February 2013 Farming Monthly National

Farming

MONTHLY National

February 2013

Inside this issue...

On Topic Sustainable food production

LAMMA 2013 Show round-up

Sheep & Lambing Is there any good news to be had?

Buildings The importance of ventilation Also Inside: Education | Energy | Machinery | Spraying | Precision Farming | ATVs | Motors

Contents

18

26

February 2013

60 52

Features

Regulars

14 16 18 22 26 28 43 54

06 12 15 48 59 66

Forestry News

Animal Health Latest news

Precision Farming Precision Farming Event imminent

Spring Spraying New equipment

Sheep & Lambing Lambing season is upon us

LAMMA Post show review

Buildings

News All the latest need to know commentary

On Topic Sustainable food conference

Education Education & training news

Energy What’s new in the energy sector?

ATV The essential workhorse round-up.

Motors What’s new on the road?

NEXT MONTH

Animal housing ventilation

Farm Finance

Red Tractor Farm Assurance news We welcome feedback and encourage readers to air their views. Have an opinion on a story or agriculture in general? Write to us at the address below or email letters@farmingmonthly.com Whilst every attempt is made to ensure accuracy, the opinions expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of the Editor. The Editor also reserves the right to alter or edit material as necessary and no responsibility is accepted for inaccuracies. Full copyright applies. All rights reserved 2012.

Andrew Poulton EDITOR

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| News

Training scheme launch Permitted development rights for rural property Rural business training for 90,000 entrepreneurs adds to drive toward rural economic growth.

Proposed relaxation of planning regulations welcomed. t least 90,000 aspiring businesspeople will get specialist training as part of the Government’s latest drive towards rural economic growth Environment Secretary, Owen Paterson has announced.

The new Government £20 million business training scheme will bring new skills and business knowledge to rural areas, helping them take up new opportunities in the home and export markets.

Environment Secretary Owen Paterson said: “Having the right skills to run a business is crucial if budding entrepreneurs want to be successful. For too long the needs of rural business people have been overlooked. Those days are now over. Businesses in the remotest parts of the country will now have access to the best training so they can grow and help our country to compete even more in the global race.”

Defra will meet 70 per cent of training costs through its Rural Development Programme for England with the remaining 30 per

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cent met by individuals or their employers.

Subsided courses in subjects including business and management, market opportunities and information technology will be open to businesses and individuals. They will range from one-day workshops to industry-recognised qualifications and will be run on college campuses, in village halls, on farms and in business centres.

The organisations providing the training will be able to tailor the courses to meet demand.

Mr Paterson is making today’s announcement on a fact-finding Rural Roadshow to Herefordshire.

He will visit Herefordshire College of Technology, one of many colleges offering training in horticultural, agricultural and forestry skills as part of the scheme.

Rural Roadshows allow ministers to hear first-hand from rural communities and businesses what more the Government can do to support economic growth and help their communities to thrive.

06 | Farming Monthly | February 2013

he Government has announced proposals to relax planning regulations to allow both change of use of redundant farm buildings to other business uses and for conversion of commercial buildings to residential.

The detailed regulations are yet to be published but agricultural buildings up to a specific size could be converted to business uses such as shops, restaurants, small hotels, leisure facilities and offices. It is to be noted the list of uses excludes residential use.

However, the Government has also announced they will allow change of use from office to residential under permitted development rights although initially this time will be limited to three years.

Andrew Bays of BCM, specialists in rural property operating throughout Southern England, comments: “These are extremely welcome changes to the planning legislation with the Government clearly signalling its

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intention to streamline the process. The impact of these two measures will be significant in rural areas and all farmers and landowners are encouraged to consider carefully the ramifications of this announcement. The detailed regulations are yet to be published, but it is noted the Government have already stated the permitted development right only refers to the use of the buildings”.

“There will be a host of other issues to consider including local designations (conservation areas, national parks etc) and the fact that material alterations to the outside of properties may still need planning permission.

Notwithstanding these potential complications, we still feel the inclusion of these under the permitted development mechanism will provide a much needed shot in the arm for those considering converting redundant farm buildings or those with empty rural buildings to let”.

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| News

Help for ESA holders Natural England is reminding its farming customers that it will be continuing to make Environmental Stewardship scheme derogations available to help farmers cope with further wet weather or snowfall this winter. atural England is temporarily lifting some of the land management requirements that normally apply to Environmental Stewardship (ES) agreements, so that farmers and growers have more flexibility to deal with the impact of this winter’s extreme weather.

Geoff Sansome, Natural England’s Director for Land Management (South) said: “Farmers are facing some very difficult conditions on their land this winter and we continue to provide help and advice wherever we can to support the farming community. We will ensure that appropriate derogations are available to help our Environmental Stewardship agreement customers to deal with some of the problems that this winter’s very bad weather is causing.”

Flooding remains a particular problem at the moment. In the parts of England where wet ground conditions will make it necessary to delay carrying out specific Environmental

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Stewardship options until the spring, agreement holders should contact Natural England as soon as possible for advice about a derogation.

Natural England has also confirmed that in the event of further heavy snowfall this winter then livestock farmers - who may have an agri-environment agreement that includes restrictions on carrying out supplementary feeding - would be able to provide their livestock with additional feed. This would be a temporary relaxation for the duration of any severe cold weather period and it will not be necessary to contact Natural England for consent before carrying out supplementary feeding under these circumstances.

Farmers and land managers with Environmental Stewardship agreements can get derogation advice online at www.naturalengland.org.uk/es or by calling Natural England on 0300 060 0011, or from their local Natural England adviser.

Farm income figures highlight vital economic role of CAP With England’s wettest year on record a key factor in driving down farm profit, new government forecasts for farm income underline the importance of CAP to the farming industry, say’s the NFU. efra’s Farm Business Income forecasts for the year ending February 2013 predict a decline in the profitability of farming across the majority of farming sectors.

Weather-impacted output coupled with increased input costs have hit farming over the last year, and these figures are the first to indicate the financial impact on farmers. The NFU says they serve as a timely reminder that single farm payments act as a lifeline for many farm businesses and play a vital role when it comes to adapting to increasingly-volatile agricultural markets.

Livestock producers are among the hardest hit, with a double whammy of higher feed costs and an increased feed use hitting margins. The forecasts show profitability for the pig and dairy sectors falling by 50 per cent and 42 per cent respectively. For beef and sheep producers, falls of 44 per cent are predicted for lowland producers, while their uplands counterparts have fared worse with income falling by 52 per cent. Only the poultry sector remains unchanged, according to the Defra forecast.

NFU chief economist Phil Bicknell said: “The figures make sobering reading but will be no surprise for many in the industry.

Wheat yield and quality were hit

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by the weather, while it’s been well documented that rising costs outstripped farmgate price changes for dairy and pork producers at times over the last year. More recently, we can add the plummeting lamb price to the list of challenges the industry faces.

“The weather caused chaos across the board and has laid bare the importance of CAP payments. With profits squeezed, a larger number of farmers will again be forced to rely on CAP’s direct payments to underpin their business in the year ahead.

“Falling farm income data shatters the myth that high commodity prices would mean high profits. Farmers cannot produce at little or no profit indefinitely; they need to turn a profit and they need to re-invest.

The reality is that price volatility, low profitability and falling confidence does not provide a secure framework for a sustainable food industry. These figures should be a wake-up call for us all. Managing risk and volatility are key and that must be recognised by both the government in its CAP negotiations and in pricing decisions taken by the food chain.”

February 2013 | Farming Monthly | 07

| News

British Cattle Breeders’ Conference report The future of the US beef industry and the perceived health benefits of a new brand of milk were among the subjects under discussion at the annual British Cattle Conference, organised by the British Cattle Breeders Club. The event was held in Telford, Shropshire, on 21-23 January 2013.

S-based cattle breeder, Steve Radakovich stressed the importance of producing animals with the genetic potential to suit low cost systems and perform well off grass.

Cattle which required high levels of input and needed careful management were no longer profitable and had no place in today’s marketplace, which was experiencing increasingly volatile pricing structures and where land prices had rocketed, he said.

“High-priced feed grains have driven up US land values in the corn (maize) belt; in Iowa, we have seen a 60% rise in land values over the past three years,” Mr Radakovich told delegates. “This in turn has increased the value of

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rangeland and western irrigated farms, causing unprecedented demand for purchased and rental steadings, as well as for the commodities produced on farms, including livestock feedstuffs.

“Plant breeders develop varieties matched to specific areas and we need to apply the same principles to cattle breeding.

Genetics have moved at jet speed over the last 50 years and at present, beef cattle adapted to a particular environment are being shipped to a completely different environment. I believe that sustainable beef production is now dependent on how cattle perform with fewer resources, not how they perform with more.”

Meanwhile, Peter Nicholson of

Muller Wiseman Dairies outlined the benefits of A2 milk. The product, which was developed in Australia, looks and tastes the same as standard milk, but can only be obtained from cows which give a positive response to testing for A2 beta protein. In order to source its supplies, Muller Wiseman had sampled milk from more than 18,000 UK cows, of which around 35% were found to be A2 animals. Testing is carried out using a sample hair, taken from each cow.

“Studies show that around 20% of UK consumers do not drink milk, but that only 5-6% are clinically proven to be lactose intolerant,” said Mr Nicholson, who is the company’s procurement director. “The rest perceive that their milk intolerance is lactosebased, when it could very possibly be a reaction to A1 beta protein. In these cases, A2 milk could potentially enable them to drink milk again.”

A2 milk was launched in the UK last autumn, but has been on sale in Australia since 2007. It now

Steve Radakovich

commands 4% by volume of the Australian grocery liquid market and more than 6% by value, he added. This means it is larger than organic, lactose-free, fresh soya and goat’s milk sales combined.

The pop star, Danni Minogue has been chosen to head a marketing campaign for the product in the UK, where it is anticipated that 65,000 litres per day will soon be required.

Next Auctions on 11th February 2013 & 11th March 2013 commencing at 10.30am

08 | Farming Monthly | February 2013

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| News

Money saving - Time saving - Tax saving Isn’t it time that you switched over to LED lighting?

ED lighting is the new technology set to replace every light bulb over the next decade, and a simple way for farmers to make substantial savings on their energy bills.

Led lighting consumes up to 70% less energy than conventional lighting and their operating lifespan is rated far higher than other lamps, reducing maintenance costs as well as replacement costs.

A dairy farm in Shropshire who had 39 fluorescent tubes in their parlour, barns and cubicles, made a saving of £939 pounds a year on electricity alone by changing to RhinoCo LED tubes.

LED tubes were installed into their existing fittings, a hassle free procedure.

With the LED lights lasting 50,000 hours opposed to 10,000 for fluorescents, further savings for the farmer are through the non purchase of replacements, and in man hours replacing tubes.

This Shropshire dairy farms total projected savings, over the life time of their RhinoCo LED tubes, is £12,360.00, with the payback period being less than two years.

Martyn Caerwyn Jones of RhinoCo stated “LED lighting is a simple way to increase your

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profits. And with LED lighting qualifying for both Enhanced Capital and Annual Investment Allowances, tax relief on the lighting is at 100% in the year of purchase.”

But Buyer beware! LED stands for Light Emiting Diode and diodes in LED products can vary greatly in quality, affecting the quality of light they produce and also their performance.

RhinoCo provide quality LED products at a competitive price, all backed up with a 5 year warranty.

For a free LED energy comparison for your farm please contact RhinoCo Technology,Unit 3b Vernon Drive, Shrewsbury SY1 3TF Tel 0845 644 5421 email: mjones@rhinoco.co.uk or visit www.rhinoco.co.uk

February 2013 | Farming Monthly | 09

| News

Fresh Potato Outlook 2013: a shopper perspective 2012 was a challenging growing season, with exceptional weather conditions impacting on the GB crop’s size and quality. hoppers have seen price rises in store and there have been many stories about the cost of food within the media. Even in this difficult season, eight out of ten shoppers (78%) would rather buy British potatoes.

A key opportunity for 2013 is giving shoppers a clear reason to buy a specific line; building loyalty and encouraging trading up. A segment of shoppers are willing to pay more

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if it benefits them.

Shoppers see potatoes as healthy, but there is still a lack of knowledge about their nutritional benefits and these messages are important to give them a reason to buy.

10 | Farming Monthly | February 2013

Market performance In 2012 the market has remained stable, with a marginal volume decline year-on-year of 1.1%. Price inflation has been a major driver for the increase in the overall value of the fresh potato category, which has grown 4.3%. The average price per kg is now £0.702 compared to £0.64p a year ago.

As shoppers’ finances are stretched they buy cheaper lines. Economy potatoes now make up about one in every twenty (5.6%) packs purchased, which is up 12.3% in 2012.

However, results for the quarter show a marked drop in sales of these lines, while whites recorded significant growth. If shoppers have a clear reason to buy they are willing to pay more, chilled potato sales continue to grow at an average price of £3.53 per kg.

Role of promotions 28.8% of potato volumes were sold on promotion in 2012, which is 9.5% lower than in 2011. The most common promotion is a price reduction on a specific line. Shoppers see potatoes as a staple, so tend to look at relative price. Three in ten shoppers (30%) say they would just buy the bag on offer, however, four in ten (43%) express a preference to use a specific variety. Promotions can be an important shopper marketing tool when used to deliver a defined objective, such as encouraging trial of a new line.

Potential to pay more, if there’s a real benefit Despite the fact that higher food prices, and

in particular the cost of potatoes, have been hitting the headlines, there is still the potential to encourage shoppers to trade up. Four in every ten (39%) shoppers say they would pay more for better cooking results. This presents a significant opportunity to drive value for the category; a move from whites to a named variety such as Maris Piper could equate to an additional £56m per annum.

In 2013 the challenge is to give shoppers a clear reason to buy mid-tier named varieties.

Potato Council research has identified better signposting as a real opportunity to build shopper understanding; using simple intuitive terms, emotive food photography and suggested usages.

Capitalising on health credentials There remains a small group (5%) who do not think potatoes are healthy, but the vast majority of shoppers do. There is an opportunity to build on this positive base, by improving understanding of their credentials and debunking the myth that potatoes make you fat, which is still believed by a third (33%) of shoppers.

In June this year health will be the headline message of the EU co-financed Many Faces of Potatoes campaign that will include PR activity, a TV advert and roadshows. This will focus on potatoes as naturally fat free and as a source of vitamin C.

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| On Topic

NEW USED

TRACTORS & EQUIPMENT

NEW Farmall 75c four wheel drive, 75hp. £22,000.00 CaseIH finance package.

2013 Puma 125 4wd. 40kph. 6 cyl. Cab & Axle Suspension, 3 speed pto. Power boost to 165hp. 600/65 x 38 tyres. £47750.00 CaseIH finance package.

NEW JXU105 four wheel drive, 106hp. 24x24 PowerShuttle, 16.9 x 34 tyres, air conditioned cab, weights, 40kph. £31,000.00 Fitted with Quicke or Chillton loader from £36,000.00 CaseIH finance package.

NEW Maxxum 110 EP 4wd. 40kph. 4cyl. Cab suspension, 3 speed pto. Power boost to 143hp. 113 litre hydraulic pump, 18.4 x 38 tyres. £39750.00 CaseIH finance package.

NEW JXU115 four wheel drive, 115hp. 24x24 PowerShuttle, 600/65 x 34 tyres, air conditioned cab, weights, 40kph. £33,000.00 Fitted with Quicke or Chillton loader from £38,000.00 CaseIH finance package.

NEW JXU85 four wheel drive, 85hp. Synchro Shuttle, 40kph.

16.9 x 34 tyres. £23,750.00 CaseIH finance package.

Additional selection of NEW CaseIH machinery NEW Farmall 65c two wheel drive, 65hp. £18,000.00 CaseIH finance package.

NEW Maxxum 125 4wd. 40kph. 6 cyl. Cab & Axle Suspension, 540/1000 pto. Power boost to 165hp. 113 litre hydraulic pump, 18.4 x 38 tyres. £47000.00 CaseIH finance package.

NEW Farmall 65c four wheel drive, 65hp. £20,000.00 CaseIH finance package.

All prices in Pounds Sterling plus vat. CaseIH finance offered subject to terms and conditions. Offered subject to remaining unsold.

NEW Maxxum 115 EP 4wd. 40kph. 6 cyl. Cab suspension, 3 speed pto. Power boost to 154hp. 113 litre hydraulic pump, 600/65 x 38 tyres. £42500.00 CaseIH finance package.

NEW JXU85 four wheel drive, 85hp. Synchro Shuttle, 40kph.

16.9 x 34 tyres. £23,750.00 CaseIH finance package.

NEW Maxxum 120 EP 4wd. 40kph. 4 cyl. Cab & Axle Suspension, 3 speed pto. Power boost to 154hp. 113 litre hydraulic pump, 600/65 x 38 tyres. £46000.00 CaseIH finance package.

Website with photographs : www.startintractors.co.uk

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February 2013 | Farming Monthly | 11

| On Topic

On Topic

Partnership is key to progress in sustainable efficient agriculture Industry-led action, based on a sound business case and scientific evidence from the research community, will prove more effective than Government intervention in delivering long-term improvements in sustainable efficient food production.

hat was the central theme to emerge from a groundbreaking conference in Birmingham, UK, last month which was organised by the Centre of Excellence for UK Farming & Farming Futures (CEUKF/FF) in partnership with the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB).

The conference which was supported by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) and the Biosciences Knowledge Transfer Network brought together scientists, farmers, food manufacturers, retailers and policy-makers to share the latest information.

It focused on the rapid progress taking place to measure, benchmark and drive improvements across key performance indicators such as

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Conference offers forum to discuss latest information in sustainable food production

12 | Farming Monthly | February 2013

greenhouse gas emissions, energy and water consumption, land use and biodiversity impact.

The conference was the first of its kind to focus entirely on new metrics for sustainable agriculture, and to assemble the leading proponents in this area from industry alongside the scientific community.

Combined pressures of population growth, climate change and declining natural resources are leading to a global drive for ‘sustainable intensification’ in agriculture. But delivering this vital change requires new tools and initiatives to measure and compare the productivity, resource-use efficiency and environmental impact of farming and food production systems. Or as one speaker put it “You have to measure it to manage it”.

Only through close cooperation and partnership between scientists, industry and Government can we hope to ensure a consistent approach and direction in the drive to meet complex sustainability and production targets across diverse product sectors and farming systems.

CEUKF Chairman Lord Curry of Kirkharle said: “The diverse range of initiatives highlighted at this conference, and the enormous interest it has generated among delegates from the UK and

overseas, demonstrates the urgent need for a joined-up UK approach to defining, benchmarking and driving improvements in sustainable efficient production.

“CEUKF is taking a lead as a focal point for industry and the science base to work together and share expertise and knowledge in this area.

“Over the past year, CEUKF has expanded to embrace leading research and knowledge transfer expertise from across the UK. With ongoing support from Waitrose, CEUKF partners now include IBERS-Aberystwyth, NIAB/TAG, AFBI, SRUC and Harper Adams University.

“Our ultimate objective is to identify and promote best practice in sustainable efficient production among UK farmers, through innovation and knowledge transfer in technology, production systems and on-farm management.”

Professor Ian Crute, Chief Scientist of AHDB who cosponsored the conference said: “This conference highlighted just how much is being done throughout the agricultural supply chain to identify where and how it is possible to reduce the environmental impacts of food production at the same time as responding to the ever-growing demand for safe, secure sources of high quality products.

“However, the conference also

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| On Topic

highlighted how much more there is to do before it will be possible to confidently qualify and compare the different environmental impacts of diverse production systems in widely varying localities. There is no easy solution to equating impacts on such things as water use, net greenhouse gas emissions, valued landscapes and conservation of wildlife.

Deciding to make change requires understanding and analysis of trade-offs so that farmers and growers can optimise their operations in

Eileen Wall from Scotlandís Rural University College

ways that are appropriate to their local circumstances and markets.

“This conference forcefully demonstrated the vital importance of a joined-up approach between producers, manufacturers and

retailers drawing on the best scientific knowledge. The contributions emphasised that sustainability is not about warm words and good story-lines that enable firmly-held beliefs to be reinforced and marketed. It’s all about measurements, analysis and digestion of facts that may sometimes be unpalatable.”

On Topic

The Panel

About Aberystwyth University

The Centre of Excellence for UK Farming (CEUKF) & Farming Futures CEUKF is a pioneering supply chain partnership initially funded by Waitrose and established by the Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences (IBERS) at Aberystwyth University and the National Institute of Agricultural Botany (NIAB) with an expanded membership that includes Farming Futures (www.farmingfutures.org.uk) and a number of other top UK research institutions. The Centre is designed to deliver on the current and future requirements for sustainable food supply in the UK. In order to do this, it is important to bring the best, independent research scientists in a number of disciplines together with food retailers and their supply-chain partners to work on what is a complex problem affecting us all. http://www.farmingfutures.org.uk www.ceukf.org.uk Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) is funded from levies which cover about 75% of total agricultural output in the United Kingdom (UK). The organisation supports pig meat production in England (BPEX), beef and lamb production in England (EBLEX), commercial horticulture in Great Britain (HDC), milk production in Great Britain (DairyCo), potatoes in Great Britain (Potato Council) and cereals and oilseeds in the UK (HGCA). AHDB funds research and development (R&D) as well as undertaking farm-level knowledge exchange (KE) activity. The organisation also provides essential market information to improve supply chain transparency, deliver marketing promotion activities to help stimulate demand and works to maintain and develop export markets. www.ahdb.org.uk IBERS The Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences (IBERS) is a world class award winning research and teaching centre at Aberystwyth University. Around 300 research, teaching and support staff conduct basic, strategic and applied research in biology, using major new facilities that include the National Phenomics Centre and the BEACON bio-refinery. IBERS provides skills and professional training through a number of initiatives including the Advanced Training Partnerships (http://www.atp-pasture.org.uk) with other major UK centres

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Established in 1872, Aberystwyth (www.aber.ac.uk) is a leading teaching and research university and was awarded a Queen’s Anniversary Prize for Higher and Further Education in 2009. Aberystwyth University is, according to The Times Good University Guide 2013 among the top 10 UK universities for student satisfaction. We are a community of 12,000 students and 2,300 staff.

