October 2013 Farming Monthly by Farming Monthly Ltd

Farming

MONTHLY National

October 2013

Inside this issue...

Farm Energy Why invest in wind?

Fencing Maintain your boundaries

Tillage A look back on the show

Show Previews UK Grain, Agritechnica

NEW & USED TRACTORS & EQUIPMENT

Combines CaseIH 9120 with 35’ header & trailer, 2009, 1082 hours, Full GPS. Auto Steering & Mapping, 876 Rotor hours. CaseIH 9230 with 35’ header & trailer, 2012, 175 Rotor hours, Pro 700 screen, Air kit, CaseIH Warranty for 2013 season & subsidised CaseIH finance subject to terms & conditions. CaseIH 5130 with 20’ Vario header, CaseIH Warranty, CaseIH subsidised finance available subject to terms & conditions. CaseIH 2388 c/w 24’ header, 2007, 920 hours, RDS Yield Mapping, immaculate condition. CaseIH 2166, 18’ header / trolly, arriving soon. John Deere 1177, 16’ header & trailer, chopper & spreader, 5 walker machine ready to go. John Deere 9780 CTS Hillmaster, 2002, 22’ header & trolly, chopper & Chaff spreaders. New Holland TC56 c/w 15’ header / trolly, chopper, 2082 hours. New Holland CSX 7080 c/w 20’ header / trolly, approx 800 hours. Quantum 65c two wheel drive, 2010, 3771 hours, front weights. Quantum 65c two wheel drive, 2010, 2385 hours, front weights. JXU 75 4wd. 2012, 590 hours, 16.9 x 34 tyres, 40kph. weights. JX95 4wd. 1690 hours, 2008, 16.9 x 34 tyres, JX90 c/w Quicke loader, 2009, 1300 hours, 16.9 x 34 hours. CS94 c/w Quicke loader, 2002, 3545 hours, 16.9 x 34 tyres, one owner. NEW Farmall 55 two wheel drive, Roll bar, CaseIH Finance Package. NEW JXU105 4wd 24x24 Power Shuttle & PowerShift, 540/1000 pto.16.9 x 34 tyres, air seat, air conditioned cab, twin assistor rams, front mudguards & weights. CaseIH Finance Package. Maxxum 125 Suspension c/w LRZ loader, 2009, 2920 hours. Maxxum 125 EP c/w Quicke loader, 2012, low hours. Maxxum 125 c/w Loader, 2011, 1536 hours. Maxxum 140 Suspension 40kph. 2012, 338 hours, 18.4 x 38 tyres. Maxxum 140 Suspension 40kph. Front Linkage, 2010, 1400 hours. NEW Maxxum 125 Suspension, boosts to 165hp. 40kph. NEW Maxxum 110 EP Cab Suspension3 speed PTO. large hyd. pump. CaseIH Subsidised Finance package subject to terms & conditions. NEW Maxxum 115 EP Cab Suspension3 speed PTO. large hyd. pump. CaseIH Subsidised Finance package subject to terms & conditions. NEW Maxxum 125 EP. 17x16 gearbox, Suspension, 540/1000 pto. air conditioned cab, 520/70 x 38 tyres, boosts to 165hp. CVX140 Suspension, 2008, 3447 hours, 460/85 x 38 tyres. CVX150 Suspension, 2009, 2900 hours, 650/65 x 38 tyres. CVX150 Suspension, 2007, 4143 hours, 20.8 x 42 tyres. CVX1155 Suspension, 2004, 3338 hours, 460/85 x 38 tyres. CVX160 Suspension, 2009, 3568 hours, Front Linkage, 50kph. CVX160 Suspension, 2009, 5210 hours, Front Linkage. CVX175 Suspension, 2009, 2578 hours, 50kph. trailer air brakes. CVX195 Suspension, 2009, 4297 hours, 650/65 x 42 tyres. Puma 125 Suspension c/w LRX150 loader, 2011, 2423 hours. Puma 140 MC, 2010, 553 hours, Pro 300 Screen, 3 spd.pto. Puma 140 Semi Powershift, 2011, 570 hours, 40kph. Puma 140 Powershift, suspension, 2010, 700 hours, 40kph. Puma 145 EP. 2012, 661 hours, 18.4 x 38 tyres, 40kph. trailer air brakes. Puma 155 MC 2010, 1650 hours, 650/65 x 42 tyres, 50kph. Puma 155 MC 2009, 3370 hours, 50kph. trailer air brakes. Puma 155 New type MultiController, 2010, 1635 hours. Puma 155 2009, 2611 hours, Powershift. Puma 155 PowerShift, 2009, 3457 hours, 650/65 x 38 tyres.

controls, hydraulic roller. McConnel PA55 Righthand, 1.2m head, switch box control, linkage mounted. Grass Cutters New McConnel Merlin Extreme, very heavy duty 2.5m flail c/w Roller, front or rear mount. Votex front mounted hydraulic shift 1.2m heavy duty flail mower. Ploughs Gregoire Besson 7 furrow plough ( 1+6 ) Gregoire Besson 12 Furrow Semi Mounted Reversible plough. Discs & Cultivators Simba Solo 3.8m 9 leg DD packer, 2007, good discs. Simba 23c Discs, Hydraulic front gang adjust, rear drawbar & pipes. Cousins Type 28 Cultivator Press, 2007, Tines - Levelling Board Press Rings, little used. Roller - 6m folding with breaker rings. Demo McConnel 3m Discaerator, 7 leg, hydraulic legs. Vaderstad Carrier CR300, 2007, Linkage mounted, weights. Vaderstad Carrier CR300, 2004, Linkage mounted, weights. McConnel 3m Discearator, trip legs, 2009. Quivogne 4 metre Tinemaster, Terracast Seeder. Quivogne 4.8 metre Tinemaster, Terracast V2 seeder. DRILLS Kverneland TS400 tine drill, following harrow, 2002. Vaderstad Concorde NZC 6 metre drill, Accord metering. Vicon Greenland 6.6m air drill. Trailers Western Abbi 1000 litre Bowser. very clean. Richard Western 10 ton grain trailer with chute, very straight. A S Marston 11 ton grain trailer with chute. A S Marston ACE 14 ton grain with hydraulic door, air brakes, 2010. A S Marston 12 ton Dropside. Kerb carrying trailer, hardly used. Weeks 3 ton drop side steel trailer. Henton 10 ton Sileage with grain chute. Excavators & Loading Shovels Komatsu PC45, 2008, 2612 hours, 4 buckets, rubber tracks, piped, first used 2010. Case CX130, year 2000, air conditioned cab, breaker pipes, good tracks, 6’ bucket. Hitachi Zaxis 210 LC-3, 2010, 938 hours, reversing camera, quick hitch. JCB 8055 ZTS 2010, 1600 hours, 4 buckets, rubber tracks, piped. JCB 8035 ZTS 2007, 1750 hours, rubber tracks, breaker pipes, ditching bucket. JCB Micro 8008, roll bar, adjustable tracks, buckets, 1300 hours, breaker lines. JCB 2cx StreetMaster c/w buckets & breaker, 2006. JCB 411 HT Loading Shovel, air conditioned, reversing camera, genuine 930 hours, ex Water Authority. Kramer Allrad 320 c/w bucket, Power Shuttle, 6600 hours. Telescopic Handlers & Forklifts JCB 525-67 Farm Special Plus, one owner. JCB 526 - 56 Agri PowerShift, 2009, 2500 hours, Q fit carriage, air conditioned cab. JCB 528-70 Telescopic, year 2000, 2160 hours, PowerShuttle, Ex Water Authority. JCB 535-95 PowerShift, 2008, 1225 hours, reversing camera, hydraulic latching. Manitou 420 Buggiescopic - choice of 1994, 2001, 2007 models. JCB 926 masted forklift, cab, showing 3142 hours.

Puma 160 Suspension 50kph. 2012, 560 hours. Puma 165 Suspension 50kph. trailer air brakes, 2010, 715 hours. Puma 165 + Quicke Q75 Soft ride loader, 2010, 2086 hours. Puma 180 Suspension, 2012, 560 hours, 650/65 x 42 tyres, 50kph. Puma 195 MultiController, 2008, 976 hours, AFS Pro 200 screen. Puma 210, 2012, 629 hours, 50kph. 650/65 x 42 tyres, weights. Puma 210, 2010, 4183 hours, Front Linkage, 620/70 x 42 tyres. Puma CVX 160 Suspension 50kph. trailer air brakes, 2012, 272 hours. Puma CVX 165 F/Linkage, 50kph. 2010, 1800 hours, 580/70 x 42 tyres. Puma CVX 180 Suspension 50kph. Front Linkage, 2010, 2357 hours. Puma CVX 195 Full Accuguide 2010, 4770 hours, 50kph. trailer air brakes. Puma CVX 210, Full Accuguide, 2011, 3378 hours, 710/70 x 38 tyres. Puma CVX 225 F/Linkage, trailer air brakes, 2010, 785 hours. Magnum 225 Suspension, 2007, 2361 hours, 50kph. Magnum 230, 2003, 5120 hours, 650/85 x 38 tyres, front weights. Magnum 310 Suspension 40kph + Creep gears, 2010, 1255 hours. Magnum 310 Suspension 40kph + Creep gears, 2010, 1480 hours. Magnum 310 FULL GPS, 2011, 2255 hours, 710/70 x 42 tyres. Magnum 310 Suspension, 2010, 2632 hours, 800/70 x 38 tyres. Magnum 340 Suspension 50kph. weights, 2011, 507 hours. NEW Magnum 340 Anniversary model, Silver & Red livery. Ford / New Holland TC27 compact c/w loader, roll bar, 2002, 1630 hours. TD5050 4wd. 90hp. 2009, 1134 hours, 16.9 x 34 tyres. TD75 4wd. 2003, 4238 hours, air cond.cab, 12x12 Shuttle. TL80 two wheel drive, 12x12 Shuttle, 2002, 5190 hours, weights. TL90 4wd Power Shuttle, 2003, 5260 hours, 16.9 x 34 tyres. TL90 4wd 20x12 Creep gearbox, Front Linkage, 2006, 4663 hours. TSA100 4wd. 40kph. Row Crop Wheels, 2007, 3845 hours. TM175 Suspension Powershift 40kph 2005, 5900 hours. T6010 4wd 24x24 PowerShuttle, 2008, 1845 hours, air cond.cab. T6070 Range Command 40kph. 2010, 1335 hours. T7040 Power Command, 2008, 5800 hours, 50kph & Creep, F/Linkage. T7060 c/w Front Linkage, 2008, 3800 hours. Massey Ferguson 4455 Shuttle 12x12, 3534 hours, air cond.cab, turf or ag tyres. 6455 Dyna 6, Front Linkage, 2006, 823 hours, 100hp. 6490 Dyna 6 Suspension, weights, 2008, 2696 hours, 170hp. 399 4wd 12x12 Hi-Line, 5200 hours, 16.9 x 38 tyres. John Deere 5620 PowerQuad 4wd. 2007, 1430 hours, Front Linkage & PTO. 6320 Front Linkage, 2004, 4320 hours, 18.4 x 38 tyres. 7530 TLS PowerQuad Premium 50kph. 2007, 1930 hours. Other Makes Claas Ares 826RZ, F/Linkage, 2006, 2347 hours, 20.8 x 38 tyres. Deutz Agrotron M620 Suspension 50kph + Creep, 166hp. Kubota ME9000 4wd. 2005, only 200 hours, Turf tyres. Kubota ME5700 4wd c/w Quicke loader, 2004, only 1516 hours. Renault Ceres 436RX c/w loader, Shuttle gearbox, 2003. Valtra M150 Suspension 40kph. 1810 hours, F/Linkage. Hedgecutters & Mowers McConnel PA5455 linkage mounted, XTC controls, 2012. McConnel PA6570T Revolution Controls, EDS. linkage mounted, 1.5m head. McConnel PA6570T Revolution Controls, EDS. linkage mounted, hydraulic roller. McConnel PA6570T Linkage mounted, Revolution Controls, 2011, 400 hours. McConnel 6570T Linkage Mounted, 2011, 428 hours, Revolution

Photographs on our web site : www.startintractors.co.uk Only to be sold after viewing, no guarantee given. E&OE All prices Ex VAT

Many more tractors & equipment for sale:

www.startintractors.co.uk Finance offered subject to terms & conditions

Contact a local operator:

Cambridge: Swansea: Penrith:

01223 835222 01792 310031 01768 210055

Contents

October 2013

22 50

Features

Regulars

11 15 34 36 39 42 48 50

06 14 18 20 58 60

Security Secure your farm and belongings

Fencing Maintain your boundaries

Fuels Storage solutions

Sheep Sector news

Diet Feeders Machinery news

Grain UK Grain & grain storage

Buildings

News All the latest need to know commentary

Forestry Latest forestry industry news

Education Developing your skills in farming

Energy Focus on WInd

ATV The essential workhorse round-up

Motors Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new on the road?

NEXT MONTH

Latest product news

Farm Finance

Agritechnica News and show preview We welcome feedback and encourage readers to air their views. Have an opinion on a story or something you want to get off your chest? Write to us at the address below or email letters@farmingmonthly.com Whilst every attempt is made to ensure accuracy, the opinions expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of the Editor. The Editor also reserves the right to alter or edit material as necessary and no responsibility is accepted for inaccuracies. Full copyright applies. All rights reserved 2013.

Andrew Poulton EDITOR

Connect with us: Published in the UK by Farming Monthly Ltd, 15-17 Dugdale Street, Nuneaton, Warwickshire CV11 5QJ Tel: +44 (0) 2476 353537 Fax: +44 (0) 2476 353571 Editor Andrew Poulton Editorial Assistant editorial@farmingmonthly.com Advertising Director Shona Beedham s.beedham@farmingmonthly.com Senior Advertising Sales Jenny Tranter j.tranter@farmingmonthly.com Accounts Manager Cheryl Arnold c.arnold@farmingmonthly.com Production studio@farmingmonthly.com Subscriptions subscriptions@farmingmonthly.com For editorial and general enquiries or to advertise please call Tel: +44 (0) 2476 353537 or email sales@farmingmonthly.com

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| News

MPs’ rural broadband report confirms CLA’s worst fears of tech-free countryside zones The report on rural broadband delivery by the Commons’ Public Accounts Select Committee confirms that the current system is a flop and there is no chance of meeting the 2015 roll-out deadline set by the Government. LA Vice-President Ross Murray said: “For more than 10 years, the CLA has been campaigning on the need for comprehensive, affordable and effective broadband throughout the countryside. And, yet, many rural areas are still in the technological Dark Ages. “The report by this influential Select Committee backs our long-

held view that the system put in place by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) is a failure.” The CLA Vice-President said he was very concerned about the total reliance on British Telecom. Mr Murray said: “To have British Telecom as the only surviving bidder in the procurement process defeats the objective of a

competitive system. “Although DCMS says the process is fair and transparent, it simply has not worked. The fact the Government will not be able to meet its self-imposed deadlines is letting down those who live and work in rural areas where broadband is essential. “And it is not only superfast broadband that is a problem.

Mobile phone coverage remains a major issue for many in the rural economy and is equally vital. “There will still be many rural areas with poor mobile reception which will get no help despite the Government’s Mobile Infrastructure Project (MIP) to identify and fix 1,000 areas of the country with no mobile signal.”

AWB remains in Wales for now The Farmers' Union of Wales has reminded farmers that although the Agricultural Wages (England and Wales) Order 2012 will be revoked from next week it will be retained in Wales for the time being. he Welsh Government Agriculture Sector (Wales) Bill, passed on July 17, "aims to retain the current statutory regime in Wales" that ceases to exist in England on Tuesday October 1. The Bill's main objective is to "support the functioning of the sector and facilitate the development, enhancement and

retention of key skills necessary for the future prosperity of agriculture in Wales". However, the Attorney General has referred it to the Supreme Court as he is not convinced its provisions are within the legislative competence of the National Assembly. As a result, the current arrangements will be continued in Wales until the Supreme Court

06 | Farming Monthly | October 2013

judgement. "Farmers employing staff need to be aware of this and ensure that they continue to follow the provisions of the Order in Wales," said FUW agricultural training and education committee chairman Alun Edwards. Pay rates and other conditions stipulated by the 2012 Order will continue to apply in Wales. The

only exception will be the Grade 1 workers’ rate, currently at £6.21 per hour, which will increase to the equivalent of the new National Minimum Wage rate of £6.31 on October 1. Further information can be obtained by e-mailing the Welsh Government's sustainable land management branch at: SLMenquiries@wales.gsi.gov.uk

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| News

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October 2013 | Farming Monthly | 07

| News

Prestigious scientific award for Cheshire sheep vet Chris Lewis was announced as the recipient of the British Veterinary Association’s most prestigious scientific award at its Members’ Day on 26th September for his exemplary service to the veterinary profession and, in particular, the sheep industry throughout an ongoing, active career of 50 years. he Dalrymple-Champneys Cup and Medal, awarded to mark and recognise work of outstanding merit, were presented to Mr Lewis during the Awards Ceremony at the BVA Members’ Day in Cardiff. Since graduating from the Royal Veterinary College in 1963 Mr Lewis’s career has encompassed a variety of sectors, including private practice, pharmaceutical industry, Veterinary Investigation Service (now AHVLA), scientific research and publications, education and political endeavours. His enduring talent has been in presenting the common-sense voice of practical and scientific knowledge, providing invaluable advice to MAFF (now Defra) stakeholder groups during the foot-andmouth disease (FMD) outbreaks of 2001 and 2007, and the bluetongue outbreak 2007-2009.

“I was utterly surprised and not a little intimidated to hear that I had been given this award” His apparently limitless energy and unquenchable enthusiasm for sheep veterinary matters has continued to provide inspiration to colleagues in the UK and worldwide. In his various professional roles Mr Lewis has provided invaluable advice to a huge number of

08 | Farming Monthly | October 2013

general practitioners and the farming fraternity. Chris Lewis was awarded Honorary Life Membership of the Sheep Veterinary Society in 1999, having previously served as Honorary Secretary and President; and he has continued to represent the society on numerous occasions with very significant contributions to the FMD outbreak in 2001. It is acknowledged that the advice he provided contributed significantly to controlling this major disease outbreak, particularly in the field of biosecurity. Subsequently he acted as an advisor in the 2007 FMD outbreak and in Defra’s bluetongue vaccination strategy group, being a major contributor to the effective control of this disease. An internationally renowned member of the veterinary community, Mr Lewis is a founder diplomate of the European College of Small Ruminant Health Management, and is also the inaugural secretary of the recently formed International Sheep Veterinary Association. As an extremely erudite, informative and entertaining speaker, he has spoken at many conferences both at home and abroad, and has authored many papers and articles. On learning that he had been awarded the Dalrymple-Champneys Cup and Medal, Chris Lewis commented: “I was utterly surprised and not a little intimidated to hear that I had been given this

award. Intimidated because of the very distinguished list of past recipients but encouraged as it includes the name of Terry Boundy, my great friend and mentor. And I am still overwhelmed that basically a general practitioner should be awarded such a prestigious honour.” Other awards Presented at the BVA Members’ Day • The Chiron Award for outstanding contributions to veterinary science or for outstanding services to the profession went to David Bartram for his research and intervention in the mental health of the UK veterinary profession attracting national and international interest. • The Trevor Blackburn Award went to Roland Minor in recognition of contributions to animal health and welfare in Africa and in particular for the impact of his work in animal disease control and his involvement in the eradication of rinderpest. • The Harry Steele-Bodger Memorial Scholarship was awarded to Ellie Milnes to investigate cooperative goat farming as an economic opportunity for impoverished families in Haiti. • BVA Overseas Travel Grants were awarded to Marise Curran, Sam Greenway, Alexis Pridmore and Abigail Waddington for work in Morocco, India, Kenya and Goa.

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| News

Marriot & River Cottage partner to co-create the future of hotel dining Marriott commits to increase the use of locally procured food to 80% at key UK hotels to support local farmers. arriott Hotels, the signature brand of Marriott International, today announces an innovative partnership with Hugh FearnleyWhittingstall’s River Cottage that celebrates and supports local and sustainable food. New seasonal menus will launch from 14 October 2013 at Hollins Hall, a Marriott Hotel & Country Club in West Yorkshire, and from 21 October at Cardiff Marriott before being rolled out to cover more of Marriott Hotels’ 50 UK hotels.

“This is an exciting project for River Cottage because of the substantial changes we can help Marriott make in procuring and cooking food” Responding to national interest in the provenance of food, the new menus will showcase the very best local and seasonal produce with starters costing from £4.75. Graig Farm in Newton will provide organic Welsh lamb for a signature dish including shoulder of lamb, smashed celeriac, chilli and thyme. Swillington Farm near Leeds will produce beef for a signature dish of slow cooked beef brisket with anchovy, rosemary potatoes and a red wine sauce. River Cottage has proved to be

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an invaluable partner for Marriott, facilitating the introduction of key local suppliers and sharing best practice on sustainable sourcing along with daily menu planning. The collaboration also supports Marriott Hotels’ new Travel Brilliantly campaign that aims to inspire exceptional travel experiences through innovation in culinary, design, technology and more. “Culinary enjoyment is a crucial element of any travel experience and the partnership with River Cottage will not only enhance the guest experience but hopefully encourage local people to try our restaurants too,” said Osama Hirzalla, Vice President Brand Marketing & eCommerce for Marriott International in Europe. In addition to Marriott’s Future Fish programme that aims to select and serve fish and shellfish from sustainable sources, the partnership will see changes in the following areas of Marriott’s food offering: · Local sourcing – Increase the percentage of food sourced by each Hotel from within a 60 mile radius to 80% · Menu change frequency – Increase the number of times the restaurant menu changes, from quarterly to daily · Waste management – Further reduce food wastage from a

current level of 5% · Sustainability rating – Improve the Sustainable Restaurant Association rating of each hotel · Organic meat – All meat used in the restaurants will be organic · Free range chicken – All chicken used in the restaurants will be free range The chefs at both hotels have undergone rigorous training at the River Cottage recently launched Chefs’ School and obtained City & Guilds accredited certificates in a range of competencies, from procuring sustainable food

through to butchery and nutrition. Chris Griffin, Head of Education at River Cottage, says: “This is an exciting project for River Cottage because of the substantial changes we can help Marriott make in procuring and cooking food. The new menus embrace our SLOW philosophy – Seasonal, Local, Organic and Wild - and we are delighted that local food heritage is being celebrated at each hotel. This is the first phase of a project that we hope will grab the attention of the hospitality industry.”

