INSIDE: RIDBA Awards page 42 - 51
Farming MONTHLY National
August 2021
| On Topic
Helix Technology Farms Improving productivity and Profitability
UK Dairy Day Page 66
Also inside this month..
page 16
Women in Farming
Honda Pioneer
New Class Trion Combine
PLUS: Arable| Grain | Potatoes | Building | Machinery |Pig |Mental Health| Livestock| ATV | Motors
+ Automatic systems + Manual Systems + Precision moisture
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+ Long life + Round bales + Square bales
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CONTENTS A u g u s t 2021
FEATURES 22
18 28 32 40 52 54 58
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Arable Warwickshire-based agri-tourism business shortlisted for a top rural award
Potatoes New mobile washing system creates efficiencies for major UK potato supplier
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61 66
Grain Women in farming
Energy Climate emergency cannot be fixed by technology alone
The Glamping Show The Glamping Show 2021 is heading into its seventh year
Farming Monthly | August 2021
UK Dairy Day UK Dairy Day 2021 – We’re Back and Good To Go
68 74
Livestock Breedr trades £1.85m of cattle since its launch in February
Muck and Slurry Hi-Spec Engineering have the ideal solution in their comprehensive range
National
August Women in Farming, Whizz Middleton who does a bit of everything...
Visiting British farmland improves our mental health, new survey finds
Top tips for feeding this year's silage
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FM REGULARS
Grain Handling, Drying & Storage Solutions from Perry of Oakley
Menal Health
Grassland and Silage
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06 16 42
News Fairfields Farm Teams Up with The Prince's Countryside Fund…
On Topic New tech delivers tangible benefits to farm profitability
Buildings Designing Steel Framed Buildings for Fire
80 86 96
Machinery Complete new TRION combine range designed to ‘Fit your Farm’
ATV Kawasaki announce complete 2022 MULE and ATV line-up
Motors Jeep Reveals First Images of All-new 2022 Electrified Jeep Grand Cherokee
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The Glamping Show 2021 is heading into its seventh year August 2021 | Farming Monthly | 5
| News
Arla's on-farm R&D facility was formally launched last week, showcasing a range of cutting-edge trials that are testing the tech of the future he Arla UK 360 'Innovation Farm' near Aylesbury is run by the Dyson family and serves as a central hub to host or participate in the cutting-edge trials Arla is undertaking to lead the dairy agenda, to assess the risk, costs and benefits before sharing this with Arla farmers. The farm will also be used as an education centre for Arla to share its learnings with other Arla members, foodservice and retail customers and industry stakeholders.
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Major projects currently in progress include: 1.
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The Happy Cow Measure: Development of an animal wellbeing measure together with FAI and Nedap. Identifying and exploring positive behaviours that can be automatically monitored for dairy cattle to create a "Happy Cow Measure" based on automated cow behavioural monitoring (using tags, collars, sensors and location data). Automation of Animal Outcome Data: HerdVision scanners (by agri-tech firm Agsenze) are being trialled in an industry-leading study that aims to monitor cow lameness and body condition more consistently, objectively and effectively.
The latest Arla UK 360 trial at the farm sees European agricultural technology business, N2 Applied, carrying out its first large-scale commercial trial of a breakthrough technology that minimises harmful emissions and enriches the nutrient content of slurry. Using a scientific technique that applies just air and electricity to the liquid waste material, the N2 Unit can significantly reduce the harmful emissions caused by slurry production in the UK. It does this by fixing nitrogen from the air and absorbing it into the slurry. As a result, methane and ammonia is essentially trapped within the slurry, reducing the amount of ammonia and methane released into the air. The project will assess how practical it is for the technology to be adopted as part of the ongoing daily practice of running a farm. "This technology has potentially profound implications for the UK's dairy food sector. The ability to cut slurry-based ammonia emissions offers a pathway to practical testing of methane
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Farming Monthly | August 2021
emission reduction, and a giant leap towards the industry becoming net-zero and helping to tackle climate change," said Carl Hansson, CEO, N2 Applied. "We have high hopes for the trial, and thank both Arla Foods and the Dyson family for their collaboration in investigating the potential. We know that trials of the technology elsewhere in Europe have seen ammonia and methane emissions being greatly reduced, Nitrogen Use Efficiency (NUE) increased and improvements in soil health and crop yield, Here, we are assessing how the Unit performs in reducing emissions when it is installed in a commercial dairy farm" he said. "2050 is a long way off, but to meet our goals of carbon net zero farming we need to start looking at technologies that can help us now", explains Alice Swift, Agriculture Director, Arla Foods UK. "Our Innovation Farm allows us to work with partners like N2 to investigate the feasibility of cutting-edge technology like this on our farmers' behalf, to see what's possible and what might be commercially feasible for our farms in the future. This trial shows there is indeed technology out there to help us meet our goals – but we need to find ways of making these work on a practical and affordable level on farm, which is what this project will explore." Provisional N2 trials suggest the treated slurry may also benefit crop yields as a fertiliser due to its nitrogen content and Nitrogen Use Efficiency (NUE) . Therefore, the Arla UK 360 project is also undertaking three independently verified crop testing projects comparing crop performance using slurry that has been processed through the plasma reactor versus untreated slurry, with results expected later in the year. Alongside these, there are a range of other research projects taking place both at the Arla Innovation Farm and Arla 360 Farms across the UK, made in part possible through the support of Morrison's and Aldi to the Arla UK 360 programme. These primarily focus on areas future development in farm practice, including animal welfare and the environment. It is Arla's long-term intention that knowledge gained from these projects is shared to help make both Arla dairy farms and the wider industry more sustainable.
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Scottish berry supplier Angus Soft Fruits to eliminate over 150 tonnes of single use plastic a year
cottish berry supplier, Angus Soft Fruits, will eliminate over 150 tonnes of single use plastic over the next 12 months as the company switches to 100% recycled material in its punnets of strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, and raspberries.
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Angus Soft Fruits is working with its long-term supplier, Waddington Europe, which has successfully developed a punnet that is both fully recyclable and made from 100% recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET).
Europe, have achieved this and we look forward to working closely with them to continue to promote circularity in soft fruit packaging.
European thermoforming packaging specialist. Last year they achieved Zero Waste to Landfill status across all their manufacturing sites and this summer they joined forces with long-standing packaging distribution partner, Produce Packaging, to introduce their new Eco Blend® 100 range of punnets made from 100% rPET.
"We are also looking to increase the monitoring of biodiversity, food waste and carbon emissions on our farms as well as significantly reduce food waste. Ultimately, we want to be net zero throughout our supply chain, from grower to customer, by 2040 and we want to share the best practices that we develop with our overseas growers.
Managing Director of Waddington Europe, Eduardo Gomes, commented: "Angus Soft Fruits is one of our largest customers, and we are delighted to be
PET is considered a highly recyclable plastic, however the food industry has found it hard to collect clean, high quality plastics that can re-enter the cycle as food-grade containers. Angus Soft Fruits supplies most of the leading supermarkets in the UK and last year, produced enough deliciously sweet berries to fill over 42 million plastic punnets. The company is also working closely with Waddington Europe to achieve a 5-10% gauge reduction across all Waddington Europe punnets. Newly appointed Sustainability Coordinator at Angus Soft Fruits, Catherine Russell commented: "We have ambitious sustainability plans here at Angus Soft Fruits across packaging, carbon emissions, biodiversity and food waste, and we are pleased to announce that almost all the berries we supply will now be packaged in 100% rPET punnets. "Previously our punnets were made from 80% recycled materials as it has always been a challenge for the food industry to find sufficient volumes of clean, high-quality plastics that can be recycled and enter the market as food grade containers. We're pleased that our long-term suppliers, Waddington www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
Moving our punnets sold in the UK to 100% rPET is a step in the right direction to achieving these goals." For the past six years Angus Soft Fruits, home to premium berry brand AVA Berries, has worked with Waddington Europe and together they are reducing the environmental impact of berry production.
assisting them on their sustainability journey. The majority of our food-grade, high quality rPET is sourced as locally as possible from the UK and Ireland; some is also ethically sourced from our European recycling partners. Our Eco Blend® 100 range is made from 100% rPET which is a mixture of both recycled post-consumer waste and post industrial waste and is also 100% recyclable after use."
Located across the UK and Ireland, Waddington Europe is a leading August 2021 | Farming Monthly | 7
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Products built to perform on your farm T
he Ares BTX 3-meter disc harrow has 2 rows of 12 independently sprung 560mm discs which are well suited for shallow surface seed chitting to a maximum cultivation up to 170mm working depth. Standard specification includes NSK bearings, LED lights, active side screens and straw tines and deflector board between the discs. The Ares BTX can be combined with the Atom GT subsoiler as a single pass unit for the min till operation of directly after ploughing removing compaction pans and aerating the soil with a maximum working depth of 450mm The straw tines aid the seedbed preparation and even spreading of debris when operating the discs at 25mm depth for seed chitting. For final soil preparation the disc operated at your preferred cultivation depth in combination with the Atom subsoiler will provide a finished seedbed ready to for drilling. The deflector board keeps the soil supressed in front of the rear disc when high operating speeds are achieved. As soil passes through the first disc is will be naturally thrown upwards. During high operating speeds this soil will hit the deflector board which diverts the soil downwards for the second row of discs to cultivate. The impact will also aid soil crumbling aiding soil preparation. The steel ring packer provides excellent final soil preparation. Breaking any final soil lumps and providing an even soil consolidation. Various packers are available to suit your needs. The PUMA seed bed cultivator has been designed with strength, quality and consistency at its core. The initial toothed levelling board effectively shatters large lumps as the soil then passes through the front depth control cage roller further preparing the soil structure for drilling. The standard heavy duty vertical sprung tines provide excellent penetration even in the most challenging soil types. The passive spring action crumbles the soil to its final seed bed readiness. Due to the vertical entry point the tines do not flick stones towards the surface. By utilising the heavy-duty tine, the rigidity of the tine is maintained which increases the effectiveness of the working tine. The added benefit of a vertical placed tine is any crop residue is evenly distributed and not collected and transported to the lifting out of work point. The final standard accessory is the standard steel ring packer. Other packer options are available but in combination on the Puma cultivator it provides market leading consolidation and final seedbed preparation. After ploughing PFC used this Puma on a single pass then drilled with their tine drill for winter wheat. Establishment has been exceptional with an even consistence seedbed produced.
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PRODUCTS BUILT TO August ON 2021 | Farming MonthlyFARM |9 PERFORM YOUR
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BERRY NICE JOB! STRAWBERRY BREEDER GETS PAID TO TRAVEL WORLD TO CREATE AND TASTE JUICIEST FRUITS eet the woman who may have the world's sweetest job - travelling the world creating and tasting some of the juiciest strawberries. Lucy Slatter is head breeder at AVA Berries and is paid to matchmake and scoff the most attractive-looking and tasting fruits available. The fruit breeder has held the plum role for just five months but has enjoyed a life-long love affair with the scarlet fruit.
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From a young age Lucy has enjoyed tucking into a bowl of strawberries, and now gets paid to pair the best plants together and try up to 20 a day. When she's not shooting Cupid's bow at the perfect parent plants, Lucy also gets the chance to jet abroad to fruit farms in the Netherlands and Spain to oversee the creative process and bring them back to the UK. Lucy is responsible for creating the best looking and tastiest strawberries for AVA Berries and says it's a 'dream' job. Lucy said: "I've always been a berry lover. I don't know any other job where you get paid to eat strawberries, that's a serious perk of the job. "No two days are the same, the nature of breeding is very dynamic and fast paced. "I also get to travel quite a lot. I'm based near Evesham in Worcestershire, but we have trial sites in Scotland and additional trial sites around the country and in Europe including Spain and the Netherlands. "It's absolutely great to see how the fruit's doing in different places and get to explore these places, it's a dream scenario." When she's not matchmaking the perfect parent plans, Lucy said she gets
the chance to taste the fruit of her labours every single day.
Lucy said: "As soon as there's fruit on the plant, we have the opportunity to taste it. "Most days there's some sort of tasting going on. This can vary from just off the plant and getting a feel for if we like it to more official structured tastings with us and with panels of people. "In theory we could be tasting hundreds a day, but we don't, we have to scale that back a bit. We try and aim for no more than 20 a day. "My perfect berry is a good-sized one with a lovely typical conical shape with a really nice shiny, glossy bright red colour. "You've got to be a very specific matchmaker when it comes to creating a juicy-tasting glossy-looking fruit. "The way we achieve this is we choose varieties that we would like to use as parents, and we choose these based on their characteristics. "If we have a variety that we really like but is a bit weaker in other areas, for example a shiny strawberry that is a bit weaker on flavour, then I would consider crossing it with something with a stronger flavour. "In the process of crossing, we combine the female part of one plant and the male part of another to mix up the two genetics, so you end up with lots of siblings to choose from. "Then we start testing these over years to select the best ones. "I really enjoy the start and the end of the process. Where you get a chance to choose the varieties that will shape our future in five-eight years' time it's really exciting.
"Equally at the other end I really enjoy the selection process- you get to taste the fruit and decide if you think it's better than others available. It's absolutely fascinating. "It can take at least eight years to make it to the supermarket. It's a labour of love but definitely worth the wait." But not just anyone can do the role. The perfect breeder and taster needs a specific palate, that is regularly tested, to ensure the tastiest berries hit supermarket shelves. Lucy said: "We regularly screen everyone in the business to see who can really distinguish between different tastes. "Believe it or not a lot of people either can't taste particular flavours or muddle up sugar and salt. "We need to be confident that our strawberries have the best flavour so we need to make sure those people with the full range are testing them. "There aren't many of us that can do this and if I were to lose my taste, for example from covid or a cold, it would make my job a lot harder. "We cleanse our palates between tastings either with water or a table biscuit or cracker as they really clean your mouth out. "The other one to be proven or disproven is champagne. It would be a lovely decadent way to spend the day, but I'm not sure what our company policy would say about that."
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Fairfields Farm Teams Up with The Prince's Countryside Fund to say Thank You Farmers Founded by HRH The Prince of Wales in 2010, The Prince's Countryside Fund's vision is the only UK-wide charity that empowers family farms and rural communities to ensure their future. Over the past decade, The Prince's Countryside Fund has invested more than £10 million to over 400 projects working across the UK which improve service provision in rural areas, support farming businesses and rural enterprises, and provide training opportunities for young people. We've supported nearly 1000 farming families to take charge of their business through The Prince's Farm Resilience Programme, and working with our Farm Support Group Initiative, helped countless others to access local support when it's needed most.
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ounded by HRH The Prince of Wales in 2010, The Prince's Countryside Fund (PCF) is the only UK-wide charity that empowers family farms and rural communities to ensure their future.
This summer, Essex potato grower and crisp producer, Fairfields Farm, is working with The Prince's Countryside Fund as part of its 'Thank You Farmers' initiative throughout August to pay a debt of thanks and gratitude to the country's hard-working farmers following such a difficult year. To support their work, Fairfields Farm has pledged a proportion of online sales for the month. "As farmers ourselves, we completely understand the problems the rural economy has faced over the last year and I think it's easy to forget that it's the sector that has kept food on shelves throughout this pandemic. We had to change our business overnight, and it was really scary and hard work - but we got through it. Working with The Prince's Countryside Fund gives us the chance to thank our fellow farmers for their hard work," says Laura Strathern, co-founder of Fairfields Farm.
independent business, the values of the PCF really align with its own and throughout August it will be running an offer giving 5% discount on online purchases and a 5% donation to The Prince's Countryside Fund through http:/ /fairfieldsfarmcrisps.co.uk. It will also promote the campaign with leaflets and social media activity. "We are very pleased to be part of this year's campaign and to help The Prince's Countryside Fund raise vital money to help rural communities," continues Laura. "As a business we place great emphasis on working with the countryside, its environment and other local farmers so this is a great fit for us. We look forward to supporting the campaign this summer as the rural economy gets back on its feet."
The 'Thank You Farmers' initiative also coincides with National Countryside Week, running from 9th to 15th August, during which PCF will officially launch its new Friends of the Countryside supporter scheme, with the aim of inspiring support, raising vital donations and increasing its visibility by raising awareness. "The countryside, what it does, what it produces and what it offers, has an impact on us all. The Prince's Countryside Fund wishes to see a thriving countryside – a living, breathing, working place that is there for everyone. Our work coalesces around three pillars: enabling family farms to thrive, building confident rural communities, and inspiring support. "We achieve these aims through our programmes and initiatives, from providing free business skills and environmental management training to farming families, to investing in essential rural services," explains Keith Halstead, Executive Director of The Prince's Countryside Fund. "The vital work of family farms and rural communities often goes unseen, however the PCF can ensure their voices are heard and they receive the local support they need to look after our countryside and to thrive." For Fairfields Farm, as a small, family-run and www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
August 2021 | Farming Monthly | 11
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Warwickshire-based agri-tourism business, Farm Stay UK, shortlisted for a top rural award local, not-for-profit agritourism business is in the running to be named one of the best rural businesses in the UK after being shortlisted for a regional Rural Business Award.
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including RBA Best Rural Tourism Business and RBA Champion of Champions 2017 Director and Co-Founder of The Rural Business Awards, Jemma Clifford, added: "We are excited to celebrate the
The Awards are organised by rural business for rural business, with winners in the 13 categories - ranging from Best Rural Start-up and Best Rural Diversification Project; through to Best Rural Professional Services Business and Best Rural Innovation - decided by
Farm Stay UK, which has its Headquarters at the National Agricultural Centre at Stoneleigh, near Kenilworth will battle it out against fellow rural businesses, entrepreneurs and enterprises from across the region for a place at the national final. The regional final will be held virtually in October 2021, with the National Final taking place early next year. The news follows a record-breaking year for the business, which is now the market leader in farm holidays and rural stays throughout the UK. Originally founded as the UK's first notfor-profit farmer owned consortium aimed at promoting the country's agritourism industry, the organisation has now grown to offer over 420 farm stays and rural boltholes, from working farm holidays to self-catering, B&B's to glamping across England, Northern Island, Scotland and Wales. This year, Farm Stay not only launched a new website but saw its bookings surge 45%, the greatest increase in its 38-year history. The Rural Business Awards 2021/2022, in partnership with Amazon, will mark the Awards' seventh year of celebrating the success of businesses across the UK's rural economy. The Awards are organised by rural business for rural business with the aim of celebrating the achievements of rural businesses and developing a strong network for rural business owners. Speaking after being shortlisted for an award, David Brown, Farm Stay Director, says: "We're delighted that our hard work and dedication in boosting both Farm Stay membership numbers and raising the profile of farm stays and rural businesses throughout the UK is being recognised. "In an increasingly competitive marketplace, it's wonderful to know that as one of the original accommodation listing sites in the UK, our member's offering is more relevant and more popular than ever before," ends David. David, pictured here (attached) with his wife Felicity, has a better understanding than many on how important the RBA awards are for a business. As well as being a Farm Stay Director, his Derbyshire based agri-tourism business, Hoe Grange Holidays has won an impressive clutch of national awards 12 |
Farming Monthly | August 2021
2021/2022 awards after such a challenging year for businesses. We are passionate about creating a nurturing environment where rural businesses can develop, and this starts by showcasing the great work they do. On behalf of everyone at the Rural Business Awards, we want to say well done to Farm Stay UK and wish them luck ahead of the regional finals." The Rural Business Awards is the brainchild of Leicestershire businesswomen Anna Price and Jemma Clifford, who wanted to showcase the wealth of entrepreneurial talent in rural areas of Britain.
an independent panel of judges drawn from the rural business sector, rural public sector agencies, and rural charitable organisations. The Rural Business Awards is hosting a series of regional finals in the North, East, Midlands, South West, Wales and Northern Ireland, throughout October 2021, ahead of the National Final next February. To find out more about Farm Stay UK go to www.farmstay.co.uk or to learn about the Rural Business Awards visit www.ruralbusinessawards. co.uk
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The National Farm Management Conference is back this November
he National Farm Management Conference is back for another year with an exciting new theme focusing on the future of agricultural management. The conference, titled ‘Agriculture 2028 – transitioning to life beyond direct payments’, welcomes both members and non-members of the Institute of Agricultural Management (IAgrM) and will take place in London at the Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre on 16th November 2021. Speaking about the conference, Carl Atkin, vice chairman at IAgrM, says: “After over 20 years of direct payments coming to an end in the near future, we felt the industry needs to think about what’s next. “There’s a lot of talk about the approaching changes, however, we want to take the debate forward, to what it will look like afterwards, delving into skills, competencies and issues that those working in agricultural management need to be aware of to future proof their farm businesses. “Therefore, we’ve created a showstopping line up of key
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industry speakers, including those with the boots on the ground who are already putting these practices into place on-farm.” Nicholas Saphir, chair of the AHDB, will open the sessions by setting the scene on where the industry is likely to be in the next 10 years and highlighting where skillset and knowledge gaps may be. This will be followed by a series of debates and panel discussions which will delve into these potential gaps, exploring a range of subjects including, trade and competitiveness, farm management skills, technology, innovation and entrepreneurship. Mr Atkin says that this comes at the right time, following 18 months of no contact with peers. “This event isn’t just about the interesting and informative speakers but also gives attendees the opportunity to network with their peers and learn from one another.” To book your tickets please visit the National Farm Management conference website: www.iagrm.com/conference.
Providing for non-farming children P assing assets on to nonfarming children may seem complicated but there are options to do so while keeping the farm intact.
option or covenant for the farming child to have first refusal to purchase them if and when sold. If property assets are off-farm, like buy-to-lets, this is less likely to be a necessity.
present.”
Another option is to put in place a Whole of Life insurance policy, suggests Mrs Banwell. “This is a policy which pays out a lump sum upon death – providing the premiums are paid throughout your lifetime.
For any farming family with more than one child there will be a point at which the topic of inheritance is raised and how the assets will be divided, particularly if not all the children are involved in the farming business, explains Julia Banwell, director and chartered financial planner at rural accountant, Old Mill. “On the whole, most will want to keep the farm as intact as possible, so how can parents provide for their non-farming offspring?”
“There is also an option to nominate pensions upon death to the non-farming children, and savings and cash funds could be similarly used. However, it is important to work through the cost of inheritance tax to understand exactly what will be left for them after the tax bill has been met,” she adds. “Where there are no off-farm assets, there is the option to divide the farm – though this is rarely the preferred choice. In this situation, the main farm area could be left to the farming child, with outlying land allocated to the other children – again perhaps with an option to purchase stated in the Will for the farming child,” explains Mrs Banwell.
As an example, if a male aged 65 and a female age 62, both non-smokers, wanted a £1m pay-out with a fixed premium, it would cost £1,663/month for the rest of their lives – or just under £20,000/year. “It would take more than 50 years for them to have paid into the policy the amount to be received,” she explains.
Splitting the inheritance fairly doesn’t necessarily mean equally, she says. “Fair is your own assessment of what you believe is right. So when you are considering how to divide assets between the children, the most important thing is that you are comfortable with the split, whether that is equal or not.”
“Alternatively, the entire farm could be left to all the descendants, with some or all of it in trust. This means that if land is sold, the proceeds will be split between all of them.”
In comparison, if the farming child has to take out a £1m loan upon death to buy out their siblings at an interest rate of 3.5% over 25 years, this would cost them £5,006/month; just over £60,000/ year.
But when it comes to assessing assets, what should be considered? “Family farmers often have farm cottages, pensions, savings or buy-to-let properties which can be used to provide a lump sum to non-farming children,” says Mrs Banwell. Though cottages often remain with the farm, they could be left to non-farming children with the Will containing a set www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
Where some of the farmland has development potential, it may be sensible to treat it differently to the rest of the farm. “The potential development land could be left in trust to all of the children, with a proviso that it can be let to the farming child while it remains undeveloped,” she says. “Or it could be left to the non-farming children only, with an expression that there should be the option for the farming child to rent it prior to development.” “And transferring this type of land to a trust before death could lock in Agricultural Property Relief or Business Property Relief as they are set at
“Though it involves paying a premium every month, it can be far more costeffective than the farming child needing to borrow money to pay off their siblings.”
“Borrowing funds after death means that they would need to repay both the original borrowed sum of £1m, plus interest - taking the total cost of actioning this post death to around £1.5m. Like most things, it is significantly less expensive if it is possible to plan for this in advance. “There are many aspects and options to consider before drawing conclusions,” says Mrs Banwell. “It is sensible to involve all parties to help you reach the most equitable solution for your own family, providing significant peace of mind in later years.” August 2021 | Farming Monthly | 13
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Farm Photo Competition Now Open for Entries in the South West WAG SouthWest’s Farming & Wildlife annual awards recognise commercial farms that have successfully combined food production with sustainability, environmental protection and wildlife gains. The competitions are a highlight of our calendar, and an opportunity to build strong relationships between farmers and the wider community, showcasing the wonderful conservation work many farmers carry out across the south west. Due to current uncertainties, normal proceedings have been on hold this year, to keep our farmers and judges safe. However, in its place for 2021, we are holding a different kind of conservation competition; 'A Photo From Your Farm'. The 2021 competition is now open for entries, and farmers and landowners in
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the south west are invited to enter! Entrants simply need to send one or two photos taken on your farm and answer a few simple questions. It only takes about 5-10 minutes to enter. Gary Rumbold, FWAG SouthWest General Manager, stated: ‘Our annual Conservation Competitions are a fantastic way of celebrating the hard work of farmers across the south west – not only for striving to better their farm businesses, but in their tireless and inspirational care for wildlife and the environment, protecting it for future generations. Although we haven’t been able to host our competitions in the usual format this year, I hope this region-wide photo competition will keep that spark alive and give us another reason to celebrate farming in the south west this summer’. In September a judging panel will pick the winners and we will display the
winning photos in the upcoming FWAG SW printed members newsletter, which is posted to over 1000 members, friends and partners. One overall regional winner will be crowned and offered the opportunity to host a farm walk later this year (organised by FWAG SW) or a virtual tour depending on government guidance at the time. The winner will also win a £100 Mole Valley voucher! ‘A Photo From Your Farm’ is open to all landowners and farmers in the south west and you don’t need to be a FWAG SouthWest member to enter. The competition this year is not affiliated with our standard competitions, so any of our previous competition winners are also welcome to enter. The competition will close on 31st August 2021. Full information and a link to enter here: https://www.fwagsw.org.uk/2021conservation-competition
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RABI announces appointment of new trustee ABI is delighted to welcome Mark Herrod to the Council of Trustees. Appointed at the Annual General Meeting in June, Mr Herrod is an executive director and company secretary of the Lamport Group of Companies in Northamptonshire and a qualified Chartered Surveyor. RABI is the third charity Mark has been involved with, using his experience as a trustee to provide a useful source of charitable governance, aiding the charity’s leadership team. “After studying farming from the age of 16 before moving to pursue different opportunities, I came back to my rural roots, quickly becoming acutely aware of how valuable the farming community is, especially in preserving our landscape and bringing communities together in otherwise isolated parts of the country,” Mark explains. “Over the years, I’ve encountered many farming families who are facing challenges, often through things which are beyond their control. Therefore, I’m extremely proud to be working with an organisation that provides an increasingly diverse range of support services to farming people and their families, whether that be financial support or providing specialist advice to help them overcome the challenges they face.” “Agriculture is facing an exciting and challenging time, which means farming charities like RABI are more important than ever. “Although I’m under no illusion that this role will involve careful consideration as to how future strategies are formed, RABI has a clear direction of travel to ensure it is able to help the farming community transition into this new era of agriculture. This, coupled with having a fantastic chair of trustees and chief executive in place, means trustees have a clear vision of what RABI is aiming to achieve.” As a trustee, Mark will serve up to two, four-year terms in his position, joining an enthusiastic Council who all have strong links to agriculture. Speaking about the appointment, Jeanette Dawson, chair of RABI said: “At a time when the farming community is facing multiple pressures and changes, we’re delighted Mark has joined the Council of Trustees. As a charity, RABI is striving to ensure it can better meet the needs of the farming community, and drawing on expertise from across the industry will help take us from strength to strength.”