Aberystwyth University is about creating opportunities, research with excellence that makes an impact, teaching that inspires, engaging the world, working in partnership and investing in our future. Registered charity No 1145141.

More at: www.aber.ac.uk/en/

February 2013 | Farming Monthly | 13

| Forestry

Reactions to Government announcement on forests The Woodland Trust would have liked to see clearer conclusions on some aspects but acknowledge there is more to come and stakeholder involvement will be crucial.

Sue Holden, Woodland Trust Chief Executive, said: “Woodland protection, improvement and expansion, cited

by Government as priority areas, carry equal weight and cannot be taken in isolation. To ensure we achieve truly resilient landscapes able to withstand threats not only from disease but also increasingly from development, the Woodland Trust will continue to champion a strategy that includes all three approaches.

"We are pleased to see Government's recognition of the

need to deliver an increase in woodland cover up to 12%, which must ensure planting the right trees in the right places to protect, link and extend what little remains of our existing ancient woodland, as well as identifying appropriate areas to plant new woods and individual trees in towns and cities too.

"We welcome Government's reaffirmation that the public forest estate will be overseen by a publically accountable body but urgently need clarification on plans for the future of Forest Services as

we are concerned that this remains uncertain.

"As the UK's leading woodland conservation charity, we will continue to work with Government to ensure it puts the right policy, incentives, public agencies and resources in place to deliver what is needed to ensure our forests, woods and trees are protected and valued for future generations."

The Woodland Trust recognises that Owen Paterson has shown leadership on tree health and must now be a strong advocate within Government to take forward

broader forestry issues and identify next steps in key stakeholder processes. We will hold Government to account on those promises it has made today, especially around woodland expansion and the protection and restoration of ancient woodland.

We will continue to work closely with Defra, the Forestry Commission, Forest Research and Fera as well as other partners in order to achieve our commitment to ensure that society receives greatest benefit from trees and woods far into the future.

Biomass key to meeting Defra’s woodlands priorities, says campaign.

Gaynor Hartnell, Chief Executive of the Renewable Energy Association (REA), said: “We welcome this statement, which recognises how biomass can add to the economic value of forests and therefore encourage more woodlands to be planted.

“45% of England’s forests are

unmanaged, which means they are less effective at absorbing carbon, not so accessible, less good for biodiversity and more vulnerable to diseases.

“By sitting alongside other industries like construction and carpentry, bioenergy uses byproducts that can find little other

value – such as thinnings, off-cuts and residues. That provides an extra revenue stream which, coupled with robust sustainability criteria, helps landowners to invest in responsible forest management.

We’re pleased to see the policy statement acknowledging this compatibility, especially in

undermanaged broadleaf woodlands.

“We look forward to working with Defra, our own REA/Confor Woodfuel Suppliers Group and other industry leaders to show how biomass is key to English forestry’s future.”

As the main organisation representing private forestry owners, the CLA said it was very pleased to see that the Government Forestry Policy Statement confirms the Government’s commitment to “sustaining, managing and improving our forests and woodlands so they can contribute to economic growth and benefit people and nature”.

CLA President Harry Cotterell said: “This statement of forestry policy is timely and encouraging. It is particularly good that the Government has reiterated its pledge to give a higher priority to tree and plant health than ever before with up to £8.5million found from various sources to undertake in-depth research into tree diseases.

“We are also encouraged that it includes a promise that the Government will work with landowners to increase the amount of actively managed woodland and to review this process in five years’ time.”

The CLA President also highlighted the Statement’s

backing for developing the voluntary woodland carbon market to reflect forestry’s low carbon credentials, and the announcement of a pilot scheme to reduce regulatory burdens on landowners who want to plant woodland.

He added: “The Government’s plans for making forestry more commercial are commendable.

Now it is vital they are implemented.

“The CLA is already engaged with Defra, the Forestry Commission, Forest Research and Fera in all areas of forestry policy.

We look forward to continuing to work with the Government to deliver forestry policy.”

14 | Farming Monthly | February 2013

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| Education

Rural Skills Centre Walford developments move another step forward. alford and North Shropshire College has moved another important step forward with its £3m capital development plan following submission of plans for restoration and refurbishment of a range of iconic listed buildings at its land-based campus at Walford.

Shrewsbury-based architects DGA Ltd met the College’s deadline for submission of the full planning application by Christmas with a couple of days in hand. The application sets out in greater detail the proposals already discussed in outline with Baschurch Parish Council, Shropshire Council and Walford students and staff.

Andrew Tyley, College Principal & Chief Executive, sees this as an important step in the process: “We are keen to start work on this next phase of development as soon as possible after Easter. We hope to get the planning application approved by the end of February and our design team have already started work on the tender documents so that we can start the tender process for the main construction phase as soon as we get confirmation from the planners. As things stand we are right on track to have the first buildings ready for the start of autumn term, with the remaining works completed later in the autumn.”

Transformation is already underway With planning consent for the new

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£1m dairy unit received before Christmas, work on this part of the development started over the holiday period and already the campus is starting to look very different. The majority of demolition work has been completed to make way for the construction of the new dairy and youngstock buildings, which are due to be erected later in January. Neil Ridgway, Farm Manager at Walford, is impressed with the rate of progress and the scale of the transformation: “After over eighteen months planning for the new dairy, it is really satisfying to see the changes now taking place.

The investment will give us a superb, modern dairy and bring back into use some fantastic listed buildings for educational purposes. At the same time it provides a great opportunity to remove some of the poorer quality farm buildings which have outgrown their usefulness. The views and whole ambience of the campus already feels quite different and there is a great sense of anticipation and excitement around the College.”

Chris Jones, Head of Faculty for Land-based Studies at Walford notes: “We are already seeing strong interest for places at Walford for September 2013. I have no doubt that the improvements to teaching and practical facilities will help us achieve another record year for Walford this summer”.

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| LAMMA

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| Animal Health

Getting the most from your calves Importance of appropriate colostrum, milk management and good calf rearing. raditionally the spring time in the UK was the time of year when cow’s calved down and the important job of calfrearing began. With year round calvings, liquid milk production and zero grazing, calvings and calf rearing are now a year round occupation for most dairy farmers.

However it is good to remind ourselves of best practices to ensure maximal viability of our newborne calves at this time of renewed growth and optimism for the year ahead.

While the farmer busies himself with the “important job” of milking and feeding the cows, it is often the job of the farmer’s wife to look after and rear the young calves. This is actually a good division of labour, not because our farming women cannot look after cows, but because often times the fairer sex are much more skilled and dedicated when looking after the often over looked younger stock. These represent the future and hopefully superior genetics of the herd and the future milk supply of the countryside. This is borne out in the fact that as a practising large animal vet I found that the calves reared by women were healthier, and you usually would be called a lot faster to look at a sick calf and ultimately achieve better results on these visits.

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The importance of good calf rearing is not to be underestimated.

It is reported by DEFRA that 6% of calves die before they reach six months, which means that for a 300 cow herd a farmer will lose on average 18 calves a year. In many individual herds this figure is a lot higher and can represent a significant loss of future earning potential. There is plenty of excellent advice on treating sick calves available from vets, from DEFRA and from consultants. Now working as a Bimeda technical Vet I could also tell you about many options for treating calves when they do get sick also.

However the key to successful calf rearing is to rely on good husbandry and farming practices to achieve healthy calves, with bought in products generally speaking only serving to back up good farming practice and aid the treatment of calves when required.

Two important points that I constantly reminded my calf rearing clients in practice about concerned colostrum and milk or milk replacer feeding.

The importance of colostrum The importance of feeding colostrum in adequate amounts cannot be overlooked.

Colostrum contains the immunoglobulins necessary to prime

the calf’s immune system as the calf is borne without any antibodies.

These immunoglobulins are ready to fight the infections that will invariably come, either through the fresh navel, the lungs, or more usually the mouth and the gastro-intestinal system. One could think that there it is a flaw in Mother Nature because no immunoglobulins are transferred trans-placentally before the calf is borne which is why rapid colostral intake post birth is vital. In practice I used to have farmer’s complaining that scour vaccines administered to cows did not work but these vaccines will only have a benefit if the calf is given adequate colostrum, as again the antibodies supposedly stimulated in scour vaccines do not pass directly from cow to calf. My recommendation for vaccinated and unvaccinated herds is to stomach tube three litres of good quality beastings into each calf within three hours of birth and also ensure another 3 litres are consumed within 12 hours of birth. I also advise farmers to be cautious when buying in colostral supplements. Only use supplements that clearly state they contain colostrum derived immunoglobulins, and only use products sourced from disease free herds. My own company sell a quality immunoglobulin supplement which is from certified disease free herds, Biocolost B. This is a good example of a reliable colostrum product and is available through the trade and vets. However like all colostrum products it is designed to supplement good colostrum management and not for replacement of good farming practice. I would advise the farmer to use a good quality product such as this where there is poor colostrum quality or low volume available from the cow and the intake of the calf is in doubt.

Some vet practices now in the UK have calf health schemes in place where they will routinely sample calves blood to estimate calf colostrum intake and it is a great way for monitoring the colostrum management of herds. Calves that

are receiving ample biestings will go on to have less illness incidents, achieve growth rate targets and ultimately more profitable and healthier cows.

The importance of adequate milk feeding Milk or milk replacer feeding is an area that vets and farmers have been slow to target in many parts of the country. The traditional approach of feeding two litres twice a day is simply not enough to achieve a weaning weight of at least 65kgs at 2 months old. To achieve this target, this essentially calls for a growth rate of 0.5kg a day. It has been shown in studies that calves that get more than 4L/day of milk grow faster, and are healthier heifers that grow faster before weaning calve earlier and have higher milk producing potential.

Calves that are fed on ad-lib regimes have been shown to be able to drink up to 20% ‘of their body weight a day (50 kg calf would be 10/litres/day!) and achieve growths of 1kg a day. However this is not always possible as most farmers do have computerised easy feeding calf rearing systems. Therefore a good recommendation is to feed your calves approximately 15% of their body weight a day of good quality milk or milk replacer. Also do not forget that when your calf gets diarrhoea to keep feeding milk or milk replacer as well as a good quality electrolytes such as Bimeda’s Boviferm Plus.

Finally for crucial development of the rumen in the neonatal calf the farmer should introduce concentrates as soon as possible after calving. It has been proven clearly that feeding concentrates is much more critical for calf development than forages such as hay. Fresh clean water should also be available at all times.

So in conclusion do not underestimate the importance of properly feeding your calves and do not ignore the effects of healthy calves on your farm viability. Finally do not forget to say thanks to the wife for doing a great job rearing those calves!

Useful related websites http://www.defra.gov.uk/publicatio ns/-cattle-survival www.animalhealthireland.ie http://www.bimeda.co.uk

February 2013 | Farming Monthly | 17

| Precision Farming

Precision Farming Event 2013 Discover the latest technology at the 2013 Precision Farming Event Wednesday 6th March 09.00 hrs to 16.00 hrs at the Peterborough Arena (East of England Showground). imed at farmers, contractors and agronomists the annual Precision Farming Event will showcase the latest equipment and techniques from the UK’s leading precision farming companies. Visitors will be able to see the latest systems first hand and compare equipment from all the major UK technology suppliers.

As well as a full technical trade exhibition, the event will also run a full seminar programme offering valuable information on a range of topics from industry-leading experts and farmers. The seminars will provide visitors

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hands-on examples of how equipment can be employed to improve accuracy, cut costs and boost margins. With a focus on putting precision farming into practice, leading farm managers will be explaining how they put the technology to work in their operations.

Precision farming specialist and event partner SOYL will be presenting its ‘performance mapping’ techniques that have been developed to simplify and enable the easy use of yield map data. Many farms are now sitting on a gold mine of yield map data and the PM Algorithm creates one simple map that sums up

18 | Farming Monthly | February 2013

multiple harvests. This map also links to roadmap for further investigation. SOYL’s presentation will combine an introduction to how it works followed by a practical farm example.

The events Crop Protection partner is the world’s leading chemical company BASF who are proud to be supporting the event and will be showcasing the best crop protection solutions alongside its decision support tools to help farmers and advisors implement precision farming.

The BASF technical team will also be on hand on the day to advise and help.

Precision Farming Event facts: Date: Wednesday 6th March 2013 09.00 hrs to 16.00 hrs Venue: Arena Exhibition Centre, East of England Showground near Peterborough PE2 6XE Tickets: £10 each by prebooking on-line at http://www.farmsmart.co.uk/precision/ or by telephone on 0845 4900 142. £15 on the day Further details: Telephone 0845 4900 142 Email info@farm-smart.co.uk

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RDS presents WEIGHLOG α10 on-board weighing system | Precision Farming

The Precision Farming Event 2013 will see RDS Technology Ltd exhibiting its extensive range of on-board weighing scales including the WEIGHLOG α10, which has been specifically designed for agricultural loaders. he WEIGHLOG α10 incorporates a 4.3” colour, hi brightness resistive touchscreen display and additional physical keys providing a user-friendly onboard weighing system that can be used for trailer & hopper loading, batch blending or check weighing.

Suitable for use with up to 10 different attachments e.g. buckets or forks, the system can be retrofitted onto compact wheeled loaders, telescopic handlers, forklifts, skidsteer type loaders and tractor loaders.

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“The Precision Farming Event 2013 will also see RDS Technology Ltd exhibiting its wide range of monitoring and measuring instruments for farming applications” The system measures hydraulic pressure using up to 4 sensors at a certain position on the lifting cycle compensating for pressure changes in the system.

Enhanced stores capability comprising 30

products, 30 customers and up to 5 different recipes designed around animal feed mixing, dispensing and grain handling enable accurate record keeping and traceability.

The system provides communication and data storage via SD card reader and USB 2.0 host allowing quick, safe and efficient uploading and downloading of data.

Also on show will be the Combine Moisture Meter 100.

Using the same moisture sensor technology as the renowned RDS Ceres yield monitor, the Combine Moisture Meter 100 eliminates the need to make regular stops during harvesting to test grain moisture content and helps to quickly identify if conditions are, or are becoming, unsuitable for combining.

Monitoring the moisture content of the crop helps to indicate its ripeness, enabling more timely harvesting decisions to be made in the field. Knowing the grain moisture content also allows it to be stored in the optimum location according to drying or cooling requirements.

The Precision Farming Event 2013 will also see RDS Technology Ltd exhibiting its wide range of monitoring and measuring instruments

for farming applications including the Artemis variable rate seed drill control system, the Ceres 8000i yield monitor system for combines, and the Delta 34i and Spraymaster 200 sprayer regulation and control systems.

The company’s range of monitoring, measuring and control systems for major OEM’s will also be on display. Areas of expertise include operator interfaces, CAN based systems, wiring harnesses etc for seed drills, bale wrappers and sprayers. Included here will be the Artemis Lite – a product offering variable rate control and monitoring for seed drills.

For more information on how RDS can help improve your farming operations - visit stand 9, go to www.rdstec.com or call 01453 733300.

Optima impresses with accuracy With a 2,000-acre workload of maize drilling and harvesting, Eastern Agricultural Contractors run by Tom Coxall of Tewes Farm, Little Sampford, Essex, is one focussed on precision and efficiency. eing in pursuit of high accuracy, Tom Coxall chose an Optima 8-row maize drill with HD units, e-drive and GEOcontrol for his business.

“With GEOcontrol and individual electric drive on each seeding unit, there are no overlaps on headlands, or with odd-shaped fields,” he says. “Such precision eliminates crop bunching on headlands and now makes harvesting so much easier.”

“We’re currently using a standard GPS signal but plan to increase our precision even further by upgrading to an RTK signal for Spring 2013.”

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“There is no doubt that this precision drill is the best on the market” About to start his second maize drilling season with the Optima, Mr Coxall says the trailed 8-row precision drill also brought a change in row spacings, from

50cm to 75cm rows. And this too, has also brought impressive results for customers.

“We’ve noticed far better plant quality at the wider row spacings, because they’re not competing with each other and this also has contributed to a yield increase,” “Typically, yields are 10-15% higher, but the maize crop also produces a thicker, stronger stalk, which is less susceptible to bending when being cut. As a result, we get a much cleaner cut.”

Used on a Fendt 724 with Power Beyond, he says the drill’s power requirement is minimal and average output is 120 acres/day, though peak outputs of 200 acres/day have been reported.

“Drilling speed is easily 12kph,” he says. “The Fendt will do three days on a tank of fuel and with auto-steering and GPS guidance, maize drilling is a stress-free operation.”

Mr Coxall says the ability to apply more downward pressure with the HD seeding units allows him to drill into tougher seedbeds

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without problem.

“There is no doubt that this precision drill is the best on the market, and it is hugely impressive when it comes to accuracy, output and versatility,” he says. “With plans to keep growing our maize business for dairy and biogas plants, I’d like a wider Optima with

more rows and also to have onthe-move fertiliser rate adjustment to match that of seed adjustment.”

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| Precision Farming

Expansion for precision Hitting the mark farming experts

Garford precision equipment maximises efficiency.

S Communications UK Ltd is expanding its precision farming services including appointing three new members of staff. This will enable the Cambridgeshire-based company to build upon its long established GPS precision farming product portfolio, which includes top product brands Trimble, Pacific Crest, DICKEY-john, Dakota Micro Incorporation (Agcam), Omnistar, Ram mounts, and Farm Works software packages.

AS Communications Managing Director William Mumford says “I’m delighted to welcome our three new appointments. Each one brings valuable new skills, enthusiasm and experience to our industry-leading team.”

Stephen James joins AS Communications as a sales support engineer based in Sussex, working with the UK farm machinery trade and supporting farmers across the DICKEY-john product range.

Stephen has enjoyed a 37-year career in the agricultural machinery sector, having served a national agricultural engineeringapprenticeship with Allman Sprayers, progressing into sales

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and support throughout the UK within the agricultural machinery trade.

Stephen Rugman joins as a support engineer, having decided to further his passion for precision farming systems. Based in Norfolk Stephen is ideally placed to support the company’s ever expanding customer base and RTK network.

Stephen’s family farms in southwest England, but he has recently worked in the vegetable farming processing industry in East Anglia.

During this time Stephen developed a flair for agricultural and horticultural hydraulic and electronic systems.

Rebecca Herdman is based at AS Communications’ office base as business administrator. She has been involved in all aspects of agriculture from a very young age, working on her family’s mixed-farm during her school holidays.

Rebecca has a very active role in North Beds Young Farmers, serving on the committee for many years.

Having gained a degree at Newcastle University in Marine Biology, Rebecca soon realised her real passion was for agriculture and is looking forward to working at AS.

AMMA saw the launch of the Robocrop InRow Weeder Mk2 which features greatly improved access for adjustments due to a revised front mount frame. The new layout makes for a more compact unit and improves visibility for the operator. The computer system now features a modular canbus based design with reduced wiring and solid state rotational sensors on the weeding rotors.

Garford also showed their Robocrop Precision Guided Hooded Sprayers which enable vast reductions in selective herbicide usage in many crops including OSR and other row crops with row widths down to 25cm. With the reduction in selective comes improved control of problem weeds such as blackgrass by the use of glyphosate or diquat type product inter-row.

The Garford range of inter-row cultivation equipment, available as either Robocrop Precision Guided High Speed Hoes or manually operated hoes, now benefit from a front mount allowing easy access to the cultivation equipment for

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Robocrop InRow Mk2

Hooded Sprayer

adjustments.

For more information contact Garford on 01778 342642 or visit www.garford.com

February 2013 | Farming Monthly | 21

| Spring Spraying

A new thoroughbred from Team Sprayers Team Sprayers marked LAMMA 2013 with the launch of their new mounted sprayer ‘Arian’.

eplacing the popular Custom Deluxe, Arian is designed for contractors who require a tough, British built sprayer to meet every possible application need from smooth silt to intensive bed work.

“It’s the boom which takes the punishment” explains Sales Director Danny Hubbard. “and we have designed and built a range of robust options up to 24m in steel tubular sections with a three dimensional structure that guarantees years of strength and durability plus a very good ride on

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all surfaces”.

Booms can be part folded to give working widths from 9, 11 and 12m. Variable boom geometry is available as an optional extra.

Triple nozzle assemblies are also offered. Tank capacities are 1000, 1200 and 1500 litres with the option of front tanks up to 1500L. Arian is named after a flying horse of ancient mythology.

