We wanted the assessment as far as possible to realistically reflect the efficiency of the new Lexion 8900 in a true farm environment,” said Adam Hayward, Claas UK product manager for combine harvesters.

Using telematics data Claas UK has also analysed total fuel consumption figures for all the Lexion 8900 combines working in the UK this year. This showed that for all engine hours, total fuel consumption averaged just 66 litres/hour.

Fuel consumption for the Lexion 780 and its replacement the Lexion 8800 were also analysed.

At 65 litres/hour, the Lexion 8800 was 3 litres/hour more efficient, which equates to a saving of £378 with red diesel at 42ppl over a typical 300 engine hours per season.

In a 38ha wheat crop yielding 12.57t/ha, the Lexion maintained an overall average throughput of 94t/ha, including the headlands.

It used 11.98 litre/ha or 0.95l/t.

In a 27ha block of wheat yielding

7.84t/ha, fuel use was just 8.88l/ ha or 1.15l/t.

“Fuel is a major running cost,” says Mr Hayward.

“While the Lexion 8900 may be one of the most powerful combines on the market, these assessments demonstrate how modern technology all help to also make it one of the most fuel efficient combines on the market.”

Richard Betts 4x4 (Lincoln) Ltd. www.richardbetts4x4.co.uk

2018 THWAITES 3 TON DUMPER, 537 HOURS, FOLDING ROLL BAR, SEAT BELT, ORANGE & GREEN BEACON, GOOD TYRES ALL ROUND. £11,750

2015 TEREX TA3H 3 TON HYDROSTATIC DUMPER, 1377 HOURS, ROLL BAR, SEAT BELT, ORANGE & GREEN BEACON, KUBOTA ENGINE. £9,500

2018 THWAITES 3 TON DUMPER, 504 HOURS, FOLDING ROLL BAR, SEAT BELT, ORANGE & GREEN BEACON, GOOD TYRES ALL ROUND. £11,750

1996 KRAMER 312 LEX LAODER, SINGLE LEVER HYDRAULICS, HYD/ LOCKING PINS, TWIN SPEED, SHUTTLE FORWARD REVERSE, 4WS/2WS, DEUTZ ENGINE, C/W BUCKET & TINES. £8,500 NO VAT

DISCOVER OUR SMALL TOOLS AND MACHINERY DIVISION AT WWW.SITEMACHINERY.CO.UK. STOCKING HIGH QUALITY USED PORTABLE TOOLS FOR SALE

2008 INGERSOLL RAND 7/26E COMPRESSOR, 2291 HOURS, 90CFM, 2 TOOL, 3 CYLINDER YANMAR ENGINE, FAST TOW, C/W AIR LINE & BREAKER. £2,750

2011 JCB VMT 160 800 TWIN VIBRATING DRUM ROLLER, 612 HOURS, ROLL BAR, SEAT BELT, BEACON, WATER, KUBOTA ENGINE. £6,950

NEW 2020 BAILEY 17 TON DUMP TRAILER, AIR & OIL BRAKES, 10 STUD COMMERCIAL AXELS, SPRUNG DRAW BAR,10MM FLOOR, 8MM SIDES, SUPER SINGLES, LED ROAD LIGHTS. £14,750

T: 01522 246 522 F: 01522 731 213

Richard: 07860 575 155 James: 07764 511 257 E: james@richardbetts4x4.co.uk 2007 BARFORD SXR3000 3 TON SWIVEL SKIP DUMPER, 1467 HOURS, ROLL BAR, SEAT BELT, BEACON, KUBOTA ENGINE. £5,950

60 ANGLIA FARMER • DECEMBER 2020

PLANT TRAILERS – WE HAVE A RANGE OF PLANT TRAILERS AVAILABLE FOR SALE PLEASE CALL TO DISCUSS YOUR REQUIREMENT. P.O.A

www.agriculturalbuildingconstruction.co.uk info@agriculturalbuildingconstruction.co.uk Tel: 07981 031613 / 01945 660231 Wisbech, Cambs

Specialists in Agricultural & Industrial Steel Framed Buildings Agricultural Building Construction Ltd operate nationwide, providing steel framed buildings with associated groundworks and concrete flooring. Our aim is to provide a high quality product at an affordable price combined with a customer service second to none. Our structures are multi-purpose ranging from: • Dairy housing • Beef housing • Sheep housing • Crop storage

• Silage clamps • Grain stores • Workshops • General stores

So why should you call us today?

