ProAgri BNZ 23 by ProAgri

ProAgri B otswa n a / N am i b ia/ ia / Zim b ab w e No 23

Valley Irrigation is committed to Africa

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Botswana page 24

Namibia page 39

Zimbabwe page 43

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More than 100 years’ service

Letter from the Editor easons are changing, which means that farmers are now changing gears from harvesting to preparation for planting. Whether you farm with grain, fruit, or tobacco, a new season always means that there is something new that requires your attention. New seasons bring new phases in the production cycle. This is part of the reason why a farmer’s work never stops. Once one process has been concluded, the next is already starting. That is why it is so important that every farmer needs a team of advisors and suppliers who can enable him to improve his production and profit. I firmly believe that there is no such thing as poor-quality agricultural equipment anymore. The competition between various companies with the same target market is simply too high. This can provide farmers with the ease of mind that the implements they buy are at least on par with the industry standard. So why then do people still have bad experiences when dealing with certain agricultural companies? The difference between a farmer walking away from your business, or becoming a returning customer, lies in the quality and integrity of the service that he receives from your business. In many instances, farmers and their suppliers or service providers forge relationships that extend over generations. If you wish to compete as a supplier or service provider in the agricultural industry, you need to ensure that you provide good quality products at reasonable prices and have the capacity to support your customers in after

Cover

Valtrac supplies leading brands in mechanisation to farmers across Southern Africa. sales service with knowledgeable staff that go the extra mile for their clients. It really is more than just a business relationship. If the farmer feels that you are really interested in his business, and have his best interests at heart, he certainly support you for years to come, and recommend you to anyone who wishes to listen. To find service providers or suppliers that are willing to build lasting relationships with the farmers they deal with, read our articles on www.proagri.co.za or find their products and services on www.agri4all.com. ProAgri gives the farmer a voice to let us know how they experience the products and services they find in the industry.

Farm smartly! Jaco Cilliers jaco@proagri.co.za

Valtra has good news for farmers: An old friend with a new face

Don’t forget your midseason preventative maintenance

Staalmeester is making an impact in Africa... And boasts a growing

exporting footprint 11.

Irrigation excellence: With Valley you need nothing more

13.

Rotary tillers are simple but effective Part 2: The tractor-drawn model and the

Content

self-propelled heavy duty rotary tiller 19.

Farming with goats Part 10: Adding value and marketing your goats

24.

Composting and composting systems Part 6: Composting methods and structures (continued)

28.

The operation and application of medium and big square balers Part 2: The plunger, hay dogs, bale chamber, bale measuring wheel and needles

32.

Vegetable planting guide Part 4: Peanuts

36.

Maak meer van wildsvleis

39.

Voorkom en beheer dikvoet in koolgewasse

43.

Sheep farming made easy Part 5: Biosecurity on sheep farms

ProAgri Botswana / Namibia / Zimbabwe 23

ProAgri B ot s wa n a/ a / N a m i b i a/ a/Zimbabwe

577 Rossouw Street, Die Wilgers, Pretoria +27 (0)79 515 8708 www.proagri.co.za Copyright © 2019. All rights r eserved. No m aterial, text or p hotographs may be r eproduced, copied or in any other way t ransmitted without the written consent of the publisher. O pinions expressed are not n ecessarily those of the publisher or of the e ditor. We recognise all trademarks and logos as the sole property of their r espective o wners. ProAgri shall not be liable for any errors or for any actions in reliance thereon.

ProAgri Editor Jaco Cilliers > +27 71-893-6477 jaco@proagri.co.za Reporters Benine Ackermann > +27 73-105-6938 benine@proagri.co.za Bianca Henning > +27 82-326-2572 bianca@proagri.co.za Specialist Writer Annemarie Bremner > +27 82-320-3642 annemarie@proagri.co.za Client Relations Manager: Carin Swartz > +27 84-233-0123 carin@proagri.co.za Marketing Manager Diane Grobler > +27 82-555-6866 diane@proagri.co.za Marketing Xander Pieterse > +27 79-524-0934 xander@proagri.co.za Johan Swartz > +27 71-599-9417 johan@proagri.co.za Tiny Smith > +27 82-698-3353 tiny@proagri.co.za Anelda Strauss > +27 76-687-4419 anelda@proagri.co.za Janine Vermaak > +27 71-872-3059 janine@proagri.co.za Creative Director Christiaan Joubert > +27 72-419-3990 christiaan@proagri.co.za Design Michelle Kruger & Lizelle Erasmus Enquiries Engela Botha > +27 12-803-0782 engela@proagri.co.za Accounts Ronel Schluter > +27 12-803-0782 accounts@proagri.co.za Business Manager George Grobler