For details please contact the Team Sales Office on 01353 661211 or visit www.teamsprayers.com

Berthoud trailed sprayers Now there are 5 Tenors! ince their launch in 2007 Berthoud ‘Tenor’ trailed sprayers have successfully met both operator and environmental needs in one of the most competitive market sectors in UK agriculture. The range has been extended by a new Tenor 65-70 model.

The major design objective has been to reduce environmental impact. Berthoud redesigned the trailed sprayer ‘from the ground up’, starting with suspension and a unique, easy rinse tank shape, and finishing with useful storage compartments for the convenience of the operator.

Tenor’s tanks have distinctive curved lines which not only aid stability, mixing and rinsing, they also ensure minimal residues for safe removal. This is assisted by pump’s simplified and shortened pipe work.

The Omega bi-turbine pump ensures spray pressures up to 8 bar. All models are available with a choice of DP Tronic or EC Tronic controls, including the E-Pilot remote control option.

Tenors are now available with 2800, 3500, 4300, 5500 and 6500 litre tanks with boom options from

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24 to 42m. The latest boom option is Berthoud’s new Ektar B2 boom which features dual action pendulum-axial type suspension with anti-yaw technology.

The 2 section boom offers a combination of strength, low maintenance and improved ride. It provides operators with the flexibility to alter suspension to best suit the terrain they are working on, selecting either the pendulum or the axial centre pivot system from inside the cab.

The triangulated aluminium structure integrates pipes and nozzle holders. Nitrogen ball on variable geometry cylinder guarantees improved shock absorption. Ektar B2 is available in widths from 36m to 42m. Berthoud now offer a retrofit kit to convert 36m booms to 24m working width.

For details please contact the Sales Office at Berthoud on 01553 774997 or visit www.berthoud.co.uk

Introducing Varidome S5... ...the 9m band sprayer for the broad acre farmer

Suitable for weed control in sugar beet, OSR, maize and many other row-grown crops Adjustable spray width to suit the crop Optional dual spray system Significantly reduced chemical and water requirement Shielded design minimises drift Compact folding for ease of transportation and storage Also available in 3 and 6m working widths

To find out more, call +44 (0)1885 482397 or email enquiries@micron.co.uk

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P R E C I S I O N A P P L I C AT I O N

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| LAMMA

AGRATECH NW LTD Unit 8 Dale Mill, Burnley Road East, Lancashire BB4 9HU Tel: 01706 211399 www.agratech.co.uk

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LW VASS (AGRICULTURAL) LTD Springfield Farm, Bedfordshire MK45 2AX Tel: 01525 403041 www.vassgro.co.uk

CENTRAL CROP SPRAYERS LTD Unit B, Sandford Ind. Park, Shropshire SY13 2AN Tel: 01948 840187 Mob. 07850 744335

FLOWGRO LTD Barton Turns Farm, Barton under Needwood, Burton on Trent, Staffs DE13 8ED Tel: 01283 712172 www.flowgro.co.uk

February 2013 | Farming Monthly | 23

| Spring Spraying

Outstanding response to stewardship campaign The high levels of campaign awareness and uptake of low drift nozzles achieved during the first year of the chlorpyrifos stewardship campaign ‘Say NO to DRIFT is a clear sign of growers’ commitment to securing the future for this valued insecticide. ccording to all three approval holders who are behind the initiative, the outcome, a year on, is very positive, but the need to act in accordance with the stewardship measures is as important as ever.

“In the UK the renewal status for all products containing the active ingredient chlorpyrifos is still pending,” said James Knight from Dow AgroSciences – a member company of the campaign consortium. “But with the FERA PUSG (Pesticides Usage Survey Group) research into the spray technology employed in 2012 showing 97% awareness of the campaign amongst users of chlorpyrifos in the arable sector, there are good reasons to be confident about its future.”

The data also revealed that over 80% of chlorpyrifos treatments were applied using low drift nozzles, in accordance with the requirements of the initiative that also set out a buffer zone of 20 metres adjacent to watercourses.

“This level of awareness is an outstanding result in just a year,” said James.

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The decision process is taking some time, he explained; “This is because it requires a change of regulatory policy, but also means that the stewardship measures need to be widely adopted as a matter of course.”

He reiterated that the aim of the campaign is to ensure that low drift nozzles and wider buffer zones around water are used for all applications of chlorpyrifos. “We hope that by delivering on these measures, the CRD (Chemicals Regulation Directorate) will have the confidence to renew chlorpyrifos product registrations that are dependent upon more stringent regulatory criteria relating to spray drift being met.

Low drift nozzles deliver “We are also clear that low drift nozzles deliver performance with chlorpyrifos on an equal basis to conventional nozzles,” he said.

Dilwyn Harris, principal biologist at Dow AgroSciences added that because chlorpyrifos acts by contact, ingestion and vapour activity to deliver pest control, there should be no loss of efficacy by switching to low drift nozzles.

“This has been validated by 2012 Dow trials data showing that the performance of Dursban WG (chlorpyrifos) for controlling wheat bulb fly is in no way negatively impacted compared to conventional flat fan nozzles. This was also the case for other, nonarable sector crops including brassicas.

James Knight added that the Say NO to DRIFT campaign has implications for a raft of other pesticides, given the wealth of insecticide, fungicide and herbicide treatments that will face similar regulatory challenges as further registrations come up for renewal, and as new chemistry comes forward.

“In the meantime, the message for chlorpyrifos treatments remains the same. The stewardship measures of adopting LERAP three star rated, low drift nozzles and observing the 20 metre buffer zone are a ‘must’. It is a case of using low drift nozzles for all applications of chlorpyrifos, or being prepared to say goodbye to the treatment all together.”

He added that anyone seeking

the continued use of the treatment should sign-up on the campaign website (www.saynotodrift.co.uk) to add to the weight of support for the initiative and to demonstrate the necessity of this treatment and the willingness to adopt the stewardship programme to the regulators.

Chlorpyrifos is typically employed in the arable sector during the early part of the year for wheat bulb fly control, leatherjacket control in spring cereals and to combat orange wheat blossom midge in the early summer. It is also used on field vegetables, soft fruit and orchard crops.

Chlorpyrifos Say NO to DRIFT guidelines: Broadacre crops and boom sprayers • Use LERAP – low drift – three star nozzles with 20 metre nospray buffer zone (1 metre for dry water bodies) (Please note that different guidelines apply to orchard crop chlorpyrifos applications)

Black-Grass detection and mapping service announced Project URSULA has announced a black-grass weed detection and mapping service to help reduce spraying, save money and help farmers and growers when making future crop management decisions. lack-grass is present in about 50% of the UK wheat growing area and is now thought to be present in more than 38% of all UK fields. It occurs in patches, has a significant impact on yield and is expensive to treat. Due to the difficulties associated with dealing with grass weeds such as black-grass, it is increasingly necessary to map infestation to inform future crop management decisions and precisely direct pre-emergence herbicide applications in following seasons.

From May 2012 onwards Project URSULA was able to detect black-grass in fields of wheat and map it with precision. Blanket spraying is costly, not environmentally sound and increases black-grass resistance. Using a precise weed map derived from URSULA imagery, variable rate application to affected areas offers an attractive alternative. The availability of direct injection sprayers to apply high concentrations of herbicide at precisely the right locations has obvious advantages over blanket spraying. The cost saving on herbicide

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Aerial photo

alone could be as much as 90%. URSULA is also working on detection in other crops such as oilseed rape and the current crop of winter Multispectral image wheat.

For the past two years URSULA has carried out a continuous flying and data collection programme using its own unmanned aerial system (UAS). This has taken place over arable Aerial photo with Blackgrass shown farms in England and Wales focusing on a in black number of crop varieties including winter wheat, vining peas, oilseed rape, sugar beet, and potatoes. Through a combination of sensors and cameras together with advanced Blackgrass remote sensing techniques and know how, identified URSULA is continuing to support sustainable agriculture. We do this by delivering timely, actionable, state of the crop intelligence and data to farmers and growers with the ultimate aims of saving money and improving yield.

A commercial spin-off, ‘URSULA Agriculture’, will be launched in the next few weeks to take a number of new products and services to market.

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| Sheep & Lambing

Heads up and fingers crossed for a successful 2013 lambing season With the lamb price, wet weather and the threat of Schmallenberg all hanging over us, the NSA fears many sheep farmers will be facing the lambing season with less enthusiasm than usual. hile we are in difficult times, and the negative news seems to be drowning out everything else at the moment, let us take a moment to see if perhaps there are some positive things to say about the sheep sector.

There are an incredible number of horror stories out there about Schmallenberg, with early lambing flocks suffering high losses and numerous deformed lambs. But the effects are not being seen on every single farm and one NSA member on the east side of England, who has just finished lambing his first batch of ewes, having suffered considerable losses from Schmallenberg last year, has not seen even one deformed lamb this time. He marked the ewes that produced a Schmallenberg-affected lamb last year and each one produced a perfectly healthy and strong lamb this year, suggesting they have developed natural immunity to the disease.

Of course one positive story does not counteract all the negative ones, but NSA feels it is important to report the good news as well as the bad and urge farmers not to assume the worst. It is vital that you are prepared for the lambing season and follow the advice of calling your vet if you are have any concern a ewe may be struggling to deliver a deformed lamb, but remember bad news always travels faster than good.

All these varying reports means NSA, along with every farmer in the country, has more questions about Schmallenberg than answers.

And that is why it is absolutely vital to collect as much information as we can. Schmallenberg is not a notifiable disease, which is definitely a good thing as the floundering lamb price would drop further still if European and countries worldwide erected trade barriers against us.

The negative flipside is that AHVLA is under no obligation to collect information about the disease and, given recent budget cuts, has no intention of doing so. That is why NSA has been fighting hard to create an industry-owned survey to collect information. Working alongside Eblex, NBA, NFU and others, we are only a matter of days

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away from having this available for sheep farmers, with one for cattle not far behind.

Once the survey is available, NSA urges every single sheep farmer to fill it in. It is designed to be completed once you have finished lambing each batch of ewes – i.e. if you lamb some ewes early and some later complete the survey twice, but if you lamb everything together do it just once. As long as you have basic information to hand (such as scanning rate, number of losses etc) then it will not take long to fill in and will provide the industry with a good overview of the 2012/13 lambing season as a whole, as well as vital information on Schmallenberg.

A vaccine for the disease has already been created and, as NSA understands, there are bottles of it already produced but waiting for a license from the Veterinary Medicines Directorate before they can be marketed. While it is reassuring to know that a vaccine has been developed, for sheep farmers who know the risk period is just after ewes have been tupped, it is of no use at the moment. But if one slither of hope can be found in this situation, it is that by collecting information now we will have a far better understanding of how to use the vaccine in the future. The survey may reveal that all ewes are at risk and could benefit from being jabbed, or that the majority develop natural immunity and only ewe lambs/replacements need the vaccine. It is only with good information that we can increase our understanding, so please fill in the survey once it is available.

Of course Schmallenberg is not the only threat facing the sheep industry at the moment and, like the weather, the big issue about the lamb price is something that is very difficult to influence. The impact of the drop in the lamb price has been catastrophic and while the recent lift has been welcome, it is not enough.

The main cause was the weather last summer and autumn resulting in lambs growing far slower than normal and delayed the normal seasonal peak of production by six to eight weeks. Unfortunately this peak then clashed with both New Zealand imports and the exchange rate stifling UK exports. The exchange rate has moved a little in our favour now and things have slightly improved, but the real frustration for NSA is a lack of support from supermarkets for UK lamb.

A drop in the farmgate price should mean a drop on supermarket shelves too, stimulating retail sales and easing some of the pain felt by farmers. While it appears not all supermarkets are passing on this price drop, we have been shocked to also hear that staff in some supermarkets are telling shoppers UK lamb is ‘out of season’ and this is the reason for high volumes of New Zealand lamb on the shelves.

Given that New Zealand lamb on supermarket shelves is not as cheap as it has been historically, a better pricing structure in supermarkets, a wider selection of UK cuts and better presentation on the shelf would all benefit shoppers and farmers alike.

As we head towards the main lambing season, let us hold our heads high that we produce the best lamb in the world and hope that the work of NSA and others keeps the pressure on retailers to act responsibility and encouraged shoppers to back a home-grown product that not only tastes delicious but is a vital part of our environment, landscape and rural communities.

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| Sheep & Lambing

Second generation tagging system Brian Eadie is based in Selkirk in the Scottish Borders.

He designs and makes animal tags, and has done for 20 years. oxan, Brian’s company, introduced the first commercially successful automatic sheep tagging system in the world 10 years ago. They have developed a Generation 2 tagging system, “TagFaster”, to replace the original, and designed around the use of EID tags.

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“The Roxan coding system provides a visible yearcolour patch of the predominantly yellow EID tags” Original tag legislation demanded purely yellow electronic (EID) sheeptags. However, Roxan realized that under this scheme all ages of breeding sheep would be wearing yellow tags – and if the non-yellow year-colour tag was lost, there would be no simple visual method of identifying the

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animal’s age.

Consequently, Roxan designed TagFaster EID tags with an additional coloured-patch. Defra, after consulting with and receiving support from the NSA, NFU and LAA, changed the law in favour of this useful innovation.

The Roxan coding system provides a visible year-colour patch of the predominantly yellow EID tags with six year colours, and conveniently delivered in the form of 10 twin tag sets in alternating colours (or 20 single batch tags always with black tips to indicate short life animals).

For additional information on this and more tag innovations, call Roxan on 01750 22940 or email sales@roxan.co.uk. Roxan’s website is www.roxan.co.uk.

February 2013 | Farming Monthly | 27

| LAMMA

Cold and frosty weather, fails to deter both visitors and exhibitors to LAMMA 2013 This year’s show played host to a record number of stands and good business was done according to exhibitors. espite the extremely cold and frosty weather on both show days, the record number of over 860 stands, played a large part in attracting a high number of visitors to LAMMA 2013, with many arriving for breakfast well before the Show’s official time of 7.30am. Over the two days, between 38 and 40,000 visitors from all parts of the UK, and much further afield, arrived to browse around the very impressive volume and wide range of equipment and services on display, with many new products making their debut on the UK market. In addition, to the major multi-national manufacturers represented at Show there was a large number of innovative ideas and products from the many small manufacturers and service providers who were able to take the increasingly rare opportunity to display their products to a national and rapidly growing international audience.

This big increase in the number of exhibitors over the past two or three years, has brought with it a very much greater diversity of products, but it has also meant that the LAMMA Show has now outgrown its present site at Newark. This factor, combined with all-to-often traffic congestion associated with the road network around Newark, has led the Organisers to make the regrettable decision to move from the Newark Showground and re-locate the LAMMA 2014 Show to the East of England

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28 | Farming Monthly | February 2013

Showground, which is situated close to the A1 trunk road to the west of Peterborough. “ Reports from exhibitors across all sectors indicate that good business was done, despite the cold weather, on both days of the Show and many leads for future follow-up were collected,” says LAMMA’s Event Director, Cliff Preston.

“The founding principles of the LAMMA Show have remained the same throughout its more than thirty year history; low costs for exhibitors, free entry and free parking for visitors and, in general, I am a firm believer in the old maxim ‘If it isn’t broken don’t try to fix it’.

However, we are also acutely aware of the need to make the experience of both visiting and exhibiting at the LAMMA Show as pleasurable and cost effective as possible.”

“With more and more companies from across Europe, and further afield, wishing to display their products at LAMMA, we believe that the move to The East of England Showground at Peterborough will enable us to offer them the opportunity to take part in the event and also add to the diversity of choice available to our visitors. In addition, to a greater diversity of exhibitors, the road layout around the new Showground venue should lend itself to improved traffic flows and quicker access to the car parks.”

“The original ethos of the event has changed little over the years and largely because of this

both visitors and exhibitors place the LAMMA Show very high on their list of favourite Shows for the agricultural and associated industries.

Long may that continue!”

The Organisers would like to thank all visitors who contributed to the charity collection for the Lincolnshire & Nottinghamshire Air Ambulance held at LAMMA 2013. Air Ambulances across the country contribute enormously to reducing the response times of the accident and emergency services, particularly in time critical or remote situations.

The collection raised a sum in excess of £13,500 – once again a big thank you to all who made a contribution.

The thirty-third LAMMA Show will take place at the East of England Showground, Peterborough on Wednesday 22nd & Thursday 23rd January 2014.

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| LAMMA

Silver Anniversary MAGNUM stars at LAMMA One of the star attractions at the 2013 LAMMA Show was this distinctive Case IH Magnum 340, one of a limited number of identical tractors which the company has produced to mark 25 years of Magnum production at its factory in Racine, Wisconsin. ust 25 Silver Edition models, all based on the flagship Magnum 340, will be coming to Europe, this being the only one available in the UK. The first-ever Magnum rolled off the production line in 1988 and was eagerly-awaited because it was the first all-new tractor to be developed by the combined engineering expertise of International Harvester and Case, two of the best-known companies in the farm-equipment sector.

Since then Magnum-series models have been at the forefront of highhorsepower tractor design. Known for ground-breaking pulling power and torque, Magnum has achieved an excellent reputation for performance, reliability and straightforward operation and service.

Twenty-five years on, Magnum continues to set industry standards in terms of innovation, power and performance. In a recent tractor test by Farmers Weekly a Magnum 340EP achieved top position for fuel consumption and linkage lift

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capacity, while being singled out for its strong engine and efficient automatic transmission.

Powered by an 8.7-litre, sixcylinder turbocharged and intercooled diesel delivering up to 374hp with Power Management, the Magnum 340EP features Efficient Power (EP) technology to provide greater power and increase productivity. This includes Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technology, which improves horsepower, engine responsiveness, fuel economy and reliability for maximum performance and lowest possible operating costs.

The 340EP delivers its power through a full Powershift Transmission and, like all Magnum models, is equipped with Automatic Productivity Management (APM), which automatically selects the most efficient gear ratio and engine speed combination. When APM is activated the operator needs only to select the desired ground speed for optimised performance.

Paul Freeman, Magnum

Product Marketing Specialist for Case IH UK, commented: "When Case IH launched the first Magnum in 1988 it quickly gained a strong reputation with farmers for power, productivity and performance. Its successors have continued to maintain that hardwon reputation and although the Magnum name has remained the same, the tractor itself has

developed beyond all recognition.

Today, the five models in the range, from the Magnum 235 to the Magnum 340, are at the forefront of tractor technology, meeting the power, durability, comfort and productivity needs of large-scale farmers in the UK."

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February 2013 | Farming Monthly | 29

| LAMMA

Launched at LAMMA: Perry eziquote For instant access to prices and specifications for all your grain drying and handling needs. visit to Perry of Oakley Ltd’s new website offers the arable farmer: • Perry product information.

• Access to related farming sites for the latest weather, grain prices and farming news.

• Maintenance section to help customers get the best out of their Perry equipment and to help trouble shoot problems.

• Case studies and downloads.

• Monthly prize draws for farming related products.

• PLUS the use of eziquote Perry’s on line 24hr grain drying and handling equipment pricing system.

The eziquote system is the first system of it’s kind to automate the pricing and ordering of a complete range of grain handling and drying equipment.

After an very successful launch at LAMMA there are over 200 users already registered the

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Win a 8.5tph grain drier ..or a discount of £18,000.00 from a larger drier ordered and delivered in 2013 (terms and conditions apply)*. o commemorate our 65th Year and the launch of the revolutionary on line quoting system EZIquote Perry of Oakley Ltd is running a competition to win the very latest PERRY 8.5tph continuous flow grain drier* or a huge £18,000.00 off an larger model.

Perry’s new drier range incorporates many of the features that have been tested during Harvest 2012 and are the culmination of the first 18 months of an ongoing research and development program.

The main features are: • All galvanized pneumatically operated heavy duty shutter discharge design.

• Large touch screen PLC panel with remote connectivity.

It is designed to BS6399 and BS5950 for structural strength.

The burners can be supplied suitable for Kerosene and Diesel or even gas if required.

This state of the art PLC with 12” touch screen control provides the operator with the

ultimate in drier control features and information recording and connectivity.

Features: • Auto set up for different crop types and moisture contents.

• Automatic recording of all drier temperatures and speeds.

• Fully intuitive touch screen display.

• Remote display and control of the drier available via the internet.

• Alarm messages can be sent by text or e mail.

• Full alarm history and diagnostic screen.

Can also incorporate a fully integrated handling equipment control panel with all of the same remote connectivity features.

The latest PLC panel can be retrofitted to any existing Perry grain drier.

To enter, simply visit www.perryofoakley.co.uk and register

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eziquote system proving it is a useful tool for arable farmers planning possible expenditure.

Customers can enter details of the types of machinery that they want a price for and the system will quote it for them on screen as they wait.

Products can also be ordered on line and the customers can view an interactive map showing the details and websites of all our dealers around the country.

All users registering to use the eziquote system will be entered into our competition to win an 8.5tph grain drier or a discount of £18,000.00 from a larger drier ordered and delivered in 2013 (terms and conditions apply).

