Midland Farmer February 2021

February 2021

Midland

Farmer Serving the farming industry across the Midlands

Great Farmland Bird Count: How you can take part and make a difference

Arable Green light for neonic-treated sugar beet seed Animal health Antibiotic targets build on past success

Machinery Manufacturers team up for new engine Clodhopper Big battle to keep off road

Crop Storage & Handling: Extra power for JCB’s new Loadall range

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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

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

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

Farmers must not pay price of rushed Brexit deal

B

oris Johnson understandably made a big song and dance after finally securing a Brexit deal with the European Union. But it’s clear that the Prime Minister must tie up lots of loose ends so it works properly for agri-food exporters – and ultimately for UK farmers too.

Tariff-free trade has been largely secured. But this is not the frictionless deal that many had been hoping for. The non-tariff barriers – including redtape, inspections and certification – are huge and costly, hampering trade in both directions.

Imports of farm machinery and spare parts are taking longer. So too are shipments of livestock feed and animal medicines. Exports are taking longer too – reducing the shelf-life of perishable products including meat and fresh shellfish.

The government insists that much of this is due to “teething problems” as people get used to the new way of working. That may be part of the reason.

But it is also evident that changes in our trading relationship with the EU are deep and significant.

Take the example of second-hand farm machinery. Many used tractors are exported from the UK to Europe. But these must now be cleaned and free

Contents

from mud and vegetation – and examined by a Defra inspector before they can be shipped abroad.

The reason? To help prevent the spread of plant and soil-borne diseases from country to country. It wasn’t a problem when the UK was an EU member.

But now we are outside, we are deemed to be a phytosanitary risk and must take action accordingly.

There are other examples too. Meat processors have warned of mountains of paperwork. Hauliers are driving around with lever-arch files of documentation in their cabs, having to rummage through to find the right piece of paper with the right stamp before being allowed to proceed.

This costs both time and money. And that’s not good in an age of just-in-time deliveries and supply chains operating on the thinnest of margins.

The problem is that costs get passed back down the supply chain to the farm gate. Which means farmers pay the price.

The government needs to sort it out. The politicians in power are those who promised life after Brexit would be better than life with Brussels. They must act urgently to deliver that vision – before more people lose their jobs and livelihoods.

Vol 10 • No 1 • February 2021

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

Animal health ................................................29

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

Midland Machinery .................................... 37

Crop storage .....................................................19

Final say ........................................................... 39

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News Red Tractor asks farmers to help shape the future • New standards across three key areas • Farmers invited to help decide how • Proposals ‘mainly about streamlining’

F

armers are being urged to have their say on the future of the Red Tractor assurance scheme – and its standards across the arable and livestock sectors.

Assurance scheme bosses are looking to revise standards across three main areas. They are seeking input from across the industry before deciding how those standards will be implemented from November 2021.

Red Tractor chief executive Jim Moseley said the Red Tractor was recognised as a symbol of British food quality. But scheme standards needed to evolve with the times to reflect changes in legislation, industry practice and emerging issues on shoppers’ minds.

Public trust “We are a proven world leader in food chain assurance, but we cannot rest on our laurels,” said Mr Moseley. “At a time of ever-increasing scrutiny, preserving the public’s trust in UK agriculture and the Red Tractor logo has never been more important.”

Planned changes cover the scheme’s six sectors: beef and lamb, poultry, pigs, dairy, fresh produce, and combinable crops and sugar beet. They have been developed over 12 months with involvement from farmers, vets, processors and retailers (see panel).

The proposals are primarily about

streamlining, legislative compliance and responding to change.

They include simplifying some requirements for farmers around compliance – as well as rationalising standards which are common across multiple sectors.

Delicate balance “These proposals strive to strike a delicate balance which protects and promotes our members, reassures consumers and customers, while acknowledges the implications of the challenges that the industry faces with future trade deals and the agricultural transition plan.”

Mr Moseley said Red Tractor had listened to British consumers and recommendations made in a 2019 review of the scheme. It had found limitations in current standards around animal and

Standards must meet consumer demands and expectations, says Jim Moseley

Proposed changes • Animal Welfare: Including housing structure and cleanliness – and what is acceptable when handling animals.

• Worker Welfare: Improving health and safety at work – and helping to ensure the wellbeing of workers on farm.

• Environmental Protection: The inclusion of farming rules for water to to reduce soil erosion and nutrient run-off.

worker welfare and environmental protection.

Red Tractor was the most trusted food marque in the UK, added Mr Moseley. “Farmers have been an intrinsic part of the process in drawing up the proposed new standards, but now it is over to the membership and stakeholders to have their say.”

NFU deputy president Stuart Roberts said: “The NFU is calling for all farmer and grower members to contribute to the Red Tractor standards consultation to ensure they have their say.

It’s vital that farmers voice their opinion and continue to influence the continuing standard of assurance.”

He added: “Now more than ever, we need to ensure that our standards on food, whether for animal welfare, food safety or environmental protection, meet the needs of both farmers and the public.”

The consultation and review closes on 5 March 2021. For full details, visit bit.ly/RedTractor2021

New chairman for Voluntary Initiative Leicestershire farmer Phil Jarvis has been appointed chairman of the Voluntary Initiative – the organisation which works to encourage the responsible use of pesticides.

Mr Jarvis is farm manager at the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust’s Allerton Project.

He farms 800ha of winter wheat, winter oilseed rape, winter/spring oats and winter/spring beans 4 MIDLAND FARMER • FEBRUARY 2021

in a joint venture with his neighbour.

With 30 years of experience in the industry, Mr Jarvis also chairs the NFU’s environment forum. He said: “I’m looking for solutions to challenges, removing barriers that will encourage more collaboration and promote practices that ensure both our farming and environment prosper.”

We have mentioned many times before about the importance of keeping ditches maintained and the one we worked on here had been neglected for a number of years.

Likelihood is, as the ditch was only accessible from a main road, the persons responsible for its maintenance was not over enthused to carry out the works.

Subsequently the farmer who’s land it bordered had had enough and called us in to help.

The first thing to do was cut the hedge back so we could get to the ditch.

This, as well as the

ditching, required “mobile traffic management” and a dam good hedge basher as the hedge had not been touched for several years either.

The works were an instant success, as not only was road visibility better, the water was chasing us section by section as it was cleared. It went even better once we had manged to clear the road culvert to.

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News

Annual bird count highlights conservation efforts on farm • Farmers helping endangered species • Rare birds found on region’s farms • Results show where help is needed

NFU president Minette Batters counts birds on her farm

G

rowers and livestock producers are being asked to spend 30 minutes this month recording the farmland birds they see on their land.

The annual Big Farmland Bird Count helps show which bird species are benefitting from farmers’ conservation efforts – while identifying the species most in need of help. Run by the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust, it takes place from 5-14 February.

“With 71% of Britain’s countryside looked after by farmers, land managers and gamekeepers, they are crucial to ensuring the survival of cherished bird species like skylarks, yellowhammers, corn buntings and wild grey partridges,” says GWCT organiser Roger Draycott.

“Many of them are already doing fantastic work to support and conserve our native species, including supplementary feeding through winter or growing crops specifically to provide seed for birds, which often goes unrecognised.”

