May 2015 Farming Monthly National

Farming

MONTHLY National

May 2015

Inside this issue...

Fuels

| Agricultural waste could be used as biofuel

On Topic | SkyTech 2015 post show report

Renewables | Sustainability Live to rebrand

Cereals 2015 Show preview | News

Falling price of new season lamb gives cause for concern |

Grassland Show preview and more |

Also Inside: Potatoes | Livestock | Machinery | Tyres | Security | News | ATV | Motors

Contents

40

14

May 2015

20 60

FMN

Features

FMN

Regulars

12 20 36 48 49 50 52 54

Livestock

06 10 42 57 56

News

Including Livestock event preview

Cereals Including Cereals event preview

Grassland Including Grassland event preview

Animal Health Managing parasite challenge in younstock

Arable Slug control still achievable

Catch up on the news that matters

On Topic SkyTech 2015 post event

Renewables Solar pushes forward, on-shore wind investment & more

ATV Polaris 0% offer, Can-Am 6x6 price reduction

Motors Volvo XC90 V8 Twin Engine, 6,000,000th Land Rover

Fuels Agricultural waste could be used as biofuel

Tyres John Deere & Michelin European Drivers Challenge

NEXT MONTH More show news..

Security Tackling rural crime We welcome feedback and encourage readers to air their views. Have an opinion on a story or something you want to get off your chest? 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 2015.

Andrew Poulton EDITOR

Connect with us: Published in the UK by Farming Monthly Ltd, 15-17 Dugdale Street, Nuneaton, Warwickshire CV11 5QJ Tel: +44 (0) 2476 353537 Editor Andrew Poulton Editorial Assistant editorial@farmingmonthly.com Advertising Director Shona Beedham s.beedham@farmingmonthly.com Advertising Sales Jessica Hopper j.hopper@farmingmonthly.com Advertising Sales Laura Green l.green@farmingmonthly.com Accounts Manager Cheryl Arnold c.arnold@farmingmonthly.com Production studio@farmingmonthly.com Subscriptions subscriptions@farmingmonthly.com For editorial and general enquiries or to advertise please call Tel: +44 (0) 2476 353537 or email sales@farmingmonthly.com

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Front cover: FMN visit to Dent Farm during lambing (see page 09)

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| News

Falling price for new season lamb gives cause for concern NFU President Meurig Raymond has underlined his growing concern for the British lamb market as new season lamb prices have come under pressure in recent weeks. ate April typically sees the numbers of new season lambs increase, with prices adjusting through the season as increased supplies become available,” he said. “However, the last two weeks have seen prices fall by nearly 20 per cent and the rapid decline is symptomatic of the volatility faced by lamb producers. This is extremely worrying, as early lamb requires a premium to cover its increased cost of production.

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“In recent years we have been highly critical of retailers who have promoted imported lamb when British lamb has been at its best and in plentiful supply” “Early season lamb is a premium product that delivers a top quality eating experience for customers. If the market does not reflect the higher costs associated with supplying early lamb, sheep farmers will question the long term viability of producing this high-quality and

06 | Farming Monthly | May 2015

On yer bike for charity!

Grimme UK has joined forces with other Grimme companies from around Europe for a charity bike ride.

iconic British product for the Easter market.

Consumers tell us that they want to see British lamb on supermarket shelves today and in the future. I share the anxiety of many sheep farmers about any external pressures that may further depress the price of their lambs. If farmers don’t have confidence in production, then long term supply of home-grown lamb to consumers is going to be at risk.

“In recent years we have been highly critical of retailers who have promoted imported lamb when British lamb has been at its best and in plentiful supply. Therefore, all eyes will be on retailers to see if they will give our great British lamb pride of place on their shelves. In the coming days I will be writing to major players within the supply chain and I expect them to live up to the commitments to British lamb made in response to criticism in past years.

Farmers and consumers both want to see home-grown lamb on the shelves this year, and for years to come. We call on retailers to help make this happen.”

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tarting on May 7th, 2015 from its York depot, the ride will cover nearly 300 miles, finishing at the global headquarters in Damme, Germany two and a half

days later.

The Team Grimme charity bike ride is in aid of ‘Children with Cancer UK’ and hopes to raise £15,000. It is a fully international affair with a 15 member strong team of novice to experienced riders and support crew from the UK, Germany and Scandinavia.

The team includes: Peter Mason UK, Glyn Argent UK, Dan Taylor UK, Russell Button UK, Chris Shipley UK, Barry Baker UK, Peter Stocks UK, Neil Jackson UK, Heine Hylleberg SK, Per Rasmussen SK, Henrik Pedersen SK, Soren Lund Madsen SK, Morton Mikkelsen SK, Dirk-Jan Staple and Marcel Stubbe, Damme. Support Team Mark Addinall and Stuart Smith UK. Live updates can be viewed on Grimme Facebook or @grimmeuk on Twitter and donations can be made on the Just Giving website, www.justgiving.com/teamgrimme

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| News

Agricised® brings welcome savings in fencing costs Setting new standards in long life fencing M&M Timber’s highly acclaimed Agricised fencing posts have now become first choice for economy conscious land owners and the farming community throughout the UK. osting much the same as the industry standard treated posts to purchase and install, the Agricised products have at least three times the average lifespan.

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Here is a new generation fencing breakthrough that carries a genuine 15 year warranty at little more than the cost of standard fencing posts.

M&M Timber has doubled production of its Agricised product over the past 12 months as more and more customers recognise the real savings to be made in replacement materials and labour costs over a 15 year period.

Typically, this could mean a saving of up to £4,500 on a 500 metres stock fencing installation. And that’s no idle boast; Agricised fencing posts are guaranteed for a full 15 years, with a written warranty and an online customer

registration scheme for absolute peace of mind.

A specialist in timber manufacturing and treatments for over 30 years, and a respected authority on agricultural fencing, M&M Timber was amongst the first to introduce the process of introducing uniform machined incisions of the post’s most vulnerable ground contact area, for greater penetration of pressurised preservative to meet BS8417 ground contact zone requirements. Following further investment in manufacturing plant, the company’s Agricised timbers are now prepared using EXCALIBUR incising technology, allowing even deeper and more consistent penetration of wood preservative into this important ‘zone of confidence’.

World renowned TANALITH E wood preservative in now used exclusively in all M&M Timber’s treatment processes, a tried and tested copper based wood preservative with high performance credentials, particularly for ground contact timbers.

Here, at last then, is a new generation fencing breakthrough that carries a genuine 15 year warranty at little more than the cost of standard fencing posts. A top performance option no less, without the inherent high cost penalties that have hitherto forced land owners to settle for lower grade or inferior fencing installations.

Other recent developments

include the launch of the 'Prestige' range of scalloped post and half round rail fencing. A superb quality fencing option that looks good in any application and has become the top choice for high end perimeter fencing and commercial applications throughout the UK. For more information please contact M&M Timber on 01299 832 611 or see the website at www.mmtimber.co.uk.

And last month’s competitions winner is..

Mrs H.M. Simpson Burnside, Wick

Congratulations! £350 worth of GOODYEAR clothing is yours!!

We’ll be in touch soon... www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

May 2015 | Farming Monthly | 07

| News

Dairy Transport Cogent announces Assurance Scheme now appointment of UK built into Red Tractor General Manager Assurance Scheme

James Hallett has been appointed by Cogent Breeding Ltd as General Manager for the UK business.

All dairy products carrying the Red Tractor logo will now be made from milk hauled by a Dairy Transport Assurance Scheme (DTAS) certified haulier, DTAS and Red Tractor representatives said last week.

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he announcement was made at the fifth annual DTAS Conference hosted by Dairy UK on 22nd April

in Warwick.

DTAS Chairman Tim Hampton said: “When we set up the scheme five years ago, our target was to be recognised by Red Tractor. The DTAS standards for milk collection are the benchmark for the industry.

They are written and audited by experts from the industry and draw on the expertise and commitment of industry professionals. We are proud of what we have achieved for the dairy industry and we are delighted that Red Tractor have

confidence in our scheme.”

Red Tractor Head of Assurance Anita Roberts said: “The DTAS standards complement our Red Tractor standards perfectly. DTAS standards cover traceability, food safety and environmental protection from farm to milk processor and therefore are a natural addition to our logo requirements. This development will give consumers even more reasons to look out for and trust the Red Tractor when buying dairy products.”

Red Tractor and DTAS are working together to look at the use of the Red Tractor logo on vehicles in order to communicate this great news more widely.

08 | Farming Monthly | May 2015

his is a new position for Cogent and underpins their commitment to delivering high quality solutions to their growing base of UK customers.

James, who will join Cogent at the end of April, will be responsible for the strategic direction and operation of the UK business, ensuring that customers receive the best performing product and enhanced services.

James farms in Shropshire where he is steadily building a herd of pedigree Salers cattle.

His career has been in commercial management in a number agricultural and horticultural businesses. These roles have included working for Geest plc, Homegrown, Fresca, British Growers Association and

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most recently Agri Lloyd.

Mr Hallett said: “I am immensely excited to be joining the fantastic team at Cogent.

There are significant opportunities for accelerating improvements to cattle genetic quality and hence animal performance in this country. I am looking forward to helping our customers derive all possible benefits for their businesses through enhanced breeding programmes.”

Andrew Turner, Cogent CEO, said: “This appointment further strengthens Cogent’s Senior Management structure and reinforces our commitment to continue to grow market share in the UK. James’ wide experience will be a great compliment to the existing knowledge and professionalism of the Cogent team.”

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| News

FMN visit Dents Farm for Volatility takes its toll on lambing insight farm profitability With lambing season well under way, the team at Farming Monthly had the pleasure of visiting Mrs Boffey at her farm in Burton Hastings, Warwickshire to enlighten ourselves about the reality of lambing season.

A significant drop in commodity prices across the board is a major factor in causing a fall in the overall profitability of the farming sector in 2014 otal Income from Farming (TIFF) figures released

by Defra show that, in real terms, the headline figures for 2014 fell by 4.4 per cent to £5.4billion. However, farming’s contribution to the UK economy, in terms of its Gross Value Added (GVA), has risen once again to reach almost £10billion, showing the importance of farming to the economy and the resilience of the sector during times of uncertainty and volatility.

NFU President Meurig Raymond said: “These figures underline the impact of falling commodity prices. We have seen a roller-coaster ride in terms price falls across the various farming sectors over the past year and this trend has continued into 2015. For example dairy and pig prices are currently almost 20 per cent below compared with the same period last year and lamb values are also under pressure.

“The stronger pound has also exerted downward pressure on the sector’s profitability in 2014 and continues to be a critical factor in determining commodity prices.

The NFU has also stressed, with just a week to go before the General Election, it is vital that

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Mrs Boffey in the lamb pen

r and Mrs Boffey have been together for 56 years and have been farming at Dents Farms since 1960. Today, together with their son they farm just over 200 acres of land, around 1000 sheep and numerous cows, whilst their other son, Richard, uses the farm as the base for his Agricultural Contracting Business – R.A.B. Contracting.

Since they decided to stop milking in September 2013, the sheep have been the main focus

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of the farm. As we visited in the height of lambing season, there was very little indoor space which was not filled with lambing pens.

At Dents Farm they lamb in both January and April where they aim for a 200% return – but in reality the results do not quite meet those expectations as we came to learn.

On top of lambing and the daily tasks on the farm, twice a week Mrs Boffey delivers eggs to the local area.

Farming Monthly would like to thank Mrs Boffey for making us welcome and providing an enjoyable and informative visit.

whoever ends up at Number 10, the next Government must ensure that it has the right policies in place to help the industry invest and grow for the long term.

“These figures underline the impact of falling commodity prices. We have seen a roller coaster ride in terms price falls across the various farming sectors over the past year and this trend has continued into 2015” Mr Raymond said: “UK farming’s contribution to the wider economy has increased by 34 per cent. With the right conditions British farmers can continue this impressive long-term performance.

“We want the next Government to create the right environment to encourage investment, growth and innovation, therefore securing the future of the country’s food and farming industry. The NFU’s farming manifesto highlights the key policy recommendations that the industry, along with Government can address to deliver this continued growth.”

May 2015 | Farming Monthly | 09

| On Topic

On Topic he Technology & Regulation Conference housed a number of presentations and panel discussion covering the latest debates and innovations from the industry. The opening session brought together Gerry Corbett (CAA), Andre Clot (EuroUSC), Tony Henley (Aerospace Consultant) and Joseph Dalby (4-5 Gray’s Inn) to navigate the complicated terrain of regulation. Safety and education undoubtedly took centre stage here, with the need to educate new UAV users and so-called “rogue operators” a key focus for the industry over the coming months. The CAA spoke of streamlining the UAV permission process but are also eager for other government departments such as the Department of Transport to get involved in the regulation process. It was also suggested that regulation may move away from the existing risk-based weight categories toward altitude, airspeed and power. Consistently enforcing UAV regulation was also identified as the next challenge for the industry, alongside issues of prosecuting misuse instances. Gerry Corbett commented that ‘it is the private or casual use of drones that’s going to be a bigger problem’.

There was also large debate over whether UAVs should be fitted with registration chips in order to identify users.

Key questions for the coming year will include, ‘Should industry regulation move more in-line with motor regulation?’ ‘Does the industry need compulsory insurance for pilots?’

‘Will regulation become Europe-wide or even worldwide?’

Safe and best practice for UAV usage was a

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SkyTech key theme for the event. Droneflight Ltd discussed the current drone skills gap, emphasising that individuals ‘don’t underestimate the time required to gain solid UAV flying skills’. Heliguy.com stressed the need for users to stop relying on technology, noting in particular that operators need to work out the battery life of their UAV and operate below this to ensure safe operations. Heliguy also called for operators to work in twos in case of emergency situations.

The Agriculture & Environment Conference and Workshop sessions provided an in-depth look into the use of UAVs at a case study level.

Data was the key message to emerge from these sessions. Redbird presented proven UAV solutions for digital quarry and network supervision, whilst Topcon showcased their fixed wing (Sirius pro) UAV for precise mapping and volume analysis. Professor Simon Blackmore of Harper Adams University spoke of equipping autonomous UAVs with lasers to kill weeds on agricultural land, whilst URSULA Agriculture illustrated the best methods for getting the most out of your data.

The latest in UAV technology also took centre stage at SkyTech. The University of Southampton spoke of the advantages of Tethered UAS, placing emphasis upon their allweather capabilities, complete low-cost solution and 240 VAC Power Generation. The AMRC Design & Prototyping Group shed light upon emerging manufacturing methods for UAVs. The AMRC is pioneering the use of additive manufacturing or 3D printing of UAVs which enable not only a quick manufacturing process but the ability to quickly change parts.

Innovative manufacturing methods were also showcased by Graphite Additive Manufacturing, who are using a 3D printing method known as Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) to develop UAVs that are up to 25% lighter.

Safe and best practice for UAV usage was a key theme for the event SkyTech also provided a platform for a number of industry product launches: UAVONIC Launch Xiro Explorer & Zero Tech HighOne Pro Drones Xiro Explorer: Xiro Xplorer is available in three versions: Xplorer, Xplorer Vision and Xplorer Pro. The most basic version is a Ready To Fly drone, which comes without a camera, with an option to upgrade. Vision is equipped with 3 axis gyro stabilised gimbal with integrated Full HD camera and Pro version comes with 3 axis gyro stabilised gimbal for GoPro Hero 3 and 4 with live video preview. All three versions are powered with a 5200mAh smart Li-Po battery that allows up to 25 minutes of flying time.

Zero Tech HighOne Pro: Zero Tech HighOne Pro quadcopter is a ready to fly professional solution with brand new Smart assemble system. Its foldable frame is made of carbon fiber and aircraft grade aluminium without any plastic parts used in main frame. For added safety it is equipped with the Gemini dual redundancy autopilot and carries Z1400 brushless gimbal for Panasonic GH3/GH4 camera. Newly added retractable landing gear

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| On Topic

On Topic

2015 allows 360 degrees rotation of camera with no obstructions in sight. It is safe, smart, agile, simple to operate and even more portable. It is particularly suited for flying close to obstructions and narrow areas such as stadiums or indoors. It can be widely used in the television industry, for commercial purposes and all kind of aerial work.

Resource Group launches ‘RPAS Portal’ to Enhance and Streamline RPAS Operations Resource Group, a UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) National Qualified Entity (NQE) training organisation, has launched RPAS Portal for Remote Pilot Aircraft Systems (RPAS). RPAS Portal is an integrated, web based, software solution created to dramatically streamline the day to day activities of RPAS pilots and operators. Designed to provide a central location, actively promoting airworthiness, safety and the maintenance of flight logs - the RPAS Portal functions on all mainstream technology platforms, giving users online access to the system anytime, anywhere.

It is set to be of enormous benefit to the RPAS industry by providing a convenient, efficient and secure tool through which pilots and operators can share details of their flights

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

BASF's Jonathan Ball

with other airspace users, the general public and the regulatory authorities. The RPAS Portal greatly reduces the amount of time spent planning, managing, recording and reporting information thereby driving efficiency whilst promoting a safety first, best practice approach. The RPAS Portal will be used by all RPAS stakeholders, including RPAS service clients searching for RPAS service providers meeting their project criteria.

The RPAS Portal is built around an online database that provides process forms, reporting formats and regulatory guidance to improve the consistency of operators’ approach to providing RPAS services including

requirements related to data protection. Data on the RPAS Portal is securely stored and can be used by an operator (individual or corporate) to support Currency and Competency (C2) and Safety case submissions. The RPAS Portal provides a level playing field for all RPAS operators by recognising and supporting qualifications from all National Qualified Entity (NQE) training providers.

May 2015 | Farming Monthly | 11

| Livestock

Livestock Event 2015 The NEC, Birmingham It’s not too early to put Wednesday 8 and Thursday 9 July in your diary......... ivestock farmers will have the opportunity for fresh thinking to keep their businesses on track and remain competitive by taking a day out to the Livestock Event, the UK’s largest trade show for the sector staged at the NEC, Birmingham on 8 and 9 July.

Building on previous successes,

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“Two brand new features for 2015: the UK’s first live calf rearing demonstration exploring feeding and housing systems, and the live Lely robotic feeding demonstration for beef cattle” the event is scheduled to feature more than 400 trade exhibitors whilst visitor numbers are expected to exceed last year’s 17,000 record.