October 2013 | Farming Monthly | 09

| News

Wyke Farms Switches to Electric Delivery as part of 100% Green Sustainability Project The electricity-run delivery vehicles are being used to cut CO2 emissions and save money. yke Farms, the UK’s largest independent cheese producer and milk processor, and the UK’s first national cheddar brand to be

100% self-sufficient in green energy with the launch of its Biogas plant in September, is switching to electric vehicles for its delivery services. The vehicles will

Few weeks left to protect your rights to the manor Landowners and farmers in the region are being warned that they may need to take action following a change in the law regarding the ‘Manorial Rights’ of the land they occupy. anorial Rights might include sporting rights, mines, access rights or mineral rights and even the right to hold markets and fairs on the land. These rights can be very valuable, if not now but in the future, and due to a change in the law they need to be registered. “Landowners must register their manorial rights with the Land Registry before October 13, 2013 to ensure protection,” said James Neame, assistant land agent with Davis Meade Property Consultants at Oswestry. “Under the Land Registration Act 2002, manorial rights will lose their ‘overriding interest’ status at midnight on October 12, 2013 meaning that all rights must be mentioned in a conveyance in order to bind them to the land. If they are not registered, they risk the chance of being lost when the title, or ownership, if the surface land changes.” These rights are no longer automatically protected and if you register before this date an application will not be subject to a Land Registry fee. And register in good time as there is likely to be a rush of applications as the date draws near. “Land searches and research to establish and prove the existence of manorial rights to the land and mapping them to Land Registry compliant standards can take time so take action now if you think you are affected,” James advised. “These rights can date back for many years so it may be

worth checking if you are unsure, or even unaware, that you hold them. Unfortunately, you can no longer rest assured that these rights are safe and protected by law.” A new owner who buys the land or property after the deadline buys it free of these interests if they haven’t been protected prior to the sale. However, this is not the case with mines and minerals which will still be able to be registered in their own right if an applicant has sufficient evidence to support a separate title to those mines and minerals being granted. “Although some rights are not considered valuable at the moment they may become valuable in the future. For example mineral rights, often forgotten in remote locations, can become interesting if, for example, a renewable energy project such as fracking or a wind farm is proposed,” he said. “If you think you have rights over land that may need protecting, own a Lordship of the Manor or want to a preliminary investigation please contact us straight away and we can establish what rights do exist,” he said. “Those who do benefit from these rights should not risk losing them by failing to register them with the Land Registry.” James Neame can be contacted at Davis Meade Property Consultants on 01691 659658 or email jamesneame@dmpropertyconsu tants.com

10 | Farming Monthly | October 2013

be used for local deliveries in and around Bruton and will be charged using the solar panelling on Wyke’s dairy farm buildings. The initiative, which is part Wyke Farms’ 100% Green sustainability project, which has at its hub its new anaerobic digester (AD) plant, will enable Wyke Farms to save around 86kg of CO2 emissions a week compared to its previous delivery vehicles*, as well as reduce Wyke’s associated fuel costs by 75%**. The Nissan LEAF cars are 100% electric and produce zero CO2 emissions, and therefore have lower environmental and noise pollution than a standard petrol car. The car is built from 20% recycled products and is 95% recoverable and operates on 48 Laminiated Lithium ion batteries. “Our electric cars are just one part of our 100% Green initiative which is about reducing our carbon footprint globally” said Rich Clothier, managing director and 3rd generation family member at Wyke Farms. “Together with our biogas plant, this is just another

step towards ensuring that we work in synergy with the world surrounding us and secure our commitment to be the greenest brand in the grocery sector.” Wyke Farms has been producing its award-winning cheddar for over a century and has grown to become the largest family-owned cheese maker in Britain selling over 14,000 tonnes annually. The company have achieved substantial growth year on year by staying true to the traditional values behind the brand and have become the fastest growing cheddar brand at a rate of 10% every year for the past five years. Wyke Farms have 150 years of family farming experience. Wyke Farms’ cheese and butter is made with the milk from their cows grazing the lush pastures of the Mendip Hills in the centre of the Cheddar making region in Somerset. The Wyke Farms products are available nationwide and can be found in Asda, Co-op, Makro, Sainsbury’s Tesco and Waitrose.

Next Auctions on 7th October 2013 & 9th November 2013 commencing at 10.30am

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| Security

Prevent farm thefts Commonsense tips from Lincolnshire Police. ivestock Grazing animals are an easy target for the thief. Regularly check the fields where animals are grazing - daily if possible.Keep your hedges, fences and gates in good repair. Ditches form a natural barrier. Field gate hinges should have capping hinges so they cannot be removed easily. Cattle grids should be removable and locked out of position when not in use. Use locking posts to obstruct large openings to yards etc.Consider using closed circuit TV so you can watch animals in barns or yards from

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the comfort of your home. This can be especially useful during busy times like the lambing season.If livestock is stolen it is important that you can give the police an accurate description. Eartags and horn brands help police to identify stock. Freeze branding, hot branding or tattooing your postcode will also help.Take photographs of particularly valuable animals. Machinery and Tools Try to secure or immobilise vehicles or equipment when not in use. If it is possible remove machinery from fields, especially

near roads. Identify your property by: • Keeping a record of the serial number, chassis and model numbers of machines. • Painting your name on valuable tarpaulins in letters at least one foot high. • Using metal engravers to mark tools, vehicles and equipment with your postcode followed by the first two letters of your farm’s name. Always keep tools and small pieces of machinery locked away. Do not leave them lying around. Farm Buildings Store valuable equipment and tools - chainsaws, welding and cutting equipment, vehicle spares and riding tack - in a secure building behind a strong locked door. Or, build a metal storage cage inside a building and keep it locked.Use British Standard locks, good quality locking bars and high security padlocks. Windows can be protected with metal bars. Lock outbuildings when you are not using them.Thieves don’t like well-lit areas so fit outside security lights that are controlled by an automatic timeswitch or infra-red beams that react to heat or movement. Consider fitting an intruder alarm or closed circuit TV to alert you to anything auspicious. Farmhouse Farmhouses attract burglars because they are often large and in isolated places. Fit British Standard deadlocks to all outside doors, reinforced with strong bolts, which are preferably key-operated.Fit

window locks on ground floor windows and those near flat roofs and drain pipes.The main door should have a security chain and wide-angle door viewer, so that you can see who is on the other side of the door.A burglar alarm is useful but is often a last line of defence. Most only warn you when someone has already broken into your house. Your first priority should be to stop them getting that far.Keep shotguns and firearms in a securely locked place and store ammunition separately. If you have to keep cash or jewellery in the house, a safe is a good idea.Keep a record of your valuable possessions. Where possible, use a security marking device to mark them with your postcode followed by your house number or the first two letters of your farm’s name. Photograph your most valuable items - with a ruler to indicate scale. Don’t advertise that you are not at home by leaving notes for traders, or garage doors open. When your house is empty ask a neighbour or your local Farmwatch to keep an eye on your farm. And be prepared to do the same for them! It costs nothing to be alert Keep up to date on the current crime trends in your area. A good way to do this is to join your local Farmwatch. Your local police crime prevention officer can advise you. Encourage your employees to be security conscious, and look out for strange vans or cars - a registration number may give the police a vital lead. Remember - Insurance Pays!

October 2013 | Farming Monthly | 11

| Arable

New state-of-the-art grass seed plant for UK DLF-Trifolium is spending £3 million on a new 4,000m2 (43,000ft2) grass seed mixing facility and distribution centre just outside Edinburgh. t will be the biggest investment in grass mixtures production ever seen in the UK, with the capacity to handle up to half of all the agricultural grass seed sown in the country. Most of the seed passing through the plant will have been grown on farms in the UK and mainland Europe, with the rest coming from as far as Canada and New Zealand. The site, which has excellent road links north and south, is to be fitted out with 48 raw material bins to hold individual varieties. Bespoke automated equipment will select, mix, pack, treat, label and palletise the seed according to customers’ specific requirements. The planned start date for production is October 2014. The plant will have the flexibility and capacity to produce more than 3,000 different grass seeds mixtures, and will be capable of running 24/7 during periods of peak demand in spring and autumn. Individual orders will be weighed, mixed, bagged, labelled and palletised in just ten minutes, with guaranteed three day, and optional next day delivery, anywhere in mainland Britain. “We believe grass will play an increasing role within UK farming, as livestock producers strive to produce more meat and milk from homegrown forage,” says Tim Kerridge, Agricultural Sales Director for DLF Trifolium.

“More farmers are realising that re-seeding pastures with new, higher yielding and better quality varieties, boosts grassland productivity and animal output, whilst reducing their reliance on expensive bought-in feeds. We see demand for grass seed rising in line with this more progressive approach to grassland management.” Rapid response Mr Kerridge continues: “This new mixing plant will allow us to cater to the very specific demands of all our customers – but especially in terms of in-season lead times and the ‘just-intime’ culture that exists within our business sector. “When farmers order grass seed ‘in season’ they need it immediately, and we have to respond accordingly. The new plant will have the speed and capacity to ensure we can deliver the best lead times in our sector, even at the height of the season – when traditionally most suppliers are forced to extend them by up to a week, due to lack of capacity. “We have designed it to suit our needs now and in the future, and will be able to manage production output in line with seasonal demand,” Mr Kerridge explains. “This means we will be able to cope very efficiently with unexpected weather events, such as the condensed sowing season of spring 2013, which shortened the delivery window by around three weeks.”

The new state-of-the-art DLF grass seed mixing plant (artists impression)

More than half of the grass seed sown in the UK has been bred by DLF-Trifolium and the company has more varieties on the Recommended Grass and Clover Lists in the UK than any other breeding company. These varieties are marketed under the HF Seeds, Oliver Seeds and ForageMax brands. They are also included in the mixtures of many third party merchant customers who sell them under their own brand identity. All the forage mixtures will be produced in the new plant from next autumn, when the company relocates from its existing site in Leith, which has been operating as a grass seed mixing facility for more than 50 years.

Winter beans as break crop for black-grass Using winter beans as a break crop for black-grass and other grasses will appeal to growers, who may feel that they are fighting an upward battle against black-grass in wheat. ttitudes however are changing to weed control as it is now seen much more as a rotational issue, not just a single crop problem. In winter beans farmers can use a number of herbicides not recommended in cereals but with different modes of action, herbicides such as Kerb Flo 500, according to Dow AgroSciences. “Winter beans offer growers the opportunity to control grass-weeds with different chemistry. The new Dow AgroSciences LifeCycle principles, explained on (www.myfarmlifecycle.com), focuses on effective weed control and resistance management across the rotation. Independent trials in winter beans Kerb 500 Flo, applied pre-emergence in mixtures or in sequences, gave the highest levels of black-grass control. Kerb Flo 500 can be mixed with a range of herbicides approved in winter beans including clomazone, pendimethalin + imazamox and under Extension of Authorisation of Minor Use (EoAs) prosulfocarb or pendimethalin, which will

control virtually all common weeds in this crop,” says David Roberts of Dow AgroSciences. “In terms of agronomy, winter beans should not be drilled too early as forward crops are prone to disease and can suffer in the cold winter weather. Drilling beans mid October to mid November allows the use of a stale seedbed to reduce difficult grass-weed populations. This fits well into the LifeCycle principles in which factors other than chemicals contribute to weed control. Winter beans are not particularly competitive and so a preemergence herbicide is important to remove weeds and encourage branching and canopy growth of the beans. Such a treatment will also prevent annoying weeds, such as bindweed, from interfering with crop growth and harvest. You certainly don’t want to miss the pre-emergence window or you will be left with a limited choice of post-emergence herbicides.”

12 | Farming Monthly | October 2013

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| Precision

Trimble RangePoint RTX signals increased accuracy Trimble® has always been at the forefront of developing new technologies within precision agriculture. All new Trimble® RangePoint™ RTX™ correction service, currently available across the UK from Cambridgeshire based precision agriculture specialists AS Communications, provides a new broad accuracy satellite correction for growers. rimble RangePoint RTX correction service allows operators currently running a Trimble CFX-750™ Display, Trimble FmX® Integrated Display or Trimble AG-372 GNSS Receiver to access both GPS and GLONASS satellite constellations thus increasing satellite coverage and accuracy compared to that of free EGNOS correction which just uses standard GPS satellite constellations. Trimble RangePoint

RTX correction service will also be available on the all new Trimble TMX-2050™ Display. Accurate to within 15 cm passto-pass and repeatable to within 50 cm, Trimble RangePoint RTX correction service provides a reliable new satellite correction for growers undertaking crop applications that only require entry-level accuracy such as cultivations, fertiliser spreading, mowing and spraying.

Case IH precision Better on track – new correction signals and services. ase IH now offers interesting innovations in Advanced Farming Systems for all Case IH tractors and harvesting machines. These include new correction data and a new service that extends conventional RTK positioning data for several minutes if the RTK correction data stream should become temporarily unavailable. This system greatly improves the functional reliability and performance of auto guidance systems. Case IH RangePoint RTX – ideal for new users and all working widths RangePoint RTX is a new and highly reliable correction system available right now for Case IH tractors and combines with a maximum pass-on-pass deviation of just 15 centimetres and a repeat accuracy of 50 centimetres. As a result, this correction signal is ideal at cost-effective entry level for assisted steering and automatic guidance systems and applications using different working widths. The RangePoint RTX signal is GNS-compatible so that GPS and Glonass satellite signals can be used with Case IH AFS372 receivers and FM750 or FM1000 monitor screens. A key advantage in the field is that full accuracy can be achieved in less than five minutes. In addition, RangePoint RTX correction data is available via satellite throughout Europe. If the correction signal is not available – due to shadowing for example – AFS systems with RangePoint RTX continue to operate automatically for up to two minutes. This ensures that continuous operation is possible in the field. Special hardware – such as modems or new receivers – is not required.

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Moreover, Case IH offers RangePoint RTX free-of-charge in the first year. Entry-level Precision Farming is now a great deal more attractive for farmers in Europe especially thanks to a guidance precision of 15 centimetres. Case IH CenterPoint RTX – guidance accuracy and repeatability of four centimetres possible without reference station CenterPoint RTX is the 'big brother' of RangePoint RTX. Based on the same technology – known as absolute positioning – CenterPoint RTX increases positioning accuracy to below four centimetres. This service is also compatible with the new AFS372 receiver as well as FM750 and FM1000 monitors. CenterPoint RTX can also use GPS as well as Glonass satellite signals. With an active CenterPoint RTX subscription, farmers also receive free-of-charge access to Glonass satellite signals. The additional Glonass signals improve reception quality even further for even more precise positioning. A base station is not needed when using CenterPoint RTX. Owners of compatible AFS monitors can easily make use of the new signal by updating their equipment firmware and requesting an activation code from their Case IH dealer. Case IH xFill makes RTK technology even more reliable Case IH xFill is a new service for all Case IH Advanced Farming System (AFS) users, which makes RTK positioning data available for several minutes, even if the RTK correction signal is lost due to shadowing or mobile communications issues. This means less downtime and considerably more productivity.

Since its release in April 2013, growers using Trimble RangePoint RTX correction service have been impressed by the performance of the new satellite correction service over recent months. AS Communications’ operations manager Lee Clarke comments: ‘…Customers currently using Trimble RangePoint RTX have so far been very impressed. The new signal offers excellent satellite coverage with better accuracy compared to that of EGNOS and should be used as a minimum by all operators with compatible Trimble displays for jobs that only

need low-accuracy …’ Trimble RangePoint RTX correction services are currently available as 12 month subscriptions at an annual cost of £215.00. As a special introductory offer, 12 month subscriptions for Trimble RangePoint RTX correction service are however free of charge to existing operators who register before the end of the year. For further information on Trimble RangePoint RTX correction services please contact AS Communications on (01480) 861824 or visit www.ascommunications.co.uk

October 2013 | Farming Monthly | 13

| Forestry

New training programme offers woodfuel producers a bright future A new European training programme has been launched which, in the UK, will help woodfuel producers meet the anticipated boom in demand created by the Renewable Heat Incentive. he Wood Energy Training programme was developed by SAC Consulting (a Division of SRUC) and training provider Rural Development Initiatives Ltd (RDI) with partners in France, Estonia, Turkey, Finland and Austria. Aimed at those working in woodfuel production or running a woodfuel business, the programme’s 50 trainers across Europe will teach

key skills required for producing high quality woodchip or firewood. Explaining the benefit of the programme to the UK woodfuel sector, SAC Consulting’s John Farquhar said: “It is widely recognised that the increasing uptake of the Renewable Heat Incentive will result in an increased demand for woodfuel products. If this demand is going to be met, and the UK is to have successful,

Woodland Trust announces departure of current CEO The Woodland Trust has announced CEO, Sue Holden, will be leaving the organisation to take up an executive director role with conservation charity Earthwatch. hairman of the Trust, Nicola Nicholls, said: “The Trust wishes Sue well in her new venture. Earthwatch is an admirable environmental charity and we have no doubt she will be a great success there. Sue leaves the Trust in a strong financial position, with an experienced senior team in place ready to deliver its exciting new conservation strategy. “Our focus now will be on recruiting a person of the highest calibre to deliver the Trust’s strategic aims and to build on past successes.” Sue Holden added: “I leave the

smooth running woodfuel installations, it is critical that high quality woodfuel is available and that operators understand how to produce quality fuel.” The programme’s content draws on the experience and expertise of countries like Finland and Austria which already have mature woodfuel supply chains. Will Richardson of RDI said: “As we have developed the programme, we have learned from countries with vastly more experience of woodfuel. This has allowed us to develop an in-depth training course which will equip learners practical information and tools so they have the skills and confidence to produce high quality and economically viable woodfuel. Will explained that the programme’s launch is assisting in the development of new National Occupation Standards (NOS) for woodfuel. He said: “The NOS process is an essential step for any training programme in the UK in order for it to be recognised by

further and higher education bodies and vocational awarding bodies such as Lantra or City and Guilds. The fact that we have already developed a training programme to go alongside these standards means that as soon as the new NOS is agreed, there will be no delay in ensuring people can be trained to the new standards.” The programme’s development was funded by the EU Leonardo da Vinci Transfer of Innovation fund. Those signing up for the course will undertake more than 60 hours of guided learning, which can be taken in modular format or as part of existing land based qualifications. Anyone interested either attending, hosting or incorporating the Wood Energy Training Programme course should contact john.farquhar@sac.co.uk or will.richardson@ruraldevelopment. org.uk. Further details are also available at www.eduforest.eu

Woodland Trust with a mixture of excitement and sadness. My new role as executive director Europe, with a global charity like Earthwatch, will allow me to pursue my interests as a geographer and environmentalist at an international level. The Woodland Trust is a fantastic organisation, striving to protect ancient woodland and increase native woodland cover. I have loved working there and will continue to be inspired by its achievements.” Ms Holden will take up her new post in January 2014.

10% off until the end of October 2013

14 | Farming Monthly | October 2013

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| Fencing

Maintenance fencing tips Strip grazing, winter for farmers grazing, movable sheep fencing? Simple steps to keep your boundaries in tip top shape.

Need to keep your sheep contained temporarily...?

heck on Fencing Posts Whether it’s sheep, barbed or electric fencing you have, posts and wire need to be checked on a regular basis. Fencing posts are susceptible to rotting at ground level and should be assessed. Tanalised and Creosote treated posts are high quality materials with creosoted posts offering for a longer life job, especially the strainer post as this is the anchor for your full fencing system. Check on Fencing Wire Check the tension of the wire in your fence. Good quality high tensile wire will keep its tension much better than mild steel wire. Loose wire in a fence can be dangerous as an animal may get caught up in it or get through it and in effect, the fence is no longer doing the job it is intended to do. There are many inferior types of wire on the market these days and to an untrained eye it can be hard to tell the difference between good and poor wire by just looking at it. Always buy a wire with a label attached and check the label to see if it is manufactured and galvanised to British or Irish standard, thus ensuring a quality long life product. For electric fencing a wire of 2.5mm diameter will give good connectivity. If you use lighter wires, electrified tapes, or polywires this greatly restricts the length the current will travel and the effectiveness of the fence. Tapes and polywire may be used for short temporary runs. Check on Electric Fencing, Fencers and Earthing Systems Electric fencing is an effective all round fence to keep cows, cattle and even sheep secure. It works out cheaper than sheep or

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barbed wire fencing, but requires regular checking to ensure there is sufficient power on the fence wire at all times. The appropriate voltage on a new, well insulated fence should be at least 4,500 to 5,000 volts. Often, old or poorly maintained electric fencing lines have readings below the required voltage and should be upgraded. The Minimum amounts of voltage for different Animals are as follows; Dairy Cows: 2,000 volts Cattle: 3,000 volts Sheep: 4,000 volts Most electric fencers give out, as standard, about 5,000 to 7,000 volts. The difference in the fencers is the distance that they are able to drive the shock along the fence line. Therefore, if a larger fencer is needed the more miles of wire you have to power. Without an earthing system for the fencer there would be no shock on the wire. Guidelines for earthing systems: 1 – Use enough earth bars (depending on size of fencer) 2 – Use galvanised bolts and galvanised wire at all times 3 – Place earth bars a minimum of 3 meters apart 4 – Place earthing system away from household / ESB earths Cables and Insulation When installing underground or leadout cable from the fencer never use standard copper wire on your fence. Corrosion takes place where copper and steel wires are joined, which hinders the current flow. The role of insulators is to insulate the live wire from earth. With the high voltages, that are typical of an electric fence, it is important to minimise any leakage of current due to poor quality insulation.

ww.electricfencing.co.uk is the largest specialist online supplier of electric fencing in the UK. We have the most extensive and comprehensive range of products to cover all of your electric fencing needs. From three reel systems to solar powered electric poultry netting systems and many different energisers for different systems and applications.

We have a fantastic price on our Premium Three Reel System... Was £471.99…. Now £369.14.Three Reel System Autumn Offer available from 1st October - 31st December 2013! If you are not sure what you need - contact us - we love talking electric fencing! Call us on 01620 860058, visit www.electricfencing.co.uk or email info@electricfencing.co.uk

October 2013 | Farming Monthly | 15

| Fencing

Pressure creosoted stakes These have always been the longest lasting treatment available, and they still are. Generally two to three times better quality than the alternatives, and yes still available for the discerning farmer. ooden Supplies intend to increase our sales to the farming community. We have built up our stocks of stakes, rails, gates and everything else you will need so that we are best placed to serve new customers as well as the longstanding customers who are used to our high standards and quality. Our top salesman is Dan Davey and he is just one member of the team here in the forest at Harlestone who will be happy to take your call and arrange delivery throughout the country. Our plant is older than many of the trees surrounding us, but it more than generates the pressures and penetration needed to treat the finest stakes. It was built in the late 1800’s when craftsmen built to last, and the man in charge of the daily treatments is still Mark Tebbutt who has operated the plant for the last 200 years. His routine starts at 6:30 each morning with his safety checks. When you are dealing with a hot volatile liquid at high pressure you do not skip the safety checks as our very own Health, Safety and Environment Manager Paul Phillips heartily concurs. The next step in the process is to prepare the load on the buggies which run on their own very effective, if a little short, railway. The nature of the loads vary in terms of product and type of wood, but one thing never varies, they have to fit in the tank. Before being treated the timber will have sat in our drying sheds for over three months. It is critical that

16 | Farming Monthly | October 2013

the moisture content is below 28% which is why we stick with the tried and tested traditional methods. When the buggies are ready it is time to check that the heaters have got the creosote up to temperature and the pumps are primed for action. Then the buggies are pushed in using the Clarkson forklift and the process in the tank begins. First the air is pumped out which creates a vacuum of 22”Hg (that’s twenty-two inch of mercury in old money). Next the hot creosote is sucked in and is rapidly taken deep into the sapwood of the stake, and the dense heartwood in many cases. The pressure is built up to 150 psi (that’s in new money) and maintained for nearly an hour to really let the pressure push the creosote into the wood. The tank is 30ft long and the timber in each load will take up 100 gallons of creosote ! There is then a resting period as the pressure is reduced and the surplus creosote drains into the base tanks. Mark will have been busy the whole time making the necessary checks and measuring the uptake of creosote by the wood so that we can maintain our standards at BS 8417. He will now pull out the buggies with his vintage Clarkson and stack the wood ready for despatch before he completes the final paperwork and starts another batch off. Oh, and he often has his lunch about now. Mark, Dan, Paul and all the rest of the staff

here at Wooden Supplies take great pride in our creosote plant and want the whole of Britain to know about what really goes on in the woods on the Althorp Estate near Northampton. For more information visit www.woodensupplies.co.uk or call them on 01604 581444.