• Free quotation • Competitive rates • All work fully insured • Skilled, committed staff • Highly professional service • Plant hire available with operator

FINAL SAY Fen Tiger

Humble spud, humble profits Potato growers deserve our respect – it’s a stressful enterprise and there are easier ways of making money, says Fen Tiger.

I

have limited knowledge of the potato sector – and even less experience growing them. But being in semi-retirement, I found my knowledge increasing this autumn as I helped out with the potato harvest.

As I worked, I listened intently to the growers around me discussing the previous 2019 harvest. All agreed it was a season to forget, with difficult lifting conditions and the price then plummeting due to the coronavirus lockdown.

Before coronavirus, many people were expecting a potato shortage. But the closure of food outlets throughout Europe put an end to that – leaving some growers unable to shift in-store crops other than by roadside sales.

That said, very few growers had reduced their acreage. In fact, some had even increased it for this year’s crop. The dry spring of 2020 at first was welcomed. It got the season off to a good start and made planting easier.

Ups and downs But the prolonged lack of rain which followed meant those growers without irrigation soon started to worry. Almost half the crop lacks access to water so when a decent amount of

62 ANGLIA FARMER • DECEMBER 2020

rainfall finally fell in June, it was welcomed by everyone.

As September approached, growers were looking forward to harvest full of hope and expectation. Crops were looking reasonable and a repeat of last year’s challenging season looked increasingly unlikely.

But some processors are still working their way through their contracted supplies with little tonnage purchased on the free buy markets. Growers continue to shift spuds at £80140 per tonne, with cheaper potatoes being moved due to storage concerns.

Which brings me to something which I fail to understand. And a question to which I can’t find the answer – from any grower.

With most farmers selling at least a proportion of their tonnage on contract, what is the breakeven price?

Big money crop The costs quoted to me just for growing the crop from planting through to harvest are eye-watering. In storage, those costs rise further because some products to reduce in-store growth have been banned and replaced with more expensive alternatives.

One grower who puts everything possible into his final costs down to the last office paperclip said a £200/t price was break even on his 800ha. Another large grower quoted £165/t and a smaller grower with less than 12ha quoted £130/t.

One grower who would only say he was growing a reduced area this year but expected his tonnage to increase was hoping to increase his profit margin by reducing crop losses – in other words better management across fewer acres.

But I am still no further forward. Some of the farmers were using their own land to grow potatoes. But most rented. Some were travelling 50 miles from their main store. Rents varied from £675/ha to £1000/ha. It’s big money.

Anxiety and admiration The only conclusion I came to was that potatoes involve lots of physical and mental stress.

And it is taking its toll. One grower had been rushed to hospital after slumping over his steering wheel. One had heart concerns and the other anxiety.

That stress can only increase during another wet autumn with low prices and the temporary closure of the food service industry. Social distancing measures will concern customers and reduce demand further.

And with changing tastes in food, the humble spud is struggling against the flavour and variety of more global dishes. You have to admire the growers for their belief in the industry and its future.

When things go their way, potato growers make a healthy profit. But this only seems to happen one year in five. Easier crops make less money but it is the well-being that concerns me.

Like us all, I hope they are able to take a well-earned rest over Christmas and have a safe and rewarding New Year.

ANGLIA FARMER BUSINESS DIRECTORY EAR PROTECTION

Custom Moulded Ear Defenders

Ultra comfortable, re-usable & last for years. Acoustic filter allows you to still hear everything, whilst protecting you from harmful noise levels.

Available with CE approval. Earpieces are custom moulded from soft silicone, and offer the highest degree of comfort whilst providing an effective acoustic barrier. Choice of colours available.

Ideal for shooting - maximum protection without imparing hearing.

