Midland Farmer April 2021

April 2021

Midland

Farmer Serving the farming industry across the Midlands

Grass and forage: How multi-cut silage helps combat drought

News Defra unveils details of farm incentive scheme Arable Forecasts help growers combat sclerotinia Livestock Better fertiliser timings boost silage yields Technology New fund to support farm innovation Clodhopper Screen test for farm machinery

Beef prices: Contract provides certainty for farmers

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Midland Farmer

OPINION Johann Tasker

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: 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 Alistair Bailey | T: 01502 725854 E: alistair.bailey@micropress.co.uk Daniel Rice | T: 01502 725858 E: daniel.rice@micropress.co.uk

Midland Farmer is a controlled circulation magazine published monthly for farmers and growers in the Midlands (Derbyshire, Herefordshire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, Northamptonshire, Nottinghamshire, Shropshire, Staffordshire, Warwickshire, West Midlands and Worcestershire) or companies supplying goods and services to the sector. 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.

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 Printers Ltd T: 01502 725800

Pilot scheme gives farmers chance to shape future

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s previewed in the last Midland Farmer, the government has now published details of its Sustainable Farming Incentive – the first of three schemes which together will eventually form the forthcoming Environmental Land Management (ELM) scheme.

It is important for growers and livestock producers to take an interest in ELMs. It will be introduced as direct payments are phased out – offering farmers an opportunity to recoup at least some of their lost BPS income.

Rather than an annual payment received in return for following some basic rules and filling in an annual claim to the Rural Payments Agency, it is already clear that farmers who join ELMs will have to do much more for their money.

Much of the scheme will involve farmers delivering what Defra has called public goods – public benefits such as a better environment; more wildife and biodiversity; and cleaner air and water. All of that will take time and money.

Contents

For the Sustainable Farming Incentive to deliver these public goods, it is vital that the new scheme attracts as many farmers as possible – otherwise people simply won’t sign up.

To help ensure the scheme is attractive, Defra is giving farmers the opportunity to submit expressions of interest in joining a pilot version of the Sustainable Farming Incentive.

There is already concern that suggested payment rates need to be higher to properly reflect the amount of environmental work farmers are expected to undertake.

Farmers who join the pilot have a chance to rectify this – telling Defra how the scheme and payments should be adjusted – to secure maximum benefit, both financially and environmentally.

We would urge our readers to consider submitting expressions of interest to join the pilot version of the Sustainable Farming Incentive. Details of how to do so are on page 4. As the saying goes, you have to be in it, to win it.

Vol 10 • No 4 • April 2021

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

Midland Machinery .................................... 36

Arable .................................................................. 9

Technology ..................................................... 40

Potatoes .............................................................16

Professional services.................................. 45

Grass and Forage ...........................................29

Final say ........................................................... 46

Livestock .......................................................... 35

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News Defra unveils details of farm incentive scheme • Have your say on design of new scheme • Tailored to individual farm businesses • ‘Most significant change’ for 50 years

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armers are being invited to submit expressions of interest in a new Defra scheme to reward producers who undertake sustainable agricultural practices.

The Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) will form the entry level to the government’s forthcoming Environmental Land Management (ELM) scheme. The scheme is being introduced as basic payments are phased out over the next seven years.

Defra says ELMs will see the most significant change to farm management in 50 years. It aims to deliver a renewed agricultural sector, healthy food and farms that are profitable and economically sustainable.

The SFI is the first of three schemes ELMs to be piloted. Information about the other two schemes, Local Nature Recovery and Landscape Recovery, will be published later this year.

Soil health Similar to environmental stewardship, the SFI will support approaches to farming that deliver better biodiversity, including actions to improve soil health, hedgerows and integrated pest management.

This could include, for example, payments to farmers who manage and plant hedgerows to provide yearround food, shelter and breeding cover for birds and insects, or take actions to boost soil organic matter.

Defra secretary George Eustice said the goal was to properly reward farmers for undertaking environmental measures. He added: “The ethos at the heart of our future policy is to support the choices of individual farm enterprises.”

NFU vice president Tom Bradshaw said the union wanted it to be possible for most farms to take up the scheme. He added: “Every farm business is unique and the scheme needs 4 MIDLAND FARMER • APRIL 2021

to be structured so that it offers something for every farmer.”

Mr Bradshaw said the scheme must be engaging for farmers, simple to enter and deliver and operate effectively alongside productive food production.

He added: “Most importantly of all, the scheme needs to enable farmers to run profitable businesses. We understand

the pilot is very much a work in progress and it is imperative that Defra uses it to work with farmers to test and develop a scheme that works and is accessible to all farm businesses.”

Farmers will need to complete a simple online form to submit expressions of interest in the new scheme. Successful candidates will then be invited to complete an application to join a pilot agreement from October 2021.

Farmers have until 11 April to submit an expression of interest. For further information about the SFI, visit www. bit.ly/FarmIncentive

“

Farmers need to be able to run profitable businesses

FCN volunteer Chloe Dunne is part of the Rural+ training development group

Help for young farmers’ wellbeing New training is available to help young farmers better manage their mental wellbeing and resilience.

Support – which will take the form of new Rural+ training modules – is being developed by the Farming Community Network, the National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs and the DPJ Foundation.

Called Supporting Together, the initiative has been made possible by funding from the Westminster Foundation, which encourage young people in farming families to plan early for restructuring within the industry.

Training will focus on understanding stress and anxiety; managing personal mental well-

being; how to talk about mental health; seeking support and supporting other people in a similar situation.

The first training modules will be delivered from this month with more following later.

NFYFC Youth Forum chairman Richard Jeyes said: “The Rural+ training module will give Young Farmers’ Clubs an essential resource to support their members’ wellbeing.”

He added: “We hope this training will help to improve resilience as we face major changes in the industry and additional pressures from the pandemic. We are delighted to help equip young farmers with vital skills to help them manage future challenges.”

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News

Red Tractor campaign targets TV viewers

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new TV advert promoting Red Tractor foodstandards is targeting 45m viewers – the scheme’s biggest evet campaign.

The ad is appearing over eight weeks during some of the UK’s most-watched TV shows – supported by a strong presence on digital channels.

Red Tractor says it expects 45m consumers to watch the ad

before the May Bank Holiday weekend. This would represent a 20% increase in viewers compared to the scheme’s 2020 campaign, it said.

Chief executive Jim Moseley said: “Red Tractor is already the most trusted assurance scheme in the UK, with 76% of shoppers aware of the logo, seeing it as an independent source they can trust. That’s equivalent to 15.5

million shoppers.

“We want to keep growing recognition and understanding of the scheme and the logo, and so the campaign will cover as many of Red Tractor’s sectors as possible” Independent market research shows that 71% of shoppers say their purchasing behaviour is positively influenced by seeing the Red Tractor logo.

The ad follows a shopper on a journey from supermarket to farms and back again to learn how Red Tractor’s high standards are met across a diverse range of sectors.

Plans unveiled for sustainable school of food and farming • Knowledge and skills for farmers • Academic and practical expertise • Aim to boost on-farm productivity

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“

RAFT Solutions to deliver this critically-needed collaboration which will support the transition to a more sustainable food system.”

Initial targets will centre on net-zero UK agriculture. But the ambition of the school will include wider aspects of sustainability including biodiversity, animal welfare, rural community support, green energy production and farm profitability.

Prof Statham added: “Reducing the waste of poor health and reproductive inefficiency alongside delivering practical precision livestock farming solutions is where our work supports sustainable farming.”

Morrisons head of agriculture Sophie Throup said: “We are making a significant investment into this project as part of our pledge to be the first supermarket to be directly supplied by net zero carbon British farms by 2030.

lans are in progress to develop the UK’s first School of Sustainable Food and Farming at Harp- There are er Adams University, in Shropshire.

The school will draw on academic win-win and practical expertise – and indus- opportunities try networks – to develop knowledge for farmers Practical advice and skills for farmers and other sup- and the planet The school will seek to develop practi- Partnership ply chain businesses who are commitcal advice and guidance to help farm- Ms Throup added: We look forward to ted to reducing the environmental imers adjust their practices to be more working as a partnership and to bringpact of food production. sustainable. RAFT Solutions will play ing the best brains together within the industry – to provide newFlow breadth Supported by Morrisons, with coa key role in developing practical skills- Feed Equipment - Livestock - Fertiliser - Seedthis - Cash sustainability training for our Britpartner RAFT Solutions, the school training associated with animal Diversifi cation breedProjects -ofBuilding - Debt Consolidation ish farmers.” will support research geared towards ing and health.

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Arable ‘Highly accurate’ forecasts help growers combat sclerotinia • Growers informed of infection risk • Forecasts 96% accurate in 2020 • Helps farmers to target fungicides

Sarah Raffan and Nigel Halford with wheat plants at Rothamsted

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sclerotinia risk alert service has been launched to help oilseed rape growers better target spray programmes.

Based on observed and forecast weather data, the service keeps growers informed of potential sclerotinia infection risk periods.

This helps focus in-field monitoring as oilseed rape enters its critical flowering period.