Further details on all Perry handling equipment and grain driers can be obtained from our website www.perryofoakley.co.uk by calling 01404 890300 or E mail sales@ perryofoakley.co.uk

.c rc IN t ou A r a ley R ry e k G Fo st a * A gi f o re y o r IN W

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*Terms & conditions apply

30 | Farming Monthly | February 2013

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| LAMMA

Award success for Massey Ferguson MF 5600 The Massey Ferguson MF 5600 Series was honoured with an Award of Merit for the Best New Product or Innovation at the LAMMA show 2013. he tractors, which made their UK debut at the event, attracted many positive comments from throngs of visitors to the busy stand.

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“The MF 5600 Series sets the new standard for loader operations.”

“The MF 5600 Series brings together straight-forward operation with some sophisticated features that provide great comfort and control,” says Andy Prosser, Manager Sales Support, who accepted the Award at the event.

“We are proud to win this award because it supports our conviction that these tractors, which introduce a unique brake-pedal activated neutral, not only set the benchmark for loader operations but also in terms of engine power, torque and manoeuvrability.”

All models are powered by a ground-breaking three cylinder AGCO POWER engine, which is a compact design that uses just diesel, while still meeting the

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stringent emissions regulations with a maintenance-free DOC. The Dyna-4 ECO 16/16 transmission offers superb control, effortless clutchless shifting between speeds and direction and now the option of AutoDrive automatic changing.

Operators will also appreciate the new, spacious cab that is the based on that used on the larger MF 7600 range. This boasts a new right-hand console and controls that provide simple operation and can be specified with a Slimline, Visio or Standard roof as well as being fitted in two positions to exactly suit all customers’ requirements.

The MF 5600 Series sets the new standard for loader operations. The three cylinder engine’s compact dimension ensures excellent manoeuvrability and combines with the transmission’s ease of operation, with a new joystick not only operating the loader, but also changes direction with the same lever. A new automatic high-flow 100 litre/min hydraulic option also speeds up cycle times.

Andy Prosser, Manager Sales Support, with the LAMMA Award of Merit for the Best New Product or Innovation at the 2013 show.

February 2013 | Farming Monthly | 31

| Energy

Farmstar Limited - Marr, Doncaster DN5 7AU T: 01302 786786 Market Weighton, York YO43 3GA T: 01430 875900 Brigg, North Lincs DN2 8NF T: 01652 654944 www.farmstar.co.uk Sharnford LtdMonthly - Lutterworth, Leicestershire LE17 5EH 32 |Tractors Farming | February 2013 T: 01455 209300 www.manitou.co.uk

Anker of Coates - Peterborough PE7 2DD T: 01733 840777 Huntingdon PE28 0AE T: 01480 890990 www.ankerofcoates.co.uk Ravenhill - Hereford HR4 9QJ T: 01432 352333 www.ravenhill.co.uk www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| LAMMA

CLAAS set new used tractor quality benchmark CLAAS has launched a new used approval scheme designed to provide buyers of used CLAAS machines with peace of mind and the confidence that they are investing in a tractor that has been fully checked and prepared to a common high standard which is approved by CLAAS. he scheme has been started for tractors, and it is envisaged that other machines may enter the scheme in the future.

Recent years have seen the value for used tractors increase considerably on the back of currency exchange rates, inflation and more advanced technology.

However, unlike most other vehicle markets, for the farmer looking to invest in a used tractor there is currently no clear benchmark as to the quality level of the tractors being offered.

Where the farmer buying a car, most franchised dealers will be offering used vehicles that are prepared to a set manufacturer’s standard. However, in agriculture this is rarely the case with tractors.

Aside from being more expensive than most cars, the cost implications of a tractor not being up to standard could potentially be very expensive in terms of lost productivity and repairs.

With the introduction of the new CLAAS Approved Used and Field Ready scheme, the buyer can have confidence that the tractor has been fully checked to a high set standard. Only tractors that pass the stringent approval procedure will be offered for sale under the CLAAS Approved Used scheme, and to back this up they will be covered by a 300 hour/3 month warranty and a 0% subsidised finance scheme through CLAAS FINANCE.

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The new CLAAS Approved Used Tractor scheme is available on all CLAAS tractors from the AXOS through to the top-of-therange XERION, and only machines up to five years or 5000 hours old can be entered.

The stringent approval process that dealers have to meet has been set by the CLAAS Technical Service department. To become CLAAS Approved and Field Ready, each tractor has to undergo a 1000 hour service which includes a 45 point check, and an additional 15 point special CLAAS appraisal. The appraisal covers specific checks and tests of the engine, driveline and hydraulic systems, including a Dynometer test, plus a full test and update of all the electronic management systems fitted to the tractor. Finally the tractor is fully valeted, the paintwork checked and touched up where necessary, plus any worn seat or cab components replaced. Having completed all the assessment work, the dealer then has to send all the completed data to CLAAS UK for final approval.

Tractors that meet all the assessment criteria will be offered for sale with the back-up of a 3 month, 300 hour drivetrain warranty and full service report.

They will also be available with a subsidised finance scheme from CLAAS Finance and fixed price service for the next two scheduled services.

With the introduction of the new

CLAAS Approved Used Tractor scheme, this will set a new benchmark for used tractors and help instil confidence that buying a used CLAAS tractor is a sound investment, with many of the

benefits that would normally only be expected with a new tractor, allied to the low cost of ownership associated with buying a used product.

February 2013 | Farming Monthly | 33

| LAMMA

The best gets better with Patchwork at LAMMA More for less was the theme for Patchwork at LAMMA as it launched brand new additions to its class leading BlackBox range. ringing sophisticated features at far lower cost than previously available, both Patchwork’s BlackBox Go and Advance models have both been completely upgraded.

All electronic components are housed in the display so they are now vastly easier to install and move.

The addition of new built-in switching technology gives a cost saving solution to boom switching and headland control – bringing additional efficiency gains to a wider range of applications Huge Cost Savings Patchwork Commercial Director Sue Davies said: “As a result of this additional technology now being built in to our displays, users can benefit from significant additional features without the need for expensive upgrades. We are confident that no other GPS system can do all this at these costs.”

Available at LAMMA for £1500, BlackBox Go now incorporates switching technology, meaning headland control – ideal for

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applications such as potato planting – is available at almost half the price of last year.

On the £1800 BlackBox Advance, section control for up to 4 sections is also included. This saves customers £600 compared to previous solutions – enabling accurate control for older sprayers without the need for a major investment.

Finally, a built-in modem on the BlackBox Advance model will also enable remote support, data transfer and tracking purely for the price of a SIM card – meaning another £400 saved in the tough economic climate.

Webtrack goes mobile In addition, Patchwork showcased its brand new WebTrack Mobile application.

Recognising the demand from agricultural professionals for instant access to information, the new WebTrack Mobile bridges the gap between field and office – allowing users to access and utilise their field map data anywhere.

Free to all WebTrack 3

34 | Farming Monthly | February 2013

customers, the application works on most brands of smart phone or tablet and synchronises instantly with the user’s WebTrack 3 account. It enables three key functions: overlaying maps, measuring field areas and mapping features.

As a result of these features, the WebTrack Mobile user can walk directly to a specific point they have identified on a map in the office. Alternatively, they can map out an exact point when out on foot – be it an area of limited crop growth, weed establishment or slug damage. This information can then be assessed later or shared with an advisor.

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| Energy

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February 2013 | Farming Monthly | 35

| LAMMA

GEA cools its prices on TCool tanks GEA Farm Technologies is helping dairy farmers to beat the January blues by offering a 5% discount on all TCool bulk tanks that are ordered between now and March 2013.

EA Farm Technologies Tank Specialist, Peter Evans, said: “At a time of year when most companies are raising their prices we are pleased that we can offer such a discount – Now really is the time to invest in a bulk tank ready for delivery before the warm summer months.”

Available in a range of sizes between 1,010 litres to 33,500 litres, the TCool bulk tank controls cooling and cleaning to ensure the highest quality milk using the least amount of energy.

TCool combines optimal tank design, high-performance cooling units and superior cleaning technology.

The TCool Expert control unit monitors key factors, ensuring perfect hygiene and minimising operating costs plus it cools, agitates, cleans and monitors every function to ensure the lowest energy usage.

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The Expert control is so intuitive making it extremely easy to use.

Flexible cleaning programmes can be customised to comply with required regulations. Plus farmers can review past performance data at the touch of a button.

A patented digital dipstick is also available which provides automated accurate milk quantity measurement and is recognised by numerous standards authorities.

“Farmers can be sure that with a TCool bulk tank they will get the best milk price, lowest energy costs and the satisfaction that they are reducing the carbon footprint of their farm and now for 5% less than before,” continued Peter.

To find out more call 02476 692 333, email info.geafarmtechnologies.uk@gea .com or visit www.geafarmtechnologies.co.uk.

Knight at LAMMA Several new developments for 2013 on show. he company’s Trailblazer sprayers are now available with 5200 and 6000 litre tanks in addition to the original 3600 and 4200 litre sizes.

Booms are offered up to 40 metres wide. Fundamental tank design remains unaltered, providing reduced axle loadings and good stability. The main tank design also allows multiple wash tanks to be fitted, providing flexible washingout procedures.

The Trailblazers have a rigid drawbar and steering axle, a wellproven design used on previous models, and a Müller GPS-ready controller is also fitted as standard.

Other features include wellprotected valves, twin washing nozzles in the induction hopper and a hydraulically operated parking stand. Optional features include air brakes and air suspension.

Knight’s SP2040, SP2050 and SP2060 self-propelled sprayers are now being fitted with Claasdesigned Vista premium cabs and a new tank design that lowers the centre of gravity and gives better weight distribution and stability,.

The cab includes panoramic

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glazing, automatic airconditioning, high-performance sound insulation, electrically adjustable exterior mirrors and a steering column adjustable for rake and height. The Vista cab is an optional upgrade on 1800series machines.

The new version of the Raven has a lower intermediate toolbeam than the original models, which allows it to work effectively at sub-soiling depths as well as shallower depths for min-till and secondary cultivations.

The machines can be fitted with three or five sub-soil tines as the first row of implements, followed by intermediate tines, two rows of discs and a large-diameter packer roll to finish. Speed-Loc points are fitted as standard equipment on the intermediate tines. The position of the discs and the packer can both be adjusted from the tractor seat, and discs can be lifted clear of the ground for subsoiling.

Tempo info.geafarmtechnologies.uk@gea.com www.gea-farmtechnologies.co.uk

engineering for a better world

GEA Farm Technologies Technologies

36 | Farming Monthly | February 2013

Pushing the limits in precision planting www.vaderstad.com

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| LAMMA

Wet autumn not a Chief makes an impact problem for Dale Drills Visitors were hard pushed to miss Chief at LAMMA!

Great design means fewer issues in inclement conditions. ollowing one of the most difficult autumn drilling periods in memory, many people were on the lookout for a more versatile machine capable of dealing with a variety of different conditions. Visitors to the Dale Drills stand were very impressed with what they saw.

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Company director, James Dale, said, ‘With the wet autumn we have just had most visitors to the stand lead with the same question, 'So how did your drill cope with the wet?' It was great to have a positive answer. With our narrow tines and self cleaning press

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wheels, the Eco-Drill was able to run long after most people had parked other drills up in the shed.

The MTD was also a success in cultivated seedbeds as the same narrow tines created tilth, avoided cutting slots, and ensured seed was consistently covered over.’

‘The improvements made to both drills were well received with many people mentioning how well the drills looked, whilst others were interested to find out more about how the changes made the drills much easier to use.’

‘With orders coming in over the show as well as a good list of people interested in trying the drills in the spring and following autumn, we are very pleased with how the show went and look forward to 'ploughing' into the work it has brought over the coming months.’

Dale Drills have machines available for hire, and invite interested farmers to contact them for more information.

AMMA 2013 proved to be a successful show for Chief Industries UK Ltd, not only for the level of interest shown in the company's products

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and services relating to grain storage, but also for being awarded a certificate of merit for Best Manufacturer’s Stand Outdoors.

February 2013 | Farming Monthly | 37

| Finance

P & D ENGINEERING

TRP LIMITED

COOKS MIDLANDS LTD

GLOUCESTERSHIRE Fleet Lane, Bredon, Tewkesbury, Gloucester GL20 7EF Tel: 01684 772912 www.panddengineering.com

LEICESTERSHIRE Stanton under Bardon, Leicester LE67 9TW Tel: 01530 249191 38 | Farming Monthly www.cooksmidlands.co.uk

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LINCOLNSHIRE Pride Parkway, Enterprise Park, Sleaford NG34 8GL Tel: 01529 300111 www.trp-scotland.co.uk

CRANWORTH FARM SERVICES

NORFOLK High Common, Cranworth, Thetford IP25 7SX Tel: 01362 820391 www.c-f-s.info

KEITH DAVIES AGRICULTURAL

YORKSHIRE HANDLERS LTD

ROMSEY AGRICULTURAL MACHINERY LIMITED

DAY & COLES AGRICULTURAL LTD

YORKSHIRE Murton Lane, Murton, York YO19 5UY Tel:2013 01904 489988 February www.yorkshirehandlers.co.uk

HAMPSHIRE Shorts Farm, Romsey SO51 6DX Tel: 01794 323159 www.romseyag.co.uk

SHROPSHIRE Hem Monor Farm, Hem Lane, Shifnal TF11 9PT Tel: 01952 463840 www.keithdaviesagricultural.co.uk

NORTHAMPTONSHIRE Unit 1-4 Enterprise Court, Newton Close, Park Farm Ind.Est. Wellingborough NN8 6UW www.farmingmonthly.co.uk Tel: 01933 673900

| LAMMA

Spaldings show sales break all records Spaldings experiences best ever show sales of £124,000 at coldest ever LAMMA. paldings have announced that sales from LAMMA 2013 broke all records with £124,000 taken over the two day event. Sales had increased by 2.5% on the previous year to make LAMMA 2013 the most successful show in Spaldings’ history.

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“Our record breaking sales provide clear evidence that there is renewed confidence within the agricultural sector.”

“Despite the freezing temperature and unsettled weather this year’s LAMMA saw a record number of visitors at the two day event” says Roger Chase, Agricultural Sales Director for Spaldings. “Sales from this show are the best we have experienced in our company history.

This can partly be accredited to the better than expected turnout coupled with the buoyant customer mood surrounding future produce prices.”

He believes that LAMMA is the

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perfect first indicator of the positive economic growth that can be expected in 2013.

“Our record breaking sales provide clear evidence that there is renewed confidence within the agricultural sector. This is a strong start to the year particularly as the market last year faced many challenges, most notably those brought about by the inclement weath

New generation driers The 2013 range of Master Driers were released at the Grain Event and incorporate many new features. he popular 12 Ton Model is fully Galvanised and the whole range introduces New Age Technology which can be personalised to meet individual requirements, with capacities from 10 Ton/45 Ton with flexibility in specification.

The principle of drying remains the same but the emphasis has been to make Master Driers user friendly, offering efficient drying and simplified operation with manual or automatic programmes. The new operating systems are incorporated in both Electric and PTO driven Driers.

An Audible Alarm or Auto Cut Off will alert the operator when the Drier is loaded, to avoid overflow of grain with an internal Moisture Meter for monitoring temperature and moisture, with Automatic Cut Off of the Burner at the predetermined moisture.

The Master Eye Telephone Combinator Messaging System will keep you in touch with your Drier, alerting the operator when drying is completed or if the Drier is in need of attention.

One unique feature option available on all models is a “3 Stage Burner”, it is designed with three fuel nozzles which operate in any sequence to give a wide range of

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temperatures. The main advantage is that it is not necessary to change the fuel jet which simplifies the operation of the burner for all types of crop.

Electric Drive Models are becoming more popular as they can be fully automated and are operated by a small Siemens Computer Unit with Touch Button controls.

Incorporating a comprehensive menu control panel which gives the operator many options depending on the crop being handled, allowing for burner operating control and top up facilities to compensate for shrinkage. All programmes are offered with full Automatic Mastermatic Touch Screen Control System with manual override, all of which allows the crop to be dried to meet individual circumstances.

Masters have also introduced a new range of square section fully galvanised wet Grain bins to complement its range of Grain Driers.

They are available from 3- 30 Ton capacities and are supplied as flat pack self-assembly kit.

For more information on the New Generation of Master Driers please contact: - Master Farm Services Tel No: 01787 228450/ 229083 E-mail enquiries@masterfarm.co.uk or visit www.masterfarm.co.uk

February 2013 | Farming Monthly | 39

| LAMMA

McCormick has the X factor at LAMMA 2013 Performance and economy are key features of compact four-cylinder engine in new McCormick X50 Series tractors. he McCormick X50.50 Power Plus exhibited on the LAMMA show stand of GB distributor AgriArgo UK is the most powerful of four new McCormick X50 Series tractors due to become available to farmers in Spring this year.

With power outputs spanning 85hp to 113hp, the tractors are the first anywhere to be powered by the all-new Perkins 850 Series compact four-cylinder diesel engine.

This 3.4-litre unit may have a smaller swept volume than the 4.5-litre Perkins 1104 series engine used in the McCormick T-Max series that the newcomers will replace. But that certainly does not put the X50 models at a disadvantage.

“The high density power and torque output of this efficient engine should make the X50 a lively performer,” says product specialist Paul Wade of AgriArgo UK. “You only have to look at the torque figures for the 113hp version to see that it is more than a match for the 1104 series engine used at present.”

With a peak output of 450Nm, the Perkins 854E-E34TA engine has a 9% torque advantage over the motor it replaces; yet Perkins engineers also report fuel savings of typically 8%.

Both advances come from improvements in combustion efficiency achieved to help meet the Euro Stage 3B / US Tier 4i emissions rules.

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40 | Farming Monthly | February 2013

In addition, an electronically-controlled fuel injection system with high pressure common rail distribution to the injectors provides precise metering and fine atomisation to achieve as clean a burn as possible.

The process of meeting emissions limits is completed by passing the exhaust gases through a particulate filter and oxidation catalyst contained in a single housing and installed neatly beneath the hood – another advantage of the new engine’s compact size.

The filter, which removes at least 90% of all ‘soot’ particles, is self-cleaning under normal operating cycles but has an active regeneration mechanism for times when the tractor is used repeatedly for duties that impose only a light load on the engine. Physical servicing may occasionally be required but not for at least 3000hrs of operation.

The new McCormick X50 tractors will come with a flexible choice of transmissions using either a synchro or power shuttle for foward/reverse selection, and with a threespeed powershift option on the top-spec transmission.

Thanks to the four-post cab design, operators will get excellent all-round visibility as well as wide doorways making it easy to repeatedly jump on and off the machine. A new instrument panel provides a clear view of essential information.

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| LAMMA

Performance without compromise

Griffith Elder weighs in New software features for 2013 enhance Griffith Elder weighbridge products.

With a Tomahawk, it’s Black and White. n 2013 Teagle are celebrating the 30th Anniversary of the first Tomahawk Bale shredder with two special edition production machines from their exciting new range of Feeder Bedders.

A prize draw will be run during 2013 with the winner choosing one of these machines to use for a year.

The first machine, a Tomahawk 8500, sets a new standard in performance and features a wider body and crossbeater for easier loading and greater throughput, a larger fan for increased blow distance, up to 25m, as well as Hardox in the fan housing for outstanding durability.

The second machine, a Tomahawk 8150, features the unique ‘Dual Chop’ system which incorporates a set of retractable blades that can be repositioned at the touch of a button in the tractor cab, changing straw output from short chop (around 40mm) to no chop, and back again when desired in a matter of seconds.

This system is popular on farms

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where short straw is required for a combination of cubicles or addition to a TMR system, as well as long straw being required for bedding down loose yards.

All Teagle Feeder Bedders in the 8100, 8500, 9090 and 1010 ranges are available with 2 years warranty and competitive finance packages for the 2013 season.

For machinery from a name you can trust visit www.teagle.co.uk.

Alternatively, please contact Teagle on 01872 560592.

Centerliner – ‘easy to use, reliable, accurate’ Also new in 2013 is an update to the Centerliner Fertiliser Spreader, with the application of Stainless Steel throughout the spreading system for superior durability. Top end models now feature connectivity to GPS systems for control of Auto Shutoff and Variable Rate as standard, with weigh cells also being available.

Please find our latest brochure in this press pack and do not hesitate to contact us if you would like more information.

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s an ongoing development of Ton-Tel TM weighbridge software, the software team have developed further products to use with their weighbridge indicators.

The new development at the entry/mid level of weighbridges is the new WB6RF weighbridge indicator that can be Radio Frequency activated from the tractor cab. The working applications are for all the multi axle weighing products that require axle sets to be weighed and added together. This unique product allows a farmer to record the empty tare weight of tractor and trailer combinations to the indicator memory then on weighing a load from the combine, the driver can apply the tractor + trailer tare weight without the need for getting out of the cab.

This development will save vital time in the tipping cycle and eliminates the need to re-weigh the vehicle or the need to stop and get out of the vehicle. The indicator printer will automatically produce a ticket and record the transaction to its memory, should

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the ticket get lost or destroyed The Ton-Tel TM Agricultural Storage software was designed by in house programmers in consultation with farmers, contractors and grain merchants and an ongoing development has been the creation of an archive to store data from the main database.

“This development will save vital time in the tipping cycle” This feature will allow data to be backed up (in an encrypted format) to maintain database performance and allow retrieval to other computers for reports and analysis.

