Midland Farmer April 2023

Crop drying, ventilation and storage systems specialists.

Midland Farmer

EDITORIAL

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OPINION Johann Tasker

Budget changes not enough for our farming future

Planned changes to inheritance tax relief could help landowners and tenant farmers – but the government still lacks a coherent vision for agriculture as a whole.

The proposals would see agricultural property relief from inheritance tax extended to cover land in environmental land management – something which could encourage more growers and livestock producers to join the new farm support scheme.

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.

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Analysts say the move will give more farmers greater confidence that changes in land use will not put their tax status at risk – and won't be penalised for helping to tackle the twin challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss.

The Country Land and Business Association and the Tenant Farmers Association have both argued that agricultural property relief should be changed. And both organisations – representing landowners and tenants – have welcomed the proposal.

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt announced the plan in last month's Spring Budget. A public consultation is now under way. But this

was not a Budget that will help secure a future for UK agriculture or food production.

Despite global geo-political uncertainty, including the war in Ukraine, there is still no government plan to enhance or protect food security – a key issue highlighted repeatedly by NFU president Minette Batters.

Ag-inflation remains high – and so too do consumer food prices. Despite easing slightly high input costs threaten to render food production unprofitable, with growers in some sectors already curtailing output.

Energy prices are also prohibitive when it comes to ramping up production – with more support and certainty needed for farm businesses struggling to keep people fed affordably during the cost of living crisis.

If the government wants a future for farming, it must take agriculture more seriously – and recognise the importance of domestic food production – not just for the thousands of family farms across the country, but for the benefit of UK consumers too..

Johann Tasker Editor

Farmers face 'cliff edge' following Spring Budget

• 'Not a budget for UK agriculture'

• Producers need greater support

• Action required on food security

NFU president Minette Batters has accused the government of failing to take food security se riosuly following last month's Spring Budget.

It comes after Chancellor Jeremy Hunt failed to extend governmentbacked schemes to ease the pain of skyhigh energy prices. The NFU says the scheme should include the horticulture and poultry sectors – but the govern ment said no.

Mrs Batters wrote to the chancellor ahead of the budget. In the letter, she urged Mr Hunt to prioritise food production – and called for an extension of government's Energy and Trade Intensive Industries discount scheme.

Soaring costs

Mrs Batters explained: “Ahead of the Budget, the NFU was clear that greater support is needed for the thousands of farm businesses which are trying, but struggling, to keep our nation fed amid soaring production costs.

“It’s therefore extremely frustrating that the ETII scheme was not extended to energy intensive sectors such as horticulture and poultry.

"It begs the question – where does boosting Britain’s food security fit into the Treasury’s growth plans?”

Support for growers and poultry producers under the Energy Bill Relief Scheme expired at the end of March. It was replaced with the government's Energy Bills Discount Scheme, which is due to run for 12 months.

But the NFU says this scheme offers far less protection to businesses because it replaces what was a price cap with a token discount.

A number of industries were identified for additional support under the

ETII – but agriculture and other farm level sectors were left out.

Calling for an urgent review into the government scheme, Mrs Batters said it was “irresponsible that the scheme completely overlooked food production – not to mention being wholly at odds with the government’s own ambition to produce more home-grown fruit and vegetables”.

Support and confidence

“An urgent review into the ETII is needed to ensure that essential and vulnerable food producing sectors, such as protected horticulture and poultry production, do not face a cliff edge after the end of the energy bill relief scheme.”

Ag-inflation, high input costs and

costs

ongoing uncertainty over government plans for agriculture have all made it difficult for some farmers to invest in their businesses – although some budget measures were welcomed by the farming industry.

For more analysis of the Spring Budget, see page 45.

CLA opposes Labour's right to roam plan

The Country Land and Business has urged Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer to scrap his pledge of an English “right to roam”.

Sir Keir has promised that a Labour govern ment would give the public unrestricted access over much of the countryside. But the CLA says the policy would have unknown consequences for nature, farming and public safety.

CLA president Mark Tufnell said the plan ig nored the need for such land to be protected for the purposes of food production, natural habitats and the vast array of environmental projects be ing undertaken by landowners.

“This act feels entirely incompatible with Sir Keir’s claim that Labour is becoming the party of the countryside,” said Mr Tufnell.

“We already have a fine network of public access, 140,000 miles of public footpaths in England and Wales, 3.5 million acres of public access land and significantly more in permissive access.”

An opinion poll commissioned by the CLA last year found that the public is sceptical about a

The CLA says walkers should stick to footpaths and access land.

right to roam. Some 69% of the public said they felt walkers should stick to footpaths and areas of access land, whereas only 21% were in favour of a right to roam.

Farmers are struggling amid soaring input

Minette Batters

We were asked to pollard some well and truly established trees near Evesham. Their overhang was becoming detrimental to the free flow of the ditches and tractor cab paintwork.

This was a perfect opportunity for us to break out the 21t excavator and our tree shears. Didn't take too long to get things ship shape.

On the way back to the yard we had a call to see if we could help at Stratford Agri Market with tidying up the roadside trees and ditch. Being only about a mile from our head office and as we were literally driving past the door, we could hardly say no.

Once the trees were thinned out sufficiently we could get on with the ditching.

Coveted award for agri-tech innovation Hub

Anew central hub building at South Lincolnshire’s latest Food Enterprise Zone has won ‘Development Project of the Year’ at the Greater Lincolnshire Construction and Property Awards.

Dubbed the FEZ, the project was delivered by Lincolnshire County Council – and jointly funded by Greater Lincolnshire’s Local Enterprise Partnership. It aims to support the startup and growth of agri-tech and agrifood sector businesses.

“The project truly captures the strategic importance of the agrifood industry to Greater Lincolnshire, and as an entry it offered a project outcome that achieved and exceeded the category’s objectives,” said judge Simon Morris,

of construction consultants Gleeds.

Also notable was the building’s nod to the county’s strong links to Holland with Core Architects modelling the build on the iconic Dutch barn. Lo cated in Holbeach, it brings together entrepreneurs with other experts in food and farming.

“It’s a visually appealing building and development, with a palette of materials that encapsulate and respect the architectural vernacular of this county. Importantly, it aligns a sense of place and purpose which is essential in design, but often lost or overlooked.”

Located at the heart of the UK Food Valley in Lincolnshire’s South Holland District, The Hub is part of the South Lincolnshire FEZ and is a collaborative

space specifically designed for championing new agri-tech and agrifood sector SMEs.

The project has links to the Lincoln Institute of Agrifood Technology at Lincoln University’s Riseholme Campus – with the aim supporting and enhancing the productivity, efficiency, and sustainability of food and farming in the region.

A sense of place and purpose

New law sees hare coursers ordered

to pay £12,000

Two men have been ordered to pay more than £12,000 after appearing in court charged with hare coursing offences under new laws.

Darren Lee, 26, and Ronnie Doherty, 21, were the first people to be convicted in Lincolnshire under new and tougher legislation introduced in August last year.

The pair were ordered to pay an equal share of £11,144 kennelling and veterinary costs for four sighthounds which officers seized from them on 25 August, when they appeared at Boston Magistrates Court on 7 March.

The men were initially arrested in the Holbeach area after we received several reports of hare coursing in Gedney and West Pinchbeck on 25 August, 2022. They were released on police bail and later charged.

Both men were also ordered to permanently forfeit the dogs and disqual-

ified them from owning or keeping dogs for five years, suspended until March 31 to enable them to rehome their pets.

They both pleaded guilty to two charges of trespass with intent to pursue hares with dogs.

New legislation

The charges follow new legislation that came into force on 1 August last year, which makes it an offence to go equipped for, search for, or pursue hares with dogs, and an offence to trespass with intent to search for or pursue hares with dogs.

The new law also allows courts to order a reimbursement of the costs of kennelling which is paid for by the police.

NFU county adviser Johanna Musson, said: “This is tremendous news and a landmark conviction. On behalf of farmers, some of whom

have been terrorised by hare coursing, we offer a huge thank you to Lincolnshire Police and the Crown Prosecution Service for their work on this case.

“This has been the culmination of extensive local and national lobbying from the NFU, working with the police and the PCC, for harsher sentences and increased police powers to tackle this barbaric activity that has plagued the Lincolnshire countryside for too long.

“We now have a genuine deterrent to hare coursers – if you come here, you’ll have your dogs, cars and equipment seized and receive a hefty fine.”

The men were also both fined £416 for each of two offences and ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £166 and prosecution costs of £85. An order for the forfeiture and destruction of a thermal scope used to detect body heat of hares was also made.