Launched by the Agriculture & Horticulture Development Board, the service features a web page which includes inoculum-pressure data from a limited network of spore traps and information on crop growth stages.

Analysis of last year’s results showed that the sclerotinia forecasts were about 96% accurate, with only around 2% false negatives, says Catherine Harries, who manages disease research at the AHDB.

Encouraging results “Forecasts are never perfect, but we are encouraged by the results. Information on the presence of spores, weather and crop growth stage can really help target sclerotinia sprays.”

Decisions based on sclerotinia inoculum levels and weather-based infection risk resulted in 26% fewer crops needing treatment last season – helping growers to increase margins, according to AHDB-funded research.

Typically, the optimum time for a single spray is just before mid-flowering on the main raceme. Since fungicides have protectant activity, this spray should be applied prior to an infection risk alert.

Persistence of full-dose fungicides is approximately three weeks, says the AHDB. If a spray is made earlier – or if the flowering period is extended – a second spray may be required under conducive infection conditions.

Scientists apply to grow first UK field of gene-edited wheat Scientists have applied to grow the UK’s first field trial of genetically-edited wheat at Rothamsted Research in Hertfordshire.

Researchers from Rothamsted and Bristol University used genome editing to develop the wheat which has been bred to reduce levels of the cancer-causing compound acrylamide – commonly found in toast.

The scientists are now preparing an application to the UK government to run a field trial of the wheat starting in the autumn. It would be the first such trial of genetically-edited wheat to be carried out anywhere in Europe.

The field trial will be led by Sarah Raffan, who used gene-editing to reduce the amount of asparagine in the wheat. She said: “Low asparagine wheat should lead to lower levels of acryla-

“

Forecasts are never perfect, but the results are encouraging

mide, which is good news for anyone who likes their toast well done.”

The CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing technique involves the the deletion or insertion of short sections of DNA – or changes to the DNA sequence – in this instance halting the function of a gene involved in asparagine production.

Gene-editing is is different from genetic modification because it doesn’t involve the introduction of novel, foreign or additional genes.

Scientists say it involves changes similar to those that occur naturally.

Project leader Nigel Halford said the wheat was still experimental. “It is essential we test the wheat in field trials to see how it performs, not only in terms of asparagine concentration but also yield, protein content and other quality and agronomic traits.”

If successful, the wheat could be made available to seed breeders. Prof Halford said it could take up to a decade before very low asparagine wheat started to appear on shop shelves – and then only if the regulatory framework was conducive to its development.

Leaf spot and aphids Meanwhile, the AHDB has updated its light leaf spot forecast after a relatively wet winter showed a large jump in oilseed rape disease risk. This tallies with field reports suggesting light leaf spot infection is most evident on susceptible varieties.

The increase in risk – compared with a preliminary forecast last autumn – is generally larger at locations further away from south-east England. Lower

winter temperatures mean aphids are likely to take flight a little later than average this spring.

The annually updated forecasts, produced by the Rothamsted Research Insect Survey, suggest aphids will fly about two or three weeks later in Scotland and northern England – and up to one week later than average over much of the rest of England.

To access the sclerotinia risk alert service, visit ahdb.org.uk/sclerotinia APRIL 2021 • MIDLAND FARMER 9

Arable

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Waxy weeds Ms Symes also points out that dry weather is been another factor contributing to a proliferation of wild oats. “Weeds become really waxy and don’t take up the crop protection products properly – and this is true for wild oats too.”

Growers should adopt an appropriate control strategy as soon as possible, says Ms Symes. The prevalence of this grass weed could continue to increase year on year if small populations are left untreated, she adds.

This is because seeds can remain viable in the soil for up to 20 years. Rogueing – or manually pulling out the weeds – is a straightforward and cost-effective way of nipping small populations of wild oats in the bud.

More severe outbreaks can be cleared up early on with the use of the crop protection product Foxtrot EW –

Younger wild oats are easier to tackle with herbicide.

Photo credit: Blackthorn Arable

rowers are being advised to adopt a thorough control strategy to combat a resurgence in wild oats reported on some farms.

Agronomists say there are several reasons why this fiercely competitive grass weed has become more prevalent – including the recent increase in spring cropping and changing weather conditions.

Spring cereals have largely replaced oilseed rape in areas susceptible to cabbage stem flea beetle and dry weather.

But some replacement crops have most likely been planted on fields with a history of wild oats.

Independent agronomist Sarah Symes says some cultivation systems have created a favourable environment for wild oats to thrive. “Growers who have ploughed a lot in the past tend to get more wild oats than those who use a direct drill, min-till system.”

Photo credit: Blackthorn Arable

Troublesome wild oats return to spring crops

Wild oats in a barley crop (above left). Dry weather and a change towards spring cropping has contributed to a proliferation of wild oats, says Sarah Symes (above right).

a herbicide specially formulated for the post-emergence control of grass weeds in wheat and barley.

Contact herbicide Foxtrot EW should be used in spring barley when the weeds are at the 3-4 leaf stage, says Ms Symes. “It has to be used on its own – but it’s not harsh on the crop if used under the right conditions, when crops aren’t stressed.”

Foxtrot EW is a contact acting herbicide and is more effective on actively growing plants, says Adam Espir of suppliers FMC. “Getting application timings and rates right will be essential to ensure you don’t have problems later with regrowth,” he adds.

Foxtrot should be applied at a rate of 0.8 litres per hectare in at least 200 litres/ha of water. Larger weeds or more dense populations should be tackled with up to one litre of product in 300 litres/ha of water.

“As spring arrives and weeds start growing, growers should think about treating any problem fields in good time to give their crops the best chance to thrive this season,” says Mr Espir.

Industry joins forces against cabbage stem flea beetle

A

cross-industry taskforce is urging oilseed rape growers to join an on-farm monitoring and trials programme against cabbage stem flea beetle.

The group has been set-up to test management methods and tools to combat the pest. Oilseed rape growers will be given information on implementing and assessing management strategies over the next three years.

The project connects two research projects.

The first project is being led by ADAS and Harper Adams University; and funded by the Agricultue and Horticulture Development Board and an industry organisations.

The second project is being led by NIAB and 10 MIDLAND FARMER • APRIL 2021

funded by Defra. It aims to test management methods on a wider scale – encouraging growers to carry out their own trials and assess their effectiveness.

The task-force behind the project includes AHDB, NIAB, ADAS, Harper Adams University, Rothamsted Research, United Oilseeds and Sentry Ltd, alongside independent and distributor agronomy advisors and plant breeding companies.

NIAB oilseed rape specialist and project leader Colin Peters said the goal was to draw together everyone’s knowledge and experience in a coordinated and sustained effort against cabbage stem flea beetle.

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Colin Peters: Coordinated effort against flea beetle

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Arable

Impressive results for late maturing maize

A

new late maturing maize variety with strong potential has successfully come through its first commercial year on eastern region farms.

High-yielding Neutrino has good early vigour, standing ability and resistance to lodging. Bred by German company Saaten Union, the variety’s first commercial season follows three years of replicated independent trials in the UK. Last season, Hutchinsons national energy crop and seed manager Peter Brundle placed Neutrino with a small number of experienced eastern region farmers who grow significant areas of maize for biogas production.

“The variety proved that it is up there with the best performing varieties in the late maturing category,” says Mr Brundle.

“Dry matter yield is the most important factor when selecting varieties for biogas production and the initial results and customer feedback certainly seem to confirm Neutrino’s credentials.”

Neutrino yields keep rising until harvest, says Henrietta Wells (far left).

September forage with an average fresh yield of 55-60t/ha.

Neutrino is marketed in the UK by Elsoms Seeds, which has developed UK-specific maize varieties for more than 20 years. The company now of-

Rising demand Feedback from agronomists – and encouraging trial results – have seen a significant increase in demand for Neutrino this year, says Mr Brundle.

East Anglia is ideal for the variety’s agronomic qualities, he adds.

Originally entered into national list trials in 2018, Neutrino quickly became the highest yielding variety on the list at 21.60t/ha dry matter. It achieves 35% dry matter content at

Customer feedback confirms the variety’s credentials, says Peter Brundle (left).

fers a range of varieties with maturity ratings to suit all farming systems and end markets.

High vigour Elsoms energy and forage crop manager Henrietta Wells says: “It’s a late maturing variety that can be harvested later in the season and its high vigour means it can be drilled early, spreading maize drilling.”

Ms Wells says she is delighted at Neutrino’s early commercial success.

“It has good lodging and brackling resistance – ensuring a safe harvest – and excellent ‘stay green’ scores so yield will keep rising until harvest.

“We have some great material coming through now with new maize varieties like Neutrino being the start of a different way of thinking about getting the highest production from energy crops in the UK.”

Neutrino has good standing ability and resistance to lodging

Stay alert to Septoria, wheat growers urged Higher levels of Septoria have been confirmed in wheat crops this spring – most likely brought on by earlier drilling.

Active infections of Septoria tritici have been detected even in varieties with good resistance where these were drilled early, according to ProCam. Varieties with resistance ratings below six are particularly vulnerable.

