INSIDE: Farm machinery show returns to Nottinghamshire page 41
Farming
MONTHLY National
November 2017
Also in this issue... Sheep & Lambing
| Electric fencing for sheep page 31
Flood mitigation Also inside this month..
Scientists join forces with farmers, communities & local authorities in major research project page 10
Farm Business Innovation p09
Potato handling advances p15
Path to improved grain quality p23
PLUS: Arable | Potatoes | Shows | Buildings | Machinery | Energy | ATV | Motors
CONTENTS November 2017
FEATURES 14
20
12 Arable CropTec Show preview, Crops evolve millennia before experts thought
29
35 Muck & Slurry
31
38 Forestry
Latest news
New report reviews role of trees in flood allieviation
14 Potatoes BP2017, New CIPC labelling
18 Grain Perrys at 70, Barley grain quality
REGULARS
25 Buildings Class Q dissused buildings, Wind loading on agricultural buildings
28 Livestock Winter Stock Festival 2017
31 Sheep & Lambing Electric fencing for sheep
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06 News Farmers a target for hackers
10 On Topic Flood mitigation research project
23 Energy Latest energy news
41 Machinery Latest machinery news
49 ATV ATV news...covered.
54 Motors Latest motors news
www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
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Agriculture. Covered.
Flood mitigation project
p10
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November 2017 | Farming Monthly | 05
| News
Farmers can’t afford to stand still, says David Black winner
Charlie Allen - winner david black 2017
Succession planning, highly-skilled staff, new technology and improved genetics will help keep the British pig industry in good shape says the winner of this year’s David Black Award. he award is presented to someone who has made a valuable and sustained contribution to the British pig industry and this year goes to Charles ‘Charlie’ Allen, of Oxfordshire-based DC & RJ Allen & Partners. Charlie received his award today at an industry breakfast, attended by politicians, members of the House of Lords and industry leaders. It was presented by Neil Parish MP, Chairman of the EFRA Select Committee. Charlie said: “I’ve been in the industry all my life, growing up looking after pigs and I’ve been at it ever since. I’m just an ordinary pig farmer, it’s as simple as that, so to receive the award was a surprise and I never thought for a minute I would get it.” Charlie started farming in 1971 with his father, uncle, brother and cousin, with responsibility for 300 sows and has never looked back. Today, the business has more than 5,000 sows at units in Oxfordshire and Dorset which Charlie still runs with his brother but now also his son and two nephews. He was a founder member of the NPA Producer Group and is
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chairman of Thames Valley Cambac which has grown to be the largest pig marketing operation in the UK. Charlie added: “We’re a large family business. My father and uncle started off with 250 acres and today we farm in the region of 7,000 acres. The business has been successful over the years, through hard work and a bit of luck. The key to that success is, however, teamwork and the strength of our team here has stood us in good stead over the years. “Generally we’ve always been very proactive farmers, working with processors, understanding customers and supplying what they want. I’ve always realised you can’t stand still though. We’ve upgraded buildings and utilised the latest technology to ensure we’re in a position where we’re operating as up to date as we can be. There have also been tremendous advances in pig genetics and pig health. “The industry has totally changed. The biggest change was brought about by the sow stall ban where we lost virtually half of our industry. We need to make sure we don’t lose the other half as we go through Brexit and look to open
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new markets. “While the industry is becoming more specialised we should ensure we put ourselves in the strongest position possible to
compete in the global market. Going forwards, the important point is that whatever we do, we need to do it well.”
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| News
Draper Tools launches its biggest range of modular Eva Foam Insert Trays Draper Tools is pleased to announce the launch of its biggest ever range of 52 modular mix & match EVA Foam Insert Trays, allowing you to get the tools you need quickly and easily. These trays are designed to fit both Draper Tools and Draper Expert tool chests, as well as similar tool chests from other manufacturers.
esigned for the busy workshop, these high-quality inserts allow you to locate the exact tool each and every time, improving productivity. Gone are the days of digging through the cabinet trying to find that elusive 10mm spanner or 13mm socket, with these CNC machined drawer inserts you know exactly where the right tool is! You can even see what’s missing after the job – thanks to the dual colour EVA foam which shows exactly what has been left behind. This is essential to protect from FOD (Foreign Object Damage) in complex machinery or aeronautics. The modular design allows a mixture of differently sized trays to fill a cabinet drawer. Trays come in quarter, half, three quarter and full and “full-plus” (for roll cab drawers) sizes, making a wide range of tool kit combinations possible. The quarter drawer inserts have
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a cleverly designed removeable section allowing them to even fit into third width drawer sizes with ease. The new Eva Foam Insert Tray range is precision cut by CNC machinery, each cavity being purpose designed for each tool, to ensure a perfect fit. High quality, dual colour ‘Closed Cell’ Eva Foam is used for the trays so they don’t absorb liquids. Each insert is fully resistant to workshop fluids such as oils, fuels or brake fluid. The trays are easy to clean too, should they get dirty, simply use a normal workshop pressure cleaner. In the new Draper Tools range, you’ll also find Eva Insert Infill Trays designed to help organise other workshop essentials like screws, nuts and bolts. These are ideal for filling space in tool chests and storing loose items safely. To see this comprehensive range for yourself, contact your Draper Tools representative or visit www.drapertools.com
November 2017 | Farming Monthly | 07
| News
Farmers a target for hackers Farmers could become the next big target for cyber criminals following bumper payments from the Scottish Government. ollowing approval at Holyrood, payments worth £254million were made in late October to farmers and crofters - up to 90% of their Common Agricultural Policy basic payment support loan. Yet by conducting simple research, it is possible for anyone to find out how much an individual farmer has received in previous CAP payments and how much they will likely receive this year. Experts from the Scottish Business Resilience Centre (SBRC) believe this widely publicised payment makes farmers a prime target for cyber criminals. Gerry Grant, Chief Ethical Hacker with the SBRC, said: “I know how vital these payments are to the livelihood of farmers and crofters. “This makes it even more important that they’re fully aware
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that it can make them an easy target for criminals to try and scam them. “Criminals can easily work out an accurate estimation of what a farmer is likely to receive in CAP payments and armed with this information, they can try and steal the money. “They can send various emails to try and get passwords for bank accounts or even try and trick unsuspecting farmers into making payments to the wrong account.” This type of cybercrime is known as CEO or Mandate fraud and could potentially put famers’ livelihoods at risk. Experts are urging farmers to be conscious that they will likely be targeted over the coming weeks and should be extra vigilant about any suspicious emails or phone calls. The types of calls will usually involve someone asking them to take urgent action in relation to payments or their bank accounts.
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Anyone who receives a suspect call is urged to verify the email address or phone number with the person who initiated contact. They can do this by hanging up and searching the internet for the relevant phone number or address. Things farmers should be on the lookout for:
Emails from suppliers asking for funds to be transferred to a different bank account Emails claiming that there is a problem with an account Phone calls from banks saying that there appears to be unusual activity on their account.
Worker shortages could cause supply chain disruption next year The NFU’s labour provider’s survey1 reveals that there was a 29% shortfall in seasonal workers for horticulture businesses in September, raising the average shortfall for the year to 11%. he survey also shows that the number of returning workers to farms, a critical source of the workforce, fell to 16%, its lowest level all year. The returnee rate had been as high as 65% in January. Farmers are feeling the impact on farm as the cost of food production is rising through higher wages, reduced picking rates and, in some cases, non-harvesting of crops. NFU Deputy President Minette Batters said: “The British horticulture industry is critically important to British agriculture, providing vital jobs and value to the economy. “As an industry, we have the opportunity to enhance our homegrown food production and increasing the amount of fruit and veg we grow should be a central part of that. “The situation for farms has become a lot more challenging and farmers are already experiencing the serious effects a
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lack of workers can have on a business, with some being forced to not harvest crops. “If the industry continues to see serious shortfalls in the availability of workers, the knock-on effects for the supply chain and the public could be serious. “Access to a competent and reliable workforce is vital for our food production, especially in a time of record low levels of UK unemployment. “There remains a window of time between now and May 2018 for the Government to take action to prevent a shortfall and the ensuing impacts. “The simplest measure would be a tried and tested seasonal agricultural workers scheme open to non-EU workers to top-up the access we have now to EU nationals. “Post-Brexit, we need to see an immigration policy that is based on fact and business need and recognises the importance and seasonality of workers across all skill levels.”
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| News
Farm Business Innovation Show 2017 The Farm Business Innovation Show is the event for farmers, landowners, rural businesses, entrepreneurs, estate, and country house owners to find new ways to diversify and increase their income. The event is returning to the NEC in Birmingham on November 8th and 9th and tickets are still free. iversification in the rural sector is a vital way to keep traditional methods of income viable in an unstable economic climate. By turning a portion of land towards an alternative stream of income, the traditional business is able to continue running with the support of additional income. This can be anything from turning one field towards renewable energy, to letting out buildings as offices or accommodation to opening a glamping or camping site. The aim of the Farm Business Innovation Show is to offer every step of the diversification process, all under one roof. This means everything from the first initial spark of an idea, to the supplies and logistics required to build it into a full fledged success. Inspiration can be found around every corner of the venue, delivered through case studies from industry experts who have gone before, or discovered by wandering through the aisles and seeing the amazing new technologies and products that are changing the landscape of rural business. Inspiration for an idea is of course only the first step towards branching into a new revenue stream. This is why the Farm Innovation Show also provides answers and solutions to the more logistical steps. Rural businesses will be able to take their pick from over 500
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handpicked suppliers who have everything you need to build your perfect diversification project. On top of this, experts are on hand for everything from planning permission and tax advice to marketing and PR, the Farm Business Innovation Show has every rural businesses covered every step of the way. The seminar line up for the 2017 event is second to none with the Keynote stage hosting the likes of Michael Eavis of Glastonbury Festival and Worthy Farm, Geoff Sansome the Head of Agriculture for Natural England, and Doug Gurr the UK Head of Amazon, among many others. Seminar topics covered at the event range from how to host a festival on your land, and the benefits of adding falconry as an attraction and pest control, to advice on opening a glamping site and unlocking the digital potential of rural UK! Along with the seminars, the event will put on a host of live panel discussion by top industry experts on hot topics such as Glamping, Weddings, Planning Permission, Succession Planning, Social Media, Marketing, and Equestrian Business. There is also a live demo area where some of the latest gadgets will be tested and showcased along with a speed yurt building competition. The Farm Business Innovation Show is excited to announce that this year’s event will
feature the Amazon Academy. This is a series of seminars and workshops designed to help rural businesses and entrepreneurs to get inspired to unlock their digital potential and increase their global reach. Your free ticket to the Farm Business Innovation Show will also gain you access to sister shows, Country House Business Innovation, Holiday Park & Resort Innovation, and The Family Attraction Expo. Make sure you don’t miss this incredible event and register for your free ticket via www.farmbusinessshow.co.uk
Jersey chooses LEAF Marque to deliver more sustainable farming Jersey’s dairy and arable farmers are being asked to become LEAF Marque certified as part of the Island’s new rural support scheme, which requires them to follow internationally recognised sustainable farming practices. Under the Rural Economy Strategy 2017 - 2021, which aims to grow Jersey’s rural economy while safeguarding its countryside and environment, farmers must be LEAF Marque certified by 2019. he LEAF Marque is an environmental assurance system recognising more sustainably farmed products and is underpinned by the sustainable farming principles of Integrated Farm Management (IFM). A number of LEAF’s technical team recently visited Jersey to meet with farmers to discuss LEAF Marque requirements and offer training in topics such as soil management and fertility, pollution control, animal husbandry, energy efficiency and nature conservation. The training, funded by Jersey’s Department of the Environment, was well received by farmers. More than half (approx. 6,000 hectares) of land on Jersey is used for agriculture, including land farmed by potato growers the Jersey Royal Company who are already a LEAF Marque certified member. Jersey’s Director of Rural Economy and Head of Plant Health, Scott Meadows, said: “The industry has responded very positively to the LEAF scheme and there was a really good turnout for the training. Farmers are already up to speed with many of the requirements as they had to comply with them under a previous rural support scheme, but LEAF covers subjects in more depth and
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has a broader set of requirements. It gets farmers thinking about how they can farm to the best possible standards, with biodiversity, public goods, and sustainability being held in equal regard to profit. Our aim during the five year span of the scheme is to move to a model where government is directly purchasing public goods from land managers in exchange for financial and innovation support. The public goods highest up the agenda are improved water quality, biodiversity and sustainability.” Caroline Drummond, Chief Executive of LEAF said: “We’re delighted that the LEAF Marque assurance system has been chosen by the government of Jersey to help drive forward its vision of a sustainable, diverse and innovative agricultural industry. We know from independent research* that LEAF Marque certification delivers a range of economic, environmental and social benefits. It empowers and enables farmers to make positive changes to more sustainable farming and allows them to celebrate and demonstrate their achievements in the marketplace. We are greatly looking forward to working together with the government of Jersey and the Island’s farmers to support the wider strategic needs of Jersey, with regards to sustainable food production,
water security and the quality of the environment.” Jersey’s Minister for Economic Development, Tourism, Sport and Culture, Senator Lyndon Farnham added: “I’m pleased to see the new scheme beginning to deliver what it set out to do - to grow the rural economy while safeguarding Jersey’s countryside and environment. To do this, we’ve had to rewrite the contract government has with farmers, and I think that it will produce a more sustainable future for the agricultural sector.” In addition to the new rural scheme in Jersey, LEAF’s farming methods are also being recognised by other organisations including retailers and levy boards. Waitrose, which requires all fresh produce suppliers to be LEAF Marque certified, has put LEAF Marque at the centre of their consumer marketing activity. Meanwhile, the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) will be using the LEAF Sustainable Farming Review on-line management tool as part of its efforts to measure its Strategic Farm’s economic, environmental and social performance. For more information on the LEAF Marque visit: https://leafuk.org/farming/leaf-marque
November 2017 | Farming Monthly | 09
| On Topic
Scientists join forces with farmers, communities and local authorities in major flood mitigation research project Choosing different crops, building soil organic matter and planting more trees could allow farmers to reduce the risk of nearby rivers from bursting their banks miles downstream, according to an innovative new research project. esearchers in a collaborative project led by the University of Reading will work with farmers, advisors, communities and local authorities across the West Thames area to learn how different land management methods impact on flood risk. The LANDWISE (LAND management in loWland catchments for Integrated flood riSk rEduction) proposal was one of only three to be backed with funding from the National Environmental Research Council (NERC)’s £4.1m Understanding the Effectiveness of Natural Flood Management (NFM) program, and will receive £1.25m. A lot of attention recently has been given to ‘slowing the flow’ within river channels using wood to create leaky barriers. LANDWISE aims to look at the wider landscape and investigate ways to reduce the volume of water entering river channels in the first place, and to ‘slow the flow’ by enabling water to move slowly below the ground surface. This can be done by
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increasing the amount of water that can be absorbed by soil and returned to atmosphere through crops and trees, or stored in deep groundwater. These more natural methods, including crop choice, land preparation, building soil organic matter and tree-planting, can reduce the amount of water that runs off the land surface. They improve soil structure to allow more rainwater to infiltrate below ground. Dr Joanna Clark, Associate Professor of Environmental Science at the University of Reading, and project lead, said: “If you think about the land surface as a bucket, then these different land use and management methods can help us to increase the size of that bucket and help to empty it so that it can hold more water when it rains again. This is about making small changes over the large catchment area as a whole, rather than large changes in small areas where flooding occurs. “The views, experience and knowledge of farmers, landowners and communities are often overlooked during research that heavily affects
them. The LANDWISE project is built upon the innovative practices that are currently ongoing within the West Thames area. We found there are many farmers who have already made responsible changes to their land management practices that have the potential to reduce flooding, and others could be further incentivised by changes in agricultural policy. “More work is now needed to fully understand how effective current efforts made by farmers to rebuild soils have been to reduce flooding - the LANDWISE project will quantify by how much, where and how the flood risk benefits are scaled up from small catchment to large river basins, like West Thames. To do this, we will work on developing methods to measure the land surface from space and use of this data in predictive models alongside local knowledge. We are proud to have been awarded a share of funding that will shed light on how we can reduce the impact of flooding by dealing with the sources of runoff rather than the downstream effect.” The LANDWISE research focuses on the
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| On Topic
West Thames River Basin area, where around 112,000 properties are thought to be at risk of flooding if rivers burst their banks, almost 10,000 are at risk of groundwater flooding, and many more are in danger of surface water flooding. Work will initially focus on the Loddon, Pang and Upper Thames catchments, before being scaled up to the Thames river basin upstream from Oxford and Maidenhead. The project will explore whether broad scale changes in land use and management could have helped to reduce the severity of flooding events of July 2007 and winter 2013/14. Following the successful NERC funding bid, the team will gather data to test how effective these measures are for small to large flood events and from local to large river basin scale. They will bring together local knowledge on current land management methods, record how they impact water infiltration and storage below ground using field measurement and new satellite technology, and run modelling experiments based on the data collected and local knowledge. A new, easy-to-use, interactive online data visualisation tool will be developed to help
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everyone in the team evaluate data sources effectively. This work will be supported by workshops and further field visits, working together with farmers, communities and local authorities. The Institute for Environmental Analytics, a cutting-edge data science organisation hosted by the University, will be leading the development of an interactive online visualisation tool to view and analyse the data effectively. The team will aim to find realistic opportunities for future Government policy on land use and management changes after Britain leaves the EU. NFM measures could also improve water quality, biodiversity and sustainable food production. The scientists will also carry out further study into the potential risk of more flooding that could be caused by increased infiltration and storage of water in deep groundwater if it results in higher groundwater levels. NFM projects led by the University of Manchester and the University of Lancaster were also granted NERC funding. Professor Robert Van de Noort, University of
Reading Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Academic Planning & Resource and Chair of the Thames Regional Flood and Coastal Committee, said: “We are all too aware of the risk of flooding to people, infrastructure and businesses in the Thames Valley and invest significant amounts of money to reduce this flood risk. Natural flood management is a critical part of this work. The LANDWISE project will give us urgently-needed evidence of the effectiveness of natural flood management that will provide us with the confidence to work more with nature.” Christopher Short, of the Countryside and Community Research Institute at the University of Gloucestershire and chair of the Upper Thames Catchment Partnership, said: “We are particularly delighted that this project has secured funding as it recognises the strength of the partnership in the Upper Thames involving a wide range of stakeholders all of whom have something to contribute to the long-term management of the catchment. Their knowledge and experiences will be key to the successful delivery of the project and we look forward to working with them.”