“

the third year running to highlight populations. “Before I took part, I had the farming community’s commitment no idea how many species of bird called to conserving Britain’s native bird speMany farmers our farm their home, and now I look forcies. ward to seeing the results each year.” are doing NFU president Minette Batters said: “Alongside producing climate- fantastic work Farmer support friendly food, farmers are working hard to support our More than 1500 farmers and land manto maintain and improve the iconic Brit- bird species agers took part in last years count. They ish countryside by enhancing habitats, recorded more than 120 species across supporting pollinators and soils, and 566,000ha. Birds included 25 endanprotecting wildlife. gered species from the red list for birds “The Big Farmland Bird Count isEquipment alof conservation concern.

- Livestock - Feed - Fertiliser - Seed - Cash Flow ways a fantastic way for farmers to re-Diversification Projects - Building All participates receive a report - Debt Consolidation cord the birdlife found on their farms on the national results. Mr Draycott and last year saw record numbers of said: “Farmers care for the largest songfarmers braving stormy weather to take bird habitat in this country on their land Important snapshot part and record many different threatand it is brilliant to see so many of them The Big Farmland Bird Count pro- ened species of farmland birds.” committing their spare time to recordvidesEquipment an important national -snapshot Cambridgeshire ing the bird species they see there.”

- Livestock Feed - Fertiliser - Seed - Cash farmer Flow Tom Martin of the health of the UK’s Projects farmland-birds. theConsolidation count was a good way to show To take part in the Big Farmland Diversifi cation Buildingsaid - Debt The NFU is sponsoring the event for how conservation measures affect bird Bird Count, visit www.bfbc.org.uk.

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Arable Seed treatment will help secure future for sugar beet growers

Betanal Tandem can bee used in sugar beet, fodder beet and mangels.

• Green light for neonic seed this spring • ‘No alternative’ against virus yellows • Special conditions limit risks to bees

P

ermission for growers to use specially treated sugar beet seed to combat virus yellows this spring will help secure a future for the crop, say farm leaders.

An emergency application for farmers to use neonicotinoid treated Cruiser SB seed was granted by Defra secretary George Eustice last month. It follows a devastating season during which many crops were devastated by virus yellows.

Similar permission has been granted for growers in other European countries. Neonicotinoid treated seed can now be used as long as strict conditions are met – despite concern that the chemicals are harmful to bees and other pollinators.

Defra said it granted permission because sugar beet yields were significantly reduced in the 2020 season due to virus yellows. Similar conditions in 2021 would be likely to present similar dangers, it warned. Sugar beet was a non-flowering crop and the risks to bees from the crop itself were acceptable.

Limited usage Mr Eustice concluded that in relation to the requirements for emergency authorisation the case for need had been met, that the use of the product would be limited and controlled, and that the

Sugar beet seed

8 MIDLAND FARMER • FEBRUARY 2021

potential benefit from the use of the product outweighed any environmental risks.

Conditions attached to the emergency authorisation include the requirement that no flowering crops are planted as following crops for a period of at least 22 months – with an extended period of exclusion for oilseed rape of 32 months.

The application was made by NFU Sugar and British Sugar.

NFU Sugar chairman Michael Sly said: “Any treatment will be used in a limited and controlled way on sugar beet, a non-flowering crop, and only when the scientific threshold has been independently judged to have been met.”

Fight continues Virus yellows disease is having an unprecedented impact on Britain’s sugar beet crop, with yield losses of up to 80%. “This authorisation is desperately needed to fight this disease. It will be crucial in ensuring that Britain’s sugar beet growers continue to have viable farm businesses.”

British Sugar agriculture director Peter Watson said neonicotinoid seed treatment would help growers tackle virus yellows disease this year while a longer-term solution is sought. This includes sugar beet seed bred to be resistant to the disease.

Mr Watson said: “The situation faced by growers has been unprecedented and this application was a last resort. While there will be restrictions for the following crop, the treatment will be able to be used in a limited and controlled way when high aphid conditions are expected.

“We are continuing our work as an industry to tackle virus yellows in the medium and long term, including through seed breeding programmes.”

Post-emergence herbicide has ‘added significance’ A new post-emergence sugar beet herbicide combines contact and residual activity against a range of broadleaved and grass weeds.

Launched by Bayer, Betanal Tandem contains ethofumesate and phenmedipham in a suspension concentrate. It is authorised for use in sugar beet, fodder beet and mangels, says Lizzie Carr-Archer, the company’s root crop campaign manager.

“Betanal Tandem offers greater ease of use over straights and is approved for use with Dow Shield 400 (clopyralid) and Goltix 70 SC (metamitron) which will help to extend its flexibility in tackling volunteer potatoes and mayweed,” she says.

Weed control in sugar beet has added significance for 2021 after Defra granted permission for neonicotinoidtreated seed. A condition of the permission means flowering weeds in and around sugar beet crops must be controlled to protect beneficial insects.

“Trials indicate that Betanal Tandem delivers strong control when applied with an adjuvant oil such as Mero, a methylated rape oil, with the first application timed for when the majority of the crop plants have reached fully expanded cotyledon stage,” says Mrs Carr-Archer.

“Betanal Tandem has outperformed other two-way formulations in trials, most notably on fat-hen, blackbindweed, small nettle and annual mercury with a clear uplift in efficacy compared with Powertwin. As a result, we expect Betanal Tandem to be the herbicide of choice for 2021.”

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Arable

Variety ‘watchlist’ for wheat yellow rust released

A

yellow rust watchlist has been issued to help identify winter wheat varieties most likely to perform out of line with office disease ratings.

The watchlist orders varieties based on yellow rust levels from the three worst Recommended List trials for each variety. The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board says it can help identify those varieties most likely to benefit from closer monitoring.

It follows the development of a new rating calculation approach that better reflects the diverse and dynamic nature of the UK’s rust populations, announced at the launch of the online edition of the 2021/22 Recommended List in December.

Discussions on the latest twists and turns in the yellow rust story will feature as part of the UK Cereal Pathogen Virulence Survey (UKCPVS) stakeholder meeting, which takes place

Some varieties are more susceptible to yellow rust than ratings suggest

online on 12 March 2021.

AHDB disease research manager Catherine Harries said: “The online wheat yellow rust watchlist provides a way to flag unusual

levels of yellow rust seen in some varieties in some trials, compared with what the headline disease rating would otherwise suggest.

“This extra layer of informa-

tion can provide a valuable early warning of a potential change in the UK’s race structure and help focus in-season management strategies.”

The watchlist showed that varieties are performing broadly in line with the Recommended List ratings, said Ms Harries.

But as the situation can change rapidly, it is important to monitor all crops closely and report unexpected levels of disease to the UKCPVS.” The UKCPVS was set up to detect and warn the industry about new races of rusts and mildew that are capable of causing disease on previously resistant cereal varieties. It is targeted at breeders, crop scientists and technical agronomists – as well as farmers.

The current watchlist uses trial data from the 2019/20 season.

Ratings are based on a three-year data set. To access the watchlist, visit ahdb.org.uk/rl

Soya UK announce new trading partnership with AB Mauri - naturaSoy

From 2021, “naturaSoy” products will be made with 100% UK Grown, Non-GM, Sustainable Soya Beans.

There is a huge interest from plant-based food manufacturers in this new innovative product, and as such, AB Mauri with Soya UK, are looking to place several thousand hectares of Soya Beans on Soya UK’s brand new “naturaSoy” Production Contract.

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Arable

Good strategy key for effective weed control in potatoes • Use all actives at your disposal • Be flexible and put safety first • Pay attention to get timing right

R

esidual herbicides should be applied early to potato crops at high rates for a strong start to programmes this spring, growers are being told.

Despite several high profile product withdrawals in recent years, excellent levels of early season weed control in potatoes can still be achieved by choosing the right mix of chemicals, says Agrovista agronomist Ross Barton.