ProCam agronomists say the disease is not just confined to lower, older leaves. It is also being found on the next layer of younger leaves – which means it could spread higher up the plant when it rains and start damaging yield.

12 MIDLAND FARMER • APRIL 2021

Early drilling Many growers drilled wheat early last autumn with seed left over from the previous year when wet weather made it impossible to get crops in the ground later, says ProCam head of crop production Mike Thornton (pictured right).

“Good Septoria tritici control from early-season fungicides is set to be particularly important to halt its spread onto higher yield-building leaves – especially now we no longer have the stalwart fungicide, chlorothalonil, against the disease.”

Mr Thornton says specific T0 fungicide options will vary depending on

other diseases present. Although some new fungicide chemistry has curative ability, he believes it could increases the risk of resistance.

“There is an argument that says you don’t get a yield increase from controlling Septoria at the early T0 fungicide timing. That’s fine if you can guarantee you’ll be able to apply later sprays exactly on time. But very often you can’t.”

Mr Thornton says he generally looks to include a multi-site treatment against Septoria of folpet – and potentially an azole if active yellow rust needs controlling, or a strobilurin for protection if yellow rust is a threat.

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Arable

Trials confirm LG Antigua rape offers N-flex trait Plant breeder Limagrain has confirmed that hybrid oilseed rape LG Antigua offers the N-Flex trait – meaning it can use nitrogen more efficiently.

In the field, this means that varieties with the N Flex trait are better able to withstand delayed or sub-optimal nitrogen applications. It makes LG Antigua a four-trait variety encompassing TuYV, pod shatter and RLM7 resistance – and now N-Flex.

Confirmation of the trait follows extensive Limagrain trials over the last few seasons in Europe. The breeder

says it has tested LG Antigua’s performance in optimal and sub-optimal nitrogen conditions.

“Essentially the N-Flex trait means that hybrids containing the trait use each unit of available nitrogen more efficiently than those which don’t,” says Limagrain UK arable marketing manager Will Charlton.

The addition of the N-Flex trait was a good example of Limagrain’s approach to producing hybrid oilseed rape’s that were trait-loaded, said Mr Charlton. Varieties with the N-Flex

trait produced more stable yields year to year, with less in-field yield variability.

High yielding varieties Ambassador and LG Aviron were the first fourtrait loaded varieties, offering genetic resistance to TuYV , pod shatter, RLM7 and the N-Flex trait. LG Antigua now joins this line-up.

“We are carrying out further work in farmer split field trials for the 202021 cropping year to evaluate how NFlex aids spring nitrogen management and secures yields,” said Mr Charlton.

N-flex varieties offer more consistent yields, says Will Charlton

Dates changed for Cereals event This year’s Cereals event will now take place on 30 June and 1 July after organisers decided to hold it after lockdown restrictions are eased.

Event organiser Alli McEntyre said: “Speaking with exhibitors and visitors, we looked at the choice of having a restricted event in early June or moving the date and potentially having no restrictions, and the majority opt-

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14 MIDLAND FARMER • APRIL 2021

ed for the latter.”

Ms McEntyre said it would be a better show without lockdown in place.

Although the government is targeting a full lifting of restrictions before the new date, Ms McEntyre said precautions would still be taken. This would ensure visitors remained safe while being allowed to enjoy the entire event experience.

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Potatoes Robust blight strategy vital to tackle pesticide resistance • Alternative modes of action needed • Fungicide availability is challenge • Integrated approach offers solution

P

esticide resistance and the withdrawal of key chemicals could leave growers with just eight ways to combat potato blight, say scientists.

A robust blight resistance strategy is needed to combat the problem – but success will depend on good planning, alternative modes of action, and the adoption of future technologies, growers have been told.

Managing pesticide resistance in potato crops – including chemistry to target late blight – was explored

by Faye Ritchie from ADAS during a recent seminar hosted by the Crop Health and Protection (CHAP) agritech innovation centre.

Modes of action Pesticide resistant blight strains and legislative changes which have seen key chemicals withdrawn mean growers could be left with just eight viable modes of action against the disease, warned Dr Ritchie.

Alternating between these different modes of action within the spray

“

Take time to devise a plan ahead of the season where possible

Resistant cultivars will have a bigger role in combating blight

How support systems combat blight Decision support systems are becoming an increasingly important way to combat problems like pesticide resistant blight.

CropMonitor Pro is an independent pest and disease risk prediction platform developed by Fera for the Crop Health and Protection (CHAP) agri-tech centre. It analyses yield-impacting data – including weather, crop growth stages, disease levels, insect counts and disease spore loads.

Data from more than 30 monitoring sites is then translated into field-level risk alerts – helping growers make timely decisions to combat diseases such as potato late blight, as well as aphid and slug pressure.

CHAP business development manager Chris Delf (pictured) said: “Attitudes are changprogramme – and using approved tank mixes and co-formulated products – offered the most effective approach to help manage resistance development, she added.

But tactics such as adjusting spray

ing and farmers are looking to more sophisticated decision support tools such as CropMonitor Pro to support wider integrated crop management (IPM) goals.”

Technology could help overcome on-farm problems such as resistance management, said Mr Delf. “Knowing the level of risk and then applying the appropriate products accordingly means we really get the most from those products.”

This was important from a financial perspective. Without mancozeb as a multisite fungicide, blight spray programmes costs would increase. “Farmers and agronomists will be looking for reassurance that their input investment will be worth it.” timings were less effective.

Dr Ritchie said potato growers were faced with two main challenges when trying to overcome late blight: fungicide availability and changes in the pathogen population. Both these challenges were linked.

Integrated approach “Developing a robust strategy for resistance management based on an integrated approach will also help to overcome the issue of fungicide availability – particularly pertinent given the status of mancozeb.

“The first steps should always be to take time to devise a plan ahead of the season, including non-chemical strategies. This should include controlling potential sources of the pathogen, such as outgrade piles.”

Fungicide tank mixes, co-formulated products and alternating modes of action were an effective use of available chemistry. But other measures – such as resistant cultivars – would increasingly allow greater flexibility and help reduce dose rates.

16 MIDLAND FARMER • APRIL 2021

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Potatoes

Storage facility maintains crop quality throughout season • Air-flow and pressure remains consistent • Remote monitoring and management • Wet crops dried and cured effectively

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Shropshire potato grower is reaping the rewards after building his own on-farm store for the crop – rather than sending it direct from field to processor.

Ollie Bright (pictured below), of Montford Farm, Shrewsbury, said he traditionally sent his crop to McCains straight after harvest. But the company persuaded him that storage would be a major advantage – and their advice had turned out to be the right move.

The family grows a range of varieties on sandy loam soils, all irrigated.

Some 2,500 tonnes of Maris Piper are now stored in the new facility, with varieties like Premier, Royal and Maureen being sold from the field.

Mr Bright did his dissertation on potato storage while at Harper Adams University. Visits to two stores built by Norfolk-based Crop Systems helped him decide they were the company to develop and construct his own on-farm potato store.

“We visited two other stores that Crop Systems had built,” explains Mr Bright. “What impressed us most was the quali-

ty of the build and equipment. Everything was correct – right down to the fine details.”

Bulk storage The family decided to build a TaperStor – a bulk store featuring tapering tunnels and ducts which ensure even air-flow and pressure right across the building. Mr Bright checked the airflow with a flow meter.

The store’s design includes a gap between the outer concrete wall and the store’s insulated panels. This gap is managed

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APRIL 2021 • MIDLAND FARMER 19

Potatoes

“

Everything was correct – right down to the fine details

continued from p19 the store during the very wet autumn of 2019. But the store still managed to dry and cure them effectively. The last potatoes were loaded out of the store in July 2020 – and the fry quality was still excellent.

Excellent airflow “We had to blow the potatoes hard to dry them, but the humidification system ensured they stored well,” says Mr Bright. “This year has been much easier. We haven’t had to use the fans nearly as much.

“The fridge and the airflow are both excellent. We only ever have a temperature difference of 0.2-0.3ºC from one end of the store to the other. The humidifier provides free extra cooling and helps maintain the quality of the crop while it is in storage.”

The store brought the crop down to 8ºC efficiently in the autumn. It later reduced that to 7.5ºC for longer term storage.

Mr Bright credits

the SmartStor controller for his crop quality. It offers the ability to fix a different set point for every day during the process, enabling him to programme temperature reduction accurately.

The family decided to avoid CIPC as a sprouting suppressant because – although it was allowed in the first winter – it could remain in concrete for up to 20 years, and they didn’t want to contaminate subsequent crops.

Viable option “The advice we received from merchants and from Crop Systems was to switch to ethylene as this was the only viable option at the time,” says Mr Bright. “We effectively got ahead of the law change.”

This meant the farm business was a year ahead of everyone else in coping with lfie after BIPC. “The 2020 crop was loaded into the store in a couple of weeks and looks fantastic. We are confident that we will be able to store it until July.”

The SmartStor adds an extra level of confidence and peace of mind, says Mr Bright. “Any one of us can check the store whenever we want to and instantly see what is happening. We also receive regular updates.”

Marketing campaign for baked potatoes A six-week marketing campaign is highlighting the versatility and adaptability of baked potatoes to consumers.

