April 2016 Farming Monthly National by Farming Monthly Ltd

INSIDE: Maximising the performance of lambs page 42

Farming

MONTHLY National

April 2016

Also in this issue... Feature

Field Lab

| Wastewater treatment company’s global expansion page 9

| Yield increases from compost teas on organic arable farm page 10 Pig & Poultry

| Pig & Poultry Fair set to be 10% bigger page 36

Greener for longer Also inside this month..

| is key to yield building page 12

‘££ Quads in’ with Polaris p63

Potato potential p19

Wolf CHP excels p33

CONTENTS April 2016

FEATURES 19

12 Arable Boosting wheat yields & more..

21 Root Crops 10yrs research into sustainable resistance

46 Fencing

58 Forestry

Dragon EstateWIRE, Creosoted fencing

48 Buildings

Tree diversity for forest ecology

60 Tyres

CDM regulations, Cembrit build for the future

BKT celebrate website anniversary, Tyre investment for Simon Jackson

27 Grass & Silage ScotGrass 2016, Silage pitfalls & more..

36 Muck & Slurry Latest news..

38 Pig & Poultry Pig & Poultry â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;16, Falklands poultry health

41 Livestock Beef Expoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;16, Parasite control & more..

44 Sheep & Lambing Maximising performance of lambs

04 | Farming Monthly | April 2016

REGULARS 06 News All the latest news this month

10 On Topic Yield increases from compost teas

32 Energy Edie Live, Wolf CHP power

50 Machinery Latest news

63 ATV ATV news...covered.

68 Motors Including Jeep Renegade Trailhawk review

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Agriculture. Covered. EDITOR Andrew Poulton editor@farmingmonthly.com EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES editorial@farmingmonthly.com ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Tel: +44 (0) 2476 353537 Advertising Director: Shona Beedham s.beedham@farmingmonthly.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Julie Smith j.smith@farmingmonthly.com Phil Barry p.barry@farmingmonthly.com ACCOUNTING Accounts Payable Manager: Cheryl Arnold c.arnold@farmingmonthly.com DESIGN & PRODUCTION studio@farmingmonthly.com

From the Editor... Yields, yields, yields. The never ending pursuit of increased yields will never abate. Of course, there are many facets to consider when aiming for more, more, more. In this issue, you’ll find items on improving yields which address the issue in different ways - be that new techniques, research, disease management and the like. There’s performance advice on sheep and livestock too. There’s always plenty of variety in Farming Monthly National and this month is no exception. From root crops to grass & silage, livestock to buildings and tyres - and all the usual ATV & motors sections, there’s a little something for everyone. As we go forward, we will be further enhancing our digital delivery of the magazine which will include additional stories, items and sections that just won’t fit into these pages - all the more reason to check out our digital versions and perhaps download our App Edition - yes...it’s currently free...so don’t delay! We’ll report more about our developments in

due course right here - we have some great plans to tell you about! Why not tell us what you would like to see email us with your stories, tips and opinions...contact us on editorial@farmingmonthly.com or visit our website to get in touch. Prefer to get in touch via social media? No problem - find us on Twitter @farmingmonthly and most other platforms too. Andrew Poulton, Editor

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Follow us For editorial, general enquiries or to advertise please call +44 (0) 2476 353537 or email sales@farmingmonthly.com Farming Monthly National is published monthly in the UK by Farming Monthly Ltd, 15-17 Dugdale Street, Nuneaton, Warwickshire CV11 5QJ Tel: +44 (0) 2476 353537 Printed in the UK No part of this magazine may be reproduced without permission from the publisher. Whilst every attempt is made to ensure accuracy, the opinions expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of the Editor or publication. The Editor also reserves the right to alter or edit material as required and no responsibility is accepted for inaccuracies. Full copyright applies. All rights reserved. ISSN 2044-0190 (print) ISSN 2044-0200 (digital)

April 2016 | Farming Monthly | 05

| News

Agricultural wages reform could prove a headache for cash-strapped farm businesses New reforms may help staff moral but they are another headache for farm businesses in the current economic climate, says Mark Morison, Partner at Berrys in Shropshire. pril 1 saw the introduction of the Government’s New Living Wage in England. All workers aged 25 and over, who are not in their first year of an apprenticeship, will legally be entitled to at least £7.20 an hour – a rise of 50p relative to the current National Minimum Wage rate. This rate will increase year on year.

“Paying workers correctly is essential and employers face stiff penalties or even prosecution if they fail to do so” Minimum wage rates from 1 April 2016, including the National Living Wage will be: • £7.20 per hour for those aged 25 and above • £6.70 per hour for those aged 21 to 24 • £5.30 per hour for 18 to 20

year olds • £3.87 per hour for 16-17 year olds • £3.30 per hour for an apprentice • The accommodation offset rate is £5.35. “The Government has announced that the enforcement budget for the National Minimum Wage and Living Wage will be increased in 2016 and 2017,” said Mark. “Paying workers correctly is essential and employers face stiff penalties or even prosecution if they fail to do so. “New penalties are tougher and seek to ensure increased compliance. The calculation of penalties for those who do not comply will rise from 100 per cent of arrears to 200 per cent. This will be halved if employers pay within 14 days. The overall maximum penalty of £20,000 per worker remains unchanged. “The Gangmasters Licensing Authority will also monitor whether

06 | Farming Monthly | April 2016

workers are being paid the National Living Wage in the same way as it currently assesses the payment of the National Minimum Wage,” he explained. There are four recommended steps for employers seeking to prepare for the introduction of the National Living Wage: 1. Check who is eligible in your organisation. Find out more information on the Gov.UK Employment status page 2. Update payroll for each worker to ensure you are paying the correct amount 3. Let staff know about their new pay rate in writing 4. Check workers under 25 are earning at least the right rate of National Minimum Wage. “In Wales the new Agricultural Wages (Wales) Order came into force on 26 February 2016, meaning workers in Wales will receive an average six per cent pay increase based on previous minimum pay rates,” he added.

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| News

Combating rural crime A team of officers dedicated to combatting rural crime in the county has been re-formed in response to community concerns.

Front: Lawrence Poulter (Farmer) and Bob Lawrence Chairman Cambs NFU. Second row: Ben Underwood of CLA, Stephen Juggins Chairman Cambs Countryside Watch, Robert Sheasby NFU regional director and Chief Insp James Sutherland

he Rural Crime Action Team (RCAT) will combat hare coursing and poaching, as well as using specialist knowledge to deal with other aspects of rural crime including plant/tractor theft, arson, wildlife crime and illegal raves. Raising awareness of crime prevention strategies will also be a part of their role. In recent months incidents of hare coursing have been three times higher compared to previous years. Hare coursing causes damage to crops, harms animal

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welfare and threatens the rural economy. At times it can result in intimidation and even violence. Officers were joined recently by representatives from the National Farmers Union, the Country Land and Business Association and Countryside Watch at a launch event for the team. Chief Inspector James Sutherland said: "Our goals are simple - we want to drive hare coursing out of Cambridgeshire, reduce the financial cost of rural crime and let those in the rural community know that we are behind them.â&#x20AC;?

April 2016 | Farming Monthly | 07

| News

Commitment needed to support UK agriculture, regardless of Brexit outcome With the referendum on Britain’s membership in the EU looming, the National Sheep Association (NSA) claims it is impossible for farmers to make an objective decision on how to vote due to a major lack of detail on how the Government would continue to support farming and food in the event of an exit. he inability to give long term commitments is perhaps understandable, but NSA believes the current Government, at the highest level, should give firm

indications of how farming and food production would be treated if the country was to vote to leave. Phil Stocker, NSA Chief Executive says: “Many people directly involved in agriculture are supportive of remaining in the EU but, increasingly, I am talking to

08 | Farming Monthly | April 2016

sheep farmers who are somewhat attracted to leaving, remembering that the UK joined a common market and not a ‘super state’. However, the politicians running the out campaign can only give a personal opinion of what they might like to see in terms of investment and support for farming and food, not solid commitments. “The farming industry needs firm assurances to base their decision on, not just opinion and ideas. Defra is currently working on its 25 Year Food and Farming Plan, which NSA believes should include a commitment to support and nurture agriculture in order to deliver that plan, with reference to a future in and out of the EU. We would like to see clear and committed plans and intentions for both options. “Evidence over the last decade or more suggests the Treasury would reduce funding for agriculture, even if there was an

While the farming vote overall will be small, and outweighed by people more generally making decisions based on the economy and immigration, farmers are faced with making an uninformed vote” overall saving made by exiting the EU. Therefore the absence of any guarantee to maintain support, in particular to upland farms in marginal situations, means Brexit is of real concern to many NSA members. While the farming vote overall will be small, and outweighed by people more generally making decisions based on the economy and immigration, farmers are faced with making an uninformed vote. This is incredibly disappointing given the significance of the vote on the sheep sector and agriculture in general.”

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| Feature

Wastewater treatment company's global expansion WATER treatment technology that can clean some of the world’s most polluted waste liquids cheaply, quickly and efficiently is being prepared for global deployment. icromet has designed a water treatment machine in South Australia, which uses electrolysis to remove pollutants from contaminated water such as sewage, grey water, and industrial effluents. The company signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Chinese industrial group Dadongwu in Adelaide last week and is setting up a manufacturing plant in South Australia. Micromet Engineering Sales Director Andrew Townsend said the company’s six-module machines could clean 12-litres a second and could be deployed in a standard 40-foot shipping container. He said most other water treatment technologies usually took 24 to 36 hours to treat wastewater. “The residence time in our machine from when the dirty water drops in one end to when it starts to flow out the other end is around 50 minutes,” Townsend said. “We’re shipping them in shipping containers because pretty much you just drop the container in, affix pipes to it and attach power and make sure it’s all working and you can literally commission it in a day or two days, which is very different from having to build a traditional system which can take months and months to construct.” The process uses continuous flow electrolysis methods with special anti passivation technology that has eluded such systems in the past. The Micromet equipment is also very energy efficient, using just 0.25KWH to process 1000 litres compared to a reverse osmosis system that can require 20-40KWH to process the same amount. Micromet has been manufacturing mainly irrigation control technology in South Australia – which has an advanced water industry because it is the driest state on the driest continent on Earth - for two decades. But the company was forced to look for new opportunities in wastewater treatment when a devastating drought across southeast Australia from 2007-2012 almost brought the it to its knees. Until now the company has been mainly focused on wastewater treatment research and development, producing only a handful of commercial bespoke machines. The new plant will aim to produce 50 sixmodule machines a month within a year. “What Micromet has developed is a fair bit cheaper in terms of the actual machine in the first instance and on top of that is a fair bit cheaper to run than most other types of systems,” Townsend said. “We’re up to Generation 3, we’re imagining Generation 4 will be our first solar powered model and Generation 5 we’re hoping will literally be able to float on a dam, be powered by solar and treat the dam while floating on it.” Micromet took a prototype machine to China in November and successfully treated three highly contaminated industrial wastewaters - electroplating water, machining emulsion and garbage permeate as part of a demonstration. Non-industrial water treatment applications include sewage and mining waste such as fracking water. The treated “A Class” water can then be re-used in factories or mines or used for irrigation. The pollutants removed from the wastewater account for about six per cent of the original volume. “My hope is that we can eventually get to the point where we can return the treated water to the environment,” Townsend said. “Water doesn’t wear out - many factories will be able

| Dates for your diary

Scotgrass 2016

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UPCOMING EVENTS 18th May 2016 The event sponsored by Volac gives farmers and contractors an opportunity to see new technology at work and gives them the platform to think of different ways of making more from grass this coming season. www.scotgrass.co.uk

Cereals 2016 15th-16th June 2016 The technical event for the arable industry, join over 25,000 farmers, agronomists and industry professionals at Crishall Grange, Cambridgeshire. www.cerealsevent.co.uk to use the water again and again.” Townsend said the Chinese Government had made water and air pollution a priority in its five-year plan. “That’s a massive market for us because at the moment there’s no incumbent technologies,” he said. “It’s estimated that China will make up 50 per cent of the world water treatment market over the next five years. “We’ve estimated that our slice of the pie could be anywhere up to $20 billion Australian dollars over the next five to seven years. “India is also going gangbusters so when we’re trying to plan this facility we don’t want it to be just maxed out producing machines for China, we want to have some additional capacity to supply other markets as well.” Micromet partnered with a Canadian business to create a joint venture called Living Sky Water Solutions in 2014 after Canada’s Water Security Agency outlawed the “lagooning” method of treating effluent in small communities. Last month it signed a deal to build a one megalitre per day wastewater treatment plant for the prairie town of Kerrobert in Saskatchewan, Canada. “We have another five (Canadian towns) on the books in various stages of negotiations and the number of communities over there that need a service similar to ours is about 1800 so we estimate the potential value of Canada to us is about $1 billion over five to seven years,” Townsend said. Dadongwu is a partially state-owned industrial group based in Huzhou, southwest It has a wide range of business interests including construction of hotels and ports, automotive manufacturing, and water treatment technologies. Dadongwu is directly investing $2 million in Micromet while the South Australian Government has given the company $26,000 to develop and implement a marketing and brand strategy for Australian and international markets. Townsend said the government help and support from SinoSA, the Water Industry Alliance and Investment Attraction South Australia had been crucial to Micromet’s success in securing international partners.

April 2016 | Farming Monthly | 09

AD & Biogas 2016 6th-7th July 2016 Building on its extraordinary success to date, UK AD & Biogas is now expanding the tradeshow to cover not just the exceptional opportunities in the UK AD market, but also around the world as the global AD industry starts to take off. Showcasing the very best AD technology for sewage treatment, food waste, farm and small-scale plants as well as community and micro-scale AD plants, alongside the latest innovations, gas upgrading and biomethane vehicle technology. adbioresources.org/uk-ad-biogas-2016

Royal Welsh 2016 18th-21st July 2016 The role of the modern Royal Welsh Show is a rounded one. As well as its principal function of showcasing the cream of Welsh livestock and the high quality food and drink produced in Wales, it encompasses the wider spectrum of farming and rural life and successfully bridges the gap between town and country. It provides something to interest everyone through its kaleidoscopic range of activities including forestry, horticulture, crafts, countryside sports, Sports Village and a 12 hour programme of exciting entertainment that continues throughout each of the four days of the event. www.rwas.wales/royal-welsh-show/

| On Topic

Compost tea

Field lab sees yield increases from compost teas on organic arable farm

The pioneering farmer-led network Innovative Farmers has released initial results from research into the large-scale application of compost teas in agriculture. ut of the three farms involved in the field lab, one farmer has seen yields increase 35-50% on the fields tested in the first year of application, and all farms have seen increases in soil fungi. Compost tea was sprayed on 45 hectares of test areas three times during the field lab, from April to June, and fields ranged from peat soil to calcium dominated soil. Sophie Alexander of Hemsworth Farm said that while these initial results are promising – more research is definitely needed. The team at Hemsworth are committed to using and testing compost teas again this year to find out more about their effect. The initial trials were not replicated within fields, but were carried out on four different sites. The Innovative Farmers field lab began in March 2014, linking a group of farmers including organic and non-organic arable farmers from across England, and one apple grower, with researchers from the Organic Research Centre. Liz Bowles, head of farming at the Soil Association,

10 | Farming Monthly | April 2016

is co-ordinating the group. She said; “The results of the compost tea field lab are very positive at one of the farms but we now need to repeat and extend the trials. Innovative Farmers helps farmers carry out more reliable trials at scale – in this field lab we have 3 farms and 45 hectares involved in the trial. By testing compost teas on different farms, with different soils, we can find out more about the effects that compost teas can have on soil microbiology.” An estimate of the cost benefit of using compost teas suggests that for the first 10% increase in yield on an organic farm, the financial benefit from use of compost teas after costs was around £18/ha. For every further increase of 10% in yield, the additional benefit was estimated to be around £70/ha. Increases in yield at the three trial sites ranged from 10% to around 50%. At all trial sites increases in active fungi, flagellates and amoebae were significant (full report available to Innovative Farmers members here). The presence of active fungi is essential for effective nitrogen and phosphorous absorption in crops. Fungi are one type

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| On Topic

Liz Bowles co-ordinating compost tea field lab

Sophie Alexander - Hemsworth farm

of micro-organism in soil that forms symbiotic relationships with plants roots, breaking down complex carbon compounds and returning nitrogen to the soil – which subsequently allows the crop to absorb more nitrogen and phosphorous, essential as fertiliser. Sophie Alexander, of Hemsworth Farm, said; “I first read about the compost tea brewer a few years ago and was intrigued. Through the Soil Association I found out about the Innovative Farmers group, and discovered that I wasn’t alone in my fascination. I joined the group and ran trials across 40 ha of spring barley at Hemsworth – I had initially thought of trialling compost teas off the back of a quad bike with a backpack sprayer! “I will be continuing with the Innovative Farmers group as although we have had amazing results this year I am unsure how accurate they are – it’s only our first year using compost teas. “By spraying the same 40 ha we will be able to determine if there is a cumulative effect of the compost teas on the soil and our crops. Last year we

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sprayed in April, May and June and I plan to do the same again this year. I am also going to continue the experiment into our spring wheats elsewhere on the farm. That seems to be the logical progression for our farm. We’ve had such good results it would be stupid not to repeat.” Each farm involved in the Innovative Farmers field lab had a full biology and chemistry soil test to analyse the soil microbiology before the trial began. Martin Lishman Ltd helped members of the group learn about the precise requirements for making and applying compost teas effectively. Innovative Farmers is a not-for-profit network giving farmers support and funding on their own terms. It helps farmers find lasting solutions to practical problems, from managing weeds and pests with fewer chemicals to testing more sustainable animal feeds through on-farm field labs. Together farmers are finding new ways to grow better food, cut waste and pollution, and protect their farm from volatility.

Further information LEAF (Linking Environment and Farming), Innovation for Agriculture, the Organic Research Centre and the Soil Association have teamed up to support Innovative Farmers. The network is part of the Duchy Future Farming Programme, funded by the Prince of Wales’s Charitable Foundation and backed by Waitrose. Find out more: www.innovativefarmers.org

April 2016 | Farming Monthly | 11

| Arable

Greener for longer is key to yield building Fine-tuning agronomy to extend green leaf retention at the end of the season is one of the most effective ways of boosting wheat yields and breaking the yield plateau affecting UK crops. hat was one of the main messages from a recent ADASled Yield Enhancement Network (YEN) event in Peterborough, where growers, researchers and industry sponsors, including leading agronomy firm Hutchinsons, gathered to examine ways to enhance wheat yields. Maximising light, water and nutrient capture during the summer months is a key way of narrowing the existing gulf between average farm yields at around 8t/ha and the “biophysical potential” of wheat, which can be up to 20t/ha on some sites, says ADAS Boxworth’s Ian Smillie. “The bio-physical potential tells you what is theoretically possible, but the focus is what’s attainable. “Annual cereal crops by their nature don’t have the canopy structure to capture all sunlight available in a season – a typical 11t/ha crop may only capture 47% of total incident radiation for example. “But, establishing slightly larger canopies early in the season and then keeping them green for longer could increase interception to 60%. By far the largest proportion of that

Agronomic areas to focus on include:

increase comes from 10 days extra greening at the end of the season,” he explains. Senescence is partly determined by genetics of individual varieties, but is also heavily dependent on water and nitrogen availability, and on protection from disease, so growers should find ways of maximising these throughout the season, but particularly towards the end, he says. How this is best achieved on farm is a key focus of future YEN investigations, but there are already many things growers can try this season, says Bob Bulmer from Hutchinsons, who stresses that every solution must be tailored to individual situations. “There are a number of elements that need to be combined to ensure canopies are photosynthetically active for longer. “Good root systems are important for maximising water and nutrient capture and we are also investigating the physiological benefits of SDHI and strobilurin fungicides on canopies and water use efficiency. The impact of major and minor nutrients on canopy development is another area we are studying.” Dr Bulmer encourages more growers to join the YEN project, which is now in its fourth year. He is keen to point out that YEN’s focus is on

identifying ways to maximise the yield potential of individual sites, rather than simply competing to produce the highest-yielding crop. Prof Roger Sylvester-Bradley of ADAS adds: “Crop productivity has been somewhat lost in the drive to reduce costs over the past 25 years, but YEN is all about looking at how the science of yield can be used to develop unique best practice for every field. “Focussing on the money and costs means you often miss ways to enhance yield.” But he acknowledges the cost-effectiveness of different measures needs to be factored into YEN and suggests this could be one project area to develop in future. If you are interested in taking part in YEN this year please go to www.yen.adas.co.uk or contact Dr Bob Bulmer by emailing: information@hlhltd.co.uk. The YEN project is led by ADAS and sponsored by Hutchinsons, Adama, AgSpace, AHDB Cereals & Oilseeds, Bayer, Limagrain, NIAB-TAG, NRM, NFU, Rothamsted Research, de Sangosse, Syngenta and Yara. Fine-tuning agronomy to extend green leaf retention at the end of the season can boost wheat yields says Dr Bob Bulmer of Hutchinsons

• Encourage more root growth and deeper rooting (ideally down to 2m) to allow access to more water and nutrients, particularly in regions prone to drought stress and early senescence • Improve soil structure and rooting ability by: Reducing compaction (e.g. controlled traffic farming, minimising travel in wet conditions) Minimise cultivations to build natural structure Add organic matter (composts, manures, cover crops) to build soil biology and improve structure Encourage vertical biopores (such as those created by earthworms or deeprooting crops) to provide conduits for wheat root penetration • Consider a “little and often” approach to fertiliser applications, tailored to crop requirements throughout the season, and: • Late nitrogen where nitrogen is limiting end of season growth – but beware of scorch risk • Improve the water-holding capacity of drought-prone soils – e.g. addition of organic matter or cover crops • Maximise the physiological effects of existing fungicide chemistry to improve greening – e.g. SDHIs / strobilurins/ plant growth regulators – use appropriate dose and timing for greening or canopy manipulation, but do not compromise disease control • Tailor variety choice to specific field conditions rather than a block-cropping type approach. Later-maturing varieties could help prolong green leaf retention.