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Mark Herrod, Trustee RABI
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New tech delivers tangible benefits to farm profitability he decision to take part in a unique initiative that develops the latest farming technology and innovations in real-life situations is delivering significant benefits to the bottom line for one Northamptonshire farmer.
surprisingly accurate, coming back to within 0.1-0.2% of the actual level achieved last harvest. This year he has therefore used the test again to finetune late nitrogen applications and predicts it should deliver a significant financial benefit.
Soil focus Soil health underpins much of the work within Helix and is an area where the benefits of new approaches can become very apparent, especially in seasons such as the past two, which have tested the resilience of soils to extremes of both wet and dry weather.
Andrew Pitts of J W Pitts & Sons, Whiston, started hosting the National Helix Technology Farm in 2019, providing a testbed for technology and ideas designed to drive forward productivity and maximise environmental sustainability.
Grain protein predictions from flag leaf samples suggested the crop would fall short of the required milling specification, so an additional 40 kg N/ha was applied as a late foliar treatment, which should raise grain protein from an average of 11.8-11.9% to over 13%, enough to qualify for a £20/t milling premium over feed wheat.
Since the farm stopped routine ploughing back in 2006, it has been on a continuous journey towards a less intensive cultivation system, culminating in a move to direct drilling in 2015 once soil organic matter and structure had improved enough to make it work, Mr Pitts explains.
“Across 1,000 tonnes of wheat, that £20/t equates to £20,000 in the bank. The tissue test cost us about £200 for four leaf samples, and even if we allow a generous £5,000 for the late nitrogen product and its application, there’s still potentially a very sizeable net benefit.
The benefits to soil health have been significant, as evidenced by the Yara trial which found a Nitrogen Use Efficiency of around 75%, which is well above the 50-60% more typical of UK arable farms. “That’s primarily because our soils are in such good order,” says Mr Pitts.
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Improving nutrient use efficiency is a key part of the work across the network of Helix farms and recent trials at the national site show just how significant the benefits can be. Last year, Mr Pitts worked with Yara to conduct a grain protein prediction test using representative tissue samples collected from the flag leaf of Skyfall first wheat after oilseed rape. The test provides an indication of the grain protein that can be achieved based on nitrogen in the leaf and results were 16 |
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“It’s a classic example of something we’ve tried here that’s delivered a tangible benefit to the bottom line. Ultimately that’s what it’s all about.”
However, he acknowledges direct drilling is not without its difficulties and requires a concerted focus on soil management to make it work and a www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
| On Topic willingness to adapt or change where necessary. Indeed, this year sees a return of some shallow cultivation between first wheats and following autumn-sown crops, he says. “We’ve found that the huge amount of straw and chaff on the ground after first wheats takes time to decay and uses up a
address imbalances in the carbon:nitrogen ratio and build soil biology to improve the breakdown of crop residues. This includes one field of Sakura marrowfat peas sown with the farm’s John Deere 750A in mid-April into ground that had an overwinter cover crop of stubble turnips and tillage radish that was strip grazed with sheep. Both the cover crop and the peas return nitrogen to the soil to rebalance the C:N ratio, plus they help build soil biology, explains Hutchinsons technical manager Dick Neale. “We also identified tight soil structure on the turning headlands, which peas really don’t like, so used a specific MaxiRooter mix on these areas, as it includes a lot of deepworking radish and mustard to open the structure up. “Whenever you use a cover crop, you have to be clear what you want it to achieve and be prepared to adjust what you’re doing, even within individual fields,” he adds. Mr Pitts says that for a relatively small investment, cover crops can return big benefits to soil health and following crops. “For example, we usually apply 150-180 kg N/ha to our spring barley, but this year we only used 100 kg N/ha on fields after cover crops, which more than made up for the cost of seed and drilling the cover, plus we got some income from grazing sheep on it. Soil Mineral Nitrogen tests in March showed 80-90 kg/ha of N available to the crop, triple the value of areas left as overwintered stubble.” The importance of having a healthy population of microorganisms and earthworms to effectively decompose and cycle residues should not be underestimated, Mr Neale adds, so practical ways of assessing this on-farm are much needed. As part of Helix, he is therefore involved with a three-year Innovate UK-funded project that aims to develop a system using soil scanners mounted on a robot fitted with soil augers to autonomously sample fields and build a picture of soil biology based on genetic ”fingerprints” of different microbes.
lot of soil nitrogen as it does so, which affects the establishment of following crops sown into those residues. “We’ve therefore gone back to including a very shallow cultivation between wheat and the next autumn crop just to mix the chaff and soil slightly to improve decomposition and crop establishment.”
“Farming is evolving enormously, and we all have to adapt,” Mr Pitts concludes. “For us, it’s about joining simple things together to make the whole system more profitable. Ultimately, any change or investment you make has to return a worthwhile benefit otherwise what’s the point in doing it?” The Helix National site in Northamptonshire is one of five Helix demonstration farms across the UK developing and trialling the latest innovations and technologies at a farm scale. Go to www.helixfarm.co.uk to discover more.
Cover crop benefit Cover crops and rotational changes are also being used to www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
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Farmer-led trial results could help UK farming transition away from imported soya before further spikes in price F indings into alternative home-grown protein sources could help the UK pig and poultry sectors transition away from unsustainable soya imports, at a time when global supplies are looking increasingly vulnerable.
Sprouting wheat and vetch seeds, grain tailings, and processed beans, were all found to offer good alternative nutrients for monogastrics and could be grown within UK farming systems. The majority of soya imported into the UK is used to manufacture food and feed livestock, but 40% of imports in 2019 were from sources with a potential risk of deforestation, according to the UK Roundtable on Sustainable Soya. As well as saving forests, breaking the UK’s reliance on imported soya is increasingly urgent due to current supply chain disruptions coming from China and India, which have sent soya prices rocketing more than 80% in the 12 months to June. The conclusions of a three-year collaboration between farmers and researchers now offers a path towards a system based on regional feed production and sourcing. The farmers have been working with the Organic Research Centre in a field lab which was run through Innovative Farmers, a programme which supports practical onfarm trials. “Soya is hard to beat nutritionally, and although it can be grown in the UK in certain areas, it’s unlikely to be in the volumes needed,” said Jerry Alford, Innovative Farmers field lab coordinator, and arable and soils advisor at the Soil Association. “So, it’s about looking at what resources we have available, what we can grow, and how we can adapt these to produce our own alternative feeds, rather than importing them. We desperately need a more sustainable, stable, and secure feed source, and the way to do that is to grow more in the UK. “For organic farmers in particular, the trial results offer a way to achieve 100% organic feed without the carbon footprint associated with imported products, something that many producers have always felt goes against organic principles.” The field lab was part of an EU H2020 funded research project, OK-Net 18 |
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EcoFeed. Farmers and researchers across 11 European countries spent three years investigating alternative home-grown protein sources for monogastrics.
chicken feed local: vetch sprouts; switching to a laying hen breed that needs less intensive feeding; and growing his own meal worms for added protein.
Farm based trial results
Adding value
The field lab looked at three possible protein sources: sprouting seeds; increasing the nutritional value of beans through heat treatment and dehulling; and saving grain tailings. All were found to have some value as home-grown feed sources.
Enabling organic farmers to source 100% organic, UK-grown feed, could also offer marketing opportunities, believes Sam Wade, an organic pig producer in Gloucestershire, who has been running his own feed trials.
“The trials have all been successful in their own way,” said Dr Lindsay Whistance, senior livestock researcher at the Organic Research Centre. “They’ve all highlighted existing potential in feed stuffs that can be adapted, helping to find solutions for reducing the need to import feed for pigs and poultry.” Mike Mallett, who organically farms 3,000 laying hens in Suffolk, ran the sprouting seeds trial as part of the field lab and says British hens need to be fed with UK-sourced feed. “I’ve been trying to take soya out of my chicken feed for nine years and have grown all sorts of crops including sunflowers and lupins,” says Mr Mallet. “But our farm has either been too cold, or perhaps too alkaline. Vetch however, is something our farm can grow well.” Vetch also had the advantage of being useful in his farming system, says Mr Mallet, since it fixes more nitrogen than peas and beans, and is an excellent inter-cropper, particularly with oats, with notable improvements to soil structure.
“As an organic producer we already receive a premium for our pigs, but if we can produce them free of imported soya and using UK-grown rations, then we can add further value,” says Mr Wade. “We’ve had more interest recently from buyers asking about our pig’s diet, and we want to find a low input system, for our own peace of mind too, that fits better with the organic ethos.” Mr Wade has been growing clover leys to improve soil fertility and has been feeding his pigs round bale silage for some years now. He’s also using Saddlebacks to create a hardier breed better adapted to using a forage-based diet produced on the farm. “This is not only economically efficient in reducing concentrate feed, but also provides the pigs with gut-fill resulting in more contentment among the animals.” “A forage-based diet will inevitably mean pigs take longer to reach slaughter weight, but this is compensated for by the lower costs of producing on-farm rations.” What is Innovative Farmers?
Vetch seeds however, contain toxins for monogastrics and tripsonin inhibitors, which affect egg laying frequency and size. But Mr Mallett found that by germinating the seeds he could reduce these while preserving other micro nutrients and proteins. “It also means I have a green forage to feed the hens when they’re indoors during the winter when there is less outdoor forage,” says Mr Mallett. He is now developing a sprouter that can produce hundreds of kilos of germinated seeds a week, and Mr Mallett believes the technology is scalable to other farms. Moving forwards, he’ll be implementing a three-pronged approach to keep his
Innovative Farmers is a not for profit network giving farmers research support and funding on their own terms. Through the network, groups of farmers can work directly with a researcher to design practical on-farm trials, called field labs. The programme is managed by the Soil Association. What is OK-Net EcoFeed? OK-Net EcoFeed is an EU Horizon 2020 research and innovation project which aims at helping organic pig and poultry farmers in achieving the goal of 100% use of organic and regional feed. It is coordinated by IFOAM EU and consists of 11 partners and 8 linked third parties from 11 countries.
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| Arable
Contact your nearest dealer: Agratech NW Ltd Unit 8 Dale Mill Burnley Road East Lancashire BB4 9HU 01706 211399 www.agratech.co.uk
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RECENT STORMS SHOWCASE VALUE OF POD SHATTER RESISTANCE
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ecent very heavy rain and hailstone storms have wrecked havoc with many oilseed rape crops resulting in unnecessary yield losses just before harvest.
Across certain areas of the country many oilseed rape crops have been devastated by the storms whilst others have been left relatively unscathed, showing very clearly the value of pod shatter resistance. Pod shatter is a natural process for seed dispersion in oil seed rape, however on farm can result in significant seed loss caused by heavy wind rain, hailstones, or the combine passing through the crop. The pod shatter (POSH) resistance gene was originally introduced into OSR together with the restorer gene from radish. But, not all hybrids carry POSH resistance as the trait was lost in the breeding process to improve the restorer. “Those varieties that do carry a high degree of pod shatter resistance, can make a real difference to seed losses both before and at harvest, which is what we have seen in the last couple of days,” says Limagrain’s arable development manager Liam Wilkinson. However Mr Wilkinson believes that the value of pod shatter resistance is a trait that is often under estimated and not really fully understood. “Pod shatter can be quantified as the force required to break a ripe pod – it’s not an either or trait.” 20 |
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“We precisely quantify pod shatter resistance using lab-based techniques, where the force required to shatter the pod is measured, and this clearly shows that not all POSH resistant varieties offer the same level of resistance,” he says. “All of our hybrids contain the trait and we constantly monitor the efficacy of our pod shatter resistance against other commercial varieties so we can be confident in our claims that the variety really is pod shatter resistant, and this plays out in their high yields of and leading position on the current AHDB Recommended List.”
“POSH resistance can also help to provide some flexibility in the timing of the harvest, which can be as much as 14 days extra in our tests,” he says. “In addition, a robust POSH resistance cuts down the number of volunteers in the following crop, easing the burden of weed control.” “It doesn’t make sense not to take advantage of the trait, why risk any seed losses if you don’t have to? It’s not as though you pay any more for variety with good resistance over one that does not,” he says.
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Key pointers to cover crop success oils have taken a battering over the past two seasons and remedial action will be required in many situations. Cover crops can play a key part in repairing the damage, but must be managed appropriately to achieve the desired outcome.
full width of the cut.
This is particularly true on heavy land, where the two biggest challenges are optimum establishment of the cover crop and its effective destruction.
Cultivation strategy The next step is to assess soil structure and the need for remedial cultivations. If yields in the preceding cash crop were good and pretty even across the field, and steps were taken to minimise traffic and soil damage during harvesting, there is unlikely to be a problem.
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older equipment that suits larger seeds will benefit from the addition of a small seeds application kit,” says Mr Atkinson.
“There will be little time for crop residue to break down before the cover crop is drilled and no stale seedbed cultivations to aid the process,” says Mr Atkinson.
Suspect areas warrant closer inspection with a spade. “Recent weather means many soil types could still be wet at depth which, if loosened too deeply, could cause more harm than good, but still incur all the cost.
Niall Atkinson, Agrovista Niall Atkinson, Agrovista’s farming systems research and development adviser, says: “By following a few guidelines, growers will greatly increase the chances of growing an effective cover, regardless of soil type, weather, or species.” Timely establishment Good timing is critical. Even a few days’ delay in sowing can adversely affect a cover crop’s performance. “Plants need to harvest as much sunlight as possible, as quickly as possible,” says Mr Atkinson. “A short-term cover crop planted ahead of an autumn-sown cereal may only be in the ground for two months, and time is also of the essence for an over-wintered cover as growth slows during the late autumn and winter.”
“Work at Agrovista’s flagship heavy land research site, Lamport AgX, has consistently shown that shallow lowdisturbance loosening at 100-125mm together with plant roots has been far more beneficial than deep loosening alone, as well as being more cost effective.” Sowing Cover crops can be established in several ways, including direct drilling. Where required, a very shallow cultivation, either as a separate operation or during drilling if appropriate, should be sufficient to mix in the straw and mineralise some nitrogen to help kick-start crop growth. Cover crop mixtures often consist of seeds of varying sizes that require differing sowing depths. “Modern drills can often deal with this, while
“After drilling, the seed-bed can be rolled as necessary – soil moisture conservation is important throughout this process.” Agrovista is also investigating broadcasting cover crop seed into the preceding crop several weeks before harvest. Work is continuing to pinpoint appropriate timings and species. Effective destruction Destruction timing is closely linked to several factors, including land type, cover crop bulk and, most importantly, the carbon:nitrogen ratio. “Where covers with higher C:N ratio such as cereals and brassicas are grown, especially on heavy land, it is vital to apply glyphosate early, December or January if possible, so plant material has time to break down to release nutrients and benefit soil biology,” says Mr Atkinson. Early destruction also allows the soil surface to dry, improving drill performance and reducing slotting, whilst minimising the green bridge risk. Work at Lamport AgX has shown a distinct yield advantage in spring wheat when the preceding black-oat based cover crop was sprayed off in late December/early January, compared with two weeks pre-drilling (see table). In practice, a second application may be needed in bulky cover crops to ensure a complete kill before drilling. “Most drills, with some adjustment, will comb through reasonable amounts of cover crop residue provided it remains anchored to the roots,” says Mr Atkinson. “It is best to avoid surface cultivations before drilling. “Where covers consist of lower C:N ratios, such as vetch, early destruction is less important, especially on lighter land. “Growers who own specialist drills that work in a standing cover crop can spray just before or just after sowing the following crop.”
While timely drilling is key, ideally soon after the combine has left the field, this must not be at the expense of seedbed quality, he adds. Straw management The first step to good establishment should be taken before the preceding crop is harvested. The combine’s straw chopper should be set to produce a fine chop that spreads across the www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
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Test soil to reach new standard armers are being urged to test soil and establish a baseline that will help improve soil health ahead of a new 2022 standard. The Arable Soil Standard was issued in June 2021 as part of the government’s Environmental Land Management (ELM) and Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) plans. To best prepare for the new standard, farmers should test soil more regularly to identify organic matter content before adding inputs or adjusting their rotation, suggests Eurofins Agro managing director, Daniel Robinson. “The new standards will be more easily achieved if farmers accurately analyse their soil before making changes to the rotation or farming methods. Understanding the soil status at the start of the process, the baselines, helps to provide the data needed to take the correct actions. Our tests provide chemical, physical, and biological insight, offering farmers a better way to monitor, manage and improve the health and fertility of their soil ahead of these new land management targets,” he says. Eurofins offers three new products: Fertilisation Manager®, Soil Crop Monitor® and Soil Life Monitor®. Fertilisation Manager measures soil fertility. “This includes the chemical values of macro and micronutrients,” says Mr Robinson. “Detailed organic matter and carbon fractions, as well as the overall structure of the soil is also analysed in conjunction with biological components such as fungi and bacteria,” he adds. The microbial biomass from the sample will help farmers to understand the sensitivity of the soil to conventional farming methods such as ploughing. The number and nature of the bacteria present in a soil sample will also facilitate the accurate calculation of what nutrients need to be added to the soil to optimise plant health and growth. “This will help make difficult decisions in autumn, such as choosing cultivation methods, or deciding whether to plant cover crops,” suggests Mr Robinson. Soil Crop Monitor offers the most accurate means of testing soil during a growing season. “Unlike some tests, Soil Crop Monitor analyses both the soil and the plant. This measures the plant available nutrients and the nutrients absorbed by the crop,” he says. Soil Life Monitor determines the total microbial biomass, fungi, bacteria, and protozoa. It also identifies some physical characteristics such as pH and the quality of organic matter. “PLFA (phospholipid fatty acids) found in soil can be measured to provide a fingerprint of the soil content. PLFAs are degraded quickly in the soil, so the analysis gives an indication of the amount of living biomass,” says Mr Robinson.
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Norfolk trials help growers prepare for future challenges arm businesses face big challenges over the next few years as they must adapt to the most significant subsidy reforms for decades whilst contending with unpredictable weather, volatile markets and a growing environmental agenda.
sequestration or carbon trading, as there are various ways reducing the carbon footprint can benefit farm businesses, such as with less intense cultivations or improving fertiliser efficiency (see below)."
Practical solutions to some of these challenges were the focus of a recent Farmacy demonstration day at the Harleston Regional Technology Centre in Norfolk, kindly hosted by the Lewis partners.
Effective rotation planning and variety choice were highlighted as important ways of managing many of the risks facing growers, and with this autumn's drilling plans being made, the varieties trial provided an ideal opportunity to see how new and established wheats had performed in another tricky season.
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The site showcased a range of trials, including 29 winter wheat varieties, alongside seed rate and fungicide research. Growers attending the event also heard how new technology, such as Terramap and Omnia, could help pinpoint future opportunities and develop existing practices to improve financial and environmental sustainability. Political ambitions to reduce carbon were a key area likely to create future opportunities, particularly within the new Sustainable Farming Incentive, services leader Matt Ward said. It was therefore important growers started assessing existing assets to ensure they were well placed to take advantage of new schemes. Mapping soils with Terramap provided a good way of establishing a baseline level of soil carbon (active and organic), against which the impact of future management practices could be measured. "When thinking about carbon opportunities we also need to think beyond carbon 24 |
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Varieties to manage risk
Plots and the surrounding 17 ha field of KWS Extase were sown early on 19 September in an attempt to avoid a repeat of the previous autumn when heavy rain prevented much wheat drilling. Like many parts of the country, wheat therefore came under significant Septoria pressure during June and July,
the farm's agronomist Tom Rouse explained. "We have seen some big differences between varieties in treated and untreated plots, which reinforces the benefits of having a diverse rotation and growing a range of varieties to help spread risk." Farmacy's Dan Robinson urged growers to look beyond yield when assessing varieties and give more consideration to traits such as disease susceptibility, lodging resistance, maturity and suitability for early or late drilling, to spread risk with a balanced portfolio.
Dan Robinson
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| Arable For example, he said the Group 4s LG Skyscraper and RGT Saki made a good pairing as they were both strong performers in terms of yield and grain quality, with Skyscraper's vigour suited to later drilling, whereas Saki's growth habit and solid disease profile better suited earlier slots. For growers wanting early maturity to spread harvest workloads and provide a timely entry for following crops, hard Group 4 Graham was well suited to early drilling first wheat situations, he added. KWS Kerrin was another that had performed well as a first or second wheat, with good scores for mildew and brown rust, although yellow rust was a weakness that had to be managed well. He acknowledged yellow rust control was being complicated by the emergence of new races, which made LG Astronomer of interest as it was based on a three-way cross (between Britannia, Leeds and Cougar), which had potential to hold up better against evolving pathogens than other two-way crosses. The variety blend trial was another way of trying to use genetics to mitigate disease risk. It featured a blend of four varieties, KWS Extase, KWS Siskin, Graham and RGT Saki, in equal proportions to see if disease incidence could be reduced and yield improved. All plots will be taken to harvest and full results available at a grower meeting later this winter.
earlier in the spring, however this meant those crops had little protection when rain came later and spray intervals were extended due to bad weather, he explained. "You've always got to do something at the main timings as you never know how conditions can change. The T2 spray is where many manufacturers focus their products, but we often see good responses to better treatments earlier in the programme, so it is worth investing." Varieties with strong disease ratings (e.g. KWS Extase) may not give the same yield response to fungicides as those with weaker ratings, but Mr Robinson said there was still a worthwhile return in most seasons, so doing nothing was not an option, and could put genetic resistance under greater pressure to breakdown. Indeed, varietal resistance should be regarded as just one of many instruments that growers should use within integrated crop management plans, Farmacy agronomist Andrew Spackman said. ICM required careful consideration of the many threats and limiting factors for individual fields, such as disease, soil type or the weather, to identify the most appropriate management measures, including crop species, drilling date, variety choice, or seed rate.
Timing is everything In the fungicide trial, a 7-10 day delay in treating plots (compared with the main field application) had made a huge difference to Septoria and rust incidence at the Harleston site, where the interval between T1 and T2 reached almost five weeks due to the weather, Mr Robinson said. "Accurate timing is absolutely critical to get the best out of fungicides, but particularly so with the demise of chlorothalonil." Wet weather in May and June had ramped up Septoria pressure in many wheat crops, and clearly highlighted the importance of maintaining a strong spray programme and tight intervals throughout. Disease pressure was greatest where growers had eased back on early sprays due to cold, dry weather and lack of disease
"ICM is something many growers have been doing for years without necessarily thinking about it. But as an industry we are now all under much more pressure to demonstrate and record what we're doing and why we're doing it." Pre-harvest was an ideal time to review what had and had not worked during the season and start planning next year's strategy across the whole rotation. "A lot comes down to how we can balance the rewards of yield and quality with the need to manage risks, whether that's disease, establishment or pests." With so many interlinked factors to consider within ICM, he said digital platforms such as Omnia, with its disease, lodging and BYDV risk assessment tools, rotation planner and other data analysis functions were extremely useful for helping growers and agronomists work together to prepare effective cropping strategies for individual fields and across the whole rotation. Mr Spackman highlighted four key pillars of ICM to consider: Andrew Spackman
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rotation, use variety resistance, blends, undersowing, intercropping, beneficial insects Risk assessment: use forecasting/ warning systems, thresholds, decision support tools, imagery, data interpretation Cultural methods: optimise cultivation strategy, support/ enhance natural enemies, use biological options, and systems approaches Crop protection: optimise product choice, employ antiresistance strategies, accurate timing, evaluate treatment efficacy and return on investment.
Improving efficiency Hutchinsons's Rob Jewers highlighted the importance of improving fertiliser efficiency as a way of addressing economic and environmental pressures. Nitrogen for example, accounted for around 30% of total variable costs in winter wheat and made up 83% of the crop's carbon footprint, yet just 50-60% of applied granular ammonium nitrate typically made it into crops. The situation was even more significant for phosphate, where crop uptake for granular fertiliser was typically just 10% of the total applied, given its propensity to getting locked up in the soil. "Improving fertiliser efficiency is therefore important for managing costs, but can also make a big difference to our carbon footprint." Tips for maximising Nitrogen Use Efficiency (NUE): •
Get fertiliser spreaders tested before the start of every year to ensure accurate calibration
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Select fertiliser products carefully according to crop and conditions (e.g. volatilisation losses from urea are greater in dry conditions, while granular fertilisers also need moisture to be taken up, so foliar applications may be more effective in some situations)
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Measure soil nitrogen with deep core testing in winter/early spring to check N carryover
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Use in-season testing (e.g. Yara N-Tester, or Omnia satellite imagery) to assess biomass and crop requirements
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Calculate NUE from final crop yields and application records
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Ensure all other nutrients are in balance, particularly phosphate and sulphur
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Check soil pH and lime if necessary.
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The future of farming - 100% biological solutions to lower nitrogen use and increase crop yields t is estimated that as little as 30% of all applied fertigation is ever taken up by the crops it is applied too, the excess acts to reduce the biodiversity of essential microbes in the soils, compounded with soil organic matter reducing at an alarming rate, is there a viable solution for those interested in sympathetic soil management?
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PlantWorks, one of Europe's largest producers of pure culture mycorrhizal fungi has developed products under its Smart Rotations brand that are 100% biological, proven to reduce nitrogen use whilst increasing crop yields and profits. The company undertook a major seven-year research drive in collaboration with key agronomy companies and its own monitor farms, to understand the connection between improving soil biology and reducing applied nitrogen in wheat production using Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR). The results show how increasing soil biology increases plants efficiency at using applied fertigation and allows for significant reduction in nitrogen.
correct consortia of bacteria for different crops. The OF&G certified SR3 range includes seven varieties, each uniquely balanced to the crop they are intended for. In addition to increasing overall yield, spraying crops with SR3 helps to increase nitrogen and potassium availability and uptake, improves plant resistance to pathogens, enhances drought tolerance and water efficiency and builds microbial communities which are crucial to the agroecosystem. The formulas, which should be sprayed directly to ground post emergence, are supplied in pure monoculture in liquid, optimising the function of bacteria and making them easy to add to sprayer tanks. PlantWorks' Robert Patten said: "Our research clearly shows that appropriate interventions with tuned bio fertilisers can significantly increase plant efficiency and health and improve crop yield whilst reducing the use of artificial fertigation. We believe this is just the start of an exciting chapter in modern farming."
Additional trials included winter and spring wheat, barley, oats, sugar beet, carrot, onion and red onion demonstrated an average yield increase of 7% compared to control crops and a significantly high increase of 15.2% in onions and 24% in carrots.
PlantWorks Ltd is the UK's only mass producer of mycorrhizal fungi and produces a range of products for agriculture, developed by a qualified group of mycologists and bacteriologists through collaboration throughout the country's academic base.