The New Packed Lunch initiative from AHDB Potatoes across social media is directing consumers to the Love Potatoes website.

The website includes tips for preparing the jacket potatoes with topping suggestions. AHDB Potatoes strategy director Rob Clayton said it was aimed at people who were working from home during lockdown and looking for good value and nutritious meals.

Caterers are rallying behind the campaign, with chefs and colleges planning their own activity in support of AHDB, which will be shared across their social platforms.

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Potatoes

How to get best results against potato cyst nematode

E

xperts have outlined the best way to use the last remaining granular nematicide against potato cyst nematode (PCN) – the crop’s most damaging soil pest.

The government’s refusal to reauthorise oxamyl leaves Nemathorin as the only remaining granular control method. Growers switching to the product should follow guidelines for best results, says Syngenta technical manager Michael Tait.

The same equipment can be used for the application of granules – but must be fitted with Nemathorin specific rotors or cartridges and calibrated to accurately deliver the 30kg/ha application rate for PCN. “Nemathorin cannot be applied infurrow,” says Mr Tait. Instead, granules should be incorporated evenly to

a depth of 15cm in the soil profile during seedbed preparation, immediately prior to planting.

Consistent depth Incorporation to a consistent depth across all soil types and conditions is important, because Nemathorin is relatively immobile in the soil profile – which helps achieve good levels of control.

“If field conditions change, check the incorporation depth and adjust accordingly,” says Mr Tait.

Growers and agronomists must not desiccate or harvest crops for at least 17 weeks (119 days) after application.

A harvest interval calculator on the Syngenta website means growers can check the earliest potential desiccation

Special cartridges accurately deliver the correct application rate

or lifting date.

When ccurately incorporated into the soil, Nemathorin has consistently shown higher yields through greater PCN control compared to fluopyram liquid nematicide or a combination of liquid and reduced rate granular product.

Higher yields UK crop trials on a commercial Suffolk farm showed a 10% higher yield

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22 MIDLAND FARMER • APRIL 2021

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SPot Farm trial examines PCN resistance

from Nemathorin – some 56 t/ha – compared to fluopyram applied in furrow.

Other trials have confirmed higher yields and improved marketable tuber size Effective control of PCN with an integrated approach to crop management is advocated wherever populations are identified by soil sampling.

Managing even low egg counts can help to protect yields of the growing crop, says Mr Tait.

Above left: Field trials have confirmed higher marketable yields, says Michael Tait Above right: Granules should be incorporated evenly during seedbed preparation

Resistance and tolerance to potato cyst nematode will be examined in one of five trials confirmed for the eastern region’s Strategic Potato (SPot) Farm this season.

The trial will take place at James Foskett Farms, near Woodbridge, Suffolk. It is 18 months into a six-year SPot Farm programme.

The farm covers 900ha in the Deben Valley. It includes 230ha of organic cropping and a 5,150t capacity storage unit.

Soils are light, free-draining irrigated Grade 4 sandy loam, while a coastal climate allows for early season production.

Other trials at the SPot Farm will study companion crops and the benefit of adding oils; controlling wireworm without Mocap; spore trapping to combat late blight; and minimising the impact of early crops on soil compaction.

Nemathorin minimises the multiplication and build-up of pest numbers, reducing the damage caused by wireworm, along with the free-living nematodes responsible for the transmission of spraing.

“Accurate application of Nemathorin following the protocols of the Nematicide Stewardship Programme will help assure yields are protected in the growing crop and sustainable management of PCN in the long-term.”

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Potatoes

Seed potato exporters take action after Brexit devastates business

T

he UK and Brussels are being urged to resolve their differences on seed potato exports – so shipments can resume to and from the European Union.

The EU has refused to accept UK shipments of seed potatoes since January – although EU shipments to the UK can continue until June. Brussels has rejected an equivalence request which would enable full trade to resume in both directions.

Each year, some 30,000t of UK seed potatoes worth some £13m are exported to the EU. The potential loss of that market could see British growers lose a significant part of their income – with some farms under threat.

‘Future at stake’ The Pre Basic Growers Association, which represents UK seed potato growers, wants a ban on imports of seed potatoes from the EU by 1 July unless reciprocal trading arrangements are agreed.

Some 28,000t of EU seed potatoes are imported into the UK annually. Association member and UK seed potato exporter Andrew Skea, of breeders Skea Organics, said UK seed production could offset any shortfall.

“Our export markets have been built up over many years,” said Mr Skea. “Growers face a significant loss of business which would be very difficult to retrieve – for some the future of their businesses is at stake.”

The association comprises more than 40 mainly Scottish seed potato growers who produce early generations of high grade seed potatoes. This pre-basic seed underpins the UK’s seed potato industry.

Global success for UK seed potatoes UK seed potatoes are exported to more than 50 countries worldwide – but shipments to the EU are still significant.

Egypt and Morocco still remain the largest buyers, importing a combined 75,000 tonnes in 2018, according to the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board. More recent successes have seen GB seed approved in China and Kenya.

China is the world’s largest potato consumer, with a high demand for chips and crisps. The AHDB says the UK has an opportunity to trade 100,000 tonnes of seed potato varieties used to make these processed products.

Access to the Kenyan market was granted after two seasons of trials and performance assessments. Potatoes are Kenya’s second most important food crop after maize, with some 2.5m tonnes grown annually.

Many of the EU seed potatoes imported into the UK are produced by Dutch owned Agrico UK. New varieties with enhanced properties tend to originate from Dutch seed before they are multiplied in the UK. Agrico UK is a wholly owned subsidiary of Agrico Holland, a farmerowned cooperative of some 800 growers. It is a specialist developer and supplier of high grade seed potatoes for pre-packers, processors and seed merchants.

Any shortfall in imports from the EU could be offset by UK production, says grower Andrew Skea

Defra secretary George Eustice has pledged to continuing raise the issue with the EU to ensure that full trade resumes as soon as possible.

But Brussels maintains that the UK is not ‘dynamically aligned’ with the EU so equivalence cannot be granted.

Rapid resolution needed Meanwhile, the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board says seed potato growers need the situation to be rapid resolved. Ideally, this would see the UK gain third country listed status for seed potatoes.

AHDB head of potato export development Patrick Hughes said: “It is now likely that dialogue through official channels will run on for several months, leading to the remaining exports destined for the EU not reaching their destination in time for planting.

“

Loss of business would be very difficult to retrieve

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www.haith.co.uk 05/06/2020 10:17 APRIL 2021 • MIDLAND FARMER 25

Potatoes Advertiser’s announcement

A new smell in the farmyard Biox-M is a natural sprout inhibitor applied in store to potatoes destined for the fresh andprocessing markets.

Farmyards are full of smells and odours, some attractive, some less so.

This year finds a new smell in the farmyard – spearmint. Yes, the mint that you might put on your new potatoes in May – and the same spearmint that flavours toothpaste and chewing gum.

Why am I smelling mint in the farmyard?

In 2019, a decision was taken to withdraw approval for chlorpropham/CIPC, used for years to prevent potatoes sprouting in store. As a result, potato growers have looked for alternatives to manage the risk of sprouting – and ensure potatoes can be supplied in prime condition to customers all year round.

One option, used by some British growers since 2012, is spearmint oil, sold as Biox-M and in widespread use in the food industry. Naturally occurring spearmint, from which the oil is steam-distilled, is applied as a hot fog into potato stores. The fog swiftly becomes a vapour, preventing the development of potato sprouts.

Spearmint oil vapour is volatile, which is im-

portant to deliver the product evenly through the potato store. It is essential to ensure the vapour remains in the store to deliver optimum efficacy.

For many growers and store keepers, the 2020 crop is the first to which BioxM has been applied. This has required a steep learning curve to get the best from an unfamiliar product.

However much care is taken by the store manager though, small amounts of spearmint oil vapour will leak from most stores over time, particularly when ambient air is introduced to the store as part of normal store management of the crop, or in very windy conditions.

This release of small quantities of spearmint oil vapour may be noticed in the vicinity of potato stores in the days following treatment. Spearmint oil is not persistent in the fabric of buildings and boxes used for potato storage, nor in the wider environment.

It is an essential oil. Spearmint oil is widely used in familiar domestic food products. However, regular use in potato stores is comparatively new, and the faint odour of spearmint is now to be found in an unfamiliar context.

Metaldehyde guidelines must be followed, growers told Potato growers using metaldehyde slug pellets this spring are being reminded to follow stewardship guidelines and keep the active ingredient out of watercourses.

The reminder comes after water companies reported the worst autumn for the detection of metaldehyde in watercourses since 2017.

A wet autumn made drinking water catchments particularly vulnerable.

Metaldehyde pellets are being phased out because of environmental concerns. Defra says alternative pesticides containing ferric phosphate provide effective control without the same risks to water and wildlife.

Water companies reported 168 cases of metaldehyde limits being exceeded in abstracted water last autumn. For one company, this meant shutting 14 abstraction facilities for 127 days when they should be filling reservoirs ready for the summer.

t: 01302 771881 e: info@wrootwater.com

Dealing with Dirty Water WrootWater Dirty Water Filtration & K-Line Irrigation System After many years trying to find a solution for dirty water we have found a cost effective solution, not only is the system simple it also has a low power requirement.