November 2017 | Farming Monthly | 11
| Arable
The CropTec Show – the one-stop-shop for all things precision The rapid march of technology continues, providing growers and agronomists with increasingly powerful crop management systems. or those looking to make the most of their farm data, The CropTec Show is an unmissable event. Many firms at the forefront of this sector are attending – companies supplying kit that can harness vast amounts of crop information and, equally importantly, deliver the software to make sense of it all. The results help growers finetune cultivations, establishment, inputs, and harvesting, and provides accurate yield forecasts to help plan the storage and sales of harvested crops. For newcomers and old hands alike, there is plenty to whet the appetite at Croptec for all things precision. Rezatec is offering a suite of data services at CropTec. The company claims its agricultural
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monitoring and harvest yield analytics employ a unique combination of crop growth models driven by weather, management, genetic and soil parameters, which are combined with satellite data and machine learning to give an unrivalled insight into farming productivity. Decision-support tools derived from the process deliver a range of benefits, such as improved crop yields, lower production costs, and the ability to measure and monitor crops, forecast yield and improve supply chain resilience. Rezatec is co-sponsoring the Data & Analytics Hub at CropTec (with Prodata Weather Systems). The hub will explore the opportunities and profit-earning potential of using and analysing farm data. Agrovista’s precision team is on hand at CropTec to explain how
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rapid and highly accurate sampling of soils and new drone technology integrate with the company’s cloud-based crop management system, Axis, facilitating cost-effective farming practices. Agrovista has upgraded to a new soil-scanning machine, the Veris U3. This measures key soil data such as pH, organic matter levels, electro-conductivity (to ascertain soil type) and topography to ensure appropriate fertility management strategies are employed. The machine can be towed by a 4x4, UTV or tractor at speeds of up to 16kph in 12m bouts. Agrovista can fly customers’ fields with drones and process data, such as establishment, biomass presence of weeds and diseases and plant counts, for a wide range of crops. The aim to
help optimise crop establishment and minimise the need for rectifying treatments during the growing season. In addition, the information helps formulate accurate yield forecasts. SOYL is unveiling five precision innovations at CropTec. ZoneSwitch allows the automatic switching on or off of granular applicators, enabling the operator to automate patch application within fields and/or restrict application of products around features such as watercourses. A new ‘Active’ mode for the variable rate app iSOYL will be introduced at CropTec. It enables problems or features to be logged whilst spraying or applying fertiliser, useful for recording information such as patches of weeds, slug damage or watercourses. In addition, a range of
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| Arable improvements have been made to SOYL’s web-based precision crop service MySOYL, including performance maps that combine yield data over multiple seasons. This shows which parts of fields are performing or underperforming, or are inconsistent. MySOYL also now allows users to see past weather data for their farm, helping farmers make smarter decisions in combination with crop production data layers. A new variable rate nitrogen approach for spring barley uses layers of map data related to historic spring barley yields, soil surveys and satellite imagery to create areas of high and low yield potential. Areas with high yield potential have shown good yield increases from additional nitrogen without compromising quality. Agrii’s SoilQuest Precision Agronomy offers a service to evaluate, consult, and gather soil and nutrient data to advise on the specific needs of individual farm businesses. Visitors to the SoilQuest stand can find out how the service provides a tailor-made precision agronomy package to help drive yields, target inputs and maximise efficiency, based on the creation of accurate field maps showing soil variation and nutrient status. These are combined with
accumulated grower and agronomist farm knowledge to divide fields into separate management zones to put nutrients where they are needed. SoilSmart, part of ACS Farm Image, is expanding its range of tailored sampling and analysis packages to include Precision Sampling and Smart Scanning. Precision Sampling uses GPS technology to systematically sample a field, taking 16 cores/ha, or a specific number of samples/ha at the request of the farmer. This enables Farm Image Precision Maps that show field zones for pH, P, K and Mg. Smart Scanner uses the latest in-field scanning equipment adding analysis of organic matter, soil texture (electrical conductivity) and topography via a Veris U3 soil scanner, which can to take 200 readings/ha and form on-the-go field maps via an on-board tablet. Opti-cal provides cutting edge drone software and hardware solutions and can support growers entering the world of aerial survey work. Its range of sensors include the Parrot Sequoia multispectral sensor, which analyses plants' vitality by capturing the amount of light they absorb and reflect. The DJI Zenmuse XT sensor has thermal capabilities, that enable more efficient management of irrigation and water pooling.
Using Pix4D’s cutting edge software, multispectral, RGB and thermal images can be converted into accurate reflectance and index maps, says the company. The Landmark Team is demonstrating the latest version of Geofolia, due to be released in January. Landmark says this croprecording system has been proving itself on UK sites, since its LAMMA’17 launch. It covers crop assurance, stock records, costings and mapping all in one place, avoiding the need for multiple spreadsheets, and also with a cloud and mobile app option to aid manager and operator alike. 30MHz uses wireless sensors and an intuitive analytics dashboard to help farmers monitor their greenhouses, fields, storage or processing facilities to drive productivity, increase profitability and cut costs. Developed in collaboration with Dutch farmers, the Smart Sensing Toolkit is scalable, flexible, durable and deploys out of the box in moments. The company will be exhibiting a range of sensors that capture granular, real-time metrics including crop-level dewpoint, temperature humidity, pointed temperature and soil moisture for a variety of substrates. Visitors heading for the Harper Adams stand will get a fascinating
insight into the ground-breaking Hands Free Hectare (HFHa), run by Harper Adams University and Precision Decisions. This project successfully planted, tended and harvested a crop using only autonomous vehicles and drones, a global first. For newcomers and old hands alike, there is plenty to whet the appetite at Croptec for all things precision The Iseki tractor which was used earlier in the project for the spraying, drilling and rolling, will be exhibited at CropTec. The tractor is small and light as the team believe that using smaller agricultural machines could improve soil and plant health. It also fits with the vision of small fleets of machines carrying out automated crop operations in the future. The organisers say new talent will be needed in the industry to develop the technology. They hope this project has helped to inspire and show people the range of interesting and innovative jobs that are available now in agriculture.
Crops evolving ten millennia before experts thought Ancient hunter-gatherers began to systemically affect the evolution of crops up to thirty thousand years ago – around ten millennia before experts previously thought – according to new research by the University of Warwick. rofessor Robin Allaby, in Warwick’s School of Life Sciences, has discovered that human crop gathering was so extensive as long ago as the last Ice Age, that it started to have an effect on the evolution of rice, wheat and barley - triggering the process which turned these plants from wild to domesticated. In Tell Qaramel, an area of modern day northern Syria, the research demonstrates evidence of einkorn being affected up to thirty thousand years ago, and rice has been shown to be affected more than thirteen thousand years ago in South, East and South-East Asia.
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“This study changes the nature of the debate about the origins of agriculture, showing that very long term natural processes seem to lead to domestication putting us on a par with the natural world” Furthermore, emmer wheat is proved to have been affected twenty-five thousand years ago in the Southern Levant – and barley in the same geographical region over twenty-one thousand years ago.
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The researchers traced the timeline of crop evolution in these areas by analysing the evolving gene frequencies of archaeologically uncovered plant remains. Wild plants contain a gene which enables them to spread or shatter their seeds widely. When a plant begins to be gathered on a large scale, human activity alters its evolution, changing this gene and causing the plant to retain its seeds instead of spreading them – thus adapting it to the human environment, and eventually agriculture. Professor Allaby and his colleagues made calculations from archaeobotanical remains of the crops mentioned above that contained ‘non-shattering’ genes - the genes which caused them to retain their seeds – and found that human gathering had already started to alter their evolution millennia before previously accepted dates. The study shows that crop plants adapted to domestication exponentially around eight thousand years ago, with the emergence of sickle farming technology, but also that selection changed over time. It pinpoints the origins of the selective pressures leading to crop domestication much earlier, and in geological eras considered inhospitable to farming. Demonstrating that crops were being
gathered to the extent of being pushed towards domestication up to thirty thousand years ago proves the existence of dense populations of people at this time. Professor Robin Allaby commented: “This study changes the nature of the debate about the origins of agriculture, showing that very long term natural processes seem to lead to domestication - putting us on a par with the natural world, where we have species like ants that have domesticated fungi, for instance.” The research, ‘Geographic mosaics and changing rates of cereal domestication’, is published in Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B.
November 2017 | Farming Monthly | 13
| Potatoes
BP2017 seminars to set path for potatoes post-Brexit Farmers, researchers and the supply chain are to share the stage during the seminar programme at BP2017 as the potato industry reviews current performance to develop its future. ovember 22 and 23 marks the first time the biennial event has taken place since the EU referendum, and seminar programme organisers AHDB Potatoes will encourage collaboration as a route to success for the industry. To stimulate discussion and develop closer relationships with members of the supply chain, this years’ event includes a panel debate on ‘The Big Brexit Opportunity,’ which will benefit from contributions from all sectors of the potato industry. Rob Clayton, Potatoes Strategy Director at AHDB said: “BP2017 provides a chance for the industry to pull together, discuss opportunities and take stock of the current challenges faced. This considered approach is needed to prepare to move forward, with rapid change on the horizon. “Opportunities must be taken quickly. Those who do nothing risk being left behind as change carries on. We are trying to encourage farmers to wake-up and avoid ‘sleep-walking’ into Brexit.” The exhibition, held at the Harrogate Showground, is the only event attended by the entire industry, from ‘seed to shopping trolley’. The chair of the NFU Potato Forum will form part of the panel on Brexit, he farms pigs,
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produces peas and arable crops alongside potatoes for the prepack market. Alex Godfrey, said: “Forward thinking potato growers will be looking to the opportunity Brexit presents to replace potatoes imported from within the EU with British grown product. “However, labour shortages and risk associated with a mishandled ‘lift and shift’ of EU crop protection rules into UK law, could deny us access to activities and trade. But if it heralds the start of a move to a new science based, risk based regime then we will all benefit.” The Brexit debate and a session focussed on learning from other major potato producing nations form part of a series of seminars focussed on how the potato industry can remain competitive. Rufus Pilgrim, Commercial Director at potato supplier R S Cockrills, recently completed a Nuffield Scholarship and study tour of major potato producing nations. Speaking ahead of his contribution to AHDB Potatoes ‘Lessons from Global Producers’ seminar he said:
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“We have much to be positive about in our industry; having the climate, marketplace, resources, knowledge but few of the environmental, political and social challenges that affect other potato producing regions. ”While we may celebrate this, we cannot rely on ‘GB only’ policies to maintain our industry” There will be 11 seminars held in total at the two-day event, which will see over 6,000 potato professionals through its doors.
Rob Clayton said: “Along with our review of competitiveness we will consider how our customers are changing, be they consumers at the supermarket or the nation states that buy British seed potatoes through our existing EU trade agreements. We will call on researchers to take the stage with growers as we consider productivity. And our team will be on hand to discuss market volatility, as we continue to lead the debate and engender discussion on the key issues that affect us all.” The full programme can be viewed at bp2017.co.uk
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| Potatoes
Tong to showcase advancements in potato handling at BP2017 Tong Engineering will be promoting the latest advancements in potato grading, washing and handling equipment at this year’s British Potato event in Harrogate on 22nd and 23rd November. xhibiting at BP2017 on stand 209, when the event returns to the Yorkshire Event Centre, Tong is welcoming visitors to the company's stand to enjoy light refreshments and find out more about the latest potato handling equipment developments that are bringing increased efficiencies, reduced costs, minimal labour requirements and increased crop yield. "As with all technology, the capabilities of potato grading, washing and processing equipment is advancing all the time, making the handling process from field to pack much more productive," says Edward Tong, Managing Director at Tong Engineering. "The BP2017 event brings the perfect opportunity to meet with existing and new customers to discuss
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how these advancements can be embraced for noticeable bottomline savings." "With downward pressure on potato prices, our customers are continuously looking at how they can reduce handling costs whilst improving the value and quality of their saleable crop," explains Edward. “An increasing minimum wage means labour costs are steadily on the up, and in many cases are highest on the 'costreduction' agenda.” “As UK distributor of the Swissmanufactured Visar optical sorter, we are seeing significant advances for the potato industry in the automation of the potato grading and sorting process,” says Edward. “Visar’s optical potato sorter is exceptionally accurate and consistent, it allows potato growers and processors to quality sort, grade and weigh crop more efficiently and accurately with one machine, without the need for
manual sorting; cutting labour costs whilst increasing grading accuracy and consistency.” “The way in which we control our equipment is also offering growers and processors noticeable savings of time and money,” adds Edward. “Our Blue Inverter Technology continues to offer the very best energy efficiency on all new equipment with electric inverter direct driven motors, ensuring minimal energy consumption and dramatically reduced running costs. And, when it comes to equipment control, our
Auto-Touch HMI controls are now available with industry leading intelligent diagnostics and maintenance features that perform continuous system monitoring; providing precise status reporting that keeps downtime to a minimum; increasing productivity and reducing handling times. "The BP2017 event is always a key date in the potato industry calendar. We look forward to exhibiting at the event once again to discuss our customer's potato handling requirements for 2018 and beyond."
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| Potatoes
New product labels tighten laws further on CIPC application The latest changes to CIPC product labels, introducing new requirements for lower application rates, have been confirmed by the CRD (Chemicals Regulation Division). o Fan - No Fog Critically, fans will be required as part of the application process. CIPC must be actively recirculated during application and until the fog has cleared. The Potato Industry CIPC Stewardship Group (PICSG) has been running the ‘No Fan, No Fog’ campaign for over three years in preparation for this decision. The NAAC CIPC Applicators Group has confirmed that applications will not be made if fog is not able to be recirculated. This is to achieve uniform distribution and residue control as well as efficacy at the lower dose rates. New rates for 2017/18 season For this season, the new statutory limits for total dose, approved by the Chemicals Regulation Division of HSE are 36 grams/tonne for processing (including fish & chip shop supplies and peeling) and 24 g/t for the fresh market. The maximum individual dose is reduced to 12g/tonne. The latest time of application is 14 days before removal from store for sale or processing and is another statutory requirement. Additionally, Stewardship best practice, endorsed by the NAAC’s CIPC Applicator Group and Red Tractor Farm Assurance, continues to allow just one application (now up
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to 12 g/t) in cold stores as CIPC residue declines more slowly at low temperature. This applies to all stores that will be held below 5°C. This application should be made early in storage during pull-down, before the temperature is decreased below 7°C, for maximum efficacy. Mike Storey, AHDB’s Head of Resource Management and Chair of PICSG, said: “As the 2017 store loading season builds, many store managers will be considering their first CIPC apllication.” “The labels now state that Stewardship best practice must be complied with, and so it is a legal requirement that both an NAAC applicator is used to apply CIPC and active recirculation of the store air/fog takes place during and after treatment. This will help ensure compliance with the Maximum Residue Level (MRL of 10 mg/kg)” In stores with positive ventilation (bulk stores and some box stores), active recirculation is most easily achieved by fitting a Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) and using the store’s ventilation system. In overhead throw box stores, active recirculation can be brought about using an air separator or duct at the end of the store to create an ‘open suction’ system. Alternatively, fan-assisted plenums placed within box stacks will ensure active recirculation can be achieved.
Different approaches are detailed in the PICSG’s CIPC Application: A Store Owner’s Guide, which is available at http://www.cipccompliant.co.uk/uploads/filema n/cipcapplicationguide.pdf It is recommended that users consult their NAAC CIPC Applicator to discuss this requirement now to ensure that, if steps have not yet been taken to modify stores, applications can still be made this season. Finally, it is important to note any food, feed or seed, other than ware potatoes, should not be held in stores, which have been treated with CIPC. This is because CIPC penetrates the store fabric and is then re-released risking damaging seed and potentially contaminating food and feed. The Maximum Residue Level for CIPC in anything other than potatoes is the limit of detection (0.01mg/kg). For further information, see the PICSG ‘Be CIPC Compliant’ website www.cipccompliant.co.uk Mike Storey said: “The information on the PICSG website is designed to be accessible, however additional storage advice is available, free of charge, from AHDB’s world-class crop storage research facility at Sutton Bridge. Storage managers can call free on 0800 02 82 111”
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| Potatoes
RWL: For all your application needs RWL Services Ltd are main dealers for Horstine Farmery, Team Sprayers, Bye Engineering and has recently been appointed as the Suffolk and Essex sales and service partner for Scanstone, supplying a wide range of root crop machinery such as destoners, bed formers, bed tillers and now the new Patriot Harvester. hey also offer a full servicing, calibration and NSTS testing service, including sales, spare parts, fitting and support for many makes and models of specialist potato and vegetable application machinery. Examples include nematicide applicators on potato planters, bed-tillers and mixers, precision seed-drills for sugar beet, carrots, parsnips and other vegetables, infurrow sprayers and fungicide powder applicators on potato
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planters and also liquid and granular fertiliser placement systems for potatoes, vegetables and OSR. As of 26th November 2016 it is a legal requirement, under the SUD (Sustainable Use Directive) for farmers and contractors to ensure that all working application equipment has an NSTS certificate. The NSTS (National Sprayer Testing Scheme) is an annual MOT check for all application equipment, and is one of the main target areas of the Voluntary Initiative (VI), ensuring your
machines are safe for both the environment and operator. The test has always been a requirement of major crop assurance and supermarket production protocols, and helps to show customers and the general public of agriculture’s commitment to keeping machines in good condition. It is now a legal requirement and non-compliance could lead to prosecution and threaten Single Farm Payments. In addition to showing commitment to the VI, out of season servicing and calibration ensures maximum efficiency of
your application machinery and can significantly reduce costly downtime. Also the cost of replacing worn nozzles or metering rotors that deliver 5% more than the recommended rate is readily recovered in agrochemical saving and improved efficiency, resulting from better and more consistent application quality. For more information and to discuss any requirements contact Richard Lapage on 07534948361 or richard@rwlservices.co.uk
Small East Suffolk Agricultural Engineers at Harrogate! Bye Engineering Ltd was founded in 1979, and continues to be a family run business today. raditionally and to this day the core of the business is based around agricultural repairs and maintenance including all types of welding and fabrication. Although the business is based in Melton, near Woodbridge in East Suffolk, the customer base extends throughout the country.