“Livestock Event 2015 will provide all farmers with the opportunity to share information and ideas and pick up no

nonsense practical advice. They will also have a chance to find out about over 100 new products and concepts that will save money and help to stay a head of the game,” says event director, Matt Knight.

“Forward buying will be on the cards for an increasing number of dairy producers attempting to manage volatile milk prices by taking control of their feed costs enabling them to budget profit margins far more accurately.

“Two brand new features for 2015: the UK’s first live calf rearing demonstration exploring feeding and housing systems, and the live Lely robotic feeding demonstration for beef cattle.

“Furthermore, the award winning live Lely robotic milking and feeding demonstration with 40 cows is returning, having proved to be the most popular feature amongst visitors in 2014 seeking to save labour and improve their herds’ efficiency - 53% came to see the feature.”

Those features will complement the following line up: • National Dairy Show, 300 stalls for national annual shows for Ayrshire, Brown Swiss and British Friesian cattle societies, together

12 | Farming Monthly | May 2015

with entries for Holstein, Jersey, Guernsey and Dairy Shorthorn classes.

• Commercial stalls area, new to the event for pedigree breeders with dairy cattle for sale.

• Beef, 210 stalls available for the returning Aberdeen Angus, British Blue and Charolais national shows for performance recorded cattle, plus the inaugural South Devon Herd Book’s performance championship.

• National Lleyn Sheep Competition returns with penning for over 100 animals.

• Forage Field, the practical demonstration designed to enable farmers to make more from grass.

• Foot trimming and Healthy Feet, designed to help dairy farmers reduce the number of lame cows within the herd.

• Free Seminars: Feed Science Forums and Farm Health Planning Seminars – interactive sessions designed to inspire and challenge.

Dairy Pro points available.

• Test drive the latest Isuzu 4x4s on The NEC off road track.

See www.livestockevent.co.uk

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Livestock

Electrolux aids UK dairy farmers with new laundry Solution Leading commercial laundry manufacturer Electrolux Professional has announced a new way for the country’s dairy farmers to improve profitability, with the launch of an innovative on premises laundry (OPL) solution to maintain hygiene standards and promote sustainability during the milking process. rior to each milking session, farmers must ensure that each cow’s teats are hygienically clean in order to reduce high bacterial counts and instances of Mastitis, a disease causing inflammation of the mammary gland and udder tissue. Currently, several hundred disposable paper towels can be used during just one milking session and, with sessions often occurring several times a day, this can become an extremely costly and wasteful process.

By investing in an OPL, farmers can utilise the thermal disinfection programmes available with the Electrolux Professional Line 5000 range of laundry equipment, which have been specifically designed for use on dairy farms to reduce

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bacterial infections which threaten the health of livestock and the production and quality of milk. Hot washes in excess of 90°C ensures that the micro-organisms that cause Mastitis are inactivated, while cloths can be re-used as they are left with the residual moisture crucial to efficient and hygienic teat cleaning.

As the first and only HACCP International certified laundry manufacturer in the world, Electrolux Professional’s Line 5000 is guaranteed to comply with key food safety criteria.

The solution comes amid a tough time for the UK dairy industry, with farmers under increasing pressure to continuously milk their herds in order to supply the country’s leading supermarket chains, despite the decreasing prices they

receive for their product.

Kurt Fryer, Segment Manager for Facilities Management – Laundry at Electrolux Professional UK & Ireland, commented: “With automated exit milking systems often part of the furniture within an established dairy business, farmers need to make their production line as efficient as possible.

“Farmers within the UK are beginning to look towards the USA’s more sustainable milking solutions involving investment in an on premises laundry, enabling re-usable, washable cloths to be used to clean their herd’s teats prior to milking. This enables the

dairy to make significant cost savings through the use of reusable cloths compared to the commonly used disposable paper towels, without compromising on the condition or cleanliness of its cows’ udders.

“While it may be a new solution that farmers aren’t used to, by incorporating sustainable practices and increasing profitability, investing in an OPL could prove a worthwhile investment for any dairy farm.”

For more information on Electrolux Professional’s leading range of laundry solutions, visit www.electrolux.co.uk/professional.

May 2015 | Farming Monthly | 13

| Livestock

Finrone Systems launches new extended size portable pig housing Finrone Systems Ltd recently announced the latest update to their already extensive range of portable pig housing, now capable of holding up to 770 pigs.

ith over 25 years of experience in the pig sector, Finrone Systems have become known as one of the leading suppliers in the United Kingdom and their Portapig range of buildings have been installed at pig farms throughout Europe.

Sharon Forbes, Director of Finrone Systems Limited said, “Portapig has been our leading product due to the ease and speed with which they can be installed on a farm. Our new extended size building offers an additional 25% of space per building and our new duo models offer capacity for up to 770 nursery pigs.”

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The extended buildings offer pig famers a cost effective solution to maximise on farm profits The Portapig buildings from Finrone System offer pig farmers a quick and hassle free approach over traditional pig housing with the portable nature of the building allowing it to be moved without major disruption or cost. The lifespan of the product also rivals that of fixed building, using quality finishes and materials which are used throughout the agriculture industry.

Sharon continued, “Our new Duo model houses leave over 80% complete with on-site work being

14 | Farming Monthly | May 2015

finished in 1-2 weeks depending on the complexity and finish of the project. Once our experienced team have finished quality checking the building, pigs can be moved in straight away.”

The extended buildings offer pig famers a cost effective solution to maximise on farm profits. The new buildings, available in both single and duo models offer up to 22 and 44 farrowing places respectively.

Nursing and Finishing options are also available housing up to 770 pigs.

Mr Stuart Bosworth, who has previously had Portapig houses from Finrone Systems Limited installed at his farm in Essex said, “Our farm has been using Portapig farrowing, nursery and grower buildings for almost 15 years. The main benefits I have found are excellent pig performance; our farm now achieves over 29 pigs per sow weaned and 28.55 pigs sold per sow per year. I am very confident that in the near future we will achieve over 30 pigs weaned per sow per year in our Portapig Farrowing Buildings. Our staff enjoy working in the Portapig buildings with their easy to clean design creating a very hygienic environment.”

To find out more about the Portapig range by Finrone Systems Limited, please visit www.finronesystems.com. Their highly experience team can also be contacted by calling 028 7134 3495 or by emailing info@finronesystems.com

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Livestock

Contact your local Lely dealer:

PJS (Agricultural Services) Ltd College Yard, East Garston,Hungerford, Berkshire RG17 7EX Tel: 01488 648 665 www.pjsagri.co.uk

Livestock Event 2015: return of the Lely live robotic milking and feeding demonstration Lely’s live combined robotic milking and feeding demonstration will be returning to this year’s Livestock Event, to be held at The NEC, Birmingham on 8 and 9 July 2015. orty cows will again be milked through a Lely Astronaut A4 robotic milking system, whilst the Lely Vector automatic feeding system will ensure they have continual access to a mixed ration in the feed passage”, explains Lely’s Tomás Cooney.

“We are also adding a beef section this year where the viewing public will be able to witness at first hand the flexibility the Lely Vector automatic feeding system offers. It is very easy to pre programme the machine to change feed

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types, adjust rations, and move to a new location while ensuring more precise feeding.”

“We were delighted with the level of enthusiasm shown by British farmers at the 2014 Livestock Event and they will once again have the opportunity of experiencing at first hand the efficiencies and labour savings automation can bring to their farm. With the 2014 robotic milking and feeding exhibit winning best feature area at the recent Exhibition News annual awards, interest in this year’s event is already gaining momentum.”

R & D M Edmondson Ltd t/a Newtown Engineering Garleigh Road, Rothbury, Morpeth, Northumberland NE65 7RG Tel: 01669 620 755 www.newtownengineering.co.uk Lely Center Holsworthy Venture Trading Ltd Units 1-4 Woodcock Park Shadrick Way, Holsworthy Ind. Est. Holsworthy, Devon, EX22 6FH Office: 01409 254413 Sales: 07887 613 223 www.facebook.com/LELYCONF01

innovators in agriculture May 2015 | Farming Monthly | 15

| Livestock

Livestock producers disappointed at plans to increase waste disposal charges Plans by St Merryn Foods to increase charges for processing beef and lamb have left beef livestock producers bitterly disappointed. he food processor announced last week that they would be increasing their charges for processing beef and lamb as of yesterday (Monday April 27) citing the recent and dramatic increase in waste disposal and rendering charges, particularly Specified Risk Material (SRM) as the reason.

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“Retailer demand is one of the key drivers of the current decline in price – ironically better cattle are suffering more than cow beef at the moment” Charges will increase to £19.20 for processing a beef animal and to £1.95 for a lamb. St Merryn claim they have held back on implementing these increased charges for as long as they could but challenging trading conditions

mean that they must recover some of the increased costs levied on their businesses.

Charles Sercombe, NFU livestock board chairman, said beef producers will be bitterly disappointed as this cost is outside of their control and comes on the back of 11 consecutive weeks of falling beef prices as a result of lacklustre consumer demand and the challenge from imported product, made more competitive by the weak euro.

“Farmers will be extremely frustrated that just a few months after the NFU and the BMPA launched the processor code of practice, we have a signatory to the code making changes to their terms and conditions without providing their producer suppliers with the 12 weeks’ notice they had promised,” said Mr Sercombe.

“We understand that St Merryn held off increasing their charges when others had already increased theirs some months ago. We assume that the

renderers would be talking to processors highlighting the pressures on animal by-product markets, if so these challenges should have been communicated to farmers; ideally within the 12 week window. This lack of transparency is totally against the letter and spirit of the processor code, and is the last thing we need when we are trying to build trust and greater transparency within the beef supply chain – which is yet again facing pressure on farm gate prices. We ask the renderers and retailers to work within the spirit of the code and communicate changes to their terms and conditions to suppliers in good time” “With Co-op, Morrison’s, Waitrose, Budgens, Aldi and Lidl all sourcing 100 per cent British,

and of the remaining retailers Sainsbury’s and Tesco sourcing 92 and 81 percent, only Asda seem to be at the bottom of the class, at just 66 per cent of facings. This independent data is from January, and while retailers who source 100 per cent British are generally committed as such, others are less clear with their sourcing commitments.

“Retailer demand is one of the key drivers of the current decline in price – ironically better cattle are suffering more than cow beef at the moment. It is great to see the breadth of support from retailers on beef, and important to hold others to account, but for the whole industry the question must be how to drive demand without devaluing the product.”

Innovative Clusterflush launched to the market Removing the risk of cross infections in the parlour is the key driver behind the launch of a new Clusterflush chemical from Progiene, a division of Rumenco. uraclean Clusterflush is a highly concentrated, non-corrosive liquid disinfectant, free from quaternary ammonium compounds (QAC’s) and harsh acids.

Alison Clark, Progiene product manager explains that the addition of Puraclean Clusterflush to Progiene’s existing dairy hygiene range is an exciting and innovative development.

“Mastitis remains one of the major income draining issues on UK dairy farms. However, an effective hygiene routine, that includes disinfecting clusters between cows, can significantly help manage cross-infections in the parlour’, says Mrs Clark.

She explains that the presence of QAC’s in milk is a serious concern for milk buyers as it can affect bacterial cultures in the milk, impeding processing stages. “So, the fact that our Clusterflush is free from QAC’s is a real benefit.

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“In addition, the product is less corrosive to milking equipment compared to acid based products, making it an ideal choice for pre-cleaning in robotic systems and is also much safer for the operator to use,” she adds.

“Mastitis remains one of the major income draining issues on UK dairy farms” “Our Clusterflush has many benefits but ultimately it’s a costeffective, rapid acting product that is proven to reduce bacteria levels in 30 seconds, and tested to EN1656:2009. This is particularly important in swingover parlours where there is less ‘unit off’ time,” says Mrs Clark.

Puraclean Clusterflush is available in 5L packs, with one highly concentrated pack making up a 200L solution to be dispersed at a 0.5% dilution through automatic cluster cleaning systems.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Livestock

Green bedding from Greencrop Greencrop, the official importer of the Sepcom range of slurry separators for farm and AD, is delighted to be able to offer the new Visscher/Sepcom green bedding separator, manufactured by the Italian Wam Group and Visscher Holland. reen bedding is becoming of great interest in the UK after its popularity in the USA and Europe for some years. Our neighbours in Holland have been using green bedding for four years and have converted to the system both on mats and deep bedding (80% of all new cubicles in Holland have gone to deep bedding). Visscher have been involved from the beginning, and have developed an automatic separator system and have over 300 working units in Holland (both static and mobile). They also have over 50 in Germany, plus units in Italy, Belgium, Denmark, Portugal, Lapland and now the UK. The new Visscher/Sepcom green bedding separator is designed to produce recycled bedding material from the separated slurry. The benefits of this system give cows better comfort in the cubicle, helps keep them cleaner and help to reduce mastitis levels in the heard, whilst also reducing bedding costs. The separator has a lower electrical demand than other machines as it is fitted with a 5.5kw motor. Due to its larger screen area and auto adjusting head, its power requirement is reduced. The Visscher/Sepcom will produce bedding with a dry matter content of 33-37 per cent.

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Our neighbours in Holland have been using green bedding for four years and have converted to the system both on mats and deep bedding It is fitted with the unique polymer sectional auger as standard, which has proved itself on other Sepcom separators for its cleaning ability during use. As well as significant advantages in keeping the screens cleaner, it aids a higher degree of separation than a steel screw system. The final part of the separation is by a Visscher screen mounted in the centre of the solid core, this allows the moisture from the inside of the solids out through the centre, thus not trying to squeeze all of the liquid to the outside. This works in conjunction with the Patented Visscher automatic press module head which adapts the counter–

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pressure to the medium`s consistency. This allows the module to automatically apply optimum pressing force. The system will continuously adjust itself to the pre-set value and this has a very close relationship with the dry matter percentage and capacity.

The PLC controller can be adjusted to the dry matter content/mass balance desired for nutrients and dryness. Only about 70% of the daily produced slurry is needed for bedding, a simple turn of a dial on the panel decreases the amps, saving energy costs and produces a faster standard separation DM for spreading on to the land. This means you don’t have to climb up and adjust the separator outlet manually every time.

Pumps and agitators The consistency and homogeneity of the slurry helps ensure a good result. It is therefore important to choose the right agitation and pump in connection with the green bedding separator.

Greencrop can provide a range of electrical mixers for the reception pits, plus for the most efficient installation we would recommend a 3kw Visscher cutting mill and positive displacement pump.

The installation is provided with a cutting mill, which is designed to work with the feed pump and all coarse particles in the slurry are finely chopped. Any coarser particles, such as stone and wood are held in the reception area for the cutting mill. This helps to protect the seals in the pump and reduces the risk of failures in the separator.

The cutting mill is mounted onto the inlet of the positive displacement pump for the supply of slurry to the separator. The capacity is about 5-20 m3 per hour. The worm pump is characterised by a constant flow of slurry, irrespective of its composition.

The rota is hardened to cope with any small hard particles, which would harm a standard positive displacement pump.

Through the control panel the pump and auto-head work together to feed the correct amount of slurry at any one time, and if there becomes a blockage or lack of product, the system will automatically shut down.

For further information on the

Cows on Visscher bedding

Visscher/Sepcom green bedding separator or any other Greencrop products, please visit our website www.greencrop.co.uk.

Alternatively, please contact Howard Chantry on 07881 787997 or email howard@greencrop.co.uk

May 2015 | Farming Monthly | 17

| Livestock

Managing lameness in your dairy cattle Over the last decade many changes have taken place on dairy farms worldwide. armers are faced with extra difficulty because of higher production expectancy, seasonal conditions, milk and livestock prices, new technologies and many other external factors.

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The product is proven to be a cost effective treatment as they have a greater retention time than traditional wooden blocks, meaning that the cost of re treatment is avoided.

Farmers are now expected to run their farms with a business focus approach- to understand risks and manage the business accordingly. As any farmer or business man will know this is easier said than done.

Risk is associated with lameness as it is the third most costly disease affecting dairy cows. Lameness decreases feed intake and mobility, thus reducing milk yield and profitability. It increases veterinary and labour costs.

Lameness is not obvious at the onset and only results in lesions after several weeks. Early detection, close observation and prompt treatment using a Cowslip from Giltspur Scientific will decrease the duration and, therefore, the cost of each case.

The accepted treatment for lameness is to raise the affected claw or digit which prevents further injury to any traumatised area and allows a rapid painless recovery.

By fitting a Cowslip to the healthy claw of a lame cow, the diseased sore claw is lifted, pain is alleviated and healing quickly takes place by transferring the weight off the affected area. Feed intake, mobility, milk yield and

18 | Farming Monthly | May 2015

reproduction levels will return to normal.

JK Shearer, a renowned hoof care expert from USA, performed a clinical observation on Cowslips and found that milk yield over a seven day period improved an average of 16.8lb for early and 7.2lb for late lactation cows.

The product is proven to be a cost effective treatment as they have a greater retention time than traditional wooden blocks, meaning that the cost of re treatment is avoided.

Cowslips can be relied on to remain in place for 4-6 weeks as

the glue has been specially designed to form a strong bond with the PVC and the horn.

Another unique feature is that the rigid side wall works with the natural concave of the hoof by supporting the hoof wall and naturally transferring the weight of the cow. The raised non-slip lattice sole provides grip and balance while also maximising cow comfort.

Quick and easy to fit, they come in an all you need kit.

For further information call +44 (0) 28 9332 2040 or visit www.giltspurscientific.com

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| Livestock

Bauer has unrivalled expertise in on-farm cubicle bedding production With more ‘green bedding’ installations on farm than any other supplier, Bauer is the undisputed leader when it comes to experience and expertise in production systems for creating cubicle bedding material from slurry. part from cost savings and the lack of hassle involved in sourcing and dealing with deliveries of bought-in bedding such as sand, wood shavings and straw, users of FAN Green Bedding separators from Bauer highlight the cow comfort and wellbeing aspects.

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“I was happy using sawdust until I came across this lovely soft bedding material and discovered I could produce it on the farm” “Instead of rationing bedding material to keep costs down and to ensure supplies hold out until the next delivery, dairymen can be generous with the daily supply of bedding produced overnight to provide cows with the ultimate in

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comfortable cubicle beds,” says Adrian Tindall, Bauer UK and Ireland sales manager.