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| Fencing

Introducing the Definitive Guide to Timber Treatment Richard Jackson, CEO of Jacksons, reports on what makes Jacksons approach to timber treatment different and how the company is able to offer an unrivalled 25 year guarantee on their timber products. e have been very concerned in recent years about how difficult it is to get our message across to key audiences, like farmers. There are so many conflicting stories out there and sometimes we have heard that our competitors are even undermining our guarantee, which is something we don’t take lightly. “This has spurred us on to publish the Definitive Guide to Timber Treatment, so we can set the record straight. (please contact us at Jacksons and we’ll make sure you get a copy). “Our aim is to cut through the hype and clarify the common misunderstandings associated with timber treatment.” Jacksons Fencing, if you aren’t familiar with the company, offers a huge range of agricultural and equestrian fencing products, which all come with an amazing 25 year guarantee against rot and insect attack. Richard Jacksons tells us more, “Our Jakcure pressure treated posts are guaranteed for 25 years, although we know they can last much longer than that. A customer in West Sussex asked us to quote for replacing a run of our post and rail fencing because it ‘wasn’t quite as strong now as it had once been’. It turned out that the original had been installed by the customer’s father in the late 1960s. “The fence was looking a bit long in the tooth, but considering it was more than 40 years old we were delighted with how well it

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had lasted,” Recently the company, has invested heavily in trying to convey the company’s ethos of the highest quality in all areas, including materials, customer service and the correct way to kiln dry and pressure treat timber, to ensure it has the longevity to out last the 25 year guarantee. This is not only about the company’s reputation, it has a clear ecological and environmental message as well. “We are starting to get a lot of farmers telling us that they will only buy Jacksons stakes in the future,” said Richard. “When you consider that the stakes are a relatively small proportion of the total cost of the initial fence, it makes no sense to buy a cheaper product. “If you get it wrong you will have to take it all down, replace the stakes and then put the wire or the rails back again after six or seven years, when for a small extra cost in the first place you could have had a fence that lasted at least 25 years. “Environmentally, too, it makes much more sense to buy a product that will last 25 years instead of something you might have to replace as many as five times in the same period. “Buying cheaper doesn’t just mean using five times the wood. It means five times the fixings, five times the labour to make and erect it, five times as much fuel to transport it and energy to make it – and five times as much waste going to landfill or being burned and adding to global warming.”

Jacksons’ unique Jakcure pressure treatment process ensures that the preservative penetrates deep into the timber to provide lasting protection above and below ground. But that’s only part of the story. “It’s not just the chemicals we use that makes our process unbeatable,” Richard explained. “We make sure we use the right kind of wood, we make sure it’s completely dry, we machine it first so that we don’t then cut into the treated surface and if post treatment machining can’t be avoided we use our own end grain sealer.” It is the combination of the Jakcure process, the use of prime timber, good design and sturdy construction that allows the company to back all its timber fencing and gates with a 25year guarantee, something Jackson believes is currently unique. The company’s commitment to the environment extends to other areas of corporate responsibility and is why Jacksons has Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC) and Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) certification to prove that its raw materials come from sustainable sources. You can download a copy of the Definitive Guide to Timber Treatment from the Jacksons website, as well as accessing their complete range of fencing, gates and associated products – www.jacksons-fencing.co.uk or call 0800 414343 for brochures or quotes.

October 2013 | Farming Monthly | 17

| Education

Harper Adams celebrates Graduation 2013 More than 500 students from the ‘Class of 2013’ have celebrated the completion of their studies at Shropshire’s Harper Adams University’s annual graduation ceremony. he students - the first cohort to be presented with their awards since Harper Adams gained full university title - gathered in front of family, academics and VIPs for the ceremony in a marquee on the campus near Newport on September 20. And for family and friends unable to attend, the afternoon ceremony was broadcast live on the university’s website for the first time in the event’s history. Roger Mercer, Chairman of the Board of Governors, opened the ceremony and talked about the continued success of the university, including on-going investment into facilities on campus, the increasing number of scholarships awarded to students in the last year, the expansion of the industry placement programme and the university’s work within the agri-food sector. “This is a fantastic day. It is the culmination of all these students having completed three or four year courses and having worked extremely hard to do so,” he said. “It is extremely satisfying for the likes of me to see that come to fruition and must be for all the staff and everyone associated with Harper Adams.” Welcoming graduands, guests and families to the ceremony, Harper Adams’ ViceChancellor, Dr David Llewellyn, highlighted successes over the course of the 2012/13 academic year, including Harper Adams being awarded full university title in December last year. He talked about the ‘immense contributions’ by students, including

Students awaiting their graduation

their achievements in competitions, both nationally and internationally. He said: “Our graduation ceremony is the culmination of a huge amount of hard work by our students, and it is tremendous to be able to celebrate their success with their parents, friends and guests. “We look forward to keeping in touch with our graduates in the future

and wish them the very best as they embark on their careers.” A total of 527 awards were handed out including undergraduate, postgraduate and PhDs. During the ceremony, four VIPs were awarded for their services to the agri-food industry, with Professor Sir John Beddington, Caroline Drummond and the Duke of Westminster receiving Honorary Doctorates, and Stephen Woodgate awarded a Fellowship of the University.

Students celebrate graduating at Harper Adams University (left to right) Jenny Ashton, Alaw Haf Jones and Sarah Hardman

18 | Farming Monthly | October 2013

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| Education

Walford Farm Dairy Open Day attracts keen Interest As the sun shone, Walford College Farm was a particularly busy place yesterday as it opened its gates to the Public and over 400 people took the opportunity to visit its new Dairy Centre. he event on Sunday 22nd September attracted many former students, Shropshire farmers and members of the local community to see the new facility known as the RD Park Dairy Centre, named after Walford’s first Principal, the late Don Park. The Open Day followed the officially opening in July, by the Rt. Hon Owen Paterson MP, Secretary of State for the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. The Open Day also gave a number of College partners and suppliers the opportunity to exhibit their wares. Those present included, Minshalls, the Shropshire company responsible for the construction of the new dairy and Ellesmere-based Fullwood, the supplier of the technology for the state of the art robotic parlour, Wynnstay Group were also present, as were Hughes Brothers of Oswestry, the agricultural machinery company, whose display tractors became part of the attraction for younger visitors. The new robotic parlour attracted much attention from the

visitors, as did the afternoon milking in the herringbone parlour, both providing a fantastic showcase for the visitors. Andrew Tyley, College Principal and Chief Executive commented, “Our thanks go to Bruce Udale, Trustee of the RD Park Travel Scholarship Fund and recently retired College Governor, who coordinated the event. The recent capital investments of our new dairy make a powerful statement about our confidence and commitment to the dairy industry and the role of Walford in training future generations of farmers. Yesterday’s event was also a fantastic opportunity to showcase our facilities to the wider community. We were delighted that the event attracted, not only local farmers but many former students and members of the local community. The event could not have taken place without the support of the Farm Manager, Neil Ridgway, and his team as well as the Head of Faculty, Chris Jones. On top of their day jobs, they worked hard altogether to ensure the day was a memorable one for all our visitors”.

Neil Ridgway, Farm Manager and former Walford agriculture student added, “It was great to see so many people attend the Open Day and take interest in the developments at the Farm. On Sunday March 16th 2014, when we will be hosting our ever-popular Spring Lambing Day. By then, the new Rural Skills Centre and Enterprise Hub will be fully operational. Visitors will again have something new to learn about the further developments at

New leadership and management courses could boost rural business profits Leadership and management are key skills in any business, but are often the last to be developed in the rural land-based sector. ow, business managers at any level can gain a valuable insight into successful managerial techniques and leadership skills through two new, practical courses offered by the Rural Business School at Duchy College. Not only can they learn to motivate staff and provide strategic leadership to develop their business, they can also gain a recognised qualification via the Institute of Leadership and Management. “Skilled managers and leaders hold the key to productive, engaged workforces in any sector,” says Richard Soffe, director of the Rural Business School. “Getting the right mix of inspirational leadership and effective management skills can significantly improve staff moral, productivity and, ultimately, profitability across the rural landbased industry.” Many people simply acquire basic management skills on the job - particularly within family firms that make up such a large part of the South West’s land-based sector, says Mr Soffe. However, undertaking professional training can radically improve their leadership, and transform the viability of their business. Cornwall’s Lost Gardens of Heligan recently rolled out a bespoke leadership and

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Walford as a destination for the development of agricultural and related rural skills. We are also currently working with our partners to develop a Dairy Farming Academy to offer professional development opportunities to local farmers in the future”. Proceeds from the event will be donated to the RD Park Travel Scholarship to benefit future students.

management course to its staff, to assist in a period of structural change. “We wanted to re-enforce in all managers and supervisors the lost arts of delivering a highly focused, task-driven workforce, fit for the 21st century,” says chief executive officer George Elworthy. “It was wonderful to witness the growing sense of confidence in all participants as training went on. They felt better able to cope with the change and hungry for empowerment.” The two courses will be held at the regional NFU headquarters in Exeter, with the ILM Level 3 award aimed at line managers and supervisors, and the Level 5 award targeting senior managers. Both are bespoke to the rural land-based sector and will cover day-to-day management skills as well as strategic business leadership. The Level 3 course will be held on 13th, 20th, and 27th November; with the Level 5 course on 10/11th, 28/29th October and 21st November. For more information or to book your place please contact the Rural Business School on 0845 458 7485 or rbs@duchy.ac.uk. The Duchy College Rural Business School is working in Partnership with ADAS to deliver training under the Leadership Development Skills Project.

October 2013 | Farming Monthly | 19

| Energy

Vote of public support in favour of more wind farms 67% of people support building more wind farms in their local area whilst support for other technologies is much lower: 33% of people support fracking in their area and 31% of people support nuclear in their area.

enewableUK has welcomed an opinion poll carried out by ComRes which once again highlights overwhelming support for wind power among the British public. The opinion poll shows that a massive 67% of people support building wind farms in the area in which they live, making wind one of the most popular forms of energy generation. Only 33% backed fracking and just 31% favoured nuclear. RenewableUK’s Chief Executive, Maria McCaffery, said: “This latest opinion poll provides further cast iron evidence

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of the high levels of support that wind power enjoys right across the country. Every opinion poll done in recent years has put the support for wind at over 65% and that is no fluke. It is born out of the concerns people have over the country being over reliant on imported fossil fuels, which are putting up all our electricity bills, and the need to reduce our carbon emissions. This poll also blows a hole in the myth that people don’t want wind farms built anywhere near them. We know that isn’t true and this survey offers further proof that actually support for wind is extremely strong in local communities

around the country. “This has been an exciting year for wind energy so far, with the largest offshore wind farm in the world London Array opening, and further developments taking us over the 10 gigawatt mark for wind power for the first time. There is still a long way to go but we are making real progress in getting us towards our energy targets”. This news comes a day after influential think-tank Carbon Connect published a report calling for greater clarity from the government on how to better support the future development of offshore wind in the UK.

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| Energy

Spectrum selected for community wind project in Devon Spectrum Energy Systems, specialists in the supply and installation of solar PV arrays and wind turbines up to 850kW, was selected for the supply and installation of a V27 225kW remanufactured wind turbine for a community wind project in South Brent, Devon. outh Brent, a village covering 3,742 hectares on the south east edge of the Dartmoor National Park is home to Sustainable South Brent (SSB). In 2006 a group of residents formed SSB in response to concerns over climate change and fossil fuel depletion. Inspired by community energy projects elsewhere, members of SSB selected Marley Thatch Farm for the installation of a medium sized V27 225kW wind turbine, a modern day equivalent to the windmill which stood nearby in 1790. Director of South Brent Community Energy Society, Edward Chapman comments “The South Brent Community Energy Society project has raised well in excess of our target, pulling in £430,000 through a community share issue. We now have almost 200 members, consisting of 68% South Brent residents and 26% from surrounding areas.” Spectrum Energy Systems was selected as

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SSB’s partner due to their in depth knowledge and in-house capabilities. Throughout the project, Spectrum operated as technical support, negotiated with the national grid, submitted planning documents, conducted both soil and structural surveys, provided design and project management services, supplied full insurance and officially signed off the V27 wind turbine which ultimately gave South Brent Community Energy Society the peace of mind that everything had been taken care of. Proving popular within the local community,

whilst installing the V27 wind turbine reporters for the BBC visited site, interviewed and filmed Spectrum and South Brent Community Energy Society. Featured on BBC news the evening of the installation, you can view the video here http://bit.ly/18o12rL If you require further information on Spectrum Energy Systems and would like them to assist in the supply and installation of your community wind project, please visit www.spectrumenergysystems.co.uk or call 0845 47 47 604.

October 2013 | Farming Monthly | 21

| Energy

Why invest in wind?

David Taylor, Business Development Manager at UFW Wind Division

David Taylor, Business Development Manager at UFW Wind Division offers his thoughts on the wind turbine industry in Great Britain, and answers some of the questions he is regularly asked by the farming community.

he alternative energy industry is gaining momentum, and this is only set to continue with widespread support from governments, companies, corporations, and individuals. A recent Government report states that 20% of the UK's electricity is to come from renewable sources by 2020: put simply we need to invest in renewable energy to reduce the damaging impact of our carbon footprint. Current market conditions The UK is home to 40% of Europe’s entire wind resource, and it is from this sector that the government and industry professionals expect the greatest contribution towards the 2020 targets.

Over 530 turbines were installed in the 15-100KW field in 2012 - a 355% growth compared to only one year before - and projections for 2013 are higher again. In response to the press A key area of criticism associated with wind turbines is the noise they are believed to produce. However, it is worth noting that modern wind turbines are very quiet and adhere to the strict legislations on this matter. An EC Wind 55kW at 300m is approx. 35dB – by comparison a busy road at 5km is 3540dB (EWEA, Wind Energy – The Facts).

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Why are wind turbines suitable for farmers? Farming has faced many challenges over recent years - the farmers I speak to often comment on the crippling effects of rising oil costs, battles with supermarkets over milk pricing and unseasonal weather brought on by climate change. In such difficult times it is worth knowing that there are various grant schemes and finance options offered by both government and businesses including UFW, allowing farmers the financial opportunity to invest in renewable energy. Wind turbines can provide an energy supply as well as the option to sell the excess energy produced back to the National Grid via the Feed in Tariff (FIT)

scheme, thus creating an additional revenue stream for your farm. Understanding the application process A thorough assessment of the site should be undertaken prior to selecting a wind turbine. I would always recommend a full technical survey of your farm’s land, taking into account your electricity usage, average wind speed and capacity to supply surplus energy to your local grid. The annual average wind speed at a potential site for a wind turbine is the single most important characteristic when assessing the viability of a wind turbine, as this significantly affects the generated power which will impact any income streams from FIT and the sale of surplus electricity. >>>

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| Energy At UFW ltd I commission independent, site specific, wind speed assessments for the location of the wind turbine. This report not only provides a much more accurate wind speed (the worst error I have seen to date is 0.5m/s) but also provides data on the wind direction. Such reports are not overly expensive - approximately £750 plus VAT - money well spent when considering a substantial investment of between £50k and £500k for a small to medium scale wind turbine. I am surprised that many installers still use the NOABL database to perform these sorts of wind feasibility tests. The NOABL database provides a predicted annual average speed for a 1km by 1km grid square. There are two issues with this information: firstly, 1km x 1km is a fairly vast area and local differences within the sector can be massive, and secondly the NOABL has been proven to be up to 3m/s out when compared to measured data from an onsite anemometer - or in financial terms, £21k per annum difference in FIT income on a typical farm wind turbine such as the EC Wind 55kW. Investment opportunities broken down Costs vary depending on the wind turbine make and model. The UFW EC Wind turbine costs

around £280-£300k to install, with a further cost of £850 per annum to insure and £2,500 for service and maintenance. However, the estimated FIT Income is around £30-60k depending on wind speed, which accounts to an average payback period of 5-7 years, with a possible payback period of 3 years on extreme sites. This allows investors a short payback period with a secured income for the longevity of the turbine, which in the case of the EC Wind model is 25 years. There is little surprise why wind energy is fast becoming a leading investment opportunity for farmers, with offerings of government backed schemes and a short payback period: a great security in otherwise very turbulent times. For further information on installation opportunities with UFW and the EC Wind product please contact David Taylor via email: David.taylor@ufw.co.uk or phone: 079 645 212 11

Evance R9000 off-grid system provides farm with round-the-clock energy An Evance small wind turbine has been installed on the Darlay family farm in Nottinghamshire to give the farm round-the-clock electricity.

lthough the farm is less than a mile from a large coal fired power station, the farm is not connected to the grid due to the high connection cost. So after years of struggling to power the farm the Darlay's took the decision to install an Evance R9000 small wind turbine. Now the farm has electricity 24 hours a day, a big difference to the four to five hours generated daily by the generator.

“All the home owners, farmers and communities who have an R9000 are making significant energy savings and have fixed their electricity costs for 20 years – and have helped make it the most popular small wind turbine in the UK.” “Generating enough electricity for the farm and house has been a constant challenge for us and with the rising cost of diesel it has been very expensive to use the generator. That’s why we decided to look at alternative solutions and found that wind power could meet our needs,” comments Geoff Darlay, who runs the 230 acre farm

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with his family. “We looked at the R9000 as it has a proven track record for reliable operation and were delighted to find Evance had an off-grid solution.” “The turbine really has made our lives so much easier by having power around the clock. My only regret is that we didn’t invest in an Evance turbine earlier,” concluded Mr Darlay. As part of the off-grid system there is a battery bank which can store 55kWh of electricity and an additional heater has been fitted, so if the battery bank is full any additional energy generated goes to a heater in the house – therefore all the renewable energy generated is used. “I’m pleased that our turbine has changed the Darlay’s lives for the better, not just financially but also helping the practical day to day running of a farm and home,” said Kevin Parslow, CEO of Evance Wind Turbines. “All the home owners, farmers and communities who have an R9000 are making significant energy savings and have fixed their electricity costs for 20 years – and have helped make it the most popular small wind turbine(i) in the UK.” (i) 1.5kW to 15kW small wind turbines

October 2013 | Farming Monthly | 23

| Energy

RenewablesUK 2013 Our 35th annual conference and exhibition is widely recognised as the renewables event to attend in the UK – our flagship event will be attended by over 5,000 delegates, 300 exhibitors and 150 speakers. Visit us on 5 7 November at the NEC Birmingham. here is a free seminar for farmers and other members of the rural economy at the NEC Birmingham on the 7th November, the seminar is part of RenewableUK 2013, the largest wind, wave and tidal energy conference and exhibition in the UK. It is an ideal opportunity for anyone who is interested in learning more about the benefits and practical issues associated with installing a wind turbine. Those attending would also have the opportunity to meet a wide range of developers, manufacturers and other industry experts covering whatever scale of development they might be considering at the free exhibition. The free seminar for farmers and other members of the rural economy will provide advice on practical aspect of installing a wind turbine, including project financing, planning and installation. Speakers include experts on Renewable energy

from both the NFU and WRAP. Please see below for information on the presenters. F12: Public Session – Farming Wind Energy Chair: TBC Leila Sharland, Sale Manager, Central Accounts - Medium Wind Department, Dulas: The Journey of Installing a Wind Turbine David Rogers, Programme Area Manager – Rural Community Energy Fund, WRAP Jonathan Scurlock, Chief Adviser, Renewable Energy and Climate Change, National Farmers' Union: Opportunities and Financial Benefits of Farm Diversification into Small and Medium Wind Energy Those interested in attending are requested to register for the free Public Day which will entitle them to attend the free seminar, entry to both the small and medium wind exhibition and to the main exhibition on the 7th November. For registration details visit www.renewableuk.com

24 | Farming Monthly | October 2013

Solar wind – the next renewable breakthrough? A pioneering new service for renewable energy developers and wind farm owners is being launched by environmental and engineering consultancy Wardell Armstrong. “Solar wind” is designed to optimise the full capacity of expensive grid connections by incorporating ground-mounted solar panels on the same site as wind turbines. ith an estimated total capacity of onshore wind across all stages of development now as high as 19,703MWe, planning permission is becoming ever harder to secure. Returns can be high but are limited by turbines typically generating only around 35% of their capacity because of variations in wind strength – even though grid connections are sized at maximum capacity. The cost of these connections can be a very significant portion of development capital cost. Their availability in parts of the UK is also becoming increasingly constrained. Anything that can be done to improve utilisation and make the best use of expensive assets is therefore very worthwhile. “It makes perfect commercial sense to think about adding solar generation to existing or proposed wind farms,” said Neil Sutherland, Wardell Armstrong regional director and specialist in renewables planning. “Bolting on solar effectively takes advantage of a free grid connection. It can make good use of wasted capacity, improve the value of the site, increase the profitability of the project and enhance overall sustainability. It also makes solar viable right across the UK, including up to the north of Scotland. Any planning or community resistance may well also be lower on an existing site, since ground-mounted panels are much smaller in terms of visual envelope and impact. It could be the next big practical breakthrough in renewable energy.” Wardell Armstrong’s new solar wind service follows several months of researching wind and solar data at different sites and gaining interest from developers. It involves a feasibility assessment, site design, a financial assessment of potential returns, and (if positive) the handling of planning proposal submissions including further detailed assessments such as landscape, ecology and archaeology.

As the UK market leader in ground-mounted solar feasibility and planning, the consultancy is well placed to advise on the advantages and practicalities of solar wind. It has been involved variously in assessing, securing permission and managing discharge conditions for more than 500MW of solar installations since 2009 – including the UK’s first consented solar park at a disused tin mine near Truro in Cornwall. The new service will be formally launched at the RenewableUK 2013 annual conference and exhibition, being held at the NEC Birmingham on 5-7 November.

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| Buildings

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October 2013 | Farming Monthly | 29

| Energy

Solar Energy UK show preview Solar installations are becoming an increasingly attractive proposition to farmers, offering a stable, alternative source of revenue. he UK’s largest solar exhibition, Solar Energy UK, is preparing for an even bigger 2013 as the show branches out yet again. Now in its fourth year, Solar Energy UK brings together the entire UK solar industry with a view to driving the sector forward as well as ensuring its sustainability for the future. One of the largest areas of growth for solar in the UK has been the rise of solar farms. In the first quarter of 2013 alone, a staggering 0.5GW of large-scale solar capacity was added to the grid. This year’s event will bring together the UK’s leading developers to discuss the crucial aspects of large-scale solar development. Backed by a government-led solar strategy that’s aiming for 20GW by 2020, solar in the UK is stepping into the mainstream. Solar Energy UK feature areas Four feature areas will play host to live demonstrations and discussions. Practical PV will provide answers to your most intricate installation questions, while Practical LargeScale PV will demonstrate practical realities of large-scale installations. This year’s event will also house a dedicated Renewable Heat feature area; talk of the newlyintroduced Renewable Heat Incentive is set to dominate the area, as experts will elucidate on the many ways the market can benefit from the scheme’s launch in 2014. Elsewhere, the Ecohouse feature will return, boasting a buildingintegrated PV-led focus on how solar can

26 | Farming Monthly | October 2013

complement a whole house solution. Seminars The Solar Energy UK Seminars will cover everything you need to know about PV, solar thermal, storage and energy solutions and the wider UK (and global) solar industry. Providing the latest information on EPC requirements, the revival of large-scale, policy, technology and market trends these half-day sessions are not to be missed. Technology seminar Dedicated to the UK’s fastest growing renewable sector, the Solar Energy UK Technology Hall will deliver up-to-the-minute information through a series of half-day seminars focusing on PV policy, solar market trends, product pricing and technology

advancements, grid connectivity and storage, and the role PV will play in the Green Deal. Solar Business Hall This hall takes care of everything else you’ll need to know as part of the UK’s prosperous solar market. Taking a look at wider policy issues and how they affect your business, the continued revival of large-scale solar under the ROC mechanism, local authority projects and other areas of solar business including finance mechanisms and legal requirements for solar PV and thermal technology – this seminar series covers it all. Solar Energy UK 2013 runs from 8-10 October at the NEC in Birmingham. Those wishing to attend can register for free at http://uk.solarenergyevents.com

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| Energy

UK enters global PV top six with record-breaking half year South and East regions remain project developers priority. ooking at the geographic split between the solar PV capacity installed in the UK during 1H 2013, it should not come as any great surprise that over 50% falls within the two Southern regions (South West and South East). While historically Cornwall was the focus of installs in the South West, more capacity was installed in Devon during 1H 2013 than any other county within the UK. Major contributions within the South come also from Hampshire and Somerset. As developers have shifted away from Cornwall and the South West, more capacity is being installed in the Eastern regions (East Midlands and East of England). Within Leicestershire and Lincolnshire, over 65MW of large-scale ground-mount was installed during 1H 2013. In the East of England region, Cambridgeshire, Norfolk and Suffolk each installed over 20MW of large-scale groundmount capacity also. However, despite the dominance of the South and East categories, there is significantly more activity now across a broader range of counties further north. Looking at the NPD Solarbuzz project pipeline of large-scale projects, once the South, East and West categories are removed, there is well over 50MW of large-scale ground-mount projects being planned in the North (West and East),

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Yorkshire and Humberside, Scotland and Ireland. This includes a 20MW project as far north as Peterhead. Currently, the largest (most northerly) ground-mount PV installation is the solar farm at the former Esk & Jewell College campus just outside Dalkeith This installation, equipped with Astronergy modules and Power-One inverters, is particularly notable given the absence of solar PV within the renewable energy roadmap being strongly advocated by the Scottish Parliament at Holyrood. Summary The UK has now emerged as a leading solar PV candidate within a high-growth global energy segment. The 802MW of new solar PV installed during 1H 2013 has elevated the UK to the sixth largest country in the world for new solar PV capacity, with strong deployment forecast for 2H 2013 also. While year-on-year growth remains aggressive, continued adjustments within government policies are essential to sustain the domestic sector against the backdrop of a highly dynamic global PV industry, including recent trade cases that have changed the supply landscape considerably. Today however, the UK PV industry currently has one of the most constructive

government/trade-association/projectdeveloper working partnerships seen globally. This provides strong confidence that any short-term issues can be overcome successfully to create a viable (albeit challenging) roadmap for all industry participants. Reaching the unofficial 20-GW-by2020 target remains dependent on this crossparty alliance holding rank and creating suitable framework policies within which the broader domestic PV industry can operate with confidence. Finlay Colville will be speaking at this year’s Solar Energy UK. His speech, ‘The analyst’s perspective: market insight, pricing and regulatory impact for large-scale in the UK’ will take place in the Solar Business Seminar Hall on Tuesday 8 October.