For further information on these features please contact sales@griffith-elder.com

INTEREST

or visit: w www.teagle.co.uk ww.teagle.co.uk February 2013 | Farming Monthly | 41

| LAMMA

Kubota’s market leading tractors on show at LAMMA Kubota took its tractors and machinery on the road earlier this year to showcase a selection of the market leading range at LAMMA 2013. he company profiled the M60 range for the first time at the show. Offering the latest in engine technology, the M60 range sparked the interest of many visitors to the Kubota stand.

As well as ensuring high performance for users thanks to its advanced fully sychronised transmission and PTO technology, the M60 range is Euro stage IIIB emission compliant.

The range comprises the M9960 and the M8560, offering 100HP and 85.5HP respectively, with both tractors featuring 36 x 36 multi stage transmission, hydraulic shuttle and an impressive maximum speed of 40kph. A work cruise function is standard on both models, ensuring consistent RPM control, while the creep speed, autohitch and hydraulic trailer braking ensure the tractors are easy to use.

Both models incorporate a new dashboard layout with a digital LED panel, providing useful information about the tractor’s performance. The slanted onepiece bonnet ensures easy access, which in turn makes

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maintenance quick and simple.

Visitors to the Kubota stand were also able to view the M-GX range of tractors – the M135GX and the M110GX – which was launched at last year’s LAMMA. The two tractors in the range both offer cutting edge technology packaged in a machine that reduces workload and increases productivity. The M110GX features a turbo charged 110HP engine, while the M135GX offers 135HP, ensuring customers can choose what best suits their needs. Both tractors are built with a 4 cylinder CRS engine, as well as intelligent features including PTO and RPM control.

For demanding jobs, the M135GX encompasses a range of performance enhancing features as standard. The 3 stage suspension and high performance hydraulics make light work of heavy-duty tasks, working together to deliver enhanced productivity.

Both machines offer exceptional lifting capacities, with the M110GX capable of lifting 5000kg, and the M135GX able to lift 6100kg. A wide range of implements can also be

42 | Farming Monthly | February 2013

attached quickly and easily, so users can speed up the time in between different jobs. For large areas, time spent turning will also be reduced, with Kubota’s bevelgear front axle and bi-speed turn feature making it effortless to change direction.

As well as reliable, powerful and versatile machines, the M-GX range also incorporates a cleverly designed cab that offers enhanced visibility, as well as being spacious with no centre pillars and a wide rear view for unobstructed observations. Both models within the range feature ergonomically

designed displays and controls, as well as a finger touch shuttle lever, all located around the steering wheel for easy access and operation. Users will also benefit from air conditioning, power steering, a radio CD player and a deluxe air ride seat, which are all fitted as standard.

The M-GX range of tractors give operators excellent value for money, reliability and performance and dedicated supported through aftersales services provided through the national network of Kubota’s specialist dealers.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Buildings

Animal housing ventilation Concern has been expressed about the extent to which farmers understand the importance and value of providing adequate and appropriate ventilation in livestock buildings. t was mooted to more than 50 members of the Rural and Industrial Design and Building Association (RIDBA), most of whom are agricultural building contractors,

by Jim Loynes, former ADAS buildings design specialist and now assistant head of engineering at Harper Adams University College.

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“A well-designed ventilation system (natural or mechanical) helps to remove dust, excess moisture and bacteria from a livestock building while providing a minimum air flow rate and a draught-free lying area for stock.”

Mr Loynes, BSc (Hons), CEng, MIAgrE, was talking about the natural ventilation of livestock housing to RIDBA’s quarterly council meeting, held at Patshull Park Hotel, Golf and Country Club in Pattingham, in the college’s

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home county of Shropshire.

In his presentation Mr Loynes said that a “general purpose” building was invariably what a farmer paid for when what he really required could only be provided by good design.

He said the design process needed to start by calculating the outlet area at the ridge of a building (the gap required to allow stale air out) and then considering how this area can be replicated at the inlet (openings below the eaves to allow fresh air in).

The size of the inlet gaps or open ridge needed to be based on the building’s dimensions and expected stocking densities, with a main concern being that rain could enter the building through an open ridge. However, this had been solved with the development of a protected open ridge.

“The open ridge and protected open ridge have both been available for some time now.

However, either farmers don’t know about the benefits of good ventilation or don’t want to pay for an open ridge or protected open ridge to be installed. Or is it a

question of ease of installation?” he asked the RIDBA members.

In his opinion, alternatives to the open and protected open ridges, such as “crown-cranked” or “twopiece” ridges, did not provide adequate outlet area for most livestock housing densities even though sufficient inlet area could be formed using spaced (often referred to as Yorkshire) boarding.

Suppliers such as RIDBA members needed to know exactly how the farmer intended to use the building and what animals he intended to house in it (in terms of numbers, breed, housing period, feeding, bedding, slurry system and so on), and perhaps more importantly, which QA scheme (such as Red Tractor) the farmer aimed to satisfy.

“Unless you know exactly this, in my opinion there is no way you can provide a building with even adequate natural ventilation openings in it,” said Mr Loynes.

“Furthermore, when considering stock housing, a general purpose building, which is one the purchaser can adapt to meet his needs, will not satisfy the needs of

the stock. Over-design may be a better solution as it is easier to close up a building than to open it up to ventilation.”

A well-designed ventilation system (natural or mechanical) helps to remove dust, excess moisture and bacteria from a livestock building while providing a minimum air flow rate and a draught-free lying area for stock.

He referred to RIDBA’s Farm Buildings Handbook which includes an updated version of the SFBIU’s design guide which caters for larger livestock, and is available to farmers through www.ridba.org.uk.

Farmers requiring more advice about ventilating their livestock buildings can contact Mr Loynes on jloynes@harper-adams.ac.uk or RIDBA on secretary@ridba.org.uk.

February 2013 | Farming Monthly | 43

| Buildings

RIDBA conference date

Defend your stock

Major industry conference on the future design of farm buildings.

Effective weather protection with Secure Windbreaks.

arm building design is changing, with new materials, techniques and regulation paving the way for improved animal welfare and structural integrity.

In the first event of its kind, the Wessex branch of the Rural & Industrial Design & Building Association (RIDBA) is holding a national conference on Friday, 19th April to examine the issues and opportunities surrounding farm building design over the next 10-15 years.

Attracting high profile international speakers, the conference will consider the impact of animal welfare and performance on building design; increasing landscape protection; emerging planning and agricultural policy changes and other topical issues.

“As the farming industry develops, buildings are getting larger and having to deliver more than ever before,” says Peter Chance, Wessex secretary of RIDBA. “There is increasing pressure to protect the countryside, and planning permission is becoming more and more difficult to obtain. Design

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and siting of farm buildings is vitally important – but we must always remember that farming made the countryside as we all know and enjoy it and must be allowed to adapt to change.”

The event, which will be held in the stunning Georgian Guildhall in Bath, will be followed by the national RIDBA AGM and the inaugural Farm and Agricultural Building Awards. “Farm buildings are capable of delivering more than just a roof over the heads of animals, crops or machinery,” says Mr Chance. “With the right design and build, they can be both functional and attractive. It is only right that we celebrate those that excel in achieving their objectives: Complementing the local landscape, being fit for purpose and designed with sustainability in mind.”

Writer and broadcaster Kate Humble will be the guest speaker at the dinner and will present the FAB awards.

A full programme of the event is available on www.ridba.org.uk. To reserve a place book online or contact Tony Hutchinson, national RIDBA secretary, on 01449 676049.

44 | Farming Monthly | February 2013

ecure Windbreaks have been designed in response to farmers wanting a tough long lasting alternative to traditional timber boarding for weatherproofing stock sheds. They can also be used to reduce draughts from above exposed doors and feed runs whilst still providing ventilation. Manufactured from the same long lasting UV resistant material used in our tried and tested Secure Covers silage covers, Secure Windbreaks have the same inherent toughness and resilience. However if accidentally damaged the material will not fray, overcoming the shredding problems seen in some woven windbreaks.

Secure Windbreaks are very efficient in allowing fresh air and light into buildings whilst providing weather protection and can be quickly used to economically convert store sheds into comfortable, airy livestock shelters.

Secure Windbreaks are held in place by a hook and ratchet system which makes it simple and quick to install. The tensioning

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straps are not fixed directly to the windbreak fabric but instead run through sleeves. This ensures that the windbreak fabric is not under tension thus increasing longevity.

Our confidence in the quality of Secure Windbreaks means that we offer a full 10 year UV guarantee.

Secure Windbreaks are available in a standard range of sizes from 4.75m (15 feet) to 13.7m (45 feet). Due to the nonfray fabric structure the standard sizes are fully adjustable to any width of bay. The windbreaks come in 4 heights 1.5m, 2m, 2.5m and 3m. In addition we can also make non-standard sizes.

For more information about Secure Windbreaks please contact:Thomas & Fontaine Ltd Tel: 0800 7832804 or visit our website : www.securecovers.com

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Buildings

Increase cow comfort and health – invest in the right solution. aving adequate ventilation in your building should be a top priority to make sure your herd benefits from the optimum environment to improve health and wellbeing. It is important to maintain circulation of fresh, clean air in your buildings, minimising the risk of disease and heat stress for your cows.

A Galebreaker Ventilation Solution can provide this ideal environment, allowing fresh air into the building using one of our side wall solutions, and providing sufficient exhaust for stale air through the Galebreaker Light Ridge. A Combination of side wall system and light ridge will provide you with a healthy and light environment for you and your cows.

Galebreaker side systems start with the simple clip on Bayscreen to take the place of traditional cladding materials and work up to the Variable Ventilation System (VVS), which can span the entire length of a building and be opened and closed as the weather conditions dictate. For complete peace of mind, the VVS can be fully automated using a weather

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station so that, no matter where you are or what time it is, you know that your livestock are in the best environment possible.

The Galebreaker Light Ridge adds the finishing touch to the Total Ventilation Solution, providing a covered air outlet to remove the stale air from your building. Designed to be an “active system”, the light ridge uses its wind walls to help draw air out of the building, maintaining the flow of fresh air through the building.

The roof panels of the light ridge are made from toughened PVC that allows high levels of light into the building the ridge can be fitted to new or existing buildings and come in widths of 1m, 2m and 3m.

Galebreaker have brought out their own VVS controller (pictured) called the V40 and V10 which has various new features.

For full details of your ventilation solution options, please contact Galebreaker on 01531 637900 or your local representative.

February 2013 | Farming Monthly | 45

| Buildings

Cemsix has it covered!

Cemsix provides ‘green’ roof for impressive agricultural building. embrit’s Cemsix has been used for an on-going project at Langdon Mill Farm in Wales. A huge 2.5 acres (approx. 1 hectare of product) of Cemsix roofing has been installed at the farm over the last five years, to create well protected dairy units, which blend into the natural surroundings of the farm.

Langdon Mill Farm is a dairy farm located in the beautiful village of Kilgetty, close to the seaside villages of Saundersfoot in Pembrokeshire. Brothers David and Hugh James run the dairy unit of 700 cows, in partnership with their mother Margaret. The family farm was supplied Cemsix by John Morris Ltd in an on-going project that demonstrates the consistency of Cemsix and the enduring working relationship between the parties.

One remarkable roof at Langdon Mill Farm features Cemsix so impregnated with organic matter, it has created a truly ‘green roof’, which blends into the surrounding tranquil countryside. Cemsix is a moisture permeable

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product that can withstand parasitic vegetation.

This unusual roof demonstrates how humid air within the building gradually evaporates into the atmosphere and in this case provides sufficient moisture to support organic growth! “Fibre cement is the perfect material for countryside buildings,� says Ged Ferris, Marketing Manager at Cembrit. “A Cemsix building can accommodate large numbers of livestock at high density, with high levels of humidity internally, and can be used in single skin format without corrosion damage. It is also the material of choice due to its long-lasting and resilient build quality. In its natural grey, Cemsix weathers down so that the building is less obtrusive. Cembrit also supplies “weathered� appearance and fully coated colour options should there be a planning requirement to camouflage or tone down the appearance of the farm building.�

Incorporating the latest technological advances, Cemsix allows designers to clad agricultural or industrial buildings in a Class 0

fire rated, rust and rot-proof material that will last for decades. Manufactured using Portland cement, together with a formulation of superior blended synthetic and cellulose fibres and reinforced with strengthening strips and available with superior colouration systems, Cemsix is produced to the highest European standard.

Using skills built up over 80 years; Cembrit offers a wide range of cladding panels, corrugated sheet and natural and man-made roofing slate. Quality levels at group factories are rigorously maintained to high standards with many products manufactured under the control of ISO 9001 and British Board of AgrÊment. Cembrit UK is a member of Cembrit Holding A/S (formerly the Dansk Eternit Holding A/S) of Denmark, one of Europe’s major building material producers of fibre reinforced cement products for the roofing and cladding industry.

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| Buildings

It’s a cows life New ventilation system helps provide the perfect ‘cow environment’. eoffrey Tinsley milks approximately 200 cows near Dromara in Co Down. The last number of months have seen the completion of a new cubicle house on the farm, the specification of which includes the new CowCare Ultima louvered ventilation system.

“The positive impact already made by the new system has been more than significant and the amount of natural daylight entering

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the new shed is tremendous.

However, the system also ensures that the animals are kept in a totally dry and draught free environment at all times.

“The system was installed on the south facing wall of the new shed. So it is strategically placed to ensure that the maximum levels of natural light are allowed enter the building throughout the year.” said Geoffrey.

CowCare Systems’ John

Better by design Improving profitability through farm infrastructure. he Agricultural Buildings Show takes place this year at the Royal Highland Showground, Ingliston, Edinburgh on Wednesday 20th March 2013. This unique event provides the farmer with a practical insight into the planning, design and construction of all kinds of installations from the simplest barn through to a complete new grain store or milking parlour.

Investing in buildings is one of the most significant and long lasting decisions a farmer will make, with the results being a vital factor in the success or otherwise of the business in the years to come. The Agricultural Building Show has been set up to act as reference point covering all faces of farm buildings. Its aim is to bring together farmers and the trade under one roof to discuss the best possible solutions for the farm business.

“A new farm building – for housing stock, grain storage or a milking parlour – is probably the largest investment a farm is likely to make in a generation,” says Andy Newbold of show organiser, FarmSmart Events.

“As severe weather in past winters has shown, it is vital to ensure the structure is designed and built to the correct standards using qualified and reputable contactors. These are the companies that exhibit at the event.”

The show is organised in association with Rural & Industrial Design and Building Association (RIDBA), which has detailed knowledge of the function and environmental requirements of modern agriculture and industrial buildings. Its members, many of

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which will be at the event, offer a breadth of expertise about the siting, planning, design and construction of farm buildings.

This expertise also extends to conversion for diversification and other rural building design issues.

Alongside the exhibition, is a seminar programme where visitors can also learn about the latest building and planning issues, as well as hear about the practical aspects of managing a project from start to finish. This year’s planned presentations will include RIDBA’s short listed contenders for the FAB awards, and why these buildings fulfilled the judge’s criteria of aesthetics, functionality and sustainability.

Also Graeme Lochhead from Lochhead Planning & Design will talk through specific issues around designing and building housing for cattle.

Sharkey and Trevor Sinclair were recent visitors to the Tinsley farm.

“The new ventilation system has a unique and patented design,” John confirmed.

“The most innovative feature of the new design is the fact that when fully open the louvers prevent rain getting in the building, This is a problem with traditional curtain systems that require to close during a rain shower to prevent the building getting wet.

Another first for the system is that the fresh air is directed upwards aiding the chimney effect, resulting in improving efficiency in extracting the stale air. These two facts makes the Ultima Louver a superior choice over existing systems.

Reduced building costs represent another benefit as there is no overhang requirement on the side of the building which features the new system.”

Trevor Sinclair went on to point out that automatic and manual versions of the new ventilation system are available.

He added: “Geoffrey has opted for the automated version. The system guarantees over 90% light

penetration and comes with a ten year warranty.

John Sharkey pointed out that the ventilation system is manufactured at the CowCare factory in Ballymoney.

He continued: “We are already receiving numerous inquiries about the new system from both dairy & beef farmers throughout the UK and Ireland.”

“It represents a genuine breakthrough in terms of providing dairy cows with an improved environment, which will generate a real payback in terms of improved milk output and fertility.”

Commenting on the confirmation that FMP (Farm Modernisation Programme) Tranche 3 letters of offer are now being issued, John Sharkey went on to point out that the company manufactures and supplies a range of eligible items including footbaths; cubicle systems, robotic and automated slurry scraping systems, cow scratch brushes and lighting systems.

For further information, contact 077323 48225 or visit the CowCare website www.cowcaresystems.com

Agricultural Building Show Event Facts: Date: Wed 20th March 2013 Address: Royal Highland Showground, Ingliston, Edinburgh EH28 8NB Tickets: £10 if booked in advance (£15 on the door) Telephone: 0845 4900 142 Web: www.farm-smart.co.uk/abs

February 2013 | Farming Monthly | 47

| Energy

Biodiversity shines through with new solar farm Higher Knapp Farm in Knapp near Taunton, Somerset has recently rented out a small percentage of its land to solar power generator, Lightsource Renewable Energy.

he land will now accommodate a solar farm generating 1.5 MW of green energy – the equivalent of enough power for around 442 households, which is more than half of the parish of North Curry.

Lightsource has consulted closely with Taunton Deane Borough Council throughout the planning process, as well as engaging with North Curry Parish Council.

The principal issue raised at the initial meeting with the Parish Council back in early November 2012 was that of visibility. This concern was focused on the eastern border where the site slopes upwards. Lightsource duly planned the new solar farm so that it lay in the lower, most level areas of the land, avoiding the eastern slope. In addition, in accordance with the recommendations of Taunton Deane Borough Council, Lightsource will be planting a hazel coppice to screen the site on the eastern boundary as a condition of planning approval.

Connor McGuigan, Business Development Director for Lightsource, comments, “When we develop a new solar farm, we are entering into an agreement with the landowner and council for a period of 25 years. Therefore we are required to demonstrate that the land we build on is protected and used correctly to its fullest potential in order to obtain planning permission”.

Conor continues, “We are strong advocates of optimising the opportunity that a solar farm presents to enhance site biodiversity. Higher

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Knapp Farm will not only benefit from a new hazel coppice, but a species rich wildflower mix will be planted beneath and between the solar panel rows, creating a more diverse habitat.”

As part of the original planning application, Lightsource submitted a detailed flood risk assessment, which was reviewed by the Environmental Agency, who concluded that with an appropriate surface water management plan, the development would not increase flood risk within the site or surrounding area.

Lightsource has prepared and submitted a detailed surface water management plan to the Council which proposes a swale system that will improve site run off and drainage.

“Our tenancy duration runs for a long period of time and it is imperative that we address any concerns like flooding risks upfront to ensure there will be no impact on the surrounding area. It is in our best interests to work with the council and address local concerns collectively” Conor adds.

Unlike some other forms of renewable energy, solar farms have negligible impact on the land they stand on. They are noise and emission free, and because they have no moving parts they do not harm wildlife. They also have less visual impact than wind farms or nuclear plants and are much easier to screen using natural planting. Another common misconception is that it’s essential for the sun to be shining, when in fact ordinary daylight is sufficient to generate solar energy.

It goes without saying that the atrocious weather throughout 2012 has put many farmers to the test. However, as at Higher Knapp Farm, increasing numbers have been discovering a way to reap a weatherproof, guaranteed income over a 25 year period – at no costs to themselves. They can achieve this by renting out land or roof space to Lightsource, the UK’s largest solar energy generator. There is no risk of any default on rental payments because Lightsource is backed by 25 year government investment schemes, making it a guaranteed secure tenant.

Any farmer or landowner with a site of at least 6 acres wishing to discuss its suitability as a solar farm should contact 0333 200 0755 or email harvest@lightsource-re.co.uk. More information and free educational resource on solar power and climate change can also be found at www.lightsource-re.co.uk

TGC secures planning for 3.47MW solar PV project Independent renewable energy project developer, TGC Renewables, has successfully secured planning permission for a 3.47MW solar project near Hayle, Cornwall. he project will provide the farmer landowner with a guaranteed rental income for the next 25 years and deliver enough energy to the local grid to power 796 homes.

The project, located approximately 1.6km southeast of Hayle, will be constructed on 6.2

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hectares of class 3b agricultural grazing land. The ground-mounted design will utilise 198 racking tables which will hold mounted solar panels made up of approximately 12,000 solar modules. The design also allows for the land to be mixed-use so that the farmer has the option to

48 | Farming Monthly | February 2013

graze sheep on the site while the solar project is live.

TGC Renewables in-house staff undertook a range of activities to obtain approval for the project including rigorous feasibility and liaison with the local planning authority, parish and members of the community.

Roy Amner, Director at TGC Renewables said “We are delighted that after detailed consultation all interested parties, our planning team secured the full support of the Strategic Planning Committee for this development.”