12 | Farming Monthly | April 2016

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| Arable

Nine new Monitor Farms for England Nine new Monitor Farms have joined AHDB Cereals & Oilseeds’ innovative knowledge exchange programme in England and Wales. The aim of the expanded network, to be launched in June, is to enable more farmers to take part in the programme and to benefit from the discussions. im Isaac, AHDB Cereals & Oilseeds Interim Head of Regional Development, said: “These new Monitor Farms will fill the gaps in our geographical coverage, making it easier for more growers to get to meetings near them. Businesses across the country have already benefited from the existing farms, but growing the network to 24 will allow the programme to better reflect a range of localised conditions and help a wider cross-section of growers.” From Dereham in Norfolk to Truro in Cornwall, the hosts represent a range of local farm sizes and enterprises. There are family farms at just over 200ha and estates of over 1,000ha. Some have other enterprises, while others are solely arable. Establishment techniques in the new tranche of Monitor Farms include ploughing and combination drilling (Warrington), strip till (Kent), and a variety of approaches to min-till. The new Monitor Farms are: • Blandford (Dorset): James and Georgie Cossins, Rawston Farm • Bridgnorth (Shropshire): Adrian Joynt, Apley Estate • Dereham (Norfolk): Simon Brock, Swanton Morely Farms • Leicester (Leicestershire): Jack Smith, Stoughton Estate • Newark (Nottinghamshire): John Miller, Manor Farm • Northampton (Northamptonshire): Tom Banks, Courteenhall Estate • Sittingbourne (Kent): Mark Bowsher-Gibbs, Hempstead Farm

• Truro (Cornwall): Howard Emmett, Tregaire Farms • Warrington (Cheshire): Robert Cross, Clifflane Farm Howard Emmett, new Monitor Farm host in Truro, said: “I’d been interested in the Monitor Farm scheme from the word ‘go’ and got involved with the Crediton group last autumn. I saw how everyone was there to increase their knowledge. If I can help in this process in our area I will be very pleased. “My own business aim is to sustain the profitability of my farm in the current economic climate. I’m hoping that the meetings will be useful to others.” AHDB Cereals & Oilseeds Monitor Farms bring together groups of like-minded farmers, who wish to develop or expand their enterprises, in an environment which encourages them to share critical performance details. This information is discussed and evaluated by the group, encouraging and facilitating business improvement through the adoption of new technology and practices. The programme of meetings at each of the farms will be driven by farmers participating in the Monitor Farm groups. In the first 12 months of the Monitor Farm project in England and Wales, over 2,400 people took part, with the majority reporting benefits to their business. Of those surveyed in April 2015, more than nine out of ten valued the opportunity to openly discuss issues and share experiences and 75% improved their technical knowledge. Topics covered in the last twelve months include fixed cost analysis, crop establishment, cover crops, grain storage, marketing, weed

control, soil health, nutrition, precision farming, building resilient businesses, benchmarking and more. Get involved Each of the new Monitor Farms will hold an open launch day this summer before harvest. Anyone interested in attending should contact their AHDB Cereals & Oilseeds Regional Manager on the given email address. Launch meeting dates: East Midlands: harry.henderson@ahdb.org.uk Leicester: 7 June 2016 Newark: 29 June 2016 Northampton: 1 July 2016 North: judith.stafford@ahdb.org.uk Warrington: 1 June 2016 East Anglia: tim.isaac@ahdb.org.uk Dereham: 6 July 2016 West & Wales: richard.meredith@ahdb.org.uk Bridgnorth: 9 June 2016 South East: paul.hill@ahdb.org.uk Sittingbourne: 23 June 2016 South West: philip.dolbear@ahdb.org.uk Truro: 21 June 2016 Blandford: 4 July 2016 Find out more about the Monitor Farm programme at cereals.ahdb.org.uk/monitorfarms or on twitter with the hashtag #monitorfarm. Scottish Farmers will also this year have the opportunity to benefit from nine new Monitor Farms, thanks to a collaborative project between Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) and AHDB Cereals & Oilseeds.

BASF reaches major milestone in the global development of its new fungicide Revysol® Regulatory dossier submitted for approval in the EU for innovative active ingredient with outstanding field performance against many fungal pathogens. ASF has submitted the regulatory dossier for a new active ingredient, Revysol®, to the European Union (EU). The proprietary compound is expected to be the company’s new blockbuster fungicide from the chemical class of triazoles (SBI). Extensive research has shown its outstanding biological performance against a range of difficult to control pathogens. Revysol’s submission for registration in the EU marks a key milestone towards the compound’s global registration in row and specialty crops. “Undoubtedly, Revysol will be another striking compound that delivers significant benefits to farmers around the globe,” said Markus Heldt, President of BASF’s Crop Protection division. As farmers continue to need product diversity for mixing or alternating mode of actions, Revysol is set to play a vital role in

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future resistance management recommendations. “Our ability to develop such an excellent molecule definitely flags our leadership position in fungicides,” said Heldt. Fungicides from the triazole chemical class have proven their value against diseases that can severely damage crops and compromise the quality of farmers’ harvests, such as Septoria tritici and rust in cereals. Nonetheless, no new molecule with this mode of action has been introduced to the market for more than ten years, thus increasing the risk of resistance and leaving farmers with few alternatives for disease control. “We have applied our deep fungicide expertise and invested best-in-class research to create Revysol,” said Harald Rang, Senior Vice President of Research and Development, BASF Crop Protection. Already at the discovery phase, the new fungicide was designed to meet both the highest level of regulatory standards

“As farmers continue to need product diversity for mixing or alternating mode of actions, Revysol is set to play a vital role in future resistance management recommendations” and outstanding biological performance. “Farmers will have a new tool to ensure their crops will stay disease-free and healthy for a longer period of time, optimizing crop yields and quality of the harvest,” concluded Rang. Revysol will be available in customized formulations to provide farmers worldwide with high performing fungicide solutions. Pending regulatory approval, first market introductions are expected for 2019.

April 2016 | Farming Monthly | 13

| Arable

Sclerotinia Outlook helps manage disease

Dr. Caroline Young

Adding another years dataset to make it even more accurate, the popular BASF/ADAS Sclerotinia Monitoring Service starts soon and the Sclerotinia Outlook section offers more detailed information to help advisors and farmers see disease risk in their local area. s a reminder the Sclerotinia monitoring information is generated from seven sites Cambridgeshire, Yorkshire, Herefordshire, Lincolnshire, Kent, Devon and Scotland. The data is gathered from past years and can be used to generate a local risk assessment," ADAS plant pathologist Dr. Caroline Young says. She explains that germination assessments are made each week for a 12 week period, running into June, with results updated every Friday or Monday on the BASF rape website www.totaloilseedcare.co.uk. “Last year we made the weekly reports more precise, so that farmers and advisors could quickly understand of their local risk. Each monitoring site is further supported by petal tests at first flower, early flower and mid-flower, which will help establish disease pressure from air-borne spores,” she says. Caroline advises growers to check their Sclerotinia risk for their individual postcodes by using the Sclerotinia Outlook service on the www.totaloilseedcare.co.uk website and use this information to make decisions on treatments on forward crops with good plant stands. Sclerotinia Outlook will indicate disease risk at postcode level, using a colour-coded map of the UK, with green being low risk and red being high risk. Publication of the latest bulletin is also posted on Twitter; @totaloilseeds. Dr. Caroline Young reminds growers that a soil temperature of 8-10°C is needed for its over wintering bodies sclerotia to germinate and release airborne spores. “Right now soil temperatures are relatively cool below 9 to 10 °C so germination has not started in most places. But it has already started in one location in Devon. As soon as soil temperatures warm up, germination and spore release is bound to occur where soils are damp. The crops aren’t in flower yet but some in the south

are not far off. So germination could coincide with early flower for many crops this year, which would result in a high infection risk, if there are a couple of warm days and nights at that time. Rape crops are at highest risk from Sclerotinia when sclerotial germination synchronises with early flowering. Spores infect the plant when minimum temperatures are above 7°C and there are long periods of high humidity. Fungicide treatments need to be applied before infection and this is where the Outlook service is most useful. By using the Outlook service, it can help to prioritise spraying demands.” Sclerotinia is an important disease of oilseed rape, causing yield losses of 30 to 50% in severely affected crops, warns BASF Business Development Manager Clare Tucker. “Effective fungicide treatments such as Pictor (boscalid and dimoxystrobin) will give excellent Sclerotinia control, around 85% in trials, which then will result in high yield responses.” “Crops at risk need protection and with most fungicides being mainly protectant, it is important to know when disease is likely to come into the crop. Knowing this information puts you in a better place to time fungicide applications effectively, in advance of disease and before any significant petal fall. BASF advise growers to apply Pictor early to midflower fungicide before petal fall. Filan (boscalid) will also give outstanding results but

Electronic grain passports trials are encouraging, says NFU The NFU is urging arable farmers to make their voices heard on the potential switch from paper grain trade documentation to electronic grain (eGrain) passports as AHDB announces that the industry consultation period on the new eGrain passport scheme is open.

14 | Farming Monthly | April 2016

it must be mixed with another fungicide with a different mode of action as a resistance management measure.” “Pictor has been the market leading fungicide in several European countries where Sclerotinia is a more regular and often more severe disease. It is a strong candidate as it contains two actives both of which control Sclerotinia and so has in-built resistance management. A different mode of action to the triazoles is also the best way forward, especially as Pictor also has two actives with some activity on Light leaf spot at flowering. The FWAG guidelines say that growers should be using an alternative to triazoles for Light Leaf spot. Finally Pictor (and Filan) are bee safe and can be mixed with pyrethroids for seed weevil control at flowering. As with all sprays it is important to ensure that bees are not foraging actively in the crop at the time of spraying.” Clare reports that both Pictor and Filan give excellent control of Sclerotinia and both give a yield increase when there is no disease present. “In independent ADAS trials this was 0.22 t/ha. This yield comes from leaf and pod greening and improved water use efficiency for seed-fill– water uptake can be limiting at this time of year. Obviously yield responses will be additionally higher as a direct response to high disease control as well as physiological effects.”

FU combinable crops board chairman Mike Hambly said: “The NFU is pleased to be involved with the pilot project and we are encouraged by the results; it is now up to industry to decide the next step for the eGrain passport. “Real time feedback of data, both weights and analysis, of our product is critical in enabling us to better manage our businesses. This level of transparency is essential across this food industry. Just as livestock farmers utilise the data they receive from abattoirs, arable farmers need to be able to

take the same approach with their product. The feedback of data has been labelled ‘extremely beneficial’ by the people involved in the trial. “We are mindful that the final report does have outstanding questions - primarily around the cost and ownership of the scheme – and the NFU will be asking members to give their views on the options available before any potential national rollout is implemented. “We are encouraging members to look at the report and share their views with us to form the NFU’s response to AHDB’s industry consultation.”

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| Arable

Dutch expect increased sugar beet production With the current European production quota coming to an end in September 2017, the question is: what will the Dutch farmers do? The Netherlands is currently delivering almost 14 tons of sugar output per hectare, which is more than the output per hectare of, for instance, France, the U.K or Germany.

he Agrifac Academy organized a congress about the future of sugar beet in the

Netherlands. The Agrifac Academy is part of Agrifac Machinery b.v., producing in addition to self-propelled and trailed sprayers, also four types of beet harvesters. During the congress, major lecturers from different organisations presented their forecast and perspective of the sugar beet in the Netherlands after 2017, the year after which sugar companies are no longer hindered in the marketing of sugar in the European Union. Sugar beet cultivation in the Netherlands comprises approximately 72,000 hectares this year. Suiker Unie, the cooperative that processes all Dutch sugar beet, aims to raise this area in

2017 to 85,000 - 90,000 hectares. The director of Suiker Unie, Gert Sikken, expects a global growth of the sugar beet market. Cane sugar will be replaced more and more by sugar produced out of sugar beets and more sugar will be exported out of Europe. The new ambition of Suiker Unie is that the Dutch will produce 90 tons per hectare with a sugar density of 18%. About 10 years ago, the Dutch received 43â&#x201A;Ź per ton . Today this is 26â&#x201A;Ź. Although Dutch growers will have to get used to fluctuating prices which - at the start of the quota free era - will drop at first to a lower level, in the new reality there is most certainly a place for sugar beet in Dutch agriculture. The revenue will still be significantly higher than what a farmer receives for producing cereals. For the Dutch grower the reality

is even more nuanced as in calculating the sugar beet price, the relationship of grower/processor and the structure, are of interest. Particularly if the price of the beet is linked to the profit of the cooperative, the pressure on the beet price will be limited. Additionally, Eisse Luitjens from Greenlincs pointed out during Agrifacâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s congress that the Netherlands are taking the lead in the low-cost production of sugar beet. Mr Luitjens presented the opportunities and role of sugar in the bio-based industry. Beet pulp can be turned into carbs for the chemical industry. The best opportunities for the use of sugar or beet pulp are considered to be bio plastics, bio-ethanol and green gas. Will European farmers experience difference in the sugar beet market?

Rabobank expects larger differences within the European Union. Less imports and more exports and a total and single increase of sugar beet production among all greater sugar beet producing countries in the European Union. Once the restrictions on the export of sugar are gone, the outlets for sugar from the EU will increase considerably. A strong player like the Netherlands, will for sure profit from these changes in the longer term.

Weighty warranty for Griffith Elder weighbridges Easier to use and with increased overall reliability, the company now provides 2 year warranty as standard. riffith Elder present a new generation Multi-Axle Weighbridges and Portable WeighBeams, specifically designed for every-day use on farm. With a capacity to weigh the heaviest vehicles these products have a proven record of longevity, with some of our customers still using platforms that were made in the 1980s. The new WB6 monitor is built into a portable waterproof case and allows simple operation without the need for the driver to get out of the cab. The driver

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presses a fob to let the weighbridge know which vehicle is to be weighed and the memory automatically captures the weights and stores the net weight of the load. All the weights can be downloaded to a USB memory stick so that field yields can be directly put onto a computer. A portable large display shows the net weight of the load, and an automatic traffic light tells the driver when to move to the next axle. The latest electronic design of the WB6 monitor has made the system even easier to use and has increased the overall reliability

allowing us to give an automatic 2 years warranty on the weighbridges. For further information contact

Peter King on telephone number 01284-719-619 or see our website: www.griffith-elder.com

April 2016 | Farming Monthly | 15

| Arable

Rapid 25 years “A difficulty overcome is an asset” apid appeared at a time when farming was regarded as unimportant and was unprofitable. In 1991, when Rapid was launched, the political situation was directly counterproductive for Sweden’s farmers. Farmers were a burden - you could get food in the shops, people reasoned, even at high levels in government, and farmers were offered money to switch over to golf courses, for example. “We spotted potential in this rather absurd situation. We made use of this difficult situation and worked hard to produce a new concept. Our primary motive was to find a way to help farmers reduce their costs and make their farming activities more efficient. A difficulty overcome that became an asset,” says Crister Stark. Following the election in autumn 1991 there was a change of government, but it wasn’t until 1995 that Sweden joined the EU, which was creating requirements that improved conditions for Swedish agriculture. The consequence was new rules and economic conditions that made things easier for farmers. But the story of Väderstad’s seed drills for direct drilling began much earlier. During the 80’s Crister Stark and Gert Gilstring worked on the direct drill. Even back then one of the main reasons was to find more cost-effective cultivation methods, which was, among other things, strongly linked to fuel prices. It can be risky to drill with crop remains still on the ground, not least because of slugs. So here in the Nordic region, where drilling takes place predominantly in the autumn, people did not immediately see the possibilities, but then arose a wave of interest in direct drilling on the part of farmers.

“As long as we can see ahead, we can improve the concept further. We already have a number of ideas for increasing precision and making it even more attractive to our customers, and they support us in our work. Some products are immortal, Rapid is iconic,” says Crister Stark.

Being able to drill under different conditions without preparatory soil cultivation meant that a new era opened up for farming “They liked these machines that drilled the perfect depth and also instantly pressed the earth down over the seed with their wheels. They came to call the direct drill their universal machine,” says Crister. “Rapid is just right for agronomy” The primary advantage of the Rapid machine is that it reduces costs but is nevertheless just right for agronomy. It is suitable for pretty much all soil types, and the ground does not need to be prepared. This makes it an incredibly costeffective machine. Even if the ground is hard, the disc moves with the help of its rubber suspension straight into the soil. It is the wheel behind that guides the disc and also presses down the furrow. “Farmers were defeated at the start of the 90s. We realised that the only thing we could sell in future was something that would help them to improve and be more efficient. We took the best from the direct drill, especially the seed coulters, and developed it further until it later turned into Rapid. We produced bigger wheels and developed the combi system for fertiliser. We changed most things but kept the supporting concept from the direct drill,” says Crister.

16 | Farming Monthly | April 2016

They also brought in effective soil cultivation using CrossBoard - an invention that changed agriculture. The machine had such excellent features that the drilling speed could be doubled. In spring 1991 50 Rapids were sold. 25 years later almost 25,000 have been sold. “Of course, there were some problems to begin with, but we battled on and solved all our difficulties, making farmers very happy,” says Crister. Today Rapid can be found in 40 countries Being able to drill under different conditions without preparatory soil cultivation meant that a new era opened up for farming. At Väderstad they worked constantly to improve and refine their products, and there was great demand for a bigger pneumatic Rapid. An international market soon opened up. “There was huge development potential in pneumatics and we began to design a machine that could be folded up to a width of three metres for transport purposes. Optimism among the farmers had increased with the decision to join the EU at the same time as the machine appeared. The situation became much better in general,” says Crister. Finland also became a big and important market for Väderstad, but like Sweden, it occasionally had difficult economic periods due to currency issues and devaluation. “Later we started in the UK. We got off to a fantastic start there. We expanded our production, we built three and four-metre machines and pneumatic machines up to eight metres, side by side, on two lines. Gradually we started up in France and then we took country after country.” Rapid is iconic Rapid is a robust and sustainable machine that helps farmers streamline their agricultural activities through reduced effort and improved harvests. It offers a very high chance of plants growing regardless of the season. With Rapid the farmer can drill twice as fast as when using conventional drilling and soil cultivation. In parallel with this, tractors have been developed and technical developments have gone well. “I think that the machines will get bigger and bigger and that we will broaden their application. But their original versatility, quality and reliability will always remain. There is also good demand for used Rapids; Rapid is just getting bigger and bigger,” says Crister. At Väderstad they say that it is the power of innovation that creates their success. There is now yet another version of Rapid using new technology, new IT features, new maintenancefree bearings and so on. “We were also the first to use E-Control, which, using an iPad as the only control unit, now opens up a whole new market. Our competitors said “that will never work”, but they were wrong. The iPad communicates wirelessly with the drill’s Gateway and is absolutely superb in its simplicity and user-friendliness. A system pretty much without limitations,” says Crister. “As long as we can see ahead, we can improve the concept further. We already have a number of ideas for increasing precision and making it even more attractive to our customers, and they support us in our work. Some products are immortal, Rapid is iconic,” concludes Crister.

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| Arable

Rapid A product family Watch the video...

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April 2016 | Farming Monthly | 17

| Arable

PGRO & BEPA pulse outlook "With spring bean drilling in full swing for what is likely to be the main period for 2016, the market is looking forward to a similar area to that harvested in 2015,” comments Roger Vickers, Chief Executive of PGRO. “That said, the area is not accurately understood and the winter bean crop area is believed to be a little less than for crop 2015. The last two years have seen generally good crop performances for pulses in the UK - will the coming months be similarly conducive to yields?” ooking at Domestic Markets, Chris Collings, President of BEPA, comments that the bean market seems to be well supplied in all areas at present and this has seen prices fall slightly in the last 3-4 weeks following a significant rise since the New Year. These roller coaster effects in the market are not untypical in the early months of each year with market destinations opening and closing as buyers take stock of demand and purchase positions. Interest in UK pulses for all established markets remains good for both old crop and the coming new crop harvest. * Old crop requirements for Feed Beans for the JanuaryApril period have largely been covered. Prices have hardly changed for some time and remain in the range approximately £120-130 ex depending upon the location. Demand will typically fall

as cattle turn out to grass from the end of April. It is difficult to know how much produce has gone into the feed market, but it is safely judged to have at least doubled year on year. The product is liked by the buyers in terms of processing and feed quality and they are now looking to cover requirements over the summer. This is all good news and providing strong assurances for utilisation of crop 2016. New crop prices are presently similar to old, but with wheat still lingering at around £105/t, feed beans are offered a premium of approximately £25/t. Trade of both old and new crop is taking place. * The market for Human Consumption Beans appears to be temporarily oversupplied from all destinations with a 17,000t cargo from Australia en route to the Egyptian market. Values have slipped slightly as a result, falling from their recent highs of £160/t ex to current levels of £145/t ex.

18 | Farming Monthly | April 2016

The produce from Lithuania has been well received, being bruchidfree and was generally of lower price for early movement. In Egypt, buyers will be looking to source from Lithuania ex 2016 with enthusiasm. Of course, this origin is new as suppliers to the market and has yet to build a reputation for consistency and reliability - a position that UK trade has enjoyed for many years and the reason why UK beans remain in the leading position. Egyptian currenc y was recently devalued by over 12% and currency availability is still an issue, though falls in GBP values have continued to assist exporters. Australian crop 2015 was reported at circa 320,000t, up 12% on 2014. The area, however, increased by 75% reflecting weather related cropping issues. The Sudanese market will reopen in June for containerised shipments from May, which may provide late opportunities for remaining old crop of the right quality. Quality remains the watchword for human consumption beans. Samples with a good enough visual appearance are now quite hard to source, with colour darkening in storage, an issue that growers need to constantly bear in mind. The outlook for 2016 crop remains good - demand for exports in excess of 240,000 tonnes can be anticipated if the UK can deliver the right quality. Early intelligence suggests French crop area is likely to be down further and Lithuanian/NE European areas to remain much the same. * For Combining Peas, any free market Marrowfat pea crops remaining could fetch £275-£300/t ex farm, though it is believed there

are few available. The cold start to spring and delays to early sowings whilst soil conditions improve are raising questions about any potential yield impact in the trade. At this stage, the concern is only slight. New crop contract values remain at £280-£300/t ex farm. Quality remains the watchword for human consumption beans. Samples with a good enough visual appearance are now quite hard to source, with colour darkening in storage, an issue that growers need to constantly bear in mind With the increased export interest for Large Blue peas, their value has continued to rise from the very low levels seen over the past few months. Even the paler samples have risen - though not in proportion to the better quality, strongly-coloured samples desired by the export markets. Only a small surplus is now anticipated. Old crop values range from £145-£170/t ex. New crop is also trading with values £160£200/t ex depending upon quality and location. There is currently no trade in the UK for Yellow peas. It is viewed that the unexpectedly higher than normal values seen in 2015 are less likely for new crop, with large and normally strong production areas viewed with ability to supply.