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With a dedicated team of experienced employees all fields of repair and maintenance can be covered, from mechanical, electrical and hydraulic to welding and fabrication. Over many years the team at Bye Engineering Ltd have been working very closely with their customers; and several specialized machines have been designed, developed and
manufactured to help these potato and vegetable growers in their quest to improve efficiencies and reduce costs. These include, the Bedmixer, the High Clearance Potato ReRidger, the Potato Crusher, the Power Dolly, the Triple Bed Brush Hoe and the Band Sprayer. They also design and manufacture bespoke machines to suit individual customers needs.
Trevor, James and Richard would like to invite you all to come and see their machines at the BP2017 Event on 22nd and 23rd November at Harrogate. We are on stand 224 in Hall 2. The team at Melton are always excited to take on new challenges and help overcome any problems. Please contact Trevor, James or Richard on 01394 386008
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| Agroforestry
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| Grain
Gibbons gears up for LAMMA ‘18 LAMMA ’18 is fast approaching, and Gibbons Agricultural Fans will be there to showcase its products and services to tens of thousands of farm owners, managers and workers from the UK and abroad. ollowing a successful harvest season selling its high-performance grain store fans and recruiting official resellers across the UK and Ireland, thoughts at Gibbons are already turning to helping British and European farmers in 2018 and beyond. And what better way to begin the New Year than with an appearance at the UK’s largest agricultural show? The 2018 staging of LAMMA at the East of England Showground in Peterborough is set to be the biggest yet, with more than 900 exhibitors and over 40,000 visitors from around the country and overseas expected to attend. Gibbons’ steel and aluminium grain conditioning fans and hotspot airspear fans will form the focal point of the company’s stand. Produced to the highest standards by an expert team, these fans have been used and trusted post-harvest by British farmers for many years. Ranging from 0.13 – 2.2kW, the robust, reliable fans are available as single phase and three phase in most sizes and can be customised to suit specific applications. In addition, Gibbons will be promoting its range of electrical and mechanical products for agricultural processes, including electric motors, gearboxes, pumps and control panels. The team will also be chatting to farmers about Gibbons’ extensive electrical services for farm buildings, such as wiring, mains power, socket outlets and lighting. With just two months until LAMMA ‘18, Gibbons Agricultural Fans Manager Josie Knight is looking forward to the company’s
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debut appearance at the annual show: “We can’t wait to meet farmers from Britain and abroad to chat about the ups and downs of this year’s harvest and to see how we can help them going into 2018. “LAMMA offers us a great chance to show farmers not only our best-selling grain store fans
but also our comprehensive range of agricultural products and services that can save them money and make their lives easier.” Meanwhile, Gibbons will also be promoting its official Agricultural Fans resellers at LAMMA, displaying a UK and Ireland map marked with approved distributor locations. Gibbons directs
agricultural fans enquiries to the client’s local distributor, who then processes the order and dispatches the equipment. Official resellers enjoy prominent exposure at LAMMA and other high-profile events, as well as in trade publications and via Gibbons’ website, social media and other marketing activities. With resellers being steadily
recruited, prospective distributors are being encouraged to claim their place on the map in plenty of time for the mid-January event. Those interested in becoming an authorised Gibbons Agricultural Fans reseller should contact Josie Knight on 01621 868 138 (ext. 208) or email fans@gibbonsgroup.co.uk
November 2017 | Farming Monthly | 19
| Grain
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| Grain
The Evolution of Driers Perry of Oakley Ltd are the UK’s most experienced manufacturer of materials handling & drying equipment. Along with this year being their 70th anniversary, they have also been listed as one of the UK’s top 100 SME’s and they have been awarded the accolade of being named SHAPA’s 2017 Exporter of the Year. They have achieved these well-earned titles by providing quality products at affordable prices, using the knowledge and experience that can only be gained through years of experience. erry designed & manufactured their first continuous mixed flow grain drier back in 1955, it had a capacity of 5tph. It was built in a time when mechanical farm aids, many of which were designed by Tom Perry, David Perry’s grandfather & the founder of Perry of Oakley Ltd, were really prominent and becoming a “must” for modern day farmers. The first Perry grain drier was a considerably advanced piece of equipment for its time, and Perry’s latest drier, the Savannah Series, is no different in that it is leading the way with drying technology. Today, the Savannah series driers are capable of capacities from 8tph to 800tph. The Savannah series driers have significant improvements to their operation and appearance in comparison to their ‘M’ Series
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driers, the Savannah’s predecessor. The operation of the fans has been improved as they are now controlled by an inverter and there is also the potential to save power by running the fans at reduced speed and power consumption. The fans selections have been revised to reduce the absorbed power consumption of the driers. The overall drier width was reduced which will help when fitting the drier into existing buildings. The Savannah Series driers come with Perry’s own advanced PLC panel, which is designed and programmed in house, and the auto control, which uses both the exhaust air temperature and hot grain temperature to give advanced control of the drier with feedback, to maintain a consistent moisture content of the discharged grain. If connected to the internet, the panel can send you email and
text alerts including drier status updates and it will alert you to any issues that may have occurred while drying. The PLC panel can also be connected to an app (available free on Google Play & iStore). While connected to the app, you can see your control panel and control it from the app. It provides a direct link to your control panel, meaning you can control your drier from anywhere you have a mobile phone signal or a WiFi connection. Perry’s PLC panel can also control up to 10 other machines. It shows a mimic of your plant, and allows for automatic routes and soft starts. It can help reduce the number of time a product is handled as it allows you to see the available routes quickly & clearly. The PLC panel is compatible with Perry’s range of handling & drying equipment, but it is also compatible with other manufacturers driers & handling equipment. It can be sold separately, allowing all farmers & stores to use the most up to date technology available. To ensure drier longevity the Savannah Series driers are built with a 2mm thick grain column for additional strength, and 3mm thick top ducts in the grain column to help prevent deformation and wear. To promote consistent movement of the grain down the grain column, even in very wet conditions, all Savannah Series Driers are fitted with pneumatically controlled Shutter discharge. This year this has been upgraded to phosphor bronze bushes on all wearing parts. These improvements, and the other key
features of the Savannah range, provide a truly commercial specification grain drier for use on farms and commercial grain stores. David Perry, the current Managing Director of Perry of Oakley Ltd said: “I’d like to think that my Grandfather is very pleased at how well the business has progressed and how far along our product range has come. We always try to stay ahead of the competition and spend a significant amount of time and money investing in our staff training, research & development and manufacturing techniques. The factory has grown significantly over the last 20 years, and we plan for that to continue. We employ some of the most experienced engineers in the UK, which helps us provide solutions to our customers that we know will work well for them. Many of our customers are repeat buyers, we still have machines in use that were manufactured and installed in the 1940’s, which shows that our machines are made to last!” Perry of Oakley Ltd also manufacture a full range of 10tph – 1000tph handling equipment including chain & flight conveyors, belt & bucket elevators, augers & screw conveyors, aspirator precleaners, belt conveyors & much more. To find out more about Perry of Oakley & their range of drying and handling equipment call +44 (0)1404 890300 or email sales@perryofoakley.co.uk. You can also find a full list of products & services at www.perryofoakley.co.uk
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| Grain
New grain dryer control system simplifies harvest management An automated control system helped Shropshire grower Rob Timmis to more effectively manage his 35-tonne/hr Kentra continuous flow dryer this year.
Rob Timmis: “I’m paranoid about avoiding moisture deductions so having a control system that consistently hits the target while reducing my workload and anxiety is very welcome!”
he Dryer Master management system adjusts the dryer as the moisture content of incoming grain fluctuates through the day. “However experienced you are with a dryer, it’s a difficult thing to manage, especially when there’s so much else going on at harvest,” says Rob Timmis. “There’s always a temptation to keep fiddling, so hitting the optimum is really quite hard. “And there’s always the inclination to err on the side of caution because there’s nothing worse than having to put grain through again when it’s half or one percent over the contract terms.” The Dryer Master controller uses sophisticated temperaturecompensating sensors to accurately measure crop moisture content pre- and post-drying. ‘Intelligent’ algorithm software automatically responds to any changes to incoming moisture levels or deviation from the set point target to regulate the time taken for grain to flow through the dryer. Barry Higginbottom of Kentra Grain Systems says: “The aim is to consistently hit an average grain moisture target to avoid lost income through over-drying, and the risk of merchant deductions or additional drying costs resulting from under-drying.” The system ‘learns’ the performance characteristics of a particular dryer during manual operation, before it is given control.
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“Having seen how consistently it can hit the target moisture I’m confident enough to leave it in control when running the dryer overnight,” says Rob Timmis. “Besides, I can always keep an eye on things by remote access on my iPad.” The remote feature also gives him the freedom to attend to things away from the store during the day, such as a machine breakdown in the field. It provides the same key information as the Dryer Master display, which is either built into the existing dryer control cabinet or is available as a self-contained add-on for Kentra and other makes of dryer already in service. Selected settings can be adjusted remotely and the dryer can be stopped remotely too – with elevators and conveyors either shutting down shortly after or continuing to run if drying is to be resumed. “We can keep the dryer working at maximum capacity by easing back the temperature when drier grain starts coming in,” adds Rob Timmis. “So apart from the added flexibility in the way I use my time, the Dryer Master enables me to consistently hit moisture targets, removes some element of anxiety at harvest and is getting better value out of our grain handling and storage system as a whole.” Kentra Grain Systems will feature the Dryer Master system on its stand at the CropTec event being held at the East of England Showground, Peterborough on November 29/30.
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| Grain
Barley spike (c) James Hutton Institute
Barley scientists discover path to improved grain quality Scientists from the International Barley Hub have discovered a genetic pathway to improved barley grain size and uniformity, a finding which may help breeders develop future varieties suited to the needs of growers and distillers. n the latest issue of Nature Communications, cereal genetics researchers working with Professor Robbie Waugh and Dr Sarah McKim, at the James Hutton Institute and the University of Dundee’s Division of Plant Sciences, examined the genetic control of grain formation in barley, specifically the role of a gene called VRS3. Researchers found that a mutation in this gene improved grain uniformity in sixrowed barley.
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“Barley is one of the UK’s most valuable crops and so this discovery is important and likely to have significant economic impact” Dr Hazel Bull, co-lead author of the study and a field geneticist in the James Hutton Institute’s Barley Genetics group, said: “This paper represents eight years’ work, first identifying the VRS3 gene and then assessing its potential for improvement of the barley crop. We are delighted that our discovery could provide real benefits in terms of commercial breeding of six-rowed barley.” This study also highlights the breadth and multi-disciplinary nature of the barley work of the International Barley Hub with the effect of VRS3 studied at all levels from detailed molecular and
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cellular studies through to in-field agronomic assessment. Colin West, chairman of the International Barley Hub, commented: “Uniformity is very important in the processing of the grain after harvest to produce higher quality malt. This discovery has huge potential to benefit both growers and industry: maltsters have always had problems with six-row varieties to deliver malt to customer specification because of variation in grain size around the ear. “A more uniform size distribution leads to more consistent water uptake during steeping, a more even modification of corns during germination, and similarly more consistent drying and colour formation in the kilning process. “All these changes help to produce higher quality malt, and a malt which is more suited to controlled milling in breweries and distilleries. If this VRS3 mutation can be combined with other malting qualities, which will take long-term investment by breeders, then it will give growers more choice in what they sow.” Professor Colin Campbell, Chief Executive of the James Hutton Institute, added: “Barley is one of the UK’s most valuable crops and so this discovery is important and likely to have significant economic impact. The International Barley Hub is showing again that research in this area can yield great returns on investing in basic understanding of barley.” The International Barley Hub is an initiative aiming to create a
Dundee-based world-leading centre to translate excellence in barley research and innovation into economic, social and
environmental benefits. For more information visit www.barley-hub.org
November 2017 | Farming Monthly | 23
| Grain
Monitor Farm: growing oats Robert Cross, Warrington Monitor Farm host, regularly includes oats in his rotation. They follow wheat, two years after beans and particularly help with brome control. HDB Monitor Farms bring together groups of farmers who want to improve their businesses by sharing performance information and best practice around a nationwide network of more than 30 host farms. Monitor Farms are part of AHDB’s wider Farm Excellence Platform, which works with the industry to improve performance through knowledge exchange and benchmarking. This year Robert grew 32ha of RGT Lineout, destined 75 per cent for human consumption to Mornflake and 25 per cent as C1 seed for a local company. For 2017 harvest, the oat crop cost £300/ha in variable costs. This is similar to Robert’s farm average, although a falling nitrogen price has helped reduce his outgoings slightly. Usually oats are a very consistent crop for Robert. “With at least a 7.5tonne/ha yield and more than £140/tonne price there is normally a healthy margin. I’ve found they consistently yield well and therefore are profitable.” This year his oats yielded around 8t/ha, with a bushel weight of 55kg/hl. “I was pleased with my oats this year, although I did have reasonably high screenings and relatively high bushel weights which is a bit of an odd combination. I never have huge quality issues but all the oats are cleaned through the drier nevertheless, to boost the bushel weight. “The oats had laid a bit but they hadn’t gone too close to the floor so combining wasn’t too difficult.”
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Nitrogen The AHDB Fertiliser Manual, formerly known as RB209, gives a broad range of nitrogen rates for oats, so Robert was keen to test the impact of different rates on his own farm. In the new AHDB Fertiliser Manual the N rate for all SNS indices was increased by 40 kg/ha, with the total recommended ranging from 40 to 190 kg/ha, depending on soil type. This year he tried applying three different rates of N to three 1ha blocks of oats: his usual 125kg/ha, as well as 150kg/ha and 175kg/ha. Early in the season there was no visible difference between the oats treated with different N rates, when Robert surveyed the crop with a drone. However, once through the yield monitor, the crop treated with 150kg/ha N had marginally higher yields – only around 0.1t/ha different. “I wouldn’t say the results are overly conclusive, and I didn’t see any particular difference in bushel weights between the three.” The low rainfall in 2016 – 2017 meant that there was some debate over whether all the N had been taken up by the plants. Robert plans to try the on-farm experiment again next year, again sharing the findings with the Monitor Farm group. Judith Stafford, AHDB Knowledge Exchange Manager, said: “The purpose of these on-farm experiments is to generate discussion. Although it’s not a scientific, replicated trial, we can still have some very valuable debate about nitrogen rates for oats and other crops.”
Seed rates Usually sown at a rate of 125kg/ha, Robert plans to try using higher seed rates next year to combat brackling. He will try areas of up to 5ha with three different seed rates, based on getting 250 – 350 plants per metre squared. Robert will compare his usual 125kg/ha with 150kg/ha and possible a higher rate, depending on how his drill copes. Robert said: “This year they were the flattest oats I’ve had in four or five years but I think straw strength has been weak this year around here. I don’t think they went down due to excess nitrogen. “I think there are some fields where higher seed rates would benefit the oats. But drilling conditions will determine how far we actually push them or slacken back.” Variety choice Next year Robert plans to grow 16ha Gerald oats as well as 34ha RGT Lineout, to minimise the risk of any screening issues. This will increase the area sown to 50 ha. Robert said: “I chose Gerald because I’ve found it to be a reliable performer that consistently meets milling standards here. I’ve grown it for more than 20 years. “Some other people around here do grow Gerald, although most seem to focus on Mascani.” The Monitor Farm programme For Robert, the most useful aspect of the Monitor Farm experience so far has been meeting fellow farmers and sharing ideas. Next year he would like to look at improving his yields and soil health across the farm The first meeting of the season at Warrington Monitor Farm is on Wednesday 8 November at Cliff Lane Farm, WA4 4SH. To attend the next meeting, or for more information, contact Judith Stafford on judith.stafford@ahdb.org.uk or 07891 556623
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| Buildings
Class Q – disused buildings could provide much needed income on many farms and estates Class Q Permitted Development Rights have, “changed the way we look at certain buildings and the potential of redundant agricultural buildings; with the possible values achieved”, according to Cath Anthony, Partner, Bidwells. e have recently sold two redundant barns for prices substantially above their guide”, says Anthony. “Both of these barns had very limited potential, being fairly remote and too small for alternative uses but the interest, once Class Q was achieved, was exceptional, with a huge number of offers received on both plots”. However, whilst the Rights have been widely reported as an ‘easy’ way to achieve Residential Planning Permission, with around 60% of applications still being refused nationally, it is essential to ensure that proper advice is taken, firstly to minimise the chances of refusal and secondly to maximise the opportunity/value.