October 2013 | Farming Monthly | 27

| Energy

INRG wins permission Farmers & growers for 16MW solar farm on “Bowler’d” over with PV former airbase site Photovoltaics installation firm INRG Solar has won the go ahead for a 16MW solar park on the site of a disused World War II airfield in Buckinghamshire. ylesbury Vale District Council planners have given approval for the facility, which would extend to 35 hectares at the western end of Turweston Airfield near Brackley. The council said that the site

was well shielded by trees and bushes and that the harm to the environment would be low. A report prepared by council officers said: “…landscape value is considered low in its present form and it is therefore

considered the proposed change would not result in a significant degree of harm to its landscape value”. This development will generate enough electricity for 4,000 homes in the area saving over 3,000 tonnes of carbon each year, the firm said. The decision to grant approval was made by council planners after the decision was delegated to them by councillors. The western end of the site still operates as a civil aerodrome. David Dean, commercial manager for INRG Solar said that the firm has a pipeline of more than 300MW of solar farms in the UK which it hopes to develop over the next two years.

Fishery eyes new revenue streams from solar array Eye Kettleby Lakes, a family-run fishery in Leicestershire has turned to solar PV to reduce its carbon footprint, increase its sustainable income and generate new revenue streams. he fishery approached renewable energy installer Myriad Solar PV to help design and install a solar array to suit the fishery's needs. The solar installer specified a 100-panel 24kWp system to help drive down Eye Kettleby Lakes’ energy bills. The solar array is expected to mitigate the emission of 10.35 tonnes of CO2 every year and generate an estimated 19,571kWh of clean electricity in the process. The £58,000 investment is expected to pay for itself within six years and will help slash the company’s energy bills by almost £10,000 a year. Lee Baxter, general manager of Myriad Solar PV said: “The Eye Kettleby Lakes project is a great example of how a business can

harness sustainable technology to make a real difference, both financially and in its carbon reduction strategies.” The project has been such a success that Myriad is planning two ‘talk and tour’ seminar sessions at the fishery later this month. The tours are designed to help other local businesses recognise the benefits on offer from solar installations. Baxter explained: “This ‘talk and tour’ event is a great opportunity for businesses to speak directly to some of Myriad Solar PV’s technical and design experts, and learn how they could benefit from installing PV on their business premises. “With corporate social responsibility and sustainability

28 | Farming Monthly | October 2013

Ernest Fenton is an arable and sheep farmer in Tunbridge Wells, Kent. Not only does Ernest run his own farm, he is also the owner of an ice rink for curling.

n early 2012, Ernest came into contact with Bowler Energy and, after a quick comparison, found they were able to provide the most reasonable price for a solar energy installation. An on-site assessment by advisor Eddie Chadfield revealed that the best way for Ernest to optimise his energy was through a 50kW roof mounted system on a purpose built barn. Constructed at the optimum angle, Ernest would be able to obtain the maximum output from the PV panels whilst benefiting from extra storage space. After the initial recommendation, Bowler Energy ensured a quick installation process by overseeing the whole operation. All in all, the entire process from initial contact to completed and commissioned PV system was just five months. “Electricity consumption is heading in the right direction” Ernest says highlighting that his PV system was installed at just the right time, “The feed-in tariff has helped to support the farm, which has been a godsend during these last few months. We would be in a very different position now if it wasn’t for that.” Ernest has been very pleased to see the benefits of his new PV system. It has lowered his reliance on electricity from the grid, ultimately reducing the cost

becoming ever more important to companies of all sizes, the issue of renewable energy is being pushed up the boardroom agenda. We’re aiming the event at factory, office and industrial estate owners,

required to maintain his ice rink. The result of this has enabled him to extend the opening season of his rink to include the spring and autumn. A full, twelve months after the installation, Ernest has the figures available from his system to compare with others. “I have a friend on the south coast who has an installation the same size as mine on one of his dairy buildings. We compare output readings and every month so far mine has beaten his by at least 10%, sometimes even 15%.” Also delighting in the benefits of a PV system from Bowler Energy are Stephen and David McGuffie, commercial soft fruit and asparagus growers in Staffordshire. After deciding to protect their business against the unknown effects of future electricity prices, they felt that renewable energy was the way forward. The roof mounted system was able to power the cold stores on the farm whilst supplying additional electricity to the offices on site. The total benefit of the PV system installation over the first twelve month period has been £19,888. This is coupled with the panels producing 12.9% more kWh than they were originally predicted. “I am delighted with the installation and it is worth noting that one of the best points is that the return on capital is as a passive investment.” sustainability and energy managers, estate and facilities managers along with anyone else with a project looking at ways to cut their energy bills and carbon footprint.”

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| Energy

Nextgen 2013 incorporating EBEC 9-10 October, Stonleigh Park, Warwickshire. ith over 175 exhibitors from the AD& Biogas, Biomass, Energy from waste, and CHP sectors, Nextgen 2013, incorporating ebec - the largest integrated Bioenergy event in the UK – gives an insight into the opportunities and challenges around delivering new and more stringent carbon reduction and energy consumption targets. With the Government promoting the renewables agenda, legally binding EU targets to meet, and new beneficial tariffs, this is the time for Bioenergy businesses to prosper and succeed. At Nextgen 2013 the whole market is brought together - to discuss and debate the business issues, legislative challenges and opportunities which really matter, now and into the future. With a free conference and CPD accredited education programme, Nextgen will cover a wide range of topics including Feedstock selection, Profitability, Funding and current legislation across the range of technologies. Four theatres across the exhibition will host high quality speakers from the entire renewables sector

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offering invaluable advice whether at the conceptual, planning, delivery or operational phase of your next project. Event Director for Nextgen, Chris Down, said “Exceptional growth is forecast in the next three to five years due to a stable incentive landscape for biomass and biogas which will drive the UK’s renewable heat and power markets. The UK’s bioenergy market is expected to grow from £5bn to £7bn over the next five years as more and more businesses, local authorities, manufacturers, farmers and landowners adopt bioenergy as a mainstream energy source to help drive the UK towards its 2020 targets. This is the ideal platform for all those in the industry to discuss the changes, share experiences and gain valuable education and we encourage delegates to register for this fantastic opportunity.” As the ultimate business platform for the bioenergy sector, delegates will be able to speak with key industry professionals, see live vehicle and equipment demonstrations and attend

educational seminars. Designed to be clear and relevant to the different phases in renewable projects, the multi-stream conference will deliver educative presentations and topical panel discussions. This year’s Agri-rural programme will focus on taking prospective project owners and planners through the challenges and opportunities of deploying renewables, in particular Biomass and Biogas systems.This will include an in-depth study of the

process from start to finish, including selecting and specifying your renewables, sourcing feed stock, the business case, funding models, incentives, project planning, commissioning, operations, grid connection and proper lifecycle cost analysis. A mixture of talks, panels and case studies will be offered throughout both days. Delegates will come away better able to make an informed decision with instant access to over 175 suppliers.

October 2013 | Farming Monthly | 29

| Energy

Nextgen anaerobic digestion site tours Getting up close and personal with anaerobic digestion in Oxfordshire. extgen – the largest and most established event for the UK Bioenergy market – recently set up tours of anaerobic digestion plants in Oxfordshire. Visitors from across the country were given a unique opportunity to visit the AD plant sites, ahead of the Nextgen conference and exhibition which takes place on the 9 - 10 October at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire. The visit provided delegates with fascinating insight into how these bioenergy facilities function on a day-to-day basis, with site owners on hand to explain how the plants were developed from the initial planning stages, right through to implementation. Industry experts including Anna Becvar, Director at Earthcare Technical Ltd, kicked started the day by delivering seminars on relevant industry topics. Two site visits then commenced. The first site visit was to Agrivert’s AD facility, a site designed to treat municipal food waste to generate a power output of 2.1 MW. The

second plant by JJ Power was remarkably different; featuring a self-built project on a small farm, which uses existing farm waste such as pig slurry to produce its energy. Event Director for nextgen, Chris Down, said “It is clear there is public appetite to find out more about this relatively unknown technology. Visits to high profile plant sites provide a rare opportunity for people to fully understand how these facilities work and grasp the incredible benefits they offer to reduce the carbon footprint.” There is still a relatively small number of operating AD plants in the UK, but this number is growing rapidly and according to the Anaerobic Digestion and Biogas Association (ADBA), it will continue to grow at around 30% per year. nextgen will be organising more site tours throughout the year, which can be booked via the website at www.nextgenexpo.co.uk

Come and see us at EBEC on stand E25

30 | Farming Monthly | October 2013

WELTEC BIOPOWER Develops 1.6 MW of Green Energy in France Implementation of Four Biogas Plants with Partner Domaix Energie.

One of the reasons why the French investors opted for WELTEC BIOPOWER is that the plant engineering company from Lower Saxony is renowned for itsindividualised implementation.

iogas plant manufacturer WELTEC BIOPOWER GmbH has made the next step in its successful export strategy: Together with the partner Domaix Energie in Alsace, the company from Germany has started rolling out four agricultural biogas plant projects in France. Apart from agricultural substrates, the biogas plants, whose construction has already started, will use sludge and food leftovers. This documents the trend that French biogas plants are increasingly fermenting industrial leftovers. Since the introduction of the separation and utilisation of kitchen waste from large catering establishments in France at the end of 2011, organic waste from schools and company cafeterias must be used for the production of energy. Accordingly, WELTEC will integrate hygienisation units in order to utilise the substances of category 3 according to the EU directive. Another common feature concerns the use of the heat: In all four biogas plants, the residual heat will be used in a digestate dryer in order to reduce the amount of liquid manure and market the dried digestate. Thanks to the heat utilisation concept, the four biogas plants have an efficiency of at least 70 percent, enabling the operators to benefit from the heat and power bonus, which is up to EUR 0.04/kWh in France. One of the reasons why the four French investors opted for

WELTEC BIOPOWER is that the plant engineering company from Lower Saxony is renowned for its individualised implementation. Thus, the two 600-kW plants that are currently being built use similar substrates but differ in terms of the composition and concepts. For this reason, the plant in the département of Charente makes use of a 3,000-m³ stainless-steel digester, while the other 600-kW plant in Burgundy, central France, will have two digesters with a capacity of 2,000 m³ each. The two other plants will have an electrical output of 190 kW and 255 kW, respectively. The smaller WELTEC biogas plant in Lorraine comprises a 1,500-m³ stainlesssteel digester and will be loaded with cattle manure from the operator‘s farm as well as whole plant silage and food leftovers. Additionally, the 255-kW plant will utilise agro-industrial waste. However, WELTEC BIOPOWER does not only ensure technical solutions, but also establishes financing contacts if necessary. Two of the biogas plants that are currently being built are funded by the farmers. The WELTEC partner Domaix Energie from Gundershoffen, Alsace, and Methanor, a French biogas fund, are involved in the financing of the other two plants. Domaix Energie was established in 2005 and has been a partner of WELTEC BIOPOWER ever since. Since the beginning of 2013, Martin Nippé has headed the operations of Domaix.

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| Potatoes

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October 2013 | Farming Monthly | 35

| Energy

AD silage harvesting using fob activated weigh beams With the introduction to the market of a portable unmanned weighbridge with fob activated tare weights for tractor/trailer combinations, agricultural contractors and bio-gas plant operators have not been slow in looking into ways of using this system to its maximum potential. he existing system from GRIFFITH ELDER consisted of beams and ramps, armoured cables, traffic light on a stand, and indicator housed in a waterproof case with printer and built in power supply. The fobs that activate the system are solidly constructed and supplied on a lanyard. The most attractive features of this system is its speed of operation, portability and ease of use, all important features when you need to keep cycle times from field to clamp to a minimum, especially if you are relying on seasonal workers who are carting

and may need to be called upon with short notice. The iceing on the cake is the addition of Biogas Weighbridge Software that is run on a laptop and controls the whole system. It has been specifically designed for Biogas intake material to make the weighing of vehicles very swift.

32 | Farming Monthly | October 2013

Features include dry matter content (to a pre-defined value) which can be corrected when true dry matter analysis is known. Suppliers, field names, crop types and varieties, clamp sites, vehicles tare weights etc can all be pre-defined and put into the programme before the season

starts. Reporting options include pre-defined reports for daily work records, clamp summaries, yield per field and yield per farm. Alternative reports can be user designed and saved in a spread sheet format or csv file for use in other software packages like â&#x20AC;&#x153;Gatekeeperâ&#x20AC;?.

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| Energy

Keep warm, make massive savings and boost the environment with Eco Fire Stoves

EBRI announces programme of free events

With rocketing energy prices an increasing number of people are taking the decision to install a wood or pellet burning stove in their home.

he European Bioenergy Research Institute (EBRI) at Aston University will partner with rural sustainability consultants Greenwatt Technology this Autumn, to run a programme of free workshops designed to help West Midlands farmers and landowners make the most of the wealth of bioenergy opportunities within the region. The workshops will take place on Tuesday 5 November (Gnosall Community Hall, Staffordshire ST20 0ET), Thursday 7 November (The Hop Kiln, Risbury Court, Leominster HR6 0NG ) and Tuesday 12 November (Pleasance Farm, Kenilworth CV8 1PR ). Each workshop will run from 10.00 – 15.00 followed by an optional local visit to see a bioenergy plant in operation (5th November anaerobic digester; 7th and 12th biomass systems). The workshops will focus on the applications of bioenergy technologies for farm enterprises and land-based businesses in the West Midlands, providing a real opportunity to turn ideas into practice. Workshops will cover technologies including anaerobic digestion, biomass, biofuels for transport and will also investigate local bioenergy distribution options. They will also provide solutions to common barriers such as planning restrictions, project finance and grid connectivity. Those farmers and landowners wishing to take their ideas forward will be offered on-farm feasibility studies and 1:1 discussions with EBRI bioenergy specialists during November and December. According to the Defra Farm Business Survey of 2011-12, there are 6,092 registered farm units in the West Midlands. Of these, 1,130 are classified as dairy farms and 868 as arable farms. Arable cropping (cereals, oilseeds, potatoes, horticulture) cover 356,000 hectares, with grassland and grazing around 500,000 hectares and woodland 26,000 hectares. This represents a huge bioenergy prospect in terms of resource and locations. Mike Woollacott from Greenwatt Technology said: “Farmers and landowners are increasingly turning to renewable energy solutions, due to a range of issues

co Fire Stoves are offering an eco friendly heating option that saves you money and will significantly reduce the cost on your energy bills by up to 75%.

“Our products all run on renewable fuels, such wood logs and wood pellet which are renewable and sustainable products. “ We believe consumers will benefit from our products which will not only save on their heating bills, but will enhance their homes with great design and relaxing natural heat. They are supported by the Government who are now offering grants against pellet stoves through their RHI and green deal initiatives. Eco Fire Stoves can guide you through the process of obtaining installation of wood log burner and pellet stoves boiler to installation by one of our fully qualified engineers. • The Palazzetti range of wood burning stoves has patented technology and offer unparalleled flexibility in their installation and use, they have been the choice of in house engineers, architects and designers for many years in

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Europe and we now want to bring them to the consumer in the UK. • They are designed in Italy with typical clean Italian design principles and manufactured to the highest standards and in absolute respect for the environment, tested and certified by the most prestigious European Institute and by associations protecting consumers and the environment. • Our products all run on renewable fuels, such wood logs and wood pellet which are renewable and sustainable products. A renewable future is also essential for the planet, cutting down our dependence on gas and oil and we are committed to helping the UK reduce its carbon emissions through providing best value products and services that have the most impact on CO2. This includes areas of heating such biomass wood pellets, wood boilers, solar thermal and hot water accumulation. Eco Fire Stoves is based at Mill View, Victoria Street (off Derby Road) Hinckley, Leicestershire LE10 1XD and is open Monday 10am-2pm, Thursday, Friday and Saturday 10am-5pm. Call 01455 637941 and visit www.ecofirestoves.co.uk

Aimed at helping West Midlands farm-businesses and landowners exploit bioenergy opportunities.

impacting upon their current rural business activities, including the rising costs of energy and transport fuels, environmental legislation and the impact of climate change. The introduction of renewable energy activities on farms as viable farm diversification enterprises will stimulate and sustain the next generation of farmers and landowners, complement farm incomes and provide new rural employment opportunities. “In particular, with large amounts of land and bioenergy resource available, farmers in the West Midlands are in an excellent position to exploit the commercial opportunities for bioenergy. Such a move has the benefits of reducing energy inputs on farms, generating income through the export of power and heat (either to the national grid or via local supply grids), reducing greenhouse gas emissions and reducing environmental risks.” Farmers Weekly recently conducted a survey amongst 698 farmers and landowners which revealed that 38% have already installed at least one renewable energy technology, and of these, 75% are likely to make further investments. Bioenergy – made up of biomass for heat, anaerobic digestion and biofuel cropping – accounts for 31% of those farmers surveyed with renewable energy installations, second only to solar PV. Tom Anderson, Business Development Manager at EBRI, said: “Bioenergy is one the fastest growing sectors in the West Midlands and these workshops will enable the region’s farmbusinesses to access this exciting new market opportunity. The events will provide a real opportunity to turn farm-based bioenergy ideas into reality through focussed workshops and business support. Overall, we hope that the events will significantly increase the level of knowledge, understanding and deployment of bioenergy technologies amongst the landbased sector across the region.” Farmers and landowners can register to attend at www.bioenergymidlands.org/farming

October 2013 | Farming Monthly | 33

| Fuels

Consumers urged to order winter heating oil now The trade association for the oil distribution industry FPS (Federation of Petroleum Suppliers) is urging consumers to order their heating oil now for winter and has launched its Buy Oil Early Campaign together with the Government, ACRE (Action with Communities in Rural England), Citizens Advice Bureau, and Consumer Futures. y planning ahead, consumers can avoid the pitfalls of ordering heating oil for homes and businesses at the last minute, when the distribution may already be disrupted by increased demand and cold weather, and prices may be higher. Energy Minister Michael Fallon, who is backing the Buy Oil Early Campaign, says: “I welcome the launch of this campaign. The message is simple: stock up on heating oil before the winter leaves

you out in the cold. Previous severe winters show it’s better to order early when suppliers have spare delivery capacity. Delaying risks longer delivery times especially if cold weather increases demand and disrupts deliveries, particularly in remote and rural parts of the country. The new Code of Practice and Customer Charter by FPS (Federation of Petroleum Suppliers) is a welcome commitment from the industry to

All change at OHTA in a bid to raise standards Oil Heating Trade Association signals industry commitment with new Code Of Practice and Customer Charter. he trade association representing most heating oil distributors in the UK and Republic of Ireland, FPS (Federation of Petroleum Suppliers), has recently produced a Code of Practice and Customer Charter in a bid to raise standards within the oil distribution industry. Since the industry was investigated by the OFT (Office of Fair Trading) in 2011, the FPS and its members have worked closely with the OFT, Citizens Advice Bureau, Consumer Focus, ACRE (Advisory Committee on Releases to the Environment) and DECC (Department of Energy and Climate Change) to form the new Code of Practice and Customer Charter. Launched on 1 September 2013, the Code of Practice is designed to ensure all FPS members adhere to high standards and contribute towards the professionalism of the industry. Together with the Customer Charter, the new code should ensure that the best service is offered by FPS members and customers are fully supported when ordering heating oil to make the process easier and more efficient for them. Mark Askew, Chief Executive of FPS, said: “The Code of Practice has taken time to implement but we have ensured that we have consulted with consumer groups so the consumer has their say as well as

ensuring DECC and the OFT are happy with the proposed Code. “The FPS will act as guardians of standards for the oil distribution industry and through this Code of Practice we will set those standards and show we take them seriously. Having a Code of Practice in place for FPS members will give the public reassurance that they are dealing with companies who are adhering to best practice.” The FPS has more than 180 members who distribute heating oil across the UK and the Republic of Ireland. Its Customer Charter explains what customers can expect from FPS member distributors in terms of pricing, delivery and payment. “Every FPS member should offer clear pricing and delivery guidance to customers at the time of ordering, and the new charter explains all this,” Mark Askew added. “As well as providing information on the different ways to place an order, members should advise on matters such as the right to cancel and what to do when something goes wrong. We are doing everything we can to ensure the customer experience is a positive one.” To read a copy of the new Code of Practice and Customer Charter visit www.fpsonline.co.uk/codeofpracti ce.asp

34 | Farming Monthly | October 2013

engage with consumers on a fair and consistent basis and implement best practice to raise standards. I would also encourage households to save money on heating by using the Government’s Green Deal, which offers a way to pay for energy efficiency measures such as condensing oil boilers and insulation through savings on their energy bills. Customers on a low income or in a hard-to-insulate property may be able get additional support through the Energy Company Obligation.” There are other measures consumers can adopt to make buying heating oil more efficient and cost-effective. The Citizens Advice Bureau can provide people with information on accessing any benefits and support they’re entitled to. And the website www.oilsave.org.uk lists local distributors so consumers can ring round suppliers in their area to find the best deal and work out a suitable payment plan. Mark Askew, Chief Executive of

FPS, says: “There are steps people can take if they’re worried about the cost of oil, and by planning ahead for this winter payments can be spread across the year. “Cold weather can arrive without warning and if your oil supplies run low, you may not have enough to keep you warm while you wait for more to arrive. This is particularly true in rural areas where distribution can be delayed by cold weather. “While it’s easy to put off ordering oil for heating until the temperatures actually plummet, especially as we’ve enjoyed such a long warm summer, it’s so important that consumers take action now and don’t leave it until it’s too late.” FPS’s Buy Oil Early Campaign is currently underway, encouraging consumers to prepare for winter today by buying their heating oil now when demand and cost are both lower. To find out more about FPS and its latest campaign, visit www.oilsave.org.uk