Mr Barton advises on over 500ha of potatoes across Shropshire, Staffordshire, Cheshire and north Wales. He still sees Soleto (metobromuron) and metribuzin as key residual herbicides with newcomer Aclonifen an effective partner for mixes for fields with high weed burdens.

No single solution “After analysis of weed spectrum, soil type and the variety being grown, there is rarely a standard programme to cover all situations,” he says. “The key is to utilise all the actives at your disposal and put crop safety and flexibility at the forefront of programmes.”

In Soleto and Aclonifen, there are now two pre-emergence options that offer effective solutions, says Mr Barton. Both have no soil type or varietal

restrictions so building programmes around them is a good starting point.

“Soleto, with its active ingredient metobromuron, is very active in soil and is an excellent partner alongside other actives such as metribuzin and prosulfocarb. Aclonifen is also an effective tank-mix partner offering additional control of polygonum weeds in tough situations.”

Looking back to last year’s dry spring, Mr Barton believes it is important to apply residual herbicides early at high dose rates – before a contact herbicide – when dealing with some of the unusual weather patterns the UK has experienced in recent years.

Extreme weather “With the potential for sudden and extreme weather fluctuations I advise getting residuals on as early as possible – normally 7-10 days after planting. With the contact herbicide I would then advise waiting as late as possible, just before the ridges crack, applying it as a separate spray.”

Separating the two sprays enables better overall risk management, says Mr Barton.

“The combination of Soleto and metribuzin worked extremely well in last year’s dry conditions but the varietal restrictions that come with metribuzin can be an issue and I would not advise use of metribuzin on coarse, sandy soils to avoid potential crop damage” he adds.

When it comes to contact herbicides, Mr Barton sees Gozai (pyraflufen-ethyl) as a solid choice. To optimise results, he says it should be applied on its own, at 0.4 litres/ha in

Mr Barton trialled a number of different knockdown strategies last year

“

I advise getting residuals on as early as possible

a mix of no less than 200 litres/ha of water with methylated seed oil (MSO).

“If Gozai is applied at the right coverage levels with an MSO then there should be no requirement for a follow up such as rimsulfuron in over 80% of cases based on the extensive work I did with Gozai during 2019 and 2020.”

Dessication Top of last season’s industry agenda was desiccation without diquat. Most of Mr Barton’s growers opted for a flail and spray strategy. Aided by a timely, warm dry summer, he successfully trialled several knockdown strategies and was pleased with the overall results.

Maize herbicide can be used on linseed too Linseed growers have an extra tool to control difficult weeds after maize herbicide Basilico was granted an Extension of Authorisation for Minor Use (EAMU) registration.

The EAMU means Basilico can be used on winter and spring linseed.

Manufactured by off-patent manufacturers Life Scientific, it contains 100 g/l mesotrione and is reverse engineered from the reference product Callisto.

Previously used as a post emergence herbicide in crops of grain and 12 MIDLAND FARMER • FEBRUARY 2021

More farmers are growing linseed, says Ruth Stanley

forage maize to control annual broadleaved weeds. Basilico’s new EAMU allows the product to be used on both winter and spring linseed as a preemergence treatment. The maximum rate of use is 1.5 l/ha.

“The area of linseed is increasing in the UK as growers look for alternative break crops to oilseed rape, so it’s great news to be able to offer an additional herbicide option for this crop,” says Life Scientific country manager Ruth Stanley.

“We have worked closely with Linseed specialists Premium Crops who have helped us with the EAMU submission.”

Premium Crops linseed agronomist Hannah Foxall says Basilico is the company’s preferred herbicide option – and offers good control of difficult weeds such as polygonums and fat hen.

“It’s important to recognise that the best results come from applications to moist soils immediately after drilling and rolling.”

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Arable Spring varieties remain popular, says David Bouch

Take action now to secure spring seed supplies

S

pring seed varieties will again be in demand this season – and growers are being advised to secure supplies sooner rather than later.

Less barley is expected to be sown this spring than last – when poor weather saw sizeable amount of cropping entered into the ground due a delayed drilling season. But spring barley varieties continue to be popular with growers.

The supposition that there will be a plentiful supply of barley seed available this spring may well be based on a slightly false pretence, explains David Bouch, national seeds manager for agronomy company Hutchinsons.

“It is certainly becoming apparent that although there was a very large crop planted and harvested, the quality of some of those crops is beginning to present a problem, with germinations looking poor and therefore availability perhaps not the given that was perceived.”

RGT Planet, Laureate and LG Diablo (now fully approved for malting and distilling) will be the main three varieties in terms of market share. Newly recommended Tungsten and SY Splendor (under test) and Cosmopolitan (provisional recommendation) are also in demand.

Barley still offers the best competition for black-grass and there-

fore offers both an end market as well as agronomic benefit, says Mr Bouch. These barleys also offer high yield and can hold their own against out and out feed varieties such as Fairway and Prospect.

Spring wheat will have a more traditional uptake. But it invariably sells out. Varieties such as KWS Chilham, KWS Cochise and KWS Giraffe (very little available 2021) will be popular alongside Mulika as the only group one.

Hexham may also see some uptake.

Spring oats will definitely be in tight supply, says Mr Bouch. Canyon remains a favourite among millers – WPB Isabel, Delfin and Elison are competitive when it comes to yield.

Spring Pulses are sought after, with beans being in demand after a shortfall in supply and a large reduction in winter rape.

Lynx will be the likely top variety by area for spring 2021 with interest in LG Raptor and Ghengis likely to increase, depending upon availability.

Peas will in all likelihood see an increase in demand and advice should be sought as to the preferred end markets before final varietal choice is decided upon.

“I would strongly advise that any pulse requirements are attended to at an early juncture to avoid disappointment.”

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Arable

Focus on applications to get best from nitrogen

A

little-and-often approach could improve nitrogen use efficiency this spring – rather than applying lots at once to get crops growing.

Too much nitrogen too soon can swamp small or slowly growing plants with poorly developed root systems, suggests Ross Leadbeater of CF Fertilsers. Instead, four or five applications can be better than the traditional three-way split.

“The key is to make sure whatever N you do apply is taken up quickly by plants and is not left in the system unused or at the mercy of the weather”, says Mr Leadbeater. This probably means growers turning to more frequent but lower level applications than they might be used to.”

Application timing can also be used to manage the canopy. “In slow growing years, early Nitrogen can be used to build tiller numbers and in forward

crops later applications can help thin crops out.”

Optimum amount An optimum to aim for is around 10001200 tillers/m2 with a view to build around 500-600 ears/m2 For more forward crops with 2000 tillers/m2 delaying the first application will be beneficial to starve some of this growth off.

“When it comes to the final solid nitrogen application for milling wheat, this ideally should take place just before growth stage 35-39 to encourage optimum protein building.

“Solid AN will always be more efficient than straight urea for late applications but care also needs taking if you use liquid N, not just because of the risk of scorch but also due to potential problems with crop acceptance.

“Late season foliar N applications

using urea applied at the milky ripe grain growth stage 73-75 don’t always produce functional protein.

“The grain may appear to contain enough protein N, but it won’t contain the functional proteins required and in some cases millers will not to take wheat if it has had a late foliar urea application.”

Other nutrients Adequate levels of phosphate and potash are essential to avoid growth checks and soil indices of around 2 need to be maintained to ensure optimum Nitrogen utilisation, suggests Mr Leadbeater.