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“Class Q permitted development certainly presents a great opportunity” Added Anthony, “The fees for obtaining the Permitted Development Rights on the two sites mentioned above were under 5% of the values obtained, so there has been an excellent return on investment for our clients”. What is Class Q? Class Q is a form of permitted development that was introduced in 2014 and allows the change of use of certain buildings from agriculture to residential. Class Q has been a hot topic over recent years and has caused a great deal of discussion due to a number of disputes between planning officers and applicants regarding the interpretation of the criteria. Nationally there continues to be a high refusal rate, but Bidwells has had a success rate of over 95%. Common Pitfalls • Structure: Is your building incapable of conversion due to being structurally unsound, or does it need works above and beyond what is acceptable under the criteria of Class Q? Addressing these issues before submitting a prior notification can significantly increase your chances of success. • Impractical or Undesirable: Is your building located near to a slurry lagoon, intensive livestock unit or machinery shed? • Curtilage: Does the area you wish to incorporate as a garden extend beyond the area allowed
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under Class Q? Why not take a two-tiered approach? • Agricultural use: Have you considered how the building sits within your holding, was it solely used for an agricultural use and is it part of an established agricultural unit? Storing a lawnmower or table and chairs, in the building, could be of detriment to your application. Other considerations It is also important to consider the long-term goals and plans for your farm. For example, the use of Class Q Permitted Development Rights will prevent you from applying for a new agricultural building under Permitted Development for 10 years. Also, if you have constructed a new agricultural building under Permitted Development Rights since 20 March 2013, you will not be able to apply for class Q until at least 2023 - (remember, full planning permission for buildings to avoid losing Class Q Rights is always an option). Class Q can also be used as a stepping stone to achieving something which would require full planning permission. Whilst if the building is to be sold, residential will almost always provide the highest return; if it is to be retained and let out, commercial uses, such as offices, may be more lucrative. Class R Permitted Development Rights allow a change of use of buildings and land from agriculture to commercial. This, and a range of other permitted development rights, offers opportunity without the need (and cost) to prepare a full planning application. Anthony concludes, “Class Q permitted development certainly presents a great opportunity to realise income on farms and estates. However, achieving approval is more difficult than initially publicised, meaning that prior notifications must be robust and well thought through, in order to avoid refusal. “Each Local Authority area must be approached in a different way due to the variation of interpretation. Development is certainly achievable, in most cases, but the task of achieving approval is perhaps greater than you may consider. “Bidwells expert team can help you through the process and significantly enhance your chances of success”.
November 2017 | Farming Monthly | 25
| Buildings
Wind loading on agricultural buildings All buildings and other external structures are subjected to wind loading which, over the 20 to 50 year design life of the building, may on occasion be sufficiently strong to cause damage to the cladding and even the building structure. It is therefore essential that this loading is properly accounted for during the design and construction of the building. t is not uncommon to see news footage of roof and wall cladding being ripped off and blown about during severe winter storms and of structural damage to temporary structures and older buildings. It is thankfully rare for modern buildings to fail structurally due to wind loading alone, although this is no reason to be complacent. RIDBA is aware of several instances where buildings have swayed excessively during high winds, resulting in complaints from concerned building owners. Excessive deflections can lead to damage to the building envelope and ancillary components attached to the frame, requiring costly remedial action that could have been prevented by proper consideration of the likely wind loading at the design stage. Wind forces on buildings When the wind blows over or around a building, it is forced to change direction and either speed
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up or slow down depending on the shape and orientation of the obstruction. This causes either an increase or decrease in the external air pressure. When combined with changes to the internal air pressure the result is either a net positive pressure (on windward facing walls and the windward slopes of steep roofs) or a net suction (on leeward facing walls, walls parallel to the direction of the wind and on roofs generally). Importantly, the magnitude of the pressure is proportional to the square of the wind speed, so doubling the wind speed will produce four times the wind loading on the building. From a building design point of view, the most important point to understand is that wind speed varies enormously with location and building geometry, meaning that wind loading is site and building specific, so should be calculated for each and every building project. Since the magnitude of the wind loading has a direct bearing on the design of
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the frame (e.g. column and rafter sizes), it follows that the design of every building is unique and should be calculated or at least regularly checked. It should come as no surprise that a 15m barn designed for a sheltered location in Oxfordshire may not be adequate if placed on a hilltop overlooking the coast of Cornwall. Factors affecting the wind speed: Location Some parts of the country tend to experience higher wind speeds than others and this needs to be taken into account when calculating the wind loading on a building. To enable engineers without specialist meteorological expertise to judge the likely wind speed at a particular location, the available meteorological data has been analysed to produce a contoured “wind map” of the UK, which is published as part of the UK National Annex to BS EN 19911-4 and is reproduced over the page. The values shown on the map are magnitudes of the “basic wind speed” to which correction
Dr Martin Heywood, RIDBA Technical Consultant
factors may be applied to take account of wind direction, altitude and exposure conditions. Altitude Wind speed naturally increases with altitude and this is accounted for by a correction factor that is applied to the “basic wind speed”. This is especially important for agricultural buildings since many are constructed at altitudes greater than 200m above sea level, where wind speeds are significantly higher than those in low-lying locations. Distance to sea The shorter the distance to the sea, the greater the wind speed, since the wind loses energy and speed as it blows across land. The greatest reduction in wind speed
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| Buildings occurs over the first few miles, meaning that locations on the coast experience much higher wind loading than sites only 1 or 2 miles inland. Clearly, cliff top sites that combine a coastal location with altitude experience particularly high wind speeds. Town or country Agricultural buildings are generally built in exposed locations that do not benefit from the shelter provided by a surrounding town or city. This results in higher wind speeds than would be experienced by comparable buildings located on an urban site. Topography Topographical features such as hills can increase wind speed as the air is forced over them. For this reason, it is important for the person calculating the wind loading to have some familiarity with the site and not simply rely on a postcode. Wind direction Wind speed is dependent on direction, with the strongest winds generally blowing from the south west. For this reason, when considering other factors such as distance to the sea or to the edge of town, it is important to consider the direction in which this distance is measured. A common approach adopted by engineers is to consider the wind blowing from
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several points around the compass and to calculate the wind speed for each direction. Building height Taller buildings are exposed to stronger winds and this needs to be reflected in the wind loading calculations. For single storey buildings it is common practice to calculate the wind speed for the ridge height. Standards and software Wind loading should be calculated using a recognised code of practice, which in the UK means BS EN 1991-1-4. This is one of the structural Eurocodes and is applicable across Europe, although each country has its own National Annex containing nationally determined parameters and specific national recommendations. The calculation method in BS EN 1991-1-4 is complex and requires specialist technical knowledge, so it is essential that wind loading calculations are undertaken by a qualified structural or civil engineer. By far the simplest approach is to use one of the many software tools currently available. These range from commercially available packages that take account of all of the factors noted above to free online tools that produce reasonable but conservative results with minimal input from the user. Several steel purlin
manufacturers include wind loading tools as part of their specification software (free to customers). In many cases, the precise site location may be specified in the software by its postcode or grid reference. Alternatively, various online resources may be used to obtain the grid reference, altitude and other location data. Thanks to Google, even the local topography and surrounding terrain may be surveyed without leaving the office. Concluding remarks The design of any steel or timber framed building is dependent on the magnitude of the wind loading acting on the
building. Without knowledge of the wind loads, it is impossible to design the frame or to specify the fasteners for the roof and wall cladding. Since the wind loading depends on so many geographical factors in addition to the shape and size of the building, it should be calculated for each and every building project, since no two buildings will be identical. A Eurocode standard (BS EN 19911-4) provides recommendations for the calculation of wind loading on structures, but these calculations need to be performed by a qualified engineer. Alternatively, the wind loading may be calculated using software, including free online tools.
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| Livestock
Record number of classes for 2017 Winter Stock Festival East of England Winter Stock Festival has announced a host of new classes for its 2017 event, including the addition of a pig section for the very first time.
aking place on a later date of Friday 1 and Saturday 2 December at the East of England Showground, Peterborough, Festival Show Director William Haire says the 2017 festival is set to be the finale of the showing season. “We’re very excited about the introduction of 25 new pig classes to our existing line up of 120 cattle classes and 38 classes for sheep, and are looking forward to once again, welcoming an excellent showcase of commercial and pedigree livestock. “Last year, we attracted over 450 entries and following the addition of new classes and some revisions to improve the sheep schedule, we hope to attract exhibitors old and new to the 2017 festival,” says William. He explains that the changes form part of their objective to extend the events offering to both current livestock producers, as well as the wider industry.
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“We’re working hard to develop the festival to cater for the needs of the wider agricultural industry. Alongside new livestock classes, the 2017 festival will feature a dedicated trade stand area, as well as a range of seminars and demonstrations, with some top experts secured to deliver the latest thinking in agriculture,” concludes William. “Last year, we attracted over 450 entries and following the addition of new classes and some revisions to improve the sheep schedule, we hope to attract exhibitors old and new to the 2017 festival” The deadline for livestock entries closes on 3rd November, with schedules and entry forms available to download online at www.winterstockfestival.co.uk or from the show office.
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| Livestock
Moocall calving sensor or calving cameras? During calving season, it’s important to monitor your animals to ensure that the calving proceeds according to plan and that nothing happens to endanger the lives of cow or calf. t’s only in the last few years where checking on your herd didn’t have to mean a potentially long walk into the calving pens in all kinds of weather to observe the animals in person. Calving cameras became affordable and accessible, letting the farmer check on his herd from the comfort of his own home. However, this still meant needing to get up during the night to check the cameras and about a third of the time still needing to walk to the calving pens to check on the animals that weren’t on camera, that were facing the wrong way or that were acting abnormally.
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Cameras installed or not, the Moocall calving sensor will let you sleep more, make you more productive during the day, and ultimately save you calves, money and time The Moocall calving sensor completely changes this for you.
Now you can wait to check the cameras until you get a notification that calving is underway. The big difference of a Moocall calving sensor vs a calving camera is that the calving sensor measures contractions, so in the case of a difficult calving, the sensor will trigger an alert, even though visually, the animal will look like nothing is happening. Often when there is a hoof caught, or a twisted uterus, labour will not be able to progress and looking at the cow, either through a camera or in person, would not reveal any issues. The calving sensor really shines in these situations, because you always know how long labour has been progressing for. So if your sensor triggers an alert, but within a couple of hours nothing is happening, then that’s the time to handle the animal and investigate further. If you already have a camera system installed in your calving pens, the Moocall calving sensor is an ideal companion. You will spend less time checking on cows and more time in other areas of the farm that could also do with your time and attention.
Cameras installed or not, the Moocall calving sensor will let you sleep more, make you more productive during the day, and ultimately save you calves, money and time. With the newly launched red attachment, which makes the Moocall calving sensor even easier to attach and is designed not to slip down the tail so it can be worn more comfortably and less tight on the tail, this season is the time to invest in a sensor and start breeding like it’s 2020!
New test will improve liver fluke control in cattle A new test to screen herds for liver fluke has been developed, which could help to reduce the risk of cattle developing immunity to existing deworming treatments. attle become infected with liver fluke by eating grass contaminated with cysts containing fluke eggs, shed from mud snails found in damp, marshy areas of pasture. Infection is very common and even low levels can lead to serious losses in production. It can extend time to slaughter and reduce milk yield by up to 15 per cent. The wet weather during late summer is likely to increase the risk of liver fluke infection for cattle on many farms this year. The test involves the collection of faecal samples from a number of cattle in the herd which is then analysed by a lab and a single count reported. The new method was created as part of a joint project involving AHDB and led by the University of Liverpool with the Moredun Research Institute. Mary Vickers, AHDB Beef & Lamb Senior Scientist, said: “Controlling liver fluke is a difficult task, particularly because of emerging resistance to some of
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the flukicidal products used to treat cattle and sheep. Looking to the future, reliance on deworming treatments alone is likely to be unsustainable so treatment informed by diagnosis is crucial for disease control.” The new testing method known as ‘composite faecal egg counting’ is suitable for both dairy and beef cattle and allows herds to be screened for infection, with targeted treatment administered as required. This composite test was found to be at least as good as other diagnostic methods, such as the copro-antigen ELISA, for identifying infected herds. To save time testing in labs in the future, the project team is working to develop pen-side tests, which farmers and vets can use to give diagnostic results straight away, allowing immediate, targeted treatments. The project was funded by a large multi-centre grant from the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council in partnership with AHDB, Hybu Cyg
Cymru (HCC), Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) and Agrisearch Northern Ireland to improve the control of liver fluke infection in beef and dairy cattle. For AHDB, improving animal health and welfare while reducing costs and driving uptake of best practice of on-farm medicine use
is a key area of activity in AHDB Beef & Lamb’s 2017-2020 ‘Inspiring success’ strategy.’ More information can be found in the BRP manual Controlling Worms and Liver Fluke for Better Returns
November 2017 | Farming Monthly | 29
| Livestock
Getting the best return from your housing As thoughts turn to placing your animals indoors for the winter ahead, nothing contrast more than healthy productive outdoor pastures of the last 7-8 months to the harsh environment of living on concrete slats for the coming 4-5 months. In fact it is no wonder that animals don’t do as well during this period. ver time in the barn the cold, wet harsh concrete wears down the animals resistance and If you try to envision how to improve your cattle’s life indoors, words like dry, warm clean, stress free & comfortable spring to mind. What is the one area in the barn that can have an immediate impact in improving the conditions for your animals during the winter period? Yes, giving your animal a dry, comfortable surface to walk upon is the most cost effective return on investment. If you have SLATS, The Green Floor System by Comfort Slat Mats offers a dry, clean and comfortable floor which will benefit your cattle for the winter months ahead. Improving the Environment In addition, the suppleness of the product simulates the normal grassland surface on which animals graze and allows the animal to stand-up or lie-down in a more natural manner. The profiled design of the slat cover
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encourages urine and faeces to move through the gaps between the slats and into the storage tank below the floor resulting in cleaner floors and thus cleaner animals. The Green Floor System by Comfort Slat Mats has been designed as THE solution to prevent lameness caused by the slats by tackling the problems of 1. Wet floors – a casual factor of lameness 2. Lack of grip 3. Unhygienic & Un-healthy floors 1 Curved – for the speedy removal of urine from the floor creating a dry walking area. 2 Dynamic / Cushioned core – designed to allow the claw to “grip” into the floor and 3 Snap-Lock – Encapsulates the slat rib Slat mat may be seen as too expensive, but in time will be deemed essential as their benefits become more accepted. Attributed benefits are reduced lameness, easier for animals to get up, more thrive and more comfort. Even if you feel mats are too prohibitive at today’s margins, you must plan for the future. Go see cattle units on
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other farms and see for yourself. Check out how the mats are performing on these farms, are the mats secure and remain in position. Look at the surface for wear. Are the animals inclined to slip? Why not plan to do a couple of pens! Cattle don’t like getting up from
a slatted floor, so if you see cattle or suckler cows getting up a bit like a horse, you know there is something wrong. Cattle are weary of getting up for fear that their knees will be in the slot when they pivot on them to get up. This increases stress and shortens feeding and lying times.
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| Sheep & Lambing
Using electric fencing on sheep farms Fencing is a valuable tool for sheep producers, as it allows them to control where livestock eat and how long they remain there, enabling them to manage stocking density and grazing pressure. It can also be useful in preventing animals accessing areas that may be dangerous or unhealthy, such as areas where mud snails, the intermediate host for liver fluke, may be present. atie Thorley, AHDB Beef & Lamb Knowledge Transfer Senior Manager, says: “Fencing is a crucial part of systems that include rotational grazing and where the ability to change areas used by stock easily is important. Electric fencing is flexible, can be costeffective and is worth considering as an alternative to conventional fencing.” All-grass wintering of ewes and group grazing of sheep are both examples of systems that rely heavily on electric fencing. Wellmaintained electric fencing can be durable as stock have very little, if any, contact with the fence. Planning is essential when using electric fencing, according to Katie. “Points to consider include the type of fence required, length of area to be fenced, corners and change in direction, requirement for gateways and means of powering the fence,” she says.