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| Fuels

Are you and your tanks legal and ready for winter? Stricter adherence to oil storage and pollution prevention legislation is clearly evident right now, as recent prosecutions have shown. Are you satisfied that all of your oil storage and dispensing meets with legal (and insurance) requirements? ere are some suggestions for your check list: Are all tanks and oil properly bunded? All dispensing diesel tanks (red or white) should be bunded and to meet The Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) (England) Regulations 2001 (OSR) and, for farms, the Water Resources (Control of Pollution) (Silage, Slurry and Agricultural Fuel Oil) Regulations 2010 (SSAFO) apply if the total fuel oil stored on a farm exceeds 1500 litres - and that should mean most farms! (Obtain the Fact Sheet 6: for farmers – Fuel Oil Storage from the Environment Agency for detailed guidance and also check out the EA’s Pollution Prevention Guidelines (PPG2). Although properly bunded gravity hose dispensing is legal, it is not deemed as preferable; thieves could break a valve off and the whole tank contents be released. So, a bund should be constructed large enough to contain 110% of the tank capacity with walls impermeable to oil and fuel. It should also have a 20 year life

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expectancy with maintenance. You’d need to ensure that if a valve were to be broken off that the contents would actually fall into the bund. A full tank would create enough pressure on discharge to make the contents spray straight out! Ideally a top inlet, top outlet tank with a powered pump should be installed, thereby preventing any accidental discharge. Are my tanks safe to deliver to? Unsafe delivery reports and insurance concerns have highlighted that there are still many tanks that are not safe to deliver to. Tanker drivers are not permitted to make “unsafe” fuel deliveries. This could mean to tanks that are old, rusty, leaking, unstable or put drivers at risk trying to access a fill point e.g climbing ladder. Do I have enough capacity? A bad winter can mean delayed fuel and oil deliveries. Are your tanks large enough to see you through such periods? Popular sizes of tanks are 2500 and 5000 litres and, up until recently, there was a big gap to either 9000 or

10,000 litres capacity. Carbery have come up with a handy solution with their 6000 litre Fuel Points. These give you an increased capacity with the ability to take 5000 litre deliveries….usually at a cost saving! Carbery 6000 Fuel Points start at just £2399 plus VAT from Bundedtanks.com. Are my tanks serviced and inspected? Check your insurance requirements. Many companies are now insisting on annual inspections / servicing to satisfy insurance demands. Bundedtanks.com offers such services nationwide (and at discounted prices with a tank order!) Is vandalism or security an issue? Bundedtanks.com offers a range of steel tanks (and can build to pretty much to any shape / size up to 80,000 litres capacity). Tanks can be either standard or heavy duty for extra security. Is my AdBlue storage and dispensing satisfactory? More and more farms need

AdBlue and there are a number of storage and dispensing systems available. Bundedtanks.com offers suitably refurbished IBC’s delivered for only £69 plus VAT. They have a range of pumps and the very handy CEMO AdBlue portable dispensing tanks too. Do I have alarms, locks and spill kits? Alarms, locks and contents gauges, many remote reading) are available from Bundedtanks.com together with spill kits. Contact Bundedtanks.com on Tel: 0845 600 3572, visit www.bundedtanks.com or E-mail: info@bundedtanks.com

October 2013 | Farming Monthly | 35

| Sheep

SCOPS urges sheep farmers to take a 'buyer beware' approach to protect their flocks this autumn Hundreds of thousands of breeding and store sheep will move around the UK every month this autumn, taking with them a number of serious threats to the health and future profitability of the flocks they join. Yet most sheep farmers will do little if anything to minimise the risks and many could pay a heavy price. eter Baber, sheep breeder and Chairman of SCOPS, says: "It doesn't matter that they look well, they were a top priced pen or even from a known source, they still carry the potential to wreak havoc. There is a long list of potential threats, including sheep scab, lice, resistant roundworms and liver fluke, not to mention CODD, footrot and orf. Most of these you

cannot see, so my policy is never to take any chances. I always isolate all in-coming sheep and implement the full quarantine recommendations." Charles Sercombe, NFU representative on SCOPS and also a sheep farmer, acknowledges that implementing an effective quarantine policy takes time and costs money. "But this is nothing compared to the cost of importing

SCOPS advice There are three elements involved in effective quarantine: Isolate (quarantine) in-coming stock. Yard for the first 24-48 hours and then keep them isolated from the resident flock for as long as possible, three weeks being the absolute minimum, so that there is time to watch for CODD, orf etc. to develop before mixing. Treat the sheep against the unseen threats from parasites (see below) while they are yarded. Liver fluke may also need to be considered (see www.scops.org.uk for more information). Maintain isolation but make sure they are turned out to an area that has carried sheep this season after treatments (without snail habits if in between fluke treatments) for the remainder of their quarantine. Quarantine treatment Drench with a wormer from either the 4-AD or 5-SI groups + Inject with moxidectin 1%

• 4-AD is monepantel (Zolvix™); 5-SI is derquantel + abamectin (Startect™). • If sheep have, or will be given Footvax, product contraindiction requires that the moxidectin 1% is replaced. Suitable products are either 2% moxidectin or doramectin or plunge dipping in an OP. If the dipping + 4-AD option is used then a moxidectin drench should also be given. • In the case of short-keep store lambs, withdrawal periods can be an issue and the only option in terms of sheep scab may be to ensure incoming lambs are kept away from the rest of the flock, including avoiding contact with vehicles, equipment etc. • Visit www.scops.org.uk for more information on all aspects of sustainable parasite control in sheep.

one or more of these problems," he says. "Sheep scab can take up to six months to show its hand, by which time the majority of the breeding ewes in a flock will be

affected, along with young lambs – not a pleasant prospect, very difficult and expensive to deal with and devastating for performance."

NSA expands its team to benefit members The National Sheep Association (NSA) is excited to be expanding its team at the Sheep Centre, Malvern, Worcestershire, in order to better service its membership base of sheep farmers throughout the UK. he new member of the team will expand, develop and organise up-to-date and best practice information for NSA members via the organisation’s well-established communication routes, including a recently rebranded Sheep Farmer magazine. Phil Stocker, NSA Chief Executive, says: “The NSA team works incredibly hard to ensure we punch above our weight in representing the sheep sector to Government and nonGovernmental bodies, as well as providing top notch information to help our members run their sheep farming businesses. With our ongoing recruitment campaign to grow our membership base it has become evident that we need another team member to further develop our work supporting sheep farmers. “This new member of staff will also work on exciting projects,

including our dedicated service for young people in the sheep sector – NSA Next Generation – and so we feel confident that expanding our team with strengthen many elements of our work and provide direct benefits to our members. We welcome people to contact us for more information – and encourage farmers and others to spread the word to anyone they feel would be suitable for the position.” The NSA is looking for the right candidate to take the full-time position of Communications Officer and work on a mixture of stand-alone projects and support of existing work to further strengthen NSA’s profile, both inprint, online and at events. For more information call 01684 892661 or email enquiries@nationalsheep.org.uk. Applications close on 31st October 2013.

36 | Farming Monthly | October 2013

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| Potatoes

Supply chain backs fight to retain CIPC The fresh and processed potato supply chains have given their backing to the ‘Be CIPC Compliant’ stewardship initiative. he Potato Processor’s Association (PPA), the Fresh Potatoes Suppliers Association (FPSA), and the contractor’s industry body NAAC, have joined the potato farming industry in voicing their support for the long term retention of the sprout suppressant chlorpropham (CIPC). “For the long term storage of processing potatoes, the industry is totally dependent upon CIPC. The sector would witness devastation if potatoes weren’t supplied for 52 weeks of the year,” says the PPA’s Director-General Richard Harris, emphasising the importance of stewardship and the key role that PPA member companies have played in ensuring uptake of CIPC best practice advice by processing growers. David Walker, Chairman of FPSA noted that whilst cold storage and alternatives play a more significant role in sprout suppression in the fresh potatoes sector, he describes CIPC as ‘critical’. “There is no complete alternative solution,” he says. Both the PPA and FPSA have

made a commitment to only sourcing potatoes from CIPC Compliant stores, meaning stores treated by an audited NAAC applicator. The associations’ members will not enter into a contract with a grower unless they are a member of the Assured Produce Scheme, and can demonstrate storage facilities that meet the requirements demanded for good fogging practice. “It’s an issue that we are taking immensely seriously,” added David. “Any potato residue issue becomes the supply chain’s responsibility. It’s a real concern, and we are fully supportive of ‘Be CIPC Compliant’; it is so obviously in our members’ interests.” In addition, there is a new and strengthening protocol for Red Tractor Farm Assurance (RTFA) that incorporates new CIPC best practice measures, including a compulsory store check prior to use. Contractor’s role Nick Green of the NAAC believes the formation of the CIPC Applicators’ Group is a major step forward in bringing fogging contractors and applicators

together. “We have made a joint commitment to uphold the regulations and to comply with best practice. “This means that we intend to stick together, and we are prepared to say ‘no’ to treatment if another audited contractor has refused to treat a store.” The supply chain commitment has come as new label recommendations have been introduced for the 2013 storage season. They state that: - CIPC must be applied within three weeks of harvest, or at the earliest occasion thereafter, even in the absence of signs of breaking dormancy; that - in cold stores, CIPC should only be used once, with applications carried out before temperature is reduced below 7oC. And a further change is to require fans to recirculate store air for at least six hours before CIPC application, without cooling – to reduce temperature gradients and reduce the risk of condensation. Positive ventilation is now recommended in all store types for treatment. While this is not possible in many stores, it is a likely area for regulatory control.

Crop owners are reminded that they have the ultimate responsibility for their crops and all CIPC related activities to ensure compliance with the Maximum Residue Level (MRL). The stewardship group’s store checklist (available from www.CIPCcompliant.co.uk) helps ensure stores are assessed correctly. For information about the fogging applicators signed up to the NAAC group visit www.naac.co.uk Also see the ‘Be CIPC Compliant’ document from the home page of www.CIPCcompliant.co.uk

Department of Health promotes potatoes Potato Council has successfully demonstrated the significant health benefits of fresh potatoes to Government, which has resulted in a recommendation on the Department of Health ‘NHS Choices’ website. The site now lists potatoes in their skins as a good source of fibre, alongside wholegrains. n addition, the ‘Change4Life’ website has doubled the number of potato-based recipes by including a range of inspiring and balanced meal ideas, supplied by Potato Council. Featuring jackets, salads and curries, the appealing recipes can be downloaded directly from http://www.nhs.uk/change4life/ through the ‘recipe finder’ and ‘meal mixer’ tools in the Eat Well section. Complete with full nutritional information, the recipes showcase the versatility of potatoes and encourage families to incorporate them as a regular part of meal times. Caroline Evans, Potato Council head of marketing and corporate affairs, said: “Health is a real focus for this year, as we look to dispel common misconceptions about potatoes. Having presented factual evidence which demonstrates that potatoes are both a nutrient-rich and sustainable product, the Government has taken a huge step in acknowledging the benefits

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they provide. This exciting development will give families reassurance and equip them with the knowledge that potatoes can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.” The activity is part of Potato Council’s marketing strategy to inform and build relationships with opinion leaders, in order to promote the national crop and the efforts of the industry. Public Health Minister Anna Soubry said: “Potatoes are classed as a starchy food and the Department promotes potatoes as an important part of a healthy balanced diet. They provide a great source of energy, fibre, vitamins and potassium in our diets. “I am pleased that we have worked closely with the Potato Council to provide healthier recipes for families. Potatoes will continue to feature in our healthy eating recipes as part of the Government’s Change4Life campaigns, as well as on the NHS Choices website.”

Additional Potato Council activity to drive awareness for the health credentials of the crop (a naturally fat free source of fibre and vitamin B6) has included advertising

across major food websites and social media sites, increasing traffic to the nutritional and recipe pages on www.lovepotatoes.co.uk.

October 2013 | Farming Monthly | 37

| Tillage

Excellent turnout for Tillage-Live – UK’s cultivations and crop establishment event Perfect conditions for cultivations and better than expected harvest results brought an excellent turnout of farmers and contractors eager to invest in new equipment to Tillage-Live, the National Cultivations Event, on Wednesday 11th September. ast winter’s atrocious conditions remained at the front of mind, prompting many discussions around broadening machinery line-ups and increasing flexibility. Pleasing harvest results ensured spending was not hampered, with numerous exhibitors reporting buoyant sales. More than 1400 visitors came to see working demonstrations of equipment from virtually all the main manufacturers in the UK. The Knowledge Trail, now in its third year, was very well received. The 80ha limestone brash site at West Hall Farm, Welton, near Lincoln, kindly made available by JJR Farms, provided ideal conditions for implements being demonstrated on 0.5ha to 2ha plots. “After last year’s very challenging autumn visitors were very keen to seek new kit to help them cope with adverse conditions, remove soil damage from last winter, and improve crop establishment in future,” says Duncan Russell, AEA Services Manager and event organiser. “They were not disappointed, with non-stop action on the working demo plots from 8am to 3pm. The Knowledge Trail was busy all day too, giving visitors additional,

useful information.” A central demonstration arena featured non-stop demonstrations of a wide range of equipment beside static exhibits at the heart of the event, attracting up to 200 visitors at a time to see the action. There was plenty to see all around the site, with over 30 exhibitors demonstrating on their own large demo plots and new machines being launched or making their UK debut at the event. “Exhibitors reported very strong interest from visitors, which can probably be attributed to the better than expected harvest and good progress this autumn,” adds Mr Russell. “Farmers and contractors were clearly making buying decisions. “The varying approaches to strip tillage attracted a lot of attention, with a noticeable increase in the range of equipment working behind medium sized tractors, not just those with the highest horsepower,” he adds. The need to protect existing crop protection products was highlighted in the Knowledge Trail, where participants were brought up to date with the Get Pelletwise initiative from the Metaldehyde Stewardship Group, which aims to protect this key slug control

38 | Farming Monthly | October 2013

option, and the Say No to Drift campaign to protect key insecticide chlorpyriphos. Fears over the rise of broadleaved weed resistance to ALS herbicides, including sulfonylureas, were also aired, with farmers invited to register cases of problematic control, and learn how best to avoid problems, with event sponsor BASF. Improving the efficiency of farm operations was another theme, with Knowledge Trail stations addressing soil structure, autosteer and guidance systems, precision operations, maize establishment on arable farms for

anaerobic digestion, and spray container rinsing. In the sprayers area as well as being able to discuss the latest machine features, suitably qualified operators were able to get behind the wheel in a tailored demonstration area. Don’t miss out on next year’s event Plans for Tillage-Live 2014 are already underway. The event is scheduled for 10th September 2014 in Gloucestershire, with a similar format and Knowledge Trail geared to farmers’ needs.

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| Diet Feeders

New additions to Hi-Spec Vertical Feeder range Hi-Spec Engineering Co Ltd one of the widest range of Vertical Auger and paddle type feeder ranges on the market. For 2013, Hi-Spec has both expanded its range of Vertical Auger feeders and also developed a new mixing auger for improved mix performance. ased in Ireland, Hi-Spec Engineering specialise in the manufacture of machinery for the livestock market, in particular auger and paddle type diet feeders and an extensive range of vacuum tankers and manure spreaders. A particular feature of Hi-Spec machinery is the wide range of options available, enabling the company to effectively tailor a machine to a customerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s specific needs. This is especially the case with diet feeders, where Hi-Spec offer one of the widest range of feed-out options available of any machine on the market, ensuring that there is an option to suit all types of building and feeding system. Vertical Auger feeder developments The Hi-Spec range of Vertical Auger Feeders use a single central or twin mixing and chopping augers that are designed to provide an even, consistent mix in the shortest possible time. A particular feature of the Hi-Spec Vertical Auger feeder is its ability to quickly and easily chop and mix complete silage and straw bales, giving the user complete flexibility as to the feedstock used within the diet mix. For 2013, Hi-Spec has developed a new design of auger that offers even greater mix performance. To achieve this, the pitch on the new design of auger has been reduced and is fitted with eight self-sharpening knives, one of

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which runs close to the body of the Vertical Feeder. This ensures that once the mix is drawn up by the auger, as it falls back down the side it continues to be chopped and mixed, ensuring a quick and thorough mix can be consistently achieved. This is especially important where bales are being used within the mix and ensures that the bale contents can be quickly and evenly incorporated into the mix in the least possible time and with minimum power input. Hi-Spec Vertical Feeders are available in a wide range of sizes and an extensive range of options are available. Recent additions to the standard range of single and Twin auger machines, include a new single auger 7 cubic metre capacity machine, the V7, for smaller livestock producers, whilst in the twin auger range there is also now the option of new 18 and 27 cubic metre models, the V18 and V27. Variable Height Discharge conveyor A key feature of the Hi-Spec Vertical Auger range is the ease with which the feeder is able to handle both clamp, but more importantly baled silage or straw, and is able to quickly and efficiently break up and thoroughly mix the ration, so keeping mixing time to a minimum, hence reducing costs. The VHD conveyor is compact and provides the user with complete flexibility when it comes

to feeding out and is ideal in a system where forage is maybe being fed over feed barriers of differing height or even into feed rings. The VHD conveyor comprises of a modular conveyor belt and elevator, which can be extended out either side of the feeder by up to 26cm, making it ideal for central feed passages where turning round is difficult.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Hi-Spec Vertical Feeders are available in a wide range of sizes and an extensive range of options are available.â&#x20AC;? Using the integrated elevator on either end of the conveyor, depending on wheel equipment the discharge height can be varied from as little as 0.9 metres at maximum reach, up to 1.5 metres so enabling the mix to be easily and accurately fed out over railings or even into feed rings.

October 2013 | Farming Monthly | 39

| Diet Feeders Bedding time â&#x20AC;&#x201C; straw consumption has plummeted from 22 to just nine bales a week in winter thanks largely to the shredding and spreading action of the Tomahawk

Jeff Gibson demonst on the Teagle Tomah

40 | Farming Monthly | October 2013

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| Diet Feeders

Teagle Tomahawk proves its efficiency Cattle husbandry on a Kent beef unit has been streamlined by using a bale shredder to dispense forage and bedding into cattle yards – and it has cut straw use by more than half.

trates the optional Digi-Star weighing system hawk 1010 feeder-bedder with almost 1500kg of straw on board

e started feeding forage maize in addition to baled grass silage last winter and wanted a versatile machine that could efficiently mix and dispense the feed,” explains Jeff Gibson, who farms near Canterbury, Kent. “I tried two different tub-type feeders to process silage bales and found they were slow and fuel hungry. “The Tomahawk does the job easily more or less on tick-over at the same time as dispensing the ration, so it’s a quick process,” he adds. “It’s also a more versatile machine because we use it for strawing the cattle yard and our outdoor pig arcs as well.”

The beef unit is managed to finish half a dozen Aberdeen Angus cross cattle a month purely on grass from high protein twoyear leys or a combination of maize and grass silage. No concentrates are used because eating quality, resulting from a relatively slow growth rate that lays down some marbling in the meat, is given priority over output. Cattle are slaughtered just a couple of miles away and prepared in-house for the counter and café at Gibson’s Farm Shop. Using the Teagle Tomahawk feeder-bedder is helping to maximise returns by regulating the ration and minimising straw usage. In dry weather, the cattle are bedded on three 1.5m round bales of straw every two days, carried in the 10cu m Tomahawk from the home farm to rented buildings a little over two miles away. It then loads up with 3.5 tonnes of forage – grass alone in bales stored on-site or with maize when the mixed ration is being fed. “I half fill the machine with clamped maize using a shear

grab, then take bites out of silage bales and add them on top,” explains Jeff Gibson. “The shredding drums do a pretty good job of chopping and mixing – and although they may not mix as thoroughly as a diet feeder, the machine does produce a nice open feed that the cattle tuck into.” Introducing forage maize has resulted in a higher proportion of meat on larger, heavier carcases. The proportions of maize and grass need to be accurately balance – and the correct amount put out to minimise wastage – so the onboard weighing system is a handy option. “It’s certainly better than guessing – and it could be used to accurately record forage and straw consumption if we wanted to,” Jeff Gibson points out. The Digi-Star weighing system option was introduced by Teagle last year to cater for producers wanting an accurate record of bedding and/or forage use for their own management records or to help charge accurately for cattle ‘bed and breakfast’ operations.

Weigh cells on the axle and drawbar feed data to a large digital display visible when loading to help assemble the correct quantities of ingredients in a mixed ration and to the tractor driver when dispensing the feed. The factory-installed system adds £2500-£2700 to the £24,220£25,450 list price of a Tomahawk 1010. Big savings in straw usage within the half covered yards have resulted from the Tomahawk’s shredding system; and blowing the material is certainly more efficient than driving in with a tractor and loader, then shaking straw off the grab. “We used a lot of straw simply to keep the tractor on top of the muck but shredding and blowing makes a real difference,” says Mr Gibson. “In winter, we were using 22 bales a week; now we’re down to nine. “In total,” he adds, “we’re using about 100 acres’ less straw and, of course, there’s less dung to dig out and spread when we clear the yards.”

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call us: 01872 560592 or visit: www.teagle.co.uk www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

October 2013 | Farming Monthly | 41

| Grain

All the latest post harvest technology at UK Grain UK Grain, now in its seventh year, takes place on 6 November at the Peterborough Arena. he event provides visitors with the opportunity to consider storage handling, drying and marketing requirements. As well as offering free independent advice there will be topical clinics and seminars and an exhibition of the latest equipment for grain storage and handling. Andy Newbold, of event organiser FarmSmart, says: “UK Grain has become an important event for everyone in the grain business. It looks at all the issues post-harvest and allows farmers to access the best advice and view the latest equipment on offer to help them deliver grain at the quality and specification that will ensure they get the best prices.” The exhibition will showcase every aspect of grain storage from monitoring and drying to marketing. The seminar programme includes Martin Savage of NABIM looking at the quality of supply chains and a grain market update for AHDB markets analyst, Lloyd Dixon. Also on the programme will be Dr Ellie Marshall from HGCA who will be reviewing the quality of the

2013 harvest and David Cross from Rentokil, the world’s leading commercial pest control company, will be talking about ways to reduce the risk of pests in your grain store. Participants at the seminars will be able to gain CPD points for NRoSO and BASIS. Farmer James Price from Perdiswell Farm, Oxon, winner of the 2011 NABIM Milling wheat Award and a former FW Young Farmer of the Year, will be discussing: “Grain storage, a farmer’s view on the why’s and why not’s”. In addition there will be a GrainStorm area where visitors can talk one-to-one on specificissues with industry experts - from grain quality sampling to identifying different pests. Whether farmers are looking to renew, update or adapt their grain handling and storage facilities UK Grain will provide them with the information and advice to make the right choices.

42 | Farming Monthly | October 2013

Facts: Date: 6 November 2013 09.00 to 16.00 hrs Venue: Peterborough Arena, East of England Showground, Peterborough, PE2 6XE Tickets: £10 by pre-booking on line at www.farm-smart.co.uk/ukgrain or by telephone on 0845 4900 142, email info@farm-smart.co.uk. Tickets on the day are £15

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| Grain

New generation of Master Driers The new range of Master Driers that have just been released and will be on show at the ‘UK Grain event,’ to be held at Peterborough on November 6, incorporate many new features. he popular 12 Ton Model is fully galvanised and the whole range introduces ‘New Age’ Technology, which can be personalised to meet individual requirements, with capacities from 10 Ton - 45 Ton and flexibility in specification. The principle of drying remains the same, but, the emphasis has been to make Master Driers ‘user’ friendly. They offer efficient drying and simplified operation with manual or automatic programmes. The new operating systems are incorporated in both the Electric and PTO driven Driers. These operating systems include an Audible Alarm or Auto ‘Cut Off’ which will alert the Operator when the Drier is loaded, to avoid overflow of grain. Also included is an internal Moisture Meter for monitoring temperature and moisture. The Master Eye Telephone Combinator Messaging System will keep you in touch with your Drier, alerting the operator when drying is complete or if the Drier is in need of attention.