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Energy

Small-scale wind energy generation Nothing compares when it comes to generating significant income from a very small piece of your land writes Graham Hygate of Fine Energy Ltd. ince the feed-in tariff was introduced nearly three years ago, the idea of putting one or two small wind turbines up on your farm has become a standard item on the checklist for landowners looking to

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diversify. The advantages are clear – the technology has virtually no effect on your ability to farm the land and the gross income figures in a windy country like the UK look very attractive – but there are many difficulties to overcome

Energy Now Expo 2013 Nearly half of agriculture industry concerned about the future of UK farming. any farmers and landowners in the UK are concerned about the future of the industry, according to research carried out ahead of Energy Now Expo 2013. Nearly half (42%) of farmers and landowners expressed concerns, however 95 per cent believe that renewable energy will play a vital role in the future of farming in the UK. The research has revealed that although many farmers are researching renewable energy solutions for their business, over half find the available options confusing and are discovering there are many issues preventing them from installing technology. Planning permission issues, lack of understanding about the range of options and inability to pay up-front costs are some of the main barriers; however, all of these can be addressed by partnering with the right renewable energy solution providers.

A high proportion (87.8 per cent) of those surveyed have already researched energy solutions and nearly two thirds (60.3%) have installed some form of renewable energy technology.

70.2% estimate that their installed renewable energy technology will save them up to £25K over five years. 5.4% believe they will save £1million plus.

Energy Now carried out the research ahead of their fourth annual Energy Now Expo, which showcases renewable energy opportunities available to agricultural and rural communities.

David Jacobmeyer, Energy Now Expo organiser said: “Renewable energy solutions are a strong proposition for farmers and landowners looking to reduce their overheads and

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also generate new revenue streams. At Energy Now Expo in February we will be running conference streams offering practical advice to delegates, with the aim of demystifying renewables.”

The event, which takes place on 13-14th February at the Telford International Centre, Shropshire will provide visitors with the opportunity to participate in a multi streamed conference in which industry experts will present and discuss the very latest developments in renewable energy within the farming community. Dick Strawbridge will also be presenting at the event, providing an amusing explanation of what eco-friendly solutions have worked for him since moving to his Cornish smallholding and started filming his series for the BBC 'It’s not easy being green' in 2005.

The exhibition area will also boast a low-emission vehicle area, showcasing the latest in electric, hydrogen and hybrid vehicles, plus an energy efficiency zone in both the exhibition and the conference promoting and explaining the best practices in energy management.

Admission to the exhibition is free for all those who preregister. Free conference passes are also available for Energy Now magazine subscribers as well as members of the NFU, CLA, Anglia Farmers, TFA, and Woldmarsh Producers – providing they pre-register. More information can be found at www.energynowexpo.co.uk

before landowners can get to the point where they stand back and watch the turbine turn.

There are significant technical issues. For example grid capacity the ability of the local electricity network to accept power from distributed energy generators - is fast being used up as the number of energy generators increases way beyond what was anticipated when these networks were designed.

Closer to home - and a bigger issue for many landowners – is the impact of a proposed wind turbine on neighbouring residents and businesses. The key to dealing with this is to design your development with due regard for, and in consultation with, the occupants of nearby buildings.

This requires a thorough understanding of visual impact and noise, together with the willingness to consult sympathetically and adjust the design of the development where appropriate to accommodate feedback.

Increasingly landowners are choosing to rent out their land and

let a developer take on the risks, the complexity and the debt required to make projects like this succeed. The income raised will always be less than what might have been achieved with a DIY approach, but with ground rents as high as £30,000 per year on offer for one sixth of an acre of your land, and with feed-in tariffs set to fall from January 2014, the zero-cost option land rental approach is looking more and more attractive.

Fine Energy rents small parcels of land suitable for small-scale (up to 500kW) wind turbine developments from UK landowners, obtains planning consents, negotiates grid connection offers and works with the turbine manufacturer or one of its other investors to construct and operate the project.

February 2013 | Farming Monthly | 49

| Energy

What is Anaerobic Digestion?

And why should it be of interest to farmers? hat is AD? Well, put simply, Anaerobic Digestion or AD is the natural breakdown of organic matter without the presence of air.

Both vegetable and animal based material is converted into biogas (Methane and CO2) and the methane content can be utilised to increase farm profit margins by either offsetting the operating energy costs such as electricity and heating or by selling the electricity or gas to the national grid.

In a recent report by RASE (Royal Agricultural Society of England) between 90 and 100 million tonnes of slurry are produced on UK farms (plus other solid manure from beef and poultry farms), with attendant odour and greenhouse gas (GHG) emission problems, as well as potential for run-off which pollutes watercourses.

There are numerous benefits of AD which include: • improved slurry handling; • the ability to target crop nutrients; • increased nutrient uptake; • increased spreading windows; • less crop taint and decreased

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re-grazing times; • significant odour reduction when compared with slurries ; • a reduced/nil reliance on fossil based fertilisers; • reduced reliance on fossil fuelderived heat; • a vastly decreased potential for watercourse pollution; • fewer emissions to air (odour, ammonia and GHGs); • environmentally friendly farm diversification.

In other words, on-farm anaerobic digestion offers a significant step towards more sustainable farming. It is for these reasons that the UK Government and the agriculture industry see anaerobic digestion as the ideal way to treat slurry. The animal slurry alone has a methane potential of around 1 billion m3 or 10 billion kWh of energy per year, in monetary terms with current incentives £1.5 billion PA: looking at this in another way, if this material is not digested, then the estimated GHG potential is 3 M tonnes CO2 equivalent based on DECC 2009 greenhouse gas emissions data.

The UK currently has 92 operating AD plants with hundreds

50 | Farming Monthly | February 2013

more in planning or construction, making some headway towards the vision of 1000 farm based plants set by the NFU. Atlas Bioenergy Ltd have over 30 years of process knowledge in the manufacturing and waste industries and are determined to help the farming community meet their goals with innovative AD solutions, we design, integrate,

manage, build and maintain plants from <50kWe to >1MWe and use where available and practical UK based manufacturers equipment, supporting British Jobs.

To find out more and arrange an initial consultation call Altas Bioenergy Ltd on 01753 743000.

CO2Sense investment Farm-based renewable energy project receives vital investment for new AD plant. business set up by a Cumbrian farm and a renewable energy developer has received £450,000 investment to develop an onsite 250kW anaerobic digestion (AD) plant from low-carbon expert consultancy, CO2Sense.

Farmers, Phillip and James Stanley, identified AD technology as a means to diversify their farm business and generate an additional consistent income stream. The new company called Stanley Renewable Energy ltd has been set up in partnership with AD specialists, JFS & Associates, to build, own and operate the plant. The business approached CO2Sense to provide a significant portion of the necessary capital to kick-start the project.

The AD project will run on grass silage and farm yard manures generated by the farm. It is expected that the plant, which will become fully operational in the autumn of 2013, will have the capacity to produce around 2 million kWh of electricity each year, enough to power 450 homes. The digestate – which is the material remaining after the anaerobic digestion of live feedstock - produced will be used as a soil improver on the farms own land.

Jemma Benson, Principal Consultant at CO2Sense, says: “Investment in renewables is an effective way for farmers to generate new consistent income streams. Through Anaerobic Digestion farmers can manage and recycle their waste in way that is environmentally friendly, beneficial to their land and makes money through the Government’s Feed-in-Tariff.

“CO2Sense has invested over £11 million in renewable energy projects across the UK and we are witnessing a growing demand for investment in AD projects, particularly from businesses in

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Jemma Benson

agricultural and food industries, which have organic feedstocks”.

Peter Johnson, from JFS & Associates, says: “This is the first of five farm projects we will complete in 2013 totalling £9 million of development. Our aim is to offer farmers a genuine joint venture opportunity. We were not interested in building a largescale power plant in the countryside or radically altering the way they have farmed for generations. Our plants are sized and designed to dovetail into the existing farm business with as little change as possible. The Stanley family embraced this approach and we are all very excited about project. We are already discussing possible farm diversification projects that will use the waste heat from the plant.Being an organic farm James and Philip are particularly keen on using the digestate (biofertiliser) that the plant will produce, with predicted yield increases of cira 20%”.

In addition to AD, CO2Sense also invests and advises on biomass, heat networks and all forms of renewable energy, as well as energy efficiency and waste projects. For more information on CO2Sense’s investment fund please contact jemma.benson@co2sense.co.uk.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Energy

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February 2013 | Farming Monthly | 51

| Energy

Sepcom separator

CH4e has designed a simple

Unique features make the Sepcom hard to beat.

Capable of efficiently harvesting significant amounts of biogas from head of cattle or more and is set to become a feasible solution to

he Sepcom separator is already used in Europe in Anaerobic Digestion (AD) plants occasionally to prepare the material before the digester.

However, normally, the Sepcom separator is used to separate the digested material. In this situation the Sepcom is fitted with a stainless steel screw as the temperature of the digestate can exceed 30o C.

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“The first UK Sepcom bio unit has been working at Kemble Farms in Gloucestershire for over two years” A unique header tank controls a head of pressure of the digestate into the screw inlet, giving a constant force feed into the screen and screw. (we also offer an optional holding hopper) Another advantage of the Sepcom separator is the diaphragm outlet.

This simple device allows a backpressure to the separated material to increase separation and this is further improved by adding a second diaphragm to the outlet. The diaphragm holds the solid digestate 360º preventing the plug from

becoming dislodged and falling out.

The Sepcom Bio 065 can cope up to 65m3hr at 30% solids and can cope with an ST of between 2% and 16%.

A special stainless steel chute is fitted to the outlet that holds the plug creating a greater backpressure, and retains the plug when the separator stops. A 5.5kw motor drives the unit.

We use an inverter to run an auto reverse rotation of the screw to help clean the screen helping to reduce the servicing time.

We have a large number of sepcoms now installed within UK AD plants.

The first UK Sepcom bio unit has been working at Kemble Farms in Gloucestershire for over two years and another Sepcom is working at Reaseheath College AD plant, again with very good results.

Greencrop Irrigation also supplies a full range of pumps and shredder pumps, which are used to handle liquid based materials. The pumps, manufactured by Veneroni, are of a very high quality and low maintenance and can be used to feed slurry or digestate to the Sepcom separator.

For further details contact howard@greencrop.co.uk

52 | Farming Monthly | February 2013

hrough its innovative approach, technology and engineering, CH4e enables the processing of large volumes of feedstock in a significantly shortened time. As well as heat and power, the CH4e system will provide extra slurry handling. A de-waterer, which comes as part of the process, means a reduction in slurry spreading. The resulting by-product, known as digestate, is spread in the form of liquid that accelerates grass growth. Its small footprint means it only requires 28 day prior notification for planning purposes and simple permitting requirements. Adopting this system will reduce the carbon footprint of the farm, a benefit which is increasingly important to the agricultural community and their customers.

CH4e technology has been developed by an experienced management team who understand the needs of farmers, the design of AD and its financing. It is developing facilities under which CH4e can structure a 20 year partnership where there is no capital outlay by the farmer for installation, line upgrade or associated on- costs.

CH4e will derive revenue through the FiT and RHI schemes and also through selling surplus energy to the

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grid. The farmer will enjoy the benefits of free electricity and heat, potential revenue share, extra slurry storage and less slurry to spread on the fields.

CH4e understands the commitment necessary on both sides to fulfil this long term relationship, and so commits to the farmer in a number of other ways: CH4e will maintain, service and remote monitor the system. Daily input from the farmer is kept to a minimum, enabling the farmer to concentrate on what he or she does best: run their farm. Installation and commissioning is very quick and efficient, with minimum disruption to the farm at this time, and the highest standards of health and safety are adhered to. CH4e also plans to bring new technologies to its farming partners, and is uniquely placed to do this through its links with the innovation industry and IP Group Plc, one of the UK’s premier investors in smart green technology like CH4e.

In partnering with CH4e, it seems evident that farmers can expect to gain financially and achieve independence from the grid - all via this efficient, small footprint AD system that takes their waste from arable and livestock farming and converts it into sustainable energy.

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| Energy

yet innovative Anaerobic Digestion (AD) technology slurry and turning the results into a renewable source of heat and power, it is aimed at dairy farms with approximately 300 the growing costs and pressures faced by all those involved in farming today.

Sustainability Live 2013 The ultimate event for the UK’s energy, water and energy from waste industries. ustainability Live returns to the NEC, Birmingham on 16-18 April 2013.

Comprising three shows - NEMEX energy Live, IWEX water Live and the brand new EfW EXPO energy from waste Live - this unique event will showcase the latest products and services from leading companies to thousands of industry visitors.

As well as the opportunity for visitors to meet hundreds of exhibitors face-to-face to discuss their individual company needs and requirements, each show will be running free to attend CPD-accredited seminar programmes.

There are hundreds of seminars to choose from, featuring expert speakers offering insight and advice into the latest industry developments, as well as showcasing new innovations across the energy, water and energy from waste sectors.

All shows are free to attend and located together so that visitors can find everything they need under one roof.

EfW EXPO energy from waste Live – the new power behind energy from waste Joining the Sustainability Live family for the first time, EfW EXPO - energy from waste Live is a new UK exhibition dedicated to energy from waste suppliers and will cover the whole spectrum of advanced thermal treatment and pre-treatment processes, including, gasification, autoclaving, anaerobic digestion, MBT and incineration with combined heat & power.

Under the EU directive requirement for 15% of UK energy to come from renewables by 2020, organisations will have to rethink their approach to resource-hungry processes and to improving sustainable business practice. EfW EXPO will showcase best practice and cutting edge solutions from this fast developing sector

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and will bring together industry professionals all looking for inspired innovation and fresh ideas.

As well as the chance to meet exhibiting companies, the show will feature an unrivalled and comprehensive seminar programme, which will review the latest energy from waste market developments, combining the best in thought leadership with practical solutions to ensure sustainability sits at the heart of business processes. Topics covered will include – Landfill Gas Generation, Bio-fuels, Feedstock, Anaerobic Digestion & Biogas and RDF & SRF (Refuse Derived / Solid Recovered Fuels) Highlights of the EfW seminar programme include: Policy Drivers/Legislation • Ben Sheppard, Partner, Walker Morris – “Key Legal and Contractual Issues with Advanced Thermal Technology Projects” Anaerobic Digestion & BioGas • Ken Shapland, Business Strategy Advisor, Aqua Enviro Ltd – “Gaining Maximum Efficiency from AD Assets is the Objective - Process Optimisation is the Answer” • Richard Gueterbock, Director, Clearfleau – “Opportunities for smaller scale on-site AD as an alternative to off-site disposal and aerobic treatment.”

• Dr Les Gornall, Lead Process Consultant, PROjEN Plc – “Barriers to the immediate diffusion of AD Technologies in the UK” Feedstock Session • Speaker to be confirmed from Scottish Water Horizons • RDF & SRF (Refuse Derived/Solid Recovered Fuels) • Mark Collinson, Project Manager, WRAP – “An update on WRAP’s energy from waste programme”

Advanced Thermal Treatment Technologies • Ralph Stein, CEO, Advanced Plasma Power – “Converting waste into valuable resources with the Gasplasma® Process” Plus speakers from Veolia, NQA, REA, SITA, EDF and SERCO Exhibitors at EfW EXPO energy from waste include: • Netzsch Pumps & Systems – showing the TORNADO rotary lobe pumps range which since launch have been primarily used in the environmental and wastewater, oil and gas, pulp and paper and food and pharma industries.

• CAD-Schroer – is supporting green energy providers by offering all companies in the renewable energy sector a 70% discount on its MPDS4 3D plant engineering software. This offer will be open to qualifying organisations visiting Sustainability Live.

The well-established Environment and Energy Awards celebrating excellence and innovation from businesses and technology providers in the market place will take place during Sustainability Live. The black tie dinner which was a sell-out last year, returns on the first night of the event, Tuesday 16th April, at the National Motorcycle Museum.

With so much on offer, Sustainability Live is a must-attend event for all professionals across the energy, water and energy from waste industries looking to network with like-minded individuals and source the latest product and services information to keep their organisation at the leading edge of innovation.

For up-to-date exhibitor news, seminar programmes and details on how to exhibit or free registration as a visitor, visit www.sustainabilitylive.com

February 2013 | Farming Monthly | 53

| Red Tractor

Industry encourages consumers to look out for the Red Tractor logo in response to “Horsegate” The recent ‘Horsegate’ incident has led to the farming industry calling for the need to re-examine sourcing and labelling policies to safeguard long-term consumer confidence in the UK meat industry. oth the NFU and EBLEX have urged people to look out for the Red Tractor logo which brings with it assurances about traceability of ingredients, and that it has been produced to Red Tractor standards.

In a recent press statement NFU President Peter Kendell said: “We need to move this debate on to find lasting solutions by putting an end to co-mingled products which mix UK meat with imported meat, as well as clearer labelling of all ingredients in products to ensure consumers can make a conscious buying decision. All retailers need to engage better with Red Tractor assurance, increasing the use of the logo on pack, and focusing on the longer term sustainability of their UK supply chains. These changes would benefit retailers, farmers and most importantly, the

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consumer.”

Nick Allen, EBLEX Sector Director, added “We would support calls for clear, simple labelling and welcome a debate on the issue. Origin is important to people. They want to know provenance and exactly what is in the product they are buying. While it is accepted that lower value meat products are unlikely to contain as high a proportion of beef than at the quality end of the market, the contents still need to be clearly labelled on the packet.

“We would encourage consumers to look for the assurance marks on packs, like the Red Tractor logo or the Quality Standard Mark (QSM) for beef or lamb, which give a level of reassurance on where a product is from and that it has been produced to clearly defined standards.”

A Consultation has taken place on Dairy Welfare Outcome Measure proposals Red Tractor Assurance (RTA) has worked with representatives of the dairy industry to develop proposals that would improve the RTA Dairy scheme, by proposing measurements of key welfare indicators (known as Welfare Outcomes) as part of dairy farm assurance requirements. he improvements require producers to assess their herds on a six month basis then review the results with their vet. During the routine Red Tractor assessment which is carried out every 18 months the assessor will also look at some of the measures on a sample of the herd with the producer.

Trials have demonstrated that regularly reviewing herds for welfare indicators (including mobility and body condition) and mastitis and culling incidence will help identify where improvements need to be made and will drive herd welfare and general productivity. The proposals would also deliver a more animal focused farm assurance assessment and will facilitate the collection of information on cow welfare that could be used to defend the industry should the need arise.

Mike Madders, a Staffordshire dairy farmer and RTA Dairy Scheme Chairman, said “Having been involved with the

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development and on-farm piloting of the proposal, I feel they are practical and are valuable management tools that inform and prioritise action on underlying issues within my herd. The proposals would help British dairy farmers demonstrate the on-going improvements in welfare standards and the value of British dairy products.”

Red Tractor is currently consulting on the proposals with producers via a short online survey

54 | Farming Monthly | February 2013

and feedback provided by producers will be used to further shape the proposals.

Peter Dawson, Policy Director of Dairy UK said, “A move to outcome based standards has been agreed in principle by all industry organisations. It’s a logical evolution that is necessary to ensure that the scheme remains credible with consumers and stakeholders. We need to move the scheme away from paper trails and procedures and focus on what

is being achieved by farmers. This consultation is an opportunity for farmers to let RTA know how this can be achieved both efficiently and effectively.”

For those interested in more detailed information on the proposed package and for a link to the online survey, please visit www.redtractorassurance.org.uk/d airywelfare. The consultation will now close on 22nd February 2013.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Machinery

Bauer irrigation reels: Setting new standards with compact design s.

Rainstar A series provides high irrigation efficiency for small surface

nnovative and easy to handle, optimal for small irrigation areas and equipped with state-of-the art technology: These are the main characteristics of the new Bauer Rainstar A series irrigation reels.

There are three models (A1, A2 and A3) for use in horticulture and also amenity areas such as golf courses and sportsgrounds. All are available with the Bauer’s highly durable PE pipe in different combinations of length (from 110m to 170m) and diameter (from 40mm to 63mm) so that in one run a strip up to 70m wide and 200m long can be irrigated.

“The technical design of the A series irrigators maintains the precision and quality standards of the bigger Rainstar machines, which have a deserved reputation for performance, reliability and

durability,” says Adrian Tindall, Bauer sales manager for UK and Ireland. “For example, all steel components are hot-dip galvanized, while modern plastic covers ensure the best possible safety while providing an appealing design.”

The Rainstar A1 in 40-135 and 43-125 configurations, and the A2 in 50-135, 55-120 and 58-115 specifications, have fixed reels so the machine as a whole must be orientated in the required direction. They feature a new compact drive turbine and gearbox assembly with exchangeable water nozzles enabling operators to achieve efficient drive with different flow rates and pressures.

A proven Bauer full-flow turbine is fitted to the larger Rainstar A3, which is available in 55-170, 63-

125 and 63-150 configurations. It can operate an irrigation boom as well as the standard rain guns that the A1 and A2 can supply.

“The A3’s drive system has veebelt transfer from the turbine to a speed change gearbox, and then laser-cut gear and chain drive to the hose reel,” notes Adrian Tindall. “With minimal power loss, this is a highly efficient drive mechanism.”

It also has a turntable-mounted reel, so the drum can be rotated to the correct orientation and turned through 180deg to irrigate in opposite directions from a single location. This feature also makes it easy for one person to move the machine from one run to the next.

“Bauer placed special emphasis on user-friendliness when developing the reels to make them as simple as possible to set up

and operate, even by someone inexperienced in managing a mobile irrigation system,” says Adrian Tindall. “The reels automatically lift the rain gun into the transport position at the end of each run, and there is automatic speed control and compensation for the increasing effective drum diameter as the hose is wound in.”