The Food Enterprise Zone hub supports new food and farming businesses

Arable

Optimise herbicide applications for effective weed control this spring

• Tailor sprays to on-farm condition

• Consider mix of control strategies

• Target weeds at appropriate time

Maximising herbicide efficiency will be key to controlling weeds while reducing input costs this spring.

Soaring ag-inflation means more farmers will want to get the most from spray programmes this season, says FMC technical manager Mat Hutchings. Doing so will help optimise margins while minimising any environmental impact, he adds.

“Herbicides are fundamental for the control of spring germinating weeds in winter cereal crops, and it will be difficult to achieve optimum margins if herbicide inputs are reduced – it’s a real balancing act.”

Spray performance

Growers should aim to maximise spray performance using appropriate a combination of appropriate tank mixes, cultivations and by tailoring herbicide applications around seasonal conditions, says Mr Hutchings.

“By allowing growers to apply their chosen products in one pass, tank mixing reduces compaction and helps to

reduce labour and fuel costs,” says Mr Hutchings, who recommends co-formulated sulfonylurea herbicides.

Wide spectrum

Co-formulation Ally Max SX – which contains metsulfuron and tribenuron –has wide weed spectrum control when applied alone but can also be used with an appropriate partner product if the weed spectrum dictates.

“It is a good choice for growers look ing to maximise their herbicide perfor mance” explains Mr Hutchings, who says growers should consider cultiva tions to help reduce weed pressures on top of choosing a suitable herbicide. Choosing to direct drill, for example, could help discourage weed germina

tion. More traditional cultivation techniques could encourage weed germination and allow stale seedbed weed control ahead of drilling.

“When growers are considering these options, they should always speak to their agronomist and decide which methods suit their land before making any significant decisions.

Effective control

Growers should remain aware of unseasonable weather conditions which can significantly affect weed growth and herbicide performance..

Herbicide applications should be targeted at smaller actively growing weeds to give the most effective control, adds Mr Hutchings.

Where this is not possible growers should consider higher herbicide rates or water volumes to improve coverage. This is especially the case when controlling weeds like groundsel which can become large very quickly – and can develop waxy leaves in windy, dry conditions.

“Weed control can be challenging but it’s always better to reduce the risk of a problem before it becomes a major challenge later down the line,” says Mr Hutchings.

“Although some growers may be tempted to make cutbacks with products, I’d recommend always working with your agronomist to investigate how you can optimise applications rather than compromise them.”

Recommended List survey findings due

Results from a major survey are set to be published after more than 800 people provided their views on the AHDB Recommended Lists (RL) for cereals and oilseeds.

Opinions were gathered as part of a major review to ensure the RL remains a worldclass independent trialling project – helping growers select the most appropriate cereal and oilseed rape varieties for their farms.

The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board is conducting a full analysis

of the responses, with a release of the headline results anticipated in the spring. Recommendations based on these results will then be implemented.

AHDB head of crop health Jenna Watts said: “We are delighted with the response level, which exceeded that of the previous RL review in 2018. I’d like to thank everyone who contributed. Around three-quarters of responses were from farmers, demonstrating their passion for varieties and this coordinated network of variety trials.”

In spring 2022, levy payers rated the RL 4.2 out of 5.0 for importance during a Shape the Future consultation. In response, the AHDB agreed to fund the RL and review it as part of its five-year sector plan.

The review aims to be thorough and cover many aspects, from the type and nature of the trials to the way data is analysed and variety decisions are made.

The AHDB says the results help it direct investment, so the RL delivers the most important variety data.

More growers are focusing on spray programme efficiency this spring

Targeted smaller actively growing weeds for best control, says Mat Hutchings (right)

How adjusting septoria score can protect early wheat crops

Tweaking winter wheat fungicide programmes to reflect drilling date can help mitigate yield losses from septoria, says ADAS research.

Winter wheat varieties sown on 23 September or earlier are at significantly higher disease risk from septoria than their Recommended List (RL) score suggests – most likely because these crops are exposed to septoria spores earlier in the season.

“The varietal RL ratings have been based on a drilling date of 7 October,” says Jon Helliwell of BASF. Adjusting applications of Revystar XE to reflectr the actual sowing date can prevent potential yield losses, he adds.

Bringing the drilling date forward by two weeks effectively reduces the variety's RL septoria rating by 0.6, says Mr Helliwell. Likewise, crops sown two weeks later increased the rating by 0.6.

The relationship between drilling date and actual septoria rating was proved in 25 trials over five years. The research team included scientists from ADAS, NIAB and the SRUC – Scotland's Rural College.

Mr Helliwell says: “If you drill a crop of LG Skyscraper with a resistance score of 4.9 two weeks early, this means you need to manage the septoria risk as you would a crop of KWS Barrel with its score of 4.3.

“But if you drill the same crop two weeks later than the standard date, the septoria risk is akin to a crop of Gleam.”

The principle applies to all varieties on the recommended list. And Mr Helliwell says it is an important point to consider in a season when an early harvest last year gave many growers an opportunity to get winter wheat crops established ahead of their usual drilling date.

Fungicide rates

BASF has been exploring the impact of drilling date and variety with dose rates of Revystar XE since 2021. A best-fit line shows the optimum economic dose rate is higher where cultivar resistance to septoria is reduced.

“This could come from a less resistant variety, or could come from a more resistant variety drilled earlier,” says Mr Helliwell. “Even the most resistant varieties, when drilled early, have an optimum economic dose at T2 of 1.1 l/ ha Revystar XE.”

In conclusion, dose can be used as a tool to mitigate the impact of Septoria associated with drilling early.

“By upping the rate applied to those crops sown on or before 23 September you can ‘buy back’ the yield,” says Mr Helliwell. “It more than covers the cost of the additional fungicide.”

Inherent variations within the field means growers should choose a product with protective and curative action.

“We don’t want to rely on curative activity, but it important when dealing with the natural variability found on-farm.”

Steve Crayston's field of wheat, sown following sugar beet and spring barley

Adjust applications according to sowing date, says Jon Helliwell

Cereals tickets raise money for charity

Early bird tickets for Cereals 2023 are now on sale, with half the proceeds going to the Multiple System Atrophy Trust, a charity close to the host farmer’s heart.

The two-day event is being held on 13-14 June at the Thoresby Estate, Nottinghamshire. The 4,860ha estate has been in the Pierrepont family since the 1590s – and current incumbent Gregor Pierrepont had no hesitation in choosing the charity.

The trust provides specialist nurses and research to support people living with multiple system atrophy, a neurological disorder caused by degeneration of nerve cells in the brain. This can result in problems with movement, balance and blood pressure control.

“It’s very close to our hearts as it was set up by my aunt Sarah, who was afflicted by this very rare disease,” says Mr Pierrepont. A special Cereals fundraiser will be held in Sarah's memory on 13 June, he adds.

Organisers say the event will show case the latest in arable agronomy, ma chinery, technology and business advice. Exhibitor numbers are already 30% up on last year, with four new features, says event manager Alli McEntyre..

Precision agriculture

An energy and biomass hub will examine ways to navigate rising energy costs.

An ag-analyst academy will focus on precision agriculture; and farmers will explain how social media has changed their business.

The Isuzu off-road driving experience returns by popular demand. Visitors will also have the chance to ride alongside a selection of Bednar’s towed implements.

Crop plots remain at the heart of the event. This year will see five new crop plots and the return of the wheat and winter barley feature. Curated by Ceres Rural, it will showcase a selection of Recommended List varieties.

Mammoth Millet

Failed Rape?

Mammoth Millet - the perfect solution for failed crops of rape.

OSR Growers know the frustration and difficulty of realising late in the spring, that a crop of OSR isn’t going to be viable. This creates the dilemma of what to do - especially if the ground has been sprayed with autumn herbicides.

Mammoth Millet is not sown until early May, and can be direct drilled or sown after failed rape with minimal cultivations. Furthermore, the Millet now arguably offers as good or better a gross margin than OSR anyway - thus putting things back on track.

Gross margins over £1,100 per Ha.

Mammoth is a cheap,- simple and easy crop to grow and we are seeking new growers for 2023.

The two-day event is being held at a new venue this year

Worm-eye view

Visitors will get a worm-eye view in the NIAB Soil Hole. The NAAC Drainage Hub will feature seminars with the chance to meet drainage experts.

Seminars will cover agricultural policy, net zero, regenerative agriculture, technology and innovation.

“Cereals brings together people from across the industry to share specialist knowledge, innovation, and a determination to tackle key challenges.”

Early bird tickets are £10 each until 13 April and £15 afterwards. Tickets on the gate will be £20. For full details, please visit www.cerealsevent.co.uk.

Why Grow Mammoth Millet?

Compared to blackgrass, shown here, Italian ryegrass produced twice as much seed

Trials shine spotlight on early weed control

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spray application rates

Growers should seek to control grass weeds sooner rather than later this spring – rather than waiting for more to emerge, suggests NIAB research.