Using the key findings from the trials PlantWorks' team of scientists has developed a series of products that feature the
To find out more visit smart.plantworksuk.co.uk
Trailblazing regenerative agriculture programme launched in Gloucestershire
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loucestershire farmers, growers and rural food start-ups can now benefit from £398k of funding to boost regenerative agriculture.
The GREAT Project, which stands for Gloucestershire Regenerative Environment and Agriculture Transition, has launched its offer of free and subsidised advice, knowledge exchange, mentoring and enterprise support. It also features an education bursary and a small grants scheme for those seeking small amounts of cash for farm-based enterprises, such as start-up costs or crucial pieces of equipment. The scheme, which is funded for three years by the Thirty Percy Foundation, aims to make Gloucestershire a leading county in regenerative agriculture, which is a growing farming movement that emphasises building soil carbon and structure. Although the project’s offerings are free or subsidised only to those farming in Gloucestershire, many of their events are available at full cost to anybody. In addition to its knowledge exchange events, led by Oxon-based trailblazers, 26 |
Farming Monthly | August 2021
FarmED, the project is offering a series of ‘enterprise bootcamps’ and webinars, led by the School of Enterprise at the Royal Agricultural University (RAU), for rural food startups. The first bootcamp is set to begin on 10th September 2021, with 25 spaces free of charge to those in Gloucestershire.
RAU’s David Bozward commented, “With farming changing so rapidly, there is an opportunity to develop products and routes to market that capitalise on the post-Brexit drive for ecosystems services in farming. We’re fortunate to be able to support that transition by helping people to develop their ideas for financially sustainable rural businesses.” From the autumn, new entrants to farming will be able to sign up for mentoring and advice on accessing land. Those already farming in Gloucestershire can already access free advice from the Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group (FWAG SouthWest) or join a mentoring programme so that those beginning the transition to regenerative agriculture can benefit from the support of their peers.
Jenny Phelps MBE, Senior Farm Environment Advisor at FWAG SouthWest, emphasised the importance of peer-to-peer sharing of evidence for the regenerative agriculture model, saying “Farmers want to act on climate change and make their businesses more resilient. Many are sharing their considerable experience with us so we can make it available on our website as case studies and videos for inspiration and learning.” Data gathered by farmers can also be used to prepare to receive collective investment for nature recovery, which is increasingly on offer from government and green finance initiatives. Phelps went on to explain that “A network of mentors, advisors and local convenors can then facilitate farmers to join forces in groups to build local supply chains that deliver clean water, more wildlife, and healthier food to their local communities.” Project Manager, Bea Oliver, invites Gloucestershire farmers, landowners, growers, and rural food start-ups to get in touch to find out where The GREAT Project can help you in your regenerative journey. Visit www.greatglos.co.uk to find out more and get in touch. www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
| Arable
Event showcases environmental options to ‘bridge the BPS gap’ he switch from direct support to environmentally-focussed payments presents massive challenges over coming years, but leading agronomy firm Hutchinsons is helping growers plan the best way forward to benefit from the opportunities available.
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As part of its Helix initiative, the firm has established a new trials site near Warboys in Cambridgeshire dedicated to testing out some of the many environmental stewardship options that will be central to future support within the Environmental Land Management Scheme (ELMS).
The site, which is predominantly on heavier clay-based soil, includes spring-drilled plots of 16 different species sown as straights, allowing growers to see the characteristics and growth habits of exotic species like sorghum, reed millet, camelina and quinoa, alongside more familiar names such as kale, stubble turnip and sunflower. “Many species will be new to a lot of farmers, so it’s interesting to see their characterises and how they grow in UK conditions. We’ve been fortunate with the rain in May coming straight
mixtures,” adds Mr England. “If you can keep these mixes weedfree, it is much better for biodiversity as it allows the flowering and seedproducing species to thrive, rather than having them outcompeted by weeds. “Ultimately, if you’re going to be putting a percentage of your farm down to these kind of mixes now and in the future, then you’ve got to select the most appropriate options for your situation and manage them well to get the most out of them.” The impact of stewardship mixes on
It will open its doors to the site in September (see box below), giving growers chance to see firsthand the many traditional and exotic species that make up different stewardship mixes, learn how to establish them successfully and discuss the benefits they deliver to biodiversity and soil health. The event provides the perfect platform for planning the next steps within the new policy framework and help bridge the gap that may develop in farm finances once the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) is gone. “All farmers should be considering what they can do in terms of stewardship options now, don’t just wait until ELMS is launched in 2024,” says services leader Matt Ward. “Currently there’s a great opportunity to get two bites of the cherry by trying different stewardship options at the same time as still being able to claim some BPS. “It is a very different world we’re looking at though, which will require growers to be more flexible about how and where they grow crops and think carefully about where stewardship options best fit into their own business.” Explore the options Understanding what is available and seeing how various options perform in a normal farm situation allows more informed decisions to be made, says Hutchinsons environmental services specialist Matt England, who’s 180 ha (450-acre) family farm is hosting and managing the trials. www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
Matt England after drilling, which really helped plots establish, so they should look fantastic by September.” A range of seed mixes has also been established, including the two-year legume option (with and without grass) and other flower/nectar-rich mixes, that are already attracting considerable interest among farmers in existing stewardship schemes, the ELMS pilot, and the regenerative agriculture movement. “Weed control is one of the biggest challenges many growers face when establishing stewardship mixes, which is why we’ve included a herbicide trial of pre-ems, post-ems and a combination of both to see what works across the different species and seed
soil health is another area being investigated at the Warboys site, which has been assessed before drilling to provide a baseline from which any changes can be measured. “Many stewardship and cover crop mixes can have a beneficial impact on soil health, organic matter and biodiversity, so we hope to be able to show that change over time.” The Helix environmental stewardship open day takes place on Thursday 16 September, near Warboys in Cambridgeshire. Advance booking is essential, so please call Matt England on 07866 197521 or visit the events section at www.hlhltd.co.uk for more details and to secure your place. August 2021 | Farming Monthly | 27
| Potatoes
Sustainable Sprout Control
iox-M is a wellestablished and highly effective treatment to control sprouting in potatoes in store and is in widespread use in the UK and on the continent on crops destined for both fresh and processing markets.
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Although approved for use in the UK in 2012, the 2020 harvest season is the first to have seen widespread adoption of Biox-M as the principal product available for sprout control in this country. And, understandably, much of the immediate focus for new users has been on store management, efficacy and cost. Growers, storekeepers and end-user customers were on a steep learning curve to ensure that they got the best from an unfamiliar product, which requires a very different approach to store management. And many lessons have been learned; the industry will go into the new season much better prepared and with much greater familiarity than a year ago. This significant change to sprout control is not taking place in a vacuum. British farm support is being turned on its head, with a shift to reward farmers for the delivery of public goods, many of which have a sustainability angle. And the world is moving, perhaps rather slowly, to address the challenges of climate change and 28 |
Farming Monthly | August 2021
to understand the role that farming has to play in climate change mitigation. Biox-M is very much part of the wider sustainability toolbox, which customers and consumers expect growers to consider.
a uniform product with a minimum level of carvone, the oil is blended to produce Biox-M. No synthetic, persistent or harmful chemistry is involved.
Biox-M comes from a naturally occurring perennial crop, spearmint (mentha spicata), grown in a number of countries around the world – India, China and the US are large exporters. Carbon is sequestered in the crop and in the soil (perennial crops sequester carbon in soil much more effectively than annual crops). Spearmint oil is extracted by a simple process of steam distillation, used to extract many essential oils. To deliver www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
BIOX-M
| Potatoes
Exceptional sprout suppression in fresh and processing crops
Contact:
www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
Peter Hall peter@junopp.com 01622 821276 Nick Tapp nick@junopp.com 077 75785748 www.junopp.com August 2021 | Farming Monthly | 29
| Potatoes
New mobile washing system creates efficiencies for major UK potato supplier
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new mobile washing facility, featuring Tong’s next generation barrel washer, is bringing increased throughput and a highly flexible washing solution for UK potato supplier Wolds Produce this season.
Based in East Yorkshire, Wolds Produce Ltd supply high quality potatoes into the crisping, chipping, ware, catering and seed industries, working with a wide base of growers throughout the UK. In order to wash crop across multiple sites, Wolds Produce needed a mobile washing system that would 30 |
Farming Monthly | August 2021
bring effective destoning, washing and inspection of crop at high capacities, for quick yet gentle processing to meet contract demands. Featuring the latest model of Tong’s popular potato barrel washer, the new mobile washing system is built to handle high throughputs of crop, with a 4m long, 1200m wide barrel washer and integrated destoner for reliable removal of stones from crop prior to washing. Once crop is washed, it is gently transferred to an inspection conveyor with canopy. For ultimate ease of transporting between sites, the mobile system has been designed with foldable modules to allow the machine to www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
| Potatoes
be quickly and easily adapted for transport. Simon Tootell, Managing Director at Wolds Produce “We have worked with Tong for many years. They supplied our existing washing line at our main site in Pocklington East Yorkshire, so when then time came to look for a mobile system, Tong was the natural choice to work with to design a custom-built machine that we knew would fit the bill.” “We are very pleased with how the new mobile washer is performing,” says Simon. “The machine can run with minimal labour requirements and is making it possible www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
for us to respond quickly to new contract requirements as we can now wash to high standards on location across our wide grower base.” Edward Tong, Managing Director at Tong Engineering added “Our commitment to building relationships with customers like Wolds Produce means that we develop a great understanding of their ongoing handling needs, and can work alongside them to build new solutions as their requirements expand.”
August 2021 | Farming Monthly | 31
Our experience harvests results
CROP MOISTURE MANAGEMENT
CROP DRYING REAL TIME CONTROL AT YOUR FINGERTIPS New grain moisture management systems from Kentra help growers manage crop drying operations, we explore the technical world of Kentra crop drying and discover the capabilities and possibilities of Kentra’s unique products. Kentra, the Yorkshire-based manufacturer of mixed flow crop dryers, has introduced two new moisture measurement and recording systems for growers, and an automated moisture monitoring system ideal for use at the grain intake, adding to its existing range of crop moisture management systems. The high-accuracy products come from Canadian manufacturer Dryer Master, whose long established DM510 control system fully automates the grain drying process with minimal manual intervention.
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“The new DM100 is a lower cost, less sophisticated version that still provides an element of control to relieve the workload of whoever is managing the dryer” Grain moisture is measured at the discharge point and adjustments to the discharge rate are made automatically when operator-set high, low and target moisture levels for each of three discharge speeds are hit.
Unlike the fully automatic DM510, the DM100 requires the speed set points and moisture targets to be adjusted periodically to maintain optimum performance. The new Moisture Monitor Pro records grain moisture and temperature at the discharge – with the option to add an intake sensor as well – to help operators achieve consistent results from fully manual control. As with the DM510 fully-automatic and DM100 semi-automatic systems, values are shown on a colour display, are accessible
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remotely using a mobile phone and can be downloaded to farm computer records. These features are also common to Load Monitor, a system that records the average moisture of entire lorry or trailer loads of grain at the intake. “The sensor is fitted in the grain flow line – for example in a duct where grain passes from the intake pit to an elevator – and Load Monitor automatically starts logging as soon as the sensor detects grain flowing across it” “The finished record includes a consignment identifier and time stamp, and compared with sampling, using Load Monitor means there is no delay to tipping incoming consignments and the moisture reading will be fully representative of the bulk.”
Kentra Grain Systems was formed in 1989 to design and manufacture grain dryers that meet the challenging requirements of British farmers.
and designed, developed and manufactured in-house. The modular construction of the dryer allows for maximum flexibility in model selection.
Today, the range of mixed flow dryers produced from heavy-duty galvanised steel features a unique column design for effective drying of all free-flowing combinable crops and control systems, axial flow fans
So if you need a throughput of 10 tonnes or in excess of 100 tonnes per hour our range of dryers and user-friendly management software give you complete, real time control over your harvest.
3 yr
WARRANTY Throughputs up to
120 tonnes / hr
Grain drying demands real time control and automated decision making at your fingertips. Kentra brings you both and more.
Low power requirement
Our ever changing climate ensures it has never been more challenging to produce a consistent quality harvest.
• CONTINUOUS AND EVEN GRAIN DISCHARGE
Kentra has been at the forefront of continuous flow grain drying technology for well over 30 years.
• REMOTE INTERNET MONITORING AND CONTROL
Our range of dryers and user-friendly management software give you complete, real time control over your harvest.
• TOUCH SCREEN CONTROL FOR EASE OF USE
For further information please telephone: www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
01423 326665
PROUDLY MADE IN THE UK
Sales@kentra.co.uk www.kentra.co.uk
August 2021 | Farming Monthly | 33
| Grain
Grain Handling, Drying & Storage Solutions from Perry of Oakley Ltd. P
erry, a 3rd generation family business established in 1947, provide high quality machinery to a wide variety of industries, including farms, commercial grain stores, waste & aggregate industries, feed & pet food, pharmaceutical & biomass industries, and many others. Perry have supplied machines to over 25 different countries across 4 continents.
The Perry range includes the entry level “Mistral” and the top specification “Savannah” series continuous mixed flow grain driers to fit requirements and budgets from commercial grain stores to farms. Savannah Series driers have Perry’s own advanced touch screen PLC panel, which can be linked to any smart phone for full control of the drier from any location. This technology is designed and programmed in house allowing UK engineers remote access for diagnostics and adjustments. The auto control uses both the exhaust air 34 |
Farming Monthly | August 2021
temperature and hot grain temperature to give advanced control of the drier, to maintain a consistent moisture content of the discharged grain. The Mistral series drier is controlled via a hardwired control panel, though this is easily upgradable to the Perry PLC touch screen control panel. To promote even movement of grain down the grain column, even in very wet conditions, all Savannah Series Driers are fitted with pneumatically controlled shutter discharge. This ensures precise and even movement across the whole bed. The Mistral range of driers are fitted with Perry’s proven roller discharge as standard (shutter discharge is optional).
The Perry sales and technical support team have over 450 years of industry knowledge. That combined with their 70 years experience in manufacturing of handling, drying & storage equipment, make Perry of Oakley Ltd. the supplier of choice whether you require a single conveyor or a complete new plant. Perry have won several awards for being one of the top companies in the country and also from SHAPA which demonstrates top level performance in the sector. In a period where parts and machinery entering the UK from Europe are less certain and more costly this is the best time to choose the UK’s most experienced manufacturer for your handling, drying & storage equipment.
Perry also provide fire detection systems that can be retro-fitted to any make of drier, giving you vital early warning of fire helping you reduce the damage to the drier and surrounding plant. The system can be stand alone or integrated into your control panel.
Contact Perry today for all your handling, storage & drier requirements on +44 (0)1404 890 300 or email sales@perryofoakley.co.uk, and receive a free, no obligation quotation.
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www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
August 2021 | Farming Monthly | 35
| Grain
BDC Systems Ltd and partner Edwards Engineering deliver hi-tech grain drying and processing plant to increase productivity and efficiency for Balgonie Estates Ltd DC Systems Ltd, working closely with its longstanding partner Edwards Engineering, has successfully delivered a new grain drying and processing plant for Balgonie Estates Ltd at Southparks Farm, Glenrothes. Balgonie Estates now has a modern, productive and efficient hi-tech plant enabling it to increase the amount of its contract stored grain at the same time as retaining the highest levels of crop quality.
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"Our old plant was over 30 years old and we needed to increase capacity and throughput, plus upgrade our drying and processing equipment," said John Drysdale, MD of Kingdom Farming which manages Balgonie Estates' farming operations consisting of 1,800 acres of arable and storage contracts with various clients. "In particular we needed the capacity to manage an increasing amount of oats, not only from our own farms but those deemed as 'reject crop' from a
initial plans for the new plant as Edwards had already successfully installed a Svegma dryer, supplied by BDC Systems, at his own Kilrie Farm. "Edwards Engineering was restricted to creating the new plant within the existing space of the old plant which would be dismantled. This was a challenge as it required an entirely bespoke design," explained John Wilson, Area Sales Manager for Northern England and Scotland for BDC, a provider of complete grain plant solutions. "Edwards asked BDC Systems to get involved in the project design right from the initial site meeting."
BDC Svegma 51tph Continous Flow Dryer with Turbo Clean Dust Extraction
Liaising closely with Edwards the design of the new plant was carried out by BDC, addressing changes to the design brief to cater for potential new business opportunities identified by Mr Drysdale and Balgonie Estates.
John Drysdale local food processing plant," Drysdale added. Mr Drysdale approached Edwards Engineering, a multi-discipline engineering firm with more than half a century of experience, to discuss his 36 |
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"BDC has become a very important partner for Edwards over the 20 years the companies have worked together. Largely because of BDC's ability to offer an extensive range of grain handling solutions as, unlike other providers, it is not constrained by the equipment available from just one manufacturer. This means that together we can deliver solutions that exactly meet the individual requirements of customers," said Sandy Knight, Edwards'
Agricultural Manager. Numerous meetings took place and several draft proposals were presented to Mr Drysdale and the Balgonie Estates' senior management team over a period of 12 months before a final design was agreed. Designed to dry crops at a higher throughput, the new plant has significantly improved productivity and efficiency; it consists of a large bunker area with a below ground 16m long trench intake conveyor from where the grain is transferred into the plant. The grain is handled throughout the new plant by ten Skandia Elevator HLine 80tph conveyors and six Skandia H-Line elevators. The grain's journey continues through the plant via a Cimbria pre-cleaner. From there the grain is transferred www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
| Grain feeds a Cimbria fine cleaner before being transferred to the floor store buildings. All the equipment within the plant is connected to a JKF dust filtration system which removes all of the dust from the crop to a trash storage building. "At the heart of the new plant is a BDC hi-tech PLC control panel that enables just one person to manage the entire plant from the control room," said Mr Drysdale. "All the slides and valves throughout the plant are motorised so the plant manager, using the touchscreens on the control panel, can select the required grain routes." The automated control panel allows the plant to continue to work if the manager is offsite. Crucially, blockage probes, rotation sensors and belt alignment switches fitted to the grain handling equipment, close the plant down if activated. The manager is immediately alerted via text or email and so is able to deal with any issues without delay. "As well as increasing its overall drying capacity by 50% and improving the cleaning and dressing of the grain, Balgonie Estates is now able to dry high moisture oats and wheat from +24%mc down to storage moisture of 12%mc and to dry crops, including those from sources other than its own farms, down from 15%mc to 12%mc," added BDC's Mr Wilson.
Skandia H-Line Elevators outside to the BDC Svegma continuous flow 50tph dryer fitted with vertical turbo clean dust extraction fans, with any overflow returned to the intake bunker. Once dried, the grain returns to the plant through a small BM Silo buffer bin and
"BDC and Edwards have a fantastic partner relationship. This meant that I had complete confidence that the grain handling equipment they recommended would provide the best possible solution for Balgonie Estates with no compromises on what we really needed," said Mr Drysdale. "Between them they managed to successfully deliver our somewhat complex and changing requirements for a completely bespoke grain drying and processing plant that has not only met but exceeded our expectations, on time and on budget. You can't ask for anything more!"
The Ultimate in Grain Care
ain Care ain ain Care Care • Grain driers • Handling equipment
Select the BestDrying in Select the Best in Grain Select the Best in Grain Drying Grain Drying BDC BDC Systems Systems and and Svegma Svegma Continuous Continuous Flow Flow Driers Driers –– the BDCcombination: Systems and Svegma Continuous the winning winning combination: u u u u u u u u u u u u u u u u u u u u
Flow Driers – tph the Capacities from 5 to over over 100 100 tph winning combination: Capacities from Capacities from 55 to to over 100 tph Fully galvanised galvanised for indoor indoor or outdoor installation Fully for • Capacities fromor 5 outdoor to over installation 100 tph Fully galvanised for indoor or outdoor installation Fully automated, energy efficient low noise operation Fully automated, energy efficient low noise operation Fully automated, energy efficient low noise operation • Fully galvanised for indoor or outdoor installation Ideal for cereals, oils seeds, pulses and seed crops Ideal oils seeds, pulses and seed crops Ideal for for •cereals, cereals, oils seeds, pulses and seed crops Fully automated, energy efficient low noise operation Dust control control Turboclean Turboclean fans fans Dust Dust control Turboclean fans • Ideal for cereals, oils seeds, pulses and seed crops • Dust control Turboclean fans
Scotland && Northern Northern England England Area Area Sales Sales Manager Manager II T: T: 07468 07468 698188 698188 II E: E: john@bdcsystems.com john@bdcsystems.com Scotland Scotland Scotland & & Northern Northern England England Area Area Sales Sales Manager Manager II T: T: 07468 07468 698188 698188 II E: E: john@bdcsystems.com john@bdcsystems.com 01672 810851 sales@bdcsystems.com www.bdcsystems.com
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• Storage solutions • Aeration equipment • Cleaners, weighers • Mill and mix
Complete Grain Plant Solutions
BDC Systems Ltd | Grafton Road | Burbage | Marlborough | Wiltshire | SN8 3BA
August 2021 | Farming Monthly | 37
| Grain
Barley usage to remain strong next season ull season usage statistics have been published for both animal feed (including integrated poultry units) and the human and industrial sector. It is no surprise that usage of wheat was down across the board, echoing the estimates of the AHDB balance sheets.
While the relationship is far from perfect, we can use both usage data and ex-farm prices to look ahead to what we might see in the coming season. We are expecting a more balanced availability of wheat and barley in 2021/22, compared to last season. In turn, we are expecting a “healthy” discount of barley to wheat.
Full season usage of wheat in animal feed production was the lowest since 2007/08, at 4.12Mt. But this masks the true drop in wheat usage. Between 2007/08 and 2020/21 usage of cereal ingredients[1] in animal feed production has grown by 1.48Mt. Looking at wheat as a percentage of cereal ingredients, shows that usage was the lowest on digital record at 53.8% of the ration.
Through July, ex-farm feed barley, for delivery in September averaged £22.82/t discount to feed wheat. Historically, this would suggest that barley is still likely to make up a reasonable proportion of
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the animal feed ration next season (c.15-16%). If usage of cereals in animal feed continues its current path, usage of barley in compound and IPU rations could reach c. 1.16 – 1.24Mt next season. Of course, there are more things than price which determine usage. But the incentive to use barley certainly seems to remain.
[1] Wheat, barley, oats, whole and flaked maize, wheat feed and maize gluten feed.
Unsurprisingly, much of the wheat use was displaced by barley. Barley, as a proportion of the diet, was 40.7% year on year, making up 23.7% of cereal ingredients. This was driven by the huge discount of barley to wheat. Across the 2020/21 season, ex-farm feed barley (spot, UK) averaged a £44.30/t discount to feed wheat.
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| Grain
Urea based grain treatments provide relief to growers in the face of market shortages ith national shortages of grain preservation products including propionic acid being reported this season, growers are being urged to look towards urea and enzyme-based grain treatments to maximise the quality of home-grown feed.
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boost the protein content and pH of treated grain,” he explains.
Global stockpiling and trade restrictions are thought to have led to the recent shortages of propionic acid, a treatment commonly used by UK growers to protect their grain from pathogens and moulds.
“When you incorporate PowerGrain into harvest strategies, cereal crops can be harvested even in challenging conditions, such as in light rain or heavy dew, as this treatment needs at least 16% moisture to work,” he explains.
Although this market disruption could pose major challenges for farmers across the UK who routinely use propionic acid at harvest, Andrew Sincock, commercial director at Agriton, explains that there are alternative grain treatment options growers can turn to.
Mr Sincock adds that PowerGrain should be applied directly to the harvested crops within 48 hours either via a mixer wagon or mobile mill.
“Urea and enzyme-based treatments help to enhance the quality of grain for an extended period of time, and importantly help reduce the risk of pathogens and mycotoxins contaminating winter feed stocks,” he adds. “A reaction occurs when urea combines with the enzymes and moisture in grain, which helps to www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
PowerGrain is one example of a urea and enzyme-based treatment. It can enhance stored grain for up to 12 months and provides growers with greater flexibility at harvest.
“The grain will then need to be stored under a plastic sheet for two to three weeks so that the required chemical reactions can occur. After this point, the sheet can be removed, and the highquality grain can be stored safely for 12 months. “The recent market shortages have put a magnitude of pressures on the arable sector, but UK growers should feel reassured that there are fantastic alternative treatment options available that can deliver significant benefits for both the grower and the grain,” he concludes. August 2021 | Farming Monthly | 39
Whizz Middleton does a bit of everything... loading lorries, field work, corn-carting, accounts, agronomy paperwork, planning next year's cropping, environmental decisionmaking and then putting those things into practice on the farm (field margins, bird plots, hedge planting and maintenance and lots more), tinkering in the workshop, purchasing chemicals, selling the odd bit of grain... returned to the family farm in Bedford‐ shire around fifteen years ago and began working alongside my father, helping with the arable work as well as in the office. Having always done corncarting during the summer I was famil‐ iar enough with the machinery to jump straight in and get to grips with other jobs such as cultivating, loading grain lorries & topping grass. For the first few years the majority of my time was spent doing practical work on tractors, in the work‐ shop and the fields. Once I had settled into the farming way of life, I launched a rapeseed oil business, which began be‐ cause of my passion for food production and to make the link more obvious between British farming and what we all eat. Each of our rapeseed oil bottles has the grid reference and field name of where the seed came from to produce that oil – a simple way to show customers exactly where the oil is from. Nine years on and the range of rapeseed oil products has grown to include flavoured oils, salad dressings & mayonnaise. We grow a variety of arable crops including wheat, barley and oilseed rape and have a well-estab‐ lished and award-winning Countryside Stewardship scheme. This scheme has evolved over time, but the aims have always been the same – to enhance the habitats of the existing wildlife on the farm as well as introducing new species. We have suc‐ ceeded with both and now have a huge variety of flora and fauna which live and thrive alongside the arable fields, including some that are so rare that our farm is the only site where they are found in the county. Now that I have a family, the way that I work has changed as I am constantly juggling work and home life. When the children were very small, they would often come in the car with me running er‐ rands or sit in their bouncy chairs next to my desk while I got on with paperwork. When you run a farm, there is no such thing as maternity leave so the children were my shadows and I was back at work the day after they were born! The children are at school now, so I have gained a little time during the days. A typical day involves de‐ cision-making with my father on things such as fu‐ ture cropping, variety choices, purchasing of inputs and selling grain; field-walking with the dogs, in‐ specting the crops and the wildlife; sorting out rape‐ seed oil orders and deliveries and finally dealing with any issues that have arisen during the day. Once the children are in bed, it’s straight back to it, either in the office or out on the farm. My husband isn’t a farmer so although he does not help directly, he is a fantastic support and is great to bounce ideas off. Recently, I took our JCB to a local school for STEM Week, to talk to the children about the farm. They were fascinated and several of them were surprised when a lady got out of the tractor cab! The average farmer in the UK is a 59-year-old male, so it 40 |
Farming Monthly | August 2021
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shouldn’t be a shock when things like this happen, but of course it does still surprise me when I get this reaction. In the past I have had to work hard to prove that I am “as good as” some of the men around me, standing up for myself when my ability has been doubted and being strong when I’ve been spoken down to. Over the past fifteen years things have changed though and I think of myself as a farmer, not a “female” farmer. Of course, there have been moments when my capabilities have been questioned and people have assumed I’m less capable of driving large machinery, reversing a trailer or building something in the work‐ shop. A lorry driver collecting oilseed rape once tried to refuse to let me load him because I wasn’t a man, but he soon lost all credibility when he reversed his lorry into our wall! The criticism or questioning has never been from the people who matter though and with a supportive family and team behind me it has not been relevant. I am the first to admit that I am not as big or strong as the men on the farm but that doesn’t matter. I ask for help when I need to in the same way that they ask me for help with other things. The increased support that farmers have had since the pandemic has been amazing. Not only has the number of visitors to the countryside increased massively, where they have enjoyed the rural space that we work in each day and take great care of, but the general public has been
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able to rely on British agriculture for their food and drink and for that I am immensely proud.
www.mrsmiddleton.co.uk Instagram: @mrsmiddletonoil Twitter: @MrsMiddletonOil Facebook: @mrsmiddletons
August 2021 | Farming Monthly | 41
| Buildings
Designing Steel Framed Buildings for Fire
Dr Martin Heywood - RIDBA’s Technical Consultant
’m writing this article on the 4th anniversary of the Grenfell Tower tragedy, an event that shocked the entire nation and shone a much needed spotlight on the issue of fire safety in buildings. Of course there are several significant differences between a highrise residential block and a single storey agricultural building and many of the issues identified at Grenfell Tower do not apply to grain stores or animal housing. Nevertheless, fires do break out on farms, sometimes with tragic consequences, so it seemed timely to dedicate this article to the subject.