Autotel Ltd - 01508 528837 • www.autotelradio.co.uk

PEST CONTROL

COMMAND PEST CONTROL LTD

• RODENT CONTROL

• GRAIN FUMIGATION • GRAIN MONITORING • GRAIN STORE TREATMENTS

TEL: 01787 248049

Local staff in all regions covered by Anglia Farmer www.commandpestcontrol.co.uk Command House, Church Lane, Preston St Mary, Suffolk CO10 9NQ

NURSERY

TANKS

Sandy Lane Nursery Wattisfield, Diss, Norfolk

Native and ornamental trees, hedging and shrubs Tel: 01359 251678 sales@sandylanenursery.co.uk www.sandylanenursery.co.uk

INDUSTRIAL STORAGE TANKS HIRE - NEW - USED 01502 710100 info@regaltanks.co.uk

MATERIALS & MACHINERY

Grademore Ltd

KING KING

Suppliers of Reclaimed Telegraph Poles, New & Reclaimed Railway Sleepers, Concrete Railway Sleepers, Motorway Crash Barriers.

Horizontal Cylindrical Tank Horizontal Cylindrical Tanks From litres litres From54,500 10,000 litrestoto27,250 54,500 litres(12,000 - 6,00

(2,000-12,000 gallon) Single and twin compartments, with crad Single and twin compartments, with Bunded cradles Tanks

01760 724237 www.grademore.com enquiries@grademore.com

From 27,000 litres to 10,000 litres (6,000 - 2,000 Bunded Tanks

T.G. ASKEW

With cabinet, guage and alarm From 10,000 litres to 27,000 litres (2,000-6,000 gallon) All suitable for fuel, water and efflu With cabinet, gauge and alarm

BRUNDISH ROAD, WILBY, EYE, SUFFOLK IP21 5LR

Bulk haulage • Aggregate Road Planings • Stock Feed For further information please contact T: 01379 388156 F: 01379 388109 Email: jeremy@tgaskew.co.uk LANDSCAPING & MAINTENANCE

STORAGE TAN STORAGE TANKS

Call today for details

suitable 712328 for fuel, water and effluent.

Call today for details TelAll01638 www.thekinggroup.co.uk/t

Tel 01638 712328

tanks@thekinggroup.co.uk

INSULATION

Sprayed Foam Insulation Specialists

FOR A FREE QUOTE CALL: 01405 812682 Crow Tree Farm, Crow Tree Bank, Thorne Levels, Doncaster, South Yorkshire, DN8 5TF info@webstersinsulation.com www.webstersinsulation.com LIGHTING

EXTREME LIGHTING FOR EXTREME MACHINES

BLUE BOOM SPRAYER KITS NOW AVAILABLE

TO ADVERTISE IN THE ANGLIA FARMER BUSINESS DIRECTORY CALL 01502 725144

Using class leading technology, Wilderness Lighting supply some of the highest quality and brightest LED lighting available on the market today for both on and off road use.

www.wildernesslighting.co.uk | 01525 852419

Supporting our manufacturing Perfect for new build grain stores • • • •

Suits overhead conveyor filled stores.

Easy to position and move fans.

Pedestals more secure when filling.

Warm air expelled out of store.

Available in:

OXFORDSHIRE: 500 tonne mixed crop store WARWICKSHIRE: 5000 tonne wheat store

CAMBRIDGE: Used for part of a 100,000 tonne commercial storage operation

WILTSHIRE: 1000 tonne wheat & spring barley store

Polycool Laterals

ROMANIA: 10,000 tonnes of grain maize YORKSHIRE: 10,000 tonnes of wheat for animal feed - another system on order

Floor based ventilation systems Currently our fastest selling product EV Fans connect directly to 450mm duct through an external wall to cool stored crops.

EV high pressure fans for grain ventilation Designed specifically for dust laden air conditions and are available in a variety of standards and finishes including mild steel, ATEX and Stainless Steel alternatives.

• Built to order in sizes 0.75kw-75kw.

• Perfect for blowing air through under floor channels or floor ducts, for cooling and conditioning crops.

• Offer flow rates up to 90,000m3 per hour and pressures up to 300Mbar (120 in.s WG).

Grain maize in Romania

LAST YEAR WE BLEW IT Animal feed in Yorkshire Miscanthus for horse bedding in Cornwall

Great hat-trick of EV benefits 3 High quality 3 UK built 3 Competitively priced

Tel: 01935 850750 • www.evansandpearce.com