Farmers should focus on weeds with potential of a high seed return, not just from a crop competition point of view, says John Cussans, a NIAB specialist in weed biology and crop management.

“The message for early spring is the weeds you see in the crop right now are the ones that you are targeting,” says Mr Cussans.

“The ones that germinate later and are less and less of a threat to the crop, and less and less of a threat in terms of ongoing seed return.”

The trials assessed a range of grass weeds germinating at different times through an autumn-drilled crop. Weeds which emerged two or three months after drilling were four or five times smaller than weeds emerging with the crop.

Less biomass

Compared to blackgrass, Italian ryegrass produced twice as much seed and wild oats had three or four times as much biomass. But weeds emerging in February or March had 10-20 times fewer seed returns – and much less biomass.

“It's a really nice overall picture,” explains Mr Cussans. “The larger the plant, the bigger the plant biomass, the more the crop competition and more seed return. It’s a beautiful linear relationship.”

The reduction in weed size and seed return with later emergence was even more marked than the NIAB team expected, says Mr Cussans. This is another reason for getting on top of weeds sooner rather than later.

“For many growers, there’s naturally a tendency to think 'I’ve got this weed that germinates through the season, I’ll wait until every last individual has emerged to target my application timing.'

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spotlight control

Rates and timings

“In fact, we can now see that you would be better off focusing on rates and timings that get good control of those early germinating weeds – accepting that the smaller number of later germinating weeds may well come into the field.

Conducted in association with Syngenta, the trials reinforce the role of Axial Pro in early grass weed control. Overall, the strategy should be to get that maximum efficacy on early emerging weeds, says Mr Cussans.

Even with changing grass weed species and differing biology, farmers still need to really focus on making sure they get the best possible control of those individual weeds germinating alongside the crop in the autumn.

Tank mixes

Syngenta field technical manag er Pete Hawkins says the advice from the trial for Axial Pro ap plication this season is to target ryegrass and wild oats when they are smaller and actively growing.

Growers should prioritise fields with larger overwintered weeds and control weeds before fertiliser applications further strengthen their growth.

Tank mixing with growth regulars and broad-leaved herbicides can save time and make better use of application windows, says Mr Hawkins.

Application techniques

Optimising application techniques will ensure good coverage of weeds and achieve best possible control.

“We need to remember that there is a whole load of grass weeds to manage in the future; not just to focus on blackgrass,” explains Mr Cussans.

That means growers and agronomists should consider the different aspects of weed biology.

“Some of these other grass weeds – such as wild oats and bromes – have different biological characteristics to blackgrass.

“We are repeating the trial this year, where we have added an element of application timing and rates to complete the whole picture to help growers target these weeds much better.”

Weed seeds that germinate later are less of a threat, says John Cussans (below left)

Farmers should target weeds when they are smaller, says Pete Hawkins (below right)

Arable Reminder to follow nematicide best practice this spring

Potato growers are reminded to follow best practice this spring when applying granular nematicides – to ensure the products are used safely and protected for the future.

“Granular nematicides remain a vital tool for use as part of an integrated strategy to control nematodes,” says potato agronomist Simon Alexander, who is a working group member of the Nematicide Stewardship Programme (NSP).

“The NSP best practice brings together practical advice and forms part of the Red Tractor standard for growers,” adds Mr Alexander, who has outlined six key areas of the protocol that growers should keep in mind.

Qualify

All operators must have a PA4 or PA4G certification and must have completed the ARTIS Nematicide Stewardship e-learning course to apply granular nematicides. They must also be members of NRoSO

Calibrate

Applicators must be checked daily for damage or wear, to ensure all pipework is correctly fitted. The applicator must be inspected and certified as fit for use by a qualified National Sprayer Testing Scheme engineer at least every two years.

Single pass

The product should be incorporated within a single pass, immediately prior to planting with no granules left on the surface of the soil.

Shut off

All applicators must be fitted with a device in the cab that allows operators to shut off granule flow at least 3m from the end of each row. The allows for all piping to run out before the machine is lifted out of the ground.

Spillages

Use the same filling point in the field to allow any spillages to be identified quickly. Bury small spillages immediately to ensure no granules are left on the surface. If the spillage is large, remove it to an empty nematicide container, clearly label it and return it to the manufacturer, burying any remnants immediately..

For more on potatoes, see our Root Crop Special beginning on page 19.

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Root Crop Special

£3000/ha sugar beet offer inundated with inquiries

Contract to supply Bury St Edmunds factory with early beet deliveries this September

Anew sugar beet contract which will pay up to £3,000/ha – regardless of crop yield – has closed after being deluged with applications from growers.

The contract offer was for early season beet delivered into the Bury St Edmunds factory for the 2023/24 crop year. Beet must be delivered into the factory during 4-13 September.

British Sugar said it development the “onetime” early beet contract in partnership with NFU Sugar. The processor added: “We have faced unique challenges this year, which require unique solutions to address.”

The new contract aims to bring additional homegrown beet into the Bury factory earlier so sugar is available at the Silver Spoon plant before the start of the main autumn harvest.

'Unique contract'

“To take advantage of this unique contract, you need to offer at least 5ha of extra beet over and above any existing contracts,” said British Sugar. “Requests will be processed on a first-come, first served basis.”

In a statement, British Sugar said the price offered would compensate for lower yields when beet is lifted early. It said the contract would require growers to lift and deliver beet between the agreed dates unless otherwise specified.

On top of the £3,000/ha payment, British Sugar said it would also pay an additional £40 tonne for all sugar beet received above 72.5t/ha. The overall contract offer would be capped at 1400ha nationally, it added..

Transport allowance

Growers will also receive a transport allowance up to 60 miles and a local premium – both based on the distance from the field to the Bury factory. This will be paid on delivered beet as per the standard beet contract.

The new contract states that growers will be expected to adhere to best practice. This includes the requirement for sugar beet land to be in an existing arable rotation and drilled by 15 April. Farmers must establish at least 80,000 plants per hectare to qualify.

Challenging year

It has been a challenging year for British Sugar. NFU Sugar, which represents sugar beet growers, said yields had been disappointing and the area of crop grown had been small during 2022/23.

As a result, British Sugar has faced a shortfall in sugar production. Opening the Bury factory early will enable the processor to reduce the amount of imported sugar it needs to honour its commitments to customers.

Challenging season for British Sugar

British Sugar says it is working with growers and customers to manage any potential shortfalls caused by this year’s crop.

It follows challenging weather conditions during the 2022/23 growing season, which affected sugar beet crops across Europe, not just the UK. Yields have been variable on farms across East Anglia and the East Midlands.

The contract offer is in response to a number of factors. Earlier this year, British Sugar said it had optimised its manufacturing processes and was looking at other management actions to balance supply and demand.

Alternative sources

It added: “This will mean possibly using alternative sources of highquality white beet and cane sugars from across the world so we can corefine with UK beet sugar for a limited period of time.

“We have managed these situations before and remain committed to our place at the heart of the homegrown UK sugar beet industry.

“We are very optimistic about the future of the UK beet sugar industry as part of a thriving rural economy, harnessing cutting-edge technologies, further decarbonising our supply chains, and seizing the opportunities that free and fairtrade offer.”

The processor was hit by a significant plant failure at its Cantley factory in Norfolk last December. The incident meant beet had to be diverted for processing at Bury St Edmunds and Wissington.

British Sugar agreed to meet the additional costs to growers.

Beet will be delivered earlier to Bury St Edmunds this year [Photo: Edward Crawford / Shutterstock.com

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Root Crops

Plan blight control to reduce resistance risk

Potato growers are urged to plan their anti-resistance strategies for blight following the failure of a major control product.

Total control failure in potato blight management product mandipropamid (Revus) was confirmed in Europe last December – prompting warnings that British farmers must revise their own strategies too.

The resistant blight genotype (EU43) is yet to be identified in the UK – but growers were told to act now to protect potato crops because blight strains that start in Europe inevitably make their way over here, says Geoff Hailstone, potato lead at UPL UK.

“Farmers need to plan their blight control pro grammes carefully,” he warns. Resistance was confirmed in a joint study by leading ag ri-chemical compa nies and researchers from Aarhus Univer sity, Denmark.

While a concern, blight resistance to fungicidal products is not a novel sit uation for UK growers. Les-

sons have been learnt as a result of previous fungicide resistance issues, says Mr Hailstone.

Responsible approach

“The UK has a robust blight monitoring programme and a responsible approach to control. British producers still have plenty of options to choose from, but solo product applications must be avoided.”

Instead, growers should consult their agronomists about product mixing. “The advice should be to mix blight control products with at least one active ingredient from another group. And with each application, mixes need to be alternated.”