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One unique feature option available on all models is the “3 Stage Burner”. It is designed with three fuel nozzles which operate in any sequence to give a wide range of temperatures. The main advantage is that it is not necessary to change the fuel jet which simplifies the operation of the burner when drying different crops. This gives greater efficiency and is less time consuming than a two stage system. Electric Drive Models are becoming more popular as they can be fully automated and are operated by a small Siemens PLC Unit with ‘Touch screen’ controls. Incorporating a comprehensive menu control panel which gives the Operator many options depending on the crop being handled, allowing for burner ‘operating control’ and ‘top up’ facilities to compensate for shrinkage. All programmes are offered with full Automatic Mastermatic ‘Touch’ Screen Control System with manual override, all of which allows the crop to be dried to meet individual

circumstances. Masters have also introduced a new range of competively priced square section fully galvanised wet grain bins to complement its range of grain driers. These are available from 3 – 30 Ton capacities and are supplied as a flat ‘self-assembly’ kit.

For more information on the New Generation of Master Driers please check out our web site www.masterfarm.co.uk.

53rd European Commodities Exchange Paris to host the first international grain event. n 10 and 11 October 2013, Paris will become the host city of the international grain sector. Taking place annually in a different European metropolis, the European Commodities Exchange is the largest international event for the grain trade. More than 3,000 international professionals from 50 countries are expected in the French capital in 14 days from upstream and to downstream of the production grain chain: traders, producers, crushers, collectors, brokers, distributors, retailers, superintendents and providers of logistics. “The 53rd European Commodities Exchange in Paris is a strategic crossroads for the future of the grain sector. This exceptional event is the 2013 gathering for debates and exchanges between the various operators of the sector in order to look at new opportunities on the world grain market and agribusiness. France and Europe must remain leading players of the world agricultural market and this issue will be at the center of the discussions this year”, explains Baudouin Delforge, President of the General Union of the Paris Commodities Exchange. This year, the organizer of the event, the General Union of the

Paris Commodities Exchange, prepared a complete two-day programme of exhibition, conference and exceptional Gala dinner event at the at Château de Versailles providing professional visitors a great face to face opportunity to meet, take stock of current campaign and consolidate relationships with more than 137 exhibiting companies from the grain sector. Organized in partnership with the company Syngenta, the opening conference will take place on October 10th at the Palais des Congrès in Paris city: ‘’What is the role played by European agriculture on the world stage? Economic and strategic outlook for the grain sector?’’ This major opening event will be chaired by Stephane Le Foll, French Minister for Agriculture, in the presence of Denis Tardy, President of Syngenta France, John Atkin, CEO of Syngenta, Nicolas Bouzou, economist and advisor to the French Prime Minister, and representatives of importing countries and industries. Follow the 53rd European Commodities Exchange on Twitter @ECE_Paris2013 and on the website www.eceparis2013.eu

October 2013 | Farming Monthly | 43

| Grain

Grain fumigations BPCA Technical Manager, Richard Moseley explains how to ensure your stock levels are maintained. e are all aware of the damage that rats can do to stored crops. For every kilo of product consumed by rodents, 10 kilo of produce destined for human or animal consumption is contaminated with their urine and droppings, rendering it useless. But what can be the results of insect infestation on an already reduced harvest?

â&#x20AC;&#x153;When you have fumigation carried out on site by a trained operator, it is essential that you follow the advice and instruction of the company to ensure that the fumigation is ultimately successful without putting people on site at risk. You should never remove sheets or enter fumigation areas before they have been declared safe.â&#x20AC;? Infestations of grain pests such

as the Saw Tooth Grain Beetle and Grain Weevil can be devastating. Unchecked infestations will decimate stored grain and render it useless. As always, in such situations, prevention is better than cure. By cooling the grain to temperatures of 15C you can slow down and eventually stop insect breeding and development. Complement the cooling of grain with regular inspections to product and storage areas by a suitably qualified person (RSPH/BPCA Level 2 Award in Pest Management), and you will ensure that infestation will be spotted early and that insect activity can be dealt with before any major damage occurs. If you do find evidence of insects, rapid action is required and fumigation with a metallic phosphide will usually be the most suitable course of action. However, remember that the fumigants currently available for fumigating grain are highly toxic and can kill. There is no antidote to phosphine, the gas that is released by metallic phosphides and in the hand of an unskilled operator, these products

can be deadly. It is essential that

you put the process of fumigation in the hands of a skilled contractor who understands the pest, the product and the treatment site. This will ensure that you, your staff and your animals remain safe during the fumigation process. When you require the services of a Fumigator to inspect or treat grain, always use a Fumigator who holds the British Pest Control Association (BPCA) Certificate of Proficiency for Fumigation Operators, and whom is preferably a current full servicing member of BPCA. Our members meet strict membership criteria and are regularly assessed, and our training is recognised by the Health and Safety Executive Chemical Regulations Directorate.

44 | Farming Monthly | October 2013

When you have fumigation

carried out on site by a trained operator, it is essential that you follow the advice and instruction of the company to ensure that the fumigation is ultimately successful without putting people on site at risk. You should never remove sheets or enter fumigation areas before they have been declared safe. Further information Should you require further information on BPCA Fumigators in your areas, or to ensure that your current Fumigator is suitably qualified to carry out the work they are doing, please contact the British Pest Control Association on 01332 294288 / or visit www.bpca.org.uk

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Grain

The AHDB Crop Research Conference Combating future pest, weed and disease threats to UK agriculture was the subject of a scientific conference held on Wednesday 25 September in London, which was attended by around 170 delegates.

he AHDB Crop Research Conference brought together researchers and the agricultural industry in a debate to take the latest research out of the laboratory and into the field. There were also more than twenty entries into a PhD poster competition, which showcased the work of up-and-coming researchers specialising in crop protection. MP David Willetts, Minister for Universities and Science, emphasised how the aims of the conference chimed with the new Agri-Tech Strategy: “An area of science where Britain is extraordinarily strong is in our agricultural research and it’s great to see at this conference exciting and innovative scientific research. “We are going to keep on backing upstream science and we are going to put a bit more effort and a bit more resource behind translating that into practice.” Throughout the event, speakers emphasised that crop protection is an evolutionary battle with an enemy that can rapidly evolve and overcome control measures. “Evolution is a very powerful opponent, so we need diversity in several ways to counter it; genetic diversity in crops, technological diversity on farms and diversity of scientific interest, which will give novel approaches to crop protection,” said AHDB’s Chief Scientist Ian Crute. Diversity of scientific interest was well represented in the poster competition. Rachel Goddard of the John Innes Centre won first prize for her work on an alternative

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dwarfing gene in cereal crops, which may offer improved disease resistance. Massimo Rutolo was runner-up for work on using electronic noses to detect storage diseases in potatoes. Louise Gamble was also runner-up for research into rhynchosporium disease of barley. Other speakers were optimistic that new technology will open the door for more resilient crop protection by telling us more about target organisms. Professor John Lucas of Rothamsted Research, who presented in session two, championed this view. “We are in react mode too often, we need to get more proactive and use genomic techniques to try and work out what the pathogen will do next,” he said. Another key theme of the Conference was how to monitor pest and disease risk effectively. Dr Rick Mumford of Fera and Dr Stephen Parnell of Rothamsted Research both had interesting views on this. They identified three challenges; developing simple to use tests, having robust disease models and being aware of emerging disease threats before they become serious. Research resources are already committed to this field but it is likely to be a growth area in the years ahead. “The recently unveiled Agri-Tech Strategy is a great opportunity to turn the cutting-edge science seen at the conference into a practical reality,” commented Dr Susannah Bolton, Head of Research and KT for cereals and oilseeds at AHDB. “The next step is to make sure that the novel approaches we’ve

seen today become part of our research strategy, and that we continue to get better at technology and knowledge transfer to the field.” Full presentations from the

conference are available at hgca.com/research. An extended article about the presentations and outcomes of the event will be available on the HGCA website in the coming weeks.

October 2013 | Farming Monthly | 45

| Pests

Pest control in agriculture Often when we consider pest species on farms, we automatically think of rodents due to their ability to transfer diseases from pest to man and pest to animal. However, some pest species do not automatically cause a potential risk to health, but in the right circumstances they can still be incredibly destructive to your land, crop, livestock or property. BPCA Technical Manager Richard Moseley explains why farmers should consider their pest control strategy this autumn. fter spending a considerable amount of time and money ensuring the crop in the field has been cared for in such a way as to maximise quality and yield, no doubt farmers will want to make sure that whilst in storage, the crop remains in tip top condition ready for sale. With this in mind, it’s important to take a step back and consider how you can prevent and control those core pests that are potentially causing the most damage to your business. Rodents Rats and mice can inflict a great amount of structural damage as well as being a health hazard. They have been known to gnaw the insulation from electrical cables, create flooding by

puncturing pipes, and even chew holes in gas pipes. Rodents require three things – food, water and harbourage. By using the following good housekeeping techniques it should be possible to keep your premises rodent free: Minimise the attractiveness of food storage/ preparation areas by ensuring that all areas are kept clean and that any gaps into buildings or storage areas are filled. Outdoors, don’t forget waste disposal areas close to your farm buildings. Rubbish should be kept in metal bins with close-fitting lids to prevent access by rodents and flies. Remove rubbish and piles of discarded vegetation. Rats are neophobic - they do not like new items and changes to

New slug publication With drilling well underway and weather conditions turning increasingly autumnal, HGCA and Potato Council have issued a new Information Sheet to assist with integrated slug control. he new publication has been designed to promote the use of integrated slug control measures in oilseed rape, cereals and potatoes. It replaces HGCA Topic Sheets 84, 85 and 88. It also includes the latest information from the Metaldehyde Stewardship Group. It is well known that the targeted use of slug pellets guards the vulnerable early stages of newly sown crops, but pellets must be applied with caution to help ensure the continued use of metaldehydebased products. Metaldehyde is the active ingredient most commonly found in slug pellets but when it gets into water supplies it is very difficult to remove. Unless action is taken, regulatory

their environment. Take rats out of their 'comfort zone' by removing piles of scrap wood, gathered leaves, boards, pipes and abandoned equipment where rodents can hide. Cut back weeds and clutter around buildings where possible. To keep rodents from entering a building, fix and replace cracked or broken doors and windows and keep drains and drain covers in a good state of repair. Proofing involves using physical barriers at specific points where pests are most likely to gain access to a building, for example from sewers via a drain. Rats and mice can squeeze through very small gaps within a building; spaces between the floors and ceilings, behind skirting boards, ducts and conduits, and timber and plastic casings to pipes and cables all provide perfect areas for harbourage. There are several ways to spot if rats or mice are present. Mice

produce between 40-100 droppings daily, 3-7mm long. Rats average 40-50 droppings a day, each roughly 13-19mm. In a large infestation, a strong odour may be detected from the rodent’s urine, and shredded paper or burrows outdoors may indicate nests. If you do spot signs of an infestation, particularly within a roof space, it is imperative that your suspicions are confirmed by a professional; to the untrained eye, the droppings of bats can look very similar to mice droppings. While pest prevention can be common sense, effective pest control requires in depth knowledge of the biology and behaviour of the pest in question, knowledge of the relevant legislation and also experience of which professional product will be most effective. It may be tempting to save money and attempt to control an infestation yourself but if you cannot satisfy the above criteria you could make a small problem a major one.

restrictions on the use of slug pellets may be enforced. In autumn 2012, metaldehyde was frequently detected in raw (untreated) water well above the drinking water standard. With prolonged periods of heavy rain, 2012 was a particularly difficult year for slug control. With the frequency of extreme weather events increasing, the industry needs to be prepared to deal with slugs in the most environmentally responsible way possible despite the weather. The publication, which focuses on the life cycle, importance, risk, monitoring and control of slugs, also contains information on the new ‘What’s in Your Backyard’ tool and application guidelines set by the Metaldehyde Stewardship Group (MSG).

46 | Farming Monthly | October 2013

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| Pests

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October 2013 | Farming Monthly | 53

| Buildings

Winter housing Ged Ferris Marketing Manager of Cembrit outlines the importance of good ventilation and lighting for overwintering animals in farm buildings. ver-wintering livestock in closed buildings is common practice in many areas of the country. It helps keep the animals protected from the weather, while keeping conditions constant and facilitates herd management. Understanding the demands on a building of keeping livestock inside is an important part of keeping the animals healthy and productive.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Corrugated fibre cement is particularly suited to animal housing. It is less dense than steel and has an ability to absorb and slowly release this moisture over time.â&#x20AC;? A well designed building needs to be functional and long lasting and the design, installation quality and construction materials used, are all important. If the main purpose is livestock, ventilation is of crucial importance. Typically open vertical timber boards are

used on the walls (Yorkshire boarding), to allow dry air to circulate continuously. However, at the apex of the roof there are potential still/stale air pockets which also need to be ventilated. This is usually achieved by the incorporation of special accessories. Cembrit offers continuous, intermittent and open protected ridge profiles which provide the necessary aperture to allow the moist air to be vented. Cost effective interior lighting can be achieved with the inclusion of translucent sheets, stitched into the array of corrugated fibre cement sheets. This approach provides natural lighting. Cembrit provides matching translucent sheets in the most commonly used sheet lengths. Translucent sheets are usually manufactured from GRP to Class C at a density of 2.44kg/mÂ˛. The general rule is that a minimum of 10% of the roof area is translucent, although some food retailers ask for up to 20% (for welfare and energy usage reasons). This is also considered the correct ratio

48 | Farming Monthly | October 2013

for equine buildings. Fixing of translucent sheets is important and slightly different from the rest of the roof; end and side laps should be sealed with 10mm mastic beading and the sides of the roof lights should be seam stitched down along each side, at a max of 450mm centres with extra fixings to the corrugations but ideally at 300m centres. End laps to fibre cement sheet above the translucent sheets are fixed at every other corrugation, fixings to translucent sheets on intermediate purlins and to the fibre cement sheet below the translucent sheet are fixed to

every corrugation. All fixings should be 8mm diameter bolts with curved washer on the underside and red caps located in the crowns (an important safety measure to assist future trades to identify a fragile area of the roof) of the corrugations, and must not be over-tightened. Holes for GRP sheets fixings should be 2mm oversize. In addition, the building may have supplementary roles to the main purpose of sheltering animals, such as storing machinery, animal feed and chemicals which also have to be considered. This may mean that

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| Buildings open or partially opened walls are not appropriate. In this case, roof ventilation is crucial. In addition to the various ridge ventilation profiles just mentioned, Cembrit also offers special corrugated sheets with upturned corrugations on each side to allow them to be be laid with gaps in between (open spaced roofing) rather than overlapping as they would be if conventionally installed. This method of construction has an additional benefit as installation is generally faster than conventional sheeting as there is no mitring required. One of the major benefits of using corrugated fibre cement is its ability to cope with the moisture in the building. This is particularly important because the high humidity resulting from the respiration of animals creates moisture in the atmosphere which could condense on the ceiling. The colder and less porous the roof, the more rapidly the moisture will condense and form droplets which fall onto whatever is kept in the building. Metallic roofs (steel or aluminium) are prone to this. The combination of warmth, moisture and hosts/growth substrate in the form of feed or manure create a positive culture for the spread of diseases, whether infectious or fungal which can typically cause respiratory diseases, skin infections and

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distress to the creatures. These are easily transmitted and spread in this unhealthy environment.

Profile 6 takes no bull

“The building may have supplementary roles to the main purpose of sheltering animals”

Knocknagael national bull stud farm in Inverness has created a healthier environment for some of Scotland’s best breeding bulls by choosing fibre cement Profile 6 sheeting from Marley Eternit.

Corrugated fibre cement is particularly suited to animal housing. It is less dense than steel and has an ability to absorb and slowly release this moisture over time. The ingredients used in the manufacture – cellulose, manmade fibres and cement – together create a lightweight and importantly, porous building material. This porous quality makes it an ideal for such a high humidity environment as an overwintering animal shed. For an over-wintering shed, Cemsix is the ideal cost-effective roofing and cladding solution. It is versatile and durable and can help maintain the healthy environment that over-wintering demands. Cembrit can provide samples, a full range of design recommendations supporting information and even suggest agricultural frame manufacturers with the experience to construct compliant farm buildings incorporating Cemsix fibre cement corrugated sheet.

he stud farm provides a bull hire scheme for crofters to ensure they can supply quality stock to the Scottish beef industry. The fibre cement profiled sheeting specified at Knocknagael Farm is able to absorb up to 25 per cent of its dry weight in moisture before dissipating it in more favourable conditions. This reduces the issue of warm, moist air condensing on the underside, which can occur with steel roof sheets where it then drips onto livestock and bedding below. Ryan Brown, Director of Robinsons Scotland Ltd, said “We used Marley Eternit profiled sheeting because it is strong, durable and does not have any issues with maintenance. We have worked with the product for a number of years and were confident that it would be able to fulfil the brief to create a healthier environment for the bulls.” Marley Eternit profiled sheeting has an installed life expectancy of at least 50 years, even in

aggressive environments such as livestock buildings where animals’ breath is slightly acidic. Fibre cement does not contain any metallic elements and is not affected by this environment, making it a cost effective roofing solution over the longer term. Profile 6 for Knocknagael Farm was specified in Natural Grey colour. Marley Eternit offers a range of carefully chosen matt colours. Marley Eternit fibre cement profiled sheeting is the only product of its kind to be manufactured in the UK. For further information on our range of products and services just ask ME at www.marleyeternit.co.uk/profiledsheeting or call ME on 01283 722588. You can also follow ME on Twitter @MarleyEternit. If it matters to you it matters to us, that’s why with ME it’s all about you.

October 2013 | Farming Monthly | 49

| Agritechnica

Agritechnica – The world's largest trade fair Exhibition area enlarged – Unique concept for key area arrangement and visitor guidance – New: "Systems & Components" – International technical programme. gritechnica is the world's leading trade fair for agricultural machinery and equipment. The organizer DLG (Deutsche Landwirtschafts-Gesellschaft – German Agricultural Society) has recorded rising numbers of exhibitors and visitors ever since the first event in the year 1985. This year over 2,700 exhibitors from 47 countries will be presenting their new and further developments at the Exhibition Grounds in Hanover. A distinct hallmark of Agritechnica is its clear key area concept, offering visitors optimal orientation in the Exhibition Grounds. This year, as a consequence of additional demand by exhibitors, DLG has increased the trade fair area, introduced changes in hall allocations and refined the sector group concept further. This gives visitors from all over the world optimal conditions for comparing products and innovations in their specific fields of interest efficiently and easily. The concept for 2013 is based on the excellent experiences with the further developments undertaken in 2009 and 2011. These made it possible to achieve the goals of uniform distribution of visitors among the halls and optimal orientation in the grounds. The major changes are set out below: The providers in the field of "Systems & Components" will be presenting their products and services primarily in Halls 1, 2 and 3. The programme of the exhibitors from the fields of machinery and equipment for potatoes and sugar beet is located predominantly in Halls 24 and 25. Providers of feeder mixer wagons will be exhibiting their machinery and equipment mainly in Hall 25. Suppliers of services and exhibits for the fields of irrigation and sprinkler irrigation as well as for special crops and vegetable cropping will be found predominantly in Hall 21. The providers of machinery and equipment for forestry and municipal applications will be presenting their range mainly in Halls 18 and 26. The sector of energy plant production/renewable raw materials is based chiefly in Halls 21, 22 and 23. With the consistent and clear division of the individual key areas at the fair, DLG guarantees visitors a good overview and easy orientation, and allows them to make optimal use of their day at the exhibition in accordance with their own priorities. Ten entrances – Conspicuous pictographs for orientation Altogether ten entrances to the Exhibition Grounds will be set up to allow visitors to gain admission as quickly as possible and using the shortest route. In addition, there will be conspicuously marked pictographs on all signposts in the grounds, on printed information matter and at the entrances and all exhibition halls. These internationally understandable icons with German, English and Russian labelling will allow easier and faster finding of the respective sectors, providing for even better orientation, short routes and thus more time for discussions with the exhibitors. A free bus transfer is available within the grounds taking visitors to the specific halls. New – "Systems & Components"

50 | Farming Monthly | October 2013

"Systems & Components" play a decisive role for the innovative thrust of agricultural machinery and equipment and they shape concepts such as reliability, efficiency, environmental protection and safety. The distinctions between system, module, component and part suppliers reflect the real industrial production process and will be realized consistently within the individual key areas for the first time in the exhibition concept of Agritechnica 2013. The unique and complete production palette of the fields of chassis, cabs, vehicle electrics and electronics, drives, gears and transmissions, engines, hydraulics, brakes and steering, as well as the associated parts and components for the agricultural machinery sector and related segments will be on show in the new exhibition segment "Systems & Components". A highlight will be the Special "Agricultural machinery and equipment in detail". For the first time ever at a trade fair, a tractor will be dismantled live into its various assemblies and then assembled again. The Special will be flanked by a technical programme with topical technical themes. These include impulse lectures on the subjects of "Purchasing as Value Driver" and "Procurement Market Strategies". The Special is embedded in a "Systems & Components Lounge" that DLG is setting up in Hall 1 as a central marketplace with a broad range of offerings for exhibitors and visitors. Further Agritechnica Specials intensifying topical themes Together with exhibitors and partners from the fields of academia and research, consultancy and practice, DLG has set up two further Specials at Agritechnica. In Hall 17, the Special "Smart Farming – updates for plant production" is all about sensor technology, machinery controls and data management in arable farming. It offers farmers a unique orientation platform on how modern systems function on a cross-manufacturer basis, what is already on the market for practical use and what can be expected in future. In the "Rice production" Special, professional rice growers from all over the world can gather information about solutions to current challenges. Leading exhibitors will be showing modern technologies for tackling such challenges. International experts will be available to answer questions, for instance on water management, soil preparation, seeding, fertilizing, plant protection and harvesting. The language at this Special is English. Dealers and Used Machinery Centre and "Workshop Live" Arena This year Hall 2 will be established as the forum for dealers, service providers and the used machinery trade and host the International Dealer Centre, headed by the German LandBauTechnik association and the European umbrella federation CLIMMAR. It will serve as a contact forum and meeting point for all distribution and service partners of European agricultural machinery and equipment manufacturers. In addition, used machinery dealers, online exchanges and others will provide information about used machinery business. Good service facilities and specialist staff optimally trained to provide this

service are a key prerequisite for the agricultural machinery and equipment market to function. In cooperation with the LandBauTechnik association, the demands made of the different qualification stages (apprentice, service technician and master craftsman) for agricultural and construction plant mechanics will be shown in the Special "Workshop Live" with practical demonstrations of maintenance and conversion works, accompanied by an expert commentary. The training providers will also supply comprehensive information about this occupation. Forestry machinery and equipment for woodland farmers – Municipal applications – Bioenergy A large number of exhibitors are presenting classic forestry machinery and equipment for woodland farmers and a wide range of products for using wood as an energy resource in Halls 18 and 26, as well as in the adjacent open-air area. In addition to the exhibitors' range of machinery and equipment, there will also be a comprehensive programme of information from the KWF (Board of Trustees for Forestry Work and Technology), the Lower Saxony Forestry Training Centre (NFBz) and DLG in the jointly organized "Forestry and Wood Information Centre" in Hall 26. The machinery and equipment for municipal applications sector is based in the southern part of Hall 26. Here nearly 100 exhibitors will be presenting their new and further developments, for instance for summer/winter service and composting. Interested visitors will find the appropriate exhibition programme grouped together in concentrated form. Cultivating biomass for energy production remains significant. Farmers are focusing on new varieties, as well as suitable machinery and equipment for cropping and harvesting and for producing biogas. At Agritechnica interested farmers will have the opportunity to gather information about all the topical issues. A comprehensive programme will be presented, predominantly in Halls 21, 22 and 23. Here visitors can find information about energy-specific potentials and about biomass production, including conditioning, plant and system technology, labour management and cost efficiency. Forum for the future of the agricultural sector – Top-flight international technical programme With its top-flight technical programme including a large number of international events such as congresses, workshops and forums, Agritechnica is considered to be the leading forum for the future of the agricultural sector. This is where trends in machinery and equipment are shown and all major questions concerning the future of agriculture and agricultural machinery and equipment are addressed, for instance at the international conference Landtechnik organized by VDI/MEG and the international conference "Agricultural Markets 2014". A Seed Congress is also being held here again. A new feature at Agritechnica 2013 will be the international event series "Ag Machinery International: Access to Emerging Markets". The focus here on different days during the fair will be on the agricultural machinery and equipment markets in Southern