“Without this, the plant will not be able to use the nitrogen efficiently and both yield and quality are likely to suffer if these nutrients aren’t in balance.

Most wheat crops destined for premium markets are also likely to require additional sulphur.”

“Ideally, applications should be made at the start of March at growth stage 14-25 with the best way of getting both early N and S on to the crop being a true granular NS compound such as DoubleTop (27N + 30SO3) or SingleTop (27N + 12SO3).”

Adjust timing and frequency to improve nitrogen efficiency, says Ross Leadbeater.

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Crop storage Traders warn of ‘hiccups’ as UK gets to grips with Brexit • Tariff-free grain imports and exports • Wheat buoyant after Brexit transition • Production expected to bounce back

G

rain merchants are warning of hiccups following the trade deal agreed between London and Brussels relating to the movement of goods between the UK and European Union.

The last minute trade deal was announced on 24 December – just one week before the end of the Brexit transition period. ADM Agriculture head of grain trading Jonathan Lane said the agreement had at least clarified the relationship between the UK and EU. “With no tariffs or quotas to be applied, grain imports and exports can continue freely,” he said.

“This is seen as a positive move for the UK, given its increasing dependency on imports for this season due to the lower crop forecast. There have been, and will be, hiccups but in practice imports and exports should continue.”

Mr Lane said the agreement would aid UK growers looking to market their 2021 wheat crop. An expected rebound in production would return the UK to

being a net exporter – but tariff-free exports to the EU would avoid the need for the UK to chase trade with third countries.

This would have affected farm prices, said Mr Lane.

Market report A Defra update on its 2020 UK crop estimates pegged wheat production at 9.658 million tonnes. This 40% year-on-

The UK is expected to return to being a grain exporter later this year

year reduction is due to a 24% drop in area (1.387mln ha) and poor harvest averaging just below 7t/ha.

Talk of diminishing export availability in the Black Sea has supported a rallying grain market last month.

Grain prices were considerably higher, with the US market up $18/t, Matif up €10/t, and London up just over £10/t on March 21 positions. continued on p20

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Crop storage continued from p19 Prices were also buoyed by demand in interest from China and concerns over South American corn and soybean production due to dryness. Talk suggests reduced South American output could push additional export demand into the US. Meanwhile, Argentina announced it was suspending sales of corn for exports until 28 February. Mr Lane said the surprising move was part of efforts by the Buenos Aires government to ensure ample domestic food supplies.

Downgrade Closer to home, Russian agency SovEcon downgraded its estimate for Russia’s 2020/21 wheat exports to 36.3mln t from 40.8mln t previously. The revision was due to an upcoming export tax aimed at stabilising domestic food prices.

Conversely, Ukraine’s trade union has reported government assurances that no additional grain export limits will be imposed for the 2020/21 season.

Egypt’s supply minister reports the country has strategic wheat reserves sufficient for 5.5 months. But Morocco has extended its suspension of im-

“

Without tariffs, grain imports and exports can continue freely

port duties on soft wheat until 31 May to ensure regular supply amid low domestic output.

Oilseed rape In terms of oilseeds, an interesting start to the new year saw Chicago Board of Trade soybeans making new highs in every session. Prices shot though the $13 target at the end of 2020, to trade over $13.50 in the first few days following the Christmas break.

Again the market was supported by dry weather in South America. Matif rapeseed started the year by trading at contract highs and continued to do so for the past four sessions. Canadian canola also traded higher for six straight sessions.

UK rapeseed prices hit season highs. Investors turned attentions from the Brexit deal and focused on escalating Covid 19 cases and renewed lockdowns. Sterling fell back from recent highs against the euro, which lent support to UK prices.

Storage grant details expected later this year Grants of up to £35,000 are expected to be available for crop storage, sorting and processing when Defra’s Farm Investment Fund launches later this year.

Announced last autumn, the fund is expected to open for applications in December, with more information expected this spring. It will be made available as the direct payments scheme is phased out over the coming years.

The government says it wants to encourage the industry to increase productivity in an environmentally sustainable way – so farmers can be profitable and sustainable without needing direct payments.

It says the fund will provide grants to farmers, foresters, growers and related contractors so they can invest in equipment, technology, and infrastructure that will improve their profitability and benefit the environment.

All grants will be part funded by the farmer or land manager. The new scheme will be based on Countryside Productivity Scheme, with a similar application process. It will include an Expression of Interest element for higher value investments.

The scheme will be competitive, with higher-scoring applications more likely to succeed. Guidance will set out how applications will be appraised. The scheme will have two strands – for lower and higher value investments, each with a different application process.

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Crop storage

Beware of rodents attacking precious straw stacks • Keep at-risk areas free from debris • Monitor rodent populations regularly • Use rodenticides where appropriate

R

odents are out in force again this winter and farmers are being urged to protect straw stacks amid tight supplies.

The poor 2020 harvest means growers and livestock producers should adopt a pro-active approach to protecting straw bales from rodents seeking cover, harbourage and winter feed, says Bayer national account manager Ken Black.

“Thorough rodent control is going to be especially vital this winter,” he says. Straw prices are up by over 40% on this time last year, according to the Agriculture and Horticulture Devel-

opment Board, reflecting limited availability.

Three-point plan Mr Black suggests a three-point plan to keep rodents out of the straw shed this winter. First, producers should ensure the area around the shed is free from debris and undergrowth. Secondly, they should monitor for rodents and pinpoint any areas of high activity.

“Farmers can visually monitor for signs of activity by checking for droppings, footprints and chewed bales or string or they can place perimeter bait boxes around the shed with grain in, to monitor

for signs of rodent feeding activity,” he says.

The third and final course of action is to use rodenticides. “Remember, that anyone purchasing and applying these treatments must have appropriate qualifications and adhere to guidelines set out by the Campaign for Responsible Rodenticide Use, which is a requirement of farm assurance.”

Formulations When it comes to selecting the appropriate rodenticide, the same active ingredient can be found in several different formulations, for example, in blocks or grain. Typically for a farm environment. a combination of both baits offers Rodenticide guidelines the most successmust be strictly followed, ful control. says Ken Black The selected for-

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Farmers should monitor for signs of rodent activity

mulation should aim to give the best chance of bait uptake. Rodenticide resistance to the active ingredients bromodialone and difenacoumn is a growing problem so any decision on which to use comes back to your knowledge of the particular site.

“

Rodent control is going to be especially vital this winter

“Blocks can be fastened in place and therefore minimise the risk of contamination, but they’re not necessarily as palatable as a soft block or paste. Grain baits are however usually a popular choice in the farm environment as it’s often similar to the food source on the farm.

“Rodent populations are high again this year and with straw a very valuable asset this winter, it’s important producers take an integrated approach by physically clearing the at-risk areas, by monitoring populations and applying rodenticides where appropriate.”

Include storage protocols in bird flu measures Farmers storing grain and other animal feeds are being reminded to assess biosecurity measures against bird flu.

This winter has seen a number of confirmed bird flu cases – both in commercial poultry flocks and in wild birds. Without thorough protocols in place, feed stores and deliveries can create a vulnerable point for disease transmission.

“Avian flu is spread through bodily fluids, so any situation where traces of faeces from wild birds come into contact with feed, or areas where hens peck, represents an opportunity for disease to be introduced to a flock,” says Fred Liddell, poultry specialist at Wynnstay.

Although most feed lorries are thoroughly hot washed and disinfected as they exit the mill, there is potential for

vehicles to become contaminated on the journey. “This is why it is essential for poultry producers to have a biosecurity protocol in place for feed deliveries.”