Growers should be mindful that all carboxylic acid amide (CAA) group fungicides, of which mandipropamid is one, could pose a threat because there is a crossresistance risk between CAA products.

CAA group products contain dimethomorph, benthiovalicarb, or mandiprop-

Potato blight remains a catastrophic disease

amid, says Mr Hailstone. “We need to monitor these fungicides, as there may be additional losses from this product group.”

A prudent approach would be to consider mixing single-site products like mandipropamid with a multi-site product like Manzate 75 WG (mancozeb) or using Proxanil (propamocarb + cymoxanil) which contain actives from low-resistance-risk groups.

Later in the season, Proxanil + Ranman Top (cyazofamid) are rated most effective on the Euroblight table to control tuber blight and avoid issues in storage.

Advice to protect blight fungicide efficacy

Confirmation of a single strain blight pathogen in Denmark has reinforced advice for growers and agronomists to prevent resistance occurring in the UK.

European research has shown that the gene mutation associated with CAA resistance is only observed in homozygous strains of pathogens – which significantly reduces the risk of further resistant strains developing.

In previous reports, the James Hutton Institute has highlighted how difficult it is for blight pathogens to make the transition to the UK against prevailing winds, says Syngenta technical manager Andy Cunningham.

“Revus (mandipropamid) remains as effective against the UK blight population as

has always been the case. The key challenge continues to be to assure that the CAA chemistry group efficacy can be protected as an essential tool for growers.”

Syngenta’s dedicated European trial protocols – in the presence of high disease pressure and CAA resistant strains – had shown that mandipropamid in mixtures with alternative modes of action had always delivered effective control of the disease.

Furthermore, the strategy reduced the level of resistance in the blight population. Adding a mixture partner was the most effective, along with alternating sprays with different modes of action that was also a useful additional tool.

The work also demonstrated that simply

raising the dose of CAA fungicide or increasing the number of sprays would prove counterproductive, thus increasing selection and the incidence of a resistant strain, says Mr Cunningham.

“Always mix CAA fungicides with a product with an alternative mode of action on blight, as well as to alternate sprays with different modes of action where possible. The overall number of CAA fungicides in the season-long blight programme should also be limited.

“Furthermore, maintaining spray intervals to assure preventative treatment and good application techniques to achieve full protection of the crop canopy will reduce the risk of any blight developing.”

The UK has a robust monitoring programme

“

Andy Cunningham: growers still have options to control blight

Root Crops

Greenvale teams up with Trinity AgTech

Potato supplier Greenvale AP has partnered with carbon calcula tor company Trinity AgTech to measure progress towards the compa ny's environmental targets.

Greenvale technical director Joann Reid said the business was looking to update its environmental strategy by identifying areas for carbon reduction before setting ambitious but achievable new targets.

Trinity AgTech's natural capital navigator package Sandy would enable potato growers on farms across the country credibly and confidently analyse their sustainability and carbon credentials, saidMs Reid

She added: “As a leading supplier of fresh potatoes and the UK’s largest supplier of organic potatoes, we are active-

a growing demand for more sustainable produce.

“We want to fulfil consumer and supply chain demands for sustainable, low carbon produce, so we’ve been looking for the right partner to work with that helps us meet these needs.”

The software would help Greenvale and its growers understand where they currently sit in terms of their natural capital and carbon footprint – and what the best options are for ensuring environmental goals are met.

“The nature of growing potatoes cur-

rently involves relatively high carbon outputs. But, gathering rigorous analytics through Sandy will allow us to set ambitious, yet achievable goals to credibly reduce our carbon outputs, and convey them with integrity.”

Sandy was the obvious solution to partner with to strengthen the business resilience of their farmers and grower network, said Ms Reid. “We haven’t come across another natural capital navigator which offered the breadth that Sandy offers.

“The long-term aim of this new partnership is to create financial, environmental, and social resilience for Greenvale growers by capturing scientific data and analysis which growers can use to accurately pinpoint areas of opportunity.”

Trinity AgTech business development director Anna Woodley said:

“Greenvale is renowned for being innovative and early adopters of technology and will be an important player in this natural capital space.

“Building an evidence base from credible data is crucial for good decision making. We’re looking forward to working with Greenvale and its growers through their sustainability journey.”

Greenvale is among the country's biggest potato suppliers

Second year of success for beet nematicide

Agarlic-based nematicide has proved its worth in in dependent sugar beet tri als for a second successive season.

Trials of NEMguard DE in Yorkshire and Thetford during 2021/22 were very encouraging – despited the low risk of dock ing disorder in 2022, says Alistair Wright, a crop protection scientist with the British Beet Research Or ganisation (BBRO).

NEMGuard performed as well as Vydate, explained Dr Wright. Sugar beet plants were healthier from establishment relative to the untreated crop, he said.

In addition, root fanging symp toms were significantly reduced.

'Perfect dose'

Fully randomised trials were conducted by the BBRO during the 2022/23 campaign to build the body of data and replicate the initial results. Trials were supported by manufacturer Ecospray and Certis Belchim.

NEMguard again improved root quality, said Dr Wright. “There is a perfect dose response to NEMguard from the Yorkshire site, with an improvement in root quality seen as the rate increased,

such a low-risk

“Everything looks positive from what we’ve seen so far and should build confidence.” Dr Wright advised growers to get soil testing

done ahead of drilling the 2023/24 beet crop.

“Get your drill ready and if you have an free-living nematode issue and risk is high, use it in 2023,” said Dr Wright.

BBRO guidance on application rate is to continue using NEMguard DE at 10kg/ha. But the dose response seen in the 2022/23 trials suggests that growers can move up to the maximum individual dose of 20kg/ha rate to get a healthy payback.

“Even if free-living nematode pressure is moderate, growers should see a return with the current value of sugar beet at £40/t,” said Dr Wright.

“If it turns out to be a wet year, the case is even stronger.”

Growers should ensure their applicators are serviced and calibrated ready for NEMGuard DE application this spring, said Jeremy Booth, eeastern technical account manager for Certis Belchim, which markets the product.

Nematode damage to a seedling (right), compared to a healthy beet plant (left). Photo credit: Blackthorn Arable despite it being

season.

Root Crops

How seed potato trials are helping to control disease

Researchers and farmers testing alternative solutions to protect the high health status of the UK seed potato industry.

With chemistry to protect seed crops fast disappearing from the toolbox, experts from the Royal Highland and Agricultural Society Presidential Initiative are exploring ways agronomist can work with farmers to develop more integrated pest management strsategies.

Scottish Agronomy has been working with potato grower Jim Reid, who has been involved with seed potato trials for more than a decade at Milton of Mathers Farm, near St Cyrus, in south Aberdeenshire.

Agronomists and Mr Reid have been studying the benefits and practicality of spreading straw mulch and applying mineral oils to the crop canopy – and comparing this integrated approach with the effectiveness of using a pyrethroid insecticide.

Climate pressures

Trials in Aberdeenshire and Fife found that applying a straw mulch led to a 49% reduction in mosaic virus, with a 54% reduction when mineral oil was applied. A pyrethroid insecticide in-

climate pressures threatening crops. The need for collaboration with growers and researchers was critical for translating science in to practice, he added.

“As scientists and researchers, it is important we remain one step ahead of the sector in identifying problems and can create approaches to address these challenges. We have a pretty unique relationship where we trust each other, and we complement each other.

“Our skills base is largely complementary but too often scientists are guilty of working in silos, and there is a lack of joining up the dots through practice. Through translational science you can begin to understand technical problems and come up with practical solutions.”

Nuanced approach

More farmers were taking a nuanced approach to crop protection, said Mr Reid. “It is important moving forward that we listen to the science and look at how we can take more of an integrated approach to building our resilience,” he said.

“We have taken a belt and braces approach to protecting our crops, regardless of the consequences and now

Top: Alternative techniques include wildflower corridors from headlands to the middle of the field.

Above: Arable farmer Jim Reid, at Milton of Mathers farm in Aberdeenshire, has been at the heart of seed potato trials in Scotland for over a decade.

No silver bullet

“There is no silver bullet, but thorough some of the work we have been doing in our trials, we have been able to demonstrate scalable, practical techniques which could be more widely adopted by the seed potato industry.”

Ewan Pate, who is vice-president of the RHASS initiative, said times were changing. For many years, the answer to problems like aphid resistance to insecticides involved chemistry. Now the answer was more likely to be biological or mechanical.

“It is scientific nonetheless and this interesting work at Milton of Mathers

Spreading chopped straw before potato emergence boosted disease resistance

Root Crops

New test for potato pesticide residues

Anew test has been launched by Eurofins Agro UK to detect pesticide residue detection.