“We’ve installed Green Bedding separators on farms with just 120 cows and almost 1700 cows, with a herd size of 200-400 cows being the most common,” he adds.

“Farmers using the system report increased cow lying times, which can translate into increased milk yield, and fewer ailments such as hock abrasions. They also like the way cows bedded on this material come into the parlour cleaner.”

He emphasises that the Green Bedding screw press engineered by the Bauer group company FAN Separator is purpose built for the job. It has a larger diameter screw tube so the flights are shallower to exert increased pressure, there are sharp-edged grooves to cut long lengths of straw and silage, and the auger floats within the heavyduty screen to protect the bearings.

“It’s one thing to achieve the 36-

38% dry matter required for bedding material over a short period but quite another to do so consistently at acceptable outputs, and to achieve an economical service life,” says Mr Tindall. “The high throughput of the Green Bedding separator means it doesn’t operate for as long as other machines to produce the same amount of material, and the low wear rate is phenomenal compared with other separators I’ve seen.”

According to early ‘green bedding’ adopter Richard Threlfell, who farms near Penrith, Cumbria, hock problems among his cows have become a thing of the past since switching from sawdust.

“I was happy using sawdust until I came across this lovely soft bedding material and discovered I could produce it on the farm,” he says. “We were spending £1500£1800 a month through the winter when the cows are housed indoors; now, the bedding is

effectively free because we would separate anyway to make slurry management easier.”

With a virtually limitless supply available, cows in the Crossfield herd of pedigree Holsteins at Plumpton Head enjoy four times as much bedding material as before and are happy to lie for longer periods.

“I had 70 bulling heifers in when I used the bedding for the first time and expected to see at least 10 to 15 of them running around, wasting energy,” says Richard.

“But when I looked in a bit later, the building was quiet and every animal was lying down. It just seems too good to be true sometimes!”

May 2015 | Farming Monthly | 19

| Cereals

Cereals 2015: Vast choice of varieties backed by expert advice Tickets for Cereals 2015 are on sale now offering visitors quick and easy access to the UK’s leading technical arable event when the gates open in just a few weeks’ time. uying tickets online in advance means visitors will avoid queuing at entrances, so they can spend more time catching up with the latest arable, technical, machinery and business advice, says event director Jon Day of Haymarket Exhibitions.

Over 500 exhibitors are expected to show their wares to more than 25,000 visitors on 1011 June at Boothby Graffoe, Lincolnshire.

“Visitors will be able to access all the key information they’ve come to expect at Cereals and a lot more besides,” says Mr Day. “Unlike other events, Cereals takes place where arable farmers go about their business – in the field. It provides an unrivalled stage for the latest technology, agronomy and machinery, where visitors can assess performance in real life – in crop plots, working demonstrations and Syngenta’s Sprays and Sprayers arena.

“There are also plenty of opportunities to catch up with the latest economic trends and political thinking that increasingly influence the farming sector. We will have a new government installed when Cereals takes place. We hope to welcome senior representatives from the new DEFRA team to the event, as we have done in recent years, to discover a little more about how agriculture will feature politically over the next five years.”

Recently introduced initiatives that proved a hit with visitors return. A CPD points trail will offer a clutch of BASIS and NRoSO points, reflecting the event’s importance within the industry.

The Inspire Pavilion, sponsored by De Lacy Executive, Massey Ferguson and McDonald’s, will highlight the wealth of career opportunities for young people in farming and associated industries.

A key discussion point will be the winning machines in the International Machinery Manufacturers’ Awards, a scheme launched last year to recognise machines that deliver exceptional innovation, effectiveness and value.

All will feature on a special stand at the event.

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The technical seminars also return but in a new format, featuring a 20-minute presentation followed by a 10-minute question and answer session. This will allow visitors to hear about and discuss the latest topics, while leaving more time to take in trade stands and other event features.

Other key features include: Crop plots – an opportunity to see the latest varieties and agronomy in the flesh.

Machinery – most leading manufacturers will be represented, offering the perfect shop window for new kit.

Arable Conference in partnership with The Oxford Farming Conference – three debates headlined by industry-leading farmers, scientists, policymakers and environmentalists.

Working demonstrations – cultivations, drills and guidance systems being put through their paces.

Sprays & Sprayers – innovations, application technology plus 50 of the latest sprayers in action in Syngenta’s Sprays and Sprayers arena.

Renewables – showcasing the wide range of opportunities available from renewable energy, renewable fuels and other non-food crops.

Post-harvest technology – the place to reassess drying and storage needs to maintain crops in the best condition.

Business area – expert information from rural consultants, banks, and the IT sector to help drive business profitability.

HSBC returns as the Cereals event principal sponsor. Allan Wilkinson, head of agriculture at the bank, says Cereals 2015 will be as much about the detail as the big picture.

“The debates will include an up-to-the minute look at the latest developments in the Basic Payment Scheme process and other key topics.

“At the same time, by the second week of June we will be some five weeks into a new government, and the new ministerial team will get its first outing in front of the sector.

“We will also need to keep abreast of matters global - growing conditions and weather patterns around the world and their impact on

prices,” says Mr Wilkinson.

“Meanwhile on the farm, for most producers the prospect of lacklustre prices and a strengthening sterling does inevitably bring attention to the little differences in technique and systems that, when added together, could make the difference between breakeven and a small loss. Much to see, lots to listen to, and plenty to seek counsel from.”

Tickets are available at www.cerealsevent.co.uk/Content/Tickets and cost £24 for an adult and £20 for a student, including VAT. E-tickets can be printed out at home and brought on the day to be scanned at the entrance. Group discounts are available for advance bookings.

Cereals 2015 takes place on Wednesday 10th and Thursday 11th June, at Boothby Graffoe, Lincolnshire. Further information at www.cerealsevent.co.uk

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Cereals

2015 Harvest using fob Micro Wing on V-Form activated weigh beams and trailed Oil Drill With the introduction to the market of a portable unmanned weighbridge with fob activated tare weights for tractor/trailer combinations, agricultural contractors have not been slow in looking into ways of using this system to its maximum potential. he original system from GRIFFITH ELDER consisted of 2.8m long beams and ramps, armoured cables, traffic light, and WB4 indicator housed in a waterproof case with printer and built in power supply and was designed for twin axle trailers as a weigh in and weigh out system.

The development of a new WB6RF control system paved the way for fobs to be used to activate the system and apply a pre entered tare weight to the weighing calculation. The system can accommodate up to 99 different vehicle entries and a fob can be allocated to any one of these entries in a matter of seconds.

With the introduction of chaser bins and tri-axle trailers, a new

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4.2m long system has been developed for the 2015 harvest, that can weigh the tractor in one go and the trailer in a second bite.

The development of a new WB6RF control system paved the way for fobs to be used to activate the system and apply a pre entered tare weight to the weighing calculation The most attractive features of this system are its speed of operation, portability and ease of use, all essential when you need to keep cycle times from field to barn to a minimum, especially if you are relying on seasonal workers who are grain carting and may need to be called upon at short notice.

V-Form is a long established Cousins product that has shown great flexibility in adapting to farming’s ever changing needs. From the initial staggered subsoiler concept with robust ‘level lift’ feet, long recognised as a fast and effective soil loosening system, through the addition of OSR seeders and more recently the introduction of Micro-Wing option. he shallow working MicroWing tines are followed by targeted seeding and razor ring 'leg zone' press wheels which focus consolidation over the seeded areas within the cultivated 'leg zone' ensuring consistent seed depth and coverage with minimal moisture loss. The result is rapid and even emergence of the crop which allows for treatment with pre-emergence herbicide and optimises performance of residual black grass herbicides.

Effectively a strip tillage machine, the development of the double depth Micro Wing leg allows for minimal surface soil disturbance but with deeper soil movement if required for sugar

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beet or wet harvest conditions.

The Micro Wing tines disturb less than 20% of the soil with each pass which requires much less horse power and provides excellent fuel economy.

These models plus Cousins latest Rolls will be on stand 1112 at Cereals 2015.

For further information please contact the Cousins of Emneth Sales Office on 01945 584 600 or visit www.cousinsofemneth.co.uk

May 2015 | Farming Monthly |21

| Diet Feeders

22 | Farming Monthly | May 2015

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| Cereals

Use it or lose it!

If we could give one piece of advice to farmers it would be this: take advantage of the enhanced Annual Investment Allowance (AIA) that the Government is offering while you still can! n March 2014 the Government announced a temporary increase in the allowance from £250,000 to £500,000, although on 1st January 2016 it is set to revert back to just £25,000. This means that at the moment you may be entitled to offset 100% of purchases of plant and machinery (up to a value of £500,000) against your tax bill. This does, however, depend on when your financial year commences.

The good news is that solar panels and wind turbines are classified as plant and machinery.

If you invest in solar PV panels or a wind turbine you could be earning a 15+%, index-linked return over a guaranteed twenty-year period.

That is potentially a return of 30% if you can claim the full tax deductible allowance.

Even without the tax relief, a 250kW ground-mounted installation of solar PV panels would cost around £262,500 plus

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VAT for a fully completed project. If 50% of the electricity generated could be used on your site, this would earn around £45,423 giving a return on investment of 17.3%.

Even if you are a low user and export everything, you can still make a 14.5% return.

If you invest in solar PV panels or a wind turbine you could be earning a 15+%, index-linked return over a guaranteed twenty-year period.

Some further good news for anyone thinking of purchasing a solar PV roof system is that planning rules have been relaxed so that now roof-mounted systems up to 1MW do not need planning permission (subject to certain criteria).

For more information or to talk through your options, please give us a call on 01283 736637.

Väderstad five year finance option cuts establishment costs Väderstad is offering a five year interest free finance option available until July 2015 up to a maximum of 60% of the full RRP of all equipment or to the actual balance to be financed whichever is the lower, except the Rolex range and Biodrills sold separately. Dealer and demo machines are also excluded. he pressure on agricultural commodity prices and production costs has had an impact on growers’ appetite for investment, so providing an attractive finance offer should take some of the pressure off cashflow,” says the company’s UK managing director Mike Alsop.

VAT on hire purchase schemes is payable in full on signing, while VAT on lease agreements is payable on each due rental.

All terms are correct at date of

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preparation and may be subject to change in line with prevailing funding costs or company policy. Terms may be amended or withdrawn at any time by written notice. Finance is provided by Hitachi Capital Business Finance.

“An attractive finance offer should take some of the pressure off cashflow” For further information please contact your local dealer or Väderstad direct on 01476 581900.

May 2015 | Farming Monthly | 23

| Security

Featured Dealers:

Ravenhill Hereford, Herefordshire HR4 9QJ T: 01432 352333 www.ravenhill.co.uk

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

24 | Farming Monthly | May 2015

Robert D. Webster Driffield East Yorkshire YO25 4RF T: 01262 420226 www.robertdwebster.co.uk

Andrew Symons Holsworthy Devon EX22 6HL T: 01409 254 040 www.andrewsymons.co.uk

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

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| Cereals

Electronics for Precision Dale Drills finds new formula Visit David King Electronics at Cereals 2015, Stand 107, to see the latest developments in field sprayer electronics, including 3 options for automatic steering as detailed below. ption 1 is TRACKLeader AUTO® eSteer: an easy electric steering wheel installation that is cost effective with simple mounting brackets. Its compact electric motor mounts directly to the existing steering wheel. A brushless drive, which operates almost silently, combines high torque with low power consumption. It can be retrofitted and can be easily moved from machine to machine, which ensures the maximum utilization and a rapid return on investment.

The 2nd option, TRACK-Leader AUTO® Iso, is designed to give precise hydraulic steering to tractors and machines already preequipped as “auto steer ready”.

This gives simple and quick installation with communication via the tractor ISOBUS network and only needing to be equipped with a steering computer.

The 3rd option TRACK-Leader AUTO® Pro is the most accurate fully integrated auto steer solution

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with direct access to the tractor or machine hydraulic steering system it accurately steers to keep the machine on track.

Common to all TRACK-Leader AUTO® steering systems, MüllerElektronik offers products with state-of-the art-technology. The steering computer includes the indispensable 6-axis gyroscope, which facilitates the assembly and more important, it is responsible for the outstanding result of the steering. The gyroscope detects all movements of the machine, roll, pitch and yaw; regardless of the driven path it compensates perfectly uneven and hilly terrain.

The TRACK-Leader AUTO® steering systems are also offered with a choice of terminals. Either TOUCH800 (8 inch), TRACK-Guide III or TOUCH1200 (12 inch) ISOBUS compliant terminals can be used.

For further information about Müller-Elektronik products contact their UK distributor David King Electronics Ltd on 01789731365, visit www.dkelectronics.co.uk or www.mueller-elektronik.de/en/

Dale Drills have been busy further developing their product range to include the new Eco-T, improving their back up to customers by adding a new product support van and employing a new service engineer. om Maplethorpe joined Dale Drills from Williams F1 team having spent the previous few years working on Felipe Massa’s car. Tom’s enthusiasm for motor sports began at a young age when he raced motorbikes round his family farm. His engineering skills came as a necessity due to his constant crashing! ‘Tom is already bringing new ideas to the business and we hope his experience at Williams can be put to good use making our drills the best in the paddock’, said director Tom Dale.

The Eco-T has been designed for smaller farms and is available in sizes from 3–6m. It uses the company’s unique Eco-Drill assemblies mounted to a trailed

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frame in a 3 row stagger. Land wheels mounted between the first and second row allow for trash flow whilst supporting the 2.2t capacity hopper. The narrow drilling knives contribute to a very low hp requirement, allowing a 4.8m machine to be pulled with just 150hp. ‘The fact that the Eco-T can be pulled with a relatively small tractor has huge advantages, not just reducing soil compaction, but also reducing costs such as depreciation and fuel use’, said James Dale.

Dale Drills will be showing the Eco-T, Eco-Drill and mounted Eco at Cereals on stand number 1135.

See us at

Stand no. 107

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May 2015 | Farming Monthly | 25

| Grassland & Silage

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

APM Supplies Winchester Road Little Somborne, Stockbridge Hampshire SO20 6QT 01794 388622 www.apm-supplies.co.uk

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

Boston Crop Sprayers Little Field, Fen Road Frampton West Boston Lincolnshire PE20 1RZ 01205 722240 www.bostoncropsprayersltd.co.uk

Boston Crop Sprayers North End Wisbech Cambridgeshire PE13 1PE 01945 461181 www.bostoncropsprayersltd.co.uk

Toplink Dexters Farm Bardwell Bury St Edmunds Suffolk IP31 1AP Tel: 01359 253691

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Flowgro Barton Turn Farm Barton Under Needwood Burton on Trent Staffordshire DE13 8ED 01283 716 204 www.flowgro.co.uk

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| Cereals

Find out why solar isn’t dead at this year’s Cereals event The UK’s largest provider of solar energy is inviting farmers and landowners at this year’s Cereals event to find out why the future remains bright for the industry. xperts from Lightsource Renewable Energy will be on Stand 705 at this year’s Cereals event to advise on how both ground-mounted and rooftop solar panels can be integrated into your existing farming system.

Despite recent changes to legislation there is still plenty of opportunity for those who want to diversify their income and invest in solar technology.

Conor McGuigan, business development director at Lightsource, said: “There’s been a lot of speculation recently over the future of solar power and if it’s still a worthwhile investment.

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Despite recent changes to legislation there is still plenty of opportunity for those who want to diversify their income and invest in solar technology “Landowners and farmers can rest assured that there are still plenty of opportunities available. However, decisions have to be made

wisely. Landowners need to be careful and choose a developer that they can trust, which has sound financial backing and a proven track record of delivering successful projects time and time again.”

Lightsource is also offering rural businesses the chance to cut their electricity bills with a new rooftop solar tariff of just 5p per kilowatthour (Kwh).

It is available for premises with a roofspace greater than 400sq m – with every 100sq m generating a saving of at least £35,400 over 25 years when compared to a current competitive commercial tariff of 10p.

Unlike schemes from other providers – where businesses have to commit to buying a significant percentage of the electricity generated regardless of how much they might actually need – the Lightsource tariff is offered with no purchase obligations. You only pay for what you need.

Businesses enter into a solar power purchase agreement (PPA) with Lightsource who will supply daytime electricity to the premises from the solar installation for a standard term of 25 years.

There will be no disruption to the building’s

electricity supply as the solar PPA will work in harmony with the regular electricity supplier.

Mr McGuigan added: “There is no installation cost and our engineers will work with your business to ensure any disruption is kept to a minimum. Panels can be installed over just a few days. Lightsource will design, build, operate and maintain the whole scheme – while also ensuring the rooftop is fully insured. It’s hassle free.

A Point Point tto o Prove Prove Nothing satisfies curiosity more effectively than trying it for yourself! More and more farmers are discovering the benefits associated with our tungsten carbide Marathon points.

Curious to experience how hard metal points beha behav ve in your soil?

Contact your local Authorised Dealer to register for a free Marathon point. These are av available for TopDown, Opus, Cultus or Swift cultivat ators. ors. Registration closes 30 June 2015. Terms Terms and Conditions appl

Contact Väderstad UK Ltd for more information.

Unit One, Ellesmere Business Park, Park, Grant Grantham, Lincolnshire NG31 7XT. 7XT. aderstad.com ad.com T: 01476 581900 E: keith.jones@vaderstad.com W: www.vaderst

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May 2015 | Farming Monthly | 27

| Cereals

New Holland to show latest equipment at Cereals Innovative machinery, including the recently launched T8 range will be on show. ew Holland will be bringing its range of innovative tractors, combines, balers and material handling equipment to this year’s Cereals Event.

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Visitors will also be given a taste of the future, with information on an innovative new combine header, which will soon be available to UK farmers The stand will feature the recently re-launched T8 range, with Tier 4B engines, which offer

improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, and the new LM Elite model telehandler – designed for impressive handling ability and superior operator comfort.

Those seeking to upgrade or replace their combine harvester after 2015 harvest, can talk to specialists on the stand about the CR and CX ranges, and the special offers available on combine finance deals until the end of August.

Visitors will also be given a taste of the future, with information on an innovative new combine header, which will soon be available to UK farmers.