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| Finance

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April 2016 | Farming Monthly |17

| Energy

Contact your nearest dealer: Central Cropsprayers Limited Unit J Sandford Industrial Park Whitchurch Shropshire SY13 2AN 01948 840187 www.centralcropsprayers.co.uk

Agratech NW Ltd Unit 8 Dale Mill Burnley Road East Lancashire BB4 9HU 01706 211399 www.agratech.co.uk

20 | Farming Monthly | April 2016

Flowgro Ltd Barton Turn Farm Barton-under-Needwood Burton upon Trent Staffordshire DE13 8ED 01283 716204 www.flowgro.co.uk

Sprayer Spares Ltd Unit 2-3 Moorlands Trading Estate Moor Lane Metheringham Lincoln LN4 3HX 01526 323521 www.sprayerspares-ltd.co.uk

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| Root Crops

Durably resistant potatoes with wild potato genes offer 80% reduction in chemical control 10 Years of research into sustainable resistance against phytophthora (DuRPh) concluded with scientific publication and brochure. research project into the development of potatoes with sustainable resistance against phytophthora via genetic modification with genes from wild potato varieties and good resistance management (DuRPh) has concluded with a scientific publication on the research results. The Wageningen UR scientists indicated that their approach was successful in developing potato plants which require 80% less chemical control. The potato is the third food crop and offers a relatively high yield and valuable food per hectare. Global potato cultivation is, however, under threat from the pathogen Phytophthora infestans. Farmers who can afford to do so spray their crops against the pathogen with chemicals up to 15 times a year, which is both expensive and harmful to the environment. Farmers without the means for chemical control lose a large part of their yield in some years as a result of the disease. Published in Potato Research,

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the scientific publication describes the ten-year DuRPh study performed by Wageningen UR commissioned by the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs. The goal of the research was to find ‘proof of principle’ for genetically modifying existing potato varieties solely with genes of potato species in order to develop a durable resistance against phytophthora. These potatoes could substantially reduce the global use of crop protection products and make a major contribution to the production of extra food. To foster the durability of the resistance, Wageningen scientists brought combinations of resistance genes from wild potatoes over to cultivated potatoes, and developed a method for managing the use of various resistances. The scientists mapped scores of resistance genes from wild potatoes of which nearly half were ‘cloned’ so that they could be transformed to existing potato varieties as single genes or in sets of two or three. After the scientists had determined that they could actually make susceptible potato

varieties resistant, these potato plants were then multiplied to provide sufficient potatoes for research on trial fields. The resistant potatoes were studied in the field in various ways. In small ‘monitoring plots’ they also were used to study which types of phytophthora were present on the land. In larger demonstration fields, visitors from the sector and the general public could see the success of the attempt to make vulnerable potatoes resistant to phytophthora for four consecutive years. The DuRPh research also aimed to make an intrinsic contribution to the discussion about genetic modification in society. To achieve this, the Wageningen research team organised meetings for the potato chain, social organisations and the general public. Visitors were able to see the genetically modified potatoes in the field with their own eyes, and note how well they coped against the phytophthora disease. The scientists also delivered many presentations both in the Netherlands and abroad.

April 2016 | Farming Monthly | 21

| Root Crops

Growing potatoes? The fluctuations of the potato market and the inherent vulnerability of the potato crop to disease and defects have forced some growers to move away from growing potatoes. The estimated reduction from 2014-2015 was c. 8% and this trend may continue this year. That could be good news for growers as it may stabilise the prices further. otatoes coming out of stores are generally in good condition with low wastage due to mostly Black Dot and Silver Scurf. Breakdown and sprouting are also typical in ambient stores but levels of waste are low. This year’s early planting already started in the south and it will continue as the weather improves. The weather is still the major influence on quality and yield; little can be predicted on how this season will develop. The mild winter will certainly bring some issues such as disease but not without solutions. Good preparation and planning is key to

avoid such effects. Typically, expenses in soil preparation, seed and inputs cannot be avoided. It is however essential to aim at reducing the costs where possible to ensure a profitable crop. The combination of choosing the variety and producing good quality will determine profitability. Good skin finish and narrow size distribution with more bakers is key to achieving higher prices. Nutrition plays a major role in both quality and quantity. By no means will nutrition solve all issues. If anything, it is a large expense, and where not applied correctly it can cause more problems than benefits.

22 | Farming Monthly | April 2016

Foliar application of micronutrients is still the most efficient way for uptake avoiding complications by root uptake and lock ups occurring in the soil. Several years of research on potato nutrition at Crop Intellect have demonstrated that the more complex the tank mix the less the effect. Where a program is followed, which is common, it works best when treatments are applied separately. For instance, one product is applied with the fungicide and another (or more than one) with the following. It becomes more complex when varieties, soil type and irrigation are taken into consideration but in general, this recommendation provides good results. This is due to the response by the plants for every product applied. Plants become overwhelmed with several activations internally resulting in a drawback rather than a benefit particularly where products claim to have several benefits to the crop by affecting the plants immune and other systems. Results from experimental trials across the country have shown that a well-balanced multi-nutrient package product is adequate to provide the desirable results for correcting deficiencies and supporting a continuous growth. One of such products is PotiZon® by Crop Intellect which was developed specifically for the potato crop. It satisfies the nutrient requirements and it contains amino acids associated with tuber formation and uniform development. Furthermore, it contains a patented technology that increases chlorophyll content and plant productivity resulting in increased tuber number and quality. External efficacy results confirmed consistency in higher tuber numbers and a narrow size distribution. This is the result of a continuous growth rather than stop-start. Applying this product or others early is appropriate, with the first fungicide application, even when the canopy is small as 10cm above ground is actually 30cm of stem all together. At that stage many of the decisions of the plant

as to how many tubers and how its development will be shaped later are made. Due to the high inputs typically applied in the soil at planting, feeding the plant with the appropriate micronutrients foliarly is key to ensure robust early development. PotiZon® has also demonstrated better nitrogen uptake efficiency. Calcium is another essential element associated with reducing defects and improving the crop physiological characteristics. Applications of calcium nitrate in the soil are not recommended as at the typical level the nitrogen content is high and causes the opposite effect than expected. There is no adequate calcium to strengthen the plant compared to the effect of canopy growth by the nitrogen. A foliar product such as TECAL® incorporates an activator system that increases the calcium uptake and cell wall content applied at 1-2lt/ha. Foliar applications do little for increasing the calcium content of the tubers but they significantly support the development of the tubers and their quality characteristics through a more robust foliage (see previous publications for details). Although early, it is appropriate to consider the crop following potatoes with emphasis on the soil sustainability. Growing potatoes has a significant negative effect on soil structure, organic matter and soil biology. Choosing a crop that supports soil structural development will not be a good economic choice in the short term but it will certainly sustain the productivity of that field. Any management practices to reduce the effect on soil structure when growing potatoes should be evaluated and implemented. Our experienced team at Crop Intellect will be happy to answer enquiries and provide more details on the topic particularly for the application of nutrition on potatoes. For mor information visit www.cropintellect.co.uk

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| Root Crops

Pack house refits on a budget While nobody believes 2016 is going to be a great year for potato growers, if your pack house is in need of a refit, David Harrison Handling Solutions have the answer. hilst full refits with new kit are viable when market prices are good, more straightened times demand a smarter approach” explains Gary Palmer. “We have seen many market ups and downs in the forty years since David Harrison started his potato machinery business near Ely and it’s when budgets are tight our phones get busy with customers who know that besides new machinery, we are active in buying and refurbishing good used kit. “Consequently we can save them up to 50% of their costs.

Besides building their own conveyors and elevators, Harrisons also enjoy good Gary Palmer and refurbished grader

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a mix of conveyors or specialist weighing/ bagging kit plus newer items such as box tippers or screens. “In this case we can check and refurbish the latter and replace the older kit with either new or rebuilt kit from our stock. The result is a successful mix of new and rebuilt or refurbished machinery to meet

future needs but with serious saving on your investment.” The Tong Caretaker Classic in the photo has been stripped and re-sprayed. The belts have been replaced and pollution control upgraded. It has been completely rewired and fitted with axle and wheels for mobility. Another current example is an O&P computerised palletiser. This has handled many thousands of bags over its 10 year life but is now undergoing complete refurbishment. Either of these units could save a customer around 40% on the price of a brand new machine. Besides building their own conveyors and elevators, Harrisons also enjoy good

relations with major machinery manufacturers, often buying popular units at attractive prices in quieter production periods which can be passed on to the benefit of our customers. David Harrison Handling Systems offer a full planning service and costing service. They are UK agents for Symach Palletisers, O&P Palletisers, Propak bagger weighers and The Sack Filling Company’s stitching and bagging lines. Details of current used and rebuilt stock can be found on davidharrisons.com. Gary can be contacted on 07711 329 252 or 01353 740666

April 2016 | Farming Monthly | 23

| Root Crops

Call for expert attention in store following extreme seasonal challenges for GB potato stocks “The industry cannot continue to stand the storage losses it’s seen this season. We need early adopters of best practice on board,” asserted Simon Alexander, renowned Norfolk-based potato consultant, calling the industry to action at the annual AHDB Potatoes’ Storage Forum. n a difficult 2015/16 storage season, AHDB’s event, hosted by Sutton Bridge Crop Storage Research (SBCSR) at the start of March, brought timely encouragement to address industry concerns. Elaborating on his personal experience in the Norfolk area, Simon Alexander reported, “It’s hard to say, but the worst losses I have had due to rots could probably add up to 10-15%, with the primary villains being the high temperature and high ambient humidity leading to a protracted drying period. “The ideal is to have the crops dried within 3 weeks, but we were seeing 4 and even 5 week drying periods at the outset. And the subsequent lack of cool, and most importantly dry, air over the winter months limited our opportunities as store managers to dry out the crops without then hitting dew point.” “We received pre-Christmas reports from the worst hit stores of crop breakdowns to such an extent that some stores had to be unloaded,” added Adrian Cunnington, head of SBCSR. “However with AHDB’s stocks survey averages showing around 1.9 million tonnes still being held in store at the end of January, expert store management is still a critical area for attention. “Dealing with the consequences of the mild, external, over-winter climatic conditions in store is now the reality for many growers.” Delegates were segmented into small group workshops on rots, directed to enabling store managers to identify and assess threats, keep tuber quality consistent and ultimately reduce waste and losses. “It was interesting to hear what others recommended in difficult circumstances,” concluded Richard Wilson of R S Cockerill, York. “Ideas such as utilisation of industrial dehumidifying units and, in some cases, a real commercial advantage of manual over automatic store control to maintain a sound, dry crop.” Summarising the outcomes of the multiple groups, Mr Cunnington added, “The consensus from the forum workshops was to concentrate effort into ventilating any ‘wet’

areas of the store using all the tools available to limit spread. “However, established bacterial rots in crops at processing storage temperatures will usually gather momentum over time, so there also needs to be some recognition that storage life is likely to be limited.” The event also offered tools and guidance targeted to ensure stores are economically efficient, costeffective and prepared to be compliant with new statutory regulations, such as impending label requirements for active recirculation of CIPC. “As stocks begin to unload, we’re heading into an opportune time to get ready to do work on empty stores in May and June in preparation for next season before the busy harvest period begins.” explained Rob Clayton, strategy director for AHDB Potatoes, in the opening session of the day. “You here are the risk takers, sales agents, merchants, and capital investors – the people who have to make storage pay. Look closely at the efficiency of your storage. Returns can be significantly improved by controlling costs and making the store work more effectively.” Helping store operators to get a strong grip of their storage costs, Nick Blake of Andersons Eastern presented the new AHDB Storage Cost Calculator, available to download free in accessible excel format from the AHDB Potatoes website (potatoes.ahdb.org.uk/storagecalculator). “It’s a simple, one-page tool that can be populated using basic financial information and the results can really support potato growers in working out the margins or value required for long term and late season decisions,” enthused Mr Blake. The day turned to issues of store design and Shropshire grower Michael Bubb (J M Bubb & Sons), McCain’s Southern Grower of the Year 2012, gave a compelling summary of why his business chose to invest in new bulk storage facilities. “It was expensive but we couldn’t see the point in compromising what we wanted to achieve for our customers. We opted for a turn-key solution which meant every facet of the shed and equipment was designed to fit together perfectly.

24 | Farming Monthly | April 2016

“The required ventilation characteristics were the primary consideration, however the approach we took meant the store design and the equipment complemented each other to enable much of the equipment within to qualify for capital allowances. ”We calculated the investment at £178/tonne for the store in 2011 and £158/tonne (after grants) in 2014.” When probed by the delegates if he would embark on the same investment endeavour again, Mr Bubb replied, “Just try doing nothing and see what happens.” Mr Cunnington closed the day with an update on the on-going Storage 2020 campaign, intended to drive store improvements on an industry scale. Reminding the audience of the need to look long-term, Mr Cunnington said, “The evidence from surveys at BP2015 showed that 1/3 of respondents had not

worked on their stores in the last 3 years. “Your stores, however, are as important for investment attention as any other piece of agricultural kit or machinery and areas of slow development over the last 10 years are actually potential opportunities for progress too. “The forum created real impact with over 63% of polled delegates claiming they would change their working practices as a result of attending the event,” reported Dr Cunnington on the results of formal feedback. “For those who missed the chance to be present however, copies of the presentations and selected videos will be available on the AHDB Potatoes website at potatoes.ahdb.org.uk in the coming days.”

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| Root Crops

Benefits stack up by listening to the market HK Timbers new Managing Director, Richard Bundock, expains. t was very exciting joining HK just before Christmas. HK Timbers is the market leading company within this sector and through our new pricing policy, while retaining all the excellent quality and service elements, we are seeing great growth within the business.” “One of the highlights of my job is talking to our customers and listening to their thoughts on the market. By listening to our customers and the wider agricultural sector, we are now working hard on some very exciting plans to grow the business further with new products and I look forward to meeting and talking to more of you in the coming days, weeks and years.’ HK Timbers is an award winning company who specialise in the production of large and bespoke strong timber potato boxes and vegetable crates, which are mainly used in the agriculture and horticulture sector for safely storing and transporting vegetable products whilst allowing air to flow through. The BS7611 standard was introduced in 1992 at the request of the Potato Marketing Board and the Health and Safety Executive. It is primarily concerned with ensuring that potato storage boxes are strong enough to withstand the loads and forces of handling and stacking. HK Timbers were one of the few manufacturers involved in the standard's formation and as one of only two manufacturers who can test their boxes to BS7611, everyone else is guessing

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their boxes meet the standard. With over 40 years in this business, HK Timber products is recognised nationally as leaders in quality, service and value in the industry. Their state of the art technology allows them to produce in excess of 100,000 boxes a year and they have the unique ability to store up to 25,000 boxes on site at any one time, allowing orders to be delivered when required. HK Timbers products are predominantly made from imported timber which is proven to last much longer than home grown timber. Many of their customers still have boxes in use today which are more than 15 years old (some as old as 30 years…) proving their products are a sound investment. Manufacturing potato boxes is, as one would expect, a very seasonal business, the busiest part of the year being April /May through to early November. There are therefore significant financial advantages for both customer and supplier should purchases be made out of season between November and March. HK Timbers can often offer extended credit terms during the out of season period along with a discounted price, especially if early physical delivery is considered. Located just outside Gainsborough in Lincolnshire, the company is ideally situated close to the A1, M1, M180 and M62. This relatively central position provides easy access to the whole country for distribution purposes. Delivery can be provided or customers can arrange their own transportation if they wish.

“One of the highlights of my job is talking to our customers and listening to their thoughts on the market” Services offered by HK Timbers include: • Unique farm specific box design • Stencil farm name on the boxes • Customer specific designs such as a logo • Numbering • Bar-coding • Plastic identification strips • Supplying in Flat Pack

April 2016 | Farming Monthly | 25

| Root Crops

Tong partners up Tong announces broader vegetable processing portfolio through partnership with Marcelissen. ong Engineering has announced a new range of vegetable processing equipment, to be added to the company’s existing portfolio of processing machinery. The addition of specialist processing equipment is the latest development to the company’s product range, following their partnership with Netherlandsbased food processing equipment manufacturer, Marcelissen. The new range of equipment will enable Tong to integrate additional processes within its vegetable handling lines, including crop peeling, cutting and slicing, as well as slither removal and optical grading of peeled product. “With the prepared produce market continuing to experience growth in-line with ongoing consumer trends towards convenience products, Tong has seen an increase in demand for turnkey vegetable peeling and

processing installations," explained Charles Tong, Chairman at Tong Engineering. "With this in mind, we made the decision to identify a reliable partner who could offer us a broader range of equipment specifically designed for the peeling and processing sector." "Marcelissen were a natural choice for us as we have worked with their peeling and processing equipment previously, and are now very pleased to be appointed UK distributor of their highly-respected machines," added Charles. "From a range of vegetable peelers, to cutting machines, slither removers and optical grading equipment designed specifically for peeled crop, the new additions to our existing processing range will bring our customers even more processing options when they choose Tong." "Built to the highest standards, our equipment ensures the highest yields for customers, with minimal waste and exceptionally low

Haith Multi-wash e at Haith are constantly working on new designs which will not only improve pack out and quality, but also give reduced energy costs lower water usage and save labour,our latest concept the Haith Muli-wash ticks all the boxes and with our all in one process transfer of vegetables from one section to the next is very gentle. Haith Multi-Wash System offers De-stoning-barrel washing and brush polishing all in one unit, the latest and important upgrade is the split barrel which allows the washing section to rotate in the

cutting machine to suit all types of vegetables." Removing 'slither' from crop after processing helps to ensure crop is in optimum condition prior to packing and the company's slither removers are capable of effectively processing up to 20 tonnes of crop per hour. "We are well-known for our grading expertise, and Marcelissen's optical grader for peeled product, which sorts crop on size, quality and shape, will complete our grading capabilities in all crop situations, from dirty through to peeled," added Charles. "We very much look forward to offering our vegetable processing customers an even wider product range that adds value to their crop." For more information on Tong’s complete range of vegetable handling equipment visit www.tongengineering.com or call +44(0)1790 752771.

In the ever demanding vegetable packing industry companies are always looking to increase margins by reducing the amount of waste while improving the quality of the product supplied to the end user.

opposite direction to the polishing rollers there is a separate inverter speed control on each section giving more flexibility and control over the amount of washing and polishing required. included in the system is a waste removal tank with water recycling, the compact all in one plug and play design makes installation and set up very simple, there are a number of options and configurations available to suit your specific requirements. There is a feature on the control to allow simple and fast emptying of the system when changing verieties. This new vegetable washing

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maintenance," said Bob Treuen, Sales Manager at Marcelissen. "What’s more, our peelers not only enhance the finished appearance of crop, but also help to double or even triple product shelf life." The vegetable peelers are suitable for use on a wide range of crop including potatoes, onions, carrots, parsnips and more. The company's drum roller peeler gives customers a perfectly round peeled finish with minimal waste. Finished quality is controlled and fine-tuned within the machine’s controls, where peeling time, peeling intensity and rotation settings can be adjusted for the best possible results. Another popular peeling option is the knife peeler, which gives a high quality hand-peeled finish, making the peeled crop look more authentic. "As well as reliable peeling equipment, we are happy to offer vegetable cutting machinery that keeps apace with today's prepared produce requirements," said Charles. "Dicing, slicing and stickcutting is increasingly popular, and Marcelissen offers a number of vegetable cutters that suit a wide variety of throughput requirements. From high capacity hydro cutters, to 3D cutters and belt slicing machines, there is a

concept combines all the proven qualities of the popular Haith Supaflume De-stoner with excellent wash quality of the Haith Semi-Submerged barrel washer whilst incorporating polishing with the tried and tested direct drive Haith Root-veg Polisher. Vegetables are immediately introduced to water as they enter the integral de-stoner, stones and clods are removed before the crop is gently flume fed into the wash barrel. When heavy soil is present and a robust wash is required the water level can be raised so the pintle lined wash barrel is semisubmerged in water, the rubber scroll moves the potatoes through

the barrel while the high pressure spray bar works with the rubber pintle to remove engrained dirt from the eyes. The flexibility of the Multi-Wash enables the water level to be lowered, in this mode the potatoes can be sprayed with fresh water. The next stage in the washing process, potatoes are gently transferred out of the barrel via an all new cone feeder which uses a soft rubber scroll to deliver the potatoes to brush polisher rollers, directly driven by high efficiency SEW motors, here minor skin defects can be removed and the general appearance of the crop is lifted.

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| Grass & Silage

SRUC, Crichton Royal plays host to ScotGrass 2016 The AEA is delighted to announce this year’s ScotGrass event is returning to Acrehead Farm, at the SRUC Dairy Research Unit, Crighton Royal Dumfries on Wednesday 18th May. he event sponsored by Volac gives farmers and contractors an opportunity to see new technology at work and gives them the platform to think of different ways of making more from grass this coming season. Event organiser Duncan Russell said, “ScotGrass 2016 is on course to be even bigger than the last event and we are delighted to be making a return to Crichton Royal and that SRUC and farms manager Hugh McClymont have agreed to host the event. They are reporting good grass growth and Hugh is confident that with some dry weather the site will be in excellent condition with plenty of grass for the event.” Alongside the working demonstrations the Knowledge Trail will include five stations. The Conservation station will give practical help on forage and the event partner Volac will be on hand to give advice on the best

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way of conserve crops. The grass variety station focus will be to look at new and improved grass varieties and how to achieve the know-how with new grass and forage varieties to make the most of growing crops. A Controlled Traffic Farming stage is about protecting soil structure for maximum crop performance. This station will look at work done on the farm to manage where machines go in the field, not just when conserving forage but throughout the farming year. A soil pit station will look at the farms soil structure and finally, there is a station dedicated to Cut and Carry, supported by AHDB Dairy which will look at ways to get fresh grass in front of the cows. “ScotGrass 2016 is ideally placed for farmers and contractors from Scotland, England and Northern Ireland and will give them the opportunity to see new technology at work in practical farm conditions,” added Mr Russell.