Booked online, it comes some farm assurance schemes have implemented the need for growers to test every year – or at least have an evidence-based justification for fewer tests.

The potato industry is expected to make significant changes to the way potatoes are stored following the loss of approval for chlorpropham (CIPC). This may include the use of other chemicals like maleic hydrazide and 1,4-dimethylnaphthalene.

Farm assurance schemes are keen to see crops tested for potential residues to prevent chemicals being transferred to the food chain. Eurofins Agro offers a UKAS accredited pesticide residue test for potatoes which costs £160 per one kilo sample.

“The tests can be booked and paid for online, and results from samples that are sent directly to our laboratory take between three and four weeks,” said Sophie Cath, from Eurofins Agro UK.

The UK's system of statutory Maxi-

mum Residue Levels (MRLs) represent the maximum safe amounts of residue likely to remain in food products when a pesticide has been correctly used by growers who adhere to good agricul tural practice, said Ms Cath.

Vital data

“By using our tests, growers will re ceive vital data to ensure products are fit for purpose and will be able to pro vide evidence to regulators and con sumers that potatoes are safe by dem onstrating that any residues present are below regulatory limits, or MRLs.”

Potatoes form a significant part of the UK diet and monitoring shows that sometines the crop contains pesticide residues – albeit at safe levels. The UK food industry continues to keep these residues to a minimum.

Until approval was withdrawn, chlorpropham was seen as a vital tool to control sprouting in stored por tatoes. It was applied to about 3.5m tonnes of potatoes stored each year in the UK but alternative strategies are now used.

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Push ahead urgently with review of pork sector, Defra warned

• Reform needed for secure future

• Fairer producer price mechanism

• Government must honour pledge

The government is being urged to push forward with its pork supply chain view – and help secure lasting reform and a fairer trading environment for struggling pig producers.

The past two years have seen pig production losses estimated at £750m while many other parts of the supply chain remain profitable, said the National Pig Association (NPA). The sector is suffering an ongoing crisis that simply cannot continue, it added.

More than 350 responses were submitted to Defra’s consultation on contractual practice in the pig supply chain last autumn, most of whom were producers.

“This not only gave Defra a very robust mandate, but also a comprehensive body of evidence to be able to make real progress on the outcomes we so desperately need,” said NPA chief executive Lizzie Wilson.

Time running out

A proper and comprehensive review had the potential, ultimately, to bring about clearer and more certain contractual relations within the chain, underpinned by new legislation, added Mrs Wilson.

Defra minister Mark Spencer has suggested that Defra’s response to the pork consultation is due to be published imminently soo. But the NPA insists this must be just the start of a reform process – and the government must be fully committed to it.

A similar review of the dairy sector was initiated by Defra in 2020. This is still in progress with legislation expected this year.

Mrs Wilson said: “The UK pig sector does not have that sort of time and we

hope the lessons learned by the dairy sector will help us in this process.

“We lost an estimated 15% of the national breeding sow herd in the 12 months to June 2022. Although there are now signs of a return to profitability, the independent pig sector remains in an extremely fragile state.

“While we appreciate this is not going to happen overnight and any policy must be fit for purpose, producers need confidence to continue production.

“We need the risk to be more proportionately spread through the supply chain, and that will only come with far-reaching reforms.”

Eight key recommendations

The NPA made eight key requests in its response to Defra’s consultation last autumn. It sees those requests as a blueprint for what the NPA says would be a fairer, more transparent and more sustainable pork supply chain.

Demands

Key asks include legislation to underpin new pig contracts. This would allow producers, marketing groups and pork processors to negotiate terms that work for all parties – including a fair price for producers backed by an effective dispute resolution mechanism.

The NPA also wants better forecasting to improve business planning, as part of a drive to increase transparency across the chain. It wants buyers to make better use of the entire pig carcase, rather than just selective cuts.

NPA chief policy adviser Rebecca Veale added: “We have moved from a situation where processors did not have the capacity to take the number of pigs available, causing horrendous backlogs on farm, to one where we now have a shortage of British pigs.

“Pig prices are now rising as a result, but this degree of volatility is in nobody’s interests, which is why we want a more balanced trading environment, better forecasting and for buyers to take a longer-term perspective.”

The NPA says a fairer supply chain

will benefit everyone, not just producers

We desperately need real progress

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New director sought for fallen stock company

The National Fallen Stock Company (NFSCo) is seeking a new board director with experience of the pig industry.

NFSCo is the nationwide service for the collection and disposal of fallen stock. It is looking for a director who understands the livestock sector and its challenges – and who can relate to the context of the business with a degree of empathy for the people involved.

The company's aims and objectives include promoting high biosecurity levels while finding ways of reducing the cost of fallen stock disposal.

NFSCo says creating competition between fallen stock collectors helps keep prices low to farmers.

Cost-effective

The advert for a new board member does not specify a particular sector. But the new appointee will replace former National Pig Association regional director Ian Campbell – and the NPA says someone with a similar background will help NFSCo refine its service for pig producers.

The NFSCo board provides high-level oversight of company activities and performance while making decisions on behalf of stakeholders.

Previous board or committee experience is desirable, as is an understanding of operational processes, current technology and strategic planning.

NFSCo chairman Michael Seals said: “This is an opportunity for a forward-thinking livestock farming or veterinary professional to join our board to help shape and manage a service that is vital to the farming community.

“In return, being a member of the NFSCo Board will provide a platform to meet influential, and well-connected people in our industry and those associated with us. A rewarding role that will challenge your thinking.”

The non-executive paid role involves four two-day board meetings annually, plus other strategic meetings as required, totalling 10-12 days per year. The closing date for applications is Friday, 14 April.

For full details, email Jane Rockingham at jane@nfsco.co.uk.

Check inlets to optimise controlled ventilation

Pig producers are being reminded to control ventilation rates accurately during cold weather to ensure pig welfare and avoid wasting energy.

“We often think about where we set temperature and minimum ventilation rates, but it’s easy to forget that the most important component of the ventilation system is the inlet – where the air comes in,” says Farmex ventilation specialist Hugh Crabtree.

Modern inlets usually involve a mechanised set of plastic units with a winch motor and cord. But these can stick if they become dirty or need adjusting.

“For the sake of good environmental control and energy saving, do it now,” says Mr Crabtree.

excreted by the birds.

Changes to Wynnstay poultry diets have shown a 13.4% reduction in poultry phosphate excretion can be achieved through simple changes, which lower the requirement for monocalcium phosphate (MCP).

Wynnstay head of poultry Jim Turner says feed rations were adapted after concerns around phosphate pollution from poultry farms. Rations were adapted to reduce phosphate requirements, thereby reducing potential excretion, he added.

A triple dose of a phytase enzyme was added to all layer diets, with a 10.4% reduction in total phosphorus content in the diet – and a 13.4% reduction in phosphorus excre tion per bird per year, said Mr Turner.

Saving money

This was achieved by birds mo bilising bound phosphorus from the raw materials. As a result, the inclusion of MCP could be re duced – helping to save producers money while being good for the environment.

The revised rations required lower levels of monocalcium phosphate.

Below: Simple changes made a big difference, says Jim Turne

"It’s important to have an alternative option that doesn’t affect the cost of the ration or the performance of the bird, and therefore the most economic and sustainable option is to increase the dose of the phytase enzyme.”

Premier Nutrition poultry nutritionist Eloise Lawlor worked alongside Wynnstay to change the rations. A proportion of phosphorus found in poultry diets is in the form of phytate phosphorus which is indigestible and an anti-nutritional factor, she said.

Anti-nutritional factors can influence nutrient utilisation, so reducing MCP levels and incorporating a triple dose of a phytase enzyme where suitable can increase calcium and phosphate availability and utilisation.

“This results in improved feed efficiency and reduces the amount of phosphorus being bypassed and excreted by the bird,” explains Ms Lawlor.

With MCP being a finite resource and phosphate pollution high on the agenda, changing feed rations is seen as a win-win. It can increase efficiency while protecting bird health, welfare and the environment.

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Defra rules out making changes to bird flu compensation

• No further changes likely in future

• Restocking is 'commercial choice'

• Stronger biosecurity recommeded

The government has ruled out further changes to bird flu compensation –saying it is important to maintain a level playing field across the poultry sector.

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MPs had called for the avian influenza compensation scheme to be revised so compensation is paid based on the number of birds alive in the affected flock at the point of disease notification, rather than the actual number of birds culled.

There have been 175 confirmed cases of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza since 1 October 2022. This includes 148 cases in England, 21 cases in Scotland, five cases in Wales and one case in Northern Ireland.

The call for changes to the

Committee, which scrutinises the government's farming policies.