28 | Farming Monthly | May 2015

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| Cereals

Graham Heath Construction to attend Cereals 2015 Always ones to embrace a big agricultural event, GHC are excited to announce that they will be exhibiting their CE Marked farm buildings at Cereals 2015! Joining over 25,000 farmers, agronomists and industry suppliers at the two day event in Lincolnshire. raham Heath Construction have been supplying steel framed buildings for over 19 years for Agricultural, Industrial and Equestrian customers. With a track record of over 8000 buildings under their belt, they pride themselves within their industry as supplying quality buildings at an affordable price. As a family run business and farmers/horse owners by trade, their understanding of what is expected and required is at the heart of all their buildings.

All of GHC’s buildings are fabricated in their own workshop in Cheshire, which allows them to manufacture a truly bespoke

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building. They use Tekla, Strucad and Auto Cad to design buildings to the customer’s exact requirements. They also supply CE rated concrete panels and cladding.

Graham Heath Construction was awarded the CE Mark certification back in June 2014, which means customers can be assured that their fabricated structural steelwork complies with all relevant European Union standards and regulations.

You can visit GHC’s on-site sales team at Stand 408 to help design and quote for your building. Or if you simply can’t wait until June, you can visit www.ghconstruction.co.uk to find out more.

May 2015 | Farming Monthly | 29

| Cereals

A golden opportunity for a new look HGCA at Cereals The latest chapter in the 50 year history of HGCA will open at Cereals 2015, where it will exhibit in its new guise as AHDB Cereals and Oilseeds. he event, taking place on June 10 – 11 at Boothby Graffoe, will see the official unveiling of AHDB’s simplified family of levy-payer facing brands.

The Golden Jubilee stand (no. 902) will feature established favourites – such as Recommended Lists plot tours and a plethora of independent experts – in addition to a celebration of the innovative and adaptive nature of the industry.

It will also look at the work underway to meet the challenges that lie ahead. Initiatives designed to secure a sustainable and profitable future for cereals and oilseeds businesses through investment and collaboration will be demonstrated across the stand.

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“Cereals is about meeting levy payers people face-to-face and giving them access to the information they need to improve their businesses, as well as highlighting how much we are doing behind the scenes to prepare the industry for what lies ahead.”

Director Rebecca Geraghty said: “The sector has changed radically over the past 50 years and will continue to do so. This key milestone in the organisation’s history provides a perfect

30 | Farming Monthly | May 2015

opportunity to reflect on how far the industry has come and how we can further evolve to ensure a prosperous and productive future.

“We want to provide cereals and oilseeds businesses with the tools and knowledge to thrive in years to come, and in our new incarnation we will be better placed to make sure every penny of levy is invested for the maximum benefit of our levy payers.

“Cereals is about meeting those people faceto-face and giving them access to the information they need to improve their businesses, as well as highlighting how much we are doing behind the scenes to prepare the industry for what lies ahead.”

HGCA, constituted as the Home-Grown Cereals Authority by the Cereals Marketing Act 1965, was brought together with other agricultural and horticultural levy boards in 2008 under the AHDB banner. The rebrand will also see BPEX become AHDB Pigs, DairyCo become AHDB Dairy, EBLEX become AHDB Beef & Lamb, HDC become AHDB Horticulture and Potato Council become AHDB Potatoes. www.hgca.com/cereals Highlights for 2015 • Recommended Lists variety plot tours: taking place throughout the day for wheat, barley and oilseed rape • Latest research: talk to the experts on developments to improve agronomic decisionmaking, with exhibits on a range of topics including black grass, fungicide performance,

genetics and grain quality • Measure to Manage zone: find out how to extract value from the market, maximise your profits and benefit from understanding your cost of production • Meet the Monitor Farmers: discuss how involvement in the programme has started to reap rewards for their – and their neighbours’ – arable enterprises • Rapeseed Oil Benefits zone: attend cooking demonstrations and sample recipes developed

by HGCA to encourage people to use rapeseed oil in their everyday cooking • Exports: find out about uks and ukp wheat varieties and about BCE’s work with overseas grain buyers and governments • Information zone: pick up the latest publications and sign up to receive regular news

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| Root Crops & Potatoes

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May 2015 | Farming Monthly | 31

| Cereals

New Kuhn Min-Till Drill offers faster drilling speeds with lower HP requirement Kuhn Farm Machinery will be using this year’s Cereals event to officially launch a new 6-metre minimum tillage drill that is capable of being pulled by a 200 hp tractor and drilling accurately at forward working speeds up to 17km/h. orward operating speed is a key priority when drilling, to ensure all crops are sown in a timely fashion whilst making the best use of optimum conditions,” explains Duncan McLeish, UK Sales Manager for Kuhn Farm Machinery. “But this speed should never be at the expense of accuracy. Nor should it compromise overall operational efficiency, which means horsepower requirements should also be a consideration.”

Kuhn’s new ESPRO minimum tillage drill has a 6-metre working width and has been designed with an equal focus on three key aspects of the drilling process: speed, accuracy and efficiency.

The new machine uses the best of Kuhn’s existing seed drilling technologies and expertise as well as a selection of innovative design elements.

“Two rows of 460mm concave discs are responsible for opening the soil and incorporating all residues into the surface layers, creating a fine tilth and functioning effectively even in heavy conditions,” Mr McLeish adds.

“These discs are followed, in the centre of the drill, by a row of 900mm diameter press wheels which create an evenly consolidated soil profile for consistent soil-to-seed contact.”

The large diameter of the press wheel helps to reduce the overall rolling resistance of the ESPRO, with the deep-treaded tyres also augmenting improved soil crumbling for a finer tilth. The tyres also feature a specially designed

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Contact your nearest Kuhn dealer today...

32 | Farming Monthly | May 2015

square profile to ensure uniform consolidation across the machine’s full working width. The press wheels are also arranged in a front-to-rear offset design to further reduce rolling resistance, with 85mm inter-wheel spaces helping to minimise soil bulldozing and maintain good soil flow.

Further innovation comes with the CROSSFLEX seed bar, which has coulter arms mounted on polyurethane blocks that provide a secure fixing but with sufficient spring movement to maintain a precise seed depth at high working speeds.

Double disc coulters, as used on Kuhn’s successful SEEDFLEX system, provide the precision seed placement required for optimum crop performance.

The ESPRO is ISOBUS compatible and can be operated via Kuhn’s CCI200 (ISOBUS) or VT50 (non-ISOBUS) terminals. A joystick is also available as an option. Regardless of the control box selected, the operator is provided with an easy to use interface combining touch screen and soft keys.

To facilitate headland turns, the drill is equipped with a headland management mode whereby, at the touch of a button, the working elements are lifted in sequence on approaching the headland to allow drilling to continue right up to field edge. The metering unit is stopped with the lifting of the front tools to ensure that seed in the delivery hoses is placed in the soil before the elements are lifted, thereby avoiding any seed

being left on the soil surface. Once the turn is completed, the sequence is reversed.

Calibration is simple and can be completed in less than five minutes, and the front working discs, seeding depth and coulter pressure can all be set and adjusted using easy to access clips on hydraulic cylinders; there is no need to climb in or over the machine to make adjustments.

The ESPRO has also been designed to be easy to maintain and provide reliability throughout the season. Front working and seeding discs have sealed bearings (zero maintenance) and elsewhere there are a minimum number of pivot points and moving sections which require attention.

Additional options include track eradicators, front press wheels, pre-emergence markers and hydraulic or pneumatic brake systems.

“All in all, the ESPRO features all the elements required to enable time-critical seed drilling operations to be carried out quickly and accurately,” Mr McLeish concludes. “And with a power requirement of less than 35hp per metre of working width, the ESPRO can be used with tractors with just 200hp, making it suited to the majority of modern farming businesses, as well as larger scale arable contractors.”

The 6-metre ESPRO 6000 R and a 3-metre ESPRO 3000 version will be available in limited quantities from summer 2015. Other models and working widths will follow in the coming years.

New Forest Farm Machinery Salisbury Road, Blashford, Ringwood, Hampshire BH24 3PE 01425 472 572 www.newforestfarm.com

Lower Quinton Garages Ltd Goose Lane, Upper Quinton, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire CV37 8SX 01789 720265 www.lqgltd.co.uk

Mike Garwood Agri. Eng. Shelleys Barn, Shelleys Lane East Woldham, Alton Hampshire GU34 3AQ 01420 84458 www.mikegarwoodltd.co.uk

KO Machines Ltd Lower Larches Farm Larches Lane, Wolverhampton West Midlands WV10 7PA 01902 798771 www.komachines.co.uk

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| Buildings

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May 2015 | Farming Monthly | 33

| Cereals

New John Deere trailed sprayer at Cereals 2015 A new high specification 4400-litre capacity trailed sprayer from John Deere will be making its UK show debut at Cereals 2015 in June. he R944i model on display, together with its new M Series mid specification equivalent the M944(i), mean that John Deere now offers a wider range of specifications and configurations than ever before in a machine of this size, with a choice of manual, semi-automatic or fully automated sprayers.

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The full range of R900 & M900 Series sprayers replace the previous 800 Series trailed models, which will stop production later in 2015 The latest models offer the same basic features as the larger M & R Series sprayers up to 6200 litres, but with a smaller tank size.

Both new versions have the same low profile tank design and low centre of gravity for maximum stability under all spraying conditions, while the established

axle steering system provides accurate tracking on the headlands to reduce wheeling damage.

Powerful, high-capacity twin piston diaphragm sprayer pumps supply liquid at 560 litres/min for fast automatic filling and spraying.

An optionally available centrifugal pump boosts filling capacity to 700 litres/min.

A wide choice of durable steel spray booms is available, from 24 to 30m (double-folding) and 24 to 40m (triple-folding). These feature a central pendulum for boom levelling, anti-yaw suspension system, vertical and horizontal boom breakaway protection and durable pivot points.

Optional intelligent solutions for more accurate and efficient spraying include the BoomTrac automatic boom height control system, pressure recirculation and AutoDilute. The SolutionCommand automatic solution management system with AutoDilute lets the operator accurately fill, agitate, spray and multi-cycle rinse the sprayer, disposing of residues at

34 | Farming Monthly | May 2015

the push of a button on the tractor’s GreenStar display.

The standard GreenStar 2630 display in the tractor cab supports a full range of automatic guidance, documentation, ISOBUS implement control and performance monitoring features; this and the multi-function joystick are the only two operator controls in the cab.

The new M944(i) and R944i also offer a wider range of tyre options than ever before on trailed

sprayers of this capacity, to reduce ground pressure and thus help avoid compaction and soil damage. In addition, larger diameter tyres offer less rolling resistance, reducing the power required to pull the sprayer especially in difficult ground conditions.

The full range of R900 & M900 Series sprayers replace the previous 800 Series trailed models, which will stop production later in 2015.

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| Cereals

Spaldings to showcase their vast range of products together with several new product launches Come along to stand 500 to have a look and play with the vast array of agricultural parts, tools and equipment brought to you by Spaldings. e continue to listen to our large customer base to further develop our extensive product range in order to meet your specific needs. 2015 sees the addition of a Mulching Flail Topper, a wide range of high quality workshop tools, over 40 new replacement parts and much more.

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LED lights suitable for grain stores qualify for funding available through the Rural Payments Agency New Mulching Flail Topper The new front and rear mounted multi flail topper from Spaldings has a 14mm double skin chassis with efficient design and high build quality providing outstanding durability. Available in two sizes, the 2m with 18 rotating flails and

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the 2.4m with 22 rotating flails, both machines have fixed cutting flails and a serrated shear bar for highly effective shredding action.

The rear roller has three height adjustments for different applications including cutting grass, maize, scrub, stubble, fallow land and sapling trees, with a maximum cutting diameter of 115mm. The 450mm hydraulic side shaft allows it to get close to field boundaries and around any obstructions. Watch a video of the Flail Topper in action at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v =Vx-AtyX8sy8 .

New Range of Workshop Tools Spaldings bring you a wide range of industrial quality workshop tools to meet the needs of agricultural engineers. The KS Tools range includes clamping grips, wrenches, pliers, oen knives and more. Come along and view the full range on our stand.

New LED polycarbonate lights that qualify for Government Grants

Our new range of polycarbonate LED lights suitable for grain stores qualify for funding available through the Rural Payments Agency towards the cost of installing LED lighting in livestock housing. This applies to non-intensive dairy, pig or poultry

farms.

For details on products supplied

by Spaldings, contact 01522 507 600 or from Republic of Ireland 1800 255 455, email: agsales@spaldings.co.uk or view the product range at www.spaldings.co.uk

May 2015 | Farming Monthly | 35

| Grassland

Grassland UK tickets in Kubota’s popular agristrong demand machinery showcasing at Grassland event Tickets for this year’s Grassland UK are on sale, with visitors able to save £3 on adult tickets by booking in advance.

Agricultural machinery specialist, Kubota, is exhibiting an array of its new tractor’s and utility vehicles at this year’s Grasslands UK show on 7th May, including special editions of its new RTV-X900 and M135GX-II tractor with exclusive designs and features that have been added especially for visitors attending the one day event.

eld on a working farm in Somerset, Grassland UK covers every aspect of forage production, from seeds to feeds, with machinery demonstrations, a technical advice area, seminars, silage clamp demonstrations and trade stands from all sectors of the industry.

The one-day triennial event attracts more than 8000 visitors from across the UK and beyond, showcasing a vast array of machinery demonstrations over the 100-acre site. “Visitors are able to see the latest equipment in action, learn about new grass varieties and technology, and speak to experts on any related topic,” says Head of Shows Alan Lyons.

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In addition to the working grass demonstrations, machinery exhibitors will be demonstrating loading/handling equipment using the mown grass in the farm silage clamp “Grassland UK really is a onestop shop for anything to do with forage production. Whether you’re interested in grass establishment, harvesting, baling, ensiling or feeding, it is one of the most important dates in a livestock producer’s diary.”

Agrii has reseeded the site in preparation for the event, with Origin Fertiliser providing the nutritional requirements. “We’re very proud to be sponsoring Grassland UK again, as it really does cover every aspect of livestock farmers’ interests,” says Brendan Paul, Agrii’s seed manager. “We look forward to inviting visitors onto our stand to see our demonstrations and discuss how we’re bringing the advanced tools currently used in arable farming to the livestock sector.”

Mapping of the site has been undertaken by the students from Wiltshire College Lackham using the very latest GPS technology.

In addition to the working grass demonstrations, machinery exhibitors will be demonstrating loading/handling equipment using the mown grass in the farm silage clamp.

Further to the machinery demonstrations visitors can attend seminars organised by the British Grassland Society; visit over 100 trade stands showcasing a variety of related products: • Extension frame for Mixit lagoon stirrers • TurboJet Vari-Speed pneumatic grass seeder (Stocks AG) • Dan Jet Pro 240 spinning disc grass seeder (Stocks AG) • Albutt Bag Filler • SilaPactor from Kelvin Cave to improve dry matter compaction • Deluxe Cow Cubicle from JFC Manufacturing (Europe) Ltd • Advance Crop Specific Silage Inoculants (Micronbio-Systems Ltd) The packed seminar programme, sponsored by the British Grassland Society, DairyCo and Eblex, will feature leading speakers on topics including CAP reform, weed control, precision farming and growing high protein forages. “The seminars on land drainage and alleviating soil compaction are sure to be particularly topical following last year’s devastating floods on the Somerset Levels,” adds Mr Lyons.

Muck and slurry demonstrations will also take place throughout the day, with more than 140 trade stands showcasing everything from seeds and fertiliser to mowers, balers, tedders, livestock handling and feeding equipment.

Visitors can earn four BASIS CPD points for attending the event, which takes place adjacent to the Royal Bath & West Showground on Thursday 7th May from 9am to 4pm. For more information or to book tickets, visit www.bathandwest.com

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ttracting an average of 8,000 livestock farmers from all over the UK and Europe, Grasslands UK demonstrates the best agricultural machinery currently on the market on over 100 acres of land at the Royal Bath & West of England Society Showground, making it a key date in the show calendar for machinery experts such as Kubota.

A series of new product launches have already taken place for Kubota in 2015 and the company is keen to demonstrate the endless possibilities of its latest products to visitors, including its M100GX–II, which is

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powered by advanced turbo charged 4 cylinder Kubota CRS diesel engines to provide greater power and efficiency when carrying out tasks on farms.

For those farmers and contractors needing a tractor with an exceptional lifting force that can deliver on speed, reliability and performance, the new M135GX-II Series tractor is perfect for handling the most demanding of agricultural jobs. The tractor incorporates PTO control and Intelli-Shift 8 transmission for improved functionality.

Kubota’s hugely popular RTVX900 will appear noticeably different to visitors at Grasslands.

The new model was launched last year incorporating all of the

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| Grassland

rugged build quality of its predecessor alongside new features such as a 21.6HP, 3cylinder liquid cooled diesel engine for improved convenience and driveability.

Kubota’s line-up also includes the 50 horsepower MK5000,

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targeted at those working in agricultural and horticultural sectors due to its ability to carry out repetitive motions, ensure smooth operation when making tight turns and work on even the most difficult of terrain in all weather conditions.

Adrian Langmead, Business Development Manager for Tractor & Groundcare, said: “We have a couple of very unique show special edition vehicles to unveil to visitors at Grasslands this year that I’m sure they will love.

“We’ve already had some exciting agricultural launches in 2015 but we want to go one step further and highlight just what can be done to a Kubota vehicle to really make it stand out.

“The Kubota team will be on hand at the show to offer advice and demonstrate why our tractors and new RTV are just what a modern day farmer needs to carry out the most demanding of tasks quickly and efficiently.”

The tractors will not all be on static display, there will be a chance to see them in action with a host of different implement’s fitted and working around the site.

As a market leader in the mid range tractor market, Kubota is keen to show off its more well-

known machinery to livestock and dairy farmers on the day, including its 100 horsepower M9960, which incorporates a 36x36 multi stage transmission, hydraulic shuttle and a maximum speed of 40kph.

For those farmers and contractors needing a tractor with an exceptional lifting force that can deliver on speed, reliability and performance, the new M135GX-II Series tractor is perfect for handling the most demanding of agricultural jobs

For more information on Kubota and its extensive range of solutions for the groundcare and agriculture sectors visit www.kubota.co.uk or call 01844 268000.