Key Facts Event Location: Acre Head Farm, Glencaple Road, Dumfries, DG1 4AS, follow the road signs. Time: 8am – 4pm for demonstrations (5pm for static exhibitors) Cost £10 on the gate per car, or £7.50 per car by pre booking on the website. For further information and to buy tickets visit www.scotgrass.co.uk follow @ScotGrass on Twitter #scotgrass2016 , call 0845 4900 142

April 2016 | Farming Monthly | 27

| Grass & Silage

Krone to debut Big X 630 & ActiveMow at ScotGrass Scotgrass 2016 is the venue for Krone UK to exhibit a number of hay and forage equipment including mowers, tedders, rakes, round balers, square balers, forage wagons and forage harvesters. On display for the first time will be the BiG X 630 and the ActiveMow. ne of nine models in the range, BiG X 630 is the largest powered BiG X with the narrow body and is powered by an MTU 6R 1500 15.6 l six cylinder engine. Power can be matched to crop yield using PowerSplit feature that has two operating modes Eco-Power 460hp and X-Power 596 hp. As a result of 710 / 70 R 42 front

tyres and a choice of rear tyres fitted to the wishbone suspended axle, road and field work has been significantly improved. The cab features a large touch screen terminal and Krone joystick for easy and comfortable operation. The BiG X 630 features the new MaxFlow chopping drum with a choice of 20, 28 or 36 knives providing a chop length ranging from 3mm to 31mm. The drum has twice the crop carrying capacity

giving it a significant efficiency boost. VariQuick allows the corn conditioner to be engaged and disengaged in a matter of minutes. A useful feature for opening up maize fields is StreamControl, which adjusts the force of the crop flow, allowing it to be blown further. Scotgrass working plots will see the ActiveMow R 280 making its debut, with a 2.8m working width. It is a simple robust design that provides a side pivoting mower

bed and spring suspensions that makes it ideal for small to medium farmers. ActiveMow now features SafeCut disc protection system and SmartCut mower bed with optimised disc overlap for difficult conditions. There are now five models in the range (2.0m to 3.6m), which replaces the AM mowers.

Bale wrapping economy Now is the time to review how you wrap bales and if there is a way of reducing cost of fuel and labour. ith the ever increasing size of tractors, average over 150 horse power sold last year, it is easy to forget how much fuel is used on some of the basic farm tasks. Does it only take one person to travel to farm or field to wrap and stack or are two or more people required even if only for setting up?

If you already use a power pack now is the time to give it a service If your farm is in one of these categories why not have a look at a purpose built small horse power power pack that can be fitted directly on the wrapper or set down beside it. There may also be a winter use on the log splitter or other equipment. If wrapping in a building then consider an electric power pack. No fumes, quieter and less maintenance. If you already use a power pack

28 | Farming Monthly | April 2016

now is the time to give it a service. Generally these units have air cooled engines. They have cowling that needs to be removed and all dust and debris blown out from around the cylinders and oil cooler. Change engine oil and fit a new filter. Fuel filter will also need replacing to prevent the embarrassment of a blocked filter in the middle of a wrapping session. A spare filter in the workshop might be a good idea. Check the air intake filter or oil bath. It may have a foam filter requiring a clean. These air filters require a daily check during the season. Don't forget the hydraulic oil filter. These are often paper filters and only have a limited working life. An annual change is recommended. The battery may not have been charged prior to storing the wrapper and will need a check. For more information on wrapper power packs visit www.powerwrap.eu or call David Lupton 07968873942.

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| Grass & Silage

MAJOR Cyclone to hit the rushes! The problem of rush infestation is a constant headache for farmers. They can quickly infest a field if not managed and use up the foods, space, light and moisture which should nourish profitable crops. They make harvesting difficult and reduce the grazing value of land. he traditional flail mower has until recently been the machine of choice for the clearance of rushes, scrub and small trees. However the fuel consumption costs and the slow pace of work associated with using a flail for heavy ground clearance has encouraged farmers to look to other alternatives. Lynda Brewster from Bedlormie Mains Farm, West Lothian took delivery of a MAJOR 3m Cyclone mower in September last year to replace her flail mower. Major Equipment Ltd developed the MAJOR Cyclone mower specifically for use in set-aside, forestry margin management and scrubland control. “The pace of work is swift,” said Ms Brewster. “We use our Cyclone mower to clear rushes and small trees around the farm.” The double chop blades leave the cut material completely shredded and evenly dispersed behind the tractor. The MAJOR Cyclone easily copes with the toughest of

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conditions including shrub, saplings, gorse and brush as well as the clearance of arable stubble, including maize and rapeseed crops, yet the power requirement is up to 30% less than that

required by a flail mower. “Our 100HP tractor copes very easily, in really heavy cutting,” explained Ms Brewster, “and we have managed to cut our fuel bill too.”

There are four models available; a 2m, 2.5m, 3m and 5.5m model. Call Major on 01524 850501 to arrange a demonstration or visit www.major-equipment.com

April 2016 | Farming Monthly | 29

| Grass & Silage

Don’t risk grassland yield in 2016! Reliable evidence from the British Survey of Fertiliser Practice illustrates the decline in grassland liming. ecent trends show a largely unchanged situation for grassland liming in recent years, as shown in table 1: The data emphasises a significant reduction in grassland liming since 2000. Is it sustainable that less than 5 in 100 acres is currently receiving pH correction? Data collected via the comprehensive PAAG 2014 survey shows the pH trends for grassland and arable land (197K soil pH samples). In summary, nearly 60% of grassland was found to be below pH 6.0, and this will significantly impact on the efficient utilisation of N, P and K. Indications are that our grasslands are becoming more acidic, and this will adversely affect sward composition, leading to decline in grassland yield and quality. Furthermore, nitrogen applications increase the natural rate of soil acidification, and cut herbage (i.e. silage) removes significantly larger quantities of calcium when compared to other crops. Therefore, regular pH testing and corrective liming are required to ensure consequential loss of yield and reduced forage quality are avoided by maintaining soil pH at an appropriate level, such that other macro and micro nutrients are available to the growing crop. LimeX is the ideal product for fast acting, but lasting pH correction on grassland, and can be used in organic farming systems. Furthermore, the integral nutrient package within LimeX contributes to maintaining soil fertility by supplying valuable quantities of P2O5, MgO and SO3. For example, a ‘maintenance’ application of LimeX70 at 5/t ha will supply a minimum of: • 50kg P2O5 • 35kg MgO • 30kg SO3 These nutrients are typically worth £50-60 per hectare. LimeX is available to order now for this spring and early summer. For more information contact 0870 2402314, or visit: limex.co.uk

Table 1: Liming trends from the British Survey of Fertiliser Practice

Table 2: 2014 PAAG data for soil pH

BGS launches Grassland Farmer of the Year 2016 The ‘Grassland Farmer of the Year’ competition run by the British Grassland Society and sponsored by DLF and Yara was launched recently. he hunt is on to find the grassland champion for 2016, and is open to entries from affiliated Local Grassland Societies and BGS members in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. The prize-winning farmer will be someone who demonstrates overall excellence in grassland management and who runs profitable and sustainable farming practices. Previous winners include many of the UK’s top dairy, sheep and beef farmers. They have all

demonstrated excellence in their grazing, soil and nutrient management, reseeding policy, silage-making or alternative cropping, livestock production and environmental considerations, whilst still making a profit. The judging panel this year will consist of head judge Glasnant Morgan, who is a former competition winner and beef and sheep farmer from Powys, John Read of seeds company DLF, John Moore of fertiliser manufacturer Yara and last year’s winner Colin Boggs, a dairy farmer from Northern Ireland. Over the coming months,

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Regional Council Members of the British Grassland Society will organise the judging of local society winners across their area, and inform BGS of the regional winner going through to the national stage of the competition. The competition winner holds the title and glass trophy for a year, and also receives a cheque for £500. Key dates for 2016 Friday 3 June – Local Grassland Societies to notify their Regional Council Member of their winner (excluding Wales where dates are set by the Federation of Welsh Grassland Societies).

Friday 15 July – Regional Council Members to notify BGS of their regional winner. Monday 15 and Tuesday 16 August – National judging takes place to select the overall winner for 2016. Entrants must be available for the judges to visit the farm on one of these dates. For full details about the competition, how to enter and a list of Regional Council Members, please visit the British Grassland Society website www.britishgrassland.com or contact Rachel Mumford at BGS on rachel@britishgrassland.com

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| Grass & Silage

Be aware of potential silage pitfalls of this season’s forward grass growth Dairy and other livestock farmers facing this season’s widespread forward grass growth need to be aware of the pitfalls this could pose to silage making, if they are to maximise silage yield and quality, says Ecosyl product manager Derek Nelson. ccording to Mr Nelson, old grass that has continued growing through the winter will not only be of poorer quality than fresher grass, in terms of energy and protein, but will also have a higher loading of naturallypresent undesirable microorganisms that could add to clamp losses. “Wherever you have old grass that has been growing since autumn, it is of poorer quality,” he says. “Instead of having young, leafy growth, some of it will be dying back, which provides nutrients for a wide range of bacteria and fungi to grow on. This will increase the numbers on the crop at harvest, increasing the risk of a poor fermentation and reducing aerobic stability at feedout, both of which

will lead to significantly higher losses. “If slurry is also applied too close to grass cutting, this adds to the problem by introducing more undesirable bacteria, such as enterobacteria and clostridia. “Also, compared to shorter and more open grass crops, thicker grass crops create an ideal microclimate for undesirable microorganisms to thrive. Extended wilting will encourage their growth further. “In these circumstances, it is even more important that wilting is rapid and the clamp filled and sealed quickly. This will be particularly effective at limiting yeast and mould activity. “But you also need to ensure the fermentation gets going quickly as a rapid pH fall will inhibit the undesirable bacteria”, adds Mr Nelson. “This is brought about by

lactic acid bacteria, which are normally in short supply on fresh crops. An effective silage inoculant will apply large numbers of specially selected strains of lactic acid bacteria, ensuring a fast, efficient fermentation that will inhibit the undesirable bacteria quickly. “This will reduce DM losses but has other benefits too as it preserves more true protein and increases digestibility, both of which are beneficial for animal

performance. “A good quality silage inoculant offers benefits even in good silagemaking conditions, but the benefits can be even more obvious in seasons like this when grass growth is more challenging. “Bear in mind that all inoculants are not the same, so always check there is independent evidence to back any claims, especially those for improved animal performance,” he adds.

IBERS forage research Greater profitability and reduced environmental impact from livestock farming are key objectives for a new three year forage breeding research project that started in February 2016 at IBERS Aberystwyth University. unded by Innovate UK and sponsored by Germinal, the project will lead to the development of new varieties of perennial ryegrass and white clover that combine the best in yield and quality attributes with enhanced nitrogen and phosphorus utilisation. Ultimately, this research will give livestock farmers the opportunity to produce quality forage with lower nitrogen and phosphate fertiliser inputs, thereby saving costs whilst reducing any negative environmental impact caused by nutrient leaching, run-off and potential greenhouse gas emissions. “IBERS has led the way in developing and applying innovative plant breeding techniques over the last three decades, producing many of the leading forage grasses and clovers now on the official Recommended Lists,” says Paul

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Billings, managing director of Germinal GB. “This latest project will build on that heritage, drawing on this established genetic material as well as new germplasm, to create new varieties with the added advantage of nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) and phosphorus use efficiency (PUE). “This is an example of vital nearmarket research that will deliver tangible benefits, not only for livestock farmers but also for the environment. Both aspects are important in the context of long term sustainable livestock farming.” IBERS plant breeders will use a combination of conventional and innovative marker-assisted (MAS) approaches to improve the speed and precision of selecting varieties for NUE and PUE. The work will apply to both perennial ryegrass and white clover, where the potential for greater NUE and PUE has already been identified.

April 2016 | Farming Monthly | 31

| Arable

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| Energy

Farmers rally to support AD in Parliament Earlier this month over 150 farmers, who were either operators or investors in the anaerobic digestion (AD) industry, descended on the Houses of Parliament in numbers that demanded the attention of policymakers. oined by over 60 Westminster MPs and Peers – including Defra’s Secretary of State, Liz Truss MP; Shadow Farming Minister, Nick Smith MP; and the Chairs of both the Environment and Energy Select Committees (Neil Parish MP and Angus MacNeil MP) – the event sought to engage political leaders with a simple message: AD is much more than just a source of baseload renewable energy. It integrates into agricultural businesses, whatever the farm produces. A sustainable farming industry needs anaerobic digestion, and the Committee on Climate Change says the UK needs it to meet our carbon commitments. Small-scale on-farm AD delivers more than just baseload energy; recognition of the numerous nonenergy benefits should ensure that AD is commercially viable for farmers. AD’s non-energy benefits, which every UK household benefits from, include: improved farm resilience; improved soil health and therefore food production through nutrient-rich

biofertiliser and sustainable crop rotation models; carbon abatement (particularly vital for decarbonising heat, transport and farming); and enhanced UK selfsufficiency through meeting more of our own domestic energy and food needs. The UK’s agricultural AD market has grown impressively since 2010: there are now over 180 onfarm AD plants, compared to around 30 six years ago. Farms across the UK have been taking advantage of the technology for a variety of reasons, as a result of which there are now more AD plants in agriculture than in any other sector. Steep degression in financial incentives for small-scale renewable technologies is, however, preventing many farmers from diversifying into on-farm AD. ADBA is asking the Government to make the additional funding it has already committed to renewable heat available to support smallerscale on farm AD. In the meantime, farmers considering investing in AD technology should explore what potential feedstocks there are available to them (on-site and from neighbouring farmers) and what

type of AD equipment would best suit this mix. Further information can be found using our free independent, expert Farmers’ Consultancy Service or by coming to our international trade show event, UK AD & Biogas 2016, in Birmingham on 6-7 July, where farmers can find out more about the technology available, how to maximise value from a farm’s on-site resources, what the Environment Agency will require and get free advice about putting together a business plan and raising finance. In particular, our annual Farmers’ Breakfast Briefing on 6th July from 8.30am at UK AD & Biogas will help the farming community – both those looking to learn more as well as existing

operators – engage with the challenges, issues and benefits of managing and engaging with the AD process. With first-hand case studies on issues like the best feedstocks to use, maximising gas yields, capturing heat and developing business plans, this informal Breakfast Briefing will offer an opportunity to network and learn best practice from experienced farming operators. Visit adbioresources.org/uk-adbiogas-2016

Why are anaerobic digestion and farming the perfect mix? Providing an on-farm source of energy: On-site gas, vehicle fuel, heat and/or electricity – farmers can generate renewable energy to use in their own operations or sell to the gas or electricity grids Supporting food production: Nutrient-rich biofertiliser – known as “digestate”, AD produces a biofertiliser which can replace artificial fertilisers to provide crop nutrients. Ideal component for profitable crop rotation – AD also helps make break, catch and cover crops economic for farmers, which can increase subsequent yields of food crops, tackle the spread of persistent problems such as nematodes and blackgrass or make unproductive marginal land viable. Abating greenhouse gas emissions: Non-energy carbon reduction – AD reduces emissions from rotting manure and farm wastes, as well as providing low-carbon fertiliser. The Committee on Climate Change has advised that it needs to be used more widely on farms to meet the fifth carbon budget. Improving community relations: Odour reduction – AD digesters capture the odours from decaying wastes and, if treated correctly, produce an odour-free digestate. Rural jobs – the industry already sustains 4,000 largely rural jobs and could create a further 30,000.

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April 2016 | Farming Monthly | 33

| Energy

edie Live 2016 opens for registration Registration is now open for the UK's leading event for energy, sustainability and resource efficiency professionals, offering visitors a host of new features, networking events and high-level keynote stage. die Live 2016, formerly known as Sustainability Live, returns to the NEC Birmingham on 17-18 May, connecting people with the information, ideas and suppliers they need to make their business more sustainable. Amanda Barnes, chief executive of edie Live organiser Faversham House, said: “edie.net has been serving this very audience for over 17 years as the UK’s leading digital resource. The launch of edie Live, building on the rich heritage and success of NEMEX, Energy Recovery and Sustainability Live, simply extends the essential business information we provide 24/7, 365 days a year through online, print and our portfolio of conferences and awards, to one holistic, two-day event.” Seminars and theatre

The edie Live 2016 exhibition and conference will feature three practical, CPD-accredited seminar theatres, based on the key industry themes of energy efficiency, on-site solutions and resource efficiency. Seminar session titles include ‘Putting the O in ESOS’, ‘Next generation: leading the way in onsite renewables’, and ‘Making waste fashionable’. Running alongside these seminars will be a free, strategic edie Leaders theatre, helping delegates understand the broader risks and opportunities for driving profit, innovation and brand value through sustainability leadership. Leaders theatre session titles include ‘Inside the mind of the finance director’ and ‘Making it happen: first steps to a new business model’. Meanwhile, SMEs that have developed green technologies, systems or business models are

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being invited to enter the Innovation Zone competition, which is designed to promote and support innovation in the sustainability space. Submitting an entry for the 2016 Innovation Zone is free of charge, with the deadline set at 18 March. Industry imperatives On the edie Live show floors, Topic Trails will make a return visit this year, offering visitors free information-packed maps to guide visitors to the exhibitors who can answer specific questions and demonstrate their products and technologies. “edie Live will cater for anyone whose organisation has to deal with the strategic as well as the practical aspects of sustainable business and resource efficiency – be it energy management, water, waste, corporate and social responsibility, or low carbon,” added Barnes. “The show will cover three imperatives of the

industry: bottom line, compliance and reputation. It’s about driving organisations or businesses to look for higher profits in a sustainable manner, complying with legislative demands and ensuring that their reputation is protected.” Register now for your free edie Live 2016 entry badge and the full programme. The entry badge gives you unlimited access to: • Three practical seminar theatres – energy efficiency, resource efficiency and onsite solutions • The edie Sustainability Leaders keynote stage • Professional advice clinics • Innovation Zone and technology showcases • Hundreds of new products and services For more information on edie Live 2016, including the full seminar and Leaders theatre programme, visit www.edielive.net

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| Energy

John Rennie & Sons combines AD with Wolf Power Systems CHP plant for more efficiency By Jacob de Mol, Sales International, Wolf Power Systems. new combined heat and power (CHP) plant will help John Rennie & Sons (Farmers) Ltd generate renewable electricity. Running off biogas from an existing anaerobic digestion (AD) plant, the expected output is 550kW, of which 500kW will be exported to the national grid. The rest is used to run the facility.

“We have managed to reduce our fertiliser bill by 90% and have gone carbon neutral” The CHP plant was built by Dreyer & Bosse, part of Wolf Power Systems, a pioneer in combining heat and power generation, at Gask Farm in Turriff, Aberdeenshire, an arable and pig farm run by John Rennie & Sons. Gask Farm has already been operating an AD plant for 10 years, using about 15,000 tons of

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feedstock, consisting mostly of food waste and abattoir material, with some of the farm’s own pig slurry used as well. The AD process produces 67% methane and 32% carbon dioxide. The methane has so far powered two 230kW engines and one 110kW CHP plant (also Dreyer & Bosse technology). The new CHP plant will be more efficient and have lower running costs. Having already worked with Dreyer & Bosse technology for over ten years, John Rennie & Sons liked the reliability of the company’s engine and didn’t consider anything else. Anaerobic digestion is a great way for managing local waste streams and reducing the emission of methane (a greenhouse gas) into the atmosphere. The CHP is a very important part in the process using AD with CHP units ensures the effective use of biogas. The methane is converted into electricity, but the CHP also produces a lot of hot water, which

CHP plant at Gask Farm (copyright: Wolf Power Systems)

is used to keep the digester at a constant 40°C. Some of the hot water is also used by an on-site pasteurisation plant, which heats up the digestate to over 70°C and thereby kills any pathogens which may have been in the animal byproducts or food waste. The digestate can then replace mineral fertilisers – another win for the environment. “I think it is great that we can

take the energy out of the waste streams, put it through the CHP and clean the digestate up again with its own energy and still be left with a good, clean and nutritious fertilizer to grow next year’s crops. By doing this we have managed to reduce our fertiliser bill by 90% and have gone carbon neutral”, says Andrew Rennie, Managing Director at John Rennie & Sons.