Mr Liddell advises setting up a vehicle disinfection point for all sizes of visiting vehicles near to the farm entrance and away from any feed bins.

Similarly, any spillages outside sheds and storage places should be cleaned up immediately to prevent attracting wild birds.

“There shouldn’t be any spilt feed beneath the feed bins, so frequently check the seals and replace any that are broken. General hygiene around the feed storage area is crucial. Regular cleaning of the concrete pads beneath the feed bins will prevent a build-up of feed dust or dirt.”

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FEBRUARY 2021 • MIDLAND FARMER 23

Crop storage

Real-time grain measurement can sort crops more quickly • Smart sensor in-field technology • Instant feedback on grain quality • Good for farms and environment

F

armers could benefit from new harvesting technology that will sense grain quality in real time – using smart sensors often found in medical devices.

The technology is being developed by a team of agricultural industry partners alongside academic expertise from Reading University. It will give farmers instant feedback on the quality of grains such as wheat, barley and oilseed rape.

If successful, it will enable grain protein and oil contents to be measured as they are harvested by the combine harvester. Called Constituent Sensing of Small Grains, it is being funded by the European Institute of Innovation & Technology (EIT) Food.

Robust measurements The project is being led by professor of crop science John Hammond. As well as providing important information about the marketing of the grains, the data would enable farmers to create maps of their fields to understand variation in grain quality, he said.

Prof Hammond explained: “Based on the wavelengths detected and calibration models, it is possible to quickly The technology is being developed by Reading University and John Deere

24 MIDLAND FARMER • FEBRUARY 2021

and robustly measure many aspects of the grain’s constituents, such as protein or oil content.”

The project is using Near Infrared Spectroscopy to measure the quality of the grain samples being harvested. Analysers work by emitting a spectrum of near infrared wavelengths at the grain sample and then measures the wavelengths reflected or transmitted through the grain.

Grain stores “This technology has been used for decades on farms and grain stores to check the quality of harvested products, but only on small sub-samples,” said Prof Hammond.

“We are working with John Deere, who is already known to offer a robust NIRS sensor for forage harvesters, manure tankers and as a stationary unit, to test and validate this technology.”

The smart sensors being developed in the project will continuously measure grain as it flows through the combine harvester providing data on the grain as it is harvested. The team is working on connecting this data with GPS location during harvest.

“

It is possible to measure many aspects of grain quality

Better marketing This will allow field scale maps to be developed showing how the grain quality varies across the field. Prof Hammond said data would provide a more accurate measures of grain quality for marketing purposes.

Potentially allowing different grain qualities to be separated and sold into different markets in the future. The field scale map can be used to optimise production, allowing resources to be focused on unproductive areas of fields and/or reduce inputs to more productive areas.

John Deere technology expert Thomas Engel said the project could help increase productivity, reduce costs and help reduce the environmental impact of agriculture. It would be good for farmers and end users.

“Measuring grain constituents like protein during harvesting on the combine is another important puzzle piece of precision farming technology, moving us towards a sustainable production of high quality grain.”

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www.meadowq.co.uk FEBRUARY 2021 • MIDLAND FARMER 25

Crop storage

Standards are key to vibrant UK cereals sector – NFU leader Lower standard imported wheat should not be used in British-baked bread sold in Union Jack packaging, NFU president Minette Batters (pictured right) has warned.

Calling for an end to what she described as hypocrisy on grain standards, Mrs Batters told the Association of Independent Crop Consultants (AICC) annual conference that maintaining

UK production values was key to a vibrant UK cereals sector post-Brexit.

The UK imported a significant tonnage of grain produced to lower standards, she told 200 delegates attending the online event. In the case of milling wheat, it could make it into bread loaves in packaging emblazoned with a Union Jack flag.

Mrs Batters said the practice was

leaving growers frustrated that high standard wheat wasn’t getting the brand recognition it deserved through assurance schemes such as Red Tractor.

A reformed Red Tractor was still the right vehicle to deliver that brand recognition, she added. But it should perhaps include bread packaging with the percentage of home grain grains used in its production.

Want to know the latest wheat prices? Just ask Alexa...

W

heat futures prices available via Amazon smart speakers are increasingly popular thanks to a new Alexa skill developed

by Openfield.

Farmers wanting to know how wheat futures are doing have been able to do so since last autumn. They can also Ask Alexa to find out the value of their Openfield Crop Fund and how their loading schedule is looking – and listen to any chat messages which have been received.

Openfield head of IT Michael Goodyear said: “Our in-house technology team has worked with farmers to deliver our innovative new App and a brand new way to interact with Openfield using Alexa.”

He added: “We’re proud of the depth of information available and we’re already working on some fantastic enhancements, including price alerts and a new fertiliser selector tool which will be added very soon.”

“

We’re proud of the depth of information available

The Openfield App includes many favourites from Openfield’s Farmer Portal, Insight including access to contracts, loading schedules, Track My Truck, Futures prices, a handy chat function and the seed selector.

Accessible on a tablet or smartphone farmers can view three years’ worth of account details, including movement periods, contract prices and tonnage.

Transport schedules The loading schedule brings up a smart way to view all planned collections, including variety, tonnage, timing and 26 MIDLAND FARMER • FEBRUARY 2021

Openfield now offers wheat price updates by Amazon’s smart speaker

haulage contact details. This ensures all the information needed is available for each and every collection helping farmers to plan their time more effectively.

Track My Truck allows farmers to anticipate when a lorry, which is using Openfield’s tracking tool, is on its way to the farm. This feature allows growers to set email or text alerts, informing them exactly how far away a collection is from their farm.

Latest information This means farmers can pinpoint where the driver is and ensure everything is ready to make the collection as quick and efficient as possible.

Producers can access the London wheat futures and send chat messages so the Openfield team can react quickly to any questions.

Openfield’s seed selector is a simple to use interactive tool. It enables farmers to select seed varieties by answering a few quick questions.

The Openfield App is now available from App Store or Google Play by searching for Openfield Insight.

Lower profits ‘in line with expectations’ Openfield says a 20% drop in annual profits for the year to 30 June 2020 was in line with expectations. The company reported profits of £400,000 compared to £500,000 for 2019 – but said it performed well for its members ahead of the challenging 2020 harvest.

As a result, profit was impacted by the restructure of its operations and investment in new logistics software and systems that will reduce future costs and further improve member service.

Export potential The 2019 harvest produced a larger wheat crop than in recent years which created export potential,

whilst the good quality crop reduced imports to a minimum. The barley crop saw Openfield’s highest export volumes for four years with vessels going to Saudi Arabia.

The 2019 crop year also saw the continuing reduction of the oilseed rape crop resulting in the largest imports on record. Total exported volumes for 2019 crop reached a four year high at 912,000 tonnes.

Openfield chairman Philip Moody said: “I’m very pleased to see Openfield continuing to deliver sustained profitability. We have proactively restructured our operations to prepare for a small crop year in 2020.

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Crop storage

Extra power as more Loadalls get DualTech variable transmission

J

CB is launching a new range of Loadall telescopic handlers featuring more powerful engines – and offering its DualTech Variable Transmission on additional models.

The transmission combines hydrostatic drive for low speeds and powershift mechanical direct drive at faster speeds for better performance and versatility. It can now be specified for AgriSuper versions, as well as the smallest full-size Loadall – the 532-60.

More accessible JCB agriculture managing director John Smith said: “DualTech VT has been immensely successful and popular in our top-spec agricultural Loadall and now we are making it more accessible to a wider range of farm businesses.”