May 2015 | Farming Monthly | 37

| Renewables

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| Grassland

Two new high output additions to CLAAS Green harvest range The two new additions to the CLAAS high output VOLTO tedder and LINER rake ranges will be making their way to customers for this year’s grass silage harvest. hese new additions to the CLAAS Green Harvest range draw upon wellproven CLAAS technology and add to this new developments, such as the MAX SPREAD concept on VOLTO tedders, designed to achieve higher productivity and improved results. These two new additions to the range are also designed to fully compliment the new range of DISCO MAX CUT mowers, which will be on display at Grassland UK.

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Between fields, the new running gear on the LINER 3600 is designed so that transport height remains below 4.00m, allowing it to be safely transported down the road without having to remove any tine arms New VOLTO 1300T tedder Following the introduction of the award winning MAX SPREAD crop flow concept on the VOLTO 1100, 900, 800 and 700 models, a new 13.00m version has now been added – the VOLTO 1300T. The new VOLTO 1300T is a 10 rotor trailed machine and the widest tedder in the current CLAAS range. Each of the rotors is 1.50m wide and fitted with seven spreader arms with heavy duty 10.5mm sprung steel tines.

Instead of the spreading arms being straight, with the MAX SPREAD system the spreader arms are angled by 29 degrees to improve crop flow through the tedder. As a result the spreading arms work for 65% longer and the increase in pick-up rate results in higher working speeds.

Compared with conventional straight spreading arms the crop flow between the rotors has more space, this reduces the load on the driveline, reduces the bending forces on the tines and is more gentle on the crop. As a result of this linear flow through the tedding rotors, larger volumes of crop can pass through, so helping increase throughput but also provides a wider and more even spread pattern.

For different crop conditions, the spreading angle can be

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adjusted between 16° and 12°, without the use of tools. The standard specification includes a hydraulic headland crop guard and there is a new optional headland lift system that enables all the rotors to be lifted while still turning.

In addition to the support wheels on each rotor, for optimum ground following, the VOLTO 1300T is also fitted as standard with a double castor wheels on the drawbar.

Compact LINER 3600 In order to achieve an even, consistent swath for high output foragers and balers, CLAAS has introduced a new rake, the LINER 3600, on which the working width can be adjusted from 9.90m up to 12.50m, but is designed so that it is compact to transport down the road.

The LINER 3600 succeeds the LINER 3500 and uses well triedand-tested components from the rest of the LINER range, including the continuously lubricated and hermetically sealed cam track.

Each of the tine arms has four dual tines, which are secured using the PROFIX quick-change system.

For accurate ground following and to avoid crop contamination, each rotor is equipped with a large four-wheel chassis. In addition, the contour wheels are positioned extremely close to the tines, so that the rotor can accurately follow ground contours.

The LINER 3600 is controlled using the new OPERATOR control terminal or the COMMUNICATOR II. Using these terminals, the delay between the front and rear rotors lifting or lowering can be easily set, and the LINER 3600 also has an optional Load Sensing system.

Alternatively, the LINER 3600 can be controlled using an ISOBUS cable via an ISOBUS-compatible control terminal.

Between fields, the new running gear on the LINER 3600 is designed so that transport height remains below 4.00m, allowing it to be safely transported down the road without having to remove any tine arms. If necessary the transport height or ground clearance can also be simply adjusted whilst on the move, without needing to the use the control terminal. The new running gear also makes it possible to fit large-volume, ground-protecting 620/40 R22.5 tyres and still keep

the machine within 3.00m for transport.

While its low centre of gravity ensures that the new LINER 3600

can be quickly and safely transported on the road, this also has the advantage of ensuring that it is safe to use on hills.

May 2015 | Farming Monthly | 39

| Grassland

UK launch for new generation forage additive range This year’s Grassland UK will see the launch of a completely new range of acid-based forage additive products from the Swedish manufacturer Perstorp, which use the latest chemical technology to achieve excellent results. erstorp is one of the largest multi-national producers of speciality chemicals in the world and uses salts of organic formic and propionic acids as a buffer and combines these with modern chemical technology to produce a range of highly effective additives that can be used in a wide range of conditions.

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By including propionic acid, this prevents heating once the clamp has been opened and after the silage has been fed out.

ProMyr™ silage additives Propionic and formic acid are well proven within the UK market and unlike inoculants are far more flexible in the way they can be used and are not so dependent on weather conditions.

Perstorp will be launching two propionic acid derived products under their ProMyr™ brand.

The first is a new generation gas forming additive of sodium propionate and sodium nitrate salts, that is ideal for use with both clamp and wrapped bale silage.

Being gas forming, it is highly effective in killing bacteria and preventing the formation of mycotoxins and other unwanted fermentation products. The gas will also permeate through the silage, providing thorough protection even where distribution is uneven, making it the ideal

solution for baled silage.

One of the first to trial this new product in the UK and see the benefits is Geoff Hewitt who has used it on his own silage and also recommended ProMyr™ to clients of his specialist feed company Roadhead Farm Feeds.

“Inoculants can be variable,” he explains.

“But the results from changing to ProMyr™ have been really excellent. On one customer’s farm, even though there was no obvious reason for it, they had a lot of trouble with pockets of mould developing, but with ProMyr™ this has been totally stopped. The results have been excellent and avoided a lot of wasted silage, saving the farm money.”

“On another farm by changing to ProMyr™ they have found that the silage is far more stable, does not heat up and stays cold, so again has considerably reduced wastage. The important thing is that ProMyr™ ensures forage stability and gives you 100% consistency.”

The other ProMyr™ product being introduced is an acid derived silage additive that uses a blend of propionic acid and a saltbased formic acid. This decreases pH levels in the silage, and creates an optimum environment for the creation of consistent, high quality silage with high sugar content and low ammonia levels. The product is also particularly good at preserving Dry Matter and the easily digested nutrients in the silage.

By including propionic acid, this prevents

heating once the clamp has been opened and after the silage has been fed out.

Both ProMyr™ products are far safer to handle compared to pure acids and require no ADR for transport. Application rates as low as just 3.0 litres/tonne ensure maximum productivity and minimal downtime spent having to refill.

Further information on the product range can be found at www.perstorp.com/uk-forage.

Hi-Spec compact the workload with new push-off trailer At Grassland UK, Hi-Spec Engineering will be launching a completely new addition to their range – the Kompactor dual purpose ‘push-off’ and compacting trailer, which will be available in four sizes. i-Spec Engineering are best known as designers and manufacturers of high capacity paddle or auger type diet feeders, vacuum tankers and muck spreaders and have brought many innovative products and features to the market.

The addition of the new Kompactor trailer follows in HiSpec’s tradition of focussing on the design and manufacture of innovative new products that offer customers high quality and increased productivity.

Initially the Kompactor will be available in four sizes – 18ft, 20ft,

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40 | Farming Monthly | May 2015

22ft and 24ft. A demount version is also available, which will provide users, such as contractors, increased value and versatility by being able to swap the trailer body with a Hi-Spec vacuum tanker body.

Central to the Kompactor is the hydraulically operated headboard which is powered by a three-stage hydraulic ram. For compacting, with the heavy duty tailgate shut, the headboard can be used to compact material such as grass or maize silage, so increasing the load carried by up to 80 percent compared to a conventional trailer. However, due to its size the Kompactor trailer is also ideally suited for use as a conventional trailer for

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| Grassland

Farmers advised to drive red diesel savings into grass care Strong message from Barenbrug to farmers attending Grassland UK 2015 Grassland UK 2015, Bath & West Showground, 7 May 2015. Visit Barenbrug at Stand 66 arenbrug UK, a leading provider of agricultural grass and forage seed mixtures, is heading to Grassland UK 2015 in May with a strong message for livestock farmers. With the price of red diesel hovering around 50p/litre, compared to 67p/litre in April 2014, Barenbrug is encouraging farmers to plough any fuel savings into grassland renovation to improve productivity per acre.

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According to Barenbrug, the best time to reseed is when the ground is moist and warm. The soil temperature needs to be over 8°C, which is typically between April and September Across the UK, farmers using Barenbrug grass seed have been

transporting bulky materials, such as woodchip or grain.

To empty the Kompactor, having raised the tailgate, the headboard is then fully extended and, depending on the load, has the capacity to completely empty the trailer in as little as 30 seconds. Because the load is pushed off and so avoids the need to tip the trailer body, the Kompactor is ideal for use in areas where conventional tipping trailers cannot access.

Allied to this, a key highlight is that by using a push-off mechanism and due to it having a low centre of gravity, all the inherent risks posed by using a tipping trailer are diminished or even avoided, such as striking overhead power lines or trailer instability when tipping on soft and uneven ground.

The Kompactor is lighter in

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reporting that 2014 was a good year for hay and silage production.

With plentiful supplies of forage to hand plus red diesel available at a continuing low cost, Barenbrug believes there is no better time for farmers to tackle unproductive fields and consider a full reseed.

James Ingles, Head of Agriculture said: “When fuel costs drop, grass work becomes cheaper than ever. Livestock farmers across the UK would be wise to take advantage of this.

Using any money saved on red diesel to make some simple investments in grassland this spring could pay real dividends later in the year. In 2014 we made lots of extra hay and silage, which is great. But now is not the time for complacency. An early or hard winter could still leave us scrapping around for fodder later in the year. Our message is clear.

While red diesel prices remain low, farmers should plough on, identifying poorly performing

fields, soil sample and reseed to ensure a plentiful supply of grass throughout this year and beyond.”

According to Barenbrug, the best time to reseed is when the ground is moist and warm. The soil temperature needs to be over 8°C, which is typically between April and September. Along with good fertility and some moisture this gives seeds the best possible conditions to germinate. Rolling

the ground after sowing helps seed-soil contact to promote germination too. Reseeding like this allows the plant to develop a good root structure that is ready to spread and grow the following spring, so quickly increasing grass cover.

Visit Barenbrug at Grassland UK at Stand 66 or go to: www.barenbrug.co.uk/enterprise for more advice and information.

weight compared to a conventional trailer, as its design engineers out traditionally required elements such as lifting rams and the necessary bracing.

This results in a lighter trailer which is capable of carrying increased loads and which will help reduce compaction.

The Kompactor chassis incorporates a dampened drawbar, through which all the hydraulic and electric lines are routed and air-brakes are fitted as standard on all models.

Options include a rear-steering axle and the availability of a unique hydraulically operated sliding bogie axle. This allows the axle to be moved by up to 600mm, by moving the axle backwards more weight will be placed on the tractor to increase grip.

More info at www.hispec.net

May 2015 | Farming Monthly | 41

| Renewables

Push Energy successfully energise six solar farms in East Anglia

Gosfield solar farm, Essex

Providing power for over 27,800 homes. tility solar specialist, Push Energy is delighted to announce the successful development of 142MW of Solar Farms since March 2013.

Push Energy’s in-house EPC, Push Build has completed the construction of six solar farms in East Anglia totalling 92MW. These sites are producing power for 27,800 homes in the area, saving over 55,600 tonnes of CO2 each year.

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Shortly, work will be starting on construction of the next 30MW of projects at various sites in East Anglia and the Midlands The six completed projects include three sites in Essex: Boxted, Gosfield and Langenhoe; one in North Hertfordshire at Wisbridge; and two in south Cambridgeshire at Bassingbourn and Croydon. These solar farms were connected to the electrical grid between 5th September 2014 and 20th March 2015.

Stuart Bradshaw, CEO at Push Energy said: “We’re delighted to have completed and energised all six of these sites. The solar farms are making tangible savings in CO2 emissions and are powering thousands of homes. We’d like to thank all our partners and the local community for their support on these projects.”

The sites were all completed and energised before the end of the financial year when the government stopped support for solar farms over 5MW under the Renewable Obligation (RO) scheme.

The projects are all built using ultra bankable tier one equipment including Yingli modules and SMA inverters. Push Build prides itself on quality and speed of delivery, confirmed by the Distribution Network Operators (DNOs) comments regarding the brick built Langenhoe Substation which was constructed in 28 days, “Langenhoe is the best example of a DNO substation that we have seen in a very long time.” Push Build will continue to provide Operations and Maintenance services at these sites.”

Shortly, work will be starting on construction of the next 30MW of projects at various sites in

Lark Energy Connects 91MWp of Solar Projects In the first Quarter of 2015, Lark Energy completed construction and connected solar farm projects with a total capacity of 91.6MWp.

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f the connected capacity, Lark Energy developed 60.6MWp across 6 sites and assisted in the development of the remaining 31MWp. Paul Adams, Managing

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Director of Lark Energy Ltd, responsible for the construction and operation of the solar farms, said “I am very proud that we were able to construct and connect these projects successfully in time for the very challenging end of March deadlines. It was a fantastic

East Anglia and the Midlands. There is a further 120MW pipeline currently under development in these regions. The company is also looking at developing further solar assets and is interested in working with new developers and landowners who currently have, or are seeking, planning consent to build solar farms. Given Push’s total vertical integration we will be able to deliver better returns to project developers.

The company is now one of the fastest growing businesses in East Anglia, with a strong background in farming and passion about conservation management. All the sites have been planned and constructed with dual use sheep grazing in mind and total respect of the Solar Trade Association’s (STA’s) ten commitments.

Solar farms are completely unlike traditional ‘power plants’ - they make practically no noise, have zero emissions, and after a short 10-12 week construction time they typically generate significantly less traffic than the more common arable farming of land.

team effort involving not only our own staff but also our many partners and suppliers. Our strong relationship with the DNOs in each area was also instrumental in getting us over the line. “ We are also very grateful to our long-term funding partners Armstrong Energy, who funded all but one of the sites.”

Robin Chamberlayne, Director of Armstrong Energy Ltd, said “We thank Lark and our development partners for delivering this excellent portfolio of assets. Armstrong’s strategy is to provide investors with excellent returns from financing the construction and operation of energy infrastructure, and we now expect these solar assets to deliver very positive return for our investors.”

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| Renewables

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May 2015 | Farming Monthly | 43

| Renewables

ESB and Coriolis Energy agree partnership to develop 400MW of onshore wind ESB is pleased to announce that it has entered into a development partnership with Coriolis Energy, a leading independent wind energy developer, to pursue further wind opportunities in England and Scotland. his agreement strengthens ESB’s commitment to the expansion of its onshore wind portfolio in the UK market. The partnership has a significant pipeline of development projects with a projected capacity of up to 400 MW across nine projects. This will potentially translate into an overall capital investment of approximately £600m. The generation output would be sufficient to power 225,000 homes with the first project planned to be operational by 2019.

The majority of projects within the portfolio are located in Scotland but opportunities for new windfarm developments will be pursued

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throughout the UK. “ESB’s partnership with Coriolis Energy confirms the company’s continuing commitment to renewable electricity generation and further reducing the carbon mix in our portfolio.”

“ESB is delighted to be making this agreement as the Coriolis Energy team have significant experience in wind energy projects that will complement ESB’s existing expertise and experience of developing and operating projects in UK and Irish markets. This partnership gives us an opportunity to increase our presence and capability in onshore wind in the UK through high quality projects,” Mr. O’Doherty added.

David Murray, Managing Director, Coriolis Energy said: “This new partnership with ESB underlines Coriolis Energy’s position as one of the UK’s leading independent onshore wind developers.”

“ESB’s scale, capabilities and desire to build a substantial onshore wind portfolio in the UK make them an ideal long term partner, both for us and our project landowners. We look forward to successfully completing the development of our existing project pipeline with them and using this as a platform for progressing further opportunities as the market continues to develop.”

Onshore wind industry contributes over £7 billion of economic benefit in Scotland Scotland gains over £7 billion of economic benefit from its local onshore wind industry, according to new figures released by RenewableUK. Of that, benefits to the value of £249 million go directly into the local community as a result of installed onshore wind capacity in the area cotland is the leading country for onshore wind within the UK with just over 4,918 megawatts of onshore wind installed. This capacity can power over 2.6 million homes. It will also lead to over £7 billion worth of economic benefit to the country over the lifetime of its wind energy projects. This represents environmental benefits of 4.7 million tonnes of CO2 reduced per year due to onshore wind installed in Scotland alone.

The three largest areas for onshore wind in Scotland are the Highlands with 824MW installed, South Lanarkshire with 632MW installed, and the Scottish Borders with 564.59MW installed.

There are a number of firms active in the area ranging from independent onshore developers to component manufacturers and companies providing steels for wind turbines, including RES, SSE, ScottishPower Renewables, Natural Power and RJ McLeon.

The figures form part of a report, undertaken

by BiGGAR Economics for RenewableUK, which shows that the economic benefits of developing onshore wind are strongly felt across the UK, with the onshore wind industry generating a total £906 million in gross value added (GVA) revenue to the UK economy in 2014 alone. Since the beginning of 2012, GVA has risen by £358 million (up 65%) – revealing the increasing contribution that the onshore wind industry and its supply chain makes to the UK economy.

The largest percentage of local spend comes at the operations and maintenance

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stage with 42% of the value of contracts (compared to 29% in 2011) being spent in the local area. On a wider level, almost half of the total spend is retained in the region in which a wind farm is located (48%), with this highest at the development stage (59%) and operation and maintenance (58%).

For businesses, investors and other regional stakeholders looking to find out more about the economic impact onshore wind has in their area, RenewableUK has created factsheets outlining the findings for each region: http://www.renewableuk.com/en/publications/in dex.cfm.

RenewableUK’s Chief Executive, Maria McCaffery, said, “The British onshore wind energy industry is adding £906 million a year to the national economy, so the benefits to the UK are clear to see. This report also shows that onshore wind really does bring benefits to the UK – with £7 in every £10 spent on projects invested in the UK. Onshore wind powers local economies, bringing £199 million of investment into local areas where communities host wind farms, and creating jobs across the supply chain. The industry is helping to propel Britain to a brighter, cleaner future – onshore wind is already the lowest cost of all low carbon options, with potential to be the least cost form of electricity within the next five years.

Yet onshore wind farms are under threat from misguided Tory and UKIP policies aimed at stifling their development, despite being the rational economic choice and having consistently high levels of public support.”

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| Renewables

Sustainability Live delivers growth and announces major rebrand Sustainability Live incorporating NEMEX and Energy Recovery delivered a hugely successful 2015 event last week and announced big news for 2016. he news is that next year the exhibition will have a new name, part of a major rebrand of the whole energy and sustainability offering of the show organiser Faversham House. Extensive third-party research showed that the audience and supplier community wanted a single brand to integrate content across the company’s whole website, conferences and exhibition portfolio. So, Sustainability Live, NEMEX and Energy Recovery become edie2016 for next year. The research showed it was the obvious choice, because www.edie.net has been a trusted part of the workflow of 60,000+ energy, environment, facilities and sustainability professions for almost 20 years.