As optional equipment, a speed indicator and an over-pressure shut-off valve are available, together with an extensive choice of rain guns. A booster pump is available to allow irrigation with water taken from the local mains at low pressure.

Hustler in Henley-on-Thames

is easy with a single lever, and there is good manoeuvrability and increased stability – important when you’re trailing over hills.

So has it met with their expectations? “Very much so,” Ed replies, “lots of other farms want to borrow it.”

Asked if they would purchase Hustler again the answer was “yes, without a doubt, we are very happy.“ A good note to end on.

Hustler SL700X details are

available from Broadwood International on 01420 478111 or by visiting their website at www.broadwoodintl.co.uk

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Two bale feeder proves a hit with the neighbours! he villages and farms around Henley-on Thames in Berkshire nestle into the Chiltern hillsides and, in some areas, quite rough terrain.

White Pond Farm, which has been in the Stracey family for over 75 years and five generations, is one such farm spanning six hundred acres of arable and the rearing of Angus Beef.

The terrain is a challenge for any farmer needing to get feed to the cattle, especially in the harsher winter months when there are fair distances to travel over the hills in inhospitable weather.

Visiting the Livestock Dairy Show in 2012 Simon Stracey and his son Ed came across the Hustler SL700X two-bale feeder on the Broadwood International stand. Ed takes up the story.

“With the distances we have to travel from the farm to the feed site we required a machine capable of carrying more feed. Travelling over

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the hills we also thought a trailed bale feeder would be more applicable and it frees up our loader as well,” he says. What made the Hustler the ideal choice is that it allows two bales to be taken to the stock at the same time. One bale is lifted on the spikes and placed onto the cradle ready for feeding, while a second bale can be carried on the rear so two bales can be fed before returning to reload. “Whilst we’re primarily feeding round bales of haylage, having the option of carrying both round and square bales is also a real positive,” says Ed, “we are feeding at approximately 6kph, at 18.5 RPM running speed,” he adds.

What other factors drew them to buy a Hustler? He cites the chain drive as very robust, and the fact there is a substantial saving – as much as 20%, on feed costs using the towed bale feeder.

Maintenance is low and control

February 2013 | Farming Monthly | 55

| LAMMA

Morris Corfield & Co Limited Benthall Works, Shropshire TF12 5BB Tel: 01952 881000

Oliver Landpower Limited Home Park Works, Kings Langley, Hertfordshire WD4 8LW Tel: 01923 265211

Newton Street, Craven Arms, Shropshire SY7 9PJ Tel: 01588 673325

A14 Telford Road, Bicester Oxfordshire OX26 4LD Tel: 01869 329988

Westington Works, Docklow, Leominster, Herefordshire HR6 0SJ Tel: 01885 488884

Wandon End, Luton, Bedfordshire LU2 8NY Tel: 01582 727111

Bellard Court, Platts Lane, Duddon, Tarporley, Cheshire CW6 0EU 01829 749391 56Tel: | Farming Monthly | February 2013

Nigel Quinn (AMS) Limited 89 The Marshes Lane, Mere Brow, Preston Lancashire PR4 6JR Tel/Fax: 01704 822272 Mobile: 07973 519491 www.nigelquinnams.co.uk

Brian Robinson Machinery Ltd East Cowton, Northallerton, North Yorkshire DL7 0DX Tel: 01325 378552 www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Machinery

New Holland gearing up for Ireland’s FTMTA Farm Machinery Show New Holland’s tractor display is gearing up to be one of the highlights at Ireland’s FTMTA Farm Machinery Show 2013. he event is being held at The Punchestown Event Centre, Naas, Co Kildare, from February 7th- 9th, and is attracting interest from farmers’ around the country.

New Holland is set to draw plenty of attention to its display which will showcase the powerful T7.200’s cab upgrade among its many market-leading features, as well as the popular T5.95. Competitive retail finance deals will be on offer too.

The T7.200 stands out as a highly manoeuvrable tractor perfect for both farmers and contracting operations as it delivers excellent performance, acclaimed ergonomic controls and exceptional fuel efficiency.

It is ideally suited to a wide range of farming tasks including field cultivation, high-speed transport and front loader activities.

Its FPT Industrial SCR 6.7-litre Nef engine meets the stringent Tier 4A emissions standards using the AdBlue/DEF system,

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which only needs refilling on every other diesel refill.

The T5.95 meanwhile, is perfect for midsized livestock and mixed farmers with an eye on the future, and delivers up to 99hp. Its new and improved cab provides even better visibility, easier operation and a more comfortable ride.

New Holland’s General Sales Manager for Ireland,

James Doyle, said: “We’re looking forward to meeting customers from around Ireland and giving them the chance to see for themselves how good these machines are.

“We understand that flexibility, reliability and good value are priorities for farmers, so we’re sure they’ll be impressed by the models we’ll have on display, as well as the retail finance deals on offer.”

February 2013 | Farming Monthly | 57

| Machinery

Stewart Morley

Lyndon Tucker

Wharfedale Tractors Ltd

The Workshop, Bonds Farm Morley Lane, Pilling, Preston PR3 6BY Tel 01253 799124 Mob 07802 638385

Oldwalls Garage, Llanrhydian, Swansea SA1 1HA Tel 01792 391007

Unit 1, Riffa Business Park, Harrogate Road, Pool-in-Wharfedale, North Yorkshire LS21 2XB Tel 01132 841117

58 | Farming Monthly | February 2013

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| ATV

John Deere steer gear FARR too much snow to clear Gator features new power steering.

roviding even greater performance in a range of environments, John Deere’s popular XUV 855D Gator 4x4 utility vehicle is now available with power steering. This is designed to reduce steering effort considerably, compared to models without this feature.

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John Deere’s full Gator range, with the exception of the smallest CX model, is also available for the first time with PowerGard Protection. John Deere PowerGard is a straightforward solution to equipment servicing and repair work, designed to help Gator customers budget for the total cost of ownership. Thanks to the standard two year warranty and PowerGard Protection, it is possible to have up to four years of cover for the vehicle.

The new factory installed, electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) system will be standard on models with olive & black livery, and optional on green & yellow

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models. The system has an antikickback feature and speed sensing – the faster you travel, the more responsive the steering becomes, controlled by a torque sensor and an on-board computer.

The steering design also reduces tyre wear on hard surfaces, and is more turf friendly.

The 25hp XUV 855D Gator is the fastest and most powerful diesel utility vehicle in the John Deere line-up, with a top speed of 32mph (52kph). It features a true on-demand four-wheel drive traction system, activated by a dash-mounted electronic switch, and double A-arm front and rear suspension, which is adjustable at the rear. Ground clearance is 267mm (11in), total payload is 635kg and towing capacity is 680kg.

The Gator’s standard four post ROPS frame can be optionally upgraded to a deluxe full glass cab if required, and further options include tool carriers and cargo box dividers, a front mounted load rack, a bull bar and side extensions.

Price of the 2013 model John Deere XUV 855D 4x4 Gator utility vehicle with olive & black livery and power steering as standard starts at £12,288 (⇔14,805 in Ireland) for the base machine with Terrahawk tyres (excluding VAT), while the green & yellow livery model with optional power steering is £100 (⇔120) less.

For further information visit www.johndeere.com

When the weather is this severe you can count on HS700.

ith all the heavy snow in recent weeks, this brought most of the country to a standstill. However, shown above is a FARR HS700 UTV fitted with a snow plough and soft cab kit working to clear the snowfall from an industrial estate in Gloucester.

Mr Carlson, who recently purchased a FARR HS700 UTV from Lanes Agriculture comments ‘Well today was the first chance to try the FARR HS700 in extreme conditions, 10” snow.

We had to meet a driver down on the A48 with some parcels and

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it ran perfectly.

I was concerned as the snow was very deep, and the road is very steep the whole way.

Coming back up, I stopped at the bottom and dropped it into 4 wheel drive with differential lock, it did not miss a single beat, not one single wheel spin of any kind.

I have to tell you I am so impressed, it is fantastic. Thanks for a great piece of fun that is also an incredible vehicle’.

NEW DEALERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES NATIONWIDE!!!

Please call 07714 399 029 for further information.

February 2013 | Farming Monthly | 59

| ATV

Andrew Poulton (Editor) and John Crothers put the 900 XP to the test.

XP900: A new class of Polaris Ranger

polaris

60 | Farming Monthly | February 2013

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| ATV olaris has introduced a new class of Side by Side utility vehicle, the Ranger XP900, and everything about it is new.

Take the engine first.

The new ProStar 900 is a British designed Twin Cylinder 875cc four-stroke that pumps out 60hp with incredible class-leading torque across the power band.

There’s a new engine management system to keep the power smooth at all speeds and all that power lets you easily tow up to a ton or haul 453.6 kg in the cargo box. Access to the engine is simplicity itself, just lift the cargo box to check the oil and top up when needed.

This new cargo box, say Polaris, is the best yet with more tie-down points, optional box dividers and an easy gate release. There are also dozens of Polaris Lock and Ride accessories to suit all work and leisure purposes.

The all-new chassis gives you by far the smoothest ride in Ranger history, built around a ‘centre spine’ for greater rigidity, with a 12.7 cm

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longer wheelbase and 2.54 cm more suspension travel. The suspension itself is Dual Arm with IRS, the wheels are stamped steel and with all that power you can relax knowing you have four- wheel hydraulic disc brakes with dual bore front callipers.

What’s also different is it’s a quiet ride with the engine placement behind the seat and below the cargo box.

Now what about the ‘office’?

A redesigned cockpit fits more people more comfortably, featuring a 3-person split bench seat that also flips up for easy access to under seat storage. If you want a seat that slides forward and back to accommodate adults of all sizes there’s a Limited Edition model that offers just that. The new driver-centred console features a full range of instrumentation and quick readout gauges to keep you fully informed as you travel.

If you want to add more creature comforts there is the all-new Lock & Ride ‘PRO-FIT cab system which is also in a class of its own. Full cab installation takes less than five minutes, with windshield, roof, rear panels and doors pre-designed for the frame and all locking tightly to keep out the weather.

In all, there are thirty seven new features on the Ranger XP 900, together with a new class of accessories, all of which live up to the Polaris Ranger motto of ‘hardest working, smoothest riding,’ and adding up to a great deal for your money.

Well worth a visit to your nearest Polaris dealer to see for yourself. For more on the new Polaris XP900 contact Polaris Britain on 0800 915 6720 or visit www.polaris-britain.com The launch took place at Peckforton Castle in Cheshire, with it’s Land Rover Experience offroad course and was also the venue for the Polaris Dealer Conference.

52 dealers heard about Polaris’s business performance which included Off-road vehicle sales up 5.4%, overall revenue up 17.8% and most impressively, operating profit up by 43%.

Certainly impressive figures for the 10th anniversary as the UK susidiary of Polaris Inc.

Polaris at Peckforton Castle

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February 2013 | Farming Monthly | 61

| ATV

New Honda Foreman signs in All-new TRX500 strengthens Honda ATV line up. onda (UK) has further strengthened its market-leading product offering with the the fifth generation of its heavy-duty ‘Foreman’ ATV. Two new models have be added to the Foreman family - TRX500FM (manual shift) and TRX500FE (electric shift) – and have both undergone a total redesign from the ground up, using an entirely different design procedure that places extensive customer feedback at the heart of the changes.

Taking the durability and performance for which Honda ATVs are famed, the new Foreman models now come with a raft of significant new features designed to improve rider experience, increase usability and meet the needs of the demanding utility market sector.

• redesigned engine – a sophisticated watercooled, 475cc single-cylinder, OHV four-stroke engine with a higher compression ratio provides excellent ‘low down’ power - perfect for pulling away with heavier loads.

• new fuel injection system – featuring a 36mm throttle body that provides instant throttle response, consistent performance through the power range and trouble-free cold weather starting.

• new rear suspension – the combination of a new steel swingarm design and a single, highquality shock absorber with 174mm travel enables well-controlled power delivery, as well as increased comfort, precision and work capability.

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62 | Farming Monthly | February 2013

• adjustable pre-loading – both front and rear shocks are adjustable and pre-loadable, allowing the user to set personal preferences according to terrain and the task in hand.

The new Foreman has a different look and feel, too. All new body styling gives it a more purposeful and ‘open’ appearance and redesigned front/rear mudguards offer exceptional mud and splash protection.

Improved steering geometry, new seat design, upgraded rider position and a smoother gear change all combine to offer a first-class rider experience that is considerably less fatiguing during prolonged use.

The TRX500 FM model is priced at £6,715.00 ex VAT and the TRX500FE at £7,150.00 ex VAT and, as with all Honda ATVs, the new models come with a two-year warranty*.

Honda (UK) National Dealer Council representatives, Tom Taylor (Taylor ATV) and Tim Rochfort (Cleanacres Machinery Ltd.) offer the following opinions of the new Foreman: Tom Taylor: “In my opinion, the machine is very good indeed and it carries a lot more ‘punch’ than its predecessor. The most outstanding area of improvement is the increased power and torque. The steering is more positive and the ride is far improved because the suspension is better.”

Tim Rochfort:“Significant improvements have been made to body work, rider position and comfort. The seat is softer, the steering lighter and it is a much cleaner and drier ride.

The single rear shock absorber offers a new

level of comfort, control and stability that operators will really appreciate … without any of the “roll” that is more common to IRS. It’s much better for towing, too.

“In my view, it’s much easier to ride for a longer period of time - something customers have been asking for.”

Phil Webb, Head of Power Equipment at Honda (UK) comments: “We didn’t want to simply add a few new bits to the old Foreman, we wanted a completely reworked machine featuring significant changes that people really wanted. So, we undertook a comprehensive survey of customers and input their feedback into the design process and this exceptional new machine is as much a testimony to them as it is to our engineers and designers’ clever design.

The Foreman has definitely evolved but will continue its heritage as a class-leading, heavyduty ATV.” *subject to following the service schedule

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| ATV

About Honda’s ATV range Honda created the original All Terrain Vehicle back in the seventies, and today, Honda is the world’s leading ATV manufacturer. Offering the market’s most comprehensive range of All Terrain Vehicles including two-wheel and four-wheel drive options, the Honda Utility ATV Range offers a variety of transmission types, plus a huge choice of engine sizes ranging from 85.8cc to 675cc. www.honda.co.uk/atv

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

February 2013 | Farming Monthly | 63

| ATV

Show stoppers

Look after your animals

Suzuki announce attendance at NSA events this year.

To help farmers cope with the cold, wet weather and prepare for the upcoming lambing season, Suzuki has re-launched its 0% finance campaign.

uzuki GB are excited to announce their attendance at and sponsorship of a number of National Sheep Association (NSA) events this year, which started with the Central Region Winter Fair on 24th January 2013.

“Having taken part in our first NSA event, the Wales and Border Main Ram Sale, last September, we were keen to be involved in some more events this year.

Suzuki GB understand that livestock and, in particular hill farmers, are one of the biggest ATV user groups and form a considerable part of our customer base. We are looking forward to meeting some of them at the shows and showcasing our hard-

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working ATVs” commented Gareth Lumsdaine, ATV Sales and Marketing Manager, Suzuki GB. There will be a selection of Suzuki’s ATVs on display at the shows, allowing customers to get up close and personal with the latest models. Suzuki representatives will also be onhand to answer questions and promote the latest offers available, including 0% finance on KingQuads, Free Workwear Kits and the Courtesy ATV campaign.

In addition, Suzuki supplied a KingQuad 400 Manual for use in the NSA’s Young Shepherd competition, which saw a number of young farmers undertaking various challenges on and off of an ATV.

64 | Farming Monthly | February 2013

rom 1st January to 31st March 2013, business customers are able to receive 0% or low rate finance options when purchasing a brand new Suzuki ATV from a participating dealer.

This promotion is available on the Suzuki KingQuad range, which are perfect ATVs for the difficult conditions this time of year brings.

The KingQuads feature fuel injection for consistent starting in all conditions, selectable 2 or 4 wheel drive for challenging terrain and load-lightening power steering on selected models.

Gareth Lumsdaine, ATV Sales and Marketing Manager, Suzuki GB, stated, “Suzuki are pleased to be able to help customers financially in such an important, and often challenging, season.

This promotion allows business customers to upgrade to a new Suzuki ATV, with less pressure placed on their finances.”

In addition to the 0% finance

F

campaign, Suzuki is also offering customers a free branded workwear kit upon the purchase of a new Suzuki utility ATV. Customers can also take advantage of the courtesy ATV scheme, whereby a new Suzuki ATV is loaned to a customer when their utility ATV is taken to an authorised dealer for service or repair work.

For further information on Suzuki's Promotions and to find your local dealer visit www.suzukiatv.co.uk or call 0500 011 959

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| ATV

Can-Am fits the bill for livestock farmer James Irving based in Keswick near the Lake District has been a livestock farmer all his life. He looks after three farms equating to 12,000 acres of flat and hilly land and covers 10,000 miles a year on his three Can-Am ATVs. ames tells us how his farming was transformed once he discovered the Can-Am ATV: “Fifteen years ago I suffered from horrific back pain which I put

J

up with for six years before finally having an operation to remove some discs. The back pain was put down to the amount of hours I spent on my quad bike. That same year I was in my local dealership,

Paul Shuter Agricultural Services, which told me about the latest Can-Am 800. I made it very clear that I wasn’t in the market for a new bike as I’d only recently purchased one, but I ended up test riding the Can-Am and the transformation was so unbelievable I just had to buy one.

Can-Am ATVs are highly reliable and extremely comfortable, with exceptional handling, and the suspension and manoeuvrability are second to none. The chassis is first-class with its low centre of gravity enabling me to get anywhere I need to go easily - it’s particularly good on steep ground.

I never need to check the Rotax engine or change the oil, and I find them very economical. My CanAm 1000 cc model has that much torque that I don’t need to rev it very hard. I can put a trailer full of sheep on the back and it uses very

Day & Coles Agricultural Ltd

Southam Agricultural Services

Newton Close, Park Farm, Wellingborough, Northants NN8 6UW Telephone: 01933 673900

Fields Farm, Station Road, Southam, Warwickshire CV47 2DH Telephone: 01926 813426 www.southamagriservices.co.uk

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little power to get around; I can simply tick away on low revs. BRP has improved the Visco-Lok autolocking system and the power steering is a real advantage, especially when I’m covering around 10,000 miles across the farms each year. I currently own two Can-Am Outlander 1000 quads and a Can-Am Outlander 500.

I should have known about Can-Am from the start of my career. I always buy BRP’s latest model; every time I purchase a new one I say to myself ‘how can the company improve it further?’ but sure enough, another model is released which is even more superior and powerful than the one before.

I truly believe BRP’s Can-Am ATVs are the best quad bikes on the market for farming.”

February 2013 | Farming Monthly | 65

| Motors

Uk’s ‘most affordable SUV’ becomes one of country’s least depreciating new cars Ever thought that buying a car with a headline-grabbing price tag only made sense in the short term? Then think again. ew figures for the Dacia Duster SUV from leading UK residual value provider, CAP, prove that you can have your cake and eat it (though whether you’d want to eat any more after overdoing it these last few weeks is another thing).

Showing that as well as being one of the best value new cars, they forecast it’ll also be a good buy in the long run too. And it’s all down to being one of the least depreciating cars on sale today.

On the back of a bulging preorder bank (over 2,000 if you’re counting) for its Duster SUV and Sandero supermini, in true James May style, the “good news” just keeps on rolling in for consumer champions, Dacia.

The latest boost for Europe’s fastest-growing car brand comes in the wake of CAP’s announcement that a typical Duster will retain an impressive 34% of its value after three years/60,000 miles. Or, in simple terms, save customers up to £3,260 more than plenty of the competition.

Holding onto a sizeable chunk of its value isn’t something that the multi-award-winning Duster finds difficult, whatever end of its price list you look at.

Up first is the UK’s “most affordable SUV”. At a shade under £9,000, compared to every other compact crossover, it’s hardly going to leave you penniless at the outset. Even so, a fair few buyers treat

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themselves to a Dacia as their first new car, with modern reliability, frugal engines and a comprehensive three year/60,000 miles warranty included as standard. In which case, like every other new car buyer, they will want the peace of mind that it’s still worth something further down the line.

Well, they’ll be in luck. The entry-level Access is forecast to retain an impressive 34% of its value (£3,025) after three years/60,000 miles. For that kind of money, it doesn’t take a betting man to assume that after hearing way too many glowing ownership tales, even the Jones’ next door might go out and treat themselves to one. Chances are though, that by then the word on the street will be out, so tracking down a used one is going to prove pretty tricky.

In fact, due to its appeal, the entrylevel Dusters have already picked up a not-to-be-sneezed-at fivemonth waiting list. So, if wannabe UK owners aren’t quick off the mark, soon the queue will likely be halfway to India (where they’re built, in case you’re wondering).

The news is just as sweet for the Duster flagship, Lauréate. Canny buyers will hopefully be all smiles when they learn that depreciation here too, is forecast to be unbeatably low. Thanks to a tidy combination of appealing, chunky styling and reliability, against a P11D value of £12,940, CAP believe that the dCi 110 4x2 will lose £8,540 over the same period.