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ProAgri BNZ 23

Valtra has good news for farmers: An old friend with a new face A

farmer’s needs are the first consideration when a Valtra factory redesigns a tractor. The aim is always to provide farmers with practical solutions for their farm. The Valtra team in Brazil has done just that with the fourth generation of BH tractors that are built on the legacy of the previous generation. The BH140 and BH180 models were popular across the Southern Hemisphere for their good working ability, simple design and reliability. TractorZam is now excited to announce the good news that the BH-series Valtra tractors are back in Southern Africa, with a brand-new facelift and exciting features. There are five new models available in the BH series that are mainly distinguished by their engine size. BH stands for Brazilian High Power while the numbers that follow, indicate the model’s horsepower. The BH154 is the smallest of the series and produces 154 horsepower or 114 kW. In addition, there are also the BH174 (129 kW), BH194 (139 kW), BH214 (147 kW) and BH224 (155 kW) available. Beyond its beautiful, modern appearance, Valtra also made quite a few practical improvements to the BH models. Better turning ability is made possible by the shape of their weight frames. The inter-cooler is installed

above the cooler, ensuring proper airflow through the radiator to cool the engine effectively. The section below the radiators is completely sealed and there are seals on the sides of the bonnet to prevent dust and other debris from clogging the radiators. The components inside the AGCO Power engine are exactly the same as those of the Valtra tractors imported from Finland. Farmers can therefore rest assured that there are more than enough spare parts in stock. This engine complies with the exhaust gas legislation for the African agricultural market and is classified as a level 3 engine. BH-series tractors have 210-litre fuel tanks, with the option to increase it to 400 litres. The working capability of the BHseries hydraulic oil pump is 170 litres per minute, ensuring that implements relying on the tractor's hydraulic operation always function perfectly. The hydraulic system is simple, practical, and designed to be connected easily. Its hydraulic oil is also completely independent of its gearbox oil. The hydraulic rate of this system can be controlled from the cab by turning to the rear and adjusting the leavers through the rear window. All pumps are easily accessible under the cab, which makes servicing of the

by Jaco Cilliers

The Valtra BH High-Tec series offers good looks, great performance, durability and reliability, all at an affordable price. tractor easier. There are three valves and a backflow valve, with the option to add more valves depending on the farmer's needs. All three valves have flow control. The lift and power outlet are exactly the same as that of the Finnish 3-series tractors - technology that has already been proven to be effective. The new models have six-speed gearboxes with larger, stronger gears. They also have three-speed shuttles which means they effectively have 18 gears forward and backwards. There is a forward and reverse shuttle lever next to the steering wheel that enables the driver to change direction comfortably. The tractors have very good weight distribution and weigh about 10 tonnes each, making them perfect for dragging heavy implements. Inside the cab are all the necessary controls that are placed in easily accessible locations around the driver. The hand throttle control is adjusted by rotating a button. There is also an automatic, adjustable speed control. The hydraulic levers kick back automatically when the lift arms are raised or lowered to the desired height. The BH194h and BH224h can easily adapt to any GPS system and can be supplied with a Top-Con system. All the electronics of the tractor are ready to fit any control system.

To order your brand new Valtra BH tractor today, contact Zimplow Holdings Limited \ Farmec. Contact details: Randy Pote (Dealer Principle) at +263-772-444-859 or send an e-mail to poter@farmec.co.zw. Visit their website at www.zimplow. co.zw. Valtra introduces the new Valtra-BH Hi-Tech tractors. These tractors fit excellently into the African agricultural industry. ProAgri Botswana / Namibia / Zimbabwe 23

WE BACK EVERY PIVOT WITH

QUALITY, SERVICE & INNOVATION

Patrick Ellis

+27 (0)31 350 4525

patrickellis@reinke.com

www.reinke.com 4

ProAgri BNZ 23

Don’t forget your midseason preventative maintenance Midseason quick checklist • Check system alignment • Check tyre pressure and condition • Check gearbox lubricant levels • Grease all fittings • Verify sprinkler uniformity

”By following the

We supply and install anywhere in Africa Check to make sure each tower is aligned.

preseason and midseason preventative maintenance checklists, you’ll be able to greatly reduce the risk of system failure and downtime during the critical irrigation period. – Todd Merryman, Reinke Manufacturing, Manager of Technical Services

”

t is important to make sure your pivot is operating in tiptop shape no matter what time of the year. Now that preseason preventative maintenance has come and gone, the next step is to identify what you should focus on during midseason. By following the midseason preventative maintenance checklist, you will be able to ensure your pivot is operating smoothly during the peak of the growing season. The next time your pivot is parked along the edge of the field or close to a pivot road, take some time to inspect the system’s components and ensure they are functioning properly. Locating a potential problem and taking preventative measures to fix it before additional damage may occur, will save you crucial downtime and costly repairs.