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There are three main types of electric fencing; permanent electric, off conventional and temporary electric. It is important to consider what you require from a fence when choosing the best option to suit your needs. Permanent is a long-term option and should be trouble free once erected. To prevent stock rubbing or pushing against original fencing, the use of ‘off conventional’ fencing, which consists of an electric fence wire placed at a small distance from an existing timber or wire mesh fence, is a good solution. For a lightweight option that can be transported easily, temporary electric fencing is ideal, enabling large fields to be broken up for ‘strip’ or ‘paddock’ grazing. With the use of specially adapted quad bikes, the movement and erection of these fences can be very quick. Katie says electric fencing requires a different way of thinking. “With conventional fencing, its security is in direct proportion to
the physical strength of the posts and wire as the animals are able to challenge them directly by rubbing or scratching,” she says. “With electric fencing, the security is in proportion to the voltage and consistency of wire height, as once the animals are trained, they will not challenge the fence providing these are both adequate.” To save time and hassle when putting sheep into fields or paddocks bound by electric fencing, it is a good idea to train your sheep. Set up a three-strand fence 50cm inside the permanent stock fence. Ensure voltage is +4,000V for shorn ewes or ewes with young lambs and +5,000V for weaned lambs and ewes with fleeces Observe the stock for the first hour and then regularly over the following 24 hours. Once all the animals have encountered the fence, run a three-strand fence across one corner of the field and once again observe stock for the
first hour and then regularly over the following 24 hours Then divide the field in half with a fence down the middle and check it over the next 24 hours. If the fence has been challenged by the stock, keep them in the field for another 24 hours or until they stop Once the animals respect the fence, experiment with just two wires for ewes to reduce materials and costs. “The post-weaning period prior to tupping is the best time to introduce ewes to electric fencing,” Katie says. “Do not attempt to train lambs directly after weaning, instead leave at least seven to ten days before introducing them to electric fencing. Lambs learn quickest when introduced while still with their trained mother.” For more information on the use of electric fencing please see the AHDB Beef & Lamb BRP manual ‘Electric fencing for livestock’ at beefandlamb.ahdb.org.uk/returns
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| Sheep & Lambing
Review worm control for optimal lamb growth Merial Animal Health is encouraging farmers to put effective parasite control plans in place using an individual approach based on farm-specific risks , to protect against losses in production and clinical disease associated with gastrointestinal nematodes or gutworms in weaned lambs. very farm has its own specific parasite profile - working closely with a vet or qualified animal health advisor to assess this, and getting to grips with the risk periods for different worm species, and the impact of season, climate and management practices on the parasite challenge will improve control. Reviewing lamb performance and anthelmintic treatments administered so far this year will also provide an indication of the threat worms pose in the coming months. Minimising the pasture challenge faced by growing and finishing lambs is the first step in effective worm control. Prioritising low risk pasture for lambs after weaning will help to maximise their performance and reduce reliance on wormer treatments. Low risk pasture includes reseeding, aftermath and pastures only grazed by cattle or other species this year. Resistance management In addition to management strategies, a major factor affecting the effectiveness of control is the increasing emergence of anthelmintic resistance. Assessing the effectiveness of the different wormer groups at farm level will allow informed treatment decisions to be made. Five anthelmintic groups are available for use in sheep, although multiple active ingredients sit within some of these groups. In the UK, resistance has been identified to Groups 1-3 (benzimidazoles, levamisole and macrocyclic lactones), but its presence varies and farm status should be investigated to allow effective products to be selected. Groups 4 & 5 contain more recently registered products that can be integrated into a treatment programme
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to manage the risk of resistance. A sheep drench containing ivermectin, such as ORAMEC© Drench, can provide an effective tool for the treatment and control of gastrointestinal nematodes as resistance to ivermectin is much less widespread than resistance to commonly used benzimidazolebased products.1 Investigation of farm status will determine whether using ORAMEC© Drench could improve worm control on-farm. What’s more its short six day meat withhold can prove valuable when worming fattening lambs. Understanding the principle of refugia is also vital for resistance management and sustainable worm control. Sioned Timothy Ruminant Technical Manager at Merial Animal Health, advises that: “To minimise selection for resistance a proportion of the worm population on the farm should remain unexposed to the wormer used at each treatment. This includes worms present in untreated animals and worms present on pasture. This mixed population of worms will act to dilute any resistant strains that may survive wormer treatments.” Treating all animals in a group, removing all susceptible worms, and moving them to clean pasture (dose and move) removes the diluting effect of refugia. This strategy can quickly lead to a serious resistance problem; any resistant strains of worms quickly become dominant in the population leading to worm treatments becoming ineffective. This approach should be avoided. Diagnose and monitor for effective worming Increasingly the benefits of a move away from routine worming of lambs are being recognised both in terms of the economic savings and the long-term sustainability of taking an informed approach to treatment decisions. Where more targeted approaches
are taken, a reduction in the number of treatments administered and a corresponding drop in medicine costs is typically seen without any associated reduction in lamb performance. Using faecal egg count (FEC) results from pooled faecal samples collected from at least 10 lambs in each management group is a proven approach to determining whether treatment of lambs is indicated. Counts of above 750 eggs per gram are typically considered high, but the significance of results should be assessed in the context of other farm level risk factors. A follow up faecal egg count on samples collected after treatment is a useful and simple means of assessing treatment efficacy. The sampling interval will vary depending on the active ingredient used, for lambs treated with levamisole a second FEC should be conducted 7 days after treatment, and for benzimidazoles and macrocyclic lactones samples should be collected 14 days after treatment. Regular monitoring of growth rates is an alternative and effective method of assessing the need for anthelmintic treatment. A failure to meet growth targets is strongly associated with parasite challenge, and routine weighing allows targeted treatment of the individual lambs within a group that are most likely to be carrying heavy worm burdens. As with all medicine treatments, correct dosage and administration is critical. When treating for worms, the weight of lambs should be determined as accurately as possible, to reduce the risk of under or over-dosing. Using appropriate dosing equipment that is well maintained and correctly calibrated is also an important factor in treatment efficacy.
Machine feeders consider rearing more surplus lambs More than 50% of sheep producers using an automatic machine to feed ewe milk replacer to surplus lambs find the practice so straightforward that they plan to rear more animals artificially during the 2018 lambing season. he feedback comes from a recent survey of 35 farmers purchasing a Volac Eco Feeder within the last 24 months and highlights how successful artificial rearing is becoming. “Enquiries about automatic milk feeding are at an all-time high in the sheep sector,” reports Jackie Bradley from Volac. “Sheep farmers are undoubtedly attracted by the labour-saving benefits and the fact that machine-rearing frees up time to focus on other important jobs. But they also report faster growth rates because there is no limit to how much or when the lambs can drink. Producers also say they see fewer digestive upsets. Most significantly, though, users are reporting a decent margin over lifetime feed of anywhere between £15 and £25 per lamb.” But it’s not just orphan and third lambs that producers are now putting on machines. The survey shows that farmers are increasingly also taking pressure of young ewes rearing
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multiples to boost lamb survival rates and performance. “This is particularly important for young mothers and will help them keep growing and producing enough milk for the lambs they have left,” Ms Bradley says. When deciding which lamb to remove from a triplet-bearing ewe, Volac nutritionists advise removing either the smallest or the largest one to leave a balanced pair. “Whichever lamb is chosen it must be sucking well, been with its mother for 24 hours after birth and have received a good supply of colostrum, particularly in the first six hours of life.” Machines are available to buy directly from Volac, but Ms Bradley stresses that they are not a substitute for good husbandry. “Sound hygiene is crucial and lamb pens must be draught-free, and well drained and bedded to keep lambs as warm and dry as possible. Clean, fresh water also needs to available along with creep feed (18% crude protein) offered ad lib to encourage early intake. Lambs should be weaned abruptly at no less than five weeks of
age when they are eating an average of 0.25kg of creep a day over three days,” she says.
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| Energy
Alltech launches biogas solution in the U.K With nearly 40 years’ experience in the fermentation of yeast for the animal health industry, Alltech is now extending this know-how to the U.K. anaerobic digestion (AD) sector following the development of Digest P3, an enzyme complex that improves the efficiency of biogas production. iall Brennan, biogas project manager at Alltech, says the move is a logical progression for the company, complementing its existing innovative technologies. “Alltech’s core area of expertise is fermentation, and the biological processes inside an AD plant work similarly to that of a ruminant,” he explains. “With a substantial number of U.K. farmers diversifying into the AD sector, it was a natural fit for us to develop a solution for mixed feedstock plants.” Mr Brennan explains that Digest
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P3 not only improves the efficiency of biogas production, it also allows for greater flexibility in feedstock formulation and therefore increased profitability. “Working in synergy with the biogas-generating microflora inside the plant, Digest P3 helps utilise feedstock components that were previously inaccessible through digestion,” he says. “The resulting increase in readily available energy and protein for the digester microflora improves efficiency in biogas formation. Not only does this allow for a reduction in the input of feedstocks while maintaining energy output, it allows for greater flexibility in the
type of feedstocks used.” Following a successful Digest P3 laboratory-based trial conducted by Harper Adams University, Alltech has carried out further trial work in 12 commercial AD plants across Europe, and the results showed a significant benefit in Digest P3 inclusion. “Following the use of Digest P3, the results showed significant additional feed breakdown,” explains Mr Brennan. “This resulted in increased biogas production, reduced feed costs and increased electrical output, leading to an uplift in operating profit of around £25,000 per year.” Strathendrick Biogas in
Scotland is one of the first foragefed AD plants in the U.K. to commercially use Digest P3 and director Robert Kennedy has been impressed with the results. “There was a significant improvement in feedstock-tobiogas conversion efficiency following the inclusion of Digest P3 when using higher volumes of grass silage,” says Mr Kennedy. “Grass silage is a more costeffective feedstock, so there are definitely significant benefits to using Digest P3 to increase gas yields.”
Biogest wins further service contracts in the UK Significant interest in Biogest servicing know-how in the UK.
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iogest wins three further contracts for technological and biological services for agricultural biogas
plants. The PowerCompact biogas plant has an electrical capacity of 124 kW and, in addition to its own power requirements, can feed enough electricity into the public grid to power around 370 households. The two further biomethane feed-in plants have a capacity of 450 Nm³/h and 400 Nm³/h respectively. The plants are exclusively operated using organic fertilisers and energy crops which are subsequently used as high-quality ecological manure after processing in the biogas plant. The PowerCompact biogas plants with an electrical capacity of 100 to 300 kW offer advantages in terms of plant operation, energy efficiency and operating safety. There are currently ten PowerCompact biogas plants in the UK, four of which are operated by the OPO (Own Plant Operations) business unit,
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complementing the international portfolio of Biogest’s own plant operations. In this segment the biogas plants are built and financed by Biogest, operated by agricultural partners, and technically and biologically serviced by Biogest. The biomethane feed-in plants offer great potential. Converting biogas into biomethane, which can then be fed into the natural gas grid, is a highly efficient method of converting and supplying power. This allows the efficiency of biogas plants to be almost doubled and, unlike electricity, biomethane can be transported with significantly lower network losses. The EU BIOSURF project is working on the international tradability and certification of biomethane which will offer greater independence from national legislation and consequently enormous opportunities for the economically attractive use of biomethane. The Plant Engineering business unit currently has a total of 25 Biogest biogas plants (of which five are biomethane feed-in systems)
operating or in the start-up phase in the UK. The sustainable Service business unit (technical and biological services) now comprises 19 service contracts and is an essential supplement to the Plant Engineering business unit. The technical services offered by Biogest cover everything from safe commissioning through to regular servicing and plant maintenance. Thanks to our clever replacement parts logistics, including service vehicles, Biogest service personnel can ensure that your biogas plant is always up and running. This optimises availability and minimises downtimes. Biological services support the biogas plant during commissioning and subsequent operations. The experienced team continually monitors the biological processes by ringing into the biogas plant’s central server on a daily basis in order to record performance. Our service package also includes regular plant inspections by our specialists and training customer employees on how to operate their biogas plants.
Biogest is an internationally active biogas plant manufacturer and operator with its headquarters in Austria and subsidiaries in the UK, France, US, Italy, Romania, Serbia and the Czech Republic. More than 130 biogas plant projects generating electricity or biomethane have been completed to date. Our reference plants are located in several European countries and the global market is served by licenced partners. As a renewable source of energy, biogas offers technological, ecological and economic advantages: energy can be generated 365 days a year, at all times of the day and night, and therefore biogas plays an important role in the mix of renewable energy from water, sun and wind. In addition to helping achieve climate protection goals, biogas also helps reduce reliance on energy imports. Decentralised energy generation also guarantees sustainable local development.
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| Energy
Car mirror technology to streamline solar energy production Technology used to develop the world’s first fully plastic automotive mirror is being adapted in South Australia to make solar energy generation more efficient. delaide-based car parts manufacturer Precision Components has partnered with the University of South Australia to today launch a heliostat test bed north of Adelaide. The trial field includes 25 heliostats each measuring 7.2 square metres and a 16-metre-tall concentrated solar photovoltaic (PV) receiver, which can generate about 30 kW of electricity per hour. Heliostats concentrate sunlight onto a tower, and depending on the type of receiver unit, either heat molten salt to generate steam to power turbines to generate electricity or convert sunlight directly into electricity using a high efficiency solar cell receiver. The heliostat innovations hope to deliver more reliable and efficient energy production. It is not the first time the University of South Australia’s Future Industries Institute has partnered with industry to commercialise its world-leading thin film coating technology. The group of researchers partnered with SMR Technologies, a car mirror manufacturer in Adelaide’s southern suburbs, to commercialise the world’s first fully plastic auto mirror in 2012. About 4 million of the mirrors, which are much lighter and do not shatter in a crash unlike their glass counterparts, have since been sold around the globe.
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Lead researcher and Industry Professor at UniSA’s Future Industries Institute, Peter Murphy said the design challenges in developing a heliostat surface that could stand up to a range of environmental factors echoed some of the challenges in designing the car mirror. “Heliostats need to withstand heat, cold, rain, UV light exposure and abrasion by sand, often in harsh, arid environments,” Prof Murphy said. “To be really effective they must have a lifetime of 25 to 30 years and that presents a huge set of challenges at a macro and nano scale. “Our long term research goal is to develop tough, ultra-high reflectivity mirror coatings on polycarbonate to underpin lighter, more efficient heliostats that stay cleaner for longer.” South Australian Premier Jay Weatherill, who officially opened the solar trial field, said the partnership with the university and the new site helped show the state’s leadership in the national transformation to renewable energy technologies. “Working in partnership with Precision Components, a company previously servicing the automotive industry, the two companies demonstrate successful diversification from a manufacturing skill base into other industry sectors,” he said. This next generation solar power technology will be vital to
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the development of renewable power sources in Australia and internationally. The Edinburgh trial field, about 30km north of Adelaide, is the result of three years of research, development and manufacturing of the heliostats following the formation of Heliostat-SA, majority owned by Precision Components, in 2014. Adelaide-based Precision Components has been a leading Australian component manufacturer for the automotive industry for more than two decades. The launch comes at an important time for the company, which is transforming its business following the decline of Australia’s car manufacturing industry. Automotive manufacturing officially ends next week with the closure of Holden’s Elizabeth plant just a few kilometres from the solar field. Precision Components has also partnered with Bustech to form Precision Buses. That joint venture last year secured $2 million in South Australian Government funding to manufacture advanced diesel and electric buses on the same site as the heliostat field. Last year the company and
Heliostat-SA, which shares the premises, manufactured 150 heliostats for a solar project in Yokohama, Japan. “This is another significant step in the diversification strategy we implemented to safeguard the future of the business and to create employment opportunities for South Australians,” Precision Components Director Mat Fitch said. Under the solar trial joint venture, Heliostat-SA designs and manufactures solar energy technologies for both the concentrated solar power and PV tracking industry sectors. While the heliostats at the trial field are made of traditional glass, the researchers are working on adapting South Australian thin film coating technology to produce lightweight and durable polycarbonate mirrors. South Australia leads the nation in the uptake of wind energy and rooftop solar with renewable sources accounting for more than 40 per cent of the electricity generated in the state. The State Government aims to extend this to 50 per cent by 2025.
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| Muck & Slurry
Maximising slurry value Michael A.O’Grady, Sales, Marketing & Business Development Manager, Abbey Machinery. nimals typically only use 15-20% of what they eat. The rest comes out as waste and it needs to be stored and applied to land in an environmentally friendly and efficient-manor as possible. But, slurry as a waste product provides very valuable nutrients that can help to reduce purchased fertiliser burdens on farm.
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Fertiliser value of slurry The value of slurry depends on the current price of chemical fertiliser - Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P) and Potassium (K) and the quantity of chemical fertiliser it replaces. Teagasc (Irelands National Agricultural Research and Advisory body for farmers) estimate the value of slurry (based on March 2017 fertiliser prices) to be approximately €1 per kg N, €2 per
kg P, and €1 per kg K (convert to Sterling for local values against local purchased fertiliser costs). The fertiliser value will depend on the amount of nutrient that is actually available for plant uptake at time of application and weather conditions. The Nitrogen content in slurry exists in the form of ammonium-N (which is readily available for plant uptake) and inorganic compounds (which are less available for plant uptake). Slurry, typically contains 40-60% of the total N content in the form of ammonium-N and the efficiency of recovery of ammonium-N depends on the weather conditions at the time of application. Applying in cool moist weather in spring rather than summer increases the amount of ammonium-N that is captured by the crop and reduces losses of N resulting from ammonia volatilisation. Launching NEW Slurry Management Abbey Machinery’s new ‘Guide to Slurry Management’, involves 6 key steps: 1. Storage & Preparation of Slurry 2. Slurry Transportation 3. Application Technology 4. Environmental Considerations 5. Minimising Compaction 6. Nutrient Management Unveiling New DM Band Spreader Applicator This is a class leading, 7.5 metre Door Mounted Band
Spreader that can be retro-fitted to the rear door of a Slurry Tanker. There are additional support brackets and a welded bracket on the dish end for improved working life. It is mounted close to the slurry tanker for optimum weight transfer to the hitch. Comes complete with a Vogelsang ExaCut distributor to prepare and present the slurry to each of the 40mm pipes. The booms are vertically folding for convenient transportation. The applicator presents the slurry in lines on the soil with the benefit of trapping the ammonia nitrogen below the crop canopy to harness more nitrogen, reduced smell and overall faster crop performance. The value of slurry depends on the current price of chemical fertiliser - Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P) and Potassium (K) and the quantity of chemical fertiliser it replaces Shows in November Abbey have a stand At AgriTechnica in Germany in Hall 27, Stand C56 from 12-18th November and at Agri-Scott on 14th November. For further information contact Michael A.O’Grady, Sales, Marketing & Business Development Manager, Abbey Machinery on 00353-67-26677 or visit www.abbeymachinery or visit their Facebook page.