I
Regulations and fundamentals As most readers will be aware, agricultural buildings that are not used as dwellings are exempt from the Building Regulations provided that they meet certain conditions. RIDBA members, however, also supply a wide range of non-agricultural buildings (e.g. buildings for industrial, retail or educational applications), so knowledge of the basic requirements of Approved Document B, the part of the Building Regulations in England and Wales dealing with fire, is important. Furthermore, farm buildings are sometimes built close to dwellings (e.g. a barn next to the farm house) or are converted for other uses (e.g. a riding school), so the Building Regulations exemptions don’t always apply. Fortunately, even when a single storey building falls within the scope of Approved Document B, the rules are far 42 |
Farming Monthly | August 2021
less onerous than they are for multistorey buildings. There are two fundamental issues that need to be considered when designing a building against the risk of fire: •
Saving the lives of occupants within the building
•
Preventing the spread of fire to neighbouring buildings.
The former is usually critical for multistorey buildings, where there is an emphasis on preventing the spread of fire within the building (compartmentalisation), providing escape routes, the installation of sprinklers and preventing collapse of the structure by protecting critical structural elements. By contrast for single storey buildings, the emphasis is very much on preventing the spread of fire to neighbouring buildings, in particular through the collapse of a burning building onto its neighbour. Saving lives The overriding priority of Approved Document B is saving the lives of building occupants in the event of a fire. This is achieved by a combination of minimising the time needed to egress from the building and maximising the time taken for the fire to spread. The former is enabled through the provision of escape routes leading to fire exits, while the latter is often achieved by the
use of fire doors, fire-proof barriers, compartmentalisation and sprinklers. Since the majority of agricultural buildings are single storey, the simplest way of saving lives is to ensure that everyone within the building has easy access to an exit. For this reason, the exemption of agricultural buildings to the Building Regulations states that nowhere within the building may be further than 30m from an exit. Preventing the spread of fire Of greater concern for single storey buildings is the spread of fire to neighbouring buildings, especially where a neighbouring building is a dwelling. Preferably, agricultural buildings (i.e. those that are generally exempt from the Building Regulations) should be at least one and a half times their height from any building with sleeping accommodation. Where this is not possible, or for industrial or commercial buildings where there is no exemption from the regulations, it is necessary to design the building such that in the event of a fire. For braced frames, this could be achieved by protecting the external walls only (i.e. the columns and bracing), but this approach is inadequate for portal frames, because the columns and rafters act together as if they were a single structural element. For standard frames with nominally pinned bases, if the roof structure were to collapse in a fire, the walls would also collapse allowing the fire to spread. Of course, in theory, this problem could be overcome by applying fire protection to the entire www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
| Buildings portal frame. However, applying fire protection to rafters is difficult and expensive so an alternative solution is needed. SCI publication Single Storey Steel Framed Buildings in Fire Boundary Conditions (SCI-P-313) presents an alternative method in which engineering principles are applied to the design of the columns and bases to demonstrate that the columns alone could withstand the overturning moment applied to them even if the entire roof structure were to collapse in a fire. In this method, the overturning moment at the point of rafter collapse is calculated for a special fire limit state case, in which the loading is less severe than that normally used to design the structure. The column base strength and stiffness are estimated based on the actual base dimensions and thickness and the size and strength of the holding down bolts. Sprinklers are recognised to have a considerable beneficial impact on the intensity and spread of fire and a significant relaxation in the rules is permitted when they are used. Fire protection Where columns along external walls require fire protection, this should extend up to the underside of the haunch, or to the rafter where there is
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no haunch. The level of fire resistance of the protected columns should be the same as that of the wall. Values of fire resistance (i.e. duration in minutes) are given in Approved Document B. Building designers and frame manufacturers have several options when it comes to the means of fire protection. The most common are summarised (right). Boards – This is probably the simplest solution and is especially suitable for commercial and retail premises, where the boards provide the additional benefit of hiding the steelwork within a neat box. The boards are fitted as a dry trade after the completion of the structure, so do not interfere too much with the construction programme. Sprays – This solution is less common in the UK, but is sometimes used where complex shapes would be difficult to protect using boards. The end result, while effective as fire protection, is not aesthetically pleasing, so sprays are not used where appearance is important. Spays are messy to apply and no other construction work is possible during this operation.
Blankets – This solution combines the advantages of boards and sprays. In common with boards, blankets are applied as a dry trade to the completed structure, but like sprays they are suitable for complex shapes. They are especially useful for protecting truss structures, since the blankets can be wrapped around the individual elements of the truss. Intumescent coatings – Unlike the first three options, which all offer passive fire protection, intumescent coating react to temperature, foaming up to provide fire protection in the event of a fire, but otherwise resembling a painted finish to the steel. Intumescent coatings can either be thin or thick film and may be applied in the frame manufacturer’s workshop or on site. Off-site applied thin film intumescent coatings are probably the most appropriate for portal frame structures and have a significant market share in the UK.
August 2021 | Farming Monthly | 43
| Buildings
Jamie Robertson - RIDBA’s Livestock Consultant
Stress, Design & Livestock tress is normal, and animals have evolved coping mechanisms that allow them to mitigate ‘normal’ pressures. The problem with stress is not its presence, but the duration. Our livestock systems have slowly evolved to manage the stress factors, and there is still progress to be made. The article below is a summary of a presentation made at the RIDBA AGM earlier this year.
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Space The understanding of stocking density, whether for eating, drinking or lying down has increased steadily, and there is guidance on space per type and/or weight of animal from AHDB and RIDBA. The restriction of this approach is that it ignores the quality of space, so that for example the feeding or lying space at the ends of cattle buildings can be seen as low quality by livestock in wet and windy conditions, or the best possible locations during summer daytimes. Temperature The basic understanding of the impact of air temperature on livestock was established in the 44 |
Farming Monthly | August 2021
1970s and 1980s, with the idea of the thermal neutral zone (TNZ) of temperatures which did not cause an animal to either change behaviour or burn more/less energy to mitigate the impact of temperature. Animals within their TNZ have zero thermal stress. The pig and poultry sectors created building systems that recognised the cost in terms of inefficiencies and stresses of keeping animals outside their TNZ, and created controlled environment buildings. These changes sometimes and still do create other, new problems, but the thermal aspect was recognised. This has not taken place in the cattle sector, where there are large, significant and global benefits to be had for appreciating the TNZ of very young cattle. A potential role for the UK building sector is to push the status quo on youngstock building design, as discussed in the last RIDBA journal. There is also a need to realise the impact of heat stress (HS) created under typical UK conditions. The list below outlines current scientific understanding of the impact of heat stress on calves and heifers. •
Dry matter intake and growth rate reduced
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Elevated blood insulin and protein catabolism
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Accelerated respiration rate and loss of CO2
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Altered blood-based chemistry and respiratory alkalosis
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Altered rumen activity and microbiota affects feed digestibility and rumen fermentation
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Decreased luteinising hormone, oestradiol and gonadotrophins disturb normal oestrus activity, depress follicular development, hence reduced conception rates
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Prenatal HS suppresses embryonic development via hypoxia and malnutrition
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Pre and peri-natal HS impacts on the growth, immunity and future production of newborn calves.
Wang et al (2020) Journal of Animal Science and Biotechnology. Heat stress on calves and heifers: a review. Heat stress may sound unlikely under UK conditions, but will be taking place around 20oC, and lower during weather periods or in buildings with high relative humidity (>80%). There are increasing numbers of dairy cattle www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
Protection and longevity for agricultural steel
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+44 (0)121 504 2573 sales@josephash.co.uk www.josephash.co.uk August 2021 | Farming Monthly | 45
| Buildings
Stress, Design & Livestock being housed all year round, with many benefits, but heat stress is being ignored by the status quo of building. The front cover of a leading building journal recently displayed an aerial view of a newbuild 600 cow plus diary unit, which a cursory examination of the image and reference to the RIDBA Farm Buildings Handbook shows has roof ventilation capacity of <25% of requirement. We need to get better at this type of detail, and explain to the client that in this case an additional £11-15k of capital on ridge vent design is likely to increase yields by 3% a year and reduce mastitis cases by 10%. Thermal dynamics Livestock production is an energy based business. Put animals in a building and we can describe a lot of activity inside that built system in terms of energy dynamics; thermal dynamics. Thermal dynamics in a livestock building can be influenced by: •
Stocking density
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Level of nutrition
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Floor design and construction
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Drainage competence
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Bedding materials
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Building cladding U values
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Construction quality
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Ventilation system.
All factors listed above are within the influence of the building sector, albeit that a client may choose to make a different choice from one promoted by best practice and design. During the RIDBA AGM one of the members asked whether the livestock building design process included consideration of building U values, as it is in industrial new builds. This made me smile, and is hopefully part of the future, because although the answer 46 |
Farming Monthly | August 2021
(except for the pig and poultry sector) is “no, it is not”, it should be, and it will be. It is a good example of how the progressive end of the building sector will help UK agriculture. The one specific example given at the RIDBA AGM on building design factors that can contribute to livestock health and productivity related to Infectious Bovine Rhinotracheitis, (IBR), a lingering chronic respiratory infection that appeared in the 1960s and has crept through UK cattle herds in spite of widespread vaccination. Examination of the critical control points on dairy units which can contribute to thermal stress on cattle and both reduce immune competence and support the transmission of the virus produced a simple building design checklist: •
Roof slope
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U value of roof cladding
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Natural ventilation design
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Solar gain
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Air speed
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Moisture management detail.
Moisture management is not directly quantifiable, but all the others are, or can be directly measured. The pig and poultry sector have evolved building systems that have mostly produced ‘controlled environment’ buildings, and 30 years ago at R&D level buildings were designed including all of the factors in the list above. However, intelligent design does not always create optimum buildings, and animal health and welfare can still be found below target in pig and poultry buildings for predictable reasons. The first reason is the reality of decision-making, whereby material and construction costs drive choice towards shortterm gains that are long-term compromises. We need to get better at explaining the long-term compromises. The second is construction quality, particularly
around air tightness of panel structures, and the third is the understanding and maintenance requirements of building components by the user. Livestock production can produce a very demanding physical and chemical environment. A study of environmental factors in commercial UK pig facilities in 2020 found that successful management of a chronic respiratory issue included robust maintenance and hygiene practices, and was in no way related to building age. Moisture Moisture management is a key aspect of livestock systems. Livestock buildings ‘process’ tonnes of moisture per day, before we pay attention to rainfall, and loss of control of the ins and outs of water has a direct association with animal health and production efficiency. Access to water, water quality, water flow rates and the other side of the equation, management of urine, faeces and dirty water, all matter and impact on animal health. The targets are unfettered individual animal access to good quality water above a minimum flow rate, and waste disposal that does not significantly increase environmental moisture levels in the building. Animals lie down for 12-17 hours a day, so a dry bed is an absolute target, as is a period of dryness after washing out and cleaning a livestock space. The latter is not easy in the middle of winter in the UK climate, but is made easier by correct design of facilities. There are many aspects of building design that impact on animal health and productivity, but space, quality of space, an appreciation of temperature, moisture and thermal dynamics are all vital aspects that need consideration from the start. There will be stress on livestock in our systems, so we should design to mitigate duration of stress, and acquire the benefits of doing so.
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August 2021 | Farming Monthly | 47
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Farming Monthly | August Blackpool 2021
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| Buildings
Steel yourself for the future of farm buildings dvances in machinery have seen the agriculture industry transform radically in recent years, enabling even the most traditional of facilities to achieve greater efficiencies. But demand is increasing
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inability to stock shelves for weeks on end. And while other industries have already taken the bold step into smart working, agriculture is at the tip of digital tidal wave which will put data and connectivity at the centre of the sector.
cows thrive in natural light and clean air flow, so we installed vast roof light windows to a steep pitch roof, designed to provide proficient and clean ventilation. These conditions will play a vital role in increasing milk yield, while having the cows homed together in one
To accommodate these trends, premises need to be both fit for purpose today, but also ready to take on the demands of the future, able to scale at pace. As such, many farmers are considering their existing estates and employing experts to undertake major refurbishments – and in some cases, complete rebuilds – of livestock housing to improve efficiency on site, increase their yields and ensure they’re part of a revolution which will see farming firmly cemented as operating within the modern era. We’ve long been seen as consultants on the design, delivery and installation of farming buildings. The 70s was the era of the kit building; we’d liaise with a farm owner about their requirements, manufacture the entire solution on site in Preston and courier it to anywhere in the country. A local tradesperson would then be tasked with erecting the building using our drawings and written guidance. This forged our reputation as the national experts in steel framed farm buildings, and formed the basis of the bespoke design and build service we now offer – a ‘hand in hand’, partnership-led consultancy. Today, our buildings must be more intricate in their design, able to balance the need to improve animal welfare, increase efficiency, meet UK farming regulations and make cost savings. Case in point is our recent work with the owners of Pemberton Farm, Andrew and Tom Pemberton, the latter of which is making a name for himself as the ‘influencer’ of farming, using vlogging to raise awareness of the complexities you must overcome, and the commitments you must make to run a successful farm.
for output, so many previously smaller sites are increasing their footprint to offer more intensive delivery of their products to remain profitable. Teamed with this, many are taking steps now to prepare for a future that will be littered with – mostly positive – disruption. Hopes are that UK food retailers will rely more on local and home-based food suppliers to mass produce and mitigate the varying impacts of Brexit, which is already causing delays in food deliveries and in some cases, an www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
Home to over 120 cows, Pemberton Farm’s former multiple cow sheds no longer offered the levels of comfort or quality the owners sought for their livestock. They required a single, more fit for purpose replacement, which had to be located on a specific part of the farm with exceptionally tight parameters. We were employed to design a solution which would satisfy both criteria, and prepare the site for an anticipated increase in demand for dairy output in coming years. Despite global materials shortages and an upfront project to stabilise the groundworks with bespoke foundations, we’ve been able to deliver a cow shed which gives Pemberton Farm a competitive edge. Centre to our finished solution is the wellbeing of the cattle;
building will reduce labour time on site, running costs and waste. The farming sector is taking itself more seriously than ever before because of the way the world is changing around it. It’s our responsibility as experts in the field to inform customers about what will make a building work for them, based on their individual circumstances today and what they want to achieve in the future, so they’re armed for the challenge.
August 2021 | Farming Monthly | 49
| Buildings
Darlington Farmers Auction Mart arlington Farmers Auction Mart is a project that has been in the pipeline for many years and S&A Fabrications in Barnard Castle have been involved almost from the start. When ground was broken in July 2019 S&A started on site
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of the work, the steel structure, completed just before Christmas 2019.
and look forward to seeing it open for business. For it to be recognised and nominated for a RIDBA award makes all of us very proud indeed”
The structure has three spans of single skin units for animals and a fourth span and lean to which is insulated and will be used for offices and the auction rings. There is also a separate, standalone building, which will be used as a lairage. S&A manufactured all of the structural and secondary steel, from their base in Barnard Castle as well as erecting and cladding all of the buildings including the highly impressive main entrance.
constructing the 6,000 square meter building with completion of their phase www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
With a strong history in the agricultural sector in the North East and a few smaller marts already built by S&A, this flagship project is certainly something the company can be proud of. Simon Pelly, Managing Director of S&A Fabrications: “Working alongside Hall Construction has been a pleasure with the two companies working on many projects throughout the North East on an annual basis. Halls have similar values to S&A, which makes working together so much easier and results in many happy customers.” He continued “we are very proud to have been involved in the construction Darlington Famers Market
EXPERTISE & INNOVATION IN STEEL FRAMED BUILDINGS
For more information call 01833 696 927 or visit s-and-a.co.uk • design and build • steel fabrication • steel erection • project management
August 2021 | Farming Monthly | 51
| Mental Health
Visiting British farmland improves our mental health, new survey finds V
isiting the British countryside has improved the physical and mental health of people living in towns and cities across Britain over the past year - a new survey has revealed.
The survey, conducted by Censuswide, spoke to more than 2,000 British people outside of rural areas across England and Wales. 87% of respondents who visit the British countryside and farmland said visits to Britain’s farmed landscape had improved their wellbeing and nearly half (47%) said they valued the British countryside and farmland more since the pandemic began. Of those, 84% agree their visits had made them appreciate the role farmers play creating our iconic rural landscapes. This comes at the same time as a separate survey by Savanta ComRes for Farmers Guardian, as part of its ‘#FarmingCAN’ campaign, which shows 71% of people feel fortunate to be able to access the British countryside and over half of people (53%) are now more likely to seek out leisure and tourism in the UK countryside than travelling abroad. NFU Deputy President Stuart Roberts said: “The results from this survey clearly show the public’s huge appreciation of the benefits the British countryside offers to the nation, and that they recognise the valuable role farmers play in creating our iconic landscapes. 52 |
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“British farmers not only produce our food, but they play a vital role maintaining, protecting and enhancing the landscape that has helped all of our mental health. It’s fantastic to see that those who actually live furthest away from rural areas have directly benefitted in this way from the work of farmers. “More people than ever before have been visiting farmland over the past year and the appreciation we’ve seen from the public for the respite the farmed landscape has provided has been fantastic to see. “As farmers, we love to see walkers out enjoying our landscape and asking questions about what’s happening in the fields or what food we’re producing from our farms. In particular, more people are visiting for the first time and beginning to truly understand how farming works in this country. “It’s this patchwork of food and farming landscapes that farmers and their families work hard to maintain and care for that is providing the backdrop to these visits. I hope this increased appreciation leads to better long-term understanding of what the countryside delivers for the nation. “Recognition for the role farming plays, and importantly as government sets new agriculture polices, is essential if we are serious about levelling up rural Britain and truly valuing the role rural Britain plays in the overall health and wellbeing of our nation.”
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August 2021 | Farming Monthly | 53
| Energy
Flogas powers UK’s first biogas-to-grid plant dapt Biogas is a leading producer of biogas – a renewable gas produced from the breakdown of organic matter, including residual cattle feed, cattle manure, and agricultural crops. The company is the first in the UK to generate its own onsite heat and electricity using liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Flogas. Feeding two combined heat and power (CHP) engines, this provides electricity to power the company’s unique biogas-to-grid injection system as well as heat to kickstart its biogas production cycle.
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The anaerobic digestion (AD) plant in Murrow, Cambridgeshire, is the nation’s first to inject biomethane at high pressure directly into the National Grid’s National Transmission System (NTS). Its current connection is set up for 2,000 sm3 of biomethane per hour. However, a planned new injection line will support flows of up to 15,000 sm3 per hour, which is enough renewable gas to supply more than 87,500 households each year. In a bid to increase renewable energy sources across the UK, this will also aid other anaerobic digestion sites with a lack of grid export capacity, to reach their full production potential. “Gas to grid injection is a highly comprehensive renewable energy solution, so we needed to find a way to generate our own reliable, uninterrupted power supply whilst keeping costs down,” says Sophie Swan, operations manager at Adapt Biogas. “We also wanted to make sure we were using a low carbon fuel, minimising our impact on the environment. That’s why we decided to run our CHP engines on LNG. Not only is it one of the lowest carbon conventional off-grid fuels you can use, but it’s the most cost-effective solution for us. It also allows us to run effectively in island mode, reducing concerns about power outages or costly downtime.” Shenton Group designed a turnkey solution comprising two 500KW CHPs and a 330kVA generator, as well as a system to monitor and react to the site’s mains connection condition. This allowed them to maximise power stability whilst complying with the strict requirements from the DNO. These CHPs produce enough electricity and heat to power the gas injection process whilst also supporting its gas upgrading system, converting 54 |
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biogas to grid-ready biomethane. The upgrade enabled the new equipment to synchronise and co-operate with the legacy CHP units already on-site, providing cost savings and further sustainability benefits. Fuelling these CHPs is an above-ground LNG tank adjacent to the AD plant and close to the engines and grid entry compound. This is fitted with a telemetry system, along with gas and fire detection, allowing Flogas to safely operate the plant unmanned and remotely monitor gas usage, automatically scheduling deliveries when needed. “This is the first time LNG has been used to power CHPs, plus it’s our first CHP biogas-to-grid solution, so it was really exciting to be part of such a unique project,” says Mark Rutherford, Flogas National Business Development Manager. “Adapt Biogas has high volume, high intensity fuel needs, so LNG was the most efficient and economical solution for them. Our expert engineers worked closely with the team from the start to create a fully bespoke system that would meet their exact fuel requirements and we managed the whole process for them, from design through to installation and commissioning.” By using LNG to fuel its CHP engines, Adapt Biogas is able to forgo significant carbon emissions. This is because of LNG’s low CO2e emissions compared to other common fuels. Flogas is very happy to support Adapt Biogas’ (and ultimately the UK’s) effort to adopt low carbon fuels in order to meet climate change targets. Sophie adds, “We have a strong working relationship with Flogas, from previous assistance at other sites. We knew we could trust them to show us the best solution for our Murrow plant and make it all happen seamlessly, even during what’s been a tricky 12 months due to the pandemic. We feel really supported by the team and deliveries are reliable, so we’re always confident we’ve got the LNG supply we need. We’re growing quickly as a business, so we look forward to working with Flogas more as we expand into additional sites.”
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| Energy
Smart and safe: 5 benefits to farmers of remote CHP monitoring ith the pandemic accelerating the trend of remote working and business owners looking for new ways of keeping their workforce safe, remote CHP monitoring systems have grown in popularity at on-farm AD plants across the UK. Enabling farmers to track and control their engine’s performance remotely and in real time, they minimise the financial impact caused by interruptions in performance, improve overall CHP efficiency and reduce the number of staff required on site. James Thompson, Managing Director of independent CHP parts and service provider Gen-C, outlines the key benefits of this intelligent technology and explains why remote engine tracking is one Covid legacy that’s here to stay…
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1.
Increased engine uptime
Traditionally, if an engine unexpectedly shuts down overnight, it may not be discovered until an employee arrives on site the next morning. Worse still, there may be a wait of another day or two for an engineer to physically restart it. During this prolonged and unanticipated period of downtime the CHP is producing no heat or power, resulting in a loss in revenue for the farmer. With a remote engine monitoring system, farmers will receive an instant alert should their engine shut down at any time of the day or night. They can then remotely log into the control panel and alter any parameters at the touch of a button before restarting the engine directly via their laptop or mobile phone. Reducing downtime to as little as five minutes, CHP availability – and therefore the owner’s profit margin – is significantly increased. 2.
Optimised fuel ratio
The composition of an engine’s fuel can directly impact its performance. A fuel that is too rich or too lean can affect the overall efficient running of a CHP and hinder ignition, making restarts difficult. This is particularly true for AD plants, where variations in gas volumes and composition are common. Today’s smart CHP monitoring systems (such as the IGS-LOG which comes as standard with any Motortech open-access control panel supplied by Gen-C) allow engine operators to constantly track the fuel mixture, recording trends over time as well as flagging any immediate issues. The operator can then remotely adjust the ratio before performance is affected, ensuring their engine runs smoothly and efficiently. 3.
Safer engine restarts
The presence of combustible gas gives CHP engines an inherent safety risk and one of the most hazardous operations is the ignition phase. By linking a smart www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
monitoring system to a camera, farmers can visually verify that no personnel are in the vicinity before remotely restarting their CHP, as well as ensuring that there is no physical damage to the engine which could make ignition especially hazardous. The addition of a camera also makes it easier and quicker for companies such as Gen-C to remotely support customers with any technical issues they may encounter. We provide a year’s free technical support with every smart control panel installation, potentially saving CHP owners thousands of pounds each month in service plan charges. 4.
Extended equipment lifespan
One of the many parameters that can be monitored every three seconds by a smart CHP tracking system is oil quality. Tracking this helps to identify any unusual oil behaviour and enables farmers to take swift action to protect their equipment. While a gradual deterioration in oil quality is to be expected, rapid worsening could indicate contamination (for example, metal, water or coolant in the oil). This can make the oil abrasive and reduce its lubricating properties, leading to parts and systems wearing out more quickly. Without this early warning system, oil quality issues may only be discovered during an engine’s mid-life service, when major parts such as the crank shaft may need to be replaced earlier than expected at an additional cost. 5.
Improved diagnostics
A key benefit of remote CHP monitoring is improved accuracy in diagnosing the cause of faults. For example, we were recently contacted by a client whose engine mixer was defaulting to manual setting. After reviewing the data log on the monitoring system, we noticed a drop in voltage in the control panel batteries. We mapped the voltage across both engines over two weeks and spotted a trend; one panel battery was underperforming and was being supported by its sister engine. Every time the underperforming battery handed over to its sister, the voltage dropped, causing the mixer to switch to manual mode. We replaced the problematic battery at a cost of £40 – just 10% of what the client might have paid to replace the mixer – and the problem was instantly rectified. The operating parameters for a turbo engine running on a specialist gas such as biogas are incredibly narrow; live remote monitoring gives farmers full control any time and from anywhere, promoting efficient operation, protecting staff and equipment, and increasing engine uptime. For more information, contact james.thompson@gen-c.co.uk August 2021 | Farming Monthly | 55
| Energy
Low Carbon Agriculture: Cutting through the noise to support the farming transition ow Carbon Agriculture show will take place in person on 8-9 March 2022, at the National Agriculture and Exhibition Centre (NAEC), to support farmers as they move through the agricultural transition.
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The event will provide practical guidance on sustainable land use, renewable energy generation and emission control, cutting through the noise to get to the heart of what new changes mean for farmers, by covering specific pressing topics such as policy, carbon storage, soil health, natural capital, net zero, renewable energy, low emission vehicles and agri-tech. Held in partnership with the National
Farmers Union (NFU) and the Country Land and Business Association (CLA), Low Carbon Agriculture show incorporates four expos including: ‘Environmental Business Expo’, ‘Farm Technology Expo’, ‘Energy Now Expo’
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and ‘Low Emission Vehicles Expo.’ Low Carbon Agriculture will feature its renowned multi-streamed conference, workshops, an exhibition, test drives of low emission vehicles and machinery and demonstrations of the latest innovations in agri-tech. Visitors to the event will be able to make one-to-one appointments in advance of the event, as well as attending networking roundtable discussions run by exhibitors.