This new system comes with a low capital cost, and with ease of use it suits all types of terrain. It also allows slow application rates to match ground infiltration.The

system is modular so it is also easy to expand.

The system operates at 2-4 bar pressure using a 4mm-6mm Size Sprinkler Nozzle this gives an output of 0.8 to 1.1 m3 per hour per sprinkler with a diameter of 2024mt therefore applying 3-4mm per hour.

The system is designed for clean or dirty water with large solids being removed by the WrootWater Super Simple Filter, removing all particles above 2mm, it is also self-cleaning so relatively low maintenance and trouble free.

The Sprinkler we use to spread the water after the filter is the famous K-Line system from New Zealand.

This is a modular sprinkler system used mainly for irrigating grass as it is easy to manage and is economical with very few moving parts so there is very little to go wrong.We think we now have the winning system that is both economical and easy to use.

We are now also offering the larger K-line Pods with Sprinklers to handle larger solids as these come with nozzles up to 12mm in diameter.

w w w . w root w ate r. c o m Wrootwater_1/2page_advertorial.indd 1

26 MIDLAND FARMER • APRIL 2021

26/03/2021 14:40

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Call 01789 491 200 APRIL 2021 • MIDLAND FARMER 27

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Soya values have increased rapidly in recent weeks and for harvest 2021 we are now projecting our highest ever prices at £450-£500/tonne.

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Durable digestate and slurry storage lagoons Floating covers eligible under Farming Ammonia Reduction Grant Scheme (AQ30) Jones McGirr & Co Ltd Fairyhill Farm, 73 Dooish Road, Dromore, Co Tyrone BT78 3BA Tel: 02882 897744 Mob: 07974 682088 Email: jonesmcgirr1@btinternet.com

Grass & Forage Beef and dairy producers are being advised to protect the performance of total mixed rations as the weather becomes warmer.

“Spoilage can be a real risk in the spring and summer months due to higher temperatures,” warns Jacob Lakin from Azelis Animal Nutrition. With feed prices escalating, it is important that cows gain full value from rations, he adds.

“Damaging micro-organisms can significantly reduce the palatability of the TMR and, if this happens, intakes can quickly drop.

Using an effective TMR preserva-

Photo credit: Agriphoto

Protect ration performance as temperatures rise

Cattle are sensitive to spoilage as temperatures rise

tive will help keep the ration fresh and prevent the feed becoming unpalatable.”

As ambient temperatures

rise, yeasts and moulds in forages and other TMR feed products grow more quickly when exposed to oxygen. This spoilage reduces

nutrient value and adversely affects palatability.

Spoilage and reduced palatability can significantly depress livestock performance, production and health. Milk yield and solids may be reduced, particularly when cows are turned out onto lush spring grass, says Mr Lakin.

Adding organic acid blends to the TMR can inhibit growth of moulds and yeasts. This helps to offset any potential unwanted drop in intake and ensure cows extract full nutritional value and performance from the ration.

How better fertiliser timings boost first-cut silage yields • Short intervals bring 30% benefit • Blueprint maximises grass quality • Improved efficiency on top farms

F

irst-cut silage yields can be increased by nearly 30% simply by applying the first nitrogen of the season as two splits in relatively short succession, suggest trials.

The type of nitrogen source – including sulphur and using true granular compounds rather than blends – can also boost Nitrogen fertiliser Use Efficiency (NfUE), according to findings from CF Fertiliser.

“It has to be the focal point for grassland producers moving forward,” says the company’s Mark Garrett (pictured).

“Maximising NfUE ensures as much vital nitrogen goes into plants to stimulate growth – rather than leaving the system where it could cause environmental concerns and economic loss to the farmer.”

The recommendations on application timings are the culmination of four years work. As well as timings, the study examined various intervals between splits to see if these had any major affect on efficiency.

Fertiliser Manual RB209 says farmers should consider split applications if applying more than 80kg N/ha for first-

“

Split applications reduce the risk of nitrogen losses

cut silage. Doing so reduces the chance of losing nitrogen when a single large application is made.

“The traditional RB209 view is that this second application should be made four weeks after the first one and this is something we have followed in the trials,” says Mr Garrett.

“But whenever we have carried this out, we have seen a significant drop off in yield of first cut silage compared to when all the nitrogen is applied as a single application.”

The trial examined the effects of applying 120kg N/ha as a single application; the same amount but with 80kg applied first followed by 40kg four weeks later; and the same split but with only one week between applications.

When cut eight weeks after the first application, the all-in-one approach delivered a yield of 6.83t/ha DM, the four-week interval produced 6.10t/ha and the one week interval yielded 7.86t/ha.

Splitting applications with a four week gap reduced yields gave the lowest yield, says Mr Garrett. But the same split with one week between applications produced 29% more than the four week interval and

Splitting fertiliser applications means more high-quality silage

15% more than the single application.

“The results suggest that you would be far better off applying your first cut nitrogen as two splits with one week between them than either as a single application or two splits with four weeks interval.

“What is really impressive is that simply applying the second application at one week rather than the traditional four weeks added 1.76t/ha DM to first cut yields for the same overall amount of nitrogen applied.”

APRIL 2021 • MIDLAND FARMER 29

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Grass & Forage

Sheep were fed a diet which included 200g of willow leaves

Willow leaves ‘reduce emissions from sheep’ Feeding willow leaves to sheep could reduce greenhouse gas emissions, suggests research by the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust.

The study involved four groups of six Aberfield-cross lambs. Half were fed 200g each of goat willow leaves daily. Urine tests subsequently confirmed significant reductions in both nitrous oxide and carbon dioxide.

Part-funded by the Woodland Trust, the work also found lower ammonia emissions from willowfed lambs. Professor Chris Stoate said the results were a prelimi-

nary but exciting finding which warranted further investigation.

Defra recently confirmed that agroforestry is eligible for support through the Basic Payment Scheme – including trees planted at wide spacings and intercropped with a cereal or bio-energy crop; and trees on grassland with livestock.

The Committee on Climate Change estimates that agroforestry could result in carbon emissions savings of 5.9 Mt of carbon dioxide per year by 2050, about 13% of total current emissions from the agriculture sector.

LG MONARCH For more information, download our brochure: lgseeds.co.uk/monarch

Test grass throughout the season for high-quality silage Farmers are being encouraged to test grass before cutting it to determine the best time for quality silage production.

Incremental improvements in silage quality make a considerable difference to feeding efficiency and production margins. But some farmers are missing out on the opportunity to make the best silage possible.

Lientjie Colahan of Lallemand Animal Nutrition (pictured), believes this is often due to overlooking the planning part of the process, with

producers often timing silage by calendar date rather than grass quality.

“Pre-cut grass testing helps determine when the crop is at the optimal point for cutting to achieve quality forage with the best nutritional value,” says Ms Colahan.

“One of the most important things to observe in pre-cut testing results is the neutral detergent fibre (NDF) content. This is the main gauge of plant maturity, giving the best indication of when grass is ready to cut.”

LG MONARCH Grass seed mixtures that are a cut and a bite above the rest. @LGSeedsUK lgseeds.co.uk/monarch Tel: 01472 371471 lgseeds.co.uk enquiries@limagrain.co.uk

APRIL 2021 • MIDLAND FARMER 31

Grass & Forage

Multi-cut silage helps dairy farms weather the effects of drought

Good preservation and consolidation remain key, says Jason Short

• More silage clamped early in season • Less concern over bought feed price • Growers prepared for any eventuality

M

ulti-cut silage could put dairy farms in a stronger position to withstand the effects of drought on reducing grass growth, suggests a survey.

The poll of more than 100 dairy farmers compared the impact of last year’s dry spring and summer on grass silage production. Some 55% of those questioned were taking up to three cuts a year, with 45% using a multi-cut system to take at least four cuts.

Conducted by Ecosyl, the survey set out to test the theory that an earlier start date to silaging with a mul-

ti-cut system means more silage has already been clamped if the weather turns dry later on.

Results revealed that by the end of May 2020, those making multi-cut had indeed made better progress. All had taken at least one cut, with 34% having taken two cuts, and 9% having taken more than two.

This high number of cuts compared with 10% of the conventional silage makers who had yet to start cutting at all by that date. Only 3% had taken two cuts and none had progressed any further.

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32 MIDLAND FARMER • APRIL 2021

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GRASS SEED MIXTURE For any further help & advice, please call the office 01722 744494 or email info@brightmaize.com Bright Maize grass mixtures have been especially formulated with the latest NIAB listed grasses.

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made them think more about making multi-cut, yet only 2% of multi-cutters said they could definitely envisage switching back the other way.

“All this suggests multi-cutters were more comfortable with their silage progress when the drought hit last season,” said Mr Short. There was also greater awareness among multi-cutters of methods for maximising silage quantity and quality

All bases covered Although rain eventually returned in time for grass growth to resume in the latter part of last summer, Mr Short said such a turnaround could not be

Less anxiety Ecosyl silage expert Jason Short said: “There also appeared less anxiety about silage quantity among the multi-cut group – with 11% reporting they had made more silage than normal by the end of May, versus only 5% saying this in the conventional group.”