April 2016 | Farming Monthly | 35

| Muck & Slurry

New Tramspread Vogelsang 12m BackPac Tramspread has collaborated with Vogelsang to produce a new 12m BackPac Dribble Bar. he system combines a Vogelsang 12m Dribble Bar with a Tramspread 1000m Random Wrap reeler. Its design allows the transport of both applicator and hose reeler on a single linkage. The applicator is mounted on a heavy duty three point linkage, and combines a rear mounted male Q-fit A-frame to allow the “backpacking” of the Tramspread reeler. The Vogelsang 12m dribble bar has a galvanised steel frame and the market leading ExaCut distributor with 48 outlets at 40mm Ø, the scope to handle up to 300cu an hour and the design to cope with foreign bodies, making the Vogelsang range of dribble bars user friendly. Other unique befits to the range includes stiffer pipe end outlets that can be run on the ground but does not affect the accuracy of placement, all stay

36 | Farming Monthly | April 2016

equally at 25cm spacing, keeping crop growth even. The Tramspread reeler has a detachable spool which is easily removed from the robust carrying frame by removing two securing pins, lowering to the ground and moving away. One frame can serve several spools. The spool is rotated by twin hydraulic motors which allow longer lengths of drag hose to be recovered at any one time. It can comfortably hold up to either 1000m of 4”, 1000m of 5”, 800m of 6” hose or a mixture of both when using the easily attached partitions. The new machine was recently displayed for the first time on Tramspread’s stand at the LAMMA show and received great acclaim. Further information available by calling Tel: 01449 766133, email: enquiries@tramspread.co.uk or visit www.tramspread.co.uk

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| Muck & Slurry

Storth at Pig & Poultry Slurry handling specialist Storth Machinery based in Holme, Cumbria will be exhibiting at the Pig & Poultry show stand number 184 where our expert team will be available to discuss the ideal solutions for your waste management systems. s part of our extensive product portfolio, we offer a range of safe storage solutions which include the 3, 4 and 5 ring high quality storage tanks; made of enamelled glass coated steel for longer life with the flexibility to extend in the future, and can also be covered should this be a requirement to reduce the gas and ammonia emissions by over 95%. We can offer a full turnkey installation service, on this safer option compared to a low level alternative. We also recently launched a range of Quality British built Mobile Nurse Tanks to aid the umbilical spreading of slurry and/or digestate in fields which are far from the farm or biogas plant. The new tanks are designed for efficiency of flow and personal safety. The Nurse Tanks are constructed using Heavy Duty

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5mm Profile steel walls on a 385/65R 22.5 Stub Axle, with Hydraulic brake & Lifting mechanism system, pipework at the front and rear, LED lighting Kit and beacon complete with Manway inspection hatch and Front access ladder. The use of mobile nurse tanks to aid umbilical spreading operations has resurged in popularity. The tanks are sited in or near to the fields to be spread. Then the slurry/digestate is transported by road in Lorries and Tankers and discharged into them. The tanks act as a buffer for the umbilical system and can be kept topped up by the road tankers, allowing uninterrupted spreading to be carried out. Important should you be spreading slurry onto cereal crops where interrupted spreading could lead to damage to the growing crops. Unique to Storth’s nurse tanks are the hydraulic-lifting stub axles on either side of the tank. These

allow the inside compartment to be of one single floor level from front to back. This negates the requirement for internal pipe work – as required with standard axles to link the front and back areas, which can become a bottleneck risk especially with the thick sticky nature of digestate. Storth’s nurse tanks have also been designed with a roof to make them fully enclosed, preventing unwanted or accidental access which could lead to personal injury. Storth nurse tanks come as standard in two capacities: 65m3 and 100m3. However tanks can also be custom-made to meet specific criteria, e.g. colour, siting of ports and compressor. As part of our continual commitment to provide expert advice and ideal solutions in waste

management our Research & Development team are currently designing & prototyping a light weight Polyglas tank watch out for more news on this project soon. We will be launching the Polyglas tank later this year, another new addition to our extensive product portfolio. For more information and advice, farmers, contractors and AD plant managers can contact Storth on 01524 781900

April 2016 | Farming Monthly | 37

| Pig & Poultry

British Pig & Poultry Fair 2016 set to be 10% bigger! Demand for stand space has been so strong for the 2016 Pig & Poultry Fair it has resulted in a 10% expansion to the floorplan. s a biennial event, exhibitors have been more enthusiastic than ever for the industry’s leading event to return in May 2016. “There is a real buzz around this year’s Fair. We are thrilled to have been able to accommodate an additional 30 stands,” says event organiser Alice Bell, “taking us to more than 350 exhibitors for the first time”. The Fair will be showcasing all the latest products and innovations from a huge range of suppliers from housing to nutrition and genetics to animal health. If you are interested in booking some of the remaining stand space, don’t delay in calling Teresa on 02476 858 284. Energy on the agenda at British Pig & Poultry Fair 2016 Producers looking to cut energy costs on farm will find a wealth of advice, technology and solutions at Pig & Poultry Fair 2016. The new

Energy Zone at the Fair will provide a hub for anaerobic digestion, biomass, combined heat and power, wind and photovoltaic panel solutions. Hosting over 30 exhibitors showcasing the latest technology the Fair is an ideal opportunity to speak to the experts and compare energy options which could work for you. “At the Pig & Poultry Fair we constantly strive to provide the answers producers are looking for to help improve performance,” says Alice Bell of the Fair organising team. “We know that renewable energy is one of the ways that leading producers are improving their margins and would encourage anyone considering an energy investment to come along to the Fair and explore the possibilities.” The Fair takes place on 10th & 11th May 2016 at NAEC Stoneleigh. Register now for your free ticket: www.pigandpoultry.org.uk

38 | Farming Monthly | April 2016

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| Pig & Poultry

Hydor improve poultry health in the Falklands Yolks for Folks is a poultry farm run by farmer Allan Steen in Stanley, Falkland Islands. The company supplies brown table eggs to the market in half dozen and dozen boxes. he birds are managed as free range, in a naturally ventilated barn environment, however, it was noticed that on calm days there was a problem with insufficient ventilation in the poultry house which, in turn, resulted in an accumulation of high humidity and poor air quality. Mr Steen needed to improve the air performance for his hens to ensure they maintained good health. His search for the right air ventilation system started online, due to his geographical location, and led to him being recommended to Hydor as the experts in agricultural ventilation. “I spoke to Dennis Farr from Hydor” said Mr Steen - Dennis has been in the industry himself with Hydor for over 50 years. “That man knows his stuff when it comes to ventilation,” he added, “he was instrumental in putting the whole proposal together”. Specification The fans and control system proposed by Hydor were based

upon the room dimensions, stock density, bird weights and the air movement required. Hydor supplied a bespoke control panel and two fans (HXP450mm). The panel consisted of two Pola HP58 0-10V Proportional Units: one monitoring the temperature and the other monitoring the humidity, in conjunction with the appropriate sensors. As the temperature and the humidity varied above and below the required settings, the output signal increased or decreased. This varied the voltage to the fans accordingly, from 10-100% speed. The HP58 thermostat also switched the fans on or off as required. The equipment was shipped in May and was later installed in September 2015 by Mr Steen himself. He said: “I found the products to be constructed to a very high standard. Having worked in the telecom industry, I can appreciate the quality that went into building the custom enclosure and the wiring of the components contained within it”.

Completion The overall impact on the chickens has had a dramatic improvement on bird health and their overall environment. There is no irritant in the air and the smell in the barn, even on hot days, is comfortable for the birds and the farmer. “The temperature side of the system works very well. It easily maintains the desired temperature, no matter what the weather outside. I don’t have any heating so the system switches off when external temperatures drop or when natural ventilation takes over”, Mr Steen explained.

“Without a doubt the fan system is the best investment that could have been added to the barn. The whole experience from contacting Hydor to receiving the goods was seamless, especially given the logistics involved in purchasing and shipping to the Falkland Islands! I would have no issue with using their products again or recommending them to others in the poultry industry”. For more information please contact Hydor on +44 (0) 1725 511422, info@hydor.co.uk or visit us at the Pig & Poultry Fair (Hall 3, Stand 284) at NAEC Stoneleigh, 10-11 May, 2016.

See us at Pig & Poultry Stand 346

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April 2016 | Farming Monthly | 39

| Pig & Poultry

Arbor CHP Unit Open Day Cobb achieves approval Renewable Energy Specialists, ESP Energy are hosting an open day to showcase the Arbor ElectroGen combined heat and power unit, one of the newest renewable technologies on the market. ombined heat and power is simply the simultaneous generation of usable heat and electricity. This heat can be used for agricultural or industrial space heating. Situated in the picturesque market town of Knighton, Grove Farm is home to the Powell’s, they rear beef cattle and are free range chicken farmers that have been in the farming industry for many generations. They had previously invested in biomass boilers to provide renewable heat to the farm, but with the expansion of their business and increased costs of energy they were looking for a technology that provided both renewable heat and power. This site uses the heat from two Arbor Electrogen 45 systems for wood drying linked to a Pezzolato EPG 50 wood drier that dries and screens the woodchip. This process allows the owners to buy in wet, unscreened chip at a lower cost to pre-screened, dry

for ‘Compartment’ Status in UK The UK farm and hatchery facilities which export Cobb broiler breeding stock globally have been granted ‘GB enhanced compartment’ status — the most stringent requirements for any such operation.

woodchip and use the heat to do this themselves in a fully automated process. The excess chip that is unsuitable for gasification will be used for either his existing biomass boilers or as bedding for the farm livestock – so nothing goes to waste. The electricity is used on the farm to reduce costs and any surplus is exported to the grid. This system will save the owners thousands in fuel costs whilst helping to reduce their carbon footprint. The open day will be on Tuesday 12th April at Grove Farm, Knighton, Powys, LD7 1LN where hosts ESP Energy will be offering free refreshments and advice on these units throughout the day, for more information please call ESP Energy on 01743 718 003, or email info@espenergy.co.uk

ith the agreement of an importing country, the high standards of biosecurity within a compartment allow breeding stock to be supplied to customers when outbreaks of avian influenza or Newcastle disease in a particular country would normally restrict exports. The approval by the UK Animal and Plant Heath Agency (APHA) covers the great grandparent and grandparent stock farms of Cobb Europe which extend across East Anglia and the East Midlands and the grandparent hatchery in Norfolk. They supply breeding stock not only across the Cobb Europe region, which also serves the Middle East and Africa, but to customers worldwide.

“This significant achievement has only been realised through the dedication of all our employees with continued investment in education and training. Our whole team are justly proud of their joint efforts to achieve this landmark status” Lyndsey Cassidy, quality assurance coordinator of Cobb Europe, has worked on the project since she joined the company five years ago. “In a world where there is a real need to manage trade and maintain a secure supply to all customers, notifiable disease outbreaks are becoming a significant concern,” she said. “Poultry breeding stock is now shipped around the world from a small number of primary breeding companies. Outbreaks of both avian influenza and Newcastle disease can severely impact trade as national governments can choose to block imports from affected countries for weeks or even months. Maintaining country freedom from notifiable diseases is no longer a viable approach to preserving open trade routes, and this is why achieving the compartment status is so

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important not only to breeding companies like Cobb but to customers who rely on regular imports to continue their own production.” In 2004, the World Health Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) introduced the concept of 'compartments’ to recognize businesses which operate to such a high standard of biosecurity that they can ensure their facilities will remain disease free even in the event of a notifiable disease outbreak in the country. In 2009, the UK Government introduced its own version of compartmentalization. They adopted all the rules of the EU compartment standard, but additionally required enhanced serological testing and biosecurity. This has resulted in the 'GB enhanced' compartment having the most stringent requirements for any currently operating compartment scheme in the world. “After comprehensive auditing of procedures and facilities, the APHA has recognised that Cobb Europe operates to the high standards required to be included in the GB Enhanced Compartmentalization Scheme,” said Lyndsey Cassidy. “Through comprehensive company-wide operating procedures and risk management through strict Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point, Cobb facilities maintain separation and prevent notifiable diseases from infecting our livestock. “This significant achievement has only been realised through the dedication of all our employees with continued investment in education and training. Our whole team are justly proud of their joint efforts to achieve this landmark status. “As the concept of compartments is embraced by governments worldwide, it will mean our customers can rely on Cobb to maintain product supply and allow their own business to operate predictably and securely.”

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| Livestock

Beef Expo 2016 The 2016 NBA Beef Expo will be held at The Agricultural Business Centre and home of Bakewell Market, 15 years after the expo was last held in the area. he annual highlight of the beef industry calendar is due to take place on Friday 20th May, with organisers looking to build upon the huge success of last year’s event in York. Bringing together the very best in British commercial and pedigree cattle, equipment, ground-breaking developments, and show classes for everyone involved in the industry, NBA Beef Expo is a celebration and exploration of everything British Beef has to offer. Holding the event in Bakewell once again proves the importance of the area to the industry. Alastair Sneddon, Managing Partner at Bagshaws and Chairman of the 2016 NBA Beef Expo said: “It is an honour to be hosting the NBA Beef Expo at Bakewell in the Peak District National Park, which will provide a wonderful setting for the event. It is predominantly a suckler beef area with most animals sold as suckled calves or stronger stores. There is also some beef produced from the limited number of dairy herds in the region. Bakewell market attracts buyers from all over the country, who are well aware of the quality of stock on offer at

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the weekly and special sales, with stores outnumbering finished animals by a significant margin.” The NBA Beef Expo is considered a major showcase for pedigree and commercial breed societies which want to promote the quality of their cattle. Thanks to this, the NBA Beef Expo displays some of the finest examples of British breeding anywhere in the UK. Farmers, exhibitors, agricultural companies and interested members of the public also use the annual event to network, do business and share knowledge, as well as seeing the crème de la crème of British beef cattle. Over the years the NBA Beef Expo has become a highlight in the beef farming calendar. Representing all the industry has to offer in terms of new developments, breeding expertise and celebrating the work of all beef farmers across the UK regardless of breed or method. The event attracts experts and industry leaders looking to educate both the farming community and the public, encouraging respect and innovation from all corners of the market.

April 2016 | Farming Monthly | 41

| Livestock

Careful mineral management needed at turnout Producers are being warned to pay close attention to their livestock’s mineral requirements, as animals are turned out to grass, following an incredibly wet six month period which has left grassland in poor condition in many areas of the country. igh winter rainfall has caused increased nutrient leaching and generally left soils in poor shape,” says Simon Allen, senior lecturer in crop protection and agronomy at Harper Adams. It’s becoming apparent that plants have lost nutrients, and as a result, grass is likely to be more unbalanced as a feed than usual. “There’s a heightened risk that grass could be lacking in essential minerals as we don’t know how many nutrients have been naturally replaced, or the level of soil mineralisation that will have occurred.” Additionally, wet conditions may have caused damage to plant root structure, which is fundamental for nutrient uptake, explains Simon. “While localised poaching will be obvious, surface compaction is likely to be widespread, causing serious damage beneath the surface at the root zone. The likelihood of water logging will also lead to anaerobic conditions, which will further compromise the plants ability to uptake essential nutrients.” Another important consideration is the soil

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pH adds Simon. “A lot of grassland is acidic and desperately short of lime at the best of times. A wet winter makes this problem worse, and if soil pH is wrong, the nutrient store will be locked up and unavailable to the plant.” With experts suggesting that grassland has really suffered from high rainfall, Steve Elliott, global director of Mineral Management at Alltech, reiterates the importance of balancing its mineral content to maintain optimum animal health and productivity. “Ensuring the correct balance of minerals across the diet is essential if livestock is to perform well at grass. Failure to achieve this will result in production drops, not only noticeably in yield, but also in reduced fertility. The best source of mineral supplement is an organic form explains Steve. “A chelated form, as provided in Alltech’s Bioplex® range, mimics the natural form of trace minerals and is therefore more efficiently absorbed, stored and utilised by the animal. “Whether added to a concentrate ration, combined with a buffer feed, or supplemented independently, careful mineral management will be an important factor in maintaining optimum health and productivity this spring.”

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| Livestock

Cattle farmers advised to beef up insurance Cattle farmers are being advised to make sure their public liability insurance is up-to-date to avoid a costly court case should a member of the public get injured while on their land. ccording to the latest data, cows are regarded as being the most dangerous large animal in the UK, with regular reports in the spring and summer of people being attacked and trampled while out walking. The need to have cover is even more important especially at this time of the year, as cows with calves are now generally out in the fields and is when they feel most vulnerable to what they perceive as intruders. Matthew Peters of Bruton Knowles is now recommending cattle farmers double check their policies and make sure sufficient signs are in place, especially on public footpaths, warning the public of the dangers. Matthew said: “There is an element of responsibility from both the public and farmer. However farmers are becoming increasingly concerned about walkers and members of the public who should be very wary when crossing a field that is occupied by cows and calves. “We’re all aware of the danger a bull can pose but fewer people realise that cows, particularly those protecting newly-born calves, can also be dangerous. With a typical cow

weighing about 1,000lb the best advice would be to stay clear. “If a public footpath does cross a farmers land then placing clear signs is a good way to inform the public of the dangers and will help mitigate any potential issues. Those walking dogs should also be told to keep them on a lead and under control.” According to the law, if an incident does occur on a public footpath that crosses a farmer’s land, it is in fact the farmer’s responsibility. The law states that Occupiers Liability Acts 1957 and 1984 require land managers to show a reasonable duty of care towards other people. Further to this, the Animals Act 1971 makes the keeper of an animal "strictly liable" in most cases for injuries caused by their stock. Matthew added: “Incidents like this are very rare with the vast majority of the public taking great care when crossing fields, while respecting the presence of any animals. “Farmers are also in general happy to let members of the public cross their land and as long as they stick to the paths will be perfectly safe.”

Matthew Peters, Bruton Knowles

A good time to plan parasite control Now is a good time to plan parasite control for parasitic gastroenteritis (PGE) and nematodirosis in sheep, and to consider putting gutworm and lungworm control measures in place for cattle according to the latest NADIS Parasite Forecast, sponsored by Merial Animal Health. ioned Timothy, Veterinary Adviser for Merial Animal Health says: “Sheep farmers should work with their farmers and animal health advisors to get a better understanding of the dynamics of the parasite challenge on their farm, assessing resistance status and appraising farm level risk–factors. Control measures must be formulated on an individual farm-by-farm basis and based on good grazing practices with optimal use of safe grazing. The major aim of parasite control around lambing is to minimise the contamination of pastures by eggs passed from the adult parasites in the gut of ewes and minimise reliance on chemical control later in the season.

“Farmers are increasingly adopting a targeted approach to gutworm control in youngstock, using weight assessment as an indicator of a possible parasite burden and the need to treat...” “When deposited on pasture these eggs hatch and develop into infective larvae which will infect growing lambs.” Well-fed ewes are much more resilient to worms and shed fewer eggs. It is recommended that safer grazing is prioritised for thin and young ewes with twin lambs, while those with singles graze contaminated

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pastures. ‘Safe grazing’ for lambs at turn-out is defined as that which was not grazed by sheep last year, re-seeded pastures or those used for forage crops. Sioned says: “For sheep on safe grazing it is recommended that a short-acting anthelmintic such as Oramec® (ivermectin) is administered before turn-out. In order to avoid selection for resistance, producers should target treatment so that not all ewes are treated and, therefore, some anthelmintic-susceptible parasites are carried over to the safe grazing. “If turning ewes out onto contaminated pasture is unavoidable, treatment with a persistent anthelmintic, such as moxidectin, to prevent immediate re-infection of ewes, may be beneficial.” Nematodirus has not been a major problem for two years, but this parasite caused major production losses in young lambs in late spring and early summer of 2013 and must be considered in parasite control strategies. Infection can easily be prevented by simple pasture management – avoiding turning lambs out onto pasture grazed by young lambs during the previous year. Only lambs on contaminated grazing are at risk of nematodirosis so farmers should keep an eye out for the April and May Parasite Forecasts, and regularly check the SCOPS website to determine the risk in their area. Later in the spring and early summer the larvae from a number of other parasites become active on the pasture and coccidiosis also becomes a threat; the disease caused by these pathogens

may cause similar clinical signs to nematodirosis. Farmers should consult their vet to ensure the correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Now is a good time for cattle farmers to plan their lungworm strategy with their vets. Sioned says: “Although lungworm generally doesn’t affect cattle until July, if you decide to vaccinate your youngstock, this requires two doses four weeks apart, with the second dose at least two weeks before turn-out. “There are several anthelmintic control strategies which can be used, including strategic and timed wormer treatments. Control strategies using wormer products such as Ivomec® (ivermectin) will also aid the control of gut parasites such as Ostertagia. These control strategies rely on cattle being set stocked, and not moved onto contaminated pasture later in the grazing season. “Farmers are increasingly adopting a targeted approach to gutworm control in youngstock, using weight assessment as an indicator of a possible parasite burden and the need to treat. I would recommend seeking advice from your vet or local animal health advisor to determine the optimal strategy for your farm.”

April 2016 | Farming Monthly | 43

| Sheep & Lambing

Maximising the performance of lambs In order to maximise the performance of lambs, it’s important to understand their energy requirements. p until eight weeks of age, lambs are dependent on their mothers for milk so the priority is to maximise energy intake into ewes to drive lactation,” said AHDB Beef & Lamb senior livestock scientist Liz Genever. “Post-eight weeks, their performance becomes more dependent on the quality of the grass or feed they consume, which has consequences for how the group needs to be managed.” Make the best of grass The most economical way of feeding ewes and lambs is with grazed grass, so investing time and effort into getting that right will pay dividends. The grazing targets for ewes and lambs when set stocked is 4-6 cm, with limited evidence of benefit if ewes are supplemented if the grass is over 3 cm. This may alter if grass is poor quality or the ewes are rearing triplets.

Once lambs are starting to eat more grass (from four weeks) the priority is to give them access to high-quality feed. At this point, rotational grazing could be used to control supply and demand, with 8-10cm being the pre-grazing target and 4-6cm the post-grazing target in this system. “Grazing pasture at the right height will ensure growing animals are eating high-quality grass,” Liz said. “The leaf has more than 11.5 MJ ME/kg DM and is the most nutritious part of the plant. The stem has only 10.5 MJ ME/kg DM, so planning a grazing strategy with this in mind will help optimise nutrition for lambs.” Creep feeding For producers with low quality or limited grazing, creep feeding can be a good option and help maintain growth rates. However, creep feed is expensive. “Research has shown that lambs on wellmanaged, re-seeded grazing can match the

performance of lambs supplemented with creep feed on poorer permanent pasture, so there must be a real requirement to justify the investment,” Liz said. The most economical way of feeding ewes and lambs is with grazed grass Lambs introduced to creep during the first two to three weeks after turnout can be expected to eat 40-50kg per head by sale if it is offered ad-lib and the sward height is around 4cm. Lambs on restricted grazing with limited creep feed will gain on average an extra one kg liveweight for every 5-6kg of creep feed compared with un-supplemented lambs. Giving lambs the best grazing ahead of ewes, known as forward creep grazing, is a good way to prevent the need for creep feeding. Identify any gaps It is important to identify the likely shortfall in grass availability over the season, so the gaps can be managed in a way that suits your system, according to Liz. “Encouraging white clover would be a priority as it helps to counter the dip in grass quality and quantity in the summer,” she said. “The plant and the animals eating it need to be managed carefully, but it can increase lamb liveweight gain by up to 15 per cent. Weaning decisions Research work is showing there is limited advantage of delaying weaning beyond 90 days of age, unless lambs are close to finishing. “By this age, ewes and lambs are directly competing for grass and it is more costeffective to prioritise good grass for growing lambs rather than ewes,” Liz said. “Ewes can be weaned, dried off and then sorted for body condition score.” Weaning slightly earlier also means that ewes are given plenty of time to recover body condition before the next breeding season and can be very useful to tidy up pastures. Monitoring performance Optimal feeding and monitoring grass is important, but so is keeping track of lamb performance. Regular handling and weighing is a good way to highlight any issues. “In order to build up a true picture of how individual lambs and the overall flock is performing, good monitoring and record keeping is essential,” Liz said. “Measuring average daily liveweight gain to weaning (kg per day) provides information about maternal performance, grass availability and parasite control. “It’s also worth looking back at scanning, lambing and turnout records to understand how this year compares with previous years or industry averages. Lamb losses can be calculated against the number of lambs scanned to see how the business is tracking against targets.” More information can be found in the AHDB Beef & Lamb Better Returns Programme (BRP) manual Growing and Finishing Lambs for Better Returns. This and a range of other BRP resources can be downloaded from AHDB Beef & Lamb website.