Prompt reporting

But Defra secretary Therese Coffey said compensation for healthy birds culled for avian influenza control purposes was designed to encourage producers to report suspected cases of the disease promptly.

Thousands of birds have been culled across in a bid to control outbreaks. With winter outbreaks becoming much more frequent, government chief veterinary officer Christine Middlemiss has warned that producers must learn to live with the disease.

Changes to the compensation scheme announced last autumn mean assessments of bird health

for change

Therese Coffey: No plans

[Photo: Fred Duval / Shutterstock.com]

Thousands of birds were culled to combat bird flu during the winter

able them to restock earlier, said Ms Coffey.

“The choice is therefore a commercial decision for the keeper,” she added. “In many of the recent avian influenza outbreaks, epidemiological investigations have unfortunately highlight-

ed a strong correlation to insufficient biosecurity measures.

“While it may seem attractive for the taxpayer to subsidise restocking efforts in order to maintain supply of poultry and eggs, we must make sure there is a level playing field within the sector.”

Countdown to Pigs Tomorrow conference

Farmers and other stakeholders will discuss the future for the pig sector at a special event in Leicestershire.

The two-day Pigs Tomorrow conference will bring the pig sector together for the industry’s biggest event of the year, drawing expert speakers from around the world and within the UK pig industry.

Day one will see delegates discuss the international outlook for the sector. A global overview of the industry will be given by speakers from Denmark, Spain and the UK, including Defra farm minister Mark Spencer.

Organised by the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board, the second day will be hosted by AHDB’s head of pork engagement Charlotte Evans and Pig World magazine Alistair Driver.

Professor David Hughes, an

international speaker on global food and drink industry, will offer an insight into ways UK producers should respond to international consumer trends. This will be followed by looking at how to get consumers to eat more pork.

Communications expert Amy Jackson will share her thoughts about the best language to use when discussing key issues affecting the industry. This session will include a panel discussion on business reputation and animal welfare systems.

The afternoon of day two will focus on young producers, led by Flavian Oberio, vice-chairman of the Young National Pig Association. Youngsters will outline their hopes for the industry as it seeks to secure its reputation for future generations.

For full details, visit pigstomorrow.com

Study outlines alternatives to zinc oxide in pig rationsto beat diarrhoea

• Quest to reduce pig diarrhoea

• Work with suppliers to resolve

• Use mix of suitable strategies

Feed additives and nutritional changes can be combined with other strategies to combat postweaning diarrhoea, says a study.

EU regulations have stopped the production of zinc oxide for therapeutic use – including its inclusion in feed rations to reduce diarrhoea in postweaned pigs. Any remaining product within the supply chain is expected to be exhausted this summer.

Alternative practices – including nutritional changes, management changes, and improving immune status – can reduce post-weaning diarrhoea and post-weaning mortality, suggests a study by the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board.

Alternative options

The rapid evidence assessment (REA) was conducted by the AHDB in conjunction with Scotland's Rural College and the Pig Veterinary Society ahead of the upcoming ban on zinc supplementation in pigs.

Findings suggest a plethora of alternatives – but the study warns that no single intervention scores as highly on repeatability or reliability as the use of zinc oxide at therapeutic levels to con-

Tailor solutions to your farm

The study says no other practices are as effective and inexpensive as zinc oxide in feed at therapeutic levels (2500ppm) in treating post-weaning diarrhoea in pigs. This highlights the need for a multifactorial approach tailored to each farm.

“This work provides a useful tool for the pork industry to navigate the loss of zinc oxide”, says AHDB animal health and welfare scientist Bethan John. Producers, vets and nutritionists should work together to decide the best practice for individual farms.

Gut health

A pig with a well-developed gut is less likely to suffer from post-weaning complications, such as diarrhoea. Reduced post-weaning dips in daily liveweight

lets with a well-developed gut.

Managing the removal of zinc effectively can be achieved by optimising gut health, maintaining good biosecurity and managimg colostrum effectively, suggests the report. This should be done in well-managed environments, it adds.

Acidification and fermentation can be used to reduce or control the diseasecausing microbes that enter pigs’ guts through feed and water – although the AHDB says these techniques require substantial on-farm investment.

Altering the levels of certain nutrients can reduce stress on the developing pig gut. Research suggests reducing crude protein levels in weaner diets can lower the degree of post-weaning drops in performance.

Moy Park unveils farm of the future

Poultry processing giant Moy Park has unveiled a state-ofthe-art farm on its pathway to reach net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2040.

Beech Farm in Lincolnshire has been built from the ground up with sustainability in mind and can reduce Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions by 100% – effectively taking the farm ‘off grid’ when all systems are at capacity.

Technologies used on the farm to reach net-zero emissions include

ground source heat pumps to generate heating, heat exchanger systems to reduce overall heat usage, and solar technology capable of generating 1MW of electricity in tandem with lithium battery storage.

“Everything from the design and layout of the farm building to how we capture and recycle rainwater reflects our mantra of reduce, reuse, renewable,” explains Stephen Beagan, head of agricultural estates for Moy Park.

“Beech farm is a first for the poultry sector.”

A well-managed environments encourages good gut health

Beech farm will be a ‘gamechanger’ for the industry, says Stephen Beagan

Protect herds from spring butterfat depression

Good rumen function and energy supply boost butterfat during spring grazing.

As dairy herds are turned out for spring grazing, producers must balance rumen function and energy demands to avoid butterfat depression and fertility issues.

“Rumen function is put under a lot of pressure at turnout as cows go from having a controlled ration balanced in fibre and starch to a more variable forage base of grazed grass,” says Richard Kirkland, nutritionist for Volac Wilmar Feed Ingredients.

“While the diet transition alone is enough to cause challenges to the rumen that can have an immediate impact on milk production, early grass growth may be akin to rocket fuel and is expected to be rapidly fermentable.”

High in energy, more rapidly-fermentable forage can cause disruptions in rumen

pH and pass more quickly through the di gestive system. These conditions lead to an increased risk of acidosis and can pose a sig nificant threat for milk fat depression

Additional fat

Fat supplementation in buffer rations can help meet energy needs. But supplement choice is of paramount importance because variable spring grazing conditions make it harder for energy supply to be maximised.

A drop in fertility can occur as a conse quence. In perfect grazing conditions, it is pos sible to support 25+ litres of milk per day, but dry matter and energy intakes can be signif icantly reduced in wet, overcast conditions.

“Especially for spring calvers, maximising energy intake is essential during the early part of the grazing season as cows’ have a greater nutrient demand to support milk production and body condition ahead of breeding within a short window of time,” says Dr Kirkland.

During early lactation, cows cannot eat enough to meet the high energy demands of

production, and lose condition.

Research indicates a fall-off in conception rate of around 10% for each 0.5-unit loss in condition through this period. To minimise this effect, composition of buffer feed needs to be carefully considered says Dr Kirkland.

High-fibre supplements such as citrus pulp and soya hulls will provide a better balance in the rumen and in conjunction with a ru-

Left:

Above:

men-protected fat supplement can provide the greatest response in milk fat as observed in research studies at Nottingham University.

While it may work out on paper, supple mentation with rapidly-fermentable carbohydrates such as wheat or barley as energy sources offer greater challenges and increase risk of acidosis and making the fall in milk fat worse.

“Rumen-protected fat supplements have around 2.5-times the energy content of cereals, making them ideal to help maintain

energy supply through variable springtime grazing conditions without undesirable rumen effects,” says Dr Kirkland.

Individual fatty acids impact cow performance and influence partitioning of nutrients between milk and body fat stores or cow condition.

Milk contracts

This means supplements should be selected based on the blend of fatty acids they contain depending on the stage of lactation, individ-

ual farm challenges and requirements to maximise returns from specific milk

To support both fertility and milk production during this time, Dr Kirkland advises a rumen-protected fat supplement with a proven ratio of C16:0 (palmitic acid) and C18:1 (oleic acid) to strategically influence the partitioning of nutrients between milk and body condition.

“Fatty acids, the building blocks of fat supplements, influence the partitioning of nutrients to specific areas of cow performance, enabling producers to choose supplements according to milk contract requirements at particular stages in the lactation cycle.”

During the early lactation period C18:1 is a key fatty acid, increasing partitioning of energy and nutrients to improve body condition as well as improved development of fertilised eggs.

But given the challenges of early spring grass, products containing higher levels of C16:0 can be considered as effective ingredients to increase milk fat production.

“Careful choice of supplements is essential at grazing,” says Dr Kirkland. “A rumenprotected fat supplement can support both fertility and milk production performance while helping ensure energy demands are being met in a safe way.”

Dietary challenges at the start of the grazing season can be overcome

A good diet will maximise returns from specific milk contracts

SUPPLIERS OF SPECIALIST BALE HANDLING EQUIPMENT

Before milk, comes molasses

To maximise milk yields from forage remember to add Molasses!