In addition, some 64% of conventional makers expressed concern about the amount of silage they had made by then, suggesting it was not enough. This compared with only 57% of the multi-cut group.

“There was more widespread concern about possible tighter availability or higher prices for bought-in feeds last winter among conventional silage makers, with 78% expressing concern, versus only 57% in the multi-cut group.”

Some 22% of conventional silage makers said recent dry seasons had

“

Farmers were less anxious about silage quality

guaranteed in every dry season. This meant growers should be prepared for any eventuality.

A higher proportion of multi-cut farmers said they were paying more attention to wilting times to reduce infield losses; applying an additive to preserve more dry matter; and improving clamp consolidation, sealing or weighting to reduce losses.

“Attention to detail makes a lot of sense, because recent research by our scientists showed that although multicut grass delivered a higher yield over a season than taking three cuts, and was higher in quality, it did benefit from looking after.”

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12/03/2021 17:07 APRIL 2021 • MIDLAND FARMER 33

An opportunity for top pig finishers to increase their returns Call Liz Speller 07956 881389

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finishers to increase their returns An opportunity for top pig finishers to increase their returns Rattlerow Farms is looking for exceptional contract finishers to grow Rattlerow breedingFarms stock is looking for exceptional

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Operating for over 65 years, Rattlerow Farms is one of the UK’s largest independent pig breeding companies. As a result of expansion, we are looking to take on additional gilt growout sites for breeding stock. We are looking for exceptional contract pig finishers who would like a new challenge.

Due to the additional skill required to rear breeding stock, our contract gilt growouts can earn significantly better returns compared with standard contract finishing. If you are interested in joining an expanding company please give us a call to hear about what opportunities we are offering.

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Contact us on 01379 384304 or 07799 552028 34 MIDLAND FARMER • APRIL 2021

Livestock Guaranteed price provides certainty for beef farmers • Minimum price contract for beef • Risk-free way to trade livestock • Worth £130m over seven years

L

ivestock producers are being offered a guaranteed minimum price for cattle following the UK launch of the world’s first smart, data-driven beef contract.

Unveiled by livestock management company Breedr, the long-term contract sets a secure price 24 months ahead. Farmers get the benefit if prices rise in the meantime – but there is no penalty if the price falls.

Breedr says the contract will give producers confidence to invest – and help to improve efficiencies throughout the supply chain. It says this will

“

It gives farmers peace of mind to build their businesses

improve the consistency and quality of the end product, while reducing the sector’s carbon footprint.

Trading platform The company has launched a risk-free way to buy and sell livestock, based on lifetime animal data and weights. The Breedr live trading platform means producers can buy and sell through the free app with certainty.

A price guarantee provides certainty in case there is any differential in the weight of weaned calves and stores between farms. Sellers are also ensured payment within 72 hours of collection.

Trades will remain commission-free until later this year.

“As beef producers ourselves, we know how tricky it is to plan ahead with confidence – one batch of bad Advance payments can help smooth cash flow, says Ian Wheal

calves can ruin a farm, as can a downturn in the beef market,” says Breedr founder Ian Wheal.

“But by making better use of data we can buy and sell with transparency, predict growth rates, and know that we’re supplying the processor with what they want – ensuring a secure end market and price.”

Price uplift The contract is worth more than £130m to British beef producers over the next seven years, says Breedr. It offers a 24-month minimum price for any cattle with lifetime data, with producers receiving a proportion of any uplift in price above that.

Rearers can opt to be paid per kilogramme of growth – eliminating the need for capital outlay on youngstock.

Advanced payments are available to smooth cash flow and reduce uncertainty, says Mr Wheal.

“British agriculture is innovating to meet UK and global needs. Being able to plan ahead with certainty finally gives farmers the peace of mind they need to invest and build profitable businesses.”

Farmers using the free app are finishing animals five months earlier than the industry average, with 24% more carcases reaching target specification. Farmers using Breedr are saving 1.8t/head in feed and reducing their carbon footprint by 20%.

Productivity boost AHDB Beef and Lamb chairman Adam Quinney says the innovation is a boost for farm productivity. “We are very supportive of technology that is helping bring certainty, and collaboration between farmer groups in the supply chain.”

The network now has over 2,000 members and 120,000 registered animals across the UK. Mr Wheal says many users are joining forces to create integrated supply chains to further improve efficiencies.

By collating data on genetics, growth rates, health, and carcass grades, producers can identify the most productive breeding lines and management methods, optimising productivity throughout the supply chain.

Mr Wheal says: “This is a true community of forward-thinking farmers, who are sharing their own top tips and forming robust business partnerships.

Together, farmers have the power to drive this positive change.”

APRIL 2021 • MIDLAND FARMER 35

Midland April 2021

Machinery

• Videos highlight unique features on latest Fastrac – • New 9R Series tractors are ‘stronger and smarter’

see page 38

Tyre makers ramp up offers to woo farmers • Better products, longer warranties • More confidence in reliability • Range has more value for money

M

ajor tyre manufacturers are launching new offers to farmers to secure a wider share of the lucrative agricultural market.

Bridgestone has doubled the warranty kength of its range of AG radial drive products to 10 years. It means products such as the VX-Tractor and the VT-Tractor will be accompanied by the extended cover.

Previously, it was from the date of manufacture and for five years, but this has been changed to start from the date the farmer purchases the tyre, meaning farmers will benefit for the full 10 years of ownership.

Bridgestone technical manager Gary Powell said the move was made possible by advances in production technology and new design features – which showed the manufacturer’s confidence in its tyre reliability.

“All this is at no extra cost to the farmer,” he said.

Better productivity Competitor Kleber has launched a new generation of its Topker agricultural tyre range – with improved flexion technology. It says the Kleber Topker IF has better grip, comfort and productivity for 200hp+ tractors.

The new range – comprising five front sizes and six rear sizes – provides farmers and agricultural contractors with a high-quality IF tyre at a great value-for-money price, says Kleber’s customer support manager Gordon Brookes.

Tyres with an IF rating benefit from a sidewall structure which is more flexible – allowing operators to carry more load at the same pressure, or to 36 MIDLAND FARMER • APRIL 2021

Better flexion helps tyres return to their original shape.

run the same load at a lower pressure when compared to standard tyres of the same size.

Meanwhile, all new Fendt 200 and 300 series tractors are now available with Continental TractorMaster tyres.

The tyres feature N.Flex Technology – a heat-treated nylon that helps the rubber return to its original shape after impact and heavy use.

Better productivity Continental agricultural tyre specialist Richard Hutchins says the partnership between the two German manufacturers is another boost to the investment in new technology at the company’s production facility in Lousado, Portugal.

“The bead is as important as the rubber and nylon in a tyre. Our research showed that tyres with a single wire bead can operate at up to 3psi lower. In field operations this increases the footprint area which reduces soil compaction.”

A further technological development is in the wire, or ‘bead’, that helps the tyre hold the rim of the wheel.

Some agricultural tyres use as many as ten individual wires to create one bead which can cause weaknesses at the joins.

The Continental bead is made of a single wire construction wrapped around the circumference of the tyre up to one hundred times creating an

“

The bead is as important as the rubber and nylon

agricultural tyre that holds the rim, even at very low pressure.

Fendt UK marketing manager Charlotte Ellis said: “Tyres are an extremely important part of any tractor and the new technology in Continental’s TractorMaster tyres shows how research and development is helping to drive agricultural efficiencies.”

Väderstad produces 1000th Tempo L drill Swedish machinery manufacturer Väderstad has passed the milestone of producing its 1000th Tempo L high precision planter.

Launched in 2017, the Tempo L hit made global headlines when it set a world drilling record in Hungary the same year – planting 502ha of maize in 24 hours at a speed of more than 12.5mph.

Väderstad says the company’s patented PowerShoot technology enabled the Tempo to deliver unparalleled precision – both in terms of the distance between each seed and uniform planting depth.

“There were minimal deviations in planting depth precision, doubles and skips,” says Mattias Hovnert, the company’s senior vice president for global sales and marketing. “The Tempo L has definitely pushed the limits regarding planting, capacity and precision.”

In total, Väderstad produces some 5500 machines annually. Currently available with 8-24 row units, a new Tempo L 32 goes into production from June 2021.

It will be the biggest Tempo yet with 32 row units and a 12m operating width.

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Videos highlight unique features on latest Fastrac Farmers and contractors wanting to find out about JCB’s Fastrac 4000 highspeed tractor – including its four-wheel steering system – can now watch a series of special videos.

The videos are informative but brief and to the point. They give an overview of the tractor’s features – and how the touch-screen in the cab can be used to achieve optimum settings for different tasks and applications.

JCB Agriculture managing director John Smith said: “It would take a very long video to explain all the many features of the Fastrac so instead there are

14 short recordings on specific topics.”

Mr Smith says there is no substitute for the detailed operator’s manual or talking to a Fastrac sales engineer, whose main role is to demonstrate and install new machines.