“Climate change is arguably our greatest societal challenge and land use is right at the heart of the debate. CLA members are very aware of the imperative to deliver a lower carbon footprint, and we at the CLA are working
Jonathan Scurlock, Chief Adviser, Renewable Energy and Climate Change for the National Farmers’ Union (NFU), says: “Following the Glasgow climate talks later this year, Low Carbon Agriculture show 2022 offers a key opportunity to reflect upon the impacts of the UK COP26 presidency. “The National Farmers Union is a proud partner of the show, which is an increasingly important event in the farming calendar, for those who want to cut through the noise and get practical advice from the experts about the future of farming. Its focus on low carbon farming, natural capital, agri-tech, and low emission vehicles is in tune with current policy at a time of monumental change in agriculture. Sarah Hendry, CLA Director General says:
hard to advise them on that. Implementing low-carbon practices within the current pattern of land use will offer some emissions reduction and will sit alongside more fundamental changes including afforestation. It is a time of seismic transition in agriculture, so the CLA are pleased to support the Low Carbon Agriculture Show, which will showcase what landowners and farmers are already doing to protect the environment and explore what more they can do.” David Jacobmeyer, Low Carbon Agriculture Show Organiser, says: “The show provides practical guidance
www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
| Energy and solutions for farmers wishing to increase the sustainability of their business and drive down harmful emissions. It’s about helping them to make lasting connections with people who will assist them in the agricultural transition “We are delighted to be partnering with the NFU and CLA and look forward to welcoming thousands of farmers and land managers to Stoneleigh Park, for what should be an informative and exciting few days!” The show is committed to reducing its impact on the environment, going paper free and implementing digital check in and navigation, ensuring any materials used are sustainable, responsibly
sourced or can be recycled, with a ban on the use of all single use plastic. Following on from the success of the virtual Low Carbon Agriculture show in March this year, and the many successful ‘Digital Insights’ webinars held each month on the run up to the show, the event continues to be ahead of the curve, evolving from its roots as ‘Energy Now Expo’, and celebrates 13 years of success next March. Low Carbon Agriculture Show is free to attend and features the Energy Now Expo, in which an exhibition will be accompanied by an energy storage theatre and a cutting-edge conference programme, covering all forms of renewables. The Low Emission Vehicles
Expo will showcase the latest lowcarbon transport and machinery solutions, highlight the related opportunities, and feature a test track. The Environmental Business Expo will include an exhibition and conference sessions offering practical guidance to farmers on the management and reduction of harmful greenhouse gasses, carbon sequestration, regenerative farming and effective environmental land management, in preparation for the ELM scheme. Suppliers of innovative agri-tech will take part in the exhibition and workshop area within the Farm Technology Expo. Visit www.lowcarbonagricultureshow.co.uk to learn more.
Climate emergency cannot be fixed by technology alone P
ost-growth strategies must be integrated in new models to meet climate targets
New climate models that challenge the assumption that wealthy countries can continue to pursue economic growth, while mitigating the impact of climate change, must be developed urgently to help inform realistic public and policy debate, say academics writing in the journal Nature Energy today.
Direct air carbon capture and storage (DACCS) may avoid some of these problems but could use up to 50 percent of the world's current electricity generation to achieve the carbon removal rates assumed in existing scenarios, making it difficult to decarbonise the global energy supply.
The academics call for scientists who develop climate models to explore post-growth approaches which are designed to keep economies stable without growth, while improving people's lives.
Dr Jason Hickel, lead author of the paper and Visiting Senior Fellow at the International Inequalities Institute at the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), said: "Scientists have raised substantial questions about the risks of negative emissions technologies and the feasibility of sufficiently decoupling economic growth from rising emissions. Put bluntly, these approaches may not be adequate to address the cri
One of the authors is Professor Manfred Lenzen from the Centre for Integrated Sustainability Analysis in the School of Physics at the University of Sydney.
"We're gambling the future of humanity and the rest of life on earth because of the assumption that GDP must continue to grow in rich countries."
He said: "Because we've not implemented significant emissions reductions over the past decades when we should have, we now need to reduce emissions rapidly and like we've never done before.
The paper's authors argue that economic growth is not necessary for social progress in already wealthy countries. Instead, human needs and wellbeing can be provided for by reducing inequality, ensuring living wages, shortening the work week to maintain full employment and guaranteeing universal access to public healthcare, education, transportation, energy, water and affordable housing.
"We cannot keep temperature rises below 1.5 degrees using technology alone – unfortunately this will require lifestyle changes in wealthy countries." The academics point out that existing models, which are based on continued economic growth, gamble on dramatic and potentially unfeasible technological change to meet the Paris Agreement goals of keeping global warming below 1.5 or 2 degrees Celsius. Economic growth is projected to drive a significant increase in energy demand over the coming decades, making climate mitigation more difficult. If high-income countries continue to grow at their usual rates, they will need to decarbonise their economic outputs by more than 12 percent a year, which will be a significant challenge. The authors raise concerns that assumptions about negative emissions technologies are "speculative and risky". For example, scaling up bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) would require massive amounts of agricultural land and water to grow crops for biofuels.
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Dr Hickel said: "The policies we propose would actually improve the lives of the vast majority of people. "If we share the yields of our economy more fairly, we can ensure good lives for all without plundering the planet for more." The authors highlight possible policy interventions across transport, industry, the building sector and in cities that would make it possible to achieve rapid decarbonisation without relying so heavily on negative emissions technologies and productivity improvements. These include shifting from private cars to public and nonmotorised transportation, extending product lifespans by mandating warranties and regulating against planned obsolescence, shifting people to healthier plant-based diets and urban planning that would enable most people to access urban centres within 15 minutes.
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| The Glamping Show
Diversify your assets and open up additional revenue streams with glamping ith the recent boom in domestic tourism and countryside breaks, there’s great opportunity for landowners to capitalise on by adding an additional revenue stream through accommodation. With low start-up costs, high returns on investment, minimal planning concerns and quick set-up times, glamping is the perfect way to start offering accommodation on your land.
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The Glamping Show 2021 is heading into its seventh year with its best event yet. Taking place at the NAEC
Stoneleigh from the 16th to the 18th of September, visit The Glamping to get all of the latest information and solutions to diversify your assets. “For anyone who has, or is considering, a glamping business, The Glamping Show is an essential 3 days where you can learn about all the latest and greatest products on the market as well as hearing from industry leading experts sharing their knowledge. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find it at The Glamping Show!” Dan Wiseman, Exhibition Manager at Swan Events. Discover With 90 stands already signed up at this year’s event, The Glamping Show puts all of the latest products and services that the industry has to offer at your fingertips. So far, 24 of these suppliers are making their Glamping Show debut, meaning that they will
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be exhibiting products and services never before seen at the show. Every corner of the glamping sector is covered by suppliers exhibiting at the show. The event serves as a one stop shop for all of your glamping needs. So, whether you are in the initial design stages of your site, or are just looking to refresh your accommodation interiors, The Glamping Show has what you need. “The Glamping show was instrumental in the process of setting up our business. The quality & diversity of stands were both incredibly visual & inspiring! Also, equally important was the opportunity to discuss our plans with those producers. We then had the opportunity listen to expert talks and even a coffee break became networking with people from all over the UK. To have a ‘one stop shop event’ with everything you need for wherever your
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| The Glamping Show between. No matter what questions you have, the answers can be found in The Glamping Show Seminar Programme. “The Glamping Show seminars really helped open our eyes to areas of operating a glamping business we hadn’t even thought of. It was vital in our business research and planning. At the show, we were able to meet great suppliers and learn from existing operators to avoid costly set-up mistakes.” Sarah Orchard, The Hudnalls Hideout. For more information about The Glamping Show 2021 you can find their website at theglampingshow.com
business is at the moment is really special.” Suzi Drew owner of Belan Bluebell Woods. Learn The Seminar Programme will be back and better than ever, tackling everything you need to know to start a successful glamping business. Led by a world class faculty, these industry leading experts are willing to share their knowledge and experience, so make sure not to miss out. These invaluable talks will cover every aspect of running a glamping site, from the nitty gritty details of getting set up, to guides on how to offer world class customer service and everything in
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August 2021 | Farming Monthly | 59
| The Glamping Show
Business is booming—there’s never been a better time to invest in the UK’s #1 glamping franchise! e’ve all learned to reevaluate after the pandemic, and it’s likely you’re taking stock of your needs as well. Farming isn’t what it used to be, and making sure everything’s steady can be challenging. What seemed to be guaranteed before just isn’t anymore, and everyone’s had to adjust their sails. But, in the wake of decreased overseas travel and increased apprehension about going abroad, the glamping business has been booming. There’s never been a better time to join, and there’s so much that it can offer you.
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More and more people were looking for non-abroad holidays before the pandemic even began, but we’ve now seen an absolute explosion in demand for comfortable and near-by accommodation. Travel is still high on people’s list of priorities as we’ve all spent far too much time in our homes already, but most people are looking for something more affordable. Being outdoors offers post-COVID peace of mind, as guests know they won’t be in a poorly-ventilated space. If you’re in the market for diversifying your farm and increasing your monthly
revenue, Wigwam Holidays can give you the support and experience you need to make the most of your investment. And there’s clearly never been a better time to do it. We have over thirty years of experience, longer than anyone else in the industry, and a brand name that you can trust to be there for you. Starting a new business takes a lot of work, but entering into the challenge with a wealth of knowledge behind you can make it a lot easier. Everything from planning your site layout, running your website, and advertising to customers can be assisted by our dedicated team. We’ll give you a helping hand so you enter the holiday business on the best possible foot. Glamping is one of the most cost effective and financially rewarding possibilities for farm diversification, and Wigwam is the best in the game. You’ll be able to tap into the collective knowledge of all of our 80+ successful sites and ask people running sites like yours for insights and help problemsolving. They can give you tips on hottubs, event-planning, and even social media.
Skip the grueling early days of marketing your glampsite from the ground up by being a part of a preestablished brand. You’ll have the freedom to run your site how you feel is best, but the assurances of a dedicated headquarters there when you need anything. The glamping industry is growing like crazy, and we have the knowledge to give you a head start. If you’re looking for a way to get involved, we’ll be here. We know how this whole thing works and we want to see you do well. Wigwam Holidays has 87 sites across the whole of the UK. Contact 0131 450 7126, https://www.wigwamholidays.com/starta-site
There has never been a better time to join the UK’s #1 Glamping franchise Visit us at
16-18 Sept 2021
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| Grassland and Silage
Top tips for feeding this year's silage airy farmers across the UK and Ireland are being encouraged to analyse their forages regularly during feed-out, to ensure rations meet performance targets and support rumen health.
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According to Lientjie Colahan, technical sales support at Lallemand Animal Nutrition, this year's silage could present a challenge for the rumen due to the variable spring weather playing havoc with usual cutting practice. “It has been a tale of two halves this year. Some were able to get their first cuts harvested very early and others had to wait much later than usual. “As a result, we are faced with two likely scenarios. Farmers will have either early-cut ‘rocket fuel’ silages that are highly digestible and could impact rumen pH, or high NDF silages that were cut late and are not as digestible as you’d want them to be,” she says. Where first-cut was later, silages will have a higher lignin content.
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“Plant fibre is made up of cellulose and hemicellulose - both of which can be digested by ruminants - and a third component, lignin, which cannot. As grass leys age the lignin content increases, lowering overall fibre quality and digestibility. So, for those who took cuts later than planned, this could be an issue,” says Mrs Colahan.
Mrs Colahan also recommends the inclusion of a rumen specific live yeast, which she explains will prove beneficial in both situations. “The function of a live yeast is to help the good microbes outcompete the bad microbes, and therefore establish a more favourable balance within the rumen.
She explains for farms who cut early and made high quality, high ME but low NDF silage, the problem will be the opposite.
“When it comes to high NDF silages, specific live yeast has a positive impact on the rumen fungi that work to break open the outer layer of the fibre particles. This allows the rumen bacteria to then break down the fibre further, making it more digestible and improving its utilisation by the cow.
“These highly digestible silages will move through the rumen quickly and could increase the acidosis risk by challenging the stability of rumen pH.” In either scenario, Mrs Colahan says it will be important to analyse forage regularly and balance diets accordingly to maintain cow health and performance. “For example, highly digestible silages could be balanced with a cereal wholecrop that has a high straw content. This will slow down the passage rate through the rumen and maximise digestion of the rations fibre component,” she says. “Or if your forage is very stemmy and high in NDF, making sure the chop length of the total mixed ration (TMR) is as short as possible will help decrease the particle size of the feed. This helps the microbes break down the fibre more easily and will maintain good dry matter intake of the ration.”
“On the other hand, in a situation where acid load may be increased as a result of highly digestible forages, a live yeast promotes the bacteria that utilise lactic acid as a food source as-well as competing directly with the lactic acid producing bacteria for their food source. This regulates the rumen pH by reducing the amount of lactic acid present.” Mrs Colahan concludes by saying regardless of the type of silage you have to work with, close attention to detail during feed-out will help you get the most out of the available forage and support productivity.
August 2021 | Farming Monthly | 61
| Grassland and Silage
Maize Silage aize forage offers a high nutritional content to both dairy and beef herds, however it needs to be harvested and ensiled correctly to get the most nutritional content and reduce spoilage in the clamp. Even when the maize is harvested at the right time, the DM losses between harvest and feed out can be as high as 20-25%. This means that up to a quarter of the dry matter in your clamp could be lost due to spoilage.
Clingseal is a thinner, more flexible sheet that is designed to sit directly beneath a top sheet. This vacuum sheet clings to the clamp’s surface and tucks in better at the sides to form a highly efficient oxygen barrier. This closer fit minimises air pockets to help prevent the formation of white mould, creating the right environment for a faster, more efficient fermentation process for producing high quality maize silage. Although Clingseal is thin and flexible, it has a high resistance to punctures and tears making it easier to apply.
Good consolidation of the clamp during ensiling is crucial. Start by using Visqueen Side Sheets to reduce air ingress from the side walls, and fill the clamp in even layers of 10 - 15cm deep. Compact each layer as filling takes place, and aim for a target density of 250kg DM/m3. When the clamp is full, roll for ½ to 1 hour to get good compaction and then start sheeting the clamp. To get the best results, use a vacuum sheet such as Clingseal.
The side sheets should be folded over the top of the vacuum sheet to protect the top and shoulders, where spoilage is most likely to occur. Visqueen Agri-S top sheet should then be applied by rolling it down the centre of the clamp and folding it out towards the edges. Once the black sheeting reaches the edges, it should be tucked in to give extra protection from spoilage.
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Using a Visqueen Agri-S top sheet gives a higher level of protection, with its tear
and puncture resistance, it can withstand the high demands of the farm environment, and has UV protection to ensure the best conditions for the ensiling process. Together, these sheets are especially good for ensiling high value, moist crops such as brewer’s grains and crimped maize. These types of crops are more likely to have higher levels of spoilage that lead to lower feed intakes, and reduced conversion rates. Once the sheeting process has been completed, the clamp should be weighted down with a mesh cover, bales or mats. These should be added to give a constant pressure to the whole of the clamp’s surface. Using this process for maize silage can result in less losses in the clamp, higher nutritional values and increased returns from home grown forage. For more hints and tips for silage making, search Visqueen silage sheeting on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.
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August 2021 | Farming Monthly | 63
| Security
Rural theft fell last year but still cost Wiltshire £865,000 A
ccording to a report published today by a leading insurer specialising in farming and rural interests, Wiltshire saw rural theft fall by 19% in 2020. The South West region saw a decrease of 24% over the previous 12
months.
Nationally, the value of rural thefts has been estimated at £43.3m in 2020, the lowest annual cost in 5 years. Detective Sergeant Greg Fergusson of the Rural Crime Team said: “Rural crime has fallen during the lockdown periods over the past year. However, what we have seen is a shift of theft of larger equipment such as livestock, tractors and loaders to smaller items such as GPS systems and quad bikes that can more easily be transported. Livestock theft is still a problem but it has been harder to move animals around the country as there have been fewer vehicles on the road.” “Any theft can have a big impact on local communities, insurance premiums and food prices. Modern farming methods use GPS for gathering data about soil and to monitor crop conditions and many farms have quadbikes. To combat such crimes we work closely with land owners, neighbouring Police Forces and rural communities and organisations who provide valuable intelligence.” “We need everybody to be alert to rural theft particularly now Covid rules have been relaxed. You can report on the Wiltshire Police website or by calling 101. In an emergency situation always call 999.”
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Rural crime is not limited to theft but includes heritage crime and wildlife crime such as animal cruelty, poaching and hare coursing. The Rural Crime Team is diligent in its work and over the past month has run a number of roadside operations alongside Roads Policing Unit, Wiltshire Council Environmental Health Officers and National Vehicle Crime Intelligence Service. The purpose of the operation was to disrupt those individuals who are involved in illegal waste removal/disposal and to identify stolen machinery and vehicles which maybe moving about on the roads of Wiltshire. A number of offences were identified and follow upenquiries are also being completed by the Wiltshire Council environment officers on several waste carriers. Drivers can expect to see more of these joint operations as the Rural Crime Team and Roads Policing Unit continue to pursue those involved in rural crime offences. As we enter the harvest season we expect to see an increase in hare coursing and the Rural Crime Team, along with our community policing teams and colleagues in the Ministry of Defence Police, will be actively seeking to prevent, disrupt and capture those involved in this activity. We would ask members of the public who see activity they believe to be hare coursing, groups of men with running dogs in large open fields for example, to report the matter as soon as possible.
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| Pig & Poultry
Applications are open for AHDB's Pig Industry Scholarship programme
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ompanies in the pig industry have until 31 August to apply to take an agricultural student on in their business for a year.
very first Pig Industry Scholarship. We see this positively, both in terms of bringing valuable resource into the Red Tractor team and, long-term, hopefully encouraging new talent to embark on a career in the pig sector or wider agri-food industry.
Developed by the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB), National Pig Association (NPA) and Harper Adams University and now in its ninth year, the Pig Industry Scholarship programme has seen 35 students spend their placement year within the industry, with many finding employment with their placement companies after graduation.
"We believe Red Tractor's unique position in the supply chain, engaging with farmers, processors, retailers, food brands and government, means we have a lot to offer our chosen scholar in terms of exposure and opportunity for professional development."
Pippa Handley, Senior Knowledge Exchange Manager at AHDB said: "Attracting new entrants and inspiring the younger generation to pursue a career in the pig industry is key if our industry is to remain successful.
Dearbhla Connell took part in the programme in 2019/20 and has since secured a Junior Account Manager position with her employer ABN, she said: "Scholarship placements give employers an opportunity to demonstrate to students why they are passionate about the pig industry and the careers it can offer.
"For students, the scholarship provides a clear route into the pig industry and showcases the dynamic nature and variety of roles available throughout the supply chain. For businesses, it offers first access to a huge pool of talent and an opportunity to appraise students during what is effectively a year-long interview. It means relationships can form between students and businesses early in their studies, leading to a continued interest and desire to remain in the industry." Companies that have taken part in the scheme include producers, those in the supply chain and Non-Governmental Organisations. Georgina Crayford, Technical Manager for Pigs at Red Tractor, and a participant in the scheme, said: "We are delighted to have offered our
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K pig producers are at a big disadvantage in comparison to their global counterparts - and it’s forcing many out of business.
That is according to first-generation pig farmer Martyn Rowley from the Staffordshire/ Shropshire border who has had to completely change the nature of his operation to keep the company afloat. Between the years of 1984, when Martyn left school, and 2018, the number of breeding sows in the UK dropped by around 42 per cent. This, Martyn says, is due to the competition in the supermarket industry, which has driven down retail prices and led to the mainstream retail giants importing meat from overseas. This, in turn, has seen the price of pork produced in the UK tumble, in order for the nation’s farmers to be able to compete. To address this, Martyn has entered into partnership with sustainable online retailer 44 Foods, to help keep his business viable. He has also had to alter the way his business works numerous times in order to succeed in such a challenging market. “It’s no secret that the production of many things can be done with less cost in certain parts of the world and the UK buyers have taken advantage of this,” says Martyn, of Buttercross Butchers.
"Getting a detailed insight into a company helps students to make informed choices about the path they take after university and can provide a great opportunity to kick off a graduate career when you get on well with your placement sponsor." Companies who would like to find out more about taking part in the scheme can express an interest before 31 August. Placements will run across the 2022/23 academic year. To find out more, get in touch with Pippa Handley on pippa.handley@ahdb.org.uk or 07580 704323, or visit: ahdb.org.uk/pig-industry-scholarship
are 20 to 30 years behind that of the UK.
“44 Foods offers a sign of hope for the future.”
“The labour costs and the costs of welfare compliance puts the UK pig producer at a serious disadvantage and consequently many have left the industry entirely, leaving the remainder to fight their way through the best way they can.
Managing Director for 44 Foods, Hannah Anderson, said: “The food industry continually evolves but if the pandemic has taught us anything it’s that people want great quality at a great price delivered to their doorstep. But that doesn’t mean it has to be cheap.
“While the prices of pork have barely risen over the last few decades, the price of everything else has increased; making it more expensive than ever to feed and care for pigs.
“Indeed, while price has always been one of the major factors, we launched 44 Foods with the direct promise of paying our suppliers a fair price.
“Though the vet bills are lower due to higher welfare practices, they do mean more money in work, food and land. “This disparity has spawned businesses like Buttercross that feel there is a market for higher-welfare, home-produced pigs - one that supermarkets don’t fill very well.”
“44 Foods is like a nationwide farm shop, giving shoppers access to the UK’s most innovative producers who care deeply about what they put on the shelf. If we simply treated their products like a commodity, driving down the price in order to increase our profit margins, then all it serves to do is undermine the quality of their goods.
That is where Martyn’s partnership with 44 Foods comes in. The food delivery service shares Martyn’s view. The UK’s fairest food delivery service, this ethical, sustainable online retailer sells only British produce of the highest standard - and allows producers to set their own prices, meaning farmers such as Martyn get a fair deal.
“There are other positive knock-on effects too. For a start, our suppliers actually like dealing with us - we are very straight forward and understand the food world so it’s all much simpler. They get ample lead time for their products, and we are very understanding when things are out of season or unavailable.
“We like 44 Foods because they have the understanding that you can’t go online, or even into most food shops, and have quality and consistency,” explained Martyn.
“Secondly, customers love the added shelf life that they get with their products. Not only are they the best quality but they last longer so less gets chucked in the bin!
“The issue that the UK farmers have with this is that independently, the UK’s stance on animal welfare over the years has, quite rightly, demanded farmers produce their food animals in increasingly improving conditions.
“Once most farmers get big, they tend to cheapen their products.
“Their overseas counterparts may speak of animal welfare but in practice their methods
“44 Foods wants to offer a service where people can buy high quality fresh products and they offer all sorts of produce. It’s a great concept that we wanted to be involved in.
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“Letting our farmers and growers dictate the price may seem counter intuitive but looking after this element of the supply chain ensures we can offer the best products on the market.
“And thirdly, not one person has complained about the price because they know it’s fair for all sides.”
August 2021 | Farming Monthly | 65
| UK Dairy Day
UK Dairy Day 2021 – We’re Back and Good To Go s we start to positively move forward following 17 months of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic the UK Dairy Day team are committed to UK Dairy Day taking place on Wednesday 15th September 2021 at the International Centre, Telford. With all adults over 40 expected to have received the double vaccine and the sheer scale of the vaccine roll-out for other age groups, there is the confidence that the event will go ahead. Meetings have been held and continue to be held with key parties including the local authority and venue. Everything is being done so that the event can be staged responsibly with additional measures in place to ensure visitors, staff and exhibitors feel safe at the event. •
Changes to layouts and expertise in crowd management to avoid build-up in popular areas
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Additional ventilation systems for internal exhibition areas
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Enhanced cleaning regime and
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waste disposal •
Hand sanitiser available across the site
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Implementation of relevant industry guidelines
Behind the scenes, the UK Dairy Day team are working on all elements of the event and thank everyone for the continued support, feedback and cooperation as changes are implemented to ensure the event can return safely. UK Dairy Day Event Director, Sue Cope, revealed: “We have been overwhelmed with positive support and reaction from the industry to make the event happen. The team has already planned and implemented additional measures to safeguard and reassure our exhibitors and visitors. It is unmistakably clear the vaccines are working and the sheer scale of the vaccine roll-out has supported the freedom to enable the event to happen. We can’t wait to welcome everyone back to UK Dairy Day at Telford on Wednesday 15th September.”
UK Dairy Day will bring all facets of the dairy industry together at the International Centre in Telford. After months of virtual working and socialising this will be the first dairy trade event to be held since lockdown in March 2020. It will be the place to be on Wednesday 15th September and a great opportunity for anyone connected to the dairy industry to network, share knowledge, learn, and most importantly make future business decisions. Across internal and external exhibition areas will be exhibitors showcasing products, services and technologies on the market to enhance dairy business performance and efficiency. The Sharing Knowledge Zone will be located on the first floor with professional service providers, charities and colleges on hand to offer advice and support. A careers board will be available for visitors and exhibitors to advertise current opportunities within the dairy industry, and DeLacy Executive representatives will also be in attendance as an associate sponsor. Dairy cattle will return to the event which will host the National Shows for
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| UK Dairy Day Ayrshire, Brown Swiss, Guernsey and Holstein breeds, along with classes for Dairy Shorthorn and Jersey. The stall booking deadline for cattle exhibitors is Friday 6th August 2021 and the cattle entry deadline is Friday 3rd September 2021. A fantastic leading line-up of judges will cast their professional eye over the show ring. •
The National Ayrshire Show Judge - John Suffern
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The National Brown Swiss Show Judge - Stuart Williams
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The National Holstein Show Judge - David Booth
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The National Dairy Shorthorn Show Judge - Owain Harries
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Guernsey Show Judge - Dawn Coryn
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Jersey Show Judge - Ben Etteridge
One of the highlights for visitors is the practical demonstrations taking place throughout the day. Tim Carter and his team return to the external trade stand area where they will demonstrate foot trimming and knife sharpening, including block work. The qualified team of independent foot trimmers will demonstrate the key to the success of any task is having the right tools for the job. The practical demonstrations on dairy cows will be streamed to a large TV screen with commentary so visitors could see firsthand the detail required. They will also be highlighting The Cattle Hoof Care Standards Board, a self-funding non-profit organisation aimed at improving the health, welfare and mobility of the national herd, through ensuring its members promote, achieve and maintain a recognised and validated standard of cattle hoof care. Scarsdale Vets return to present their innovative and engaging demonstration using paint to visualise and understand calf anatomy. Throughout the day the ‘Beneath the Black and White’ calf painting uses paint to assist the understanding of calf health and welfare. In Hall 3 foyer, adjacent to the cattle lines will be the NBDC breed village where an experienced team of classifiers will do live Type Classification and Linear Scoring demonstrations. A leading line up of speakers will be part of the three panels for the seminar zone on the first floor. The seminars will cover key topics related to farming without subsidies, climate change, and market conditions. The new product zone, sponsored by IDEXX, will showcase any new products or services they have www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
launched over the last 12 months. Displayed in the concourse these will be judged during the event. In addition judging of trade stands and cattle lines will take place and awards presented for Best Small, Medium and Large Internal trade stands, Best External trade stand, Best Presented Lines, Tidy Lines, along with the Holstein UK Premier Exhibitor Award and the Holstein UK Premier Breeder Award. Remember to book your accommodation and plan your visit. There are excellent transport links with M54, Telford Railway Station and regional airports at Birmingham (BHX) and East Midlands (EMA) with numerous car parks adjacent to the venue and around Telford town centre. For more information visit www.ukdairyday.co.uk and keep up to date on social media. #ukdairyday #dedicatedtodairy Save the date: UK Dairy Day 2021 on Wednesday 15th September from 8am to 5.30pm UK Dairy Day 2021 – Meet the National Holstein Show judge Hosting the National Holstein Show, UK Dairy Day welcomes David Booth to judge a leading line up of Holstein cattle. David, who is a fourthgeneration farmer, has judged at many shows throughout the UK and previous appointments include the All Breeds All Britain Calf Show, Balmoral Show and the Royal Welsh Show. What have been the breeding highlights at Feizor? Winning the Royal Show was a childhood dream, and in 2005 we had Champion Holstein with Cleevale Storm Meggie. Winning the Premier Herd in 2012 and Master Breeder in 2017. Also breeding Feizor Shottle Delia and Feizor Shottle Joy, 2 remarkable cows still milking in the herd due again with their 13th and 11th calves respectively. What are you looking for in your cows stood at the top of the lineup? Balanced cows with width throughout and great mammary systems. I like cows with nice bone quality, breed character in the head and neck with correct rump structure and that can track well on the move. How has this changed over the years? I think stature is less important now and feel balance and overall quality plays a bigger part. Udders have probably made the biggest improvement over the years cows need to look well on the move and not
just stood still in the line-up. What order of preference do you place on production/health/ type? An overall combination of these 3 things but type will probably come first as if you breed the right type of cow, her production and health will follow. What is the first thing you look at when you select an AI sire? The cow family behind the sire and the sire stacks on both the maternal and paternal lines. I always ask myself if the matings in the pedigree will work. Which is the cow that you have admired the most internationally? There have been many great cows over the years, and haven’t seen them all in person. I would say in the show ring R F Goldwyn Hailey impressed me most. She was an out and out dairy cow with strength, femininity and probably the best locomotion of any cow I have seen in a show ring. Another cow which I really admired was on my first trip to North America. I came across C Taraley Astro Sherri. She was not the tallest cow back then which probably went against her but looking back she was a cow ahead of her time. What tips you would give to the next generation entering the showing world? Obviously, you need passion and hard work really does pay off. The preparation before the shows is the most important. The main thing is to enjoy it and remember you never stop learning. Where do you see your business in the next 5 years – are there any plans to change breeding regimes? My main focus will be to breed high producing, high type, profitable cows as I always believe you can always sell a good one. Automation might play a bigger role in the future but as I feel labour is the biggest challenge in the industry, we need more young people coming into the industry who are eager to learn and adapt new strategies. The packed schedule for the centre stage cattle show will see breeders compete for a share of the prize fund. Entry is free with thanks to cattle infrastructure sponsor NWF Agriculture. The cattle entry deadline is Friday 3rd September 2021.