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| Agritechnica Africa, Russia, Kazakhstan and Ukraine, as well as in India and China. Market potentials, market access avenues, financial frameworks and technology requirements will be explored. Following each event there will be a gettogether with typical refreshments from the respective country, offering opportunities for initiating specific international business connections. Furthermore, the European Young Farmers and Students Day being organized by Young DLG together with national and international partners at Agritechnica 2013 is bound to attract great attention. A diverse international technical programme will also be offered in the special forums in the different exhibition halls. These will be presented in German, and in some cases also in German/English (with simultaneous interpreting). In altogether four forums representatives from academia and research, consultancy, industry and farming practice will discuss current trends and important developments of interest to the sector every day: • Forum 1 in Hall 17: Smart Farming • Forum 2 in Pavilion 35: Agricultural machinery and management • Forum 3 in Hall 26: Forestry machinery and equipment and woody biomass • Forum 4 in Hall 1: Systems & Components for purchasing officers, engineers and researchers New: International contact forum "Match & Meet" established This year's Agritechnica will feature the premiere of an international "Match & Meet" contact forum enabling initiation of cooperation arrangements and business connections. Exhibitors and visitors can register online with

their profile and their concrete search data or their offers. Supply and demand are then compared via special software and meetings at Agritechnica are arranged. DLG stands in Pavilions 32, 34 and 35 DLG will be presenting its work on its own stands in Pavilions 32, 34 and 35 for the first time this year. The three pavilions will be meeting places for DLG members and for experts from home and abroad interested in DLG's work and in establishing contacts with DLG. Spokespersons from DLG expert committees and working groups, as well as the heads of and experts from the DLG Competence Center Agriculture and the DLG Test Center Technology and Farm Inputs will be available to answer questions. This exchange of experience across sectors, generations and regions, which is typical for DLG, will form a basis for all visitors to expand their personal networks. New – International Visitors Lounge in Pavilion 35 The central meeting place for visitors from all over the world at Agritechnica 2013 will be the International Visitors Lounge. For the first time this will be located in Pavilion 35 (south of Hall 26). In the International Visitors Lounge guests from home and abroad can meet their business partners, conduct discussions and plan their tour of the exhibition. A fax service and internet connections will also be set up that visitors can use free of charge to call up their emails and contact their companies and business partners throughout the world. A special highlight – Appearance by the Peterson Farm Brothers "Fresh breeze from farming". This is the keynote of the songs performed by three young

farmers from Kansas (USA), who for some time now have been causing a sensation with selffilmed videos on their Facebook page and on the "You Tube" internet channel. With refreshing parodies of well-known songs, Greg, Nathan and Kendal Peterson describe their everyday life as farmers and thus lobby for their rural occupation in an unusual manner. In their very professional act they enthuse about modern agriculture and in doing so clear away many prejudices. This makes it possible to fire the "Generation 2.0" with enthusiasm for agriculture, illustrating it excellent themselves. Originally, the three wanted to attract their friends from the city to country life. In the meantime their videos have been clicked millions of times. Reason enough for DLG to invite the Peterson Farm Brothers to Agritechnica. From 12 to 14 November they will be presenting their songs at various appearances, including three times a day in a stage show on the DLG stand in Pavilion 35 and at the Young Farmers Party on 14 November. Detailed information about Agritechnica 2013 is available in various languages on the internet at www.agritechnica.com

BKT to unveil two new products at Agritechnica ‘13 In Hanover, the BKT stand will turn into a stage thanks to the extended products range and a spectacular surprise along with the football distribution. A 2013 top novelty is the sponsoring of a Panini sticker album dedicated to the world of agriculture. KT will be present at Agritechnica, one of the most important international exhibitions for Agricultural Machinery and Equipment. The exhibition will take place in Hanover (Germany) from 12 to 16 November 2013 and in the two exclusive preview days 10-11 November. BKT will exhibit not less than 8 tires, including two in European preview: CONSTAR, a specially designed tire for telehandlers and STAR TRAC, the ideal partner for harvesting vehicles used on cotton farms. Many new sizes have been introduced in the large BKT product range: first and foremost AgrimaxForce for high-power tractors extended by the sizes IF 710/75 R 42 and IF 650/65 R 34 in addition to the already available sizes IF 710/60 R 30, IF 710/60 R 34, IF 900/60 R 38 and IF 900/60 R 42. AgrimaxForce is the top-of-the-range radial tire developed by BKT based on the IF technology for the purpose of offering customers increasing load capacity at a lower inflation pressure compared to a standard tire. Also Agrimax Spargo expands with the new VF 1050/50 R 32 size added to the VF 380/90 R 46 one, already on the market. This tire line is particular suitable for sprayer applications and row crops. Its technology enables to support major loads by keeping the same inflation pressure compared to a standard tire of the same size. Besides, the tire design and structure have been developed for reducing soil compaction and preserve the crop yields.

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For applications on lawns and soft terrains, the Agrimax RT 600 range – launched during the last edition of SIMA in Paris in the size 800/65 R 32 – has been extended with the new size 1050/50 R 32. For trailers, BKT offers the 750/60 R 30.5 size of the FL 630 SUPER tire, as well presented in Paris last February in Paris in the 650/55 R 26.5 size. Thanks to its constructive features and the tread design, this tire is particularly suited to multipurpose use on any kind of land or on the road, where qualities like uniform drive and resistance are further highlighted. Last but not least, Agritechnica will showcase the unparalleled 480/80 R 42 Agrimax Elos, a tire for tractors operating on wet and muddy terrains. The new size adds to the 420/85 R 38 already available on the market. Two BKT branded new entries will be displayed as European preview in Hanover, then available on the reference markets by the end of this year. The Constar tire, designed for telescopic handlers in agriculture features large lugs increasing the contact surface to support very heavy loads. The Constar tire is made with a special cut and impact resistant compound. Initially, Constar will be available as 400/80 – 24. Star Trac, the new tire designed for harvesting tractors at cotton plantations, is able to support heavy loads and guarantees both excellent traction in the fields and excellent performance during road transfers. Cotton plantations – cotton

is a shrubby plant mainly cultivated in China, the United States and desert-like countries, where the land is irrigated – show middle-sized shrubs with fragile stems demanding tire features like excellent flotation and reduced soil compaction. Star Trac will be exhibited at Agritechnica in the size VA500/95 D32. In the tire marking the suffix “VA” refers to a special profile of the tire rim common for combined harvesters whereas the letter “D” refers to the conventional construction. On the occasion of Agritechnica, BKT will distribute for free more than 16 thousand footballs to the visitors. Before distribution, there will be a spectacular event creating astonishment and enthusiasm among the exhibition visitors! At the BKT stand, the Panini sticker album „Agricultural Engineering“, which is dedicated to the world of agriculture, tractors and components, and sponsored by BKT, will be distributed for free. There are two pages in the album with BKT tires by means of 12 cute images/stickers to collect. The sticker collection will be the central idea of an initiative taking place over the months following the exhibition. Those turning up with the complete album at the following edition of Agritechnica (2015) will be rewarded. BKT @ Agritechnica 2013, Hannovermesse - Hall 8 Stand A19

October 2013 | Farming Monthly | 51

| Machinery

58 | Farming Monthly | October 2013

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| Agritechnica

JCB launches new wheeled loaders at Agritechnica JCB will launch four new compact telescopic and industrial-scale wheeled loaders at Agritechnica – bringing new levels of power and performance to its popular range. CB Agriculture Managing Director Richard Fox-Marrs said: “JCB is the world market leader for sales of agricultural wheeled loaders and the launch of these four new products will build on that strong position. JCB’s innovative wheeled loading shovels are purpose-built and designed for agriculture which ensures our machines meet the precise needs of farmers and gives them the power and performance they require.” JCB TM180 and TM220 A package of upgrades ensures that the JCB TM180 and TM220 compact telescopic wheeled loaders continue to punch above their weight. The main change is the switch to the sophisticated JCB Diesel by Kohler engine which provides more power and torque, as well as lower running costs and cleaner emissions. This Stage IIIB/Tier 4 2.5-litre engine meets the next stage of emissions regulations without the need for a diesel particulate filter or external exhaust after treatment, in line with the innovative JCB Ecomax engine, which is fitted into machines spanning the 74hp to173 hp range. Other changes include a re-designed rear chassis that allows towing – up to 3.5 tonnes – for the first time, and the introduction of a highspeed option for the TM180 that increases top speed from 20kph to 35kph for quicker travel between sites. The TM220 already has a 40kph top speed option. Off-road, the new option of a 100% locking front differential on both machines adds to their traction potential. Handling performance is already competitive so remains unchanged. The TM180 lifts 1800kg to a full-height of 4.5m when measured with pallet forks and it can handle more than a tonne with the telescopic boom level and fully extended – useful real-world performance. If more handling muscle is needed, then the TM220 fits the bill with 2200kg maximum lift to about the same height and 1250kg fully outstretched to off-load a trailer of fertiliser bags or place silage into a feeder. However, boom end-damping, adaptive load control to guard against forwards instability and a choice of three quickhitches add to the comfort, safety and versatility of these machines. Changes beneath the surface are highlighted by a new joystick control with range-shift button and a more informative new instrument cluster in the cab, as well as fresh styling for the counterweight and engine cover. It is beneath the engine cover that the biggest change is evident – a 2.5-litre direct injection JCB Diesel by Kohler 2504 TCR engine now powers both machines, with Euro Stage 3B / US Tier 4 Interim emissions achieved without exhaust after-treatment. The TM180 gains a useful 4.3% increase in power to 48kW (65hp). Power output for the TM220 is unchanged at 56kW (75hp) but the engine’s common rail fuel injection, four-valve cylinder head and sophisticated exhaust gas recirculation combine to generate 20% more torque: 300Nm at 1500rpm with almost 90% still available at just 1000rpm. Low oil consumption and 500-750 hour oil filter intervals (subject to operating conditions) will help keep running costs of these versatile loaders in check.

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JCB Farm Master 413S Agri Increased engine and hydraulic power for added performance, plus an all-new cabin that will make life more comfortable for the operator, are key features of the new JCB Farm Master 413S Agri wheeled loader. Performance gets a shot in the arm with a 12% increase in peak power and 3% gain in peak torque by upgrading from the 4.4-litre JCB Dieselmax to the new 4.8-litre JCB Ecomax engine with 108kW (145hp) and 550Nm torque. In the hydraulics department, the twin gear pump installation of the outgoing 412S model has been replaced by a load-sensing variable output piston pump with 23% more output at 156-litres/min. It also brings fuel-saving potential and less wear and tear by delivering only as much oil as the machine needs. Introducing electro-hydraulic proportional control for the auxiliary valves means that the third and fourth spools can be controlled at the same time, and the new constant flow options equips the 413S to power attachments such as a sweeping brush and snow blower. A high lift option giving 6% more load-over height than standard will be welcomed by operators filling high-sided trailers and bioenergy feedstock bunkers. The most striking change, however, is the new styling and cab, which bring practical improvements as well as giving the machine a sleeker, more modern appearance that will appeal to professional operators. The cab is significantly larger, quieter and more comfortable, with a new instrument display set in front of the driver providing more useful information. Optional climate control air conditioning has been added to automatically maintain a comfortable temperature. Visibility to the rear is better thanks to the compact, sloping engine cover, and the glazing should stay cleaner now that the chassismounted mudguards fully cover all tyre sizes. With service items more accessible on the JCB Ecomax engine, looking after the new JCB Farm Master 413S Agri will be an easier experience.

JCB Farm Master 435S Agri The new JCB Farm Master 435S Agri makes its international debut at Agritechnica as the new ‘king of the clamp’. Building on the success of its predecessor – the 434S Agri – as the industry’s first heavy class wheeled loader built exclusively for agricultural applications, the newcomer has improved traction, faster travel speed and greater comfort and convenience for the operator – as well as significant reductions in fuel and other running costs. A 6.7-litre Cummins QSB six-cylinder engine is used again but with catalyst and particle filtration exhaust after-treatment achieving Euro Stage 3B / US Tier 4i emissions compliance. Power output at 230hp and 945Nm of torque are unchanged for an unrivalled power-toweight ratio of 16.8hp/tonne, and with more power and torque available at lower engine speeds than before. An 1800rpm ECO power setting for light duties is joined by a new ‘low idle’ feature that automatically cuts engine speed to just 700rpm after 30 seconds of inactivity. Together with a slower cooling fan to cut power loss, these features contribute to significant reductions in lifetime fuel usage. The same goes for other running costs – axle service interval is now 1500 hours, for example, and a new brake design reduces wear. Further efficiency gains come from the new Powerinch feature for the six-speed powershift transmission – it disengages the clutch so that full engine speed can be used when stationary for optimum loader tear-out and lift. A 48kph top speed option enables the 435S Agri to keep pace with other vehicles in a silage-making or muck spreading crew and operators get a quieter working environment in the refreshed cab, where maximum noise level is down to just 70 dB(A). Together with other new features, these improvements highlight how the new JCB Farm Master 435S Agri is even more operatorfocused than before.

October 2013 | Farming Monthly | 53

| Agritechnica

BBC Harvest 2013

Case IH at Agritechnica

New Holland sets the pace.

Efficient Farming – new tractors, harvesting technology and Case IH solutions for precision farming – Case IH launches a whole range of innovations in exhibition hall 5.

s it feasible that agriculture should step back one hundred years to try and regain a little of the romanticism that seems to have embraced harvest time? As part of the BBC’s Harvest program, a series of three programmes that were broadcast last month, an experiment took place on the Essex farm of Guy Smith to establish just what the difference is between a modern combine harvester and a more traditional way of bringing in the harvest. Using a state-of-the-art New Holland CR8080 SmartTraxTM combine from local dealer Ernest Doe, presenter Philippa Forrester showed viewers how a modern machine brings together all the separate operations that our ancestors used to undertake to complete harvest and took control to get a feel for the output of a modern harvester. Equipped with New Holland’s GPS guidance system IntellisteerTM, Philippa managed to resist the temptation to grab the steering wheel and take a straight swath out of the field. To offer a contrast and a glimpse of a bygone age, volunteers learnt the art of hand cutting wheat with hooks and scythes while a veritable army of local schoolchildren was gathered to relearn the lost art of hand threshing. Led by co-presenter Gregg Wallace and equipped with pillow cases, bats, sticks and even tennis rackets, the volunteers proceeded to thresh the cut crop

ase IH stand in exhibition hall 5, stand B15, will be the top meeting point for everyone interested in efficient and economically viable solutions / More than 20 top innovations / Case IH presents two classstrongest tractors “Efficient Farming – tractors, harvesting technology and precision farming solutions for tomorrow’s agriculture” – is the motto for Case IH at this year’s exhibition and information display at the Agritechnica. On this occasion, the manufacturer of agricultural machinery will present a vast range of new products and services as yet unequalled in the company’s history, including five new tractor series which are presented at Agritechnica for the very first time. This year, however, there is more in hall 5 than just innovative tractor and harvesting technology. The exhibition includes new solutions for precision agriculture and a diverting mix of information and entertainment on issues currently of high interest for farmers: these issues relate to the latest fuel-saving engine technology, to innovative financing solutions and synergies that develop within FIAT Industrial – offering growing benefits also for farmers”, explains Alfred Guth, communications manager at Case IH and responsible for the trade show presentation. VIP-programme and new service- and dealer-arena Different key topics which address special groups complete the information programme. There are special contact persons, guided tours and other special exhibition offers for example for machinery contractors, students or school groups.

and then using sieves and a further measure of manual labour, were introduced to the art of winnowing – using wind to clean the crop. Over more than 100 years, the founding companies that have created the modern entity that is New Holland have sought to make life easier and more productive for the farmer. From stationary engines and threshing machines, through to tractors and grape, cane and combine harvesters, New Holland has consistently been at the forefront of innovation, helping farmers to expand the boundaries of agriculture. The BBC Harvest Programme was intended to give the wider public an in-depth view of harvest time for UK Agriculture. Following on from the difficult harvesting and sowing conditions of 2012, the series of programmes showed viewers the culmination of what has proven to be one of the more difficult farming years in recent memory. Using the CR8080’s GPS system and on-board weighing equipment, Philippa managed to harvest an average of 11kg of wheat a second during her stint behind the wheel.

54 | Farming Monthly | October 2013

One further key topic covers the new range of services offered to Case IH customers. New online offers – such as the new Case IHapp, the latest generation mobile service vehicles and new tools for quick diagnosis – are focal points of the exhibit in the “Case IH service- and dealer-arena”, presenting information for the first time on the dealers’ service offer on 300 square metres. On Thursday 14 November will be dedicated to young farmers; they can catch up on career opportunities at Case IH in the “Recruiting Café”. Experts from the Human Resources Departments present information on education, career entry, practical training and research opportunities at Case IH and the FIAT Industrial Group. Furthermore, Case IH will be sponsor of the Young Farmers Party in the TUI Arena. Also for the first time there will be a quiz particularly for children at the stand. On Friday 15 November and Saturday 16 November, there will be particular focus on workshops related to precision farming. There’s so much more to see so make sure to visit hall 5.

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| Machinery

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

Anker of Coates - Peterborough PE7 2DD T: 01733 840777 Huntingdon PE28 0AE T: 01480 890990 www.ankerofcoates.co.uk Ravenhill - Hereford HR4 9QJ T: 01432 352333 www.ravenhill.co.uk October 2013 | Farming Monthly | 61

| Machinery

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

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

Craven Arms, Shropshire Tel: 01588 673325

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

Bromyard, Herefordshire Tel: 01885 488884 Chester, Cheshire Tel: 01829 749391 Romsey Agricultural Machinery Ltd Shorts Farm, Sherfield English, Romsey, Hampshire TF12 5BB Tel: 01794 323159 62 | Farming Monthly | October 2013

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

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

Wilfred Scruton Limited Maxwell House, Riccall Grange, King Rudding Lane, Riccall, York YO19 6QL Tel: 01757 249799

Brian Robinson Machinery Ltd East Cowton, Northallerton, North Yorkshire DL7 0DX Tel: 01325 378552

Providence Foundry, Foxholes, Driffield, E. Yorkshire YO25 3QQ Tel: 01262 470221 www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Agritechnica

CLAAS celebrate at Agritechnica This year’s Agritechnica will mark the culmination of the CLAAS Centenary year, which officially started at the SIMA Show in February. ver the year, various events have been held around the world, leading up to a major worldwide party on September 7th, which saw CLAAS employees worldwide joining together in one large party, linked via a live video link. At Agritechnica, CLAAS will have its largest stand ever and it promises to be one of the most eye-catching stands at the show. Central to the stand will be a simple knotter, which was one of the earliest of August Claas’ inventions. From working with his father, in the summer of 1913 August Claas decided to set-up his own company, manufacturing straw balers, although this then had to be put on hold with the outbreak of the First World War the following year. Whilst the CLAAS name is widely associated with harvesting machinery, it was August Claas’ development of the simple knotter in 1921 which provided the cornerstone of the company's growth and success. This ingenious invention revolutionised agriculture, and its importance is reflected in the fact that the original patents taken out in 1921 still apply to knotters used in current CLAAS balers. From balers, August Claas then turned his attention to other machinery, including harvesting machinery and looking at how to improve on the American machinery that had been unsuccessfully trialled in Europe, resulting in the launch of the MDB in 1936, which was to be the start of a long list of combine innovations and developments, resulting in the latest LEXION 780. This development will be reflected in the CLAAS stand at AGRITECHNICA, where radiating out from the knotter display in the

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middle, will be the development paths that lead to today’s highly advanced machinery. Agritechnica will provide the launchpad for a number of new machines, some of which have already been announced others that will be unveiled at the show. Already launched this year has been the new six-model SCORPION range of telescopic handlers. Split between large and

small frame models, these offer increased lift capacity and performance, with the largest models now capable of lifting 5.5 tonnes. Also on display will be the latest additions to the CLAAS combine range, including the new entry level hybrid LEXION 740 and the 5straw walker TUCANO 420, along with a multitude of other developments across the whole

CLAAS range. In addition to CLAAS celebrating its 100 years, it is also 10 years since the company entered the tractor market. Agritechnica will mark the official launch of the new AXION 800 range of high horsepower tractor and other new product development announcements will be unveiled at the show. The CLAAS stand is in Hall 13.

October 2013 | Farming Monthly | 57

| ATV

New heavy-duty XUV Gators from John Deere Reflecting the growing popularity of crossover utility vehicles, John Deere’s latest heavy-duty Gator line-up features two new four-wheel drive models, the fast and powerful XUV 825i plus the four-passenger XUV 855D S4. ore power, speed and acceleration are provided by the XUV 825i Gator, which has been designed for drivers who demand advanced offroad performance, all-day riding comfort and the ability to cope with extreme terrain. Gators have always been known for their durability, versatility and safety – the XUV 825i maintains all of these core qualities, but the extra power and speed are what set it apart from the rest of the current range. The XUV 825i is equipped with an 812cc, three-cylinder, liquidcooled, dual OHC petrol engine producing 50hp and a top speed of 44mph, plus a 26.7-litre fuel tank. The engine incorporates electronic fuel injection for easy starting, which together with the new continuously variable transmission (CVT) air intake results in smoother automotivestyle performance. A fully locking four-wheel drive system allows this Gator model to cope easily with all types of terrain. The fully independent double wishbone suspension provides 203mm (8in) of wheel travel and up to 267mm (10.5in) of ground clearance. Power steering with an anti-kickback feature is standard, providing easy control of the vehicle with little effort, regardless of the driving conditions. The cargo box is made of a 15 per cent glass-filled polypropylene composite material that eliminates rust and dents and reduces noise. The large, one-piece design provides a load capacity of 454kg, while towing capacity is 680kg and overall payload capacity is 635kg. The John Deere XUV 825i Gator is available in the company’s traditional green and yellow livery. Meanwhile, the XUV 855D S4 Gator utility vehicle combines versatile off-road performance, work capability and comfort for up

to four passengers, with the same cargo box, towing and payload capacities as the XUV 825i. This new addition to the Gator family is powered by the proven 22hp three-cylinder liquid-cooled diesel engine featured on the current XUV 855D model; the S4 also has a top speed of 32mph, and comes with power steering as standard. To allow for extra passengers or cargo space, the XUV 855D S4 features an easily convertible rear bench that folds down to provide a flat surface for extra storage. A spacious under-seat storage compartment is also included. The durable composite and metal hybrid cargo box carries on the Gator tradition of superior

58 | Farming Monthly | October 2013

hauling capacity on this fourpassenger model. The John Deere XUV 855D S4 Gator is available in olive and black livery, and both new models can be ordered with a variety of factory and dealer installed options and attachments.