But he adds: “The videos are easily accessible on an office computer or a mobile device out in the field to support inexperienced and seasonal operators, or to provide a quick reminder on functions that a regular operator may not have used for a while.”

To watch the videos, visit the JCB Agriculture page on YouTube.

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New 9R Series tractors are ‘stronger and smarter’ John Deere’s new 9R Series tractor range features machines that are stronger, more efficient and more intelligent, says the manufacturer.

The range is headed by the flagship 9R 640 and 9RX 640 models. All use the same new and highly fuel-efficient 13.6-litre John Deere engine as the X9 combine – except for the 640hp models which remain powered by a 15-litre Cummins engine.

The six-cylinder John Deere engine with its HPCR fuel injection system is more efficient and quieter too. To transfer engine power to the ground, all models offer additional ballasting that allow a gross weight of 30.4t.

The StarFire 6000 receiver is integrated into the cab roof as standard. So too is the 4600 CommandCenter display, full AEF Isobus compatibility and AutoTrac activation.

Warwickshire farm brings global markets into the farm office with CRM AgriCommodities Orga Products farm manager Frans Hamman finds that working with independent grain market advisors CRM AgriCommodities helps them make more sense of both the global and local markets – saving time and hitting a higher profit margin through making more confident marketing decisions at more strategic times, whilst managing risks appropriately.

Following a successful two-year working relationship with CRM AgriCommodities, Frans says: “We have always marketed our grain ourselves rather than in the pool systems. We use CRM Agri and their farmer focused platform Graintab to make more sense of the markets; their completely independent, well researched opinions and advice makes it an easier task than in the past and saves a lot of time researching world markets. Ultimately, we have total confidence following their advice, knowing that they are independent and close to the market.

“For Orga Products, the value in working with CRM AgriCommodities comes in seeing increased profitability from our pricing strategies, being able to make informed decisions based on the world market from analysis that is usually well ahead of any other publication.”

Farm manager, Frans Hamman (photo credit Oli Lees Photography)

Orga Products is a family owned 525ha enterprise, comprising 465ha arable cropping (winter wheat, rye, OSR, spring barley) and 60ha of salads and herbs. Managed by Frans, the business is owned

by Richard Kerby, who has been a tenant on the Alscot Estate, Warwickshire for over 20 years. With one other full- time member of staff, Dave Tomes, and two seasonal staff for harvest, saving time is a priority for Frans, reducing time in the farm office. Director Richard has also attended one of CRM AgriCommodities’ grain marketing courses to better understand the different market influences and be even more confident in selling decisions.

Delivering accurate and timely analysis is at the heart of CRM AgriCommodities’ commitment to their members, simplifying and making the global markets more transparent. To focus on delivering 100% independent and unbiased insights, CRM AgriCommodities do not trade for themselves, this is a rare attribute within domestic grain markets.

“Most definitely the goal is to get the most for me as farmer without having to consider any other influences; that is why working with James and his team, who are completely independent, is crucial to our working relationship,” explains Frans.

CRM AgriCommodities founder, James Bolesworth, says: “Through a range of tools and an experienced team we ensure that we suit differing working preferences, we are able to empower each and every one of our members to make decisions with confidence, and the results are clear to see with Orga Products, it is a pleasure to work with a business that realises the difference grain marketing makes to their bottom line and values the advice we give.”

“Last year we launched our Graintab platform, which makes it even easier for our members to access our professional research and consultancy in a transparent and straightforward way, whilst our grain marketing courses, both online and in person, delve deeper into the markets.” James continues: “The goal is for our members to be able to navigate the markets confidently, making strategic selling decisions to manage market volatility and improve their profit margin; our main advantage is our independence, this allows us to focus on what is best for our clients.”

Grain market disruptors, CRM Agri, offer market analysis, grain marketing advisory services, online Graintab platform, training academy and joint marketing groups for hundreds of farmers, advisors, consumers and multinationals throughout the UK, Europe and the Black Sea.

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Technology New fund to support innovation and adoption of agri-technology to transform business performance.

Belinda Clarke, director of AgriTechE, said: “The proposed new Farming Investment Fund will – we hope – help de-risk the investment in new technologies which we see is often a barrier to uptake by farmers.”

Ease of access to the fund would be key to its success, said Dr Clarke. She added: “We hope the outcomes will be assessed by meaningful metrics which are relevant to farmers, as well as relatively simple to capture.”

Eligible investment Types of eligible investments could include on-farm water storage infrastructure; robotic or automated technology to improve animal health and welfare; and equipment for the processing of agricultural products.

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A

government pledge to encourage the adoption of new farming technology by growers and livestock producers has been welcomed by industry leaders.

The Farming Investment Fund will open later this year. It follows the end of the Countryside Productivity Small Grants scheme, which part-funded purchases of farm equipment. That scheme closed in January.

Defra said the investment fund would continue to ensure support remained available for adoption of innovation and productivity improvements.

In this respect, the fund has similar objectives to the scheme it replaces.

“The fund will provide targeted support to businesses so that they can invest in equipment, technology, and infrastructure that will improve their productivity and deliver environmental and other public benefits,” said Defra.

There will be two levels of the Farming Investment Fund: • Farming Equipment and Technology Fund – which will offer small grants to contribute towards the purchase of a list of specified items • Farming Transformation Fund – which will provide larger grants towards the cost of more substantial investments in equipment, technology or infrastructure, with the potential

The scheme must be easy to access, says Belinda Clarke, of Agri-TechE

Previous schemes have helped fund livestock handling systems

Funding will be in addition to increased investment in farmer-led research and development projects to trial and demonstrate the viability of new and existing technologies.

These technologies will be selected to address immediate on-farm productivity challenges. They will also seek to address ways that agriculture can meet targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and achieve net zero.

Example projects could include the trialling new feed additives or demonstrating the integration of autonomous farm machinery.

Sharing weather data means better decisions More farmers are sharing weather data so they can improve decisions when it comes to crop management.

Farmers, agronomists and buying groups have embraced data collaboration – recognising its value in day-to-day farm management and the effective use of crop protection products, according to agri-weather pioneers Sencrop.

The French agri-tech startup has activated 250 private weather networks across Eu-

40 MIDLAND FARMER • APRIL 2021

rope – with 25 of those networks within the UK – connecting over 9,000 on-farm stations from its total of 15,000.

“During 2020 we doubled the number of ag weather stations in the UK,” says Sencrop UK market co-ordinator Fleur van Luijk. “A quarter of our stations are connected collaboratively within a private network, enabling access to data from other stations.”

Users – whether farmers, advisers, contractors, managers or

anyone else with authorisation – can retrieve all weather data in a secure, ultra-localised manner using a smartphone app or a standard browser.

Armed with this information, farmers can better anticipate weather or disease risks, allocate daily tasks to make the most of appropriate weather windows and ensure best practice when using crop protection products.

Agronomists are using shared data to improve their

recommendations to customers.

Processors and buyers are using it to develop harvest strategies that optimise harvest windows, while maintaining supply volumes.

Nearly one in 10 of the networks include more than 100 farmers or more than 100 stations – with customers configuring networks to suit their own needs. Over half the networks have more than 10 stations, ranging from a few square miles upwards.

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Technology

Robot progress ‘stymied by red tape’

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n over zealous approach to regulation is hampering the commercialisation of crop robots across Europe, UK researchers have told German scientists.

The regulation of crop robots was highlighted during an online presentation by James Lowenberg-DeBoer, holder of the Elizabeth Creak Chair in agri-tech applied economics at Harper Adams University.

The use of crop robots has not yet been fully realised – and the right regulatory environment needed to maximise their effect will need careful consideration, he said.

The presentation – to members of the Bavarian State Research Centre for Agriculture – drew on work completed by Harper Adams academics alongside colleagues in the UK, Europe and the USA.

Hands-free farm Agricultural robots face similar regulatory challenges to driverless cars. The technology is more advanced than the legal framework they operate within – posing challenges for lawmakers as

well as regulators.

Professor Lowenberg-DeBoer used the Harper Adams Hands Free Farm model – which uses robots to grow crops without human intervention – to estimate the impact of regulation on the sector.

“Crop robots have the potential to transform UK agriculture and create entrepreneurial opportunities on small and medium sized farms,” he said. “But it needs the right kind of regulation to foster the development and

use of the technology.”

Professor Lowenberg-DeBoer is in the process of preparing the research he presented upon for publication. The session was viewed by researchers and professionals from across Europe.

The British Standards Institute is starting the process of creating a code of practice for autonomous crop equipment in the UK based on some of the findings presented during the session.

This should make it easier to commercialise agricultural robots.

Agri-robots have big potential – if the regulatory framework is right

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How to PLAN for success Housing delivery is firmly on the Government’s agenda and this controversial topic is rarely out of the headlines of both national and local news, but who really decides where these houses will go?

Local Plans vs Neighbourhood Plans The Government sets the housing target for each authority area, however the responsibility is passed to the Local Planning Authorities to prepare a Local Plan which determines where those houses will go. Every area in England and Wales is obligated to have an up to date Local Plan in place and this must be reviewed every five years.