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Extensive third-party research showed that the audience and supplier community wanted a single brand to integrate content across the company’s whole website, conferences and exhibition portfolio The rebrand follows a successful 2015 show, which saw an increase in both visitor and exhibitor numbers, driven in part, by the introduction of major new show features. These included a strategy-focused conference, under the headline ‘From risk to resilience’, alongside the event’s best CPD-accredited, practical seminar programme to date. The conference featured talks and panel debates from sustainability experts representing the UK’s most recognised brands, including Tobias Larsson, head of resilience, DHL, Charlotta Lyon, VP corporate affairs Western Europe, Carlsberg Breweries and Gio Patellaro, head of energy supply and risk, Marks & Spencer, and many more.

Paul Crewe, Sainsbury’s head of sustainability, energy and engineering, took part in the conference session ‘Energy – the bottom line: use less, make your own, buy smarter’ and the Energy Recovery Theatre session ‘Fuelling CSR: creating brand value by closing the loop’. He said: “It’s always enjoyable to come to Sustainability Live. The debate

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and discussions in the two sessions I was able to speak at have been excellent. I was very enthused to see so many people in the conference who are here to listen and be engaged and who plan to do something to help their own organisations when they leave the event.”

Other new show features unveiled this year included four Topic Trails – ESOS, energyefficient buildings, energy generation and smarter systems – helping connect visitors with the most relevant exhibitors, products and technologies in the most timeefficient way.

Also new was the edie Innovation Zone, supported by the Knowledge Transfer Network, which highlighted the latest emerging technologies in trial stages of development.

The technologies – which ranged from a tool that captures the energy from waste steam to mass-market rainwater harvesters – were selected by an independent steering committee and were showcased in a dedicated area of the exhibition.

Adrian Haworth, marketing director of Recycling Technologies, showcased one of the selected emerging technologies – Warwick FBR, a solution for the mixed plastic waste crisis, by transforming plastic into an energy-rich hydrocarbon commodity called Plaxx.

He commented: “Our main purpose for being here at Sustainability Live has been to generate some awareness about our new technology that turns plastic waste into oil. We’ve had a steady flow of people from all sectors at our stand – potential clients, partners and investors. It’s been very good indeed.”

“We’ve met one person in particular who is moving from the renewables industry, but has a lot of money to invest in new innovations, and was interested in what we’re doing. We had a very good conversation here at the show!”

And, of course, this year’s exhibition featured a huge range of technology launches and product demonstrations, with new kit of show from Schneider Electric, Bowers Electricals, MyOxygen, Danlers, Cub (UK) and C3 Resources among others.

Gary Sweeney, sales engineer

Steve Locke (left) and Andy Gadsby of I C Electrical, showcasing the company's recently purchased 55” digital signage display at the recent Sustainability Live show, NEC, Birmingham

for exhibitor Schneider Electric said: “The show has been absolutely wonderful, we have been exhibiting our automated metering and monitoring offer. We are close to some of the energy theatres, which have been very interesting with lots of good questions and answers. I have been attending exhibitions for 20 years and my general feeling for the show is this has to be in the top two, if not the number one show I have ever

been to.”

Angela Himus, director for the water and sustainability portfolio at Faversham House said: “We are delighted with the reaction to the new edie brand and with the great reception to the many new features at this year’s show. edie2016 will build on this and explore new topics which are core to our audience. The event will return next year with a stronger focus on innovation, plus a tighter format over two days.”

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| Renewables

UK AD & Biogas 2015: Providing crucial advice and showcasing the most recent developments in AD There has been a substantial expansion of on-farm anaerobic digestion (AD), with the number of agricultural plants having doubled to 139 in the last year alone. That’s progress, but the NFU estimates that there could be as many as 1,000 on-farm AD plants in the UK by 2020. s AD continues to develop it is offering farmers an ever more effective waste management option (e.g. for manures and slurries), on-site heat and electricity savings and nutrient-rich digestate – thus increasing farm outputs from the same area of land whilst stabilising business revenue and significantly reducing their carbon footprint.

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In the wake of the general election, the trade show will assess the impact of the next government on future renewable energy generation and resource management This year’s UK AD & Biogas 2015 trade show -

http://adbioresources.org/uk-adbiogas-2015 - will advise farmers on the challenges and priorities involved in operating an AD plant through tailored sessions on various topics; including finance, business plans, different technologies, training and case studies. In addition, our experienced, independent experts from our free Farmers’ Consultancy service will be onhand to offer one-to-one advice.

The trade show, which we will be hosting at the NEC in Birmingham on 1-2 July, will also showcase the latest technology and services from the agricultural sector to around 3,000 visitors.

Smaller-scale AD technology is developing all the time, and exhibitors will be on hand to explain how their technology fits to a range of different farms. Some farmers are also exploring different mixes of feedstocks, either by growing additional material to digest or importing waste from

other sources such as neighbouring farms. Every situation will be different, so it is important to look at what will be best for your farm – and that means considering not just how much waste or other feedstock is likely to be available, but also what opportunities exist to use the gas, electricity and heat you will generate, and how you will use the digestate.

In the wake of the general election, the trade show will assess the impact of the next government on future renewable energy generation and resource management. As part of that, UK AD & Biogas 2015 will also consider the opportunities provided by the shift away from centralised electricity generation towards community based energy – local sources fuelling transport, housing and businesses.

Whatever happens politically, however, the agricultural sector will come under ever demanding

pressure to increase outputs while reducing its carbon footprint and in that context AD has a central role to play in supporting climatesmart farming and food production.

Whether investigating the viability of an on-farm plant or looking to optimise your existing technology, UK AD & Biogas 2015 will offer crucial advice and showcase recent advances in AD.

WELTEC BIOPOWER at All-Energy 2015 UK sales team will be strengthened by another expert. he biogas plant manufacturer WELTEC BIOPOWER (UK) Ltd. based at Stoneleigh (Warwickshire) uses the AllEnergy from May, 6th to 7th at Glasgow, Scotland as a platform to showcase its wide range of AD technologies.

WELTEC has built more than 300 plants worldwide, of which eleven are in the UK and has a high level of experience in plant engineering. The portfolio ranges from compact modular on-farm projects to large individual solutions in the waste sector, with some plants utilising biomethane upgrading technology.

Accordingly, the company from Stoneleigh, Warwickshire, presents its extensive know-how at the UK’s largest renewable energy event. An experienced team of engineers and sales staff will be on hand so our visitors can obtain comprehensive

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information on the range of services available.

To meet the increasing demand for the technology ‘Made by WELTEC BIOPOWER’, the plant manufacturer has expanded its UK team with the addition of Colin Steel. Colin has been involved in the AD market in the UK and Ireland since 2008 and has been working on a number of projects ranging from on-farm to large scale commercial food-waste plants.

Colin is looking forward to the new challenge and said: “WELTEC has made me 100% clear of their commitment to the UK and Irish markets and I am really happy that I’ve joined the team and can contribute to strengthen the position. Having a strong quality control ethos through production to delivery and installation WELTEC has a unique offering that suits UK and Irish customers perfectly”.

Visit WELTEC BIOPOWER at the All-Energy on booth L 60.

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| Machinery

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| Animal Health

Manage parasite challenge in youngstock, says NADIS & Merial A warmer than average spring is likely to lead to the early hatching of Nematodirus eggs on contaminated pastures. heep farmers with lambs born in February and early March across England, Wales, South and East Scotland are being urged to take action now to tackle the potential threat of nematodirosis, according to the NADIS Parasite Forecast for May, sponsored by Merial Animal Health.

Sioned Timothy, Veterinary Adviser for Merial Animal Health, says: “The warm weather during April has promoted the hatching of overwintered Nematodirus eggs on pasture.

This will be problematic for livestock farmers if this year’s lambs have been turned out onto pastures grazed by lambs last year. Local conditions will affect hatching, so it’s vital that farmers regularly check the SCOPS or NADIS websites for current Nematodirus warnings and consult their vet for farm-specific advice.”

Group 1 ‘white drenches’ are recommended for the treatment of nematodirosis. However, this class of wormers may show limited efficacy against other worm species. Faecal egg counts (FECs) should be performed around 10 days after treatment to monitor efficacy and to rule out the involvement of other worm species, particularly if lambs are persistently scouring.

Coccidiosis is also a potential cause of scouring in young lambs and farmers should consult their vet for advice on managing this disease.

Parasitic gastroenteritis caused by other worm species, such as Teledorsagia spp, will come to pose a threat as the season progresses. Monitoring of lamb FECs,

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particularly if animals show signs of scouring, should guide the need for drenching. Whilst it is unlikely that treatment will be required until lambs are around four months-old, any sign of parasitic disease should be promptly investigated.

Planning in advance of the risk period for blowfly strike will help farmers limit the impact on flocks. Managing worm burdens to prevent parasitic gastroenteritis (PGE) is a key component of this, as dirty lambs will be at increased risk of fly strike. Topical preparations to prevent fly strike should be applied to sheep before the risk period, which is usually from mid-May onwards.

Sheep on farms with a known fluke risk that have not been treated in the late winter or spring should be treated now with a product that is effective against mature stages of the parasite. This will minimise pasture contamination and the challenge that animals

face later in the year.

“Now is not the time to use triclabendazole, as we are targeting the adult stage of the parasite,” says Ms Timothy. “Use an alternative product such as those containing nitroxynil (Trodax) or closantel, to avoid unnecessarily selecting for resistance.”

Beef and dairy farmers also need to be alert for signs of parasitic gastroenteritis in youngstock this spring. Unless they are on safe grazing, young calves in their first full grazing season will require treatment to control gutworm (Ostertagia ostertagi) and prevent the resulting losses in productivity from slower growth rates. Strategic treatment of young, susceptible cattle early in the grazing season will prevent them from establishing heavy worm burdens and minimise the build-up of larvae on the pasture. This will reduce the risk of outbreaks of clinical disease later in the year.

BVA welcomes extension of new bovine TB testing contracts The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) has confirmed that while veterinary practices have signed the new TB contracts in large numbers across four of the five English regions, the deadline for vets in Devon and Cornwall has been extended to 14th May as take up there has been lower. n a letter to the British Veterinary Association (BVA) and British Cattle Veterinary Association (BCVA), Simon Hall, Veterinary Director at APHA, stated that “large numbers of practices have already signed subcontracts in four of the five regions…Across England as a whole, almost 200 practices have already signed subcontracts, with others expected do so very soon.”

APHA awarded TB testing contracts to five Delivery Partners for England in February and the Delivery Partners issued contracts to potential subcontractors (veterinary practices) earlier this month. The deadline for signing contracts was 24 April, with a start date of 1 May.

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BVA is continuing to provide support for members who have requested legal advice on a number of specific queries and concerns in relation to the draft contracts.

Commenting, BVA President, John Blackwell, said: “The large numbers of veterinary practices signing up to the new contracts for TB testing across four of the five English regions demonstrates that the veterinary profession has prioritised delivery of TB testing for the public good, and will ensure that the fight against TB will continue without delay.

“While issues with the draft contracts in Devon and Cornwall, coupled with a very tight deadline, have resulted in a smaller number of sub-contractors signing up there, the extension to the 14th May is welcome and will give

veterinary practices more time to seek further clarification and legal advice if necessary.”

“Across England as a whole, almost 200 practices have already signed subcontracts, with others expected do so very soon” “The control of TB is most effectively delivered through nurturing strong collaboration and working relationships within the profession. The strong engagement of the veterinary profession with the new TB testing arrangements shows yet again that veterinary surgeons put their professional duties first.”

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| Arable

Scientists launch Dundee Medal Lecture series in plant root research A group of researchers from the James Hutton Institute in Dundee held the first of a ten-year series of lectures at the cutting edge of science below our feet, to coincide with 2015 as the International Year of Soils. he lecture series is a legacy from the highly successful conference by the International Society for Root Research, that drew 340 scientists from 38 countries to Dundee in 2012.

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“We at the James Hutton Institute are fortunate to have a world class group of scientists working on plant roots” The inaugural Medal Lecture was held in the Dalhousie Building of the University of Dundee, with Professor Jonathan Lynch of Penn State University, USA, on the topic of “Roots of the second green

revolution”.

The meeting was additionally supported by the Scottish Food Security Alliance, a recent initiative between the James Hutton Institute and the universities of Dundee and Aberdeen.

Professor Jonathan Lynch said: “Sustaining 10 billion people in a degrading environment is a major challenge of the 21st century. We need to develop agricultural systems that are more resilient and require fewer inputs.

"We are developing ways to select crops with improved root systems that will have better, more stable yields in soils subject to drought and nutrient deficiencies."

Dr Glyn Bengough, from the James Hutton Institute and the University of Dundee, commented: “We are delighted that Professor

Lynch has returned to Dundee to strengthen collaborative research links and launch this exciting, decade-long series of lectures on root research. Scientists in Dundee are performing internationally leading research in this area, in the biological, physical and engineering sciences.”

Professor Iain Gordon, Chief Executive of the James Hutton Institute, commented: “Crops are the linchpin for supporting the future food production that is urgently required to meet the

needs of a growing human population. Roots garner the nutrients and water crops need to meet their production potential.

“We at the James Hutton Institute are fortunate to have a world class group of scientists working on plant roots. We look forward to working with global research leaders, such as Professor Lynch, to provide the underpinning research needed to meet the challenges facing the world.”

Slug control is achievable with the better pellets Potato growers pondering their slug control options this season following the withdrawal of methiocarb should not be disheartened, says a respected independent agronomist. or the past few seasons potato agronomist Neil Pratt of Techniculture has been utilising several different types of pellet to achieve effective control while observing all relevant environmental restrictions.

For many potato growers methiocarb was regarded as the pellet most suited to slug control, but in practice growers often used several different types depending on the situation.

“Over the past few years we have favoured TDS as our choice of metaldehyde pellet because it features the same attributes found in methiocarb-based pellets. It means there is no need to revise application timings, but there will be instances where we have to respect a watercourse and in such circumstances I advise switching to ferric phosphate-based pellets,” says Neil Pratt.

His standard course of action is to apply 5kg/ha of TDS, a metaldehyde pellet, to provide 30 baiting points/sq M. “Research has shown that there is a trade-off between baiting points and pellet size with 30

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pellets/sq M found to be about the optimum for a range of crops and conditions.”

To those pondering which pellet will offer the level of performance they desire, Mr Pratt offers some simple advice.

“Growers need to look at what they are buying. There is notable differences between pellets and it’s important to match pellet choice to situation. Durability and ballistic performance are the principal considerations, these attributes determine how consistently the pellet spreads and how long it persists in the field.

“The pellet also needs to be highly palatable otherwise the pest can become bait shy. In practice this means using a pellet that is produced using durum wheat.

Fortunately, this also supports our needs for durable pellets as the flour is often finer and leads to a pellet with a tighter surface texture which means they can withstand weather pressure for longer.”

Beyond pellet choice, good control is largely about good field management. Application timing is important and when there is the opportunity to control slugs in stubbles in the late summer early autumn he advises growers exploit

it. Unfortunately, this is not always possible which raises the importance of good spring control.

Application across the ridges presents a further challenge and raises the importance of good ballistics if a good spread is to be achieved.

“Ensuring the first application is on before canopy complete is fundamental to achieving good control at this time. Once the canopy meets between the rows it is difficult to reach soil below and this is the last opportunity to target the slugs before tuber initiation. If you miss this opportunity, then control becomes significantly harder to achieve and is one reason why I treat in the autumn whenever possible,” he says.

Although some varieties are known to be more vulnerable to slug attack – Maris Piper, Marfona and Saxon are examples – wherever oilseed rape features in the rotation slugs will be an issue meaning there is rarely an opportunity to save on pellets.

Similarly, Mr Pratt is wary of relying on cultivations alone to control populations suggesting it is “not a tactic that can be relied on to achieve a meaningful level of control”.

While early season presents the best opportunity to tackle slugs, there are instances where a followup application is required, but Mr Pratt says it should not be considered routine, especially if lifting early for seed or salad purposes.

“The need for a follow up application later in the season is largely determined by intended lifting date and the success of earlier applications.

“There is notable differences between pellets and it’s important to match pellet choice to situation” “One pass is often enough, especially if lifting in August, but where lifting is delayed until late September or into October, it is prudent to first carry out some test digs once the soil surface becomes visible to establish pressure.

“If ridges have become cracked it can also make access easy for slugs and so where this occurs it is often worthwhile making a second application,” he says.

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| Fuels

Agricultural waste could be used as biofuel Straw-powered cars could be a thing of the future thanks to new research from the University of East Anglia. new study pinpoints five strains of yeast capable of turning agricultural byproducts, such as straw, sawdust and corncobs, into bioethanol - a well-known alcoholbased biofuel.

It is estimated that more than 400 billion litres of bioethanol could be produced each year from crop wastage.

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“Breaking down agricultural waste has previously been difficult because many strains of yeast necessary for fermentation are inhibited by compounds in the straw.

The research team say that their findings could help to create biofuel which is more environmentally friendly and ethically sound than other sources because it would make use of waste products.

Processes to generate bioethanol from straw and other by-products are currently complex and inefficient.

This is because high temperatures and acid conditions are necessary in the glucoserelease process. But this treatment process causes the waste to breakdown into compounds which are toxic to yeast (furfural and hydroxymethylfurfural) – making fermentation difficult.

One way to avoid these problems is to use genetically modified yeasts, but this new research has found five strains of naturally occurring yeasts which could be used successfully in the fermentation process.

Lead researcher Dr Tom Clarke, from UEA’s School of Biological

Sciences, said: “Dwindling oil reserves and the need to develop motor fuels with a smaller carbon footprint has led to the explosion of research into sustainable fuels.

“Bioethanol is a very attractive biofuel to the automotive industry as it mixes well with petrol and can be used in lower concentration blends in vehicles with no modifications. In Brazil, vehicles which run purely on bioethanol have been on the roads since 1979.