Contact your Reinke dealer If a problem does occur with your irrigation system, it is beneficial to locate the issue early to prevent further damage down the road. Do not hesitate to contact your local Reinke dealer for answers to all your questions. Reinke dealers are trained and certified service professionals who are equipped with the knowledge needed to troubleshoot and resolve any issue that may occur. Reinke dealers are able to eliminate system downtime by having a selection of genuine Reinke parts on hand to get you up and running as soon as possible. Before calling your Reinke dealer, make sure you have the relevant information available to help speed up the service.

"Finding a flat tyre in the middle of a hot maize field can be like finding a needle in a haystack. That’s why I take extra time to inspect my pivots to try and prevent an issue before it may happen." – Wade Walters, Farmer

"The advantage of using Reinke Genuine Parts for repairs is knowing you are backed by Reinke quality and a warranty.” – Hunter Walls, Walls Irrigation

Weather precautions Being exposed to the elements 365 days a year may increase the risk of weather damage to your pivot. Make sure to inspect your system carefully after severe thunderstorms for any structural or electrical damage that may have been caused by lightning, water, or wind. If your system does not run properly and you suspect there is electrical damage, contact your Reinke dealer immediately. Never tamper with any wiring or electrical components yourself.

Inspect the drivetrain to ensure things are running smoothly during irrigation season.

Information requested by the Reinke dealer: • Your name • System serial number or identifier • System location • How does the problem affect the system? • What was the system doing when the problem occurred? (parked, running wet, running dry) • Is it an intermittent problem? • Are there any commonalities regarding the problem? (time of day, location in field, high or low temperature and main control panel settings)

ProAgri Botswana / Namibia / Zimbabwe 23

• • •

What action, if any, has already been taken to try and remedy the problem? What is the level of urgency for getting this system back in service? How do you want the system left when the repair is completed (stopped or running)?

"I like to gather as much information beforehand, so I can come prepared with a possible solution before I reach the field.” – Jarrod Watson, South Central Irrigation

Contact Patrick Ellis at +27(0)31-350-4525, or e-mail patrickellis@reinke.com, or visit their website at www.reinke. com for more information. 5

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ProAgri BNZ 23

Staalmeester is making an impact in Africa...

And boasts a growing exporting footprint D

id you know that Staalmeester, one of the oldest agricultural machinery manufacturing companies in South Africa, also has a well-established and diverse operational footprint in the rest of Africa? Apart from having agents in Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, Staalmeester exports a range of more than 100 agricultural machinery products to small and medium scale farmers in 18 African countries. The Staalmeester product offering includes: hammer mills, threshers, slashers, balers, mowers, rakes, forage harvesters, hydraulic power packs, boom sprayers, planters, fertiliser spreaders, bale shredders, forage wagons, wood chippers, bale forks and loaders, grain and silage baggers, firewood processing machines, feed mixers, posthole diggers, and hedgers. They also offer a complete range of spare parts. Building forth on a proud legacy This year marks Staalmeester’s 70 th anniversary as a pioneering agricultural

machinery manufacturer, and its expanding export footprint bears testament to the company’s undertaking of being a preferred and reliable mechanisation partner for small and medium scale farmers. The company was founded by PML (Meester) Coetzee in 1951 with the purpose of supplying farmers in central South Africa with well-made agricultural equipment. Today, this vision represents the Staalmeester legacy. “Over the past seven decades a lot of change has been effected globally, and our country in particular has seen a lot of positive change. Despite this, we live in an era where things aren’t always built to last and society consumes a lot and throws away even more. I believe that within this reality Staalmeester has not only impacted the South African agricultural sector, by manufacturing and sourcing reliable and sturdy agric ultural equipment, but also expanded its impact within the African continent,” says Martin Coetzee, Managing Director of Staalmeester. When asked what he considers as the

ProAgri Botswana / Namibia / Zimbabwe 23

company's most sought after qualities, Coetzee says that Staalmeester prides itself on being an expert in the field of affordable and reliable agricultural equipment. Furthermore, the company conducts its business through a wellestablished and diverse network of dealerships and workshops.