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| Sheep & Lambing

Need for an agreed disease strategy amid mounting bluetongue risk With a recent APHA report suggesting an 80% chance of the bluetongue virus serotype 8 (BTV8) hitting UK shores later this year, the National Sheep Association (NSA) is working hard to keep the need for an agreed disease control strategy at the top of the agenda. SA understands the French Government currently owns all existing vaccine for BTV8 and has made it compulsory for any stock

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exiting the restriction zone in France to comply with premovement vaccination stipulations. Although the UK currently has its hands tied by there being no vaccine available, NSA Chief Executive Phil Stocker

is clear that livestock keepers and UK governments need to have an open dialogue on the choices being faced. Mr Stocker says: “The NSA position, which is shared by the Sheep Veterinary Society, is that we must do all we can to keep the UK clear of the virus and not allow it to become endemic if it does arrive. We should treat any opinion that this is a ‘low impact’ disease with extreme caution, as while there may be some residual immunity in France, we do not believe that is the case here. The UK remains highly vulnerable, with a potential BTV8 outbreak posing real welfare and production problems. “Many NSA members tell me that, if a vaccine was available at a reasonable cost, they would choose to use it. Whether that would get usage to a level that would protect the national flock is questionable, but that is where we are at the moment and the most important challenge is to get adequate approved and inactive vaccine stocks available at a price that encourages uptake.” Having spoken to vets in France, NSA understands the majority of confirmed cases so far have been picked up through surveillance rather than clinical signs. Rather than this pointing to a less virulent strain of the virus, experts suggest circulation is presently limited due to unsuitable weather conditions and/or a degree of residual immunity being present. NSA feels strongly that the UK’s health and welfare reputation must be protected at all costs. Mr Stocker continues: “Given

that the UK is an island nation and we have the potential to protect ourselves through vaccination in advance of any spread to our shores, planning for adequate vaccine production and uptake is now essential. I urge producers in potentially vulnerable areas to seriously think about how an outbreak of bluetongue could impact on their own stock and their ability to move stock, and to consider committing to a vaccination programme. I also urge vaccine manufacturers to step up their communication with the UK livestock industry and to start preparing the way for manufacture. “The NSA position, which is shared by the Sheep Veterinary Society, is that we must do all we can to keep the UK clear of the virus and not allow it to become endemic if it does arrive” “Additionally, we all have to consider the UK’s reputation in terms of health status, particularly in light of the hangover remaining from BSE and foot-and-mouth, and that takes us into the difficult topic of how fair it is to expect those in geographically vulnerable areas to cover the costs of acting as guardian for the wider industry. The industry and Government need to pick this topic up again urgently – it may not be in time for this potential BTV8 risk, but the issue of cost and responsibility sharing is far from being resolved.”

April 2016 | Farming Monthly | 45

| Fencing

Lambing time is busy enough without fencing to worry about We know that thousands of farmers across the UK are in the middle of their busiest part of the year: lambing time. Yet why does leading fencing manufacturer, Sheffieldbased ArcelorMittal, experience a jump in fencing orders at this time, just when you’d think farmers were too busy to erect new fences? enior Sales Officer Shaun Gervis manages the sales of Estate®WIRE at ArcelorMittal and he has a few answers to this conundrum. “At ArcelorMittal we definitely know our tups from our ewes, and we understand what’s important to farmers during the busy lambing season. But a constant concern with lambing is also predators. Badgers and foxes also love lambing time, which is what prompts many farmers to get around to renewing fencing that has been on their ‘to do’ list for some time. “I think this explains the leap in Estate®WIRE sales,” says Shaun, “but we have gone the extra mile to make our Estate®WIRE 2Life® and the new Dragon Estate®WIRE 2Life® wire fencing even easier to erect, so that’s another job famers can tick off the list.” Better fencing, easier to erect The extended durability offered by Estate®WIRE 2Life® is the answer for many sheep farmers. Fencing made of inferior material is difficult to erect and it won’t stand square. ArcelorMittal’s fencing is unique in that it is manufactured from 2Life® wire (zinc and aluminium coated). This product range will last at least twice as long as a heavily galvanised product and the newlylaunched green Dragon fence also benefits from this technology. Dragon is based on the traditional 2Life® fencing, with a longer corrosion-resistant life, even when folded or bent. This means that if the green coating is damaged the 2Life® properties remain intact. “The launch of the green Dragon fencing has taken the market by storm,” says Shaun. “Sales have leapt during lambing season and we predict a continued rise as summer approaches. “While we know lots of farmers try to avoid unnecessary tasks at this time of year,” explains Shaun, “the fact is that Estate®WIRE is simply made of a superior

material, so it is easier to work with, easier to get up and more reliable once it is in place. This saves farmers a lot of hard work.” Many farmers also sing the praises of ‘easy to work with’ Estate®WIRE due to it having centreless rolls, being self-draining and – above all – being stocked by all of the country’s leading outlets. Fencing always in stock ArcelorMittal recently opened its expanded storage facility in response to retailers’ changing ordering patterns. Now that most retailers carry less stock but still need to be able to deliver fencing products quickly to end users, the

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fencing manufacturer massively expanded its stock and the range of products it holds in Sheffield to ensure retailers can replenish their stock rapidly.

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| Fencing

April offer - Solar Energiser Creosoted fencing for Fire Drake 67 Solar Energiser - RRP £327.54 - Sale Price in April 2016… £240.84!

longer life

pring has arrived and as we start to see some more sunshine it is time to dust off your electric fencing system and get it up and running again. Perhaps you use it to strip graze and divide your summer pastures or maybe the electric fence is to keep unwanted rabbits out of the vegetable patch. Whatever the electric fencing is used for it is always smart to make maintenance as easy as possible. So if you have not looked at using a solar powered energiser to save you time now is the time…. Check out our great deal on the Fire Drake 67. Not only does solar save you time (as you don’t need to lug your heavy old 12v battery back to the charger every couple of weeks) but you are also doing your bit for the environment too! Fire Drake 67 Solar Energiser: This is a medium powered energiser with an integrated high capacity solar panel. Many solar energisers are relatively low in power and/or utilise solar panels which are inadequate to keep the battery

Since the EU banned the use of CCA for the treatment of timber products, many farmers have experienced early failure of fence posts treated with the new generation of chemical treatment products.

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charged. Hotline have designed the Fire Drake energiser range to operate at popular power levels, suitable for a range of applications, with panels carefully matched to replace the energy used while operating. A battery charger is also included to help keep the battery charged during the dark and damp UK winter months. Fire Drake 67 Solar Energiser has: • 12amp/hr 12v internal battery is included • 10 watt solar panel • on/off switch • high and low settings • low battery/pulse indicator • battery charger included (for the darker months) • Stored Joules - 0.65j • Output Joules - 0.50j • Can power up to 5km of wire in ideal conditions or 5 sheep nets or 1x 50m poultry net • 3 year warranty Questions? We would be happy to help… E: info@electricfencing.co.uk T: 01620 860058 W: www.electricfencing.co.uk

here has been significant speculation about the quality of the chemicals, and the quality of the treatment processes as a result of these early failures, and actions have been taken by both chemical manufacturers, and the WPA, to try and ensure that only correctly seasoned timber, which has been correctly processed for use in ground contact. Calders and Grandidge are one of just a few treatment plants in the UK that have achieved WPA Benchmark Accreditation of our treatment processes, and added to this, our Celcure treated redwood products also come with a 15yr guarantee backed by the chemical manufacturer, Koppers. As a result of our accreditation and guarantee, Calders and Grandidge have experienced a large increase in demand for fencing products treated with

Celcure over the past years. As a result of these wellpublicised issues for green fencing, Calders and Grandidge have found that more and more farmers have been buying their tried and tested creosoted fencing which offers the longest service life of all currently available treatments. During 2015, sales of creosoted fencing grew tremendously, and last summer demand almost exceeded supply. We have now secured both supplies of creosote and fencing materials, and are well placed for what we expect to be another record year for the sales of creosoted fencing here at Calders and Grandidge. If you would like to know any more about Calders and Grandidge, or our products, please visit our website, www.caldersandgrandidge.com, or give our sales team a call on 01205 358866

April 2016 | Farming Monthly | 47

| Buildings

Construction safety on the farm – get up to date with CDM regulations

Farm building maintenance and expansion is something that many farmers will undertake at some point during the year.

owever, anything that involves construction work on a farm is subject to CDM Regulations (Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015) which came into force in April 2015. The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), working with industry, developed guidance on the changes to CDM regulations to help protect the health and safety of construction workers. The aim of the amended regulations was to cut bureaucracy for businesses and make them simpler to understand while still providing protection for workers. CITB has produced an app for Smart phones and tablets, called the CDM Wizard, to help develop a construction phase plan, as required by the Regulations. The app has been a runaway success, being downloaded over 50,000 times since its 2015 launch, as it walks the user through the construction activities to provide

advice and guidance on the risks involved and how these can be eliminated or controlled. Under the CDM Regulations farms are considered as a commercial client and therefore the regulations will apply in full. This means that a farm will have overall responsibility for the successful management of a construction project and they will need to formally appoint a principal designer and a principal contractor to assist them to exercise their duties. Clients must also make suitable arrangements to ensure that, throughout the planning, design and construction of a project, adequate consideration is given to the health, safety and welfare of all those affected and involved in the construction work. The arrangements need to be proportionate to the project and the risk that this presents, so a small project may only require a simple plan. Kevin Fear, CITB Health and Safety Strategy Lead, said: “The CDM regulations are there to make it easier for people who

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are conducting construction work as part of their businesses. As a commercial client it is important that farmers and those running farms are aware of the responsibilities they have for anyone conducting construction work on their property. “Some farmers may be working with CDM for the first time and therefore its vital that they understand its importance. So,

download the client guidance and the app, and visit the CITB website where all the information you need is available.” For more information about CDM regulations visit www.citb.co.uk/cdmregs.

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| Buildings

Cembrit UK builds for the future Cembrit UK is part of Cembrit Holdings A/S, one of Europe’s leading distributors and manufacturers of fibre-cement products. The group company has introduced a completely new visual identity, including new website, logo, and strapline to mark the beginning of a new era for the nearly 90-year-old building materials group. ince the new owners took over Cembrit last year, the Danish building materials group has undertaken a comprehensive, strategic shift from its origins manufacturing corrugated sheets to being a service-orientated supplier of many types of fibrecement building products,

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specialising in façade solutions. As part of this shift the Cembrit group has also launched a new, international identity that unifies the group’s 17 subsidiaries across Europe and focuses on supporting users of Cembrit in addition to its extensive product portfolio. Besides providing the market with its comprehensive fibre cement product assortment, Cembrit UK will continue to offer

its range of top quality natural slates – a core product for the Cembrit Group and the material that started the company’s activities in the UK in the 1930s. Customers benefit from the personal attention offered by all five regional depots as well as our sales managers and back office staff. Furthermore clients, designers and users can rely on Cembrit’s acknowledged expertise

in the sourcing of top quality natural slates for problem free roofing projects. Cembrit UK also is pleased to announce the appointment of a new Managing Director, as well as three customerfacing personnel in London and North Wales. This is the first stage of an investment plan to enhance Cembrit’s customer service in all market sectors.

April 2016 | Farming Monthly | 49

| Machinery

Revolutionary DISCO MAX CUT mower range Launched last year, the latest CLAAS DISCO range of mounted and trailed mowers all feature the revolutionary new CLAAS MAX CUT disc mower bed that sets a new standard for cut quality. he new range of DISCO MAX CUT models covers a total of 19 models, ranging from the simplest 2.6m mounted mower up to advanced, ISOBUS compatible, high capacity triples with cutting widths as wide as 9.1m. Revolutionary MAX CUT mower bed The new MAX CUT mower bed features a waved shape leading edge, which means that unlike a mower bed with a straight leading edge, the cutting discs can be mounted as close to the front of the bed as possible. In combination with the new, specially formed discs, this means there is a greater overlap between the blades, so creating an enlarged cutting area for optimum cutting quality and flow through the mower. The new MAX CUT mower bed is manufactured in-house by CLAAS at its Bad Saulgau mower factory in southern Germany. A new unique feature is that instead of welding, the mower bed is made from two pieces of pressed steel plate, which are then bolted together. This means that a high torsional strength can be achieved, but the potential of cracks developing is reduced as there are no heat stresses, which are caused during the welding process. In order to achieve a clean cut and avoid soil contamination, extra-wide skids are fitted to the underside of the mower bed, which guide dirt and foreign material backwards. There are also additional wear skids and high cut skids available as an option. The satellite drive train of the

new MAX CUT is permanently lubricated and maintenance free, and designed so that in lighter crops it can be run at 850 rpm instead of 1000 rpm, which will help reduce fuel consumption by up to 20%. To fully protect the drive train, each mowing disc is mounted using a CLAAS SAFETY LINK module, which incorporates a pre-determined breaking point that will shear in the event of a collision, and is easy to replace. Five model range To clearly identify the range of model specifications, type of operation and control systems, the 19 new DISCO models have been divided into five variants: TREND, CONTOUR, BUSINESS, AUTOSWATHER and DUO. The simpler TREND mower units are operated using the tractor spool valves without any electric control terminal, but if required can be incorporated into the tractor's headland management. The optional individual lifting function is operated using a hydraulic isolator valve, which makes it possible to pre-select the mowing units. CONTOUR series mowers are again operated using the tractor's spool valves, but the pre-selection is made using the new OPERATOR control panel or an ISOBUS control terminal. BUSINESS and DUO mower units utilise load sensing hydraulics and are controlled using either the new OPERATOR terminal or the ISOBUScompatible COMMUNICATOR II terminal, which allows the various mower functions to be assigned to the function buttons on the tractorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s multi-function control lever. The AUTOSWATHER model series is also controlled using the

50 | Farming Monthly | April 2016

ISOBUS COMMUNICATOR II control terminal. Included in the 19-model DISCO MAX CUT range there are seven high output DISCO triple mower and mower conditioners are now available, ranging from the 9.10m wide DISCO 9400 C DUO to the 8.10m DISCO 8500 TREND A total of nine new mounted or trailed CONTOUR mower or mower conditioner versions are available, ranging in working width of 2.80m up to 3.80m, providing a wide range of models for small and medium-sized farms. In the trailed mower range two new models are available, the DISCO 3200 TC and the TC AS which has a conveyor system for swath grouping, both of which have working widths of 3.00m. All the new CONTOUR models retain the hydro-pneumatic ACTIVE FLOAT suspension, which enables the ground pressure on the mower unit to be changed from the driver's seat when mowing and adjusted to the

conditions in the field. They are also protected by a mechanical break back system which moves the mower unit backwards and up, so that it is raised above the obstacle. To continue driving, the machine must simply be reversed slightly until the mechanical break back system is locked again. PROFIL front mowers Completing the DISCO mower line-up are two front mowers, the DISCO 3200F and the DISCO 3200FC mower conditioner, both of which have a 3.00m cutting width. To ensure optimum ground contour following, the mower units are fitted with the proven PROFIL kinematics. On the principle that it should be the ground that guides the mower, and not the tractor, the mower is suspended and pulled using a trailing linkage around a pivot point close to the ground. This allows the mower bed to swing both longitudinally and laterally, so accurately following the ground contours independent of the tractor front axle.

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| Machinery

New Holland introduces new in-cab adjustable density and variable core adjustment feature on all Roll-Belt™ balers Standard in-cab adjustable density with variable core density adjustment for tailored baling from the comfort of the cab. ew Holland RollBelt™ balers redefined round baling with their technology that can improve capacity by up to 20% and density by up to 5%. Since their launch New Holland has introduced a constant stream of new features, continuously raising their performance. These will be followed in 2016 by a new feature that will improve their productivity and bale quality: in-cab adjustable density and variable core adjustment. “In 2013 we introduced the RollBelt variable chamber baler series, featuring customised feeding systems like the SuperFeed™ and CropCutter™ rotor options, followed a year later by the new

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ActiveSweep™ crop processing solution to widen further the choice of tailored baling,” stated Bob Hatz, Head of Hay and Forage Product Management. “With the new standard feature operators will be able to make all the adjustments without leaving their seat in the cab, increasing their productivity and comfort.” Standard in-cab adjustable density No two baling operations are the same; Roll-Belt balers offer tailored baling to suit individual requirements. On all Roll-Belt balers operators will be able to adjust bale density from the comfort of the cab using the IntelliView™ colour touch screen monitor or the Bale Command™ Plus II monitor. Thanks to ISOBUS the operator

can also choose to specify the IntelliView™ IV touch screen colour monitor, benefiting from its bigger screen. A new pressure transducer measures the actual density pressure and displays it on the monitor, so the operator always knows the density of the bale being formed in real time. Variable core density adjustment for tailored baling from the comfort

of the cab The operator can make adjustments in 10bar increments on the monitor, and even set different core and outer layer density. Once the bale has reached its core diameter, the system will switch to the pre-set outer bale density. The pressure setting value will change automatically on the monitor so the operator can keep track.

April 2016 | Farming Monthly | 51

| Tyres

Featured Dealers: Farmstar Limited Marr, Doncaster DN5 7AU T: 01302 786786

Market Weighton,York YO43 3GA T: 01430 875900 Brigg, North Lincs DN2 8NF T: 01652 654944 www.farmstar.co.uk

B & B Tractors (Warsop) Mansfield, Nottinghamshire NG20 0EP T: 01623 847171 Tutbury, Staffordshire DE13 9HS T: 01283 521522 www.bandbtractors.co.uk

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Sharnford Tractors Ltd Lutterworth, Leicestershire LE17 5EH T: 01455 209300 www.manitou.co.uk

R & D Machinery Ltd Totnes, Devon TQ9 6DP T: 01803 863400 www.rdmachinery.co.uk

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| Machinery

‘Cherry picking’ the best selling attachments

search for cherryproducts

Attachment specialists Cherry Products have reported strong first quarter sales on their best-selling Push Off Buck Rake range. he Oxfordshire based firm first launched their ‘CF05’ range in 2009 and attribute its success to its market leading design and build quality. Attachments Sales Manager Dan Cross noted “Our Buck Rake range has fast become one of our top selling products with us continually sending large stock orders to the Scottish boarders and into Europe. We regularly receive positive feedback on its performance against other models customers have used previously”.

“Our dealers have been fantastic in promoting the product and taking stock. Many of them took up 2016 build slots way before the end of 2015 with pre-emptied stock orders meaning end users have several options of where to pick one up almost immediately.”

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The company has a 500 strong dealership network covering the whole of the UK and Europe, something which Dan was keen to acknowledge, “Our dealers have been fantastic in promoting the product and taking stock. Many of them took up 2016 build slots way before the end of 2015 with pre-emptied stock orders meaning end users have several options of where to pick one up almost immediately.” Sales into Europe are something which has been particularly pleasing for the company with Cherry now sending around half of completed units into the continent. Dan commented “We have some outstanding outlets in Europe, especially in Holland and Germany. One dealership in Germany in particular has done a very good job in marketing and selling the Buck Rake range and they continue to improve on already impressive year on year orders. Overall we see it as a massive endorsement to the product that oversees dealers like and trust it”. Further endorsement comes in Cherry’s impact at demonstration events such as the Grassland and Muck show. At last year’s show Cherry had no less than 9 Buck Rake units on major OEM’s stands or demonstration

machines. “We are always keen to show off the Buck Rakes working on demo clamps at events like Grasslands, “ commented Dan, “It gives potential customers an up close chance to view the product working on a number of different machine types but also an opportunity to walk around static units and see their features. We really appreciate that our contacts at major OEM’s trust the product and put faith in it my coupling it with their demonstration machine.” The features of the Buck Rake range are ultimately what Cherry attribute its success to. Builds come as standard with a high grade weldmesh gate, high capacity hydraulic cylinders, flow control valve, double side tines, heat treated base wear pads and the option to have Hardox or KV type base tines. The company will also paint the Buck Rake to the customer’s colour choice with distinctive chevron finishes an optional extra. Models start at 8’ wide and go upto 12’ as standard with prices starting at £4435.00 retail. For availability or further pricing, contact your local Cherry dealer or Cherry themselves on 01608 678 197.

April 2016 | Farming Monthly | 53

| Machinery

New John Deere W & T series combines for 2016 Featuring new Stage IV compliant PSS engines with more power and lower engine speeds, John Deereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new W and TSeries combines have been comprehensively redesigned for the 2016 harvest season. any components have been changed to achieve the best straw walker combine performance possible. The combination of the largest active separation area on the market and an enlarged cleaning shoe area will enable operators to achieve an increase in output of up to 15 per cent, says the company.

The ConnectedCombine package is designed to enable operators to get the maximum performance out of the harvester, Other class leading features include the fastest unloading rate and header conversion for different crops; exclusive 40kph top speed and track options; and the latest FarmSight

54 | Farming Monthly | April 2016

precision farming developments with ConnectedCombine and MyJohnDeere.com. On both ranges, the design changes provide increased separation capacity even under tough and wet harvesting conditions. Featuring a sieve area of more than 6m2, the redesigned cleaning shoe is now among the largest in its class. Tests have shown that the combines can now operate at a high performance level with low losses across a wider range of fan settings. This makes it easier to get the maximum out of the combine with minimal losses, even for less experienced operators. The unloading rate of up to 125 litres/sec allows an 11,000-litre capacity grain tank to be emptied in less than 90 seconds. The new 600X Series combine header can also be converted from barley to rape harvesting in just three minutes, while the rape knife features a quick coupler for faster conversion. In addition, John

Deereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new quick-engage Booster Bar is a rasp bar that can be swung into the crop flow in less than three minutes in situations where more aggressive threshing is required, for example in barley. The ConnectedCombine package is designed to enable operators to get the maximum performance out of the harvester, to adjust it properly and manage the recorded data with the support of GPS. AutoTrac handsfree steering allows the driver to concentrate on combine adjustments, while Interactive Combine Adjustment (ICA) helps with the optimisation of machine settings. If required, Remote Display Access (RDA) connects the operator to a dealer specialist on the go, giving access to 24/7 product support and training.