“Breaking down agricultural waste has previously been difficult because many strains of yeast necessary for fermentation are inhibited by compounds in the straw. Their toxic effects lead to reduced ethanol production.”

The research team investigated more than 70 strains of yeast to find the most tolerant. They found five strains which were resistant to the toxic compound furfural, and which produced the highest ethanol yield.

Of the five furfural tolerant strains S. cerevisiae NCYC 3451 displayed the greatest furfural resistance. The genomic lineage of this strain links it to yeast used in the production of the Japanese rice wine Sake.

“These strains represent good candidates for further research, development and use in bioethanol production,” added Dr Clarke.

The research was carried out in collaboration with the Institute of Food Research (IFR) and the National Collection of Yeast Cultures, which is based at the IFR. ‘Identification of furfural resistant strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Saccharomyces paradoxus from a collection of environmental and industrial isolates’ is published in the journal Biotechnology for Biofuels.

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| Fuels

Making fuel storage safe and secure Fuel is still an expensive commodity for farmers, despite the modest price decrease a while ago, so security is important. t has been reported that agritheft is on the increase and estimated to be 6% up on the previous year. Fuel theft is believed to be the third highest theft occurrence. It is accepted that if thieves are really determined, no tank is invulnerable. However, surveys and rural crime analysis has shown that physical security measures (alarms, locks, etc.) do act as a deterrent. If visible security measures are to be seen, thieves know accessing fuel or oil will be a more difficult process, taking longer and the chance of them moving to easier pickings increases.

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A simple alarm lock (costs less than £30 plus VAT) can be threaded through filler caps and inspection ports and, if tampered with, lets off a 100 db alarm!

So what can be done to protect valuable heating oil and diesel? Here are some observations and suggestions: • If you have not already done so (to comply with legislation), replace any diesel tanks on raised piers that dispense by a gravity feed hose. These are the most vulnerable and are the thieves’ favourite target! All they need to do is pick up the nozzle and dispense. If the gate

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valve is locked, it is so easy to break it off and then the whole tank contents are lost, much of it to ground causing pollution!

• Bunded tanks are compliant but also, being a tank within a tank, offer greater resistance to theft. Do ensure that they are top fill – top takeoff though. Having to pump out contents with an electric pump (which can be isolated when not in use!) is the best option.

• Many modern dispensing tanks are often fitted with lockable access doors, filler caps and inspection ports and electronic contents gauges. If yours isn’t, all these items are available for retro-fitting.

• An ultrasonic remote reading contents gauge (such as one of the Apollo range), will tell you of any sudden large loss of fuel. They cost very little (from less than £47 plus VAT from Bundedtanks.com) and can read up to 200 metres away from your fuel or oil tank. This enables you to keep an eye on your tank’s contents from the comfort of your home or office.

• A simple alarm lock (costs less than £30 plus VAT) can be threaded through filler caps and inspection ports and, if tampered with, lets off a 100 db alarm!

• If greater security is necessary, consider installing a steel tank, especially for diesel dispensing. These vandal-resistant tanks are available in a wide range of standard sizes but Bundedtanks.com also offers bespoke builds.

Popular right now are twin compartment tanks

(for red and white diesel), accessed from behind heavy duty doors with double locking.

Large tanks (10,000 litres and over) are usually cheaper than plastic by the way!

• Consider installing a fuel management system to keep an eye on fuel usage and prevent unauthorised dispensing. Each trusted user is issued with a simple magnetic key.

Two final points to consider: 1 Thieves often target after a fuel delivery, so be extra vigilant. It has been reported that criminals have planned fuel theft routes by following delivery tankers!

2 Again, a well reported fact: If you have suffered a fuel / oil theft, thieves can often return to steal the replacement oil or fuel!

For information on fuel, oil and water tanks (static or portable) and tank security, please visit: www.bundedtanks.com, e-mail: info@bundedtanks.com or call +44 845 600 3572.

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| Tyres

John Deere Michelin European Drivers Challenge John Deere and Michelin showcase how best practice and understanding of technology improve tractor performance. n April 30th 2015, seven tractor operators from seven European countries competed to win the European Drivers Challenge title.

Each represented their home country (France, Germany, Ireland, Netherlands, Portugal, Spain and UK [JK1] ) the seven finalists were invited for a once-in-alifetime two-day trip to the “Michelin Technical Innovation Centre Test Circuit” in Ladoux, France. Located close to Michelin’s headquarters, it’s one of the world’s largest vehicle test tracks, made up of 19 tracks totaling more than 41 kilometres – and typically the exclusive preserve of Michelin research and development engineers testing future generations of tyres.

Each participant got his own John Deere 6215R AutoPowr tractor, pulling a heavy 20t Joskin two axle trailer. The tractors were

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equipped with MICHELIN MachXBib tyres, with trailers featuring MICHELIN CargoXBib High Flotation tyres.

Participants were challenged to select their own strategy of tractor settings and tyre inflation pressures.

Unlike traditional motor racing, it’s not the tractor operator with the fastest lap who will make it onto the podium. The winner was the contestant with the best overall strategy to achieve a fast transport time, combined with the lowest possible fuel consumption and the least soil compaction in the field. Furthermore, they had to complete a handling course along the way too, and ensure they succeed in all objectives without any failures.

The above range of tasks represents the typical daily challenges that today’s contractors constantly face. Time and money matter: that’s why it is essential that farmers and contractors use the latest technologies available in order to

win the battle of speed, fuel efficiency and soil protection.

Each participant got his own John Deere 6215R AutoPowr tractor, pulling a heavy 20t Joskin two axle trailer The European Drivers Challenge was organised jointly by John Deere and Michelin to demonstrate how the proper understanding of technology by users influences performance both on the road and in the field, even when using highly automated equipment. The event was designed to showcase the key role tyres play in managing difficult terrain with different levels of grip and traction, whilst protecting the soil from compaction and saving on fuel.

Visit www.michelin-agricultural-tyres.co.uk for details of the winner.

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Startin Tractors Limited Twycross CV9 3PW Telephone : 01827 880088 Website with photographs: www.startintractors.co.uk email: sales@startintractors.co.uk www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

May 2015 | Farming Monthly | 53

| Security

FUW Glamorgan members get update on rural crime prevention A recent Rural Watch demonstration and information event gave Farmers’ Union of Wales Glamorganshire members an insight into the latest developments in rural crime prevention. he demonstration was held at FUW Glamorganshire county executive officer Rachel Saunders’ farm at Blackland Farm, Bonvilston last Friday (April 23) and organised with

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the Neighbourhood Policing Team.

Farmers heard that the Vale of Glamorgan Police force is in the process of creating a rural crime strategy to target typical rural crime in the hope that a standard rural crime strategy can eventually be enforced across Wales.

The Vale of Glamorgan police force update FUW members on rural crime prevention

Wildlife Crime Officer PC Mark Goulding said the police recognising that there is a need to protect the rural economy from theft and crime in order to support and maintain a strong rural community - a sentiment long supported by the union.

“It was great for our members to be able to discuss some of the methods currently used to prevent rural crime for example with trial cameras which record activity during the day and night to capture what is happening in barns and fields,” said Mrs Saunders.

“We were particular pleased to hear that the police want to build on the simple methods of community messaging systems which in the Vale is Rural Watch and includes Gate Safe, e-mails and texts to inform members of the rural community about suspicious activities.

“The Gate Safe scheme was set up during the time when fly grazing was at its peak in the Vale and was a great way to engage with farmers and the rural community.

“The signs were handed to farmers who were victims of crime to display on their gates so that patrolling police would see the sign, recognise that the particular farm had been a recent victim of crime and spend more time patrolling that area,” added Mrs Saunders.

Farmers further discussed basic security systems that are inexpensive

54 | Farming Monthly | May 2015

and will help rural communities to protect their property from theft.

“It was great for our members to be able to discuss some of the methods currently used to prevent rural crime for example with trial cameras which record activity during the day and night to capture what is happening in barns and fields”

“All who attended found the demonstration very informative and left with a lot of information and ideas to protect their property as well as important contact details of the police officers in charge of rural crime in the Vale area,” added Mrs Saunders.

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May 2015 | Farming Monthly | 55

| ATV

56 | Farming Monthly | May 2015

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New Forest Garden Machinery 316-318 Salisbury Road Totton, Southampton Hampshire SO40 3ND Tel: 023 8087 1764 www.nfgmltd.co.uk

Jacksons Motorcycles Unit 11 Summerlands Trading Estate Kendal, Cumbria LA8 0FB 01539 560 926 www.jacksons-motorcycles.co.uk

Exeter Quads Exmouth Road Exeter Devon EX5 1AR Tel: 01392 877621 www.exeterquads.com

Quad Bikes R Us Waldon House Farm Waldon House Road Great Tottenham Essex CM9 8PN Tel: 01621 893 227 www.quadbikesrus.com

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Off Highway Plant Solutions Tel: 01305 858 623 Mob: 07899 848 569 www.sphere24.com

May 2015 | Farming Monthly | 57

| ATV

Can-Am Outlander 6x6 becomes more accessible BRP, the world leader in motorised recreational vehicles, is repositioning the price of its Can-Am Outlander 1000 6x6 XT All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) to provide greater value to the UK utility market. he MSRP of the Can -Am Outlander 1000 6x6 XT model, which joined the Outlander ATV range at the end of 2014, has been reduced by £ 1700. New MSRP is now: £ 15 799 (Incl VAT).

Tim Gys, regional commercial manager UK & Ireland BRP, says: “The Can-Am Outlander 6x6 is a versatile product and this price

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repositioning will allow more commercial users in the UK to access this vehicle and to experience it's power and diverse functionality.”

The six-wheel drive Can-Am Outlander 1000 6x6 XT is aimed at the farming and forestry sector. It is purpose-built for users who want an ATV that can handle any situation put in front of it, from dragging heavy cargo over narrow trails to riding on rough

terrain, and yet still enjoy the same comfortable ride expected from a Can-Am ATV. The Can-Am Outlander ATV platform features industry-leading performance with its reliable 82 hp Rotax 1000 V-Twin engine and the Double TTI rear suspension provides precision-engineered handling, comfort and control expected from the Outlander ATV range.

“The Can-Am Outlander 6x6 is a versatile product and this price repositioning will allow more commercial users in the UK to access this vehicle and to experience it's power and diverse functionality”

0% on Polaris ATV Polaris 0% finance extended for a limited period. olaris has extended the 0% finance offer on new Polaris Sportsman models and the Polaris ACE for a limited period.

The world leader and European No.1 in ATVs offers the widest choice of proven AllTerrain options and accessories.

Business users can arrange interest-free finance on new Polaris utility ATVs through Polaris finance partners Rural Finance. The scheme offers payments over 22 months at 0% up to a maximum 80% of the Recommended Retail Price and can include genuine Polaris accessories up to £1000.

Polaris recommends

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58 | Farming Monthly | May 2015

contacting your nearest Polaris dealer as soon as possible for full details and any special deals available.

There are new models of Polaris Sportsman ATVs introduced for 2015 with a whole range of new features.

The availability of the 0% finance is subject to status and terms and conditions.

Polaris Britain 0800 915 6720 www.polaris-britain.com

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| ATV

Polaris fits the bill for agronomist Agronomy specialists Agrii, the name stands for Agri Intelligence, is a leading provider of agronomy services, technology and strategic advice to farmers and landowners across the UK. he company helps farmers stay up to date with arable technology and agronomy- led solutions to improve yields, grow profitable crops and respond to ‘The Food Challenge.’

Agronomist Harry Abell, who looks after a wide range of crops across the East and West Midlands, recently took over a new, large arable contract from an outgoing agronomist who was using a quad bike to get around the land.

Seeing the need to do the same, Harry set out to look at what

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was on the market that would fit the bill. With the suggestion from a colleague, who attended an ATV course where he tried a Polaris Sportsman quad, the path led Harry to the CLA Game Fair which he found a good eye opener on what’s available.

Finding his way to the Polaris stand he met Andrew Shepherd of Polaris dealers All-4 Ltd. who demonstrated a real understanding of the agricultural market and showed Harry around the Sportsman UTE. “It proved to be the ideal ATV for my needs,” Harry says, “I unload it from the trailer and go to where I need to quickly and safely

and waste no time walking from field to field or to another block of ground.

Time is a valuable asset and I use it to cross arable, grass fields, green lanes, steep banks and ditches, even fording brooks. It also saves on wear and tear of my 4x4 pickup. The descent control is particularly effective and the power steering makes it smoother and easier to operate especially on tracks. The UTE feels more secure as well, with its longer wheelbase and I like the Lock and Ride system where I can carry maps and the iPad securely without having to buy an extra storage box.”

Initially, Harry hadn’t considered Polaris but the more farmers he talked to, the greater the recommendations became.

The other points about the Sportsman UTE which finalised the deal with All-4 Ltd. were what comes as standard at a competitive price, including the power steering, 4 Wheel Descent Control, lights and mirrors.

“I can’t fault it,” Harry says, “at the price compared to others on the market it more than fits the bill.” Polaris Britain: 0800 915 6720 www.polaris-britain.com

May 2015 | Farming Monthly | 59

| Motors

Volvo XC90 V8 Twin Engine in a class of its own at 49G/KM CO2 The XC90 T8 Twin Engine has exceeded all expectations when it comes to the no compromise equation of power and low fuel consumption, coupled with world class low emissions – and all in a 7-seat luxury SUV. he improvement over the earlier announced figures were achieved thanks to the continuous innovation cycle at the Swedish company. The result of further tuning is a drop of 10 g/km from the initial prognosis, for up to 134.5mpg fuel economy, while also adding horsepower. This makes the XC90 T8 Twin Engine the clear leader in its segment, with an exceptional combination of low fuel consumption, emissions and pure power.

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The XC90 T8 Twin Engine will be available later this spring in Volvo showrooms

“We have been working hard to earn our competitive edge and to give our customers the ultimate combination of performance and low fuel consumption. Our Twin Engine technology has enabled us to build on our heritage of efficient powertrain development in a completely new way. Thanks to our new scalable product architecture, and our world class four-cylinder engines, we have a clear and leading position,” said Dr Peter Mertens, Senior Vice President Research & Development at Volvo Car Group.

No other SUV in this class can deliver 26 miles of pure electric range, 0-62mph in 5.6 seconds and provide combined power of 407

60 | Farming Monthly | May 2015

hp – all in a 7 seat configuration.

The XC90 T8 Twin Engine will be available later this spring in Volvo showrooms.

All figures are based on the NEDC driving

cycle for hybrids. * 320hp + 87 hp power and 400 + 240 Nm torque - combined 407hp and 640 Nm.

A driving mode for every need The XC90 T8 Twin Engine can go from 0 to 62mph in 5.6 seconds, delivering all the driving pleasure customers have come to expect from a Volvo SUV. But driving pleasure is only a fraction of what the XC90 T8 offers: the car has five different driving modes that deliver a range of performance and efficiencyenhancing characteristics. Using either a scroll wheel on the centre console or a touchscreen on the dashboard, drivers can choose from: Hybrid: This is the default mode, suitable for everyday use. Here, the vehicle will automatically alternate between drawing power from the 2-litre, 4-cylinder Drive-E engine and the electric motor to deliver the best overall fuel consumption.

Pure electric: In this mode, when the highvoltage battery is fully charged, it serves as the car’s sole energy source, powering the electric motor over the rear axle. The XC90 T8 has a range of up to 26 miles using just electricity, which covers the total distance many people drive in one day. And thanks to the regenerative braking system, this mode is

super-efficient in the stop-and-go traffic of city environments. If more power is needed, the Drive-E combustion engine starts up automatically.

Power mode: Here, drivers get the combined performance of the combustion engine and the electric motor. On start-up, the SUV takes advantage of the electric motor’s superior response and instant torque curve, while the combustion engine gets up to speed. This combination offers better torque at lower revs, equivalent to that of a large displacement engine like the V8.

AWD: This mode offers constant all-wheel drive on demand. The advantage of being able to select AWD manually is that the driver can use it when needed, or choose to save energy for later.

Save: If the battery is charged, this mode allows the driver to “freeze” the battery level and save it for later use with Pure Electric drive. On the other hand, if the battery is low, the driver can use the combustion engine to charge the battery to a certain level for later use with Pure Electric drive.

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County Motor Works Essex Tel: 01245 235000 www.motorparks.co.uk Lipscomb Jeep Maidstone Tel: 01622 238379 www.lipscomb.co.uk Unity Automotive Oxford Tel: 01865 376000 www.unityautomotive.co.uk Unity Automotive Leicester Tel: 01162 831052 www.unityautomotive.co.uk

T J Vickers Telford Tel: 01952 605301 www.tjvickers.co.uk Pentagon Barnsley South Yorkshire Tel: 01226 323050 www.pentagon-chrysler.co.uk D Salmon Cars Colchester Tel: 01206 715200 www.dsalmon.co.uk Lookers Jeep Cardiff Tel: 02921 480325 www.lookers.co.uk

MODEL SHOWN IS THE ALL-NE W JEEP RENEGADE 1.4 MULTIAIR II 140 HP LIMITED INCL. SPECIAL PASTEL PAINT AT £500. OFFICIAL FUEL CONSUMPTION FIGURES FOR JEEP RENEGADE R ANGE MPG (L /100KM): EX TR A URBAN 48.7 (5.8) – 70.6 (4.0), URBAN 32.1 (8.8) – 51.4 (5.5), COMBINED 40.9 (6.9) – 61.4 (4.6), CO2 EMISSIONS: 160 – 120 G/KM.