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| Muck & Slurry
Family run slurry handling business stands out Midland Slurry Systems Limited was formed in 1985 and has grown into one of the most respected companies in its field in the UK, specialising in the supply and maintenance of industrial and agricultural waste-water treatment installations and animal slurry management. e have built up a loyal customer base of circa 300 farms and businesses, covering from the north of the country down to the south coast. Stocking an extensive range of spare parts and fittings to cover all of our installations, we run 3 fully equipped service vans staffed with highly skilled engineers to provide the back-up that is required. Our products are selected only from manufacturers with a worldwide reputation for serviceability and long life, and all are backed by the manufacturers' guarantees. In all cases, our own service provision and pre-arranged maintenance schemes complement the manufacturers' guarantee period. We offer a range of products to suit all requirements, depending on animal numbers and bedding materials. Our slurry separation systems are tailor-made to suit our customers’ requirements. We provide screw press machines and roller brush units, depending on the required duty, in most cases a submersible mixer is added which makes the material more uniform to be presented to the separator. Dirty water systems are one of our bestselling ranges. The pump package comes with all the relevant safety devices to protect the progressive cavity pump and enable it to perform to its optimum level. Float switch and
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timer controlled, this type of system enables the disposal of dirty water on a day to day basis, whilst making better use of storage facilities. We also offer all types of slurry scraper systems. The addition of a chain, rope or hydraulic system to your livestock building enables the animals to stay cleaner and save labour. Sand laden manure systems are one of our specialities, from conveying the materials using auger systems to a full sand reclamation installation; both of which we have installed and are operational on UK dairy farms. Our control panels are designed specifically for each individual requirement using quality
electrical components to control and protect the machines installed. Midland Slurry Systems pride themselves on being one of the only family run slurry handling businesses in the country, with an unbiased view on the best individual components to suit your requirements. From a complete system for two thousand cows, or a for a single pipe fitting, we can cater to your needs. For further information, please contact the office on 01608 664219 or alternatively Giles on 07831 480206 or Ben on 07881 780590. Our website can be found at www.midlandslurrysystems.co.uk
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| Muck & Slurry
Preview launch of a brand new front fill system at Agritechnica With a focus on efficiency, safety and design, the new Front Arm Pump (FAP) from SAMSON AGRO is setting a new standard for front fill systems. y developing this new FAP, SAMSON AGRO is adding a brand new type of machinery to its product range. The FAP is a front-mounted suction arm that is designed to fill the slurry tanker directly from a truck or tanker. Expectations of the new FAP are high, as high reliability and low maintenance costs are definitely in a class of their own when combined with the SAMSON ejector system. Filling starts using a vacuum from the ejector on the tanker, which primes the reliable centrifugal pump on the front fill system. The centrifugal pump then continues the high capacity filling operation without using a vacuum. The FAP system makes it easy to fill the slurry tanker directly from the transport tanker. Driving in headlands and crop damage are reduced significantly, as you drive directly to the transport tanker. The implement on the back of the slurry tanker can also remain in the working position, thereby increasing efficiency and minimising wear.
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SlurryMaster 8000 offers perfect control for the FAP The FAP can be operated very easily via the SlurryMaster 8000. A series of automatic functions protects the system against incorrect use and simplifies the driver's work. The centrifugal pump stops automatically when the tanker is full and the slide valve below the pump closes. A smart timer function can be activated so the arm lowers automatically into the transport position. Unique design The FAP system has been designed with driver comfort and safety in mind. The compact design makes the vehicle highly manoeuvrable. The fill arm is mounted on the right hand side
to ensure that the driver has maximum visibility. The integrated lights are well protected and provide optimal lighting. The fully integrated storage compartment provides fast access to tools and other parts. Integrated mirrors and a camera system are offered as optional accessories. With a net weight of 980 kg, the FAP system is extremely stable. If more weight is required at the front of the tractor, weight plates can be fitted under the base. The FAP can be disassembled on integrated stabilizer feet without the use of tools. With the smallest total depth on the market of only 774 mm at the top and 502 mm at the base, the FAP system from SAMSON AGRO is extremely compact.
November 2017 | Farming Monthly | 37
| Forestry
New report reviews role of trees in flood alleviation Further calls for the inclusion of natural solutions in flood alleviation schemes were made following the severe floods in Cumbria, December 2015. cknowledging ongoing debates around the evidence for tree cover as an effective flood mitigation measure, the UK’s Centre for Ecology & Hydrology today have published results of a systematic review of the current evidence in order to inform policy and planning decisions, and to identify knowledge gaps and areas for priority research. The review, conducted in collaboration with Forest Research, the National Farmers’ Union (NFU), National Trust, Woodland Trust, WWF-UK, Environment Agency, Coed Cymru and Lancaster University Environment Centre, looked specifically at the influence of trees in a catchment on flood peak (the maximum river discharge recorded during a flood event). Based on the 71 studies examined by the authors, there is broad support for the conclusion that increased tree cover in catchments results in decreasing flood peaks, while decreased tree cover results in increasing flood peaks.
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Considering just observational studies (approximately half of the total number of studies), the authors note that the difference between the numbers of studies reporting an influence and those reporting no influence of trees on flood peak becomes less clear. Analysis of the small number of observational studies that differentiate on the basis of flood magnitude suggests that whilst there is strong evidence of an influence during small floods, the majority of observational studies relating to large floods report that trees have no observable influence on flood peak. The authors call for an examination of the role of key factors including those associated with characteristics of the forest, catchment and climate, which might explain the more mixed results from observational studies. There is also a need for more empirical data and improved measurement of high flows, to better quantify the effects of woodland creation and evaluate flood risk model outputs. Lead author, Charlie Stratford, cautions against “the expectation
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that tree planting is the panacea to all flooding and recommends further research to better understand optimal deployment of natural solutions, their likely downstream impacts on flows, and the role they play in an integrated approach to flood risk management.” Dr Stewart Clarke, Freshwater & Estuaries National Specialist, National Trust, said, “This review reinforces the need to consider different options when it comes to land management, and to plan for change. There is no singular method for managing flooding and it is important to think holistically to find practical, sustainable solutions. Natural solutions, including planting trees in upstream catchments, should be considered as one of those options.” Dr David Tickner, Chief Freshwater adviser at WWF-UK said, “Although scientific questions remain, this research suggests that measure to improve the health of our river catchments, specifically maintaining or restoring tree cover, can help to reduce flood risks. “Given that rivers and forests provide a wide range of other
benefit - including improvements to health, water quality and wildlife – WWF calls on UK governments, regulators and water companies to increase investment in “green infrastructure” as a tool for addressing flooding and other challenges.” Martin Rogers, NFU flood management adviser said, “The NFU supports that natural flood management techniques, in the right location, have their place, but as this review outlines they are not the universal panacea and should be used as part of a cohesive and carefully planned package of measures, looking at upstream attenuation and downstream conveyance to address shorter and longer term flood risk. “Natural flood management implementation also requires active and full engagement and agreement with land managers, especially farmers, to ensure schemes can work alongside other land uses, including agriculture and food production.” The report, ‘Do trees in UKrelevant river catchments influence fluvial flood peaks?’ is available for download at http://nora.nerc.ac.uk/id/eprint/517 804
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| Energy
Spaldings Limited Lincoln, Lincolnshire T: 01522 507500 www.spaldings.co.uk
World of Power Buxton, Derbyshire T: 01298 213101 www.worldofpower.co.uk
Lakedale Power Tools Croydon, Dartford & London T: 020 8683 0550 www.lakedalepowertools.co.uk
Ermin Plant (Hire & Services) Ltd Gloucester, Gloucestershire T: 01452 526616 www.erminplant.co.uk
Charles H Hill Ltd Woodhall Spa, Lincolnshire T: 01526 388281 www.charleshhill.co.uk
Mawsley Machinery Brixworth, Northampton T: 01604 880621 https://mawsley.stihl-dealer.co.uk
DM Chainsaws Arundel, West Sussex T: 01243 554065 www.dmchainsaws.co.uk
Davenport Western Yeovil, Somerset T: 01935 425311 www.davenportsaws.co.uk
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| Energy
Pirtek Cambridge Tel: 01223 835222 Pirtek Derby Tel: 01332 205000 Pirtek Harlow Tel: 01279 427300 40 | Farming Monthly | November 2017
Pirtek Luton Pirtek Penrith Pirtek Preston
Tel: 01582 597050 Tel: 01768 210055 Tel: 01772 620111 www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
| Machinery
Farming machinery and techniques to launch at Notts Event Local farmers are looking forward to the return of a popular machinery show where new products, machinery and technology are set to be unveiled. he Midlands Machinery Show takes place on Wednesday 22 and Thursday 23 November at Newark Showground, Nottinghamshire. Around 200 agricultural businesses are exhibiting at the event – organised by the Newark and Nottinghamshire Agricultural Society - which will not only give them the opportunity to discuss advances in their products and services, but also allow farmers to discover how such techniques can help to improve the productivity of their land. Joe Allen from Gainsborough-based Chafer Machinery has exhibited at the event since it was set up four years ago and says it has reaped dividends for the firm, which manufactures specialist spraying equipment. He said: “Midlands Machinery Show is an ideal opportunity for farmers and agricultural businesses to congregate and discuss how the farming industry is faring across the country. “They really benefit from meeting others within their community, seeing new technology and actually being able to spend time talking to other exhibitors about how their machinery and products can benefit their farms.” George Taylor, Midlands Machinery Show manager said: “Technology is advancing at a fast rate within the agricultural industry, and it is
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really important farmers invest their time in attending events, such as the Midlands Machinery Show, to determine how this can be used to improve productivity and efficiency.” As well as new technology being showcased, soil health and drones which can help improve precision farming, are being discussed as part of a series of expert seminars by crop precisionist Hutchinsons. JRH Water Management, which specialises in rain water harvesting and water technology, will be also be holding a professional seminar. Woldmarsh are sponsoring an off-road course where visitors can try out 4 x 4 vehicles being brought in by six dealerships. Joe continued: “Midlands Machinery Show is an event to do business, and I am very much looking forward to this year’s event to showcase our crop spraying equipment, and a selection of chemical and fertiliser applicators, whilst also networking with other farmers from across the region and beyond.” To find out more about how to exhibit your farming business at this year’s Midlands Machinery Show visit www.midlandsmachineryshow.com For regular show updates please follow the show on Twitter @Midsmachinery17 or join the conversation at #MMS2017
November 2017 | Farming Monthly | 41
| Machinery
ZETOR at AGRITECHNICA 2017 2-18 November 2017, Hanover, Hall 7, Stand D38 and Hall 16, Stand E10. gritechnica exhibition, the biggest event of its kind in Europe. Just like two years ago, ZETOR brand is present at this exhibition; this year at two different stands. ZETOR has the main area of about 350 sq. m. in Hall 7, Stand D38, where we are presenting our ZETOR Tractors, which will form the core of our product line offered in the year 2018. Prominently they are PROXIMA models and FORTERRA models, equipped with features meeting the new standards which regulates mainly particulate emissions and safety.
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The comfort of the operator has been significantly improved in both model lines. Furthermore, there is the cab-less (platform) version of PROXIMA equipped with an engine meeting STAGE IIIA emission standard, which has been designed for markets outside of the EU. NEW! This year, we have brought to Hannover for introduction ZETOR “small line” tractors. With these Zetor Tractors, we are entering the segment of tractors below 80 HP. Thus, we have opened the door to new market segments, which can make up as much as 30 % of total sales in some areas. The smaller HP
range tractor is called UTILIX, and the higher HP range tractor is called HORTUS. The ZETOR ''small line'' will be presented in Hannover by HORTUS. That will allow us to attract customers who consider the current MAJOR with the power of 80 HP too big or expensive for their farming needs. Agritechnica is also a good reason for us to reflect on our past couple of years, even, though, the end of this year is not here yet. We will look back at the time to the last Agritechnica show when we have presented at this event the new design concept created by the famous Pininfarina studio. The concept was meant to present our
technical possibilities to the world, mainly the vision of our future direction. Two years have gone and here we are, bringing our first tractor of the new design tractors by the ZETOR brand. It will be our MAJOR HS 80 in Pininfarina Design which will attract the attention of media and the public. Coated in dark red and finished to perfectness by our designers in cooperation with Aufeer Company. The tractor is to be launched next year and gradual implementation of the new design to the remaining ZETOR models shall become an important milestone in the history of the brand.
Camso showcasing its newest rubber tracks and track systems at Agritechnica Camso, formerly Camoplast Solideal, is showcasing its newest rubber tracks and track systems at this year’s Agritechnica show in Hanover, Germany. e’re committed to develop products that will help customers in Europe maximize their work while lowering their cost of operation. We believe our rubber tracks and track systems are one tool in a farmer’s toolbox to reduce the impact of their equipment on the fields. This is one reason why we’re excited about displaying our new rubber tracks and track systems at the largest agricultural tradeshow in Europe,” says Martin Lunkenbein, Service and Aftermarket Sales Executive Director – Agriculture at Camso. Camso has had an established presence in Europe for more than a decade and strengthened its network and expertise with the integration of the Italian Conversion Track Systems manufacturer Tidue in 2013. During Agritechnica, Camso will provide visitors with insights about the impact of tracked solutions on farmer’s operations and yields. The company will highlight its newest additions, such as the Conversion Track System (CTS) High Speed and the new Camso Ag 2500 Tracks Series in booth 03C30. As a preferred supplier of these products among OEMs, Camso’s products will be shown on several vehicles at Agritechnica. “We’re very proud to partner with OEMs, and work with dealers, distributors, and of course the key player in all of this: the farmer,” Lunkenbein says.
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Faster roading speed, more performance Camso CTS High Speed is a unique innovation from Camso that allows tracked harvesting machines to move faster from field to field. The integrated final drive, an industry first, helps match the right gear to the right speed – allowing combines to move faster from field to field – up to 30 km/h. Its suspension, with double oscillating wheels, improves ground contact on uneven surfaces, and improves machine stability and header placement for more efficient harvesting and improved operator comfort. Its large footprint reduces ground pressure by up to 70%. This 100% bolt-on innovation is currently available for John Deere S, T and W Series and New Holland Combines. Expanding the broadest range of tracks in the industry Earlier this year Camso introduced its new AG 2500 Track Series for standard agricultural applications at a competitive price point. Built with the same process and high-quality Camso standards, the Camso AG 2500 Track Series features exclusive endless single-cure technology that ensures high performance and durability. “With an average cost saving of 15 percent per hour of operation, we deliver proven Camso track performance for less money,” said Lunkenbein. The Camso Ag 2500 Tracks Series is part of the broadest range of tracks in the industry and an extension to its current offering. “We believe
in providing tracked solutions for all equipment used in the farming cycle. This also means expanding our product range and offering tracks for tractors running standard ag applications,” said Lunkenbein. The new Camso tracks are available for all friction-drive tractors, including the John Deere 8RT and 9RT tractors as well as the AGCO MT700 and MT800 platforms. Camso will also display the 4500 Tracks Series, designed for performance and reliability in general tillage and row-crop applications and the 6500 Tracks Series, providing unmatched performance and durability in severe applications and conditions. During Agritechnica, the Camso engineering team will share the latest agronomic data from its Profit from the Ground Up program. Camso leverages current agronomic data from this program to improve its products that help minimize soil compaction and improve yield potential. “We look forward to having a dialogue with customers to learn more about their needs and to discuss how we can help them manage their equipment mobility challenges,” Lunkenbein said.
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| Education
Contact your nearest dealer: Agratech NW Ltd Unit 8 Dale Mill Burnley Road East Lancashire BB4 9HU 01706 211399 www.agratech.co.uk
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| Glamping
Robert D Webster Ltd Owstwick, Hull HU12 0LH T: 01964 670251
Goole, N. Humberside DN14 7DZ T: 01430 430624
Driffield, E. Yorkshire YO25 4RF T: 01262 420226 www.robertdwebster.co.uk
Sharnford Tractors Ltd Lutterworth, Leicestershire LE17 5EH T: 01455 209300 www.manitou.co.uk
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| Machinery
John Deere innovations on show at AgriScot John Deere is exhibiting two new 5R and 6R Series tractors and a brand new Gator utility vehicle for the first time at AgriScot 2017 (stand no. 187 in the Lowland Hall) alongside the latest developments in farm connectivity, with the focus on dedicated apps for farmers, contractors, fleet managers and operators. ntroduced for 2017, the compact 5R Series tractors from 90 to 125hp feature a onepiece curved frame design with a low centre of gravity and a turning radius of only 3.75m, even when fitted with a front loader such as the new 543R. Features include front axle suspension and an air suspended seat in the newly designed cab, plus an optional cab suspension system. The range’s Stage IIIB 4.5-litre John Deere PWX diesel-only fourcylinder engine produces 10 extra hp for transport applications. Three transmission options include the new 32/16 Command8, with eight powershiftable gears and an ECO mode enabling a top speed of 40kph at only 1759 engine rpm, plus automatic shifting as standard. With a shipping weight of only 4.3 tonnes, the new 5R Series tractors can lift as much as 4.7 or optionally 5.3 tonnes. For front loader operation, there is a choice of mechanical or new E joysticks, both linked to the tractor seat. In addition, the new 543R front
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loader offers automatic mast and implement latch, a 10 per cent increase in lift capacity, higher breakout force and an increased roll-back angle. John Deere’s new 6250R tractor, featuring the awardwinning CommandPRO joystick and an AutoPowr transmission, develops up to 300hp with Intelligent Power Management. It is fitted as standard with JDLink telematics, including remote display access (RDA) and wireless data transfer (WDT) linked to the MyJohnDeere.com website portal. CommandPRO’s functionality allows the tractor to be controlled from top speed to zero with a simple push or pull of the joystick. Both this and the conventional tractor pedals can be operated at the same time, and there is no need for an external ISOBUS joystick as the driver can also operate the tractor and ISOBUS functions simultaneously. With a very light vehicle weight of 9.3 tonnes, the 6250R delivers more power than any other tractor in this weight class, along with an unrivalled power density of 31kg/hp. The high maximum permissible weight of 15 tonnes
also allows a 5.7 tonne payload, which means the tractor is able to transport heavier loads. The newly styled Gator XUV 865M utility vehicle features the company’s quietest ever cab, more room for both driver and passengers and an extremely efficient heating system, including a windscreen defrost feature. Equipped with an 854cc, 23hp diesel engine, CVT transmission and power steering plus a top speed of 50kph, the XUV 865M offers a tight turning circle and optimal weight distribution for superior off-road performance. For extra versatility, it can be fitted with a wide range of over 90 attachments from snow blades to winches, and has a large 42-litre fuel tank to keep the vehicle running longer between fill-ups. The adjustable driver’s seat can accommodate three people, for off-road use only. The versatile and durable cargo box has a load capacity of 454kg, while towing capacity has been increased by a third to 907kg and total payload capacity is 680kg. The company’s latest work management apps make it very easy to keep track of machinery,
get advice on seed and fertiliser rates or spray requirements and monitor machine productivity by working together with, and being connected to, the dealer, farm adviser and other suppliers. For example, the new MyJobConnect service includes a MyJobsManager app for farm or fleet managers and contractors, and a MyJobs app for operators. There is also an additional app in the MyJobConnect Premium service called MyLogistics, which is an intelligent ag navigation app. Services can be accessed in two ways, either from the office computer or on-the-go using dedicated apps for tablets and smartphones, which allow drivers to view and carry out tasks in real time from their mobile devices. This latest John Deere connectivity package frees up time for farmers and contractors to focus on their core business, and makes the complete work process including job planning, work orders, data recording, customer invoicing and reporting much easier, faster and more efficient.