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| Machinery

Contact your local dealer AGRICULTURAL MACHINERY P Tuckwell Ltd (Ardleigh) Essex Telephone 01206 230283, Visit www.tuckwell.co.uk

Ripon Farm Services (Darrington) Pontefract Telephone 01977 795241, Visit www.riponfarmservices.com Ripon Farm Services (Ottringham) Hull Telephone 01964 622351, Visit www.riponfarmservices.com

P Tuckwell Ltd (Worlingworth) Suffolk Telephone 01728 628325, Visit www.tuckwell.co.uk P Tuckwell Ltd (Dunmow) Essex Telephone 01371 875751, Visit www.tuckwell.co.uk

GROUNDCARE MACHINERY

P Tuckwell Ltd (Cromer) Hertforshire Telephone 01438 861257, Visit www.tuckwell.co.uk

A J & R Scambler & Sons Ltd Cambridgeshire Telephone 01954 718484, Visit www.compactmachinery.com

P Tuckwell Ltd (Maulden) Bedfordshire Telephone 01525 405848, Visit www.tuckwell.co.uk

Godfreys Kent Telephone 01732 741177, Visit www.godfreys.co.uk

Ripon Farm Services (Keighley) West Yorkshire Telephone 01535 632661, Visit www.riponfarmservices.com

Godfreys East Sussex Telephone 01323 846866, Visit www.godfreys.co.uk

Ripon Farm Services (Ripon) North Yorkshire Telephone 01765 692255, Visit www.riponfarmservices.com

Godfreys Berkshire Telephone 0118 402 6870, Visit www.godfreys.co.uk

Ripon Farm Services (Stockton) County Durham Telephone 01740 630254, Visit www.riponfarmservices.com Ripon Farm Services (Tadcaster) North Yorkshire Telephone 01937 835454, Visit www.riponfarmservices.com www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

April 2016 | Farming Monthly | 55

| ATV

56 | Farming Monthly | April 2016

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| Machinery

Kubota UK enters sponsorship deal with Harper Adams

Leading groundcare and agricultural machinery supplier Kubota UK is lending its support to Harper Adams University by sponsoring machinery for teaching, research, campus upkeep and farm operations.

he first machine to be delivered to the university thanks to this new partnership was Kubota’s RTV400Ci, a powerful and rugged utility vehicle, which has been provided by the company for use by the university’s grounds department. Receiving the RTV on Monday, grounds manager Mark Hall said: “I am very thankful to Kubota. This is a vital piece of kit for us when maintaining the grounds and sports pitches. It will allow us to easily and efficiently move tools and equipment around. “I welcome this opportunity to work with Kubota.” Thanks to the variety of machines it can provide, Kubota UK will be supporting a wide range of work across the university: from

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the RTV for the grounds department, to compact, midrange and agricultural Kubota tractors for the farm, as well as mid-range products for the engineering department, Animal Production, Welfare and Veterinary Sciences Department and Crops and Environment Research Centre (CERC). Phill Brooks, Dealer Manager for Kubota UK’s Agricultural division, added: “Harper Adams is widely recognised as the UK’s leading agricultural university, so we are absolutely delighted to be joining forces with them. “As a business, Kubota is investing heavily as we move into the mainstream agricultural market, which includes the recent introduction of our higher horse power M7001 Series (130hp to 170hp), which we are aiming to be the pride of the Kubota brand. By

working in partnership with the university, it will enable us to build our profile as an agricultural player, as well as access to some of the leading facilities that Harper Adams provide. “As part of our sponsorship, we will provide three or four machines to start with and several later in the year. It’s great to be involved with both the university and the local dealer. It’s the start of a good relationship.” The company has arranged for supply and after sales support via

the Shropshire agricultural dealer, Hughes Brothers, Oswestry. Richard Hughes of Hughes Brothers added: “We’re happy to be part of this; to have a relationship with the university and to push Kubota’s name forward in the agricultural market. Year on year since we became a Kubota dealer, we have grown in all market sectors, from groundcare up to newer, mainstream agriculture products such as the M7001 Series tractor.”

April 2016 | Farming Monthly | 57

| ATV

Express Mowers Ltd Stourbridge, West Midlands T: 01384 443499 www.expressmowers.net

Ermin Plant (Hire & Services) Ltd Gloucester, Gloucestershire T: 01452 526616 www.erminplant.co.uk

Lakedale Power Tools Croydon, Dartford & London T: 020 8683 0550 www.lakedalepowertools.co.uk

World of Power Buxton, Derbyshire T: 01298 213101 www.worldofpower.co.uk

Charles H Hill Ltd Woodhall Spa, Lincolnshire T: 01526 388281 www.charleshhill.co.uk

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| Forestry

Researchers find dissimilar forests are vital for delivery of ecosystem services A team of ecologists from Royal Holloway, University of London has taken part in a large collaborative EU project to find out what the effects of forest tree species diversity are on ecosystem services. These services, which include timber production, carbon storage, and forest resistance to pests and diseases, are crucial to human well-being. ne of the key novel findings of the project published today (March 14) in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the USA, is the consistently negative impact a similarity in tree species composition across the landscape (biotic homogenization) has on the ability of forests to deliver multiple ecosystem services. Forests are becoming dominated by a small number of tree species as a result of species extinctions, tree species selection

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by forest managers, and invasions or planting of exotic species. This process of biotic homogenization is similar to cultural globalization with the global consumer market becoming dominated by the small number of chains (the so-called McDonald’s Effect). Researchers from Royal Holloway’s School of Biological Sciences worked collaboratively with 29 other institutions and combined field data from 209 forest plots across six European countries (Germany, Finland, Poland, Romania, Italy and Spain) with computer simulations to study the consequences of both local

tree species loss and biotic homogenization on 16 ecosystem functions, including timber production, carbon storage, bird diversity, forest regeneration and resistance to insect and mammalian pests. The researchers found that while the effects of local tree species loss were highly variable, the effects of biotic homogenization were almost always detrimental for provisioning of multiple ecosystem services. This means that landscapes containing more dissimilar forests provide more ecosystem services than landscapes where all forest patches were dominated by the same tree species. This is because different tree species are needed to provide different services; for example, in Poland, the Norway spruce provides high quality timber whereas hornbeam forests are better at supporting the diversity of attractive plant species in the understorey that may appeal

to tourists. While many studies have investigated the consequences of species loss for human well-being, this is the first study to show the consequences of biotic homogenization for forest ecosystem services. Professor Julia Koricheva from the School of Biological Sciences at Royal Holloway, whose team contributed measurements of forest resistance to mammalian herbivores, said: “This study shows how important it is to maintain biodiversity in forests not only at the local scale but also at the landscape level”. The findings have implications for forest management and suggest that stopping and reversing the McDonald’s Effect in forestry, by planting forests containing a range of dominant species, will encourage the maintenance of ecosystem processes and services that human well-being depends on.

April 2016 | Farming Monthly | 59

| Tyres

First anniversary for BKT’s multilingual website One year after its launch, the multilingual website www.bkt-tires.com celebrates its first anniversary with over two million pages viewed, in addition to a more than positive trend for social networks. n January 2015, BKT launched the 2.0 version of its own corporate website and the interactive Around BKT Community. One year later, the multilingual portal www.bkttires.com has been visited by more than 20,000 users from all over the world. About 60,000 users follow the BKT profiles on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube. To be a benchmark for professional users of Off-Highway tires worldwide as well as for operators in the agricultural, industrial and OTR sectors – that was BKT’s objective when launching the new website one year ago.

60 | Farming Monthly | April 2016

Undoubtedly an ambitious target, but the data speak for themselves. Since the beginning of last year more than two million web pages have been viewed, for an average of about 30,000 monthly sessions and 20,000 people connecting to www.bkttires.com every month. Today the website is online in five languages: English, Italian, French, German and Spanish. It will be soon available in Portuguese, followed by Russian. Directly linked to the website is the Around BKT community, a virtual meeting point between BKT and its public. It consists in a constantly updated blog with corporate news, technical advice and oddities from the world of

Off-Highway tires, and in an interactive forum where professional users or everyone with a passion for tires can exchange their views. About 60,000 users follow the BKT profiles on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube Great public success also on the corporate social networks where thousands of fans and followers from all over the world, can follow new product presentations and BKT’s participation in international trade shows and events.

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| Tyres

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April 2016 | Farming Monthly | 61

| Tyres

Simon Jackson Contractors Limited completes major tyre investment Salisbury-based Simon Jackson Contractors Limited has invested more than £42,000 in new tyres for its fleet in 2015 after taking advantage of Michelin’s 0 per cent Flexelagri finance offer – enabling the cost to be spread across 24 equal monthly payments. he order for 14 pairs of Michelin MultiBib tyres and two sets of AgriBib fitments has enabled the firm to benefit from premium tyres, but without the need to make a large one-off capital investment or to pay for finance. Simon Jackson Contractors Limited, which covers Dorset and Wiltshire for both highways and agriculture work and extends into Hampshire and Berkshire for agricultural assignments, faced a large tyre bill for its 12-strong fleet of John Deere tractors, which are used intensively for up to 10 hours a day, six days a week. Owner Simon Jackson says: “The tractors had a great deal of life left in them so when we factored in Michelin’s Flexelagri finance deal, it was an easy decision to make to keep them in service and invest in new tyres. I’ve always specified Michelin tyres and wouldn’t fit anything else. For our application, they have proven to be a long lasting hard wearing tyre and deliver outstanding operator comfort.” Before selecting the new tyres Simon Jackson Contractors Limited worked with the local Michelin Exelagri tyre dealer, Micheldever Tyres, and a Michelin account manager, to specify the

62 | Farming Monthly | April 2016

optimum fitments. “For 25 of the 30 years that we’ve been involved in agriculture, Micheldever Tyres have helped to keep the fleet hard at work, by taking care of all our tyre fitting and servicing. They know the business and the applications we cover – plus their Michelin Exelagri accreditation is proof, if more were needed, that our machines are in safe hands.” Simon Jackson Contractors Limited selected the MultiBib tyres for their proven soil protection properties, with the tyres’ large footprint helping to minimise ground compaction by distributing pressure over a wide surface area. For row crop applications, the AgriBib tyres’ optimised rubber compounds offer exceptionally long tyre life. Michelin launched its Flexelagri credit scheme in 2013, becoming the first agricultural tyre manufacturer to offer a finance package of this kind in the UK. Farmers and contractors can use the scheme to access the full range of Michelin agricultural tyres, as well as the specialist wheel rims required for its Ultraflex Technology tyres. For more information about the scheme or to find your nearest participating Exelagri dealer visit www.michelin-agriculturaltyres.co.uk.

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| ATV

Not just attractive to farmers...

Honda ATV High demand for the best-selling range of Honda ATVs means resale values tend to be strong, contributing to low ownership costs, but this also makes them an attractive target for thieves so itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth keeping them out of sight and secured when not in use. n ATVâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s size and weight means two people can easily load it into a trailer or van, even with its keys removed. Keeping it out of sight of farm visitors and from the road will help prevent unwanted attention, but there are also plenty of anti-theft accessories available through Honda main dealers. Fitting permanent marking and identification systems, such as Datatag, allows identification, even if the chassis or VIN numbers have been erased. Warning stickers stating that the machine has been marked raise awareness that it will be difficult to sell on without correct paperwork and reduce its attraction to thieves. Axle and wheel clamps also deter theft, as removing them without the keys or lock codes will take time and create noise, making detection more likely. Chains and cable locks are convenient and easy to transport with the ATV for use anywhere, and also take time to remove, reducing the risk of opportunist theft. Tracking units are growing in

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popularity and, whereas they used to be large and difficult to conceal on the relatively compact ATVs, modern smaller devices are easier to hide but allow tracking and recovery following theft. Most agricultural insurance companies, including the NFU, offer premium and excess discounts for approved anti-theft devices, making them a costeffective investment. So, when buying a used ATV, what steps can a potential purchaser take to make sure they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t end up with a stolen machine? Buying from a Honda main dealer will provide assurance that a machine is genuine. Often, the dealer will have supplied the same machine new, so its history will be known, but even if another company supplied it originally, the VIN number can be checked and the dealer will have made sure it is legitimate. If buying privately, ask to see the original sales invoice and make sure the VIN number matches. If the frame or engine number has been erased or tampered with then walk away, as it can indicate a dubious history and will often be needed when

ordering parts in the future. Common keys tend to be a characteristic of many tractor brands, whereas a Honda ATV will have one of several hundred key and ignition barrel patterns. If the ignition has been replaced by a non-standard screwdriveroperated switch or, even worse, by a pair of wires to touch together, then this should immediately raise suspicion as main dealers can,

relatively cheaply and quickly, supply genuine replacement barrel and key sets to legitimate owners if needed. Often, you will get what you pay for and used Honda ATVs in good working order usually cost more than other brands. If the vendor lacks evidence of legitimate ownership and the deal looks too good to be true, it probably is.

April 2016 | Farming Monthly | 63

| ATV

Polaris made to make it your own

The Sportsman, say Polaris, is engineered to be the hardest working, smoothest riding ATV available. The same goes for Polaris engineered parts and accessories which from the outset are designed, rigorously tested and meticulously fine-tuned alongside the Sportsman.

ake the Polaris Lock & Ride system where products are designed to be installed quickly, without hassle or the need for any special tools. Storage boxes, tool bags and front and rear rack extenders secure your load, with countless tie-down points for bungees, straps and nets, with no rattle and shake, fitting snugly and properly. You can mix and match accessories to customise your ATV and make it your own. Fitting a

light bar, front and rear brush guards and A-arm guards will bring distinctive styling to your Sportsman and protect it off-road. Every 2016 Sportsman comes winch-ready with factory installed wiring built into the chassis. A winch is essential for heavy work applications and as a back-up for compromising conditions and the Polaris winches are quality engineered, easily located and installed with four bolts and premounted electrical connection. Nylon rope is used, making the winch easier to handle than wire, and the handlebar switch fastens

64 | Farming Monthly | April 2016

on with two screws and a quick clip wire connection Come the winter months and you’ll be sweeping snow before you with a Polaris snow plough which installs in seconds with the Lock & Ride technology of a factory installed mount. Drive up, clip in and go with your choice of durable snowplough blade and blade lift and control. Add on snow chains or even tracks and you’re ready for the worst the winter has to throw at you. There’s a whole range of Polaris work and leisure accessories including a selection of wheels and tyres ready for you

to customise your Sportsman for your every need. A winch is essential for heavy work applications and as a back-up for compromising conditions Visit your Polaris dealer for more details or contact Polaris Britain: 0800 915 6720 www.polaris-britain.com

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| ATV

Polaris Sportsman at £4,275 your quad’s in! Polaris has announced a special introductory offer price on the new Sportsman 450 H.O. of only £4,500.00 excluding VAT. Members of the NFU, NFU Scotland and Ulster Farmers’ Union can enjoy the additional 5% discount available to them on the purchase of new Polaris ATVs, bringing the price down to £4,275.00 excluding VAT. his is a great opportunity to buy a full-size capability quad at considerable lower cost than the comparable entry-level price for a 400cc class quad. Taking into account what the Polaris Sportsman 450 H.O. has to offer in addition to the low price it’s a serious contender for any farm. You get the legendary Polaris automatic 4 x 4 system,

Independent Rear Suspension and PVT Automatic Transmission. To run electrical accessories there is a 660 watt output and the ATV comes with integrated plough and winch mounts as standard. Storage is exceptional with the Polaris Lock & Ride system on front and rear racks which let you carry masses of gear. The Sportsman 450 H.O. also offers a massive 1225lbs/557.7kg of towing capacity, Electronic Fuel Injection for flawless starting and

all-wheel braking plus a foot brake for rear wheel braking. All in all, a big package for a small price, but only for a limited period as the special offer ends on 30th June

2016. Polaris recommends contacting your nearest authorised Polaris dealer for full details. www.polaris-britain.com Tel: 0800 915 6720

www.stalhameng.co.uk

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April 2016 | Farming Monthly | 65

| ATV

3-year old

SuzukiKingQuad 500 ATV sees off top racers Nothing beats the adrenaline rush of a quad bike race as you blast across the toughest forest terrain, manoeuvring harsh angles across greasy mud and water-filled tracks. But can you really hope to conquer the factory teams riding their high performance 1000cc racing bikes when you’re on a 3-year-old 500cc ATV with 6,000 miles on the clock? wo Powys farmers have proved that victory comes down to more than just speed after clinching first and second place in the gruelling WOR Events winter series. The challenge was thrown down to friends Martin Benbow and Steve Williams by Suzuki Dealer Phil Pryce after his family dealership loaned Steve a secondhand KingQuad 500 (now known as ‘Old Faithful’) to try out on the farm. Knowing that both farmers were experienced racers (Martin is currently the MCF British Quad XC 4x4 Champion), Phil also knew they were both keen to have a go in a series that has some of the toughest enduro conditions around – but they needed a bike. Phil said, “Suzuki has always been the number one option for work and fun and I knew that if the ATV was good enough to use on

the farm, it would do the enduros even better – two hours through the forest is nothing compared to six months on a hill farm!” In fact, two hours was just the start of many hours of non-stop outstanding performance from the ATV. Following Steve’s first round win, Martin borrowed Old Faithful. Phil said, “Martin is a fast hard rider and had concerns about it lasting the course after its thrashing in the first round, but I told him that nothing he could do would break this ATV. True to form, he absolutely hammered it, but it just kept going.” After being narrowly beaten to second place in his first round, Martin won the next and then proved unstoppable, going on to take the title of series winter champion, with Steve taking second place overall. Martin said, “Neither I nor Steve could believe the levels of reliability and strength of this ATV, or how fuel-efficient it was even flat

66 | Farming Monthly | April 2016

out in racing conditions.” “Over each two-hour series event, the ATV used just half a tank of fuel,” Phil explained. “While other competitors had to stop halfway round the course to fuel up, we never even bothered bringing any fuel down to the track. We didn’t take any spare parts either because I knew the bike wouldn’t need any repairs. “People think that racing is an expensive sport and that you need a glitzy racing ATV to compete, but this event has proved that the outstanding performance of even a 3-year old Suzuki KingQuad 500 that’s done over 1100 hours can get you to the front of the pack through reliability, fuel efficiency and great handling.”

Since Old Faithful re-wrote the rulebook on just how far you can push utility ATVs, Phil’s dealership has already sold four new 500s. Look out for them taking work and fun to the limit near you.

“Suzuki has always been the number one option for work and fun and I knew that if the ATV was good enough to use on the farm, it would do the enduros even better – two hours through the forest is nothing compared to six months on a hill farm!”

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| ATV

New

Kawasaki MULEs arrive at dealers

Announced last year, the two new Kawasaki MULE PRODXT and PRO-DX have now arrived in dealers. esigned primarily for work applications, their high-torque powerful 993 cm3 four-stroke diesel engines deliver excellent performance and allow on-site fuel compatibility. They produce 18kW (24PS) of power and 52 Nm of torque and have a towing capacity of 907kg. Fuel capacity is 30 litres and bright headlights are complemented by auxiliary LED lamps. Hydraulic disc brakes are now fitted as standard to the front and rear and double wishbone suspension enable the wheels to drive over obstacles with minimum effect on the chassis. The Trans Cab system of the PRO-DXT enables the flexibility to maximise either cargo space or people-moving potential. It can be changed from two-person mode to four-person mode in just one minute and by one person. In twoperson mode, the cargo bed capacity is 453kg and in fourperson mode is 158kg. With a greater focus on cargo carrying performance, the PRO-DX features a long, flat cargo bed – the largest in the MULE fleet in fact – which is easy to load from three sides, making it the workhorse of choice for customers who need to haul material. It has a dry weight of under 816kg enabling access to

most weight-restricted areas. The new MULE PRO represents the culmination of over 25 years’ experience in the side x side market in the UK. New from the ground up and designed with our customers in mind, it incorporates many features such as independent all-round suspension, selectable four-wheel drive, disc brakes together with unparalleled comfort for the driver and passengers. The PRO-DX has an RRP of £11,129 + VAT and the PRO-DXT is £12,329 + VAT. Simon Riches, Kawasaki UK Product Manager for ATV and MULE, said: “We’ve had a fantastic response to the announcement of the new MULE machines and we’ve been up and down the country exhibiting the models at shows – with fantastic feedback. “Our dealers have been taking advanced orders since the new machines were announced which is great and now they’ll be taking delivery of their new MULE machines. The MULE brand is synonymous with rugged durability and capability, the PRODXT and PRO-DX promise to be reliable workhorses.” For more information or to see the full model range, visit: www.kawasaki.co.uk or head to your local authorised Kawasaki dealership.

For more information, or to view the whole utility range from Kawasaki, visit: www.kawasaki.co.uk For more information

Contact your nearest dealer

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Jim Price Machinery Ltd Farmore Mills, Shropshire SY7 9QG 01588 673746 www.jimpricemachinery.com

Southam Agri. Services Southam, Warwickshire CV47 2DH 01926 813426 http://southamagri.co.uk

European Golf Machinery Woodbridge, Suffolk IP13 6SL 01473 277177 www.rangeball.co.uk

D H Wadsworth & Sons Malton: 01653 692244 Flockton: 01924 840319 www.wadsworthquads.co.uk

April 2016 | Farming Monthly | 67

Renegade Trailhawk Jeep

| Motors

68 | Farming Monthly | April 2016

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| Motors

Definitely NOT a soft-roader Serious off-road performance is what Jeep has always been about and the Renegade, in Trailhawk trim, is certainly no exception to the rule. his is our third outing in the Renegade, having attended the initial launch in Milan and the subsequent launch to the UK market and I have to say that jumping in the compact SUV again brought back memories of the amazing fun that was had testing the vehicle in all conditions, from surf to forest tracks, muddy courses to motorway munching. Back then (March 2015) we delivered a glowing report for the Renegade – but has our opinion changed? Trailhawk is the top of the range version of the baby Jeep and comes 'ready for the rough stuff' with skid plates, full 4x4 low range transmission,170hp diesel power plant and tow hook.