August 2021 | Farming Monthly | 67
| Livestock
Take steps to prevent heat stress in animals, urges agricultural expert, as extreme heat warning issued by Met Office n agricultural expert is warning about the potentially fatal impact of heat stress on livestock and outlined steps farmers can take to reduce the risk, after the Met Office issued its first ever extreme heat warning.
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The amber warning covers large parts of Wales, all of south-west England and parts of southern and central England and will be in place until Thursday, when temperatures are expected to peak. The Met Office launched its new extreme heat warning in June 2021 to highlight potential widespread disruption and adverse health effects. The warning came after all four UK nations recorded the hottest day of the year over the weekend. Rob Matthews, of rural insurance broker Lycetts, urged farms – particularly mixed farms – to not overlook the effect of rising temperatures on livestock and to take precautionary measures against heat stress. He said: “Farming is a weather dependent industry, acutely sensitive to temperature extremes, so the summer can be an extremely worrying and testing time of year for farmers, particularly as the weather increasingly oscillates between heavy rainfall and soaring temperatures due to climate change. “Harvest often takes precedence in these critical months, with time and effort concentrated on maximising yields. “Of course, the wellbeing of the livestock is also top priority for farmers, but it takes just a few extra degrees, over a relatively short period of time, for animals to suffer the effects of heat stress – it can happen quickly and without much warning. “Unfortunately, many animals do not have the ability to dissipate enough heat to maintain homeothermy, so even seemingly subtle increases in air temperature can be very harmful and can lead to death. “An increase in body temperature can also impact on milk productivity in dairy cows, and cause beef cattle to lose condition. “Farmers care deeply about the wellbeing of their animals and losing animals in this way can be very distressing.” Rob outlined some simple measures farmers can take to reduce the risk of heat stress in different farm animals.
Beef Cattle Cows out to pasture are not usually as susceptible to heat stress as those kept in sheds. Cattle naturally produce a lot of heat whilst they’re eating, and this peaks around four hours after feeding. Therefore, cattle kept in sheds need to be fed earlier than usual to avoid their body temperatures peaking in the middle of the day.
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During periods of extended heat and humidity, it may be necessary to provide extra water. Poultry
Dairy Cattle
Poultry are highly susceptible to heat stress, and the first sign of this in birds is panting.
Increased ventilation, fans, shade and sprinklers can all help with reducing body temperatures. These should be used in holding pens and milking parlours.
To prevent overheating, keep sheds well ventilated, look to decrease the number of birds per square metre and keep water sources fresh and cool.
Access to water should be a given but intake is likely to double under heat stress. Make sure calves in huts or cows separated for rest have additional water, as these animals are more susceptible to heat stress.
Birds produce heat whilst digesting food so look to feed birds during the cooler parts of the day. With broilers and turkeys remove feed from the birds around six hours before peak temperatures and reintroduce once it’s starting to cool.
An increase in moisture caused by excessive sweating can also lead to mastitis.
Working Dogs
Pigs Pigs are much more sensitive to heat than other animals because they lack the ability to sweat. Signs of stress in pigs include openmouth breathing, vocalisation, blotchy skin, stiffness, muscle tremors and reluctance to move. If pigs begin to demonstrate these symptoms, allow them to rest, keep them cool with fans and have access to plenty of water. It can be helpful to sprinkle cool water onto pigs. Avoid pouring large amounts of cold water onto the pigs, as this could cause shock. Pigs housed outside need plenty of shade. Sheep Sheep tend to be less susceptible to heat stress than other livestock. Wool protects sheep from extreme heat, as well as extreme cold. Make sure sheep have been sheared and pay close attention for issues
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caused by flies.
Don’t forget about working dogs during extreme heat. Avoid working them during the peak of the day. Keep dogs in well ventilated shade and with regular access to water. A shallow paddling pool is a fast way for a dog to cool down their body temperature. Avoid taking dogs with you in the tractor or pick-up whilst temperatures are high. “General advice would be to monitor heat levels, take measures to keep animals cool when temperatures start to rise, and look out for tell-tale signs, such lethargy, open-mouth panting, reduced food intake and agitation,” added Rob. “Farmers should also remember that they are not immune to heat stress themselves. Remember to seek shade, particularly at the hottest times of the day, drink plenty of water, and take regular rest periods.” If animals are displaying signs of heat stress, farmers are advised to seek veterinary help immediately.
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| Livestock
Breedr trades £1.85m of cattle since its launch in February
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reedr, the free herd management app for farmers, has traded more than £1.85m worth of cattle since launching its trading platform just four months ago.
three trades – no commission paid. “I had 50 new cattle waiting to come into the sheds, and it was an excellent process for the buyer as it’s totally fair and transparent on weights. They knew what they were going to get.” Integrated supply chains
In that time, farmers have sold 2,912 cattle; 2,475 of liveweight trades and 437 deadweight. “We are delighted that farmers are finding it so easy to buy and sell through the app,” says Breedr founder Ian Wheal. “Feedback has been incredibly positive, with sellers enjoying the speed and ease of selling stock and purchasers buoyed by the confidence that buying based on actual weights gives.” The app enables farmers to list their stock for sale, complete with their movement history, weights, growth rates, medicine usage and photos. On average, vendors have received 99.7% of their asking price and have sold within five days of listing. The average lot size is 14 head, commanding £11,530 – and stock range from weaned calves to stores and finished cattle. Devon trades Tom Samuel, who buys and sells about 750 head of cattle a year at South Lendon Farm near Exeter, Devon, recently listed a group of 46 steers and heifers on the app and sold them within days. “The cattle were collected within a week, the customer was delighted with them, and Breedr paid directly into my bank within 72 hours – it was so easy,” he says. Even better, he had no haulage to pay, no time wasted, and – for his first www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
Cheryl Reeves rears 600-700 Belgian Blue, Aberdeen Angus and Friesian calves a year at Woodcroft Farm, Wrexham, Shropshire, and has found the time saved from selling through the app to be a real bonus given her additional off-farm job. “It’s just really quick; putting up an advert takes 15 minutes at most. And it’s great not having to take a day off work, go to market, come back and wash the trailer out. It’s so worthwhile having the customer or their haulier come here to collect instead.” Chris Sharpe – who farms at Steepleton Lodge Farm, West Haddon, Northamptonshire - bought 20 calves from Mrs Reeves through the app, and has now established a regular supply from her. “We have a glamping site, so we sell our beef to visitors for BBQ, as well as to local people and restaurants. Through Breedr I can buy from known and trusted sources.” Confident buying Having that confidence in prospective purchases has been extremely valuable to Dan Hutton, who keeps 150 cattle at Church View Farm, Brampton, Cumbria. He recently bought a batch of 18 Charolais and Simmental cattle from Scotland, something which would typically take weeks.
“It would normally take a month to get that many, but the trade was all done and dusted in half an hour,” he says. “The time it saves is unbelievable. And without doubt, knowing the weight of the livestock gives you much more confidence in buying. All the information you could want is right there in front of you.” Weight gains Lois Black, near Greenock, outside Glasgow, has been using the Breedr app since October to help monitor weight gain in her herd of 70 Simmental, Shorthorn, and Angus cattle, and is now selling them using the online marketplace. “Using Breedr has changed my life,” she says. “It used to be that the dealer would come and we’d have a look at the animal, guess the weight and then negotiate a price. But when I started weighing my cattle, I realised they were heavier than I thought, so I could sell them for more. I’ve sold 24 cattle so far on Breedr and got around £100 a head more than usual, so it’s made quite a big difference to my income.” Around 3,000 buyers and sellers are currently registered to trade through the app, and the first three trades are commission free until October. With supply likely to increase through August, now’s the time to list cattle for sale and benefit from current buoyant pricing and demand. For more information visit www.breedr.co, or call Mel or Simon on 03300 436327 for all trading related questions or advice.
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| Livestock
English Winter Fair to return in November armers and the rural community will be brought together again at the Staffordshire County Showground on 20 and 21 November for the 2021 English Winter Fair, it has been confirmed.
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The Fair’s return follows its cancellation in 2020 due to coronavirus restrictions.
Some of the UK’s best cattle, sheep and pigs are expected to enter the Fair and the National Pedigree Calf Show, which takes place over the weekend. Alongside the livestock classes, farmers and food producers can enter their best carcass and food products to be judged while visitors can experience shopping, and food and 70 |
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drink, providing activities for everyone to enjoy in the lead-up to Christmas. The National Pedigree Calf Show will take place on the Saturday, while the overall Winter Fair champion will be judged on Sunday. Both classes carry a £1,000 prize for the supreme champion. The Duke of Norfolk competition hosted by the Royal Smithfield Club returns again for 2021. First introduced in 2019, the competition sees breed societies select a set of three animals from existing pedigree classes to represent their breed. In the carcass hall, butchers and food producers will showcase their high-quality British meat products, and the Christmas Country Fair will be back to get everyone in the festive spirit with some Christmas shopping and the chance to indulge in delicious food and drink. Farmers will also be able to get support and business advice from a breadth of farming organisations and experts that will be on hand to provide information. Richard Williams, CEO of the Staffordshire and Birmingham Agricultural Society, said: “I am thrilled
to announce that the English Winter Fair is returning and to welcome farmers and the rural community back after what has been a particularly isolating 18 months. “The Fair has long been a highlight for Britain’s farmers, bringing them together for a rare social event and showcasing the high standard of livestock brought to the fair each year by top producers from across the UK. “Being able to gather with like-minded folk to celebrate and showcase British food and farming has been sorely missed during lockdown and we are all looking forward to this event more than ever. “We are working hard to implement the necessary safety measures to help ensure the event goes ahead and give everyone in attendance a fantastic experience. I encourage the rural community and farmers to take some well-deserved time out from their schedule this year to get together and enjoy the festivities.” The schedule for the event will be published in mid-September. Tickets are £8 in advance or £10 on the gate and the car park opens at 8am. For more information and entries go to www.staffscountyshowground.co.uk/ english-winter-fair www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
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WOMEN IN DAIRY PANEL SELECT THREE FINALISTS FOR DAIRY INDUSTRY WOMAN OF THE YEAR AWARD
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hree finalists have been selected for this year’s Dairy Industry Woman of the Year Award. Run as part of the RABDF’s Women in Dairy initiative the award is now in its fourth year and has previously crowned the likes of Mary Quicke MBE and Karen Halton of Halton Farms winners.
This year’s nominations have seen a lot of young dairy ambassadors nominated says Women in Dairy organiser Emily Egan. “It’s really great to see lots of young talent coming to the forefront of the nominations as
they are the future of our industry. “This year’s finalists all act as exemplary ambassadors for the sector, displaying strengths in areas that are vital to the future success of British dairy farming, which is going to make choosing a winner very difficult.” The finalists will now face an interview with members of the advisory panel ahead of the award being presented at the Women in Dairy Conference, which is taking place virtually, on Wednesday 22 September. More information and tickets can be found at www.womenindairy.co.uk
Finalists:
Finalists:
Finalists:
Amy Eggleston (Instagram: @thedairydaughter)
Poppy and Josie Lewis (Instagram: @sistersinwellies)
Sophie Gregory (Instagram: @farmer_in_training)
Passionate about the industry and educating others Amy opens the family farm up to schools and supermarkets and anyone in the wider public who wants to learn more about dairy farming. She also participates in video calls with schools, speaking to a wide age range, from nursery aged preschoolers to sixth form children looking to start their career. Having built up a huge following on social media she regularly uses this platform to promote the sector and give updates on her day-to-day farming life.
Sisters Poppy and Josie Lewis are taking over the family farm from their parents. Milking 200 cows and rearing calves and cattle they show how resilience, hard work and teamwork contributes to business development.
From a non-farming background Sophie is a mum of three young children, works on the family farm and spends any other free time educating the public about farming. She is part of several focus groups, takes part in Farmer Time and her and her family have been featured in various Arla videos about farming. She also takes part in Open Farm Sunday doing live videos for their facebook page.
She has recently written as a columnist for Farmers Weekly for 12 months, featured on national TV and local radio and taken part in the Tesco Future Farmer Foundation. www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
The farm already runs an adventure park and has recently invested in a new parlour which includes a viewing gallery and information centre that is set to open to the public with the aim of educating people about agriculture and the dairy industry. They also use their social media platform to educate their following on what farming entails.
Showing schools around the farm and explaining the logic behind everyday farming practices through social media are just a couple of examples of her passion for the industry and educating the next generation.
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| Livestock After removing all debris and steam cleaning, Dr Tommy Heffernan advises calf pens to then be sprayed with a DEFRA approved disinfectant.
THIS 3-DAY SANITATION PLAN WILL HAVE FACILITIES READY FOR THE CALVING SEASON
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isinfecting calving facilities prior to the calving season helps reduce future disease pressure
As youngstock facilities empty out over the summer months, dairy producers should take the opportunity to disinfect pens in preparation for the next calving season, says veterinary consultant Dr Tommy Heffernan. “The low level of immunity in calves makes them very vulnerable to disease, especially in the first days and weeks of life” says Dr Heffernan. “While it is important to practice good hygiene during this period and support immunity development, lingering pathogens from the previous calving season will further increase the infection risk, making it harder to keep calves healthy.” According to Dr Heffernan, pre-calving hygiene isn’t a complicated task and can be taken care of in three days: Day 1 Remove all debris, manure, old bedding, etc. from the pens. Use a power washer to remove any visible residues, paying close attention to wall and ground crevices since they capture faeces. Day 2 Steam clean the entire facility to sterilise the environment and remove any stuck residues. 72 |
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Day 3 Soak the shed with the appropriate disinfectant according to directions and let it sit dry until calving season. “When making decisions on what needs to be sanitised, look at your farm like a production line from where the calf will first be to where it will end up,” says Dr Heffernan. “Everything in that production line from feeding equipment and calving pens to gates needs to be cleaned.” Effective disinfectant Equally important as ensuring the right equipment and facilities are being sanitised, the right disinfectant must be used in the correct dilution rate, says Alison Clark, dairy hygiene specialist for Progiene. “Disinfectants must be chosen based on active ingredients that are DEFRA approved to kill specific pathogens. This is essential to ensure your disinfectant of choice is capable of preventing the spread of disease on your farm since very few products on the market kill a broad spectrum of pathogens,” Ms Clark says. To determine which pathogens disinfectant needs to be selected for, Ms Clark recommends referring back to any records from the previous calving season that show scour test kit or lab results.
salmonella and E.coli, however, if coccidiosis or cryptosporidiosis are found to be present, then a product like Coxicur needs to be selected,” she says. If the pathogen status is unknown, Ms Clark advises using a disinfectant like Coxicur. “Keeping track of what pathogens are present on farm will help to choose the appropriate disinfectant. A great way to do this is through the use of Progiene calf scour test kits throughout the calving season. Within 10 minutes of collecting fresh manure, the test can detect rotavirus, coronavirus, E. coli and cryptosporidium parvum in calves,” says Ms Clark. Importance of pre-calving hygiene In findings from the 2021 UK Dairy Biosecurity Survey, 78% of farms reported having scour related pathogens in the last two years. “The majority of farms have scour causing pathogens, which are highly transmissible and pathogens like cryptosporidium can survive for months in the right conditions,” concludes Dr Heffernan. “Taking a few days to properly clean out and disinfect pens and equipment ahead of the calving season will be hugely beneficial to supporting to health and performance of those calves.”
“A product like Tibicur will kill TB, www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
| Livestock
Four new farmers join AHDB Farm Excellence project our beef and lamb farms from across England have joined AHDB's successful Farm Excellence project this month. Operating a variety of different systems, the new Monitor Farmers are:
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David Cross, Norfolk Ian Farrant, Herefordshire Rob and Liz Priest, Devon Harry Sordy, Northumberland Karen O'Callaghan-Lowe, head of ruminant knowledge exchange at AHDB, said: "We're pleased to welcome our new farms on board. We had a large number of applicants this year and it was really difficult to choose only four to participate in the four-year project.
"We began the project in 2017 and over the past five years we've worked with 16 Strategic Farms which have all had success in implementing best practice, resulting in improved financial performance. As part of the programme, we also engaged directly with thousands of levy payers through the on-farm events and online webinars." Harry Sordy of Alnham Farm, Alnwick, Northumberland, said: "I'm thrilled to have been chosen to take part in the project. Joining the programme offers my family business a unique opportunity to surround ourselves with like-minded farmers and industry experts, giving us the best possible chance to take our business forward. It's a fantastic way to open our doors to other farmers at a time when the industry is faced with an incredible amount of change and I look forward to welcoming guests to our on-farm events."
Karen added: "The first round of events for the new farms are taking place throughout August 2021. There will be a focus on key areas of a functioning farm business including environmental matters, breeding, health, grassland management and financial performance. The events are an excellent opportunity for farmers to learn from the Monitor Farm programme and share their own experiences and I would encourage all levy payers to attend." To book your free place at one of the events, visit: www.ahdb.org.uk/events. To find out more about the Farming Excellence program and to follow our new Monitor Farmers' progress, visit: www.ahdb.org.uk/farm-excellence/ beef-lamb
Cost-effective cleaner launched A
new, highly efficient and cost-effective cleaner for animal housing, veterinary clinics and food processing industries has been launched by animal health specialists, Hysolv.
Alkaliene, a fast-foaming, non-corrosive, first-stage cleaner, can be used at concentrations from 1:320 to 1:50 (0.3 to 2 per cent) to cut through biofilm on hard surfaces, equipment and vehicles before final disinfection. Applied by foaming lance or knapsack sprayer at low pressure, it is left for 15 minutes before being pressure-washed off. “A good cleaning product is as important as a good disinfectant as you can’t normally disinfect through dirt,” said Hysolv director, Jim Bigmore. “Alkaline cleaners work by reacting with acids found in dirt and dung to neutralize and cleanse. Alkaliene is very versatile and cost effective, not only due to its lower price per litre, but also because of the different dilution rates that can be used.” The company is initially targeting the broiler industry where production costs are particularly critical. Depending on the concentration used, 25 litres of Alkaliene will produce from 1,250 to 8,000 litres of ready-to-use solution. It is competitively priced with discounts for quantities.
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| Muck & Slurry
Hi-Spec muck or slurry spreaders
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hen it comes to comes to the handling of muck and slurry, Hi-Spec Engineering have the
Farming Monthly | August 2021
ideal solution in their comprehensive range of machinery. Vacuum tankers
The Hi-Spec tanker range includes a wide range of models with capacities from 800 gallons (3,600 litres) up to 5,000 gallons (22,700 litres), all available with
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| Muck & Slurry
numerous filling and other options, allowing you to tailor tankers to your specific needs. All Hi-Spec vacuum tankers are manufactured using high quality British steel and incorporate internal implosion rings and a collared dished end as standard to ensure the strongest possible construction. All tanks are fully supported by the complete chassis frame and models are available with both standard or stepped recessed axles. The recessed axle lowers the centre of gravity, which not only improves stability both on the road and on undulating ground. Options include a wide range of filling options, including high capacity pumps and a cab operate filling arm. The intake system can also incorporate a Vogelsang Rotacut 5000 chopping unit to avoid any potential blockage to the injectors caused by straw or silage in the slurry. A wide range of spreading attachments are available, including the Hi-Spec Trailing Shoe, available in working widths of 6.0, 7.5, 9.0 and 10.5 metres. This features a robust chassis mounted mast which ensures that the tanker and shoe are perfectly balanced and that the shoe is properly supported to the tanker. It are also designed so that both the fill points and
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splash plate can be used without any modifications. The Hi-Spec trailing shoe can also be used as a dribble bar if needed without any contact with the ground. Alternatively a wide range of disc injectors (Bomech), dribble bars (Vogelsang or AgQuip) and trailing shoe (Bomech or AgQuip) can be used in conjunction with the tankers. Rear and side discharge muck spreaders The range of spreaders from HiSpec Engineering include both the rear discharge XCEL 1250 spreader and two side discharge machines. The Hi-Spec XCEL 1250 is unique in that it uses a rotary chain and flail system to achieve a good break up of material, which is then spread using a pair of spinning discs. The shredding rotor carries 22 heavy duty chains, which in turn carry 12mm Hardox flail heads, mounted under a 4mm Hardox hood, that shred all the material to an even consistency and ensure no lumps are deposited onto the spreading rotors. An adjustment plate on the shredding rotor hood, evenly places the manure onto the spreading discs to ensure an even spread.
12 tonnes and can evenly spread material up to 24m. The material to be spread is moved rearward by a single slat marine grade floor chain, drivenby a hydraulic motor with overload protection and variable speed adjustment. Options include various tyre sizes, a weigh cell and the ISOBUS compatible RDS iSOCAN Apollo spreader control system or the straightforward Digi-Star GT400 weighing system. Two Hi-Spec side discharge spreaders are available – the 8m3 SS800 and the 10m3 SS1000. As with the tankers, HiSpec manure spreaders are built using heavy-duty 5mm thick British steel and feature a 3mm lid. Standard specification includes a ring hitch, hydraulic braking and LED road lights, while the SS1000 also incorporates centralised greasing. Further information on the HiSpec range of muck and slurry spreaders and the wide range of options available can be found at https://www.hispec.net/slurrytanker/
The Xcel 1250 has a capacity of
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| Muck & Slurry
New tanker mounted dribble bars ramspread has launched the tanker mounted Suffolk Range. The new dribble bars have been added to the already available tractor mounted umbilical system dribble bars, launched earlier this year. “We had always planned to increase the Suffolk Range with tanker mounted dribble bars. The new models are available in 6 to 12 metre widths and are suitable for use with most tankers,” explains, Managing Director, Terry Baker.
these bars much safer for farmers and contractors when transitioning from fields and travelling on the road,” he says.
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The dribble bar outlets are spaced 250 millimetres apart to optimise the amount of slurry that can be spread across the boom width. These are attached by four welded lugs which take the weight of the dribble bar off the tanker rear door. “The dribble bars are designed to be light and easy to retrofit without putting undue stress on the tanker,” says Mr Baker. The 6 and 9 metre bars have two double acting hydraulic functions making the bars easy to operate and reliable. The 12 metre is better suited to larger tankers and attaches to the four-point linkage with two double and one single acting hydraulic function. The 12-metre width differs slightly with outlets spaced at 300mm. The Suffolk range is designed to enable flow meters and slurry monitoring to be retrofitted, and it can also be converted to umbilical slurry applications. “We have designed these to be adaptable ‘plug and play’ dribble bars so users can attach the bars easily and quickly start a job,” he adds.
The galvanised booms are all fitted with a Vogelsang ECQ macerator and fold vertically with automatic transport latches which include safety locks. “The transport latches with safety locks make
to understanding the amount of plant available N being applied to the crop. The Tramspread Isobus flow meter package costing £6,030 is one of the most accurate methods of measuring slurry application. It connects a flow meter to the tractor’s GPS and can be used to adjust the application rate from the cab. Before using slurry an accurate test to establish its nutrient value will help to provide the optimum flow rate per acre. An Agros Nova liquid manure testing kit costs £450 and offers users laboratory test quality results. The nutrient value of the slurry in conjunction with the speed of flow can then be used to ascertain the amount of N applied per acre/ hectare. “To make best use of our new dribble bar technology we recommend all operators invest in testing and monitoring equipment to make best use of slurry for the crop,” concludes Mr Baker.
Measuring the amount of slurry is crucial
For over 30 years Tramspread have supplied and manufactured slurry equipment. Our products have been rigorously tested by our contracting division and we trust them to do the job every time.
BAG TANKS
RECK SLATTED FLOOR MIXER
ALL SLURRY TO BE COVERED BY 2027
NURSE BAGS
For help and advice adapting your farm to meet DEFRA’s Clean Air Strategy.
RECK PTO MIXERS
CONTACT US TODAY
STORAGE SEPARATION & MIXING
HEXA-COVER
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Call: +44 (0)1449 766133 Email: info@tramspread.co.uk Visit: www.tramspread.co.uk
STALLKAMP SEPARATORS
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| Muck & Slurry
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| Muck & Slurry
NEW Vervaet Quad 550 demonstration tour planned he impressive new Vervaet Quad 550 self-propelled slurry applicator has been undergoing very successful field trials on the continent and is due to arrive on British shores this summer. J Riley Beet Harvesters (UK) Ltd, exclusive UK
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importers of Vervaet products for over 25 years, is planning a comprehensive demonstration tour to take place after harvest. First unveiled in February, the new Quad is packed full of new developments and expands Vervaet’s
range of professional manure application technology, slotting into place between the three-wheel Hydro Trike and five-wheel Hydro Trike XL. Boasting 550hp from a 13-litre Volvo Penta engine, its innovative hydromechanical transmission with diff-locks delivers all of this power to the ground.