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| ATV

Total control with Kubota’s latest utility vehicles The 4WD Kubota RTV400Ci and RTV500 have been designed to offer a powerful, robust and reliable utility vehicle that provides users with exceptional handling and a host of innovative features to maximise control, even in the toughest of conditions. drian Langmead, Kubota’s business development manager, commented: “Utility vehicles are used for a wide range of jobs, from caring for livestock, to shooting or just getting around your property, estate or park for instance. The type of vehicle you choose very much depends on what it is being used for and the type of terrain it needs to get across. “The new RTV400Ci and RTV500 were specifically launched to strengthen our range of utility vehicles and ensure we have the right machine for every application. Along with these compact solutions, our customers also have access to our more powerful RTV900 and RTV1140 ranges.” The RTV400Ci incorporates a new, high revving 16HP air-cooled, single cylinder petrol engine, along with Kubota’s newly designed CVT Plus (Continuously Variable Transmission) with inertial clutch. The CVT Plus keeps the vehicle’s double cogged, wide belt drive system tight at all times, resulting in minimal slippage, giving drivers greater response and better durability. To complement this, the machine provides dynamic braking, helping users to maintain total control during ascents and descents with engine assisted deceleration. Similar in power, the

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RTV500 features a 15.8HP, two-cylinder petrol engine. However, the RTV500 engine is liquid cooled to ensure reliability and to minimise noise and vibration. This reduces operator fatigue and increases the efficiency of the vehicle. The machine also includes Kubota’s innovative VHT Plus (variable hydrostatic transmission) system, which further enhances vehicle performance and handling. Both the RTV400Ci and RTV500 include an electronic fuel injection (EFI) system that not only provides on-demand power and helps optimise acceleration, but also improves the machine’s responsiveness. Adrian continued: “The EFI system helps to eliminate cold starting issues and manual choke adjustments that can often plague other carbureted utility vehicles that are available on the market from some of our competitors. The key benefits of this include increased reliability and improved engine serviceability.” The compact nature of the RTV400Ci and RTV500 mean the vehicles have an excellent centre of gravity

and equal weight distribution. All the wheels have robust semi-independent rear suspension systems to compensate for rough terrain and uneven ground. Operator comfort is further enhanced with ergonomic, well placed controls and a comfortable seat, so the driver and passenger can use the vehicles for extended periods of time without fatigue. Ample and trouble-free legroom also make it easy to get on and off the vehicle. Other key features of the both the RTV400Ci and RTV500 include a standard frame integrated ROPS and a manually tilting dumping cargo bed that can haul up to 200kg of dirt, gravel or hay for example. For more information on Kubota and its extensive range of solutions for the construction, groundcare and agriculture sectors visit www.kubota.co.uk or call 01844 268000.

October 2013 | Farming Monthly | 59

| Motors

Subaru all-wheel drive now available in Newcastle Following the appointment of approved dealer, Subaru Newcastle, the full range of reliable, all conditions All-Wheel Drive Subaru vehicles is now available to motorists in the Tyne & Wear area of Northumberland. ased on West Road in the West End of the city of Newcastle, Subaru Newcastle is a new business established by Louise Parker and her father Peter Dalkin. The father and daughter team are also directors of Wingrove Motor Company, a family-owned business with roots in the area dating back to 1925 and with a reputation for delivering industryleading standards of customer service. The dealership has a newlyconstructed 200 square-metre showroom, purpose-built to house the full range of All-Wheel Drive Subaru vehicles, including the Japanese brand’s best-selling Forester SUV, the new XV compact crossover and critically-acclaimed BRZ sports car. Full sales, aftersales, and servicing facilities are available on site, partnered by a fully authorised workshop and repair centre. Having competed in high-level rallying in the 1980s, including entering the second ever ParisDakar event, Peter’s experience and passion for motoring is unrivalled, something that has

clearly influenced his daughter, and Dealer Principal, Louise. But the pair are not the only experienced members of the Subaru Newcastle team – the staff on site can lay claim to over 1000years of combined professional industry expertise. “My father’s connection to rallying is really where our links to the Subaru brand were born; everyone knows of Subaru’s impressive competition legacy in the sport,” commented Dealer Principal Louise Parker, “We are excited to be able to offer drivers in the area Subaru’s unique engineering, go-anywhere ability and high levels of equipment, as well as offering a competitive model range, Subaru is known across the car industry for its legendary reliability – we’re confident that we can live up to this promise and exceed the expectations of our customers.” Paul Tunnicliffe, Managing Director for Subaru UK, said: “Subaru UK’s expanding dealer network was recently ranked second in the country in the influential Auto Express Driver Power survey, testament to our

dealers’ commitment to customer satisfaction. For us, the customer experience is all about good technical knowledge and developing relationships with our customers, and we’re certain that Subaru Newcastle will uphold these values in its dealings with customers across the region.” To find out more about Subaru’s range of All-Wheel Drive models, visit Subaru Newcastle’s website www.subarunewcastle.com.

Located at the Fox & Hounds Garage, 338 West Road, Newcastle upon Tyne (NE5 2ER), the showroom is situated within easy reach of the A1 and A69 motorways. Subaru Newcastle is open from 09:00-18:30 Monday to Friday, 09:00-17:00 on Saturday, and 11:00-16:00 on Sunday. For more information on the services available, please contact the dealership on 0191 274 2000.

Price is right for Vauxhall’s Insignia Country Tourer Vauxhall’s rugged SUV-inspired allpurpose Insignia Country Tourer is available to order now with prices starting from £25,349 on-the-road, up to £5,000 cheaper than its D-segment crossover rivals. nown as the Insignia Country Tourer, and based on the Sports Tourer model, but with all-wheel drive, higher ground clearance and tougher styling, the new addition to Vauxhall’s highly-acclaimed Insignia range received a rapturous reception when it was unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show last week. Customers can choose between two trim levels, Country Tourer, priced from £25,349 to £29,709 on-the-road, and Country Tourer Nav, priced from £26,499 to £30,859 on-the-road. Country Tourer trim features generous standard spec including bi-xenon adaptive front lighting, power tailgate and front and rear

60 | Farming Monthly | October 2013

parking sensors. On top of this, Country Tourer Nav gets Navi 900 IntelliLink sat nav with 8-inch colour touch screen, multi-function touch-pad controller and an 8-inch digital instrument cluster as standard. Each model has a choice of two powerful 2.0 CDTi engines, including a 163PS with start/stop and a hot 195PS BiTurbo unit. The 163PS engine is available with either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission, and the BiTurbo comes with the automatic gearbox only. Crucially, entry-level Insignia Country Tourer Nav pricing undercuts that of key D-segment

crossover rivals including the Audi A4 Allroad by over £5,000 and the Volkswagen Passat Alltrack by £2,400. “With competitive pricing and generous standard equipment levels, the Insignia Country Tourer looks set to shake up the D-segment crossover sector,” said Stuart Harris, Vauxhall’s Head of Carline Brand. “The Insignia Country Tourer is perfect for a winter holiday, on snowy roads, or simply when the going gets tough. Even on urban roads its robust looks give it strong stand-out appeal.” First deliveries of the Insignia Country Tourer are due in dealers in January.

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Carstins West Midlands Tel: 01676 533145

Cross Roads Warwickshire Tel: 01608 661544

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Bulldog Twyford Reading, Berkshire Tel: 0118 9321 331

Ashburton Motor Works Ltd Devon Tel: 01364 652302

Newcastle Subaru Tyne & Wear Tel: 0191 274 2000

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Land Rover to pilot new driving scheme for 11-17 year olds Land Rover has developed a unique new driving programme for youngsters – Start Off-Road. he scheme allows 11-17 year olds to get behind the wheel of a Range Rover Evoque and experience true off-road driving, teaching them skills and techniques that they will go on to utilise throughout their future years both on and off road. Participants have the chance to experience driving techniques including basics such as steering, braking and reversing, as well as more advanced skills such as climbing and descending hills, crossing ditches and ridges, negotiating ruts, wet grass and mud, and even crossing water. Statistics show that younger drivers pick up new skills easier and are more open to learning good driving habits. By instilling the basics in them at an early stage it is hoped that they will gain invaluable experience for later in life. Each student receives a personalised Log Book in which to record progress so that when they come again – to the same venue or another venue – they pick up where they left off. As well as providing participants with an invaluable set of skills the course is also unique in offering youngsters the chance to experience the renowned capability of the Range Rover Evoque, lauded for both its off-road and onroad ability. Each Range Rover Evoque is fitted with dual controls for safety as well as an automatic

gearbox, and a dedicated team of instructors are on hand to take participants through every scenario. Parents can also take part in the activity. Pilot courses are being run at four locations throughout the UK: • Chavenage House – Gloucestershire – Sunday 13th October • West London Shooting School – Middlesex – Saturday 2nd November • Duncombe Park – North Yorkshire – Sunday 29th September; Sunday 27th October; Sunday 24th November • Rockingham Castle – Leicestershire – Sunday 6th October; Sunday 10th November • Ragley Hall – Warwickshire – Saturday 19th October; Sunday 17th November David Saunders, General Manager Land Rover Experience, commented: “The Land Rover Start Off-Road programme is designed to offer youngsters something unique that they wouldn’t usually be able to experience. Not only is it a fun day out, it also teaches an invaluable skill set to youngsters before they can even obtain a license. It helps instill confidence in them, gives them a head start and should help make for proficient driving in the future.” For further details visit http://startoffroad.com/

2014 Land Cruiser 2014 Land Cruiser will be launched in the UK on 1 December. The model benefits from a refreshed exterior design, improvements to the interior, new entertainment features and advanced off-road technologies. The new range has a starting price of £34,995 on-the-road. uilding on the success of the Toyota Touch touchscreen multimedia system, which is now widely available across the Toyota range, 2014 Land Cruiser gains the latest Toyota Touch 2 system.

The new system improves screen resolution by a factor of four, and introduces smartphone style ‘drag and swipe’ gesture technology for improved operation. Developments have been made to the provision and accuracy of traffic information with

the adoption of Tom Tom Real Time Traffic alerts. Destination selection has been improved with the use of Google Street View functionality, allowing users to see a high resolution image of their destination before selection. No other mainstream manufacturer currently offers this feature in the UK. Tom Tom Real Time Traffic and Google Street View are preinstalled on Toyota Touch 2 and are available free of charge for one year from purchase of the car. 2014 Land Cruiser is the latest Toyota to adopt the new grade naming system of Active, Icon and Invincible. The car benefits from significant enhanced specification on Icon and Invincible grades, while retaining the pricing levels of the corresponding outgoing grades. 2014 Land Cruiser is available to order now, with customer deliveries from 1 December

64 | Farming Monthly | October 2013

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The only pick-up to carry a 6 year / 125,000 mile warranty*

Auto Services Perth Ltd Perthshire Tel: 01738 210000 www.autoservicesperthltd.co.uk

David Cook Motors Lancashire Tel: 0161 624 1441 www.davidcookmotors.co.uk

Class leading insurance

Cross Roads Warwickshire Tel: 01608 661544 unityautomotive.co.uk

Furrows Shropshire Tel: 01743 454444 www.furrows.co.uk

Hepworth Motors West Yorkshire Tel: 01484 683172

Class leading fuel economy

t Leather interior t Heated seats t Galvanised body panels t Air-conditioning t Keyless entry t Six speed manual transmission t Steering wheel audio controls t Bluetooth速 hands free

08430 08430 227144 227144 greatwallmotor.co.uk greatwallmotor.co.uk

2.5T TOWING

*6 year / 174 25,00|0 m ile warrant yMonthly comprises o| f thOctober e first 3 year2013 / 60,000 Standard Limited Manufacturer's Warrant y with an ex tended 3 year / 125,000 mile (w hichever comes sooner) Ex tended Power tain Farming www.farmingmonthly.co.uk Warrant y. Terms and conditions apply. For full details ask your local dealer or visit greatwallmotor.co.uk. Bluetooth is a registered trademark of Bluetooth SIG, Inc. America.

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Christmas comes early with new £99 per month Dacia Duster offer Dacia’s set the UK car market alight in recent months with its “shockingly affordable” four-model range. Now it’s looking to clean up completely with a stunning Duster deal from under £100 per month. ampant Dacia is offering Brits arguably the ultimate new car “smart buy” with the chance to get behind the wheel of its multi-award-winning flagship for just £99 per month*. Or, to put it another way, a chunky, family-friendly SUV for the price of a one-litre, three-door Volkswagen up! city car**. The jaw-dropping offer, available through Dacia Finance, is for the Duster Access 1.6 4x2 over four years. What’s the catch? There isn’t a cash one. The only condition is that each Duster’s got to be ordered and registered by the end of 2013. For only £20 more per month, buyers can upgrade to attractive Ambiance 4x2 spec with the fuelsipping 1.5 dCi 110 engine. The mid-level version brings a series of creature comforts such

as 4x20W radio CD, Bluetooth, AUX/USB connection and electric front windows. The range-topping Lauréate, simply priced at a further £20 per month for the 4x2 dCi 110 version, offers a heady mix of air conditioning, front and rear electric windows, heated and electrically adjustable door mirrors and leather steering wheel. Its chunky looks are beefed up with the addition of alloy wheels, plus satin chrome styling touches and roof bars too. Incredibly, for unbeatable peace of mind motoring, all Dusters even come

with free servicing (3 years/60,000 miles). Dacia has clearly struck a chord with budget-conscious new and used car buyers up and down the country. Year-to-date, Duster is already in fifth place for retail SUV sales (C-SUV segment), outselling well-established competitors such as the Ford Kuga and Skoda Yeti. Its success undoubtedly comes down to more than mere affordability though. Its stylish SUV scores high on practicality and reliability, together with

low-running costs and fuel-efficient engines. It’s got a roomy cabin and huge boot to round off its tempting package. Plus, the bonus of rugged off-road capability in its 4x4 guises. Dacia’s jaw-dropping prices are clear and straightforward, whether you buy online at the online Dacia Store or through your local retailer. All of the latest range information, plus full finance offer terms and conditions, are available at www.dacia.co.uk, 150 Dacia sites across the UK, or, by calling 0844 335 1111.

New Nissan X-Trail makes global debut Nissan President and CEO, Carlos Ghosn, unveiled the New Nissan X-Trail at the Frankfurt Motor Show recently. issan's ongoing mission to deliver innovation and excitement for everyone took another step forward today as Nissan President and Chief Executive Officer, Carlos Ghosn, unveiled the New Nissan X-Trail at the Frankfurt Motor Show. "When we first announced our Nissan Power 88 mid-term plan, we started the most intensive product offensive in our 80 year history," said Ghosn. "The X-Trail we are launching today is evidence of the progress we have made." Improved in every area, the new X-Trail retains its famed go-anywhere ability, and adds a host of features that redefine what customers can expect from a compact SUV. In true Nissan style, the new X-Trail introduces premium technology to a new area of the market, with numerous first-in-sector features such as Nissan Safety Shield and the new fully

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integrated, NissanConnect navigation and infotainment system. "This new X-Trail builds on the reputation earned over three product generations for quality and reliability enhanced by classleading levels of value, innovation, dynamic performance and premium style," said Ghosn. Ghosn also presented the Nissan e-NV200 electric taxi for Barcelona, in the presence of the Mayor, Xavier Trias. Barcelona is the first city in the world to commit to the implementation of the zero-emission vehicle as publicly accessible transport. In addition, another star of the Nissan stand was the Nissan Nismo Concept Watch. Designed specially for drivers of Nissan Nismo cars, it is the first smartwatch to connect a driver to the car, providing them with real-time data.

October 2013 | Farming Monthly | 67

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Drive away an Amarok from ÂŁ279 a month.* 1RZ ZLWK D É&#x153; 36 HQJLQH EHVW LQ FODVV FDUJR DUHD RI P DQG LPSUHVVLYH RII-URDG SHUIRUPDQFH WKDQNV WR VHOHFWDEOH 027,21ÂŽ IRXU-ZKHHO GULYH $OVR DYDLODEOH ZLWK DQ RSWLRQDO É&#x153; 36 HQJLQH 3RS LQ DQG DVN XV IRU PRUH GHWDLOV

*Plus VAT and initial rental. Available on contract hire or finance lease terms. Business users only. 6p per mile (plus VAT) charged for mileage travelled in excess of the contracted mileage. Contract hire quotation based on Amarok Startline 2.0 TDI 140PS. Offer based on a 3 + 35 payment profile and 10,000 miles per annum. Further charges may be payable when the vehicle is returned. Indemnities may be required.

76 | Farming Monthly | October 2013

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Abridge Van Centre Apple Yard, Langston Road, Loughton, Essex. Telephone: 020 8045 6006. Find us on your sat-nav using IG10 3TQ. www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/abridge

Greenhous Volkswagen Van Centre (Bilston) Trinity Road, Bilston, Wolverhampton. Telephone: 01902 546 561. Find us on your sat-nav using WV14 7EF.

Sinclair Van Centre (Cardiff) Tyndall Street, Wharf Road East, Cardiff. Telephone: 02921 150 093. Find us on your sat-nav using CF10 4BB. www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/cardiff

www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/bilston

Alan Day Van Centre Pinkham Way, North Circular Road, New Southgate, London. Telephone: 02035 535 620.

Find us on your sat-nav using N11 3UT.

JCT600 Van Centre (Hull) Saxon Way, Priory Park West, Hessle, Hull, East Yorkshire. Telephone: 01482 908 520. Find us on your sat-nav using HU13 9PB. www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/JCT600Hull

www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/alandaynewsouthgate

Breeze Van Centre Yarrow Road, Tower Park, Poole, Dorset. Telephone: 01202 900 304.

JCT600 Van Centre (York) Find us on your sat-nav using YO30 4WW.

www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/breezepoole

www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/JCT600York

Greenhous Volkswagen Van Centre

Sinclair Van Centre

Find us on your sat-nav using SY1 3TL. www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/greenhous

Storeys Bar Road, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire. Telephone: 01733 615 052. Find us on your sat-nav using PE1 5YS. www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/peterborough

Centurion Park, Clifton Moor, York. Telephone: 01904 848 302.

Find us on your sat-nav using BH12 4QY.

Ennerdale Road, Harlescott, Shrewsbury, Shropshire. Telephone: 01743 600 031.

Volkswagen Van Centre (Peterborough)

Gorseinon Road, Penllergaer, Gorseinon, Swansea, West Glamorgan. Telephone: 01792 447 578. Find us on your sat-nav using SA4 9GW. www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/sinclair

Subject to status. Available to over 18s in the UK only. Available for all Amarok ordered by December 20th, 2013 and is not available in conjunction with any other offers. This offer may be varied or withdrawn at any time. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle Finance, Freepost VWFS.

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October 2013 | Farming Monthly | 77

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Suzuki owners - good neighbours to have TV ad campaign for SX4 S-Cross - the all new crossover model. he new SX4 S-Cross went on sale on 1st October and Suzuki has an all new TV advertising campaign to support the launch which follows the light hearted but impactful format of Suzuki GB’s “Have to Have it” strategy that launched the repositioning of the brand in 2012. The new advert was devised and filmed in the UK by The Red Brick Road, Suzuki’s creative agency and follows a family man living in the suburbs who proudly brings his new car home to a lot of admiring glances and twitching of curtains in the street. Soon after he is deluged by his neighbours all looking for a test ride in the SX4 S-Cross who think of some quite far-fetched scenarios to ring the doorbell of his home. His new found friends hatch a master plan between them which include a cushion-faked heavy pregnancy, an urgent trip to the vets and a strangely ‘out of control’ remote toy helicopter which needs to be retrieved from the fields to pacify its young owner. The new advert will be running for four weeks from 1st October in 40’ format in prime time slots on ITV1 and Channel 4 together with online campaigns and also a competition on Twitter encouraging people to tweet their excuses of why they ‘Have to Have’ the SCross using #winthescross. The soulful soundtrack is by James Brown and titled ‘I want you so bad’. Priced from £14,999, all SX4 S-Cross models

are highly equipped as standard including seven airbags, ESP, Tyre Pressure Monitoring, 16-inch Alloy wheels and air conditioning. Two engines are offered, a 1.6-litre petrol and a 1.6litre diesel and the new car follows Suzuki’s familiar ‘SZ’ grading structure with SZ3, SZ4, SZ-T and SZ5 models available. The SX4 SCross is also available optionally with ALLGRIP; Suzuki’s latest technology four-mode 4WD system for even greater security during the

winter months. Cost of ownership is favourable as well with low CO2 emissions of just 110g/km for the 1.6litre DDiS model and 127g/km for the 1.6-litre petrol with manual transmission. For additional flexibility and ease of use a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) is offered as an option with the petrol engine that enables the driver to shift up or down the gears automatically or via paddle shift buttons behind the steering wheel.

Range Rover hybrids on the Silk Trail 2013 Expedition reach the anchient Silk Roads, half-way to their Mumbai destination Highlights from Land Rover’s Silk Trail 2013 expedition, travelling 10,000 miles from Solihull, UK, to Mumbai, India and taking-in the legendary Silk Road trading route that first connected Asia with Europe more than 2,000 years ago. This epic journey is the final validation test for prototypes of the new Range Rover Hybrid before the model is signed-off for production. he Silk Trail 2013 expedition has reached the half-way point from its starting point at the home of Land Rover in Solihull, UK, to its destination in Mumbai, India. Twenty days after setting-out, the three Range Rover Hybrid prototypes vehicles have reached the deserts of central Asia on the ancient Silk Roads that inspired the name and route of this epic journey. The convoy has covered 5,226 miles (8,411 kilometres) and in its third week it travelled through Kazakhstan and much of Uzbekistan, lands of Arabic and Oriental people and cultures. The Range Rover Hybrids, in

their final validation test before sign-off for production, have taken in their stride a variety of punishing conditions: asphalt surfaces riddled with deep potholes and layered with small stones; mud tracks that have been dry and rutted or wet and slippery; and dusty desert trails sometimes hard as gravel and sometimes soft as sand. While coping assuredly with such mixed terrains, in temperatures ranging from 17 to 43 degrees Centigrade, the seven vehicles have demonstrated outstanding reliability and between them suffered just one cracked windscreen and four punctures. Unlike other hybrids, the Range

70 | Farming Monthly | October 2013

Rover carries a full-size spare wheel and tyre. With its parallel 3.0-litre SDV6 diesel engine and 35kW (47bhp) electric motor, the Range Rover Hybrid models have returned impressive fuel economy for a vehicle so spacious and powerful and so heavily laden, including roof-rack mounted expedition equipment. Fuel Economy has been put to the test on the waterlogged mud tracks of the Kalmykiya grasslands in eastern Russia, so sticky that they were impassable to other vehicles, yet the vehicles are still recording more than 40 mpg on asphalt highways and busy urban roads through Russia and

Uzbekistan. With 29 days to go to reach Mumbai, the convoy rested on its 23rd day in Uzbekistan’s capital city, Tashkent. The second half of this ambitious journey will feature the deserts, highlands and lowlands of Kyrgyzstan and China; winding tarmac roads climbing high into the thin cold air of the Himalaya mountain range; and a gradual descent through the lush greenness of Nepal to the hot plains of India. The expedition is due to enter Kyrgyzstan, the 11th of 14 countries on the Silk Trail 2013 route, two days after leaving Tashkent.

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Unity Automotive Cambridgeshire 01733 893704 unityautomotive.co.uk

Cross Roads Warwickshire 01608 661544 unityautomotive.co.uk

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

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

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

Carstins West Midlands 01676 533145 unityautomotive.co.uk

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

Jeffries of Bacton Suffolk 01449 781087 www.jeffriesofbacton.co.uk

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

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

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

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

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

Garland Motors Ltd Hampshire 01252 367373 www.garlandskoda.co.uk/isuzu

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

Bulldog Twyford Berkshire 0118 9321 331 bulldogtwyford.com

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