All Renegade 4x4 models are equipped with Selec-Terrain® to help maximize traction. The system gives the driver four modes–Auto, Snow, Sand and Mud–that can be adjusted according to driving conditions. Renegade Trailhawk® models add a fifth mode: Rock With off-road capabilities to match any vehicle in its class (or any off-roader for that matter) Trailhawk has 'off the beaten track' sewn up. But what's it like on road? Our test model was equipped with 9 speed auto transmission which performs admirably, is smooth to change and barring occasional hiccups, pushes the Renegade onwards very nicely. A full suite of off-road electronics, including Auto, Snow, Sand, Mud and Rock settings is also on offer with the rear axle disengaging when 4wd is not in use to save fuel. The 170bhp diesel power plant is pretty smooth too and whilst a little noisy down low, can achieve very quiet running once you get going – you couldn't say this was unrefined and packs a punch when you need a little more power underfoot. Economy didn't seem exceptional though when taking shorter journeys. Unfortunately, on a journey, you'll probably notice the encroachment of wind noise due in no uncertain terms to the rather large side mirrors. It's the nature of the beast, I'm afraid to say – as the design of the car is chunky and smaller mirrors just wouldn't look right. Perhaps they could be styled a little more aerodynamically? Underway, body roll into corners is, surprisingly, less than you'd imagine and the suspension irons out much in the way of

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uneven and bumpy surfaces – though you'll notice a bit of bounce as it takes care of it. Otherwise, the Renegade offers a decent and refined ride with well weighted and accurate power steering. The interior does have a feel of quality about it, with soft and hard finishes providing a welcome step up from previous older Jeep models. The switchgear is chunky and solid and coloured trim accents abound. Up front, the U-Connect system provides a clear and easy to use interface for many of the systems including sat-nav, media and phone connections. My iPhone was a doddle to connect – not so using some competing systems in previous tests. Seats are supportive and instruments are clear and easy to read – the central digital dash is a nice touch and includes a useful compass display. One of the most obviously things you'll notice is the amount of headroom that is present – it's positively cavernous and provides a great feeling of space in the cabin – especially if the “MySky” panoramic roof is in place. Leg room for rear passengers might be a little tighter than expected for taller passengers. The boot too is quite deceptive – from the outside there doesn't look to be much of one but it's a pleasant surprise when you open the tailgate. With rear seats down, there is a great deal of load space on offer here. The boxy styling of the Renegade might not be to everyone's taste – especially from certain angles – but it does offer something different to the current band of curvy SUVs that litter the roads and there are quite a few 'quirky' touches around the place that give it further personality (check out the Willys jeep climbing the wind shield for example). A couple of things that I'd like to see are a powered rear tailgate and a remote release button inside the cabin (I couldn't locate one and had to use the release on the key fob to pop open the tailgate – maybe I missed something here?) Overall, the Renegade Trailhawk proves an exception to the norm – an SUV with a focus on off-road ability without the formulaic styling. Pretty refined on the tarmac, 5 star NCAP safety and decent equipment levels are all positives but the price tag might be a little rich for what it is. That being said, Jeep do offer some great finance options for those who wish to take that route. At £28,595 OTR this isn't a cheap car – but it's certainly a capable one. Andrew Poulton - Editor

Key Facts Engine

4 cyclinder, 1956cc, 170hp

Transmission

9 - speed Automatic 4X4

Performance

0-62mph 8.9s Top Speed 122

Weights

Kerb weight: 1548kg Towable weight: 1500kg

Fuel Economy

Combined: 47.9mpg CO2 Emissions: 155g/km

Price OTR

£28,595

April 2016 | Farming Monthly | 69

| Motors

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| Motors

Crossroads Garage Ltd Warwickshire Tel: 01608 661544

Great Wall Bath Somerset Tel: 01225 473014

Winchester Motor Co. Hampshire Tel: 01962 866331

www.unityautomotive.co.uk

www.bathhonda.co.uk

www.winchestermotorgroup.co.uk

MTC Great Wall Cambridgeshire Tel: 01733 309782

Garland Great Wall Hampshire Tel: 01252 367373

Olds Motor Group Somerset Tel: 01935 429700

www.mtcars.co.uk

www.winchestermotorgroup.co.uk

www.oldsgreatwall.co.uk

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| Motors

Latest Audi A4 Allroad plots new course for Quattro RHD versions of the first Audi to incorporate the brand’s latest advancement in all-wheel drive will soon be available in the UK. he same composure, controllability and reassurance with major efficiency gains – that was the goal during the development of an entirely new version of the legendary Audi quattro all-wheel drive system, and the all-new A4 allroad quattro is the first in line to reap its benefits. The newly developed, permanently available quattro system with ultra technology will soon become available to order in the UK, initially in conjunction with the 252PS version of the 2.0-litre TFSI engine powering the latest A4 allroad. Three other TDI engine variants in the A4 allroad range will also open for order at the end of April, with first deliveries scheduled to begin in June. Designed for Audi models with longitudinally installed engines, the revolutionary new technology delivers tangible benefits in terms of both fuel efficiency and CO2 output during every journey. Fundamentally, the system deactivates all-wheel drive when it is not needed, but ensures that it is also permanently and

instantaneously available, significantly reducing the potential fuel consumption difference between the two drive configurations. By using a highly intelligent networked sensor system that communicates with a multi-plate clutch and integrated decoupler on the rear axle, the A4 allroad can switch between front- or all-wheel

Infiniti QX30 prices announced Infiniti announces the prices for the line-up of QX30, its new Premium Active Crossover, a few months before the car will be available in showrooms across Europe in early summer this year.

drive in a split-second depending on the driving conditions. True to form, all A4 allroad models will come equipped with

Skoda targets executive expansion with new A+ SUV ŠKODA will further strengthen its appeal among senior level company car drivers when its first A+ SUV is introduced, new research confirms. nveiled at the Geneva International Motor Show, the VisionS concept car gave the world a strong steer on ŠKODA’s hotly-anticipated new large SUV and was met with rave reviews, particularly for its “sleek, chiselled and elegant”* styling. When the production version is revealed later in 2016, it will excite company bosses across the UK, after an in-depth study of the fleet market** by ŠKODA revealed that director-level company car drivers (39%) are more than twice as likely to choose SUVs than their more junior counterparts (19%). With SUVs now the biggestselling model of car in Europe, growing by around 25%*** last

t its market introduction, QX30 will be available in two trim levels, equipped with a 170hp 2.2d diesel engine with an intelligent all-wheel drive system and 7-speed dual clutch transmission. QX30 Premium starts at £29,490, the top version, QX30 Premium Tech, will

be available from £33,370. QX30 has just had its European debut at Geneva Motor Show. It attracts customers seeking a crossover that equally manages urban, winding or rural roads. It offers a series of new intuitive technologies enhancing safety, comfort and convenience, all expressed by a powerful and rugged yet elegant appearance.

72 | Farming Monthly | April 2016

the same home comforts and upto-the-minute technological features that already mark out the A4 Saloon and Avant.

year in the UK, ŠKODA’s next major line-up addition looks set to draw in even more customers. Henry Williams, Head of Fleet for ŠKODA UK, commented:“We had a record year of fleet sales in 2015, with the all-new Superb proving a major hit for its outstanding design, technology, practicality and value for money. This complemented the existing popularity of our other models such as the Octavia. “However, our new large SUV – which will take cues from the VisionS concept car – sees ŠKODA enter an entirely different vehicle segment. We can’t say much more about its pricing or specification, but I can promise that it will give fleet customers exactly what they’re looking for: a great product at a great price.”

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| Motors

AUGUST MOTORS Wiltshire 01722 622 633 www.augustmotors-isuzu.co.uk

DUCKWORTH ISUZU Lincolnshire (South) 01205 449 758 www.duckworthisuzu.co.uk

MARK WEATHERHEAD LTD Cambridgeshire 01954 574 562 www.markweatherhead-isuzu.co.uk

ARCHIE MOSS Leicestershire 01530 553 785 www.archiemoss-isuzu.co.uk

GARLAND MOTORS Hampshire 01252 884 026 www.garland-isuzu.co.uk

HOLDCROFT ISUZU Staﬀordshire 01782 484 954 www.holdcroft-isuzu.co.uk

BOB GERARD LTD Leicestershire 01162 149 052 www.bobgerard-isuzu.co.uk

JEFFRIES OF BACTON Suﬀolk 01449 424 758 www.jeﬀriesofbacton-isuzu.co.uk

MAPLE GARAGE LTD East Yorkshire Tel. 01964 670392 www.maplegarage.co.uk

BURRELLS MOTOR GROUP South Yorkshire 01302 515 763 www.burrellsmotorgroup-isuzu.co.uk

NORTHGATE ISUZU Kent Tel. 01227 829930 www.northgate-isuzu.co.uk

DAVID TAYLOR GARAGES LTD Powys/Gwent 01873 810304 www.davidtaylorgarages-isuzu.co.uk

DUCKWORTH ISUZU Lincolnshire (North) 01673 799 393 www.duckworthisuzu.co.uk

YORK VAN CENTRE North Yorkshire 01904 275 211 www.yorkvancentre-isuzu.co.uk

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| Motors

Upgraded 2016 Subaru Forester New technologies and greater refinement for 2016 Forester, including revised exterior styling, additional soundproofing measures, upgraded cabin and further safety improvements. On sale now from £25,495 (OTR). he Subaru Forester has been upgraded for 2016 to ensure the model maintains its status as one of the most capable and versatile SUVs in its class. The 2016 model-year upgrades to the Subaru Forester – the Japanese manufacturer’s bestselling model in the UK – result in improved safety, convenience, comfort and refinement. The upgraded Subaru Forester will go on sale across the brand’s UK dealer network next month. Pricing remains unchanged for all trim levels in the updated Forester line-up, with the range starting from £25,495 (on-the-road) for the 2.0i XE model and £26,995 for best-selling 2.0D XC models. Every Forester is equipped with two core Subaru technologies: Symmetrical All-WheelDrive, affording surefootedness in all conditions; and the latest-generation fourcylinder ‘Boxer’ engines, contributing to the low centre of gravity beneficial to balance, road holding and handling.

Upgrades to exterior and interior styling The 2016 Subaru Forester has had an exterior and interior refresh. The wraparound headlamps – retaining Subaru’s signature ‘hawk-eye’ shape – feature a new black base paint finish for a sharper appearance. The 2016 model is also fitted with new LED combination lamps at the rear. Already an exceptionally safe vehicle, the 2016 Forester adopts new headlamp technologies which include LED lights with Adaptive Front Lighting System. Inside the cabin, new materials and technologies have been introduced to further modernise the interior and introduce a higherquality look and feel, while still retaining the functionality for which the Forester is renowned. Additional soundproofing measures for significantly improved refinement A series of modifications have been made beneath the surface of the 2016 Forester to greatly improve cabin refinement. Thicker glass has been applied to every door and the front quarter lights at the base of the A-pillar, reducing the ingress of wind ‘rush’ and other

noises into the cabin. Additional soundproofing material has also been added. minimising noise intrusion from wind rush and the engine, respectively. Greater ride comfort and more confidenceinspiring handling The 2016 Subaru Forester features a range of modifications to improve ride quality and agility, and ensure greater refinement for passengers. There are a total of nine models in the 2016 Forester range, starting at £25,495 for the 2.0i XE and £26,995 for 2.0D XC models, and rising to £30,995 for high-powered 2.0 DIT XT versions of the car.

CONTACT YOUR LOCAL DEALER:

Maple Garage Ltd

Perkins

East Yorkshire 01964 670392 www.maplegarage.co.uk

Essex 01371 483 379 www.perkins-subaru.co.uk

MTC Subaru

Central Motors

EMG Motor Group

Cambridgeshire 01733 822 943 www.mtc-subaru.co.uk

Somerset Tel. 01460 64747 www.centralmotors.co.uk

Suffolk Tel. 01284 330535 www.emg-subaru.co.uk

Norfolk Tel. 01553 600205 www.emg-subaru.co.uk

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| Motors

Bentley marks first Bentayga deliveries Bentley Motors has handed over the first Bentayga to customers, at an exclusive event at the company’s global headquarters in Crewe. he event marked a major milestone in Bentley’s history, as customer cars for the brand’s fourth model line – built in Crewe alongside the Continental GT, Flying Spur and Mulsanne – commence delivery around the world. Taking more than 130 hours to produce each car, guests at the event in Crewe were given privileged access to Bentley’s

factory to see the skill and passion involved in Bentayga’s creation, with insight from key people involved in the car’s design, engineering and craftsmanship. Kevin Rose, Member of the Board for Sales, Marketing and Aftersales commented, “This was an historic day for Bentley and it is a great testament to all the work which has gone in to producing Bentayga, the fastest and most luxurious SUV in the world. “The customers who joined us

for the event have followed the Bentayga journey since we proposed the idea of a Bentley SUV, and were among the very first in the world to put their names down on the order book for First Edition cars – many before they had even seen the finished model. Now their confidence in Bentley is repaid as they took delivery of a car which has been unanimously praised by the world’s media. “I would also especially like to thank our 4,000-strong workforce

in Crewe for their commitment in bringing Bentayga to life. Their passion, skill and dedication is a significant part of makes Bentley such an iconic and appealing brand right around the world.” The Bentley Bentayga combines unparalleled luxury with effortless performance and everyday usability. It is designed, engineered and handcrafted in Crewe. Customer deliveries will commence in other regions around the world shortly.

First midsize SUV from Affalterbach The mid-size SUV model series gains a particularly dynamic addition in the form of the new Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC. he 270 kW (367 hp) 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine, the automatic transmission 9GTRONIC with shortened shift times and the AMG performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive configured with a rear bias form the basis for an especially dynamic on-road driving experience. The autonomous design and the specially tuned sports suspension on the basis of AIR BODY CONTROL with adaptive damping adjustment underline the affiliation to the Mercedes-AMG world of Driving Performance. Following the record sales in

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2015 Mercedes-AMG remains on a path of growth: the product range will be extended at high speed in 2016 too. “With the new GLC 43 4MATIC we are offering an AMG model in the mid-size SUV segment for the first time. The new SUV from Affalterbach marks the pinnacle of the GLC product range and in the AMG portfolio it closes the gap between the GLA and GLE,” said Tobias Moers, CEO at Mercedes-AMG GmbH. The 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine is used in numerous AMG performance models and is the only six-cylinder variant available in the GLC. It delivers 270 kW (367 hp) maximum output plus a maximum torque of 520 newton

metres. The GLC 43 4MATIC sprints from rest to 62 mph in 4.9 seconds and its speed is electronically governed at 155 mph. The newly developed front axle, the taut elastokinematics and the highly precise AMG speedsensitive sports steering make a substantial contribution to the agile

driving experience.

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Guy Salmon Knutsford

Kentdale Kendal

01565 632525, www.guysalmon.knutsford.landrover.co.uk

01539 814444, www.kentdale.kendal.landrover.co.uk

Barretts Ashford

Duckworth Land Rover, Boston

01233 506070, www.barretts.ashford.landrover.co.uk

01205 449758, www.duckworthlandrover.co.uk

Barretts Canterbury

Duckworth Land Rover, Market Rasen

01227 475475, www.barretts.canterbury.landrover.co.uk

01673 799393, www.duckworthlandrover.co.uk

Rybrook Huddersfield Land Rover

Conwy Land Rover

01484 516016, www.rybrook.huddersfield.landrover.co.uk

01492 580000, www.conwy.landrover.co.uk

Rybrook Copley Land Rover

Stafford Land Rover

01422 363340, www.rybrook.halifax.landrover.co.uk

01785 214140, www.stafford.landrover.co.uk

Hunters Norwich

Likes Land Rover

01603 944836, www.hunters.norwich.landrover.co.uk

01497 842100, likes.hayonwye.landrover.co.uk

Lloyds Kelso

Cambrian Aberystwyth

01573 224345, www.lloyd.kelso.landrover.co.uk

01970 624841, www.cambrian.aberystwyth.landrover.co.uk

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

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| Motors

Launch of Prince’s Countryside Fund Land Rover Bursary Scheme HRH The Prince of Wales meets Cumbria’s farmers of the future at launch of The Prince’s Countryside Fund Land Rover Bursary Scheme. RH The Prince of Wales met with a group of Cumbrian young farmers learning practical flood resilience driving skills at the Rookin House Activity Centre near Penrith. The visit marks a renewed three-year partnership between his charity, The Prince’s Countryside Fund and Land Rover with this year’s launch of The Prince’s Countryside Fund Land Rover bursary scheme. This valuable bursary seeks to award up to five inspiring young people aged 21 to 35 the use of a Land Rover Discovery Sport for a year to support the development of their countryside careers.

“There’s an acute need for young people to be supported to enter farming and related careers and a multitude of opportunity waiting for them” The UK countryside is in desperate need of talented young people. The average age of a British farmer is 59 and only 4% of the UK’s farmers are under 35. Environmental conservation requires an estimated 30,000 new entrants by 2020 to maintain and protect our countryside, while in forestry, 53% of the

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workforce is over the age of 40. During his visit to Cumbria, HRH The Prince of Wales joined the young farmers in their vehicle training as they developed skills in driving and reversing trailers in and around obstacles, learnt how to check water depth and flow of flooding before carefully driving through the water, and navigated their way around an off-road driving circuit. He also met Mark Curr, Helen Rebanks and her son Issac, the first recipients of the Land Rover Bursary in 2013, to find out how it benefited them. Mark runs a sheep enterprise and is the Chairman of Cumbria Young Farmers; an association that supports young farmers in the region. Helen and her husband James Rebanks are hill farmers at Racy Ghyll Farm, Matterdale. Helen used the Land Rover to transport school children to their “Herdwick School” on the farm, educating the next generation about life and farming on the fells. HRH The Prince of Wales joined the young farmers in training, getting behind the wheel of a Discovery Sport and drove through a beck experiencing the techniques of how to drive in water and negotiate the rocky river bed under the guidance of a Land Rover Experience Instructor. Jeremy Hicks, Jaguar Land Rover UK Managing Director said, “Land Rover is

synonymous with the countryside and we’re looking for the UK’s most enterprising young people who would benefit from the use of a Land Rover Discovery Sport. Access to a 4x4 vehicle can be crucial to getting a rural business off the ground. By providing a vehicle with capability to tackle the most challenging of rural terrains, space for seven and excellent towing capacity, we are aiming to help five ambitious young people to further their rural careers.” Claire Saunders, Director of The Prince’s Countryside Fund said “There’s an acute need for young people to be supported to enter farming and related careers and a multitude of opportunity waiting for them. Whether you’re new to farming, starting a “field to fork” food business or keen to bring new technologies and your skills to the countryside, The Prince’s Countryside Fund is here to support you. That’s why we’re delighted to be working in partnership with Land Rover to provide such practical and valuable support to young people starting out in their rural careers.” Applications must be made online by 29th April 2016. The Prince’s Countryside Fund Land Rover Bursary is open to UK residents aged between 21 to 35 living and working in a rural area. For more information, terms and conditions and details on how to apply please visit: www.princescountrysidefund.org.uk.

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FM Land & Property

Prime Aberdeenshire farm comes onto the market Skares Farm, a compact upland arable and stock farm with a three bedroom farmhouse in Aberdeenshire, is available for buyers to purchase as a whole. he farm is situated in the Glens of Foudland approximately seven miles southeast of Huntly on the A96. The farm extends to 212 acres in total including approximately 173.61 acres that is arable and improved pasture, while an additional 34.47 acres is rough grazings and hill. The farmland is well fenced and watered and is ready for livestock grazing throughout. The land is mainly class 3(2) arable land on the James Hutton Institute’s Land Capability for Agricultural Index and is capable of producing a range of crops including cereals, peas and potatoes. The remainder is classified as 4(1) and 4(2). Skares Farmhouse is a traditional one and a half storey, three bedroom property built of traditional harled stone with a pitched slate roof. There is a single storey scullery extension to the rear and a slate roofed bathroom extension to the side. It has aluminium framed double glazed windows and oil fired central heating. Internally, the property is in need of modernisation and upgrading, and refurbishment is ongoing. Externally, it provides a range of modern and traditional outbuildings, including a steel framed dutch barn, cattle court and workshop/garage along with an extensive yard area adjacent. Skares Farm is being marketed through Bell Ingram and is for sale as a whole for offers over £620,000. James Petty of Bell Ingram in Aberdeen, said: "We are delighted to be able to offer Skares Farm to the market.

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“It is a productive and well situated farm which includes 212 acres of mainly class 3 land. It is capable of supporting both livestock and arable production and I think this property offers excellent value for money.” More information on Skares Farm can be found at www.bellingram.co.uk or by calling Bell Ingram’s Aberdeen office, 01224 621 300

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Land & Property FM

Humberts launches Hurley Farm, a residential and equestrian holding with 110 acres, to the market Humberts has recently launched Hurley Farm, a residential and equestrian property just one mile from Corfe and five miles from Taunton, for sale to the open market at a guide price of £1.5 million. he farm, which sits within 110 acres in open countryside, comprises a five-bedroom farmhouse; a substantial traditional stone barn with potential to convert; a range of modern livestock, equestrian and machinery buildings, attractive and undulating pasture for equestrian or livestock usage. The farmhouse is beautifully positioned with the main rooms enjoying views over the farmland and the open countryside. It is well presented with a range of period features such as an inglenook fireplace. The property extends to almost 3,000 square feet and with five bedrooms, it offers spacious and flexible living space. The farm buildings are situated to the south of the farmhouse. As well as the traditional stone barn, which offers the opportunity to convert subject to planning permission, the property also offers a range of modern farm buildings including a covered yard, a dry store, a monopitch loose box, three covered yards, a Dutch barn, a general purpose store and a livestock store. The land on Hurley Farm is ring fenced which provides privacy and amenity to the farm. The land can be accessed from both the local road and from the farm drive. The land is gently undulating, making it ideal for grass production to serve an equestrian or livestock business

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David Hebditch, Head of Humberts’ Rural team, commented on the property: “The prime location of Hurley Farm at the edge of the Blackdown Hills and with its easy access to Taunton make it quite a rare find in the market at the moment. ‘With 110 acres in an attractive location and offering a home as well as a good range of modern and traditional farm buildings, Hurley Farm is sure to appeal to a broad audience. We are seeing an increase in lifestyle buyers moving from London and the Home Counties to the West Country for a change of pace. Hurley Farm is likely to attract attention from these buyers who are likely to be drawn to the five bed home as well as the opportunity to convert the traditional stone barn. With its range of traditional and modern farm buildings, we expect other interest to come from local farm and land owners looking to expand their own operations or from someone with an interest in an equestrian or livestock business, for which Hurley Farm is excellently equipped.” Hurley Farm is offered for sale by private treaty at a guide price of £1.5 million. Potential purchasers are invited to contact David Hebditch or Jack Mitchell at Humberts on 01823 331234 for further details or to arrange a viewing.

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