For more information about Staalmeester, visit their website: www.staalmeester.co.za

ProAgri BNZ 23

THE DEMAND FOR LIVESTOCK IS GROWING

AND SO ARE YOUR OPPORTUNITIES THE LIVESTOCK SECTOR ACCOUNTS FOR ABOUT

LIVESTOCK PRODUCTION HAS SEEN AN AVERAGE OF

THE MEAT MARKET IS PROJECTED TO REACH

40%

2,7%

34,8 M

OF AGRICULTURAL GDP IN AFRICA

GROWTH PER YEAR IN SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA

TONNES BY THE YEAR 2050

Join one of the fastest-growing agricultural platforms across the African continent. Reach an average of 10 million relevant people across our platforms every month. Target your market directly.

Diane Grobler: +27 (0)82 555 6866 | diane@proagri.co.za ProAgri Botswana / Namibia / Zimbabwe 23

www.agri4all.com 9

Valley® Irrigation is committed to meeting all of your needs for irrigation machines, parts, services and technology. • In the region since 1970s • More than 20 000 pivots installed in Africa • 38 responsive Valley dealerships across Africa • 6 efficient manufacturing plants around the world to serve the region We are the irrigation brand that generations of farmers trust because we have been offering industry-leading solutions and service for generations.

Valley® Irrigation. Here to Stay.

The only thing more durable than our pivots is our commitment to Africa.

Namibia

Francois Griesel

+27 67 412 9089

Botswana

Zimbabwe

Landline Kevin Williams Ross O Donoghue

+263 430 5728 +263 772 601 791 +263 772 419 410

Gary Grubb Larry Noble

Cobus Vermaak Marnus Boshoff

+27 82 450 8823 +27 83 701 3605

+263 772 601 195 +263 772 601 792

emea.valleyirrigation.com 10

ProAgri BNZ 23

Irrigation excellence: With Valley you need nothing more A

vital step towards boosting your production and profit is the erection of a pivot on your farm. Once the pivot is set up and irrigating your crops, or pastures for your livestock, it is only the beginning of your irrigation journey. Like any other piece of equipment, you will learn how to utilise and manage it correctly to ensure that you use this investment effectively and profitably. There are various aspects to irrigation that do not include the pivot itself. You need to manage when to irrigate, how much water to apply at a time and how often to do this. Will you be able to start the pump and pivot remotely, or do you prefer driving to the centre every time the pivot needs to be started or stopped? Will you use the pivot only for irrigation, or will you fertilise your crops with the pivot as well? Through constant research and innovation, Valley irrigation still remains the market leader in irrigation management systems. One example of Valley’s innovative management systems is the Field Commander View®. The Field Commander View® is the industry’s premier remote management solution, installed on more irrigation machines than all other brands’ devices combined. Field Commander View® makes remote monitor-only solutions available to even the most cost-conscious farmers. Benefits of the Field Commander View® include: • GPS position, direction, and machine speed • End pressure with optional (and pre-wired) pressure transducer • Water on/off via end pressure transducer (optional)

•

• • • • • •

Collect “as-applied” irrigation data from your pivot – know where, when and how much water has been applied Use with Valley Scheduling™, or for analytical and/or reporting purposes Monitor rainfall (optional) Low-cost hardware and license Compatible with all brands of irrigation machines Solar powered – no wiring into machine’s electrical cables Easy to install and easy to move

Apart from managing the pivot and the irrigation schedules, you also need to keep an eye on the water usage on your farm. Using water effectively and minimising water wastage can make the difference between a good harvest or crop failure, especially in low rainfall areas. To help the farmer better measure his water input versus the crop production, Valley has introduced their 3000 Flowmeter. The Valley® 3000 is a spool-type electromagnetic flow meter for use in irrigation applications in 102 mm (4”) to 305 mm (12”) pipes. With no moving