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| Muck & Slurry
Its crab steer ability allows for onewheel-per-track working to minimise soil impact. “They ticked as many boxes as you can with a self-propelled slurry machine when designing the Quad,” says Riley sales manager Matt Carse. “It encompasses the best design features available on the market. For example, the suction arm is in the right position to allow various booms to fold down the side for transport. It has more options available too, including tyre choice and pumps. A European wide demo tour is commencing soon, and we expect to see it in the UK in late August. I’m looking forward to bringing the Quad to as many potential customers and users
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as we can this summer and autumn.” The Quad’s slurry system incorporates a 21m3 tank and phenomenal pump capacity of up to 13,500l/min. An 8000kg capacity rear-linkage can carry a vast array of application implements. A solid manure spreading body for the Quad is planned for the near future, further expanding its industry-leading capabilities. “During field tests we have been very impressed with the machine’s traction, power and quiet running,” says Jonathan Hoekman, sales manager at Vervaet in Holland. “The British market was a very important factor behind the development of the machine,
specifically the need to work in tramlines through growing crops. We see a bright future for this market, especially with our continuing advances in precision applicationtechnology such as real-time nutrient analysis of the slurry. In fact, we are the only manufacturer of selfpropelled machines with the John Deere NIR sensor integrated into our own software. With this combination of the right machine and first-class backup from our UK importers, J Riley, we think we have the best package around.” For more information or to arrange a demonstration Matt Carse can be contacted on 07825 631377.
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| Machinery
DEUTZ-FAHR LAUNCHES NEW 5-SERIES TRACTOR
EUTZ-FAHR has launched its new 5-Series tractor that meets all Stage V emissions regulations, and also boasts a new design that offers versatility, agility and improved operator comfort and safety.
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With powerful FARMotion Stage V engines, efficient transmissions with APS, high capacity hydraulics, all-round LED lighting, built-in compatibility with SDF Smart Farming Solutions systems and an all-new design, the new 5-Series represents the latest evolution in DEUTZ-FAHR utility tractors. There are five models in the 5-Series range with power outputs from 95 and 126hp and a choice of three transmission configurations, including hydraulic PowerShuttle with STOP&Go function giving greater flexibility, and a comprehensive range of accessories to cater for the needs of any user. The new FARMotion 35 and 45 engines deliver impressive power and torque over a generous range of engine speeds. The highly modular transmission contributes to the multi-role versatility of the 5-Series and its ability to tackle any task. Depending on the transmission configuration, the 5-Series covers a range of working speeds from 300m/h (for ultra-slow tasks with supercreeper gear) up to 40km/h at economy engine speeds (for lower fuel consumption, noise and vibration when used for high speed road transport tasks). With up to 60+60 gears and the newly available APS (Automatic PowerShift) function, the 5-Series selects the most appropriate powershift ratio automatically for maximum performance. The APS system also includes a dial that allows the operator to set the priority of how the APS function is managed in different working environments. The PTO offers all four standard speeds 80 |
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(540/540E/1000/1000E), and is engaged via an electrohydraulically controlled multiplate wet clutch. The 5Series is also offered with the option of a groundspeed PTO with independent output shaft and a 1000rpm front PTO. Excellent agility of the new 5-Series is assured via the generous steering angle of the front axle, a power shuttle with adjustable response setting, the Stop&Go system and the SDD rapid steering function. For example, when working with a front loader these features make a job easier, more precise and quicker. The 5-Series has a wide choice of narrow and municipal tyres. The hydraulic system has up to eight rear couplers, and can be equipped with a 90 l/min version. A completely electronic rear lift is also available, featuring an oscillation damping system and automatic PTO engagement. In addition to the 5400kg rear lift capacity, with the option of a 2100kg front lift. The “Hydraulic Parking Brake” holds the
tractor securely even on high gradients and when heavily loaded, with up to 250% more braking power than a conventional system, and reduces power losses by 1.5kw (approximately 2 HP) compared with a conventional system. A state of the art data transmission device connects the tractor directly to the farm and enables the use of “SDF Smart Farming Solutions” – a new digital suite that simplifies tracking and data acquisition to facilitate subsequent decision making processes. The CTM gives you real-time access from the comfort of the office to the performance data of the machines at work, providing precise information on their position, diesel consumption, average speed and working hours, as well as any error or information codes. The TopVision cab design and layout offers greater levels of comfort and ergonomics. The 4-pillar structure of the cab and generous glazing ensures unimpeded all-round view, while the innovative “Hydro Silent-Block” cab suspension increases comfort. Fully adjustable steering column and air suspension seat with folding passenger seat further enhances the operator experience. High-visibility roof and opening hatch, high quality climate control system, DAB audio system with Bluetooth and USB ports are additional features on board the new 5-Series. When working at night, up to 12 LED work lights can be mounted on cab roof, with additional work lights installed on the cab pillars and on the new grille of the cowl.
www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
| Machinery
Seedbed preparation at a new level
NZ Extreme
Introducing Väderstad NZ Extreme 1250-1425 High-quality design, excellent field performance and a great capacity – Introducing the all-new 12.5 to 14.25m wide heavy-duty tine harrow Väderstad NZ Extreme 1250-1425. With depth precision as its specialty, NZ Extreme sets a new standard for field performance when it comes to seedbed preparation.
Learn more at vaderstad.com www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
August 2021 | Farming Monthly | 81
| Machinery
Bobcat Wins Highest Retained Value Award for 6th Year Running obcat has won two EquipmentWatch 2021 Highest Retained Value (HRV) Awards for Compact Track Loaders (model T770) and Small Skid-Steer Loaders (model S590). This is the sixth consecutive year that Bobcat has won an EquipmentWatch HRV Award. These are the only awards in the industry that leverage third-party, unbiased data to identify equipment that is projected to best hold its value over the next five years.
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Jarry Fiser, Loaders Product Line Director Doosan Bobcat EMEA, said: “We are honoured that our industry-leading equipment with its legacy of well over 60 years, is once again recognized for incredible durability, toughness and reliability, providing owners with unparalleled value for money and uptime. We are also delighted to win awards in two different categories - they are a testament to our commitment to customers, and recognition of the significant work hours and value owners receive from their trusted Bobcat equipment. The Bobcat compact loader range continues to be the market leader - once you have owned a Bobcat machine, there is no reason to make a 82 |
Farming Monthly | August 2021
change.” EquipmentWatch HRV Awards The EquipmentWatch Awards are based on an extensive analysis of data records, which determines residual values calculated according to market depreciation standards. The HRV Award winners represent product class
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| Machinery categories within equipment types projected to retain the highest percentage of original value after a fiveyear period. Using the Fair Market and Forced Liquidation Values contained in the EquipmentWatch Values product, analysts examine year-over-year depreciation for more than 12000 models with up to 30 model years of values. Using a proprietary algorithm, EquipmentWatch is able to predict residual values up to 84 months into the future. Award Categories The EquipmentWatch HRV Awards cover 30 categories across construction, lift/ access and agricultural equipment. The categories capture the most popular types of equipment based on annual observed market activity. For more information about Bobcat and Bobcat products, visit the website www.bobcat.com
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ed@tractortuninguk.co.uk www.tractortuninguk.co.uk August 2021 | Farming Monthly | 83
| Machinery
Complete new TRION combine range designed to ‘Fit your Farm’ ith the introduction of the new TRION range of combines, CLAAS has completed the final stage in the total replacement of its combine range, which started with the introduction of the new generation LEXION 8000/7000 combines in 2019.
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The TRION is a completely new range of combines, with a total of 20 models available including not only conventional 5- and 6-straw walker machines, but also single and twin rotor hybrids, plus the availability TERRA TRAC and MONTANA hillside versions. The wide range of farms, crops and climates in which CLAAS combines work around the world, mean that combines of this size have to be versatile. This is reflected in the extensive range of variants, features and options to ensure that the new TRION provides customers, whether 84 |
Farming Monthly | August 2021
they be a small mixed arable farm looking for a simple, straightforward machine or a large arable unit looking for a more technically advanced combine to maximise output, with a TRION model that can be specified to truly ‘Fit your Farm’.
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The massive separation area for high-capacity threshing
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JET STREAM standard across all models
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New British-built Cummins engines that provide optimum power for the size of combine
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Wide availability of wheeled, tracked TERRA TRAC and MONTANA hillside models
Several key new features within the TRION set it apart:
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A new design of CLAAS cab that brings higher cab comfort standards
The extensive range of 20 models available
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Tank capacities that set a new standard for this size of combine
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Extensive range of chopping options
While at its heart the new TRION relies on well proven CLAAS straw-walker and HYBRID threshing technology, it also incorporates many features that set completely new performance standards on combines of this size.
The range of threshing systems available: straw walker, single rotor HYBRID and twin-rotor HYBRID
Extensive model range
www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
| Machinery Within the 20 models available, the base TRION range comprises of two 500-range 5-straw walker models, three 600 range 6-straw walker models, including the TRION 640 which provides a new entry point into the 6-straw walker market, and three 700-range HYBRID models, of which two have a single rotor and one has twin rotors. Common to all TRION models is the well-proven APS primary threshing system designed to thresh out up to 90% of grains, leaving just the harder to thresh grains for the secondary separation system. For greater throughput capacity, TRION 500 and 700 range machines are fitted with a 1,420mm wide threshing system, increasing to 1,700mm for TRION 600 models. These are wider than on previous TUCANO models, which were either 1,320mm or 1,580mm wide. For the TRION, the APS system comprises of a 450mm diameter accelerator and a 600mm diameter closed threshing drum, which again is some 33% larger than the threshing drum on the TUCANO. As a result, the concave area is also greater, with the concave on TRION 600 models being 31% larger than on the TUCANO 450, and the concave on TRION 700 models 9% bigger than on the TUCANO 580. The front concaves are interchangeable and the speed of all three drums is synchronised and adjusted using CEBIS, which is also used for adjusting the concaves, which are also synchronised. To keep maintenance downtime to a minimum, the completely redesigned and less complex drive system for the TRION means that there are now six less belts on HYBRID models and three less on straw walker machines compared to the previous TUCANO range. As on the new LEXION, the drive system is based on that used in the JAGUAR which ensures a more positive, smooth engagement of the threshing and auger systems. Secondary separation All 5- and 6-straw walker TRION 500 and 600 models come as standard with the well proven CLAAS Multifinger Separation System (MSS) which evenly fluffs the straw for greater separation efficiency, especially in difficult conditions. The straw walkers use an open walker design and are 4.4m long with four steps. The total separation area for TRION 500 models is 6.25m2 rising to 7.48m2 for the TRION 600, which is a considerable increase on the TUCANO and the largest of any combines of this size on the market. TRION 730/720 HYBRID models come with a single 4.2m long and 570mm diameter rotor with 6 grates, while the larger TRION 750 has twin 4.2m long and 445mm diameter rotors with 5 grates. A new feature for combines this size is the hydraulic adjustment of four rotor flap ‘bomb doors’ and rotor speed is infinitely adjusted independently of the APS system using CEBIS.
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Another new feature on CLAAS combines of this size is the extremely efficient JET STREAM cleaning system using six or eight turbine fans, meaning this is now used across the complete CLAAS range.
the cutterbar. Features include new seats that can swivel 30 degrees each way and footrests to ensure a comfortable seating position.
TRION 600/500 models have the option of 3D sieves with 4D sieves also available on TRION 700 models. Other options also include AUTO SLOPE fan speed adjustment, CRUISE PILOT, AUTO CROP FLOW and either CEMOS DIALOG or full CEMOS AUTOMATIC.
The 12-inch CEBIS touchscreen colour monitor is easily adjusted independently of the armrest. As previously, in addition to using the CEBIS touchscreen, all the main combine functions can also be activated using buttons on the armrest. The CEBIS terminal also now accommodates the controls for CEMOS DIALOG and CEMOS AUTOMATIC when fitted.
Cummins engine power Power for the TRION range comes from British built 8.9 or 6.7 litre Cummins 6cylinder Stage V standard engines. These have been chosen not only on account of the optimum range of power outputs for across the whole TRION range, but also due to their ideal weight, the level of engine technology they provided, the fact that they are an ideal size for the combine and their layout means that they are easy to access and maintain. As standard, all TRION models come with DYNAMIC POWER, which by reducing engine power output when not under load, for instance when not running the chopper or unloading, can cut fuel costs by around 10%. The rated engine speed is just 1,900rpm dropping to 1,650 for road travel, so further helping to save fuel.
Four automatic steering systems are available for the TRION: LASER PILOT on the cutterbar, the cab mounted FIELD SCANNER, AUTO PILOT on maize headers or the satellite-based GPS PILOT, which is controlled using the new CEMIS 1200 terminal.
High-capacity tanks High capacity combines need high capacity tanks, and here again the TRION sets a new standard for this size of combine. Tank sizes range for 8,000 litres on the TRION 520 up to a classleading 12,000 litres on the TRION 750. The unloading auger swings through 105 degrees for easy visibility and unloading rates range from 90 to 130 litres/second. A new option is the availability of a pivoting spout, controlled using the CMOTION control lever. Being able to adjust the throw of grain from the spout will be particularly useful when working on side-hills or with deeper trailers.
Extended TERRA TRAC and MONTANA models No two farms are the same and topography can vary considerably. To accommodate this an unprecedented six TRION models are available with either TERRA TRAC crawler tracks or MONTANA hillside compensation.
Widespread chopping options
As farmers pay more attention to the care of their soils, to meet customer demand for tracks on smaller combines, TERRA TRAC is now available on the 5straw walker TRION 530, making this the first CLAAS combine this size to have this option. The TERRA TRAC system used for the TRION is similar to the 3rd generation TERRA TRAC system on the LEXION, with full suspension and a road speed of 30kph. The TRION 530 is also the start point for versions with MONTANA hillside slope compensation, which again has been extended to more models than previously. Buyers can opt for having just lateral slope compensation of up to 18%, or for both lateral and longitudinal compensation of up to 6% when the optional MULTI CONTOUR is ordered. POWER TRAC all-wheel drive is also an option on all MONTANA models.
Turning to the back of the combine, again there is a wide selection of strawchopper options to meet every need, from a standard mechanically controlled chopper through to the advanced electronically controlled radial power spreader chopping system with deflectors for wind compensation. In addition to the STANDARD CUT chopping unit, which on narrow-body TRION 700 and 400 models has 52 knives and 64 knives on the TRION 600, there is the option of the SPECIAL CUT chopper with 72 or 88 knives respectively. Cutterbar options The new TRION can be used with the full range of CERIO or the new VARIO range of auger type cutterbars, plus the CONVIO and CONVIO FLEX draper type cutterbars, in widths up to 12 metres.
Latest in cab design Greater operator comfort is ensured in the new design of cab that is fitted to the TRION range. Its spacious design has both more leg and head room. The larger windscreen and narrower A-pillars give the operator excellent visibility over
As standard, the TRION comes with automatic cutterbar detection, so will always know what cutterbar is fitted and the setting previously used.
August 2021 | Farming Monthly | 85
| ATV
Kawasaki announce complete 2022 MULE and ATV line-up he 2022 utility range will feature the popular Kawasaki MULE Pro-DX, Mule Pro-DXT, Mule SX 4x4, and Pro-MX vehicles. Also included in the range is the BRUTE FORCE 4x4i EPS ATV, which will be available in two colours.
T
The MULE Pro-DX and MULE Pro-DXT remain the flagship vehicles in the range, with both machines retaining their current specification for 2022. At the core of each machine lays a 3cylinder, OHV water-cooled, 993cm3 Bosch fuel injected diesel engine; a feature of particular interest to multivehicle users pursuing a “single fuel” policy. Driving through a dual range CVT, both vehicles offer selectable 2WD and 4WD delivering 17.8 kW @
For more information
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Farming Monthly | August 2021
3600rpm and 52.1 Nm (5.3 kgfïm) of maximum torque at 2,400rpm.
helps to push the range into new customer bases, thanks to the additional ability to move work crews into difficult or environmentally sensitive locations with minimal impact. Featuring such user-friendly features as tilt adjustable steering wheels and speed sensitive electronic power steering plus front and rear independent suspension, both these sturdy vehicles certainly make light of heavy work and leave their operators fresh at the end of each demanding day.
For the MULE Pro-DX, a spacious tipping load bed and impressive towing ability mean that almost no task is too big to ask of it. The MULE Pro-DXT
•
The entry-level MULE range will again be comprised of the MULE SX 4x4 and Pro-MX. Both models offer outstanding value for money and boast selectable 2WD and 4WD with Hi-Lo dual-range transfer case and a rear differential lock.
Southam Agri. Services Southam, Warwickshire CV47 2DH 01926 813426 http://southamagri.co.uk
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| ATV strut front suspension, the SX faithfully delivers all day, every day.
default option when value, reliability and rugged build quality are required.
Its range partner, the MULE Pro-MX cuts a real dash, not simply due to its sprightly turn of speed but, equally, an
Completing the 2022 range is the 749cm3 Brute Force ATV models. Featuring the powerful 37.3 kW {51 PS} @ 6,750 rpm water-cooled fuel-injected V-Twin engines, a 4x4 drive train and Electronic Power Steering (EPS), the ATVs will be available in Super Black or Camouflage Real Tree Xtra Green. The variable speed EPS, carefully considered ergonomics and vast spread of smooth all-conquering power make the Brute Force a logical number one choice when rugged power combined with a small vehicle footprint are required.
The MULE SX 4x4 relies on a sturdy and ultra-reliable OHV 410cm3 petrol engine delivering 9.9kW (13.5 PS) of motive power.
The 2022 range will be available from August and will cost:
automotive styling approach redolent of a sturdy pickup truck. The singlecylinder CVT transmission equipped 695cm3 engine delivers 32.8kW (45 PS) for year-round working in even the harshest conditions with the added benefit of electronic power steering as standard fitment.
Its 500kg towing capacity and 181kg load bed maximum are more than enough for many users while such “creature comforts” as a tilting steering wheel and Independent MacPherson
With disc brakes both front and rear plus the luxury of double wishbone suspension at both ends, the MULE Pro-MX is both work and price friendly. Offered in traditional Kawasaki Timberline Green, the MULE SX 4x4 and MULE Pro-MX are, for many, the
•
MULE Pro-DXT - £14,845
•
MULE Pro-DX - £12,549
•
MULE SX 4x4 - £7,354
•
MULE Pro-MX - £9,254
•
Brute Force 750 4x4i EPS - £7,829
•
Brute Force 750 4x4i EPS Camo £8,129
For more information and to contact your local Kawasaki dealer, please visit www.kawasaki.co.uk
The MULE SX 4x4 rides on 24 inch tyres and offers selectable 2WD and 4WD with Hi-Lo dual-range transfer case and rear differential lock. Kawasaki PRO styling, tilting steering wheel and the dependable OHV 410cc engine, 181kg load and 500kg towing capacity make this a true GoAnywhere vehicle.
FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO FIND YOUR LOCAL DEALER VISIT WWW.KAWASAKI.CO.UK
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August 2021 | Farming Monthly | 87
| ATV
Customise the new RZR Trail S 1000 Platform with Polaris accessories T
he brand-new RZR Trail S 1000 made its debut this year. Optimised for next level performance at just 60-inches wide, the RZR Trail S 1000 can now be customised with new Polaris trail accessories.
• Dario Baraggia, PG&A Manager at Polaris OffRoad Vehicles EMEA, said, “Our Polaris genuine accessories are designed and developed alongside the production of the vehicle itself, by the same engineers. This way, we can ensure it’s a seamless fit, everytime. Not only that, but our Polaris Lock & Ride system means that installation has never been more straightforward.”
Polaris Poly Sport Roof The Poly Sport roof offers protection from everything that the trail may throw at you. It has a lightweight, textured polyethylene construction with a rigid-injection moulded design to eliminate warping in high heat conditions. It has also been designed with Polaris' revolutionary Lock & Ride functionality for easy fitment in a matter of minutes, without the need for any tools. Polaris Half Windshield - Hard Coat Poly A half windshield is great for those hotter days when riders want that open air feeling whilst maintaining clear vision and minimising dust flow. It also helps to direct the air just over the head so riders feel more protected from the elements. The Polaris Engineered half windshield is fully sealed, strong, durable, and impact-resistant, and is also fitted with Polaris' Lock and Ride functionality for easy changeability between seasons.
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570
Private agricultural land.
Polaris Front High Coverage Bumper With it's high and tubular steel build, the front high coverage bumper provides the latest in protection and style for the RZR. It offers both impact protection and easy installation directly to factory mounts to create a seamless look. Polaris' Front High Coverage Bumper is available in both red and block colour ways. Pro Armor Combo Light Bar With all around versatility, the Pro Armor Combo light bar is great for trail terrain. The light bar has a combination of flood and spot optics reaching a maximum distance of 500-metres, meaning that it is ideal for all around distance visibility at high speeds. It can be mounted on all mounting points of the RZR Trail S 1000. Rockford Fosgate Stage 1 PMX Audio Kit Turn up the music with the Stage 1 PMX Audio Kit by Rockford Fosgate. The audio kit comes prepackaged with all the necessary hardware including one Stage 1 PMX Audio Kit and two front 6.5" coaxial speakers and enclosures. With a 2.7" full colour display, AM/FM/WB tuner and antenna, as well as Bluetooth connectivity, riders can listen to whatever they desire whilst out on the trails. The Stage 1 PMX Audio kit is compatible with Rear Pods.
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Polaris Pro HD 4,500 LB Winch with Rapid Rope Recovery With new rapid rope technology, riders can now recover open cable up to five times faster than the standard speed with the Polaris Pro HD 4,500lb Winch. The new winch is designed with both standard pulling mode and high-speed recovery as well as Auto Stop Technology at completion for added protection. The winch comes with both a wired and wireless remote as standard, depending on rider preference, and it mounts in a designated location, perfect for the most adventurous rides. For prices and availability in your area, please contact your local Polaris dealer.
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TWO YEAR
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www.polarisbritain.com 0330 041 5141
August 2021 | Farming Monthly | 89
| ATV
What’s on your UTV ‘wants’ list? alancing loads on front and rear racks, sitting astride a saddle, having no room for a passenger and being fully exposed to the elements – while the ordinary ATV also has its benefits, there are plenty of downsides to the ‘quad bike’ design. So the side-by-side utility vehicle (UTV) alternative, with its full load bed, conventional seating for more than just the driver, and either cab frame or full cab, offers many advantages. But with a number of machines on the market from which to choose, selecting the right UTV for farm use can be a difficult task. Separating out the models with design features clearly built to withstand the rigours of agriculture is a worthwhile exercise.
B
A diesel engine that offers both power and economy is a given on most lists of ‘wants’, saving trips to the fuel station for petrol and providing the torque needed to climb hills and clamber over tough going. With Kioti’s K9, the successor to the popular Mechron, a three-cylinder powerplant, built by the same manufacturer as the machine itself, provides efficiency and energy in equal measure, along with the reliability for which South Korean engineering has become synonymous. Minimal fuel
stops are another prerequisite for any agricultural vehicle, and with 37 litres of diesel capacity, the K9 is capable of long days without refuelling. Surefooted traction and a decent turn of speed with a comfortable ride are also on the agricultural ‘wants’ list, and the K9 meets the bill here with a twin-range CVT transmission that provides smooth take-off and slow-down. There is also quickly-selectable 2/4wd and a locking rear diff, plus a helical spring/stabiliser arm suspension arrangement that cushions the driver/passengers and the load in rough going. And for smoother terrain, the K9’s top speed is a rapid 40km/hr (25mph). A UTV engine also needs to provide the guts to shift a full payload with ease, and the K9 doesn’t disappoint here. The 1.0-litre powerplant produces 24hp, more than enough to shift the machine’s 0.5-tonne load capacity with ease, meaning it is competent and capable of handling typical agricultural loads of fencing stakes, spare parts, slug pellet bags and more. A urethane coating ensures long-term bed protection, while options include hydraulic tipping – mechanical tipping is standard. For additional items there’s an optional storage box under the hood.
Of course, one of the most important features of a UTV is its ability to carry more than one person legally, safely and in comfort. The Kioti K9 features two full seats with an optional smaller mid-seat, all with safety belts. A full rollover frame with roof is standard, while options include a windscreen, half-doors and, for maximum weather protection, a full cab package with heating. Full road lighting and mirrors are standard, as is front bull-bar protection to guard against the knocks and scrapes that are unavoidable in agriculture. A vehicle aimed at satisfying the demands of agricultural buyers needs to be universal in what it can carry, and to this end the K9 is available with a wide
Think carefully about what’s on your ‘wants’ list before choosing a UTV, suggests Kioti. 90 |
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| ATV
range of rear fitments, such as a galvanised livestock canopy ideal for transporting lambs. There are also hitch hooks at both the rear and the front of the machine, making it possible to not only pull a variety of trailed implements, but also manoeuvre equipment around the yard. Meanwhile, on the options list is an external hydraulic outlet, for even greater versatility – powering a tipping trailer, for example. The K9 has a maximum towing load of 590kg, helping to more than double its carrying capacity.
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Stability and manoeuvrability are also essential factors for an agriculturallytargeted UTV. With a width of 1,590mm, the K9 can squeeze through tight door-, passage- and gateways, while ground clearance of 304mm ensures it rides over rough terrain with ease. For all their uses off-road, UTVs are often also called upon to travel on the road between tasks in different fields, and for this, of course, road homologation is a must. With the Kioti K9, that’s not an issue, as the machine
is fully homologated for road use. And like every machine on the farm, reliability is critical to ensure uninterrupted work. Kioti UK, which recently moved to brand new premises in a central and accessible location close to Huntingdon, and has a dealer network of more than 80 outlets, now provides a full two years’ warranty for the K9, with unlimited hours. Along with a specification that more than matches agricultural needs, that’s another factor in favour of the K9 on many farmers’ UTV ‘wants’ lists.
August 2021 | Farming Monthly05/06/2019 | 91
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| ATV
Honda Pioneer S
uffolk-based contract shepherds who selected a Honda Pioneer 700 UTV to replace a similar type of vehicle of another brand are delighted with their decision.
Shepherd, Cameron Farnan and apprentice shepherd, George Costello are employed by Robert Spink who trades as Dunhill Farm Ltd. They manage a flock of 1,000 New Zealand Romney breeding ewes, plus 250 replacements and up to 1,600 lambs owned by John Pawsey who trades as Shimpling Park Farm at Shimpling, near Bury St Edmunds. John’s farm has been totally organic since 1999. The sheep graze on one-year leys of Red Clover drilled as companion crops alongside cereals on land which is contract farmed, and on two-year leys of White Clover and grass mixes on John’s 92 |
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own farm at Shimpling. All-year transport
The sheep enterprise is low input, and they live outside throughout the year. Soils are mainly heavy, so avoiding travel by heavy vehicles when the ground is wet and susceptible to damage is essential, and a side-by-side, load-carrying UTV with low ground pressure tyres is used. Two years ago, a new diesel-powered UTV was purchased. “The UTV we had previously struggled with the workload, so we replaced it with a premium brand model, with extra carrying capacity and a more powerful engine,” explained Cameron. “The previous model was ok at first, but when conditions became wet it struggled on rutted tracks, and the steering linkage and wheel bearings weren’t adequately protected from mud and dust so needed frequent
replacement. Back-up from the dealer was good, but we saw far too much of the service team and the running costs were unacceptably high.” When the diesel UTV was due for updating earlier this year, the decision was made to replace it with a different brand. “Having been impressed by the reliability and performance of Honda ATVs used for several years by Robert Spink on his own enterprise, it made sense to consider the Honda Pioneer 700 UTV for our location,” said George. “Honda ATVs always start - they are powerful but economical, and ideal for shepherding. However, almost all the work at Shimpling requires two people especially during lambing, so a vehicle with two seats is needed to allow us to travel safely. We requested a demonstration from our local main dealer MKM Agriculture Ltd, while also looking at several other brands.”