For more information about our extensive range of liquids and to find your local merchant please call us on 0151 955 4850 or visit www.unitedmolasses.com

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MAXIMISING FEED RETURNS

Optimising feed resources? It’s vital to understand nutritional quality, using that to formulate feed rations to maximise production, efficient feed use and minimise adverse effects on the environment.

Feed Adviser Register (FAR) members provide professional support and quality feeding advice.

With strict entry criteria to join FAR, based upon training and experience, Advisers must complete core training and competency tests to become full members of the Register. FAR membership is renewed annually requiring continuous professional development.

Over 1,200 feed advisers from all over the UK are registered, providing advice for ruminants, pigs, poultry and game.

View more about FAR and how to source sound advice from a competent professional near you at: www.agindustries.org.uk/feed-adviserregister.html

FAR Advisers rely on consistent information from nutritional analysis of feed materials including silage throughout the feeding season.

The Forage Analysis Assurance (FAA) Group exists to ensure that analysis is accurate and consistent. Members complete regular proficiency tests to ensure reliable quality results for customers.

Visit our website, www.faagroup.co.uk , to find out more about our members, check their analysis performance and learn best practice farm sampling techniques for silage bales and clamps.

A forage analysis report with the FAA quality mark, means you and your feed adviser can have confidence in those results. Watch our animations to learn more about FAR and FAA:

FAR: Feed Adviser Register Video link: https:// www.youtube.com/watch?v=cQTEBEgZZn4

FAA: Forage Analysis Assurance Group Video link: https://vimeo/731358322

Grass & Forage

Novel grass 'could be a gamechanger'

• High yielding and drought tolerant

• Deeper roots increase resilience

• Better water and nutrient uptake

Scientists have developed a new grass variety which could be a gamechanger for livestock farmers facing increasingly extreme weather conditions.

Researchers at Aberystwyth University's National Plant Phenomics Centre found significant differences in rooting depth and behaviour when comparing new festulolium varieties with tetraploid ryegrasses.

Festuloliums are a cross between a ryegrass and fescue. A perennial festulolium, AberRoot has been bred by Aberystwyth scientists with the aim of developing characteristics suitable for our changing climate.

Robust variety

The new grass has a high-sugar content but is also tolerant to dry and cold conditions. It was bred by crossing an Aber High Sugar Grass tetraploid variety with Atlas Fescue, a native of the Atlas Mountains in north Africa.

Researchers compared root depths at 21, 42 and 77 days. They also looked at the effect of simulated grazing by cutting the grass at intervals similar to a rotational grazing system in the UK.

the tetraploid. After 77 days, it also had higher shoot and root dry weight – important for dry matter potential.

“It is clear the festulolium has greater rooting depth,” said Fiona Corke, Smarthouse manager at the National Plant Phenomics Centre. “When roots reach further, they can access water and nutrients deeper in the soil profile.”

This means better water and nutrient uptake – but it also improves carbon capture and soil porosity which provides better drainage and benefits soils which are at risk of flooding.

Simulated grazing

Researchers also noted simulated grazing was followed by a burst of extra root growth. Dr Corke said: “We want to ex-

nutrient efficiency.”

The new variety has a high sugar content and recovers well after cutting

AberRoot is the first perennial ryegrass based festulolium to be listed on the AHDB Recommended Grass and Clover List. It is expected to be available to UK growers in spring 2024.

Paul Billings, managing director of Germinal said: “We are pleased to see our Germinal Deep Root products showing such promising results. We will now conduct further trials to build up a bigger, more robust dataset.”

Germinal was committed to finding solutions to the challenge of producing food in the face of climate change, said Mr Billings. “Grassland is this country’s biggest crop and largest carbon store –and the foundation of sustainable livestock production.”

Kuhn offers £500 discount on new balers

A £500 discount is being offered by Kuhn Farm Machinery on its full range of balers. The offer is available from Kuhn's network of dealers throughout the UK – including nine specialist baler centres.

Kuhn Baler Centres were set up in 2020 to provide sales and servicing coverage across Great Britain. Dealership staff receive enhanced training and the centres are constantly stocked to supply essential parts.

Baler centres offer demonstration events and online support through the MyKuhn customer portal. The discount

offer is valid until 31 July as part of an intiative encouraging farmers to go further with forage.

The discount includes all fixed, variable, round and square balers. All new machines – including the FB, VB, FBP, VBP, SB and i-BIO models – are available with £500 off the net price.

All new Kuhn baler models are available with £500 off

KUHN BALER CENTRES

• Collings Brothers of Abbotsley Abbotsley, Camb, PE19 6TZ

• Oliver Landpower Colchester Colchester, Essex, CO4 9TB

Grass is the bedrock of good livestock production

“

Partnership builds bigger and better silage clamps for less

How recycling reduces clamp costs

Recycled waste clay and topsoil from the construction industry can help slash the cost of a new silage clamp – or increase specification without extra charges.

'Muck-away' material removed from industrial, housing and civil engineering projects during site preparation is highly cost-effective and environmentally beneficial, says Will Wilson, of clamp experts ARK Agri.

“The bottom line is that everyday construction contractors are removing thousands of tonnes of high-quality material of the exact type required to build the sort of modern high capacity silage stores encouraged by the Environment Agency and planning authorities.

“You only have to look at the amount of new housing and warehousing going up around the country to realise how much of this material there is available.

Perfect base

“It’s a construction company’s worst nightmare to try and dispose of this with significant legislation and fees involved, [but] it’s a silage clamp builder’s dream.

“In conventional clamp construction the material, often a mix of clay and topsoil, is perfect for levelling bases and correcting levels on site.

“In the case of an ARK clamp, it’s

With this in mind, ARK Agriculture has set up the first of what it hopes will be several muck-away partnerships with construction and haulage contractors to identify and deliver suitable material to farm businesses building new clamps, says Mr Wilson.

‘Win-win’ arrangement

“Muck-away has historically been tipped in areas like disused quarries or land fill sites but there are limitations to this method and the transport costs and fees are considerable.

“But by accepting this material, producers have access to a relatively lowcost building material with the money saved being used, for example, to subsidise their planning application, Environment Agency approval and even support the installation of a full ARK system.

“It’s a win-win all-round. The muckaway contractor gets a cost-effective site to tip material, the farmer gets a new subsidised clamp and we get to build a higher specification sloping wall installation.

Less risk

“Such clamps reduce the likelihood of pollution incidents and are welcomed by the Environment Agency and, because they are also extremely easy to hide with only the earth banks be-

better clamp specifications without higher costs.

company’s unique and patented design, says Mr Wilson.

“The sloping wall means the walls are extremely durable not moving under the pressure of modern clamp machinery and the earth bank provides a safe working platform for operators to cover and uncover clamps.

“Furthermore, it means material can be safely stored above the height of the wall and we estimate this can add as much as 10% to the capacity of the clamp for a given footprint.

High oxygen barrier film

Such developments combined with modern Silostop high oxygen barrier films (HOBs) are giving producers a real opportunity to move their forage production forward and make the most efficient use of home-grown feed materials while minimising environmental impacts, he believes.

"Building a new clamp rather than relying on baled silage can help dairy farmers reduce costs, minimise use of plastic on-farm and lower their carbon footprint significantly.

"Over 20-years, the cost of ensiling each tonne of silage would be halved, use of plastic would be nearly 20 times less and associated C02 production would be reduced by nearly 95%.”

There are now over 200 ARK systems installed across in the UK.

MILEAGE. MORE SILAGE

FOLDING GRASS FORKS

• Available in 12ft, 14ft and 16ft wide variants

• 12ft with Industrial and Q-fit pick up

• Industrial pick up for 14ft and 16ft wide models

• Hydraulically operated side extensions

• Exceptional visibility through the fork

• Integrated hose storage to protect couplings and hoses

• Heavy duty 65mm pivot pins and bushes to ensure durability

• Smooth tine wear faces to prevent material build-up

SCAN FOR MORE!

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New folding silage fork launched for 2023 season

Attachment maker ProDig has launched a new folding silage fork ahead of this year’s grass cutting season.

The Mammoth and Taurus ranges of folding forks are available in widths from 3.6m (12ft) to 5.5m (18ft) with weights ranging from 1.5-2.2 tonnes. Tines are 50mm Hardox with a standard length of 1829mm (6ft) with a 2090mm (7ft) option for larger machines, says the company.

Centre section

Twin high tensile side tines are bolted in place for ease of replacement in the event of damage. An optional tine guard can be fitted for road safety when the fork is foldedwith a maximum width of 2.9m in the transport position

Up top, the spill frame is bolted to

the top frame and has been beefed up in line with the rest of the fork. A removable centre section is standard for machines with Z-bar linkage systems, while the entire spill frame can be removed for low roof situations.