User experience and telematics data showed that the DualTech transmission increased productivity and improved fuel efficiency, said Mr Smith.

The latest Loadalls are powered by 4.8-litre JCB 448 DieselMAX engines with a compact package of exhaust after-treatment technologies to meet EU Stage V emissions compliance and power outputs that relate to the Agri, AgriSuper and AgriXtra specification levels.

In Agri models, the engine has unchanged power and torque ratings.

But for AgriXtra models, the engine also has an additional 5hp (4kW) at 150hp (112kW) – and a 7% increase in peak torque at 600Nm for livelier performance.

“It’s also a pleasure to use and really does offer the ‘best of both worlds’ characteristics of hydrostatic and powershift drive.”

AgriExtra Loadall models boast more power and torque

EU regulations “These proven engines have been equipped to meet the latest exceptionally stringent EU particulate matter and NOx levels while eliminating exhaust gas recirculation and the variable geometry turbocharger, which has been replaced by a simpler electronically-controlled wastegate turbo.”

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Animal health Antibiotic targets seek to build on previous success

Proper hygiene is important during lambing and calving

• Livestock sector achieves big reductions • Usage still too high among some farmers • Achievable goal with proactive approach

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ew targets to encourage the responsible use of antibiotics in UK livestock have been agreed by farmers and veterinary experts for the next four years.

The new goals build on the successful implementation of the last targets released in 2017. Overall, these have helped to halve sales of antibiotics to treat UK farm animals and achieve the fifth-lowest usage in Europe, with only Nordic countries lower.

While specific reduction goals have not been set for beef and sheep, the aim is that the dairy and calf rearing sectors will reduce usage by 15% and 25% respectively across the national herd by 2024 as data become available.

Other sectors aiming to reduce antibiotics as a result of farm-level interventions include the pig sector. It plans to decrease usage by a further 30% by 2024 – with the gamebird sector aiming for a 40% reduction.

sponded extremely well to the targets,” she explained.

“Our original aim of lowering overall antibiotic use, and in particular highest-priority critically important antibiotics (HP-CIAs), has been categorically achieved in the face of some challenging external conditions.”

Refreshed challenge Details of the targets are included in a report by the Responsible Use of Medicines in Agriculture (RUMA) Alliance.

It represents all stages of the animal food chain from farm to fork that have an interest in the stewardship of animal medicines in agriculture.

The report covers 10 sectors across aquaculture, pigs, poultry and ruminants. For the first time, calf rearing is examined in isolation in order to focus in on the specific health and welfare interventions that will reduce the need for antibiotic treatments.

With over 75% of the original targets now achieved early or on track to be achieved by the deadline, the time was right to set refreshed challenges for the next four years, says RUMA chair Cat McLaughlin.

“The UK farming industry has re-

“

Sizeable reductions Most farmed livestock sectors are now capturing data on antibiotic use across 90% or more of their animal. Even where usage data is lacking but good sales data are available, for example in cattle and sheep, sizeable reductions have been achieved.

But Ms McLaughlin says the overall picture in terms of use in the large and diverse cattle and sheep sectors is still lacking. This is why targets for 2024 include the collection of data into the new AHDB Medicine Hub, a UK centralised database for ruminants.

Farmers have responded extremely well to the targets

Targets across the ruminant sectors also include a focus on disease prevention and herd and flock health planning, with plans to develop a new network of farm vet champions..

Among other activities, the pig sector is promoting best-practice guidelines to reduce post-weaning diarrhoea, a common cause of antibiotic use, and will be identifying and supporting reductions among any farmers using higher levels of antibiotics within the sector.

The poultry meat sector has achieved significant reductions in recent years, and joins laying hens in hold their targets at current levels. Preventative use has been phased out completely.

Prioritise hygiene to meet targets Good hygiene practices will help livestock farmers meet antibiotic reduction targets, says experts.

“If we are to continue to cut our use of antibiotics, the highest hygiene levels are needed, especially during lambing and calving,” says vet Dan Humphries from Horizon Dairy Vets. Postnatal diseases occur on livestock units largely due to a lack of hygiene, he adds.

“Focusing on animal husbandry and using products that minimise risk at key times, such as lambing and calving, will help farmers reduce costs and antibiotic use,” says Mr Humphries. “Any equipment should be kept in a solution of disinfectant when not being used.”

A solution of 1:250 of disinfectant is advised to store items such as water bowls, teats and milk dispensers, adds Mr Humphries.

Attention to detail For lambing and calving, the hygienic preparation of sheds and pens will reduce the likelihood of postnatal diseases. Pressure washing using detergent before spraying with a disinfectant will help to eliminate bacteria, viruses, and other micro-organisms.

“Attention to detail, preparation, and routines will help reduce the risk of infection and reduce costly losses. This will also reduce any subsequent reliance on antibiotics which will help the whole livestock sector in the UK improve animal welfare.”

About one third of losses in lowland sheep flocks occur in the neonatal period and most are the result of diseases that can be prevented by keeping the shed or lambing area clean and disinfected, according to BASF rural hygiene specialist Helen Ainsworth.

FEBRUARY 2021 • MIDLAND FARMER 29

Animal health

Students scoop Farm Health Management Award

Catriona Marshall: winning essay

Harper Adams student was among three students to beat off a bumper number of entries and win this year’s Royal Association of British Dairy Farmers Farm Health Management Award.

Sponsored by Volac, the awards aim to demonstrate and test the students’ knowledge on the importance of proactive farm health management. Each candidate had to submit a 1,500-word essay with the winners taking home a £500 cash prize.

Second-year student Catriona Marshall from Harper Adams University, scooped the trophy in the agricultural university category. She is studying Agriculture with Animal Science and hails from a dairy farm.

Ms Marshall currently milks cows on a local dairy farm. She hopes building her knowledge on farm health management will help with her future farm work and studies.

Other winners were Emily Eaton of Liverpool Vet School’s and Martha Richards of Duchy College.

The essays were judged by a panel featuring RABDF council member and Gelli Aur College farm manager John Owen; veterinary surgeon Dan Griffiths; and dairy consultant and awards chairman John Sumner.

The quality of entries this year was some of the best ever, said Mr Sumner, who has judged the competition since it began in 2007. “In all three categories, the winners and runners up were very hard to separate, almost interchangeable,” he added.

“Catriona wrote a well analysed and very relevant essay; Emily’s essay took a practical approach with innovative ideas and Martha introduced SMART objectives, which went beyond the farm gate.”

Dairy pregnancy test helps optimise milk margins

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year-round calving dairy herd in Staffordshire is averaging 11,500 litres per lactation after switching to a new pregnancy test to optimise margins.

John Holdcroft runs a 200-cow pedigree Holstein herd in a family partnership near Burton on Trent. “We’ve adopted a relatively high input, high output strategy in order to fulfil our objective – to maximise its performance and in turn, achieve profit,” he explains.

Maintaining herd fertility is important, explains Mr Holdcroft, who switched to the new pregnancy test after too many cows were returning to service. “We’re aware that every open day costs money, however having said that we don’t like to push our cows too hard.”

Milk recording Mr Holdcroft says he used to present about 25 cows to the vet each month – many of which were bit suspicious about not being in calf. But he was already milk recording – so three years ago he started to use the PregnancyAssociated Glycoproteins milk pregnancy test.

“We use the milk test over the entire herd at 40 days after service or at the 30 MIDLAND FARMER • FEBRUARY 2021

nearest milk recording. It’s straightforward and non-invasive. Around three days later, we receive a text message from NMR when the results are ready for log in.”