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| ATV
Smooth, powerful petrol engine Unlike the previous diesel UTV, the Honda Pioneer has a powerful and smooth 675cc fuel-injected petrol engine and, instead of driving through chains and rubber belts which can slip and require frequent replacement, the Pioneer has a maintenance-free, mechanical torque converter transmission driving through shafts to the wheels, as well as more ground clearance. “As soon as we tried the Pioneer we
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noticed the extra performance and pulling power,” commented Cameron. “It handled rutted tracks with ease, and the suspension was excellent and gave a comfortable ride. It was more compact than the diesel UTV and much more manoeuvrable and, although the price was competitive, nothing else we looked at seemed as well suited to our situation so we placed an order.”
carrying up to 386kg, and a towing capacity up to 680kg arrived in late May. It quickly proved ideal for the shepherds, and its main tasks have included transporting people and equipment between sites, pulling an electric fencing trailer, livestock checking, towing the trailer-mounted stock handling and weighing system, and herding sheep in the field. In its first two months it worked almost 200 hours.
Proved ideal The Honda Pioneer 700-2 with two seats, a tipping rear load bed capable of
“We bought a Honda half-cab which provides weather protection but allows us to get in and out easily,” explained
August 2021 | Farming Monthly | 93
| ATV Cameron. “The full-width bench seat is spacious and comfortable, and two people can travel in comfort. We usually carry heavy loads on a trailer rather than in the load bed, but it’s handy having space at the back to transport feed supplements and equipment. “The Pioneer carries up to nine buckets of organic feed supplements which we feed to our multiple bearing ewes whereas, despite being much larger, the previous machine carried only three more. There is little difference in practical carrying capacity.” Practical and economical George said the Pioneer is easier to look after than its predecessor. The cab floor is flat and easily brushed out, and there are few places for mud to accumulate around the engine and transmission. Access for checking the engine oil and refuelling is described as excellent. Fuel consumption averages approximately 20 litres per week – similar to the previous diesel UTV, although the Pioneer is quicker with more power. “Fuel use is very reasonable for the work that it does, and we prefer the petrol engine,” explained Cameron. “Obviously filling the diesel machine from the farm tank was more convenient than having to remember to fill cans at the garage, but it’s not a problem.” Back-up from MKM has also been very good including carrying out the first service, and Cameron said that if breakdowns do occur then he is confident that the dealer’s service team will return the Pioneer to work quickly, or provide a loan machine. “We depend on it for almost all of our on-farm transport. Using heavier vehicles such as tractors in the field isn’t an option because they would do too much damage, especially in the winter. We could use conventional ATVs but then two machines would be needed to transport two people safely. The Pioneer is a more efficient option and it’s also more sociable. Like many farm workers we spend a lot of time on
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our own, so any time we spend travelling together is an advantage.” Pleased with decision “We are very pleased with our decision to replace the diesel UTV with the Honda Pioneer 700-2. It is well built and
extremely rugged, but it’s easy to ride and extremely capable. Our previous experience of Honda ATVs has been excellent, and we believe that the Pioneer will prove just as good,” Cameron concluded.
www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
| ATV
Two new dealers for Corvus 4x4
orvus 4x4 off-road utility vehicle specialists BOSS ORV have announced the appointment of two new dealers. Laird Grass Machinery has become the first Corvus dealer for Northern Ireland and Brassington Agri, near Bridgenorth, is the new dealer for the Shropshire area. Laird, which is situated in Ballycarry, Carrickfergus, contacted
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Corvus following a conversation with Scottish dealers, Ravenhill, and were sent a Terrain Diesel 4x4 utility as a trial vehicle. No sooner had it arrived than a customer wanted to buy it. Laird chose the Terrain for being rugged and wellbuilt for agricultural use with good ground clearance. It also benefits from
being classed as a Stage V emission compliant homologated Diesel tractor, and therefore suitable for on-road use. It is ideally suited as well, say Laird, to their public authorities and council market. Phil Everett, Managing Director at Boss, who made the announcement on LinkedIn, said,
customers’ needs and are therefore an ideal fit as a Corvus dealer. Welcome to both dealers to the Corvus family”
“A big Corvus welcome to David Laird and the team. With their vast experience in the UTV market, combined with the exceptional all-round ability of the latest Corvus Terrain range of UTVs, it’s bound to be a winning combination.” Duncan Brassington Agri Sales and Service was established in 2014 in the heart of Shropshire by Duncan Brassington, who has over thirty years’ experience of all aspects of agricultural machinery. Brassingtons provide servicing and repair for tractors and agricultural machinery together with sales of new and good quality tractors, farm machinery and equipment. They will be selling and supporting the TerrainDX4 EPS, TerrainDX4 PRO EPS and TerrainDX4 CAB EPS. “A big welcome to Duncan and the team,” says Phil, “they base their business on 100% commitment to their
All the above mentioned Terrain models are homologated as a T1a and T1b diesel tractor and have a top speed of 40mph/65kp/h. Corvus is building the Terrain for work primarily in agriculture, livestock, forestry, turf care and construction but they are highly adaptable vehicles ready for any demanding off-road workout. For more information about the Corvus Terrain range you can call 01597 810188; www.bossorv.co.uk E-mail: sales@bossorv.co.uk
Off-Road Electric boosts offering with ground-breaking electric tractor or the UK’s first all-electric dealer of off-road utility vehicles, it was no surprise that Off-Road Electric, Kidlington, Oxfordshire, opted to stock the Farmtrac FT25G, the agricultural industry’s first fully-electric tractor.
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After hearing about the groundbreaking tractor on popular electric-centric YouTube channel ‘Fully Charged’, OffRoad Electric owner Marc Monsarrat was straight in touch with Reesink Agriculture, Farmtrac’s distributor, to arrange a demo. Marc comments: “We were already stocking electric quad bikes, buggies and converting Land Rovers into electric vehicles, so I knew instantly that an electric tractor would be a perfect fit. Particularly as a number of our clients were smallholders with a passion for going green. “The Farmtrac FT25G is a serious machine. We only sell sturdy off-road vehicles – not gimmicky electric toys – and this is a proper workhorse utility vehicle. After having a demo I was impressed by its robustness and quality. Plus, by being relatively slimline I knew the FT25G would appeal to both large and small landowners looking for a nimble machine to add to their fleet.” www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
With an excellent understanding of the growing appetite for electric utility vehicles, Marc felt that the FT25G tapped into the zeitgeist of the moment, especially as a growing number of estates were looking to reduce or eliminate petrol from their operations.
vehicles. They’ve been totally committed and we have a great relationship.”
Marc comments: “The pandemic has taught many in the agricultural sector to do things differently. I speak to a growing number of customers who are looking to shed carbon and gradually move towards doing everything electrically. “Some customers were already using electric quad bikes but also wanted a PTO to run mowing attachments completely electrically. The FT25G is the missing piece of the puzzle for ecofriendly farmers and estates seeking to mow or till the land with zero emissions.” Craig Bradshaw and Steven Haynes from Reesink Agriculture are credited with having played an integral role in the success of the relationship. Marc continues: “Part of the decision to stock Farmtrac was down to the service provided by Craig and Steven. They were really approachable and supportive from the off. They were open to a new kind of relationship, bearing in mind we were a new business and focusing exclusively on electric off-road
Craig Bradshaw, Reesink Agriculutre’s UK area sales manager for the Farmtrac tractor brand, comments: “It’s been a pleasure working with Marc and his progressive business. It was instantly apparent that the Farmtrac FT25G was going to be the right fit for his offering and we support him in his endeavours to promote the benefits of going green.” Marc concludes by expressing his enthusiasm for the potential of FT25G: “The Farmtrac electric tractor has sparked such interest. We’ve sold one to date with more stock on order due to the number of enquiries we are receiving. There’s enormous potential for the product so I’m thrilled to be stocking it.” To talk to someone about Farmtrac tractors or becoming a Farmtrac dealer, call 01480 226800, email info@reesinkagriculture.co.uk or check online at reesinkagriculture.co.uk.
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| Motors
Ford Ranger and Transit Custom Take Top Honours at the 2021 Auto Express Awards
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ord’s best-ever commercial vehicle line-up has continued its success story into 2021, winning a series of new awards.
Ford Ranger named Pick up of the Year at the 2021 Auto Express Awards
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Transit Custom – the UK’s bestselling vehicle – named Van of the Year 2021
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Van Fleet World also awards Transit Custom Van of the Year title and Ford as Manufacturer of the Year
Auto Express has named the Ford Ranger “Pick Up of the Year” at the Auto Express Awards for the third consecutive year, while Transit Custom
takes the honour of Van of the Year. “It’s the UK’s best-selling truck, and with good reason” said Steve Fowler, Editorin-chief, Auto Express. “There are a huge variety of models on offer, from the work-focused to the high-spec lifestyle models that can easily double as family transport for the business user. It’s more SUV-like than ever but is still capable of taking on the everyday grind, which is why it’s still our favourite truck.” The Ford Ranger line up will expand further this year with the introduction of three new, limited edition models – Wolftrak, Stormtrak and Raptor Special Edition. These join the new MS-RT Ranger and the established XL, XLT, Limited and Wildtrak series. Ranger accounts for 40 per cent market
share of the UK’s pick-up segment in 2021 year-to-date, and one in three pick-ups sold in across Europe. Meanwhile, the Ford Transit Custom the UK’s best-selling vehicle for 2021 year-to-date – has also been crowned Van of the Year by Auto Express. “Vans have helped to keep the country moving in the past 18 months, and the Transit Custom is the best in the business” said Steve Fowler, Editor-inChief, Auto Express. “Whether you go for the basic steel-wheeled, blackbumpered Leader, choose the rugged Trail and Active variants, or the highspec Sport and MS-RT versions, it really is the van that can.” Mandy Dean, commercial vehicle director, Ford of Britain, said: “We’re delighted that Auto Express recognises the hard work our teams put into engineering and building our vehicles, and these great awards are testament to that dedication. Our mantra is making our customers’ businesses thrive, so in part these awards also recognise all those hard-working businesses that depend on Ford commercial vehicles for their success.” These awards follow recognition from Van Fleet World, which not only awarded Transit Custom Medium Van of the year, but also named Ford Van Manufacturer of the Year. Additionally, Fleet News yesterday named Ford Van Fleet Manufacturer of the Year, voted for by its readers. Transit remains the UK’s best-selling commercial vehicle - a title it has held for 56 years. The full Transit range and Ford commercial vehicle line up will be on display at this year’s CV Show, including the public debut of the new ETransit.
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| Motors
Jeep® Reveals First Images of All-new 2022 Electrified Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe
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uring Stellantis EV Day 2021, the Jeep® brand revealed the first images of its all-new 2022 Jeep® Grand Cherokee 4xe plug-in hybrid.
The fifth generation of the Grand Cherokee, which over the past 30 years has become the most awarded SUV in history, earning countless industry accolades and achieving more than 7 million in global sales, will be officially unveiled at the 2021 New York International Auto Show and will include the full range of the Grand Cherokee lineup. The introduction of the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe is another step toward expanding electrification and strengthening the Jeep brand’s vision of “Zero Emission, 100% Freedom” in a year in which the Jeep brand celebrates 80 years of achievements and innovations.
www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
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| Motors
Toyota Highlander – It’s here and it’s rather good…
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he model as tested was the Highlander Excel 2.5 Petrol Hybrid with an intelligent AWD system giving you an added boost from a standstill, under acceleration and in slippery conditions. With a maximum power output of 245bhp the Highlander can stretch its long legs to 62mph in a shade just over 8 seconds, which considering this is a true 7 seater and packed with gadgets is very impressive. The ride is effortless and at your destination, you feel invigorated and ready for what the day has in store. This can be attributed to all the increased sound deadening that's been used,
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including acoustic glass for the windscreen and front windows, silencers in the roof, dashboard and floor and liners to the wheel arches and load space, although with all this added quietness listening to your passengers without raised voices might be a novelty at first. The Highlander has a towing capacity of 2 tons, which is fairly respectable and definitely a worthy addition to its vast array of capabilities. With a choice of Eco, Normal, Sport or Trail there really is very little that can get in your way. Triple Zone air conditioning, Sky view Panoramic Sunroof, Heated and Ventilated seats, plus a heated steering wheel, 8 inch screen with Nav, USB and
HDMI sockets & ports front and rear, a Smartphone charger and connections to your preferred music to make use of the 11 speaker JBL system the Highlander comes literally bursting with tech. Despite looking like the size of a small Shed the Highlander accommodates a full load with ease and yet remains so very easy to drive and manoeuvre in both Rural and Urban areas and the clever folk at Toyota have increased airflow and thus reduced drag. Selfclosing air-cooling vents, flat underside and aero-ventilating alloy wheels provide brake cooling and added aerodynamic performance are just some of the ways efficiencies have been made.
www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
| Motors
Toyota Safety Sense active safety and driver assistance technologies are utilised in abundance to help mitigate collisions no matter what your driving style and location. Pedestrian detection is a must these days and the Emergency Steering Assist really gets
your attention and gives you a gentle tug of the wheel should you stray without indicating. The safety continues with Blind Spot and Cross Traffic Alerts, Hill Start Assist and Active Traction Control which are very much a necessity on both local and long distance runs and yet despite all this added automation the Highlander is still very much a drivers car, it's a family car with everything you could possibly need and it's a head turning talking point whether it's on your drive, down the farm track or on the school run, your kids mates want to be seen in it and your neighbours like to quiz you on the Hybrid range and is it easy to park? For day to day running it's a real pleasure, for a trip to the Market or the Garden Centre it's a safe place, an indoor picnic zone and a load lugger for all the Show cheese, Craft ales and Walking sticks you simply have to buy at a County Show.
Hybrid without compromise, if you want a car that you can see out of all the windows and that isn't shaped like an axes head then the Highlander is a perfect choice. Coming in with an on the road price of just over £50,000 is definitely not a budget buy, but it's most certainly worth its money and it will hold its residual value like a Doe Triple D. (Well perhaps not, but it will certainly earn its keep!) Pros: •
Appearance
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Quietness/Comfort
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Level of Safety and Driver Tech
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Nifty locking wheel nut holder and rear window blinds
Cons: •
Looks large at first
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Price (Although considering what it can do its value for money)
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Kids like to play with the rear window blinds!
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fuel consumption is from 39.2 to 39.7mpg, while CO2 emissions are 160 to 163g/km
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vibration, CO2 emissions Review written by: Chris Johnson
If you are after a www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
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| Motors
New-look Kodiaq ramps up the power: order books open for vRS model
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ricing and specification for ŠKODA’s top-of-the-range Kodiaq vRS has been confirmed. The ŠKODA Kodiaq has been reintroduced with a refreshed design and the vRS model has now been released for order with prices starting from £44,635 OTR, and a comprehensive equipment list that customers have come to expect from the brand’s performance flagship model. •
Order books open for facelifted Kodiaq vRS
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vRS derivative available exclusively with new TSI petrol engine that produces 245PS
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Sporty model sprints from 0-62mph in just 6.6 seconds
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Dynamic chassis control and Virtual cockpit fitted as standard
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ŠKODA’s most powerful SUV priced from £44,635 OTR
The revised Kodiaq vRS delivers more power and reduced weight for an even better performance. The latest EVO generation 2.0 TSI petrol engine has four-wheel drive as standard and seven-speed DSG gearbox that produces 245PS - a 6PS increase on its predecessor – and can sprint from 0-62mph in just 6.6 seconds. The sporty model’s styling is accentuated by the addition of 20” Sagitarius anthracite alloy wheels with distinctive red brake calipers, vRS bumpers, gloss black roof rails, grille and mirrors, dual exhaust pipes and full LED Matrix headlights as standard. Plush microsuede black vRS sport seats with contrast red stitching and vRS logo make a feature of the interior cabin along with a threespoke leather sports multifunction steering wheel and DSG paddles. Where Kodiaq dominates is the exceptional amount of space on offer. With an overall length of just under 4.7m, the versatile SUV can offer up to 2,005 litres of space with all rear seats down. Its seven-seater layout means that the entire family can travel with space to spare while its remarkably generous helping of
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standard equipment means that comfort and infotainment needs are met. Virtual cockpit is a standard feature in the revised vRS model, and offers a vRS-specific look as well as a Sports layout as an additional fifth display mode that places the rev counter and speedometer graphics in front of the driver. Kodiaq vRS is equipped with Dynamic chassis control as standard, which makes it possible for the driver to adapt the steering and suspension depending on whether the Comfort, Normal or Sport mode is selected. Dynamic sound booster and front parking sensors and rear-view camera are also standard fit. Order books are open for the facelifted Kodiaq vRS. For more information and images, please visit www.skodamedia.com. www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
| Motors
INEOS reveals Grenadier interior: ready for anything work and life throws at it
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he interior of the INEOS Grenadier is designed on purpose, to deliver the space, practicality and versatility owners need from a hard-working 4X4. Starting from a clean sheet, the design incorporates the modern technology and comfort expected of a vehicle for the 2020s and beyond.
“When we started thinking about the Grenadier’s interior, we looked carefully at modern aircraft, boats and even tractors for inspiration, where switches are sited for optimal function, regular controls are close to hand, auxiliary ones are further away,” said Toby Ecuyer, Head of Design. “You can see
the same approach in the Grenadier: the layout is functional and logical, designed with ease of use in mind. It has everything you need and nothing you don’t.”
support the addition of winches, work lights and other accessories.
Advanced technology is included only where it benefits functionality and usability. The infotainment system is accessed via a 12.3-inch touchscreen, or by using a rotary dial. The Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration means users can rely on smartphone navigation which will always be up to date. And the offroad pathfinder navigation system allows drivers to programme, follow and record their route via waypoints, when roads and tracks are left behind. With hard-wearing surface materials throughout, the Grenadier is designed to endure. Drain plugs in the rubber flooring and wipe-down upholstery mean the interior can be hosed out. Waterresistant anti-stain Recaro seats provide ergonomic support and comfort on or off the road. Carpets and leather upholstery will be available for those aiming to leave the mud and sand outside. Stowage space has been maximised, with a dry storage box under the rear seat, a lockable central console cubby box, and secure side-mounted storage in the rear load area. There is also scope for individualisation, with a wide range of interior options and accessories to help each owner customise the Grenadier to best perform its role. Dirk Heilmann, INEOS Automotive’s CEO, said: “Inside and out, the Grenadier has been designed to do a job - to get people and their kit where they want to go in comfort, in control and with no fuss. It just works.” 130 second-phase Grenadier prototypes are currently half-way through their target of 1.8 million kilometres of gruelling testing around the world. Next stage: the dunes of Morocco.
Toggle switches and dials on the centre and overhead consoles are widely spaced and clearly labelled. Auxiliary switches have been built in, pre-wired to www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
Reservations will open from October 2021 and deliveries will start from July 2022.
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| Motors
NEW CITROËN Ë-DISPATCH IS THE ELECTRIC VAN OF CHOICE FOR SURESERVE GROUP
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K-based compliance and energy services provider, Sureserve Group, has added 30, 100% electric Citroën ë-Dispatch vans to its LCV fleet. The new additions took to the roads in late June as part of Sureserve Group’s commitment to deliver environmentally sustainable services across their various operations. •
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Energy support services provider, Sureserve Group, has gone electric, with the addition of 30 allelectric Citroën ë-Dispatch vans to its LCV fleet. New ë-Dispatch fleet took to the roads in late June as part of Sureserve Group’s commitment to deliver environmentally sustainable services across all of its operations.
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Citroën ë-Dispatch was chosen for its environmental credentials, as well as potential cost savings resulting from fewer moving parts and reduced requirements for servicing, maintenance and repairs.
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Citroën’s 100% electric mid-size ëDispatch van is capable of classleading range of between 143 and 205 miles (WLTP, dependent on
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battery size), offering fleet operators exceptionally low whole life costs. Sureserve Group placed orders for Citroën ë-Dispatch Enterprise vans with Medium ‘M’ body length and the larger 75kWh battery, to meet their varied requirements. Duties undertaken by the 100% electric vehicles include serving customers in the social housing, public buildings and education markets across the UK. Sureserve Group’s decision to add Citroën ë-Dispatch to its fleet follows a host of other institutions taking the same step, including Varitech Systems and Falkirk Council. These organisations have very different needs and requirements, but are united by their drive to reduce the environmental impact of their day-to-day services and to reduce operating costs. Available with a choice of two battery sizes, Citroën ë-Dispatch is capable of up to 143 miles (WLTP) with the 50kWh battery option, or up to 205 miles (WLTP) with the larger 75kWh battery pack. New ë-Dispatch can easily be charged at home or on site through a 7kW wallbox, or via a super-fast public charging station at speeds of up to 100kW that can re-charge the battery to 80% of capacity in just 30 or 45
minutes, for 50kWh and 75kWh versions respectively. New ë-Dispatch also provides operators with an optimum level of carrying capacity and payload. The battery has been positioned under the floor of the vehicle to maintain maximum load space, providing up to 6.6m3 of load volume and a payload of up to 1,002kg. Thanks to the electric motor, drivers can now enjoy zero emissions as well as a more serene driving experience for more relaxing journeys. Available in a choice of three trim levels (‘X’, ‘Enterprise’ and ‘Driver’), three lengths (‘XS’, ‘M’ and ‘XL’), and two battery sizes (50kWh and 75kWh), there is a Citroën ë-Dispatch van to suit every need. Dean Williams, Group Fleet Manager at Sureserve Group, commented: “We have always sought to manage our fleet of commercial and company vehicles to the most efficient standards available, and the addition of 30 new Citroën ë-Dispatch vans will start the next stage in our journey towards a greener and more economical fleet, with further additions planned in the future. As well as the environmental value in using zero emissions vehicles, we are encouraged by the potential cost savings, and with fewer moving parts, less requirements for servicing, maintenance and repairs.”
www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
| Motors
VAUXHALL VIVARO-E WINS ELECTRIC VAN OF THE YEAR AT AUTO EXPRESS AWARDS
auxhall’s all-electric Vivaroe has been named ‘Electric Van of the Year’ by Auto Express at its New Car Awards 2021 ceremony. The award marks another win for the Vivaro-e this year, as the 100% electric van continues to impress both industry experts and customers.
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following on from its stream of award wins recently. It was named ‘Van of the Year’ and ‘EV Van of the Year’ by Van Fleet World, as well as What Car?’s Van of the Year. The Vivaro-e also won the ‘Best Electrified Commercial Vehicle’ category at the Driving Electric awards, and won the highly coveted International Van of the Year title last year.
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New Vivaro-e named Electric Van of The Year at Auto Express Awards 2021
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Latest award of numerous top awards for all-electric Vauxhall Vivaro-e
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Electric Vivaro-e capable of 205 miles from a single charge (WLTP)
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Vauxhall is now one of few UK brands able to offer a fully electric LCV line-up
Steve Fowler, Editor-in-Chief, Auto Express, said: “Electrification is big news in the van market, which is why we’ve created this new category. The Vauxhall Vivaro-e is a worthy first winner, because it helps to banish concerns about range anxiety. Power comes from a 134PS electric motor, fed by a choice of two batteries, offering up to 195 miles of emissions-free motoring. In addition, the Vivaro-e is more like a car to drive than a commercial vehicle and features the latest safety kit.”
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Prices for the Vivaro-e start from £27,028.33 OTR*
Praised for its impressive 205 mile range (WLTP) from a single charge as well as its modularity and practicality, the Vivaro-e’s win comes as no surprise www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
With a maximum load volume of 6.6m3 and a load capacity of 1,226kg, the Vivaro-e supports up to 100kW rapid charging, with an 80% charge taking just 45 minutes due to its impressive 75kWh battery – making it ideal for businesses which cover high mileages daily. With zero tailpipe emissions, the Vivaro-e is also exempt from current ultra-low emissions and congestion
charge fees, helping reduce overheads alongside lower running costs. Paul Willcox, Managing Director, Vauxhall, said: “We’re incredibly honoured with the Vivaro-e’s achievements this year, and this win at the Auto Express New Car Awards is no exception. Whilst proving to be a resounding success with the experts, we are also delighted that the Vivaro-e is leading the UK electric LCV sales charts according to the latest figures from the SMMT. Vauxhall will have an all-electric version of every van in the range within the next few months and we’re proud to be at the forefront of moving van users to affordable and sustainable mobility.” Vauxhall is now one of the few UK LCV providers able to offer fleets an electric variant across its full line-up, following the announcement of the new Movano-e earlier in May. Auto Express' New Car Awards celebrate the best models available to UK drivers this year, decided through rigorous testing, assessment, and insightful reviews from its expert panel of judges.
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THE ALL-NEW ISUZU D -MAX
WORK LOADS FOR LESS BUSINESS CONTRACT HIRE FROM ONLY
£249
† MONTHLY RENTAL PLUS VAT INITIAL RENTAL £2,241.00 PLUS VAT Followed by 35 Monthly Rentals. Excess mileage charges and return conditions apply. Model pictured is a DL20 including optional special paint finish from £260.91 +VAT a month plus Initial Rental of £2,348.19 +VAT
SMARTER. STRONGER. SAFER.
DRIVEN TO DO
Jeffries Of Bacton Stowmarket, Suffolk Tel: 01449 781131
jeffriesofbacton-isuzu.co.uk
Startin Tractors Ashby Road, Twycross Tel: 01827 880088
startintractors-isuzu.co.uk
Culverwell Cars Robertsbridge, East Sussex Tel: 01580 880567 culverwell-isuzu.co.uk
All fuel consumption and emission values are based on the new WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure) test cycle which uses real-world driving data. Official fuel economy for the standard Isuzu D-Max range in MPG (l/100km): Low 25.1 – 27.6 (10.2 – 11.2). Mid 31.4 – 36.4 (7.8 – 9.0). High 36.0 – 39.4 (7.2 – 7.8). Extra-High 29.0 – 30.8 (9.2 – 9.7). Combined 30.7 – 33.6 (8.4 – 9.2). CO2 emissions 220 – 241g/km. †Example based on 8,000 miles per annum, non-maintained. Subject to status. UK residents 18+. Rental amounts shown are on the specific model stated plus VAT @ 20%. This offer excludes fleet and Members Affinity scheme sales, is only available through participating Isuzu dealers and is not available in conjunction with any other offers or with BASC, NGO or NFU member discounts. This offer is only available through Lex Autolease Ltd trading as Isuzu Contract Hire, Heathside Park, Heathside Park Road, Stockport SK3 0RB. Offers may be varied or withdrawn at any time. Offer ends 30.09.2021. Vehicle must be returned in a good condition to avoid further charges. You will not own the vehicle. If the vehicle has exceeded the maximum permitted mileage then a charge of 10.40p plus VAT @20% per excess mile will apply. The All-New Isuzu D-Max is Smarter Stronger Safer compared to previous model. Terms and conditions apply.