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| Machinery
CLAAS presents new AXION 800 series tractors Tractors in the AXION 800 series from CLAAS feature a wide range of models and engines from 205 to 295 hp (in accordance with ECE R 120) and are designed for many different applications. LAAS now presents the latest generation of the AXION 800 series with enhanced equipment options and many practical solutions that were initially introduced in the new ARION 600/500 and AXION 900 series. These include the new CEBIS system with colour touch display and CMOTION multifunction control lever, the new CIS+ specification option and air brakes with an air dryer. Three equipment options available for the first time In addition to the proven basic CIS and the new touch-screen CEBIS systems, new AXION 800 models are now available for the first time with CIS+, giving three equipment options. Like CEBIS, the CIS+
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system introduced with the new AXION 900, ARION 600 and ARION 500 tractors is extremely user-friendly, offering a high level of convenience with reduced complexity. The features within CIS+ include the CIS colour display and the proven multifunction armrest with ELECTROPILOT four-way control lever and DRIVESTICK to operate the transmission. New CEBIS system with enhanced convenience The CEBIS system includes the new, high-resolution CEBIS terminal with 12-inch touch display and the tried and tested ergonomic armrest with CMOTION multifunction control lever for convenient operation of all the main functions using the thumb and first two fingers. The armrest now also offers a total of 10 freely
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configurable function buttons. Eight of these buttons are on the multifunction control lever and can be configured, for example, with various ISOBUS functions. The intuitive operating structure is based on the existing CEBIS generation and has been further optimised for touch display use. Features include the quick adjustment facility for frequentlyused tractor functions using DIRECT ACCESS, which is operated simply by tapping the machine silhouette on the CEBIS touch display. When working on uneven terrain, all the settings can still be entered using the familiar rotary/push switch with ESC button. Variable ISO 500-compliant tow hitch support All tractors in the new AXION 800 series have a universal tow hitch support which conforms to ISO 500. This allows problem-free use of the hitches from the new AXION 900 series tractors and other manufacturers with compatible standards. The tow hitch support also comes as standard with a long mounting rail and a slot for traction devices in the drawbar. Up to six different traction devices can therefore be used. In the drawbar versions, holes in the slot allow adjustment of the distance between the rear axle and attachment point, enabling the driver to change the implement attachment point to suit the current job: Pushed in: enhanced driving comfort, e.g. during road transport
with a higher drawbar load as the drawbar load is shifted towards the rear axle Pulled out: reduces the turning radius of the tractor/implement combination, e.g. during field work, by shifting the pivot point backwards The permissible maximum drawbar load of 4.0 t is therefore fully maintained. Air brakes with compressed air dryer The air brakes fitted as standard on all AXION 800 models incorporate an air dryer. Condensation is therefore automatically filtered out of the compressed air before it enters the accumulator, preventing premature corrosion of valves, cylinders and air reservoirs and damage caused by freezing water. This significantly increases the service life and safety of the braking system. LED light package and new wideangle mirror New AXION 800 tractors specified with the CEBIS system are also equipped as standard with LED road lights with signature lighting. This is also available as an option on tractors specified with CIS and CIS+. All models are also fitted as standard with new wide-angle rear-view mirrors, with two independently adjustable fields of view, which provide optimum safety, especially when driving on the road. A leather package for the driver and passenger seat is also available for all models.
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| Machinery
Enhanced protection with New Holland T7 Kubota Care
New Holland Agriculture is introducing a major upgrade to the T7 Long Wheel Base (LWB) range in the shape of a new suspended front axle.
Kubota UK, one of the leading suppliers of agriculture and groundcare machinery solutions, is offering new and current customers the highest levels of machinery repair cost protection and peace of mind through its innovative and enhanced Kubota Care programme. y choosing Kubota Care, customers can rest assured that all major service and maintenance works will be conducted by trained and authorised service engineers from their local Kubota dealer, with only Kubota genuine parts and lubricants utilised, ensuring maximum machinery performance and reliability. Available on all M Series and L Series tractors, the manufacturer supported extended warranty programme ensures Kubota customers can safeguard their tractor against any unforeseen repair costs during the first five years of ownership*. Customers simply decide the service hour usage at the time of purchase, so they only pay for the hours they use. Keith Miller, Service and Training Manager at Kubota UK, said: “Ensuring our machinery performs to the highest levels throughout its lifetime is vitally important and Kubota Care is a great reflection of the belief and confidence we have in the quality and reliability of our products. “In addition to keeping equipment maintained to the highest standard, Kubota Care ensures that the service engineers trained by Kubota are the individuals who will be carrying out all essential and critical maintenance work. This not only helps to maintain the product, but it also allows the dealer and customer to mutually plan for this
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work to occur at the most convenient time, allowing for better utilisation of time resource that increases machine uptime and results in greater productivity. Additionally, the interaction created locally enables a more expansive and communicative relationship between all parties involved.” Kubota Care customers have the option to part exchange their tractor for another machine from the Kubota M and L Series range at any time whilst still reaping all the benefits of the warranty programme. In addition to the service and maintenance benefits, customers who utilise Kubota Care can also make the most of an enhanced machinery resale value during the five-year term, as Kubota Care is transferable with the tractor and its full-service history. Kubota Care should be applied for at the time of purchase (within 30 days) and covers repair costs for an additional 36-month period (after the standard one year and conditional two-year warranty options) for five years, or a maximum of 5,000 hours use. A new simplified pricing structure means it is now even simpler to obtain a quote. The programme sets out to allow Kubota owners to operate their tractors with a known budgeted fixed cost throughout the product work cycle and to ensure the highest level of uptime and productivity.
ew front axle and steering control, precision at high speed The new axle is targeted to ease the operator’s life whilst driving at high speed. The combination of new axle geometry, low friction hub bearings and a new hydraulic steering unit delivers superb feedback and control to the driver. The self-centring characteristic designed into the axle reduces steering corrections to a minimum, especially at high speed, reducing operator fatigue. Upgraded TerraGlideTM front axle suspension featuring ‘Skyhook’ logic delivers stability and improved comfort In combination, the tractor’s front suspension has also undergone a major update. To provide improved performance over the wide variation of front axle loads encountered on a tractor, a new control valve with dual accumulators had been added. In situations where the tractor is carrying a heavy rear implement the new suspension mechanism delivers an 11% improvement compared to the existing design, when measuring chassis vibration. The T7 LWB utilises a suspension concept known as ‘Skyhook’. This active system, normally found on sports cars, aims at maintaining the tractor in a level condition irrespective of external forces. These forces typically would be an implement being raised or lowered, or the tractor braking or accelerating, actions where weight can be transferred on and off the front axle causing instability. The logic of the T7 is to momentarily stiffen the suspension if the operator brakes, accelerates or operates the three point linkage. The upgraded T7 goes as far as weighing the rear implement to determine how stiff to make the suspension to reduce the risk of excessive suspension travel at high speed. An accelerometer unit within the nose of the tractor monitors any chassis movement caused from uneven surfaces and continually adjusts the suspension damping. This advanced control results in a very stable vehicle, for the driver this means improved safety and comfort. Depending on operator preference the suspension can be operated in Soft, Normal or Hard modes with a greater difference being introduced between the settings when compared to the current suspension.
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New CustomSteerTM variable ratio steering, effortless manoeuvring For model year 2018 CustomSteerTM brings a unique variable ratio steering concept to T7 range. The driver is able to vary the number of rotations of the steering wheel it takes to turn the axle hubs from lock to lock. There are three selectable settings ranging from a single rotation of the steering wheel, 1:1, to 2:1 to 3:1. On tractors with the IntelliViewTM IV monitor the driver can select their own ratio and even a different ratio for forward than reverse. Operators will see the benefits of the CustomSteerTM in a wide range of tasks, such as manoeuvring during front end loader work or turning faster with less effort on short headlands whilst ploughing or drilling. Meanwhile, an aggressive 1:1 setting in reverse makes easy work of the steering when reversing with a trailer. For the ultimate control over the steering the ratios can be changed automatically within the headland turn program, HTS II. One ratio for working, one for turning at the headland, one for reversing and all switched automatically. For safety at high speeds any chosen custom ratio is gradually dialled out as speed increases, up to 26kph, slow the tractor down and CustomSteerTM will automatically reengage. Upgraded vehicle capacities for higher payloads In addition to these key updates comes a higher vehicle capacity for the T7 LWB with regards to Gross Vehicle Weight, now as high as 14,000 kg resulting in higher payloads for customers. Updated instruments providing clearer information An updated front instrument cluster, featuring white backlighting and blue needles for the gauges, refreshes the front console. While for the IntelliView IV monitor a new intuitive graphic illustrates the selectable upper or lower engine values that can be chosen for the Auto Command transmission’s working limits. For drivers wishing to monitor closely an operation, a cameraready option allows up to three camera feeds to be connected at the rear of the cab and their images displayed on the IntelliView screen.
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Honda ATV
Is your all-season Honda ATV ready for winter?
The ability to travel over almost any terrain throughout the year makes Honda ATVs essential tools for farms of all types and sizes, but making sure your machine is fully prepared for winter before the cold weather arrives will help to maximise rider safety and reduce the risk of downtime. ince their first use on farms in the mid 1980s, Honda ATVs have enjoyed an unbeatable reputation for reliability. Winter use brings additional challenges for users and machines so a preseason service and extra attention to regular checks are worthwhile. A good starting point is the operator’s manual. This details the full service schedule and essential day-to-day maintenance checks. While Honda strongly advises that an authorised Honda dealer carries out servicing, the daily checks can be done yourself quickly and easily. Many users find dealer servicing very cost-effective as experienced, Honda-trained engineers quickly identify potential faults, reducing the risk of expensive repairs and downtime later. Daily maintenance Oil of the correct specification and quantity is needed by the highly efficient petrol engines to ensure easy starting hot or cold and provide full protection. The oil and filter should be changed at the recommended interval, as specified in the manual. Engine
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coolant should be checked for adequate anti-freeze content. Final drives on driven axles also require the correct oil and checking is quick and easy. Low level could indicate a leaking seal or breather tube and a milky appearance suggests water contamination. Regular visual checks of the axles will reveal any leaks and the rubber breather tubes can also be easily checked for damage. Tyres should be inflated to the correct pressure and frequently checked for damage. Making sure there is adequate tread depth for the worst winter conditions will help prevent the machine and rider becoming stranded when the weather deteriorates, and ensure feed and bedding can be transported to stock in the field. Wiring looms should be checked for damage, and repaired to prevent water ingress. Cracked or broken light lenses should be promptly replaced to prevent failure which could compromise safe operation in the dark. Cracked or broken body panels and mudguards will offer reduced protection from mud and water splashes for both the operator and machine and should be repaired
or replaced. Seat cover splits should be repaired, to prevent the sponge interior becoming wet. Brake and throttle cables should be checked, and replaced immediately if there is damage. Cracked sleeves or damaged seals might let water in, which could freeze and prevent correct operation. Daily use in areas such as farm tracks and field gateways means mud build up is inevitable. Excessive amounts could block cooling radiators causing overheating, or foul moving components causing premature
wear. In colder weather the mud could freeze, restricting suspension, steering or brake movement. Remove it using a pressure washer as often as necessary but avoid directing the jet at cable ends or seals to prevent water entering which could freeze later. Rider safety is always the number one priority and even if on-farm servicing is carried out, it is well worth consulting your local main dealer for advice, and to ensure only correct, genuine replacement parts are fitted.
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Suzuki ATV
Felicity Collins awarded Suzuki Ozark 250 after Houghton Horse Trials success
Felicity was handed the Ozark 250 by local Suzuki dealer, Freestyle Bikes
British Eventing Champion Felicity Collins has been awarded a 12-month loan of a Suzuki Ozark 250 ATV after becoming the new U21 National Champion at the Saracen Horse Feeds Houghton International trials earlier this year. uzuki GB has been supporting the Horse Trials for over 10 years, with previous years’ prize ATVs being awarded to Will Furlong and William Fox-Pitt, following their success in the competition. The Horse Trials, held in Norfolk, are internationally recognised in the Eventing calendar, hosting over 700 horses and more than 350 international competitors. Felicity, who first sat on a pony
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at only 9 days old, is a welldeserved winner. She commented on her prize ATV, “I am really excited to have won the ATV and am looking forward to getting to grips with it! We have a 20-year old ATV already which was dying to be replaced, so I am really looking forward to riding the shiny new Suzuki Ozark around the yard. We are already planning on levelling the school with it very soon.” Felicity comes from a successful Eventing family, with her mother Vicky winning several
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titles in the 90’s resulting in being listed for the 1996 Atlanta Olympics! The family now run a large stable in East Sussex, which is home to nearly ten Eventing horses. The prize handover took place at Felicity’s family stables, which not only houses Felicity’s winning Horse RSH Contend’Or, but also several other prize winners. Suzuki GB’s Head of ATV, George Cheeseman, added “Congratulations to Felicity on winning her event at the Houghton
International Horse Trials. The equestrian industry is very important to Suzuki, so we feel very privileged to be able to support both the Horse Trials, and Felicity Collins. I’m glad to hear that this prize ATV will be put to good use and I’m looking forward to catching up in a couple of months to see how she’s getting on with the Ozark 250. Felicity has evidently put a tremendous amount of time and dedication in to her Eventing career and I wish her the best of luck in the future.”
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Polaris
does all the donkey work
The primary aim of The Donkey Sanctuary on the Isle of Wight is to provide a home for unwanted donkeys. he sanctuary usually has over a hundred animals in their care, about ninety donkeys and twenty-five horses and ponies, all needing a home for various reasons. Loss of grazing, owners situations change, rescue from poor circumstances or simply found abandoned, the donkeys find a new life in the charity’s sixty acres of beautiful countryside. But they still work for their living. The donkeys will often be found enjoying attending a school fair or fete or visiting children’s centres. They have a particular role working with special schools where some of the students’ needs can be met by the interaction and communication with the animals. Caring for the animals involves a lot of work – a donkey will eat a bale of hay a day as a supplement and indoor stables, barns and field shelters have to be tended; then there’s fencing to be done and the onerous task of poo collecting. At the beginning of 2017 the decision was made for the Sanctuary to purchase a Polaris Ranger Diesel UTV to take on all the day-to-day tasks previously carried out by staff using barrows and body power to carry feed and maintain the Sanctuary. The Ranger was supplied by C & O Tractors of Newport who also provided training. “I don’t know what we did without the Polaris,” says Derek Needham, Charity Manager, “it’s in constant use to do everything from maintenance to moving feed and carrying fence posts to towing a poo cleaner in paddocks. We’ve worked it in all conditions, heavy and wet and it takes on everything, putting smiles on faces by cutting down on hours of work while protecting people from the weather. It’s so flexible and very popular with the girls who say it’s ‘female friendly’. It certainly frees people up to work with the public and the animals.” The main site is an education centre and learning resource for schools across the island and those visiting from other parts of the UK. There’s a range of educational
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activities including sessions called ‘classroom in a stable’ with ‘hands on’ practical work combined with looking at the role donkeys have played on the island and the mainland. Less formal visits are available so children can enjoy activities such as ‘treasure Hunting’ and ‘Donkey Spotting. The Polaris Ranger is also so popular with the children The Donkey Sanctuary will soon be running a competition to characterise it and give it a name. 0% finance now available on new Polaris ATVs and UTVs in the UK Polaris is offering interest-free finance on new Polaris Sportsman ATVs, Ranger 4×4 Utility Vehicles, RZRs and Scramblers (excluding Youth) in the UK. The 0% finance scheme, in conjunction with Rural Finance, is available over two years with 2 + 22 monthly payments up to a maximum of 80% of the Recommended Retail Price from October 1st2017 through to 31st December 2017. It’s an exciting opportunity to put a Polaris to work for you at a low monthly cost and see a return on your investment.
Each new Polaris comes with a two year-warranty and CESAR security as standard for peace of mind. Take the Polaris Ranger Diesel for example and you also get the roof and rear panel included in the price. There is also a wide range of other accessories available for Polaris ATVs and UTVs and the finance offer can also include up to £1,000.00 (excluding VAT) on genuine Polaris accessories. Polaris 4 x 4 vehicles offer exceptional off-road ability to meet the challenges of the roughest terrain, with one of the widest ranges to choose from so there is a Polaris to suit everyone’s needs.