Councils can choose to identify specific sites or allocate a number of homes to a specific village or town. Local Plans will also include policies which are used to manage the character and appearance of development.

These will include policies for the biodiversity improvements, affordable housing, the size of homes to be built as well as specific energy and design requirements. All of which will influence the overall number, type and appearance of the homes which are built. Whilst Local Plans are evidence based documents, they are subject to consultation with local stakeholders which feeds into their drafting.

Local Plans are not the only Plan which will determine where housing will go or what it will look like; introduced through the Localism Act 2011, Neighbourhood Plans became part of the wider Local Plan. These Plans were introduced to allow communities to have more influence and control over their area to ensure they get the right type of development for their neighbourhood. Whilst these Plans cannot be used to block development identified in the Local Plan, they are an extremely powerful tool when it comes to determining where development will go and potentially what it will look like.

These Plans identify a vision for the area and set objectives for the next 15 to 20 years. These are produced by an authorised local community organisation such as a Parish or Town Council but can also be a separate Neighbourhood Plan Group. There is not the same requirement for these to be regularly updated, however they must be in general conformity with the adopted Local Plan and are therefore often subject to review following the adoption of a new Local Plan.

Where a Local Plan seeks to allocate a housing figure to a settlement, a Neighbourhood Plan has the ability to identify where those houses will be built. It is important to note that these Plans can also protect land from development which is considered to be of particular importance to local communities. Local Green Space can be land which holds a particular local significance of which the definition is quite wide. However a site’s recreational value is a common justification, its beauty, historic significance, tranquillity or richness of its wildlife are also potential valid reasons to seek its designation. It is important to note that for a site to qualify as a Local Green Space it does not require to be open to the public or have permission from the landowner to be allocated. Once designated the land has a similar level of protection as Green Belt.

Who decides?

Neighbourhood Plans and Local Plans are both part of the overall Development Plan for an area once adopted and therefore both have the potential to determine where development will and will not go. To ensure the right promotion strategy for your land it is important to understand the timetable for the Council’s Local Plan, the level of housing likely to be directed towards your town or village and whether a Neighbourhood Plan is being prepared in your area. However, the important point to note is that both Plans are the subject of consultation; it is important to actively engage with the plan making process and ensure that the Council is aware of the availability of your site and that you can show its achievable and deliverable. The best way to do this is through the Council’s call for sites process. A similar exercise if often completed as part of the Neighbourhood Plan process.

Our planning system works best if development is properly planned for and therefore understanding how the Council’s Local Plan intends to identify housing sites and the role that a Neighbourhood Plan could have in the selection of sites is vital to ensuring your site has the best chance of success.

Could your land have development potential?

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Professional services Budget tax break ‘snubs’ family farm businesses • Concession only for limited companies • Call for measures to boost productivity • Restriction hampers farm investment

F

arm businesses run as sole traders and family partnerships have missed out on a major tax break because the concession is restricted to limited companies.

The exclusion of a huge proportion of the rural economy from the new super deduction capital allowance is perverse and discriminatory, says the Central Association of Agricultural Valuers (CAAV).

The 130% super deduction capital allowance announced in last month’s Spring Budget is limited to companies – excluding a substantial part of the economy, says CAAV secretary and adviser Jeremy Moody.

Productivity “At a time when the economy needs more support to invest than ever before, the exclusion of partnerships and sole traders from the super deduction relief is limiting productivity in the rural and agricultural sectors.”

Agricultural productivity has increased by only 0.7% a year since 2000, says Mr Moody. The situation needs remedying – and taking action is easier now the UK has more control outside the EU, he adds.

“Instead, this exclusion is perceived

as a direct and conscious discrimination against all unincorporated businesses by the government – hindering investment and productivity.”

Mr Moody says discrimination against the rural sector is further highlighted by the Help to Grow Digital scheme – also announced in the Budget – which requires a company registration number for a business to express an interest.

Investment Rural and agricultural businesses are often family-run and very few are incorporated. Mr Moody says the need for investment by partnerships and sole traders is just as valid as investment by companies.

The government argues that it is common for capital allowances to be limited to companies. But Mr Moody says this isn’t always the case – including recently abolished enhanced capital allowances energy and water investments.

“The fact that the super deduction will be available for two full years gives greater security for companies planning expenditure. But this still leaves unincorporated businesses without investment confidence.”

Applications open for basic payment scheme Farmers have until 17 May to apply for this year’s basic payment scheme – with the claim window also open for existing Countryside Stewardship and Environmental Stewardship revenue agreements.

All applicants can update their personal and business information by applying through the Rural Payments service, where farmers and their agents can view and transfer their entitlements and land parcels.

The scheme has been simplified to reduce the burden on farmers. This includes the increased use of warning letters and offers of advice rather than penalties as the default response to a breach of scheme rules.

Rural Payments Agency chief executive Paul Caldwell said: “We will continue our commitment to ensuring timely payments to farmers and land managers but would urge you not to leave things until the last minute.”

New appointment: farm manager Oliver Scott and estates managing director Alexander Newport

First farm manager appointed since 1982 The Bradford Estates – which covers 4,800ha across Shropshire and Staffordshire – has appointed a fulltime farm manager for the first time since 1982.

Oliver Scott joins the estate from Thelveton Estates in Norfolk. He will be responsible for creating and implementing a new strategy for the estate’s 1,440ha of farmland which is being brought back in hand.

Mr Scott’s remit includes the adoption of new farming practices. It is part of a 100-year regeneration vision which estate managing director Alexander Newport says will leave a legacy for generations.

It includes cover crops, introducing grazing animals, direct drilling to reduce CO2 emissions and ensuring habitats are created for natural insect predators and a reduction in chemical pesticides.

“Appointing a farm manager is an incredibly exciting step forward for us,” says Mr Newport. “Our farmland is a huge asset to us and a really important part of our future plans. Oliver joining us will help bring all our ideas and visions together.”

Since returning to Shropshire from London to run the estates just over 12 months ago, Mr Newport has more than doubled staff numbers as he paves the way for a complete overhaul of the farming business.

Mr Scott says: “It’s a really exciting time to be joining the Estates team. It’s very rare to start a job and not inherit someone’s work. Normally you’d be taking on workers, machinery and processes but starting at Bradford Estates, it’s all completely new.

“It will be challenging but starting from the very beginning will enable us to do things the way we want to without dealing with processes that are in place because they always have been. It’s an honour really to be in a unique position like this.”

APRIL 2021 • MIDLAND FARMER 45

FINAL SAY Clodhopper

Screen test for farm machinery When it comes to farm machinery, online sales are no substitute for the personal touch, says Clodhopper

B

uying a new tractor once involved the same age-old routine: a visit to the local dealer, plenty of coffee, a sharp intake of breath, a calculator with only a minus button – and eventually a large discount if paying upfront.

For the past year, it’s a been a very different story. A friendly face-to-face chat with our local machinery rep has been impossible during the coronavirus pandemic – making it hard to walk away with a good deal.

Zoom meetings are not on my bucket list. They may save the local rep travelling time. But I am not interested in buying a tractor from the comfort of my own home – no matter how much time and money it might save.

I prefer the personal touch. Buying anything should be about building a rapport and developing a working relationship. It may be my age, but I have always found it difficult to do that on screen.

It’s not only when buying new. The pandemic has seen online auctions of

46 MIDLAND FARMER • APRIL 2021

secondhand machinery come to the fore.

These sales are great – but I much prefer the atmosphere of a live auction and long for their return.

“

Zoom meetings are not on my bucket list”

Online shopping Times, though, are changing. More and more machines and vehicles can be bought at the click of a button. Volvo says it intends to make only electric cars by 2030. It says they will only be available for sale online. I think agriculture will soon follow suit.

Clothes, food and even houses are also being sold this way. The manufacturer or builder can cut out the middle man and go direct to the consumer. With this in mind, farm machinery dealers owning or leasing bricks and mortar may be a thing of the past.

It used to be that you could only purchase certain brands of tractor from your local dealer. Venturing further afield to another country would see a reduced discount because dealers were restricted to their selling areas. In effect, they controlled each region.

Of course, the major farm machinery manufacturers may keep some premises and retain dealerships. But these may only be used for advice and to store the latest models to showcase individual ranges of machines.

Price comparison After all, when most people who buy a car today use the various online price comparison sites to source the best deal. The market may be smaller but it wouldn’t take much to extend this concept to farm machinery.

As machinery becomes more reliable, farmers are less reliant on local dealers for servicing. Much of it can be done in the field. Service intervals are increasing. And smarter machines automatically contact the engineer remotely.

All this means today’s dealers can tell farmers when faults occur with their machines without leaving the comfort of their office. In some cases these faults are detected before the farmer or operator knows.

That said, there will be downsides if dealers disappear and direct selling becomes the norm. There will be no friendly, no warm banter and no opportunity for either side to haggle. Many friends have been made over a coffee – not by staring at a screen.

As for me, I need help to engage with farming friends and family using modern technology. It certainly shows what is possible. But I prefer the personal touch, a 24mm spanner and a big hammer.

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