Folding sides now feature an adjustable wing locking system for added strength and support even in the most demanding applications. Each wing is hydraulically held in place with an added double pilot check valve safety system.

This prevents creep during operation. It also protects against a wing falling during transport in the event of a hydraulic hose failure. Greaseable 40mm pins are fitted to the double clevis ram ends with 40x50mm replaceable bushings aiding efficiency.

The main pivot pins have been in-

The fork width is up to 5.5m, with smaller versions available.

creased to 80x496mm. Again, these are greaseable and feature replaceable bushings to maximise performance and longevity.

The new bottom section is constructed from high yield 12mm folded and fabricated plates with an added 12mm Hardox wear strip fitted along the bottom to increase wear and improve component life.

The Taurus folding fork range can be specified with increased tine spacing if desired with an optional bolt-on maize blade. Both the Mammoth and Taurus range can be specified with customer logos or branding, as well as custom colour schemes.

Claas and New Holland Grass Pickups in stock today

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F200

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info@goldingham-contracts.co.uk

As farming becomes more complex and markets more volatile, we all know that optimising operations can help increase yields and reduce costs Farmers are increasingly turning to technology to help them make better decisions One of the most valuable tools available to farmers today is farm data But what is farm data, and why is it so important?

Farm data is simply the collection of information related to your farm operations This can include everything from yield information, sales records and invoices, to spray records and equipment usage By collecting and analysing this data, you can gain valuable insights into your operations to make more informed decisions

The first perceived hurdle of using farm data effectively is collecting it, but many farms already have a wealth of it There are a variety of tools and technologies already being used such as sensors and farm management software Alongside other increasing technology such as drones and soil mapping As the data is collected, it can be analysed to identify trends and patterns either internally within your farm or against wider data sets

However, it's important to note that not all data is created equal To make informed decisions, you need to be able to trust the data you're collecting and analysing This means that the quality of the data is just as important as the quantity

For example, if you're collecting combine telematics from a sensor that has not been properly calibrated, the data may not be 100% accurate to the exact tonnage taken from a field, but it is going to be accurate enough for you to identify trends across fields Once that year's grain has been sold, the total tonnage can be analysed against your field telematics to reveal a true figure for each field Our software cleans, validates, and structures data before inputting it into our analysis platform, automating that type of previously timeconsuming activity

In short, farm data can provide valuable insights to you as a farmer As data use becomes more prevalent and the results of successful data implementation become more evident, farms are starting to seek higher volumes of data capture with higher accuracy of recording

Professional services

Plan to extend agricultural inheritance tax relief

•

Good for farmers and environment

•

Public consultation now under way

•

Greater confidence for landowners

Government plans could see agricultural inheritance tax relief extended to include land under long-term environmental land management.

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt unveiled the surprise move in last month's Spring Budget. The Central Association of Agricultural Valuers described the announcement as good news for landowners and farmers.

CAAV secretary and adviser Jeremy Moody said: “This is welcome news for landowners and farmers, who may have concerns about entering certain environmental schemes in case they forfeit agricultural property relief (APR).”

Call for evidence

Stage one of the process calls for evidence on the tax treatment of ecosystem service units. The aim is to understand the commercial operations and areas of uncertainty in respect

of taxation.

Stage two is a consultation about a possible extension of APR from inheritance tax to cover land in environmental land management – exploring how far APR may be a barrier to taking up environmental management options.

The call for evidence also seeks views on the Rock Review’s proposal to limit APR on let land to where it is let for at least eight years. This is a chance for all views to be considered, said Mr Moody.

The CAAV has voiced concern that limiting APR to land let for at least eight years could see any gains outweighed by land being let for shorter terms or not let at all. “It will not encourage anyone who is not letting to start letting,” says Mr Moody.

Long overdue

Strutt & Parker research director Jason Beedell said the launch of a new

consultation exploring the taxation of land used for the provision of ecosystem services was one of the most significant rural announcements.

“This is long overdue,” he said.

Mr Beedell added: “The potential expansion of APR [to include] certain types of environmental land management would give farmers greater confidence that changes in land use will not put their tax status at risk.

‘We have long argued that landowners should not be penalised for taking steps to address the challenge of climate change and biodiversity loss.

“It would be a welcome step. Coupled with government guidance on the stacking and bundling of ecosystem payments which Defra has already promised, it will remove another barrier preventing farmers from getting more involved in environmental land management.”

The closing date for the public consultation is 9 June 2023.

Tax relief could make ELMs more attractive

More farmers would sign up to Defra's Environmental Land Management scheme (ELMs) if it is covered by agricultural inheritance tax relief, say industry leaders.

Country Land and Business Association president Mark Tufnell said: “The CLA has campaigned extensively to change the definition of agriculture in the tax system to include ecosystem services.

“It is vital to give farmers and landowners the confidence they need to engage with environmental delivery, improving biodiversity and carbon sequestration.

“Without this change, we will see a perverse outcome whereby forward thinking, nature friend-

ly farming will be punished by the tax system.”

The change would also serve to encourage farmers to look afresh at entering into ELMs, said Mr Tufnell. “ELMs has laid a path that is worth walking, and we encourage farmers to look very carefully at it.”

That said, it was difficult to see what – if any –ambition the government had for the rural economy, added Mr Tufnell. Rural businesses continue to be held back by apathy in public policy, not least in the planning system.

“The rural economy is 19% less productive than the national average. Closing this gap would add £43bn to the national economy. Nothing in this budget will unlock that vast potential.”

Mark Tufnell: Path worth walking

More land could be entered into environmental stewardship schemes

This is long overdue

“

FINAL SAY Clodhopper

Looking back to go forwards

The past has lessons for us all when it comes to securing our farming future, says Clodhopper.

My elders constantly tell me that farming has to look to the past to move forward and something has to change. I don't want to go back down memory lane but it does make you wonder what farming was once like – and what it has become.

This was thrown into sharp relief in late February when I saw on my travels a tractor pulling what can only be described as a rake-like machine. It was rear-mounted with a simple single blade about 6m long.

The machine was effectively tractor hoeing wheat – the purpose being to destroy blackgrass that had survived the pre- and postemergence sprays. The wheat looked as if it was drilled in rows about 10 inches apart –so the hoe could work on GPS steering.

Wide and narrow

I took a closer look over the hedge when the coast was clear. Then I noticed that the drill hadn't been set correctly, so some rows were wide and others narrow. This meant manual steering was the only option, which ruled out any operator under the age of 40.

The results meant some wheat plants were covered up and the blackgrass was partially disturbed – although most of it was still attached by the root. If this operation had been done in drying conditions some of the black-

grass may have been killed.

But the wheat plant count was somewhat reduced – and it remains to be seen how much blackgrass survives. I was later told that the idea is to scalp the blackgrass so it stunts the growth and keeps the weed in the bottom of the wheat crop, preventing it from seeding.

My elders tell me this was common practice in wheat and beans in the late 1950s and early 1960s. But with the modern hoe costing upwards of £10,000 is it still a viable option? Looking at the field a month on, it seems the blackgrass will still rule the roost.

Costs and benefits

The other great innovation during the late 1950s was, of course, the Triple-D tractor, produced by Ernest Doe & Sons of Ulting, Essex. Capable of pulling a five-furrow Ransomes plough, it cost about £1950 and 289 units were built between 1958 and 1964.

I have tried to work out how affordable that would have been – by comparing prices then and now for farm machinery, wheat, houses and cars. Being barely old enough to remember that far back I have to rely on my elders again.

In the early 1960s, a Ford Anglia car would

set you back about £600. Nobody could agree on the average house price but land was worth about £200/acre. Wheat, as far as i can understand, was £40-50/tonne.

So a big question must be asked: With considerably more than 104hp needed to pull a five-furrow plough and the average tractor now costing £150,000, which year is best when land values today stand at about £8000/acre?

Smaller machines

Without going into too much detail, it is clear to me that wheat prices today should be much higher and tractor prices lower. And that is before we get embroiled in a conversation about modern machinery being far too heavy.

No wonder soil health and land drainage appear to be suffering. You don't have to look too far these days to see standing water in fields during winter because of soil compaction or damaged drains.

If older farms could cope with smaller machines, why does this not apply today? Larger and fewer farms farming the same amount of land, I guess – and the need to finish a field almost before you start.

Is there really no room for lighter tractors and equipment in the modern age? After all, if the need to control blackgrass – including the move to spring cropping – all points to yesteryear. So why not the machinery too?

It seems blackgrass still rules the roost.

The later Triple-D 130 used two Ford 5000 tractors, rather than the two Fordson Power Major used in earlier models