Fuel consumption and C O2 f igure s are obt ained for compar ati v e purpose s in accordance w ith EC direc ti v e s /regul ations and may not be repre sent ati v e of real-life dri v ing conditions. Fac tor s such as dri v ing s t y le, w eather and road conditions may al so hav e a signif ic ant e f fec t on f uel consumption. Promotion av ail able on the A ll-Ne w Jeep Renegade model s regis tered b y 30 th June 2015. Jeep L aunch C ontribution only av ail able in conjunc tion w ith Jeep Horizon PCP or Jeep Hire Purchase. W ith Jeep Horizon you hav e the option to re turn the v ehicle and not pay the f inal pay ment , subjec t to the v ehicle not hav ing exceeded an agreed annual mileage (a charge of 6p per mile for exceeding 10,0 0 0 mile s per annum in this example) and being in good condition. Finance subjec t to s t atus. regis tered tr ade| mar61 k o f FC A U S L L C. Guar antee swww.farmingmonthly.co.uk may be required. Terms and C onditions apply. At par ticipating Dealer s only. We w ork w ith a number of creditor s including Jeep Financial Ser v ice s. Jeep Financial Ser v ice sMay , PO BOX 42015 4 65, Slough|, SLFarming 1 0R W. Jeep® is a Monthly

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62 | Farming Monthly | May 2015

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May 2015 | Farming Monthly | 63

| Motors

6,000,000th Land Rover lights up Solihull Land Rover is celebrating the production of its landmark 6,000,000th vehicle by giving it a unique design feature. he completion of a Yulong White Range Rover LWB Vogue SE on 2 April saw Land Rover hit the manufacturing milestone and the 6,000,000th vehicle has been fitted with a bespoke puddle lamp graphic to signify its unique status.

The luxury SUV takes centre stage at the 2015 Shanghai Auto Show showcasing its oneoff motif, which replaces the standard Range Rover silhouette projected by the vehicle’s puddle lamps. The image is created by an inscribed lens within the door mirror-mounted downlight and displaying the Land Rover logo and landmark figure.

The illuminated graphic, which is the width of a grain of rice, is projected through a magnifying lens onto the ground every time the vehicle is unlocked in an image which is 80cm in diameter. This same graphic was projected on to the wall of the Solihull manufacturing facility to mark the moment when the 6,000,000th vehicle rolled off the production line.

Andy Goss, Director, Group Sales Operations, Jaguar Land Rover, said: “For 67 years Land Rover has been building the world's most capable all-purpose vehicles. Over this period, a range of ground-breaking innovations and technologies have blended great design, refinement and unmatched all-terrain capability.

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64 | Farming Monthly | May 2015

“It’s fitting that the 6,000,000th Land Rover to be produced is a Range Rover, since this year marks the 45th anniversary of the original Range Rover’s launch and even today, the vehicle remains peerless. With the growth of sales in China since the latest version of the Range Rover was introduced in 2012, it is entirely appropriate that this landmark vehicle is destined for a Chinese customer.”

The 6,000,000th Land Rover debuts on the Land Rover stand at the Shanghai Auto Show, and will subsequently feature in a number of celebration events being staged in China to mark Range Rover’s 45th anniversary.

Ultimately this special Range Rover will be sold in the region and its specially commissioned puddle lamps will serve as a permanent reminder of the significance of this unique model in Land Rover’s history.

Range Rover sits at the pinnacle of the Land Rover brand. The latest model was introduced in 2012 and matches class-leading axle articulation of 597mm, wading capability of 900mm and the ability to tow up to 3,500kg, with a range of state of-the-art petrol, diesel and Hybrid powertrains that successfully harness advanced technologies to deliver exceptional refinement, performance and efficiency.

In addition, the luxury SUV combines sophisticated exterior design and exquisite interior detailing with the exceptional luxury, comfort and fine attention to detail that are

established Range Rover hallmarks.

The 6,000,000th vehicle was built at Land Rover’s Solihull facility, where the company has been producing its world-famous SUVs since 1948. The factory has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, almost trebling production and doubling its workforce. Today Solihull is a global centre of excellence for aluminium and lightweight vehicle manufacturing. It boasts Europe's largest aluminum body shop, producing the biggest single aluminium pressing of any vehicle for the Range Rover – weighing only 7kg.

Of the 6,000,000 Land Rovers produced, more than 900,000 are Range Rover vehicles and the iconic luxury SUV is the first car to have been displayed at the world-famous Louvre museum in Paris, where it was cited as an ‘exemplary work of industrial design’.

The original Land Rover Series I was unveiled at the Amsterdam Motor Show on 30 April 1948, so this month marks the 67th anniversary of the brand. One-third of the 6,000,000 vehicles produced to date have been manufactured in the last eight years at Land Rover’s UK plants, in Solihull in the West Midlands and Halewood on Merseyside. The current model line-up includes Range Rover, Range Rover Sport, Range Rover Evoque, Discovery, Discovery Sport and Defender.

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| Motors

Burrells Motor Group South Yorkshire 01302 515 767

MTC Subaru Cambridgeshire 01733 822 943

Seward Subaru Hampshire 02392 809 577

www.burrellsmotorgroup-subaru.co.uk

www.mtc-subaru.co.uk

www.seward-subaru.co.uk

Cambridge Subaru Cambridgeshire 01223 633 706

Perkins Essex 01371 483 379

Unity Leicester Leicester 01162 149 060

www.cambridge-subaru.co.uk

www.perkins-subaru.co.uk

www.unityleicester-subaru.co.uk

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May 2015 | Farming Monthly | 65

| Motors

Audi primes the pumps with new synthetic water-based E-Diesel Pilot plant in Dresden, Germany, delivers first consignment of high quality Audi e-diesel using CO2 from biogas and ambient air. udi has taken another big step in the development of new, CO2-neutral fuels: A pilot plant in Dresden, Germany, has started production of the synthetic fuel Audi e-d iesel.

After a commissioning phase of just four months, the research facility in Dresden started producing its first batches of high-quality diesel fuel a few days ago. The energy technology corporation sunfire is Audi’s project partner and the plant operator. It operates according to the power-to-liquid (PtL) principle and uses green power to produce a liquid fuel. The only raw materials needed are water and carbon dioxide.

The CO2 used is currently supplied by a biogas facility. In addition, initially a portion of the CO2 needed is extracted from the ambient air by means of direct air capturing, a technology of Audi’s Zurich-based partner Climeworks.

Reiner Mangold, Head of Sustainable Product Development at Audi, sees Audi ediesel and Audi e-fuels in general as an important component that complements electric mobility: “In developing Audi e-diesel we are promoting another fuel based on CO2 that will allow long-distance mobility with

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virtually no impact on the climate. Using CO2 as a raw material represents an opportunity not just for the automotive industry in Germany, but also to transfer the principle to other sectors and countries.”

Production of Audi e-diesel involves various steps: First, water heated up to form steam is broken down into hydrogen and oxygen by means of high-temperature electrolysis. This process, involving a temperature in excess of 800 degrees Celsius, is more efficient than conventional techniques because of heat recovery, for example. Another special feature of high-temperature electrolysis is that it can be used dynamically, to stabilise the grid when production of green power peaks.

In two further steps, the hydrogen reacts with the CO2 in synthesis reactors, again under pressure and at high temperature. The reaction product is a liquid made from long-chain hydrocarbon compounds, known as blue crude. The efficiency of the overall process – from renewable power to liquid hydrocarbon – is very high at around 70 percent. Similarly to a fossil crude oil, blue crude can be refined to yield the end product Audi e-diesel. This synthetic fuel is free from sulphur and aromatic

hydrocarbons, and its high cetane number means it is readily ignitable. As lab tests conducted at Audi have shown, it is suitable for admixing with fossil diesel or, prospectively, for use as a fuel in its own right.

Construction work on the facility in DresdenReick kicked off in July 2013 and the plant was commissioned on November 14, 2014. The plant is set to produce over 3,000 litres of Audi e-diesel over the coming months. Audi is sunfire’s exclusive partner in the automotive sector.

Over and above the partnership with sunfire, Audi has been active in the development of CO2-neutral fuels – Audi e-fuels – since 2009.

The Audi e-gas plant in Werlte, Lower Saxony, already produces Audi e-gas (synthetic methane) in a comparable manner to power the Audi A3 Sportback g-tron*, which is available in countries in which a suitable fuelling infrastructure exists. Audi is also conducting joint research into the synthetic manufacture of Audi e-gasoline with Global Bioenergies, of France. In a further project, Audi has joined forces with the U.S. company Joule, which uses microorganisms to produce the synthetic fuels Audi e-diesel and Audi e-ethanol.

New Suzuki Vitara receives 5-star Euro NCAP overall safety The first compact SUV to attain five stars in new and more rigorous testing by Euro NCAP. he new Suzuki Vitara compact SUV, launched earlier this month, is rated one of Europe‘s safest cars according to independent crash testing results from Euro NCAP, receiving the maximum 5star rating. Vitara is also the first compact SUV to earn five stars in the more rigorous 2015 Euro NCAP testing programme which further reinforces the exemplary level of safety of the new model.

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Suzuki paid particular attention to child safety in accordance with latest European legislation Suzuki’s new Vitara has been awarded high scores in all four areas of assessment and also exceeds the minimum level required in all of these to attain the

five star rating.

The new Vitara’s passive and active safety systems are designed to intelligently anticipate and react to potentially dangerous situations with an excellent level of protection. One of its major safety features is Total Effective Control Technology which is a concept for occupant protecting impact absorption and low weight developed by Suzuki. Extensive use of high tensile steel and computer aided engineering technologies make the body light, highly crashworthy as well as fuel efficient.

Standard safety equipment includes seven airbags which includes a driver’s knee airbag as well as seat belt pre-tensioners and force limiters. Euro NCAP’s tests on the front seats and head restraints showed good protection against whiplash injury in the event of a rear end collision and a geometric assessment of the rear

66 | Farming Monthly | May 2015

seats also indicated good protection.

Suzuki paid particular attention to child safety in accordance with latest European legislation and pedestrian protection received the highest score amongst its competitors thanks to bonnet shape and new structures for the cowl top and wipers. The bumpers

also provide good impact absorption to lessen the degree of harm if the car comes into contact with a pedestrian.

Vitara is on sale in the UK from £13,999 for the SZ4 1.6-litre petrol model with two wheel drive and is available with ALLGRIP four wheel drive as an option.

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

DAVIES NARBERTH Pembrokeshire 01834 452 236 www.davies-isuzu.co.uk

LIFESTYLE EUROPE Kent 01892 629 140 www.lifestyleeurope-isuzu.co.uk

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

DUCKWORK ISUZU (BOSTON) Lincolnshire 01205 535 417 www.duckworths-isuzu.co.uk

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

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

DUCKWORK ISUZU (MARKET RASEN) Lincolnshire 01673 558 892 www.duckworths-isuzu.co.uk

RIVERSIDE EASTERN LTD North Yorkshire 01723 821 625 www.riversideeatern-isuzu.co.uk

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

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

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

DAVIES LLANBYDDER Carmarthenshire 01570 631 151 www.davies-isuzu.co.uk

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

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May 2015 | Farming Monthly | 67

| Motors

The Amarok Trendline.

A lot more style for a lot less.

Only ÂŁ269 a month* on Contract Hire.

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The Amarok Trendline comes with all the rugged practicality you’d expect from an Amarok.

It also comes with a degree of style and luxury you might not expect. The interior is cosseted in comfort-providing carpet and upholstery with an armrest on the centre console. Chrome and silver detail adds its own sophisticated touch.

As for the exterior, it’s no less impressive. The upper front grille displays a similar chrome detail. There are body-coloured door handles, body-coloured mirrors and extended wheel arches. With front fog lamps, the Amarok Trendline sits on 17-inch Aldo alloy wheels.

This offer is for business users only. For more information, why not call us today or drop by our showroom?

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| Motors

JCT600 Van Centre (Hull)

Greenhous Volkswagen Van Centre

Listers (Coventry) Van Centre

Saxon Way, Priory Park West, Hessle, Hull, East Yorkshire.

Telephone: 01482 908590.

Ennerdale Road, Harlescott, Shrewsbury, Shropshire.

Telephone: 01743 600868.

347-367 Bedworth Road, Longford, Coventry, West Midlands.

Telephone: 0247 798 9699.

Find us on your sat-nav using HU13 9PB.

Find us on your sat-nav using SY1 3LD.

Find us on your sat-nav using CV6 6BN.

www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/JCT600Hull

www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/greenhous

www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/listerscoventry

JCT600 Van Centre (York)

Greenhous Volkswagen Van Centre (Bilston)

Listers Van Centre (Worcestershire )

Centurion Park, Clifton Moor, York.

Telephone: 01904 848102.

Trinity Road, Bilston, Wolverhampton.

Telephone: 01902 471418.

Find us on your sat-nav using YO30 4WW.

Find us on your sat-nav using WV14 7EF.

Droitwich. Telephone: 01905 670999.

www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/JCT600York

www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/bilston

JCT600 Van Centre (Sheffield)

Alan Day Van Centre

Europa Close, Europa Link, Sheffield.

Telephone: 0114 404 0026.

Find us on your sat-nav using S9 1XS.

North Bank, Berry Hill Industrial Estate, Find us on your sat-nav using WR9 9AU. www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/listersworcestershire

Pinkham Way, North Circular Road, New Southgate, London.

Telephone: 0208 045 3493.

Find us on your sat-nav using N11 3UT. www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/alandaynewsouthgate

www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/jct600sheffield

DQQXP >QRQ PDLQWDLQHG@ &RQWUDFW +LUH DJUHHPHQW ș ɂS SOXV 9$7 H[FHVV PLOHDJH FKDUJHV DSSO\ 2ȔHU DYDLODEOH IRU YHKLFOHV RUGHUHG EHWZHHQ ɜVW $SULO DQG ȦɂWK -XQH ȫɂɜȨ IURP SDUWLFLSDWLQJ 9DQ D SUHYDLOLQJ UDWH )LQDQFH VXEMHFW WR VWDWXV $YDLODEOH WR ɜȲV DQG RYHU 6XEMHFW WR DYDLODELOLW\ )LQDQFH SURYLGHUV PD\ SD\ XV IRU LQWURGXFLQJ \RX WR WKHP :H FDQ LQWURGXFH \RX WR D OLPLWHG QXPEHU www.farmingmonthly.co.uk May 2015 | Farming Monthly | 69

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All-new Honda HR-V set to be among most efficient in class The all-new Honda HR-V will be one of the most efficient cars in its class and boast an unmatched combination of sought-after attributes when it arrives in showrooms across the UK this summer. s well as dynamic styling, classleading interior space and versatility, and advanced infotainment and safety technologies, the new HR-V will deliver fuel economy and emissions among the best in its class. It will be offered from launch with a choice of 1.6 litre iDTEC diesel and 1.5 litre i-VTEC petrol engines, both from Honda’s advanced Earth Dreams Technology series.

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Further details including pricing will be available closer to the new HR-V’s summer launch “The Honda HR-V created this fast growing market segment back in 1999 and for 2015 the all new HR-V will offer a class leading ownership proposition, refinement, sleek styling, a quality feel as well as being packed to the roof with safety and technology features.

We are confident that the HR-V will perform

Rexton W range boosted New range topping ELX joins SsangYong Rexton W line-up. he five-seat Rexton W ELX gets a number of significant enhancements over the EX model, including a luxurious new beige/grey leather interior - seats, door trims and matching carpets, a new multi-function leather covered steering wheel and updated

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70 | Farming Monthly | May 2015

favourably against its main competitors in this segment, such as the current market leading Nissan Qashqai.” Commented Leon Brannan, Head of Car, Honda (UK).

Combining the 1.6 litre i-DTEC diesel paired with a newly-engineered six-speed manual transmission, Honda’s new subcompact SUV will return fuel economy figures from 71mpg, with CO2 emissions starting from just 104 g/km. HR-V customers won’t find performance compromised by the car‘s frugality, however, with 118bhp powering the new HR-V from 062mph in 10.1 seconds.

Petrol buyers can select a 130 PS 1.5 litre iVTEC engine, achieving combined fuel economy of 54.2mpg and CO2 emissions from 120 g/km when they opt for the CVT automatic transmission. When married with the standard six-speed manual, the new petrol-powered HRV delivers fuel economy of 50mpg and CO2 emissions at a highly competitive 130 g/km.

Sprightly performance is assured with 62mph reached from standstill in just 10.3 seconds with the manual and 10.9 seconds when equipped with the optional CVT.

The new HR-V‘s efficient performance credentials are aided by its design and classleading aerodynamics, with underbody panels optimising airflow. In profile, the HR-V portrays a characterful poise, with the distinctive, boldly sculpted lines of a coupé merged with the tough, solid stance of a robust SUV. Inside,the new HR-V will offer class-leading boot space: 453 litres with the rear seats up and 1,026 litres with the rear seats down.

Thanks to innovative packaging, the HR-V’s best-in-class interior space is exceptionally versatile and incorporates Honda’s highly practical Magic Seats system. Premium quality materials and sophisticated cabin design are blended with the feel of a sporty, enveloping cockpit.

Specification highlights include the advanced Honda Connect in-car infotainment system, and a wide range of safety aids employing radar and camera technologies to scan the road ahead.

Further details including pricing will be available closer to the new HR-V’s summer launch.

instrumentation. There are also distinctive 18” Diamond cut alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights within the headlamp units, front parking sensors, auto-dipping rear view mirror, heated rear seats and Sat Nav to set the car apart, which is also now available in a smart new Dandy blue metallic finish.

“We are continually looking for ways to reinforce the SsangYong value proposition,” says Paul Williams, CEO of SsangYong Motor UK, “and this new Rexton W ELX adds a number of significant enhancements at very little extra money. This highly competent 4x4 just got even better!”

Rexton W Built on a steel ladder chassis and with a 3 tonne towing capacity, the SsangYong Rexton W is a serious off-roader and tow-car.

Powered by SsangYong’s own 2.0 litre turbo charged e-XDi200 diesel engine, it delivers maximum power of 155ps/4,000rpm and maximum torque of 360Nm/1,500-3,000rpm, and is designed to provide low end torque whatever the conditions. There is a choice of 6-speed manual transmission or 5-speed Mercedes-Benz T-Tronic automatic.

Noted for being an extremely competent off-roader, Rexton W uses a body on frame construction for maximum strength, and the car also features a sophisticated multi-link rear suspension system to ensure a comfortable ride both on and off-road.

The new Rexton W has an almost unrivalled position in the 4x4 sector. Prices start from only £21,995, with the new the ELX at just £27,995.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

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Great Wall Bath Somerset Tel: 01225 473014

Haven Motor Holdings Ltd Sussex Tel: 01403 891700

Shukers Great Wall Shrewsbury Tel: 01743 444500

www.bathhonda.co.uk

www.havenmotors.co.uk

www.shukers.com

MTC Great Wall Cambridgeshire Tel: 01733 309782

Garland Great Wall Hampshire Tel: 01252 367373

www.mtcars.co.uk

www.winchestermotorgroup.co.uk

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

May 2015 | Farming Monthly | 71

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