Members of the NFU, NFU Scotland and Ulster Farmers Union will additionally benefit from the current 5% discount on selected new Polaris ATVs and utility vehicles. A visit to your nearest Polaris dealer is recommended for full details, any special deals, and to see the extent of the Polaris range and accessories. The availability of the 0% finance through Rural Finance is subject to status; the offers and warranty are subject to terms and conditions. Available in the UK, excluding the Republic of Ireland. Offers end on 31st December 2017. Polaris Britain Ltd. 0800 915 6720 www.polaris-britain.com
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Kawasaki
A brief history of the Kawasaki Mule
Kawasaki’s idea to produce a utility vehicle came in August 1980, not in the boardroom of the head office in Japan but with sketch drawn on a napkin, however it wasn’t until 1987 that that drawling later became the Mule 1000 in America. t was a further four years before it came to the UK and since its creation the Mule has been constantly evolving and developing. Although the Mule has been available in the UK since the early 1990s, not every model has been sold here, so this is the story of the Mule as its evolved globally since those early days. Today in the UK, Kawasaki offers four different Mule models: the Mule SX, Mule SX 4x4, Mule Pro-DX and Mule Pro-DXT and all of them can be traced back to that first Mule - the 2010. The Mule 2010’s first updates came within three years of production, when Kawasaki began to swiftly upgrade the Mule with selectable 2WD or 4WD with a Hi/Lo transmission, to make it the most versatile utility vehicle on the market at the time. The Mule 2010 was followed by the Mule 2020, nicknamed the “turf” Mule because it was a medium-class utility vehicle specially designed for use on golf courses, sporting fields and other places where a soft “footprint” is important. Powered by a fan-cooled singlecylinder engine, it featured a dual-mode differential that could be locked for maximum traction or unlocked to minimize ground disturbance. Turf-type tires and easy to use controls made this vehicle an instant hit. Kawasaki also introduced the Mule 500 to the market in 1991. This personal-sized utility vehicle was compact in size, easy to use and could easily fit in the back of a pick-up truck. Crucially in the story of the Mule, it began a theme of compact, easy to use Mule utility vehicles – a theme that has evolved into the current Mule SX. Only the next year in 1992, Kawasaki updated the Mule with V-twin power, utilizing a larger, more-powerful liquid-cooled 617cc V-
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twin engine inside the Mule 2510 that featured four-wheel drive, heavy-duty carrying capacity and a tilting cargo bed, making it the top-of-theline for the time. The Mule line continued to evolve throughout the 1990s, with more iterations and more specialty models such as the Mule 2520, the next series in the 2500 line with a quietrunning V-twin and lightweight footprint; and the Mule 550, a compact two-seater also with quiet V-twin power. In 2000, Kawasaki introduced the Mule 2510 side-by-side with diesel power. The new unit offered great fuel economy and increased load capacity with its liquid-cooled, three-cylinder, 953cc diesel engine. The Mule 2510 featured dual-mode differential, independent strut-type front suspension and 4WD, making this heavyduty Mule utility vehicle a popular choice on work sites where diesel is the primary fuel. “Looks like a truck. Works like a Mule” was the slogan when Kawasaki introduced the 4WD Mule 3010, Mule 3020 and 2WD Mule 3000 models in 2001. Powered by gutsy, liquidcooled, 617cc V-twin engines coupled to allnew CVTs, they were some of the hardest working and most durable machines Kawasaki ever produced. Radical new pick-up truck styling, improved ergonomics and other design features made this new generation of stylish, hardworking utility vehicles a big hit with everyone from construction workers to farmers and estate managers. The comfortable, convenient, and compact Mule 610 4×4 and 600In came in 2005. The “baby” Mule utility vehicles featured new 401cc engines and new high-volume bodywork, with more rugged suspension, and a number of other features designed to increase their comfort and convenience. The Mule 610 4×4 also featured selectable 2WD/4WD – a class
first – and large 24-inch tires. Both models were still small enough to fit in the bed of a pick-up truck. Kawasaki also introduced “4x4x4” Mule technology in 2005, a new versatile seating positioning offered on multiple Mule units. At first glance the Mule 3010 Trans4x4® looked like any other 3000 Series Mule, but the Trans4x4 model featured two rows of seats, enabling it to accommodate four passengers. Being able to switch between two-passenger and four-passenger modes gave the Trans4x4 much greater flexibility. In four-passenger mode, a family, work crew or group of hunters could be accommodated; in two-passenger mode, cargo space was maximized. In 2010, the Mule 610 4×4 XC (or “Bigfoot” Mule) featured larger, 26-inch tires and 12-inch wheels. Its enhanced off-highway capability and increased ground clearance was complemented by a sporty design and graphics package. Combined with the dependable performance of the Mule 610 4×4, this latest compact utility vehicle opened the door to greater potential for leisure activities. In 2015 Kawasaki revolutionized the market yet again, with the introduction of the Mule PRO-FXT™. Marketed as the King of the Mules, this all-new Mule PRO platform featured highly capable versatility with class-leading torque, making it the fastest and most powerful Mule ever. It also had a new configurable Trans Cab seating system for three or six passengers and a standard Kawasaki three-year limited warranty, along with more comfort and convenience features than ever before.
For more information, or to view the whole utility range from Kawasaki, visit: www.kawasaki.co.uk For more information Day & Coles Ltd Newton Close, Park Farm Ind. Est. Wellingborough NN8 6UW 01933 673900
Southam Agri. Services Southam, Warwickshire CV47 2DH 01926 813426 http://southamagri.co.uk
Contact your nearest dealer
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Can-Am
New 2018 off-road line-up
An important milestone for offroad enthusiasts. RP is launching for Europe its Can-Am ATV line-up meeting the new EU regulations. This extensive lineup offers a vast choice for all user profiles, from utility-oriented consumers to recreational or sport users, and it comes with a major breakthrough in the industry: BRP is the first manufacturer to offer ATV models equipped with the ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) technology. With this new line-up, the Can-Am brand once again demonstrates its ingenuity and leadership on the market. BRP also unveiled four new 50”wide Can-Am Maverick Trail side-byside vehicles at its annual dealer meeting in Dallas, TX. People can now enjoy the Maverick experience while accessing many public trails and tucked-away destinations with ease. With their innovative design and extreme agility, Maverick Trail vehicles enhance the consumer experience and allow people to explore the wild with confidence. The Maverick Trail vehicle is conceived to bring one of the best trail experiences to people with its bold Can-Am Maverick X3 heritage and its ingenious convenience features. Every feature is purposebuilt to maximize consumer comfort, vehicle stability, and handling – a must for people who are looking for a full day of adventures. Bernard Guy senior vice president, global product strategy at BRP, says, “The Can-Am Maverick Trail line-up introduces our incredible X3 pedigree to trail exploration. People love riding trails because it’s an adventurous escape into nature to discover new destinations with friends, and these
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ingenious machines are built to maximize the user experience in every way.” The fun doesn’t stop on the trail, though, as BRP also introduced a new technical crawling-specific model for 2018 – the 172hp Can-Am Maverick X3 X rc TURBO R. Rugged crawling is extremely popular (and growing), and BRP went to the rocks to gain real-world insight from owners before finalizing the design. One critical takeaway for the best possible user experience was the need for a fully-lockable front differential. In response, the CanAm team created a technology
called Smart-Lok™*, which is an ingenious fully-lockable on-the-fly front differential with electronicallycontrolled automatic modes. That smart technology enhances the riding experience and amounts to traction in extreme conditions. The Maverick X3 X rc model is specifically designed for maximum manoeuvrability even at low speeds with a high ground clearance and large, specialized tires. It also comes loaded with features for maximum protection including rock sliders, front and rear suspension protectors, and a front differential guard for enhanced defence against
harsh terrain and rocks. On the utility side of the line-up, BRP introduced a new specialty package to its Can-Am Traxter model family. The Traxter X mr HD10 is a mud-ready vehicle that’s built to tackle grimy conditions with ease. It also has a Smart-Lok front differential, and along with other tough and clever elements, is built from the ground up so people can conquer harsh environments. For additional information and technical specs on these new models, visit www.CanAmOffRoad.com
Contact your local dealer P.R. Roberts Drws Y Nant Boudan Pwlleli Gwynedd LL53 8UY T: 01758 720 212 www.prrobertsagricultural.co.uk
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R.W. Crawford Little Hook Farm Hook Lane, Charing Ashford, Kent TN27 0AN T: 01233 714 123 www.rwcrawford.co.uk
Farm & Forestry Equipment 44 Stuart Street Ardersier, Inverness Inverness-shire IV2 7RS T: 01667 462 608 www.ffe.co.uk
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| Motors
New Mercedes Benz X-Class prices & specifications announced
The new Mercedes-Benz X-Class is available to purchase from £27,310 excl. VAT, with first deliveries for vehicles ordered now expected in January 2018.
ll UK vehicles are doublecab, with 4MATIC selectable all-wheel drive and low-range, drive selection mode, with double wishbone front suspension, and multi-link rear suspension, all as standard. Customers can choose from three distrinct model lines to suit different lifestyles and work environments: the PURE basic variant for classic robust use, PROGRESSIVE for higher requirements in terms of quality feel and comfort, and POWER as the high-end variant for urban lifestyles. Engines and transmissions The X-Class is initially offered with a choice of two engines**: the X 220 d 4MATIC 4-cylinder 2.3l diesel with common-rail and turbocharger, offering 163hp (120kW), or the X 250 d 4MATIC 4cylinder 2.3l diesel with commonrail and twin-stage turbocharger, offering 190hp (140kW). The X 220 d 4MATIC comes with a six-speed manual transmission in a choice of PURE or PROGRESSIVE model lines. The X 250 d 4MATIC is available in all three model lines: PURE, PROGRESSIVE and POWER, with a seven-speed automatic gearbox available. Safety as standard Like all Mercedes-Benz
PROGRESSIVE The mid-level X-Class, which is £1,200 excl. VAT above the PURE model, is offered with a choice of either the 220 d 4MATIC engine, or the uprated 250 d 4MATIC engine. The PROGRESSIVE model line also offers painted bumpers with a simulated under guard in matt black; aluminium door sills featuring ‘Mercedes-Benz’ lettering; chrome door handles; load securing rail system; heated exterior mirrors; and a radiator grille with iridium silver matt finish. Inside, the PROGRESSIVE model comes with black fabric upholstery and an aluminium trim, with automatic dimming interior mirror with integrated compass function, illuminated sun visors, lighting for the front footwell and exit lamps, and chrome air vents. X-Class PROGRESSIVE models are offered with 17-inch six-twinspoke light-alloy wheels in vanadium silver as standard. POWER The high-level X-Class, which is £3,500 excl. VAT above the PROGRESSIVE model, is offered in conjunction with the 250 d 4MATIC engine only, and features painted bumpers with simulated under guard in chrome; a rear bumper in chrome with integrated step; fog lights with chrome surround; shoulder line trim strips in chrome; LED high-performance headlights with cleaning system;
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vehicles, the X-Class stands out for its exemplary passive and active safety equipment. As standard, the X-Class offers: • driver and passenger airbags and thorax bags • window bags on the A-D pillar • driver knee bag • Active Brake Assist (radarbased autonomous emergency braking) • Lane Keeping Assist • Traffic Sign Assist • Hill Start Assist • Reversing Camera • Anti-theft protection package • ECO start/stop function • ESP® (Trailer Stability Assist can be added as an option) PURE The entry-level X-Class PURE model is only available with the six-speed manual transmission 220 d 4MATIC engine, and offers a rear bumper with integrated step, halogen headlights and a radiator grille with matt black finish. Inside, the PURE model offers a manually adjustable driver and passenger seat in Tunja black fabric upholstery, with a large storage compartment in the centre console, incorporating an armrest and cupholder. The model also offers semi-automatic airconditioning with high gloss black details in the air vents. X-Class PURE models are offered with 17-inch steel wheels as standard.
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LED tail lights; electrically folding exterior mirrors; and KEYLESS GO, all as standard. Inside, the POWER line comes with eight-way electrically adjustable driver and front passenger seats as standard, with ARTICO leather and DINAMICA microfiber upholstery, with an ARTICO leather dashboard with topstitching, complimented by a black, high-gloss interior trim. X-Class POWER models are offered with 18-inch six-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels in himalaya grey, as standard. A differential lock for the rear axle to enhance off-roading capabilities in mud, sand or snow is available for £495 excl. VAT, while increased ground clearance by 20mm can be added for £220 excl. VAT. With three standard non-metalic paint choices (danakil red, chisana white and granite green), metallic paint can be added for £510 excl. VAT, with a choice of kabora black, axinit bronze, cavansite blue, bering white, rock grey and diamond silver. The X-Class is sold exclusively via the Mercedes-Benz Vans nationwide Dealer Network. For more informantion about the Network, or about the X-Class please visit: www.MBVans.co.uk
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| Motors
MG breaks new ground with 7 year warranty MG Motor UK has today announced the introduction of a full 7 year warranty on its brand-new Compact-SUV, the MG ZS. Completely transferable to any new owner before the 7 year/80,000-mile limit is reached; the highly competitive package also guarantees any genuine replacement MG parts for the remainder of the agreement. he 7 year/80,000mile warranty is an extension of the manufacturer warranty and gives customers complete peace of mind. Like the MG3 and MG GS, the MG ZS also comes with the option of a six-year anti-perforation warranty covering against corrosion.
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MG Motor UK believes so strongly in the quality of the new MG ZS that it is backing the fantastic warranty itself Drivers can be confident that the increased warranty does not diminish the level of cover
provided and is not an insurancebased product. MG Motor UK believes so strongly in the quality of the new MG ZS that it is backing the fantastic warranty itself. The brand cares about giving customers top-quality cars and top-quality aftercare; the 7 year/80,000-mile warranty will provide customers with the comfort that the manufacturer will look after them and their car should anything go wrong. Matthew Cheyne, Head of Sales and Marketing at MG Motor UK, said: “This is MG putting its money where its mouth is. With the introduction of a 7 year warranty, we are making a clear statement of intent about the quality of our design, engineering and manufacturing. Our goal is to
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deliver hassle-free motoring in stylish cars that stand up to the toughest of challenges. Benefiting from global design expertise, but reengineered specifically for UK roads, we are confident that the MG ZS will prove exceptionally popular. The 7 year warranty makes it even more compelling.” The MG 7 year warranty will be available on all three variants of
the new MG ZS – Explore, Excite, Exclusive – as standard. Available in dealerships from 1st November 2017, the MG ZS will also come with 0% finance and a low monthly payment of just £199 for the top of the range Exclusive manual model. The MG ZS range starts from just £12,495, with both manual and automatic gearbox petrol options.
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The new Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio The Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio, the first Quadrifoglio SUV, is set to become the new benchmark in the premium compact SUV segment. ith its aweinspiring design, performance and technology, the Stelvio Quadrifoglio is the "fastest SUV around the circuit", having clocked the new record for its class on the iconic Nürburgring: 7 minutes 51.7 seconds. 510hp 2.9-litre V6 Bi-Turbo petrol engine The Stelvio Quadrifoglio is equipped with the exclusive aluminium 2.9-litre V6 Bi-Turbo petrol engine, developed with inputs and engineering know-how from Ferrari technologies. It delivers maximum power of 510hp at 6,500rpm and generates a maximum torque of 600Nm from 2,500 to 5,000rpm and is teamed with the specifically calibrated eight-speed automatic transmission, that shifts gear in just 150milliseconds in Race mode. The Stelvio Quadrifoglio can accelerate from zero to 62mph in just 3.8 seconds, and on to a best-in-class top speed of 176mph. The Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio is also incredibly efficient in terms of emissions and fuel consumption, thanks to its electronically controlled cylinder deactivation system and the "sailing" function, available in Advanced Efficiency mode. To maximise the driving experience, Stelvio Quadrifoglio is also
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equipped as standard with onepiece aluminium paddle shifters, integrated into the steering column. Innovative Q4 all-wheel drive system combined with AlfaTM Active Torque Vectoring For the first time, the 510hp 2.9 V6 Bi-Turbo petrol engine is combined with the innovative Q4 all-wheel drive system, which offers a potent combination of unbeatable performance, traction, driving pleasure and safety in all situations. In normal conditions, the Q4 system transfers 100 percent of the torque to the rear axle. As the wheels approach their grip limit, the system transmits up to 50 percent of the torque to the front axle in real time, by means of a transfer case. The Stelvio Quadrifoglio holds two best-in-class titles which make it the highest-performing SUV in its segment: with a kerb weight of 1,830kg, the model boasts the best power to weight ratio in its category at 3.6 hp/kg and the best power density at 176 hp/l. The power-to-weight ratio was delivered with the aid of ultralightweight materials such as carbon fibre for the driveshaft and aluminium for the engine, suspensions, brakes, doors, wheel-arches and bonnet. Due to the perfect weight distribution between the two axles, achieved by tweaking the SUV's layout and arranging the heavier
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elements in the most central position possible, the Quadrifoglio’s light weight does not adversely affect the car’s torsional rigidity. It remains durable, with low noise levels and exceptional handling, even under extreme stresses. Suspension system with exclusive AlfaLinkTM technology and the category's most direct steering Up front, the Stelvio Quadrifoglio has a double wishbone system with semi-virtual steering axis, to optimise bump filtration and ensure quick, precise responses to steering inputs. By keeping the contact patch of the tyre constant when cornering, this exclusive Alfa Romeo set-up affords outstanding levels of lateral grip. But regardless of speed and conditions, the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio always delivers a natural, instinctive drive. The rear suspension uses a four-and-a-half link Multilink system – patented by Alfa Romeo – to deliver a winning combination of performance, driving pleasure and comfort. An electronically controlled damping system adapts to driving conditions instantly and enables drivers to opt for performance-biased or comfortoriented handling. Alfa Active Suspension controls the suspensions and shock absorbers continuously to reduce movement of the body of the car in
all driving conditions. It constantly interacts with the CDC and Alfa DNA Pro and calibrates its actions to suit the driving mode selected, delivering unrivalled comfort and handling. In any situation and at all speeds, driving the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio has the most direct steering ratio on the market (12.1), with a natural and instinctive feel. Bespoke interior with AlfaTM Connect 3D infotainment system with Apple Car Play and Android Auto The finest expression of Italian design, the interior of the Stelvio Quadrifoglio has been tailored like a bespoke suit with painstaking craftsmanship and use of premium materials, including carbon fibre, leather and Alcantara. The centre of the dashboard is dominated by the new 8.8-inch AlfaTM Connect infotainment system - with 3D navigation. It incorporates Apple CarPlay and Android AutoTM to replicate the smartphone environment on the on-board display, for constantly connected, safe, user-friendly life at the wheel. The Stelvio Quadrifoglio will arrive in the UK in summer 2018, with pricing and specification to be confirmed nearer the time. To find out more about the Alfa Romeo range, visit www.alfaromeo.co.uk or to locate your nearest Alfa Romeo dealer visit www.alfaromeo.co.uk/find-a-dealer
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November 2017 | Farming Monthly | 63