Results are returned as positive, negative or recheck. “Those results help us to identify cows that would have escaped our attention. Nowadays we are presenting to the vet each month just 10 to 12 animals, those that have PAG tested either negative or recheck.”

Cost-effective The vet investigates if there is an issue. If there is, the Holdcrofts are able to treat accordingly and then quickly rebreed. “Since then we’ve found it is proving to be over 95% accurate,” says Mr Holdcroft. “We rate it to be cost effective.”

The PAG test complements the unit’s heat detection system. Pedometers are checked twice a day. If they pick up any animal not showing by 100 days post calving, then she is presented to the vet at the next visit too.

Apart from helping to increase performance efficiency, Mr Holdcroft says the milk test is improving herd welfare and saving time and labour – particularly when there is less available help

The pregnancyassociated glycoproteins milk pregnancy test has improved herd performance, says John Holdcroft

on the farm.

Mr Holdcroft says: “Fertility will remain a challenge in a high input high output herd, however I’m relatively relaxed towards tightening up the calving index which stands at 410 days. I’d be satisfied if PAG continues to help the trend and reduce to a targeted 400 days.”

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FEBRUARY 2021 • MIDLAND FARMER 31

Animal health

Project aims to reduce and treat pain in lame dairy cows

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new project to recognise and treat pain in lame dairy cows has been launched by veterinary group Vet Partners.

The Project Feet initiative aims to better understand attitudes within the sector towards recognising and treating pain by the entire herd management team – including farmers, foot trimmers, veterinary technicians and vets.

About one in four dairy cows may be experiencing some degree of lameness at any one time, according to the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board. Contributory factors include poor cattle housing, hard surfaces, ineffective foot trimming and poor nutrition.

The average cost – in terms of treatmen, loss of yield and potential for shortened productive life – may be about £180 per

Lameness in dairy cows requires more attention, says vet Emily Craven

cow. At current levels, this equates to almost £15,000 for an average-sized herd.

Elephant in the room Project Feet was founded and developed by a team led by Norfolk vet and ruminant specialist Emily Craven, of the Oakwood Veterinary Group, Harleston. It will focus on the treatment and management of lame cows, she said.

“Lameness in dairy owners remains the ‘elephant in the room’ where we know the national prevalence is high – but we are often guilty of thinking of it as someone else’s problem,” said Ms Craven.

“It is a welfare issue for cows, a perception issue for dairy farming and is something that we need to collectively take ownership of.”

Survey Reducing lameness takes two approaches – treating and managing lame cows; and preventing new cases. Ms Craven said the project was inviting people who work with lame dairy cows to complete a short survey.

The anonymous survey aims to uncover what people think of certain conditions and how to approach the treatment of various diseases. It takes about 10 minutes to complete and all completed entries will go into a prize draw to win £100 in shopping vouchers.

VetPartners farm director Ian Cure said: “Lameness is something that directly effects on-farm efficiency for all our dairy clients. By working together to improve mobility and foot health, we also reduce the risk of other diseases, such as mastitis and transition diseases.”

For survey details and to take part, visit bit.ly/ProjectFeet

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MPs warn of critical shortage in veterinary inspectors

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Ps have warned of a vet shortage following the end of free movement to the UK from the European Union.

The House of Commons Environment Food and Rural Affairs select committee highlighted the issue following an inquiry into labour in the food supply chain. More vets are needed due to additional veterinary certification requirements following the Brexit transition period.

Overseas-trained vets had an important role working as official veterinarians in the UK, said the committee. They were an important part of the food supply chain, in this case working as inspectors in abattoirs that were unattractive to UK-trained vets.

“Official veterinarians face an increase in their workload due to increased checks on exports as a result

of Brexit. These factors – and the veterinary training required, risk a situation where there is insufficient veterinary labour, without which animal products cannot be cleared for export.”

The British Veterinary Association gave evidence to the committee last autumn. It also released a report warning of a “triple whammy” facing the veterinary sector due to Brexit, the Covid-19 pandemic and the threat of disease outbreaks such as avian influenza.

BVA president James Russell said: “BVA has been raising concerns about the impact of Brexit on veterinary ca- The shortage ply chain and facilitating internationpacity since the referendum. We are of overseas al trade in a way that protects animal very worried about the impact on our vets could health and welfare and public health. members who are already working hard impact the “It has long been known that the UK UK livestock ads.qxp_Layout 1 16/05/2019 09:06 Pageveterinary 16 during a difficult period.” profession relies heavily on sector Mr Russell added: “We welcome EU-trained vets, particularly in public the committee’s understanding of the health roles, and it is vital that immicritical role vets have in the food supgration policies reflect that fact.”

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FEBRUARY 2021 • MIDLAND FARMER 33

Animal health

Roadmap to tackle endemic disease will ‘deliver real benefits’

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overnment plans to invest in better animal health and welfare will deliver real benefits, say veterinary medicine manufacturers.

The roadmap outlines changes that will come into force over a period of seven years to help farmers adapt and plan for the future. It will start with an initial focus on endemic diseases among cattle, sheep and pigs.

The aim is to ensure farmers can produce healthy food sustainably and without subsidy – while taking steps to improve animal health and welfare.

The goal is to achieve this by 2028 – by which time direct payments will have been phased out to farmers.

Dawn Howard, chief executive of the National Office for Animal Health said the plan echoed the industry body’s own vision paper. She added: “This will deliver benefits in terms of welfare, productivity, sustainability and resilience of farms.”

Ms Howard said NOAH was pleased to see a timetable for the government’s Animal Health and Welfare Pathway for England. But she said it was impor-

tant to encourage meaningful co-operation between the devolved nations because “disease knows no borders”.

NOAH’s vision paper proposes a holistic approach to improve livestock health, animal welfare and farm businesses. And it suggests incentivising farmers to introduce endemic disease control programmes and support for vaccination.

Ms Howard said: “Vaccination is one key tool that can be used in the push to tackle endemic disease. Livestock vaccines prevent and protect against harmful disease and are an evidenced-based way to secure world leading standards in animal health and welfare.

“They are vital tools that should be harnessed at a population level and implemented into the management protocols of all livestock farms, supporting them to be proactive and progressive and forming a part of each farm health plan.”

NOAH argues that this commitment to reduce disease will help further support in the farming sector to the challenge of reducing the need for

antibiotics in livestock production as it continues to play its part in the fight against antimicrobial resistance.

“Professional development of farmers is also important,” said Ms Howard.

“As Defra’s plans for support for improved animal health and welfare are published, NOAH is pleased to see that over 500 UK farmers have already committed to raising standards by completing our Animal Medicines Best Practice training.”

Vaccination is a key tool against endemic disease, says Dawn Howard.

Three new bolus products have been launched by the Denis Brinicombe Group to reduce the risk of micronutrient imbalances in grazing and forage fed cattle.

The EnduraBol boluses – Biotin, Pre-Calver and Organic – aim to meet the needs of cattle over 150kg through the sustained release of nutrients to optimise a healthy hoof structure, support calving and improve performance.

Biotin for hoof structure provides up to four months supplementation of six trace elements: cobalt, selenium, copper, manganese, iodine, and zinc as well as three key vitamins. It also delivers about 20mg of daily biotin to reduce lameness by optimising the hoof horn structure keratinisation.

Denis Brinicombe Group managing director Keith Greig says: “Evidence from studies shows that cows supplemented with this level of biotin per day had better locomotion while helping high yielding dairy cows reach their potential.”