In simple terms, a lot less than everything else in its class, where the average loss is nudging £12,000. So, not only will a Duster prove a good buy

66 | Farming Monthly | February 2013

initially, even over the longer term, it’ll still come out trumps.

Even when you look at it in purely percentage terms, it’s still a bleak picture for its rivals. Forecast to hold onto a respectable 33% over the same period, it falls just 2% shy of pricier SUV rivals from the likes of Hyundai, Kia and Skoda. Clearly, compared to its bargain £12,995, you’d have shelled out a lot more for these challengers in the first place.

Speaking on the news, Dacia UK Marketing Director, Phil York, said, “We know that the Dacia Duster is a great package for anyone after a practical, reliable and affordable SUV. CAP’s view just reaffirms our belief that its got bucketloads of appeal for British buyers. After living with one, I doubt most owners will ever want to be parted from their trusty Duster. But, if they do have to sell it, or maybe even trade it in for a newer Dacia, they won’t be hugely out of pocket. I can’t help but think the residual value forecast for Sandero is going to blow the competition away too, in the not too distant future.”

Due to unprecedented demand for Duster production from all right-hand-drive markets, including the UK, which has already taken more than 1,700 orders for it, even before test drives began at Retailers, deliveries of the awardwinning model will begin in March.

Customers who placed an order during the pre-launch period are naturally being given priority in the queue.

As expected, orders for the £8,995 Access version have been impressive. In a blow to some critics who claimed the attentiongrabbing entry price purely a marketing stunt, it

makes up a fifth of all orders. In fact, almost a third more than Dacia UK’s initial sales forecast. A little like 4x4 orders, which, at a heady 40%, are almost double predictions too. Clearly, British buyers have done their homework.

Including when it comes to going off the beaten track. They’ve cottoned onto the fact if you put a proven four-wheel-drive system into a well-built, robust car designed to take on extremes of road and climate around the globe, it’s a winning, yet still “shockingly affordable”, combination. So, like the company’s current TV ad campaign and its strapline, “You do the maths”, why pay more?

Especially now, in austerity Britain.

Rounding off the rosy picture, orders for the range-topping Lauréate, which make up around two thirds of sales in other countries, are following exactly the same well trodden path over here.

Mind you, they’re priced from only £12,995. With air conditioning, alloy wheels, full electric windows and leather steering wheel, all for the same cash as plenty of midrange superminis, it’s not hard to see why they’re proving so popular.

The Duster SUV, plus the new Sandero supermini, are both available to test drive now in the Dacia network across the UK. For more information, or to find your nearest Dacia Retailer, simply go to www.dacia.co.uk for or call 0844 335 1111. All the latest Dacia news is available on twitter @daciauk and www.facebook.com/daciauk.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| ATV

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February 2013 | Farming Monthly | 67

| Motors

Champion Welsh farmer picks up Isuzu D-Max Dilwyn Owen, the winner of the fourth season of S4C’s hugely popular farming reality show, Fferm Ffactor, has picked up his brand-new Isuzu D-Max from Porthmadog-based dealer, R.J Williams Limited. ilwyn, a 34 year-old farmer from Anglesey won the grand prize of an Isuzu D-Max Yukon pick-up, finished in Cosmic Black, worth £22,399 (CVOTR). Dilwyn’s new model features a high-level of standard features, including a leather steering wheel with cruise control, keyless entry and air conditioning, 17-inch alloy wheels, side steps, chrome grille and rear bumper, as well as high-visibility projector headlamps and LED rear light clusters.

Following the series’ launch at this year’s Royal Welsh Agricultural Show, Fferm Ffactor pitched 10 contestants against one another in a series of challenges, putting their practical skills and farming expertise to the test. An Isuzu D-Max Yukon featured throughout the series, with competitors having to surrender their key to the pick-up if they were eliminated. Dilwyn was crowned the winner following a closely-fought finale held in Hendre Hall, near Bangor, Gwynedd, in December 2012.

D

dealer Contact your local

“I'm still pinching myself! Things like this don't happen to me,” commented winner and now proud owner of an Isuzu D-Max, Dilwyn Owen. "It was a relief in a way to get it over with because we had been competing for so long. I don't think anyone can appreciate how much we've pushed ourselves in each task. It's the first time the award has come to Anglesey but it won't be the last time I'm sure, because there are plenty of good farmers here," concluded Dilwyn.

William Brown, Isuzu UK General Manager, commented: “Isuzu is proud to continue to play its part in the prestigious Fferm Ffactor competition.

Farming is a critically important industry across Wales, and there is no better pick-up for rugged Welsh farmland terrain than the Isuzu D-Max. With its wide-ranging abilities – including class-leading fuel economy, 3,000 kg towing capacity and pioneering five-year / 125,000-mile warranty – it will be the perfect workhorse for Dilwyn and his family around the farm.”

The new Isuzu D-Max range includes single, extended (with rear-hinged side access panels) and double cab body configurations. Double cab models are available in four specifications: Isuzu D-Max, Eiger, Yukon and Utah. Prices start at £14,499 (CVOTR) for the entry-level Isuzu D-Max 4x2 single cab and rise to £21,999 (CVOTR) for the top-of-the-range Isuzu D-Max Utah 4x4 double cab automatic.

The Isuzu D-Max is fitted with a completely reengineered, 2.5-litre twin-turbo diesel engine and is available with a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission. The pick-up is also covered by a pioneering five-year / 125,000-mile warranty.

The Isuzu dealership, R.J Williams Limited, can be found on the High Street, Talsarnau, Gwyedd (LL47 6UB), contacted on 08446 623889, and is open from 08:00 to 17:30, Monday to Friday, 08:00 – 14:00 on Saturdays and 10:00 to 12:00 on a Sunday.

Ashburton Motor Works Ltd Devon - 01364 652302 devon-isuzu.co.uk

Duckworth Isuzu Boston - 01205 725700 www.duckworthisuzu.co.uk

Newcastle Isuzu Tyne & Wear - 01912 573309 www.newcastleisuzu.co.uk

Alexander & Duncan Herefordshire - 01568 613434 www.herefordshireisuzu.co.uk

Maple Garage Ltd East Yorkshire - 01964 670392 www.maplegarage.co.uk

Duckworth Isuzu Market Rasen - 01673 841410 www.duckworthisuzu.co.uk

R. Hunt Isuzu Hampshire - 01264 860532 www.rhunt.co.uk

Shukers Isuzu (Shrewsbury) Shropshire - 01743 873900 www.shukersisuzu.co.uk

Bob Gerard Limited Leicestershire - 01162 592224 www.bobgerard.co.uk

Hammonds of Halesworth Suffolk - 01986 834090 www.hammondgroup.co.uk

York Van Centre North Yorkshire - 01904 470170 www.yorkvancentre.co.uk

Culverwell Cars East Sussex - 01580 880567 www.culverwells.co.uk

Bulldog Twyford Berkshire - 0118 9321 331 bulldogtwyford.com

Holdcroft Isuzu Staffordshire - 0800 881 5546 holdcroftisuzu.com

Sheaf Motors Derbyshire - 01246 296969 isuzusales@sheafmotors.co.uk

68 | Farming Monthly | February 2013

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| Motors

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February 2013 | Farming Monthly | 69

| Motors

Nissan Qashqai adds to accolades

crown. s Car 2013 ‘Crossover of the Year’ British built Qashqai takes Busines

issan has won the inaugural 2013 Business Car award for Crossover of the Year.

Built at Nissan’s plant in Sunderland, the Qashqai was recognised in a sector it pioneered, earning acclaim from Business Car for “its distinctive looks” and “a drive that surpasses expectations.”

Further praise was lavished on Nissan for keeping the Qashqai fresh with a series of updates, notably the introduction of the 130PS 1.6-litre diesel option that now provides 62.8mpg and just 119g/km CO2 to offer a greener and more cost-effective solution for fleets.

In 2012 the Qashqai continued to be a strong seller in the fleet market with sales of 27,865, which accounted for 50 per cent of Nissan’s total car fleet sales.

Jon Pollock, Nissan’s Corporate Sales Director said: “We’re delighted to win the inaugural Business Car Crossover of the Year award. The Qashqai has been a strong seller to fleets and residuals have remained strong, a trend we expect to continue through 2013 as fleets recognise the growing size and attractiveness of this sector.”

Nissan recently launched the Qashqai 360 which promises to be the best-selling example yet of the sector-defining crossover. Starting at £19,945, the Qashqai 360 includes Nissan Connect with 360° Around View Monitor to aid parking and reversing.

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RAC cover, vehicle excise duty and 3 year/100,000 mile warranty included. Contract Hire Finance provided by Nissan Business Finance, a trading style of Arval UK Limited, Windmill Hill, Swindon SN5 6PE. Model shown is NV200 SE 1.5 dCi priced £13,970 exc. VAT and optional metallic paint at £350. Models subject to availability. Prices correct at the time of going to print. Nissan Motor (GB) Ltd, The Rivers Offi ce Park, Denham Way, Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire WD3 9YS. Price excludes OTR charges of £270 for road fund licence and first registration fee.

70 | Farming Monthly | February 2013

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Stringfellows Trade Outlet Ltd Brittain Drive, Nottingham Road, Ripley, Derbyshire DE5 3NB Tel: 01773 741487

Hepworth Motors 208 Huddersfield Road, Thongsbridge, Holmfirth, West Yorkshire HD9 3JL Tel: 01484 683172

Bob Gerard Ltd London Road, Leicester, Leicestershire LE8 9GF Tel: 0116 259 2224 www.bobgerard.co.uk

David Cook Motors Middleton Road, Chadderton, Oldham, Lancashire OL9 9LA Tel: 0161 624 1441 www.davidcookmotors.co.uk

John Pease Motor Group Manor Street, Braintree, Essex CM7 3BH Tel: 01376 545540 www.johnpeasemotorgroup.co.uk

Furrows of Telford Haybridge Road, Hadley, Telford, Shropshire TF1 2FF Tel: 01952 641433 www.furrows.co.uk

www.stringfellows-outlet.com

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February 2013 | Farming Monthly | 71

| Motors

72 | Farming Monthly | February 2013

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| Motors

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February 2013 | Farming Monthly | 73

| Motors

Good news for buyers of VW Touareg More luxury for less with new R-Line variant. olkswagen has created an even more sumptuous version of the upmarket Touareg SUV, with the introduction of the new Touareg R-Line. Based on the already well-equipped Touareg Altitude, the Touareg RLine adds luxurious extra equipment and unique R-Line styling cues, together worth over £4,000, for a premium of just £750.

The Touareg R-Line sits on 20inch ‘Tarragona’ alloy wheels with 275/45 R20 tyres, while the distinctive front and rear bumpers and side skirts give an even more purposeful look, added to by RLine badges on the front wings.

Standard bi-xenon headlights with dynamic curve lighting and LED daytime running lights give the RLine driver a commanding view of the road, and are complemented

by LED rear lights and numberplate lights.

Stepping into the cabin – over the bespoke R-Line sill plates – both passengers and drivers will appreciate the extra light which floods into the spacious cabin through the standard full-length panoramic electric sliding glass sunroof. Also standard is keyless

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entry and start – provided the key is in the vehicle, the Touareg RLine starts at the touch of a button – and an electrically powered tailgate that makes for effortless loading and unloading.

Like every Touareg, the R-Line also comes with leather upholstery, a satellite navigation

74 | Farming Monthly | February 2013

and audio system with eight-inch full-colour touchscreen, DAB, Bluetooth and MDI multi-device interface for iPods, 2Zone climate control, a Stop/Start system and battery regeneration, to help maximise fuel efficiency.

The Touareg R-Line is available with an eight-speed automatic

gearbox paired to a 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine with either 204 PS, for £44,025, or 245 PS, for £45,645 RRP OTR. The Touareg R-Line is on sale now. For more information visit www.volkswagen.co.uk.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Motors

First customer takes delivery of new Range Rover The first customer hand-over of two All-New Range Rovers took place today at Land Rover’s new state-of-the-art visitor centre in Solihull. t is the first Jaguar Land Rover facility of its kind and has been developed to offer customers the opportunity to undergo a high-quality bespoke multimedia experience as part of receiving their new Range Rover direct from the factory in a dedicated building that evokes the look and feel of a high-quality boutique hotel.

Leading entrepreneur Denys Shortt, who was recently awarded an OBE in the New Year's Honours List, and his wife Debbie were the first customers to receive their two new Range Rovers.

Denys Shortt, OBE who has owned Range Rovers for over 25 years said: “My wife and I have

I

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really enjoyed our day here, the unveil was spectacular and it’s a very special place to be handed the keys and have an introduction to our new cars.

“It’s made the whole buying experience really personal and we are looking forward to touring the factory and driving an All-New Range Rover on the off-road course.

“We like supporting British manufacturing and Land Rover is such a great British brand. This All-New Range Rover is truly superb and I believe the best car in the world - just got better!"

Mark Cameron, Jaguar Land Rover Global Brand Experience Director - Land Rover, explained:

“This facility has been designed to provide customers with the opportunity to come into direct contact with our brand. It offers an intimate setting while delivering bespoke and premium experiences using the latest technologies to offer the very highest levels of customer service.”

The new hi-tech building greets customers as they enter the Lode Lane entrance at Jaguar Land Rover’s advanced manufacturing plant in Solihull which produces the All-New Range Rover, Range Rover Sport, Discovery and Defender vehicles. As customers park in the dedicated parking area of the oval-shaped building they will be met by a personal concierge who will personally extend a warm welcome to the home of Land Rover. Visitors will enter the VIP lounge which features five metre-high ceilings creating a luxury boutique feel with high-quality fittings made from the finest materials.

A Meridian™ cinema-style theatre will provide an introduction to the brand with all the senses being treated to a superior audio and visual experience reflective of the same Meridian™ audio that features in their new Range Rover.

Guests will then move into the unveil room where their new Range Rover will be spectacularly

unveiled using cutting-edge 3D projection technology which silhouettes the build of the car over the customer’s vehicle.

Dramatic lighting and Meridian™ audio sound is added to the mix creating a spine-tingling and engaging unveil of the vehicle.

Customers will also have the option of a factory tour and be able to drive at the Land Rover Experience off-road driving centre.

More than 6,000 guests visit Solihull each year to take part in factory tours and off-road experiences, and Jaguar Land Rover expect to receive up to 2,000 additional guests in 2013 following the opening of the new Visitor Centre.

Customers can order an exclusive handover experience with their dealer when they place an order for their All-New Range Rover. The option costs in the region of £1200 and is subject to availability.

The All-New Range Rover was launched in October to critical acclaim and is the world’s first aluminium monocoque SUV. Up to 420kg lighter than the outgoing model, the Range Rover is exclusively built at Land Rover’s Solihull plant which has recently received significant redevelopment including the world’s largest aluminium body shop.

February 2013 | Farming Monthly | 75

FREELANDER 2

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February 2013 | Farming Monthly | 77

| Motors

SKYACTIV-D clean diesel technology wins friends With their unique combination of class-beating performance, increased fuel efficiency and reduced CO2 emissions, Mazda’s clean diesel engines are attracting the admiration of automotive experts and consumers worldwide. azda’s innovative new diesel technology is becoming a global success, reaching beyond traditional diesel strongholds with unparalleled sales elsewhere. While diesel engines power more than half of all new passenger cars sold in Europe, they are virtually non-existent in Japan, previously representing a mere 0.4 percent of the passenger car market. Now, in contrast, four out of five Mazda CX-5s (80 percent) sold in Japan have a 2.2litre SKYACTIV-D under the bonnet.

Currently, SKYACTIV engines, transmissions, chassis and body technologies are available in the

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UK on CX-5 compact SUV models, and the all-new Mazda6 Saloon and Tourer – with the addition of the i-ELOOP unique brake energy regeneration system that can boost fuel economy by up to 10 percent.

A perfect example of how Mazda continues to defy convention, the SKYACTIV-D engine has a 14:1 compression ratio – unusually low for a diesel and the lowest currently available – which enhances fuel combustion and efficiency, while reducing harmful emissions, especially of nitrogen oxides (NOx). The remarkably smooth and quiet SKYACTIV-D is the only diesel to comply with Euro 6 emission

Safe Santa Fe New generation Santa Fe named safest in class 2012. he Hyundai New Generation Santa Fe has been named as the safest car in its class assessed by Euro NCAP during 2012. Its scores across all test categories were best-in-class, making it one of the safest vehicles ever tested by the independent vehicle assessment organisation and the best in the ‘Large Off-Road 4x4’ segment – ahead of the Mercedes-Benz MClass and Range Rover.

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In a further demonstration of Hyundai’s commitment to safety, the New Generation Santa Fe is the brand’s first car to be equipped with an active bonnet. This activates if a pedestrian is hit, reducing impact forces and reducing the risk of serious injury.

The result of this is a ‘pedestrian safety’ score of 71%, making the New Generation Santa Fe stand

out among its rivals in this category with the nearest high score being 63%.

Allan Rushforth, Senior Vice President and COO of Hyundai Motor Europe, commented, “Having the New Generation Santa Fe recommended by Euro NCAP as the safest car in its class demonstrates Hyundai’s commitment to the safety of its customers and other road users.

The car’s inherent safety combined with low CO2, high levels of equipment and emotional design make the New Generation Santa Fe the complete package for European buyers.”

The New Generation Santa Fe is the latest of a long line of Hyundai models to achieve the maximum five-star score in Euro NCAP’s rigorous assessment program, following the top ratings achieved by the New i20, ix20, ix35, i40, Veloster and the New Generation i30.

Every New Generation Santa Fe on sale in Europe comes with Hyundai’s Five Year Triple Care.

This award-winning customer assurance package includes a five-year warranty with no mileage limit, five years of roadside assistance and five years of vehicle health checks.

78 | Farming Monthly | February 2013

standards without NOx aftertreatment – long before the new standard takes effect in September 2014.

The engine’s variable twin turbocharger boosts torque and responsiveness throughout the rev range right up to the unusually high redline of well over 5,000rpm. Yet it still delivers bestin-class fuel economy and CO2 emissions – from 119g/km and up to 61.4mpg in the CX-5 and from 108g/km and up to 67.3mpg on the all-new Mazda6 sedan – figures which make SKYACTIV-D a viable alternative to hybrids, and they are a lot more fun to drive.

Mazda’s clean diesel technology is now destined for North America, another traditionally weak diesel market (at around 3 percent). Scheduled for arrival later in 2013, the all-new Mazda6 will be the first passenger car powered by a modern clean diesel to be offered by any Asian manufacturer in the USA. “Mazda’s SKYACTIV-D engines have what it takes to change people’s attitudes and overturn the negative preconceptions towards diesels that prevail in the U.S. and Canada,” explains Mazda North America President and CEO Jim O’Sullivan. “We think they’re going to make a huge splash, especially when you consider how our clean diesel technology addresses growing consumer concerns about rising fuel costs and the environment.”

One clear advantage of the SKYACTIV-D is the fact that it not only meets strict emissions requirements in Europe, but also in Japan and North America. And unlike its competitor brands, which need to offer special green versions of their diesel-powered models, Mazda’s diesels do not require expensive NOx aftertreatment in those markets either. Unsurprisingly, a SKYACTIV-D 2.2 has been shortlisted for the 2013 International Engine of the Year awards at Engine Expo in Stuttgart, Germany during June.

“Because of its unique characteristics as a clean diesel, the SKYACTIV-D gives Mazda a major competitive advantage

throughout the world,” says Ichiro Hirose, Mazda’s European head of R&D. “This engine has been highly praised across Europe, where it is already considered one of the best diesels available. And we’re confident that SKYACTIV-D will help Mazda play a leading role in the proliferation of dieselpowered passenger cars in other regions, too.”

In Japan, the Mazda CX-5 was voted ‘2012-13 Car of the Year’ as jurors praised its SKYACTIV-D 2.2 ‘revolutionary’ clean diesel technology and was also admitted to Japan’s Automotive Hall of Fame, finishing first in the ‘2012-13 Car Technology of the Year’ category.

In Europe, the CX-5 with SKYACTIV-D received the 2013 ‘SUV trophy’ presented by French weekly l’Argus de l’Automobile and the Motor Mundial’s ‘SUV of the Year’ crown in Spain. The Mazda CX-5 has also won ‘Car of the Year’ honours in Switzerland, Austria and Germany.

In Britain, the Mazda CX-5 has attracted a host of accolades, including being named as Britain’s ‘Best Buy’ SUV in the under £25,000 category by the experts at Britain’s biggest and best selling car buyer’s guide What Car? Explaining its selection of the £22,995, 2.2-litre, 150ps diesel CX5 as a class winner, the latest ‘Awards 2013’ edition ofthe influential monthly publication states: “This really is one of the finest diesels you can buy. It has walloping low-down torque, yet is supremely flexible and happy to rev.”

This latest accolade for the Mazda CX-5 follows three earlier awards for the CX-5 compact SUV equipped with SKYACTIV technology – the 2012 WhatCar? Green SUV Award, the 2012 SCOTY (Scottish Car of the Year) Safety Award, Total 4x4 magazine’s 2013 4x4 of the Year Green Award and most recently, together with all-new Mazda6, the 2013 WhatCar? Ultra-low-carbon Award.

For full details of the latest promotions and finance offers visit www.mazda.co.uk/showroom/offers

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