34 MIDLAND FARMER • FEBRUARY 2021

Photo credit: Tim Scrivener

New bolus range expands with three extra products

Pre-Calver contains the same trace elements and vitamins, but in levels tailored to pre- and post-calving cows and heifers. It delivers these micronutrients for up to four months, to support the cow either side of calving and optimise post-calving recovery for future fertility.

The cattle boluses provide a range of important trace elements

The Organic bolus supplies the six essential trace elements for up to six months to maximise production and performance potential of beef and dairy cattle. Each pack contains a 10cow supply of boluses which can be administered using a recommended applicator.

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Special edition as Spearhead celebrates 20 years of Multicut See p38

Machinery

Global engine makers team up to produce new range • Reliable, cost-effective engine • Goal is to ‘close gap in market’ • Low power range is the target

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achinery giants John Deere Power Systems and Deutz have teamed up to jointly develop and source components for a new low horsepower range engine.

The two companies say they will be able to close a gap in the market by developing an efficient 130kW (175hp) engine for customers – while retaining the reliability, versatility and performance farmers expect from John Deere and Deutz engines.

John Deere and Deutz bring different perspectives and capabilities to the table. The two companies believe the collaboration can broaden their supply base and benefit from global scale – ultimately translating to increased market and customer value.

Co-development and co-sourcing will include engine hardware and design. Each company will then customise its product to meet customers’ spe-

cific needs through engine software and controls. They will also manufacture and distribute the engines independently.

Industry leaders “John Deere and Deutz are both industry leaders in designing and manufacturing innovative power systems,” said Pierre Guyot, senior vice-president, John Deere Power Systems.

“Through combining our complementary knowledge sets and focus areas, we are excited to offer John Deere and Deutz customers a reliable, cost-effective engine option in the low horsepower range.”

Deutz chief executive Frank Hiller said the fact that John Deere chose Deutz as a collaborator for the engine project underlined the company’s strong position in off-road engine applications.

The new engine range is aimed at lower powered machines

He added: “This collaboration is an important step in establishing a business relationship between the two companies. We are very excited about the opportunity to join forces with an industry leader like John Deere, thereby creating value for our customers.”

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Signs of recovery in tractor sales after decline Tractor sales are showing signs of recovery after poor weather and the coronavirus pandemic saw registrations decline last year.

Sales of new tractors fell by 14.3% in the Midlands during 2020, according to annual figures released by the Agricultural Engineers Association. Some 1173 tractors were sold in the region during the year compared to

1369 tractors in 2019.

But the market appears to be bouncing back. Some 776 tractors over 50hp were sold during December 2020 – a figure 25% higher than the same month in 2019. The AEA said it expected the recovery to continue during the first quarter of 2021.

The sharpest fall in 2020 was in the home counties (41% down),

with south-west England and Northern Ireland seeing declines of over 20%. But the rate of decline was smaller in the north of England and Wales. Only southeast England saw a slight rise in registrations.

The decline in registrations was seen across most of the power range, apart from the top and bottom. The number of compact

tractors (50hp and under) being registered rose slightly and there was also a rise among machines at the other end of the range.

In all, 25% more tractors over 320hp were registered in 2020 than in 2019. There was a modest fall among machines over 200hp but all broad power bands below that level (and above 50hp) saw year-on-year falls of 15-20%.

FEBRUARY 2021 • MIDLAND FARMER 37

Midland Machinery

Special edition as Spearhead celebrates 20 years of Multicut

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otary mower manufacturer Spearhead Machinery has launched a special model to mark the 20th birthday of the Multicut 460.

The company says the Spearhead Multicut 460 Y20 delivers the best-ever specification at a celebratory price.

It says the machine saves time behind the wheel while delivering a superior cut – improving pasture quality.

Presented in Y20 grey, the special edition model includes more features than the standard 460 model – but at a similar price. It includes a new, more robust 165HP gearbox, covered by a complimentary five-year warranty.

A further standard inclusion is a six-blade Starcut Knife system. Usually seen on top models, this ensures the Y20 delivers superior cutting than the standard three blades – cutting at

least 10ha per hour.

The mulch is much smaller – effectively below 60mm – speeding up breakdown, while the spread is said to be more even. Finally, the Y20 model offers a fuel saving of up to 60% compared to fixed knife systems.

The popular Multicut machine celebrates its 20th anniversary this year

Machinery world pays tribute to Helmut Claas Tributes have poured in to agricultural machinery pioneer and Claas chairman Helmut Claas, who died aged 94 on 5 January.

Described as one of agricultural engineering’s most significant businessmen, Mr Claas took the familynamed firm from a small business em-

ploying 100 people to a muti-national global company with a workforce of 11,500.

Born in 1926 in Germany, He remained first first and for most a farmer. He farmed in East Anglia and often stayed there with his wife Erika. He counted other local farmers among his

friends and had a passion for hunting.

During his time at the helm of Claas, he oversaw the development of the Lexion combine harvester, the Jaguar forage harvester and the Xerion tractor. Today, Claas is one of the most arm machinery manufacturers in the world.

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FINAL SAY Clodhopper

Dishing the dirt on muddy roads As farmers and contractors, we all have a responsibility to keep rural roads clean, says Clodhopper

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ud on the road during the winter months is an occupational hazard for farmers – and this year seems to be worse than most.

I’ve had plenty of experience when it comes to muddy country lanes. Luckily, there are only two main roads for me to cross within five miles of our main farm. But the minor road through our local village has always proved tricky.

In the past, any mud on the road was usually blamed on me because I was the only farmer in the village. My root crops were usually lifted by end of September. If this was delayed into October, extra manpower was used – armed with spades, brushes, water and lots of elbow grease.

Over the years, my relationship with the local parish council – or one particular parish councillor in particular – has been interesting to say the least. His intention was always to cast

blame, no matter how well the roads were cleaned.

These days, farmers and contractors now cover a much wider area than in the past – and mud on the road seems to be more common. I’m semiretired, but I still have a lot of sympathy with any farming business that needs to remove root crops and maintain a viable business.

Danger to life I have no problem if attempts are made to clean roads. But often no attempt is made at all – with no regard for the safety of other road users of the local population. Our village road remains deep in mud with the minor road nearly impassable without fourwheel drive.

So who takes responsibility? Clearly no-one at the moment. But should it be the responsibility of the local farming company or their contractors?

If you are lucky enough to speak with the drivers, the usual answer is speak to the boss. But he is desk bound 50 miles away and clearly neither cares for nor understands local people. And so local people blame the local farmer.

This seems to be the case even though there is a local construction site two miles up the road where dif-

ferent rules apply. There the road is also covered in mud, but with the added inconvenience of construction vehicles parked all over the place.

No defence Do builders not understand that people need access to their proprieties? Must they really park in the middle of the road blocking all access and instead expect dear old grandma to move her old Fiesta within an inch of the 10ft drain?

In my mind, everyone should do everything they can to prevent mud from being deposited on the highway. It can be fatal even when travelling at a reasonable speed. Arguing in court that cleaning mud off your tractor is inconvenient just won’t wash.

Don’t worry – I haven’t suddenly become anti farming. It’s just that we all need to be more careful and considerate towards other people. And don’t get me started on the condition of trailers, vehicle lights and roadside signs.

Using high-sided unstable trailers to cart root crops is unforgivable. So too is driving a vehicle without lights – even if getting to the main yard only involves turning left. And roadside signs warning of mud are often non-existent.

We all need to up our game.

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