parts, the Valley 3000 provides unobstructed flow and superior resistance to wear from debris that can be found in ground or surface water. The Valley 3000 has no bearings to wear out or propellers to stop turning, making it a true minimum-maintenance flowmeter. Minimal straight pipe requirements allow Valley 3000 flowmeters to be used in piping configurations where there is little space between the meter and a fitting or valve. The standard Valley 3000 is battery powered. Both rate and total indication are displayed. Bidirectional flow reading comes standard with totals available in forward, reverse, and net flow. Built-in data logging is an available option for secure flow logging. Set your rate, total units, pulse scaling and various other settings on the front panel touch-key pad. The remote display model (Valley 3000®) provides remote access to control the meter and to view readings. Valley has been leaders in irrigation technology since the 1970’s. They have erected more than 20 000 pivots in Africa through 38 dealerships across the continent. There are six manufacturing plants around the world to ensure that every farmer will receive his pivot or maintenance parts on time, no matter where he is farming. When you deal with Valley, you can expect good quality, expert advice and service excellence. For more information on Valley Irrigation products, contact Francois Griesel on +27(0)67-4129089, or send an e-mail to Francois. Griesel@Valmont.com. You may also visit their interesting website on www.valleyirrigation.com.

ProAgri Botswana / Namibia / Zimbabwe 23

INVEST IN THE FUTURE OF YOUR FARM IRRIGATE WITH ZIMMATIC PIVOTS AND EXPERIENCE UNRIVALED QUALITY. TAILOR MADE IRRIGATION SOLUTIONS

COMBINE FIELDNET TECHNOLOGY WITH YOUR PIVOT AND MANAGE YOUR IRRIGATION FROM ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD.

Contact Tanya Brits on +27-82-853-0265 or visit www.zimmatic.com today! 12

ProAgri BNZ 23

Rotary tillers are simple but effective: Part 2

The tractor-drawn model and the self-propelled heavy duty rotary tiller

rotary tiller should be regarded as an alternative soil cultivation implement that can function in cooperation with other implements, for example tine implements. Some of the rotary tillers are self-propelled and some are tractor driven. The bigger horizontal axis rotary tiller consists of a frame that is attached to the three-point-hitch of a tractor. A gearbox is mounted onto the frame, and the gearbox is driven by the PTOshaft of a tractor (see Figure 1). A horizontal shaft, with sets of blades, is mounted at the bottom of the frame and the power is transferred from the PTO-shaft of the tractor, via the gearbox to the rotor. The blades on the rotor chop into the soil and also mixes the soil with plant residue that gathers at the surface of the soil. The rotor speed of all the rotary tillers can be changed and the change is normally done on the gearbox with a lever or by exchanging the gears inside the gearbox (see Figure 2). There are different types of blades and the blades are usually attached to flanges that are welded onto the round axle of the rotor. Certain models, however, have square axles and the flanges are bolted onto the square axles. The distances between these flanges can therefore be changed easily (see Figure 3).

Figure 1: A tractor-drawn rotary tiller in action.

ProAgri Botswana / Namibia / Zimbabwe 23

RUBIN 12 – THE COMPACT DISC HARROW WITH DEEP IMPACT

With a disc diameter of 736 mm, the Rubin 12 works to depths of up to 20 cm – that is as deep as a cultivator, making it a powerful expert for stubble and primary soil cultivation, even in heavy soils. Discover its many benefits for yourself:  Symmetrical disc arrangement to eliminate side draft  Soil cultivation over the full width from only 7 cm working depth  Harrow for optimum mixing and levelling action  Maximum clearance to prevent clogging

lemken.com 14

ProAgri BNZ 23

Figure 2: The gearbox is mounted on top of the frame. The gears are changed by moving the lever.

The number of blades per flange determines the blade formation. If there are four blades per flange, it is called a double blade formation whereas six blades per flange is called a threeblade formation. The outer two flanges usually have only two or three blades in total. Rotary tillers, powered by the tractor’s PTO-shaft, are the most common types used on farms. Models are available for tractors from 15 to

Figure 3: The flanges are welded onto a round axle and the blades are bolted to the flanges.

120 kW and in a wide variety of widths and operating depths. Although most rotary tillers are used for both primary and secondary tillage, some are built for secondary (heavy) tillage only. The lighter-duty units may be used for primary tillage in lighter soils without heavy trash, but are basically designed for seedbed preparation and planting. The rotor flanges and blades may be rearranged to permit broadcasting or strip tillage.

ProAgri Botswana / Namibia / Zimbabwe 23

The flanges can also be rearranged, after planting, to allow cultivation of the fields (weed control) when the crop is still very small. Most rotary tillers are mounted on the three-point-hitch of a tractor and driven by the PTO-shaft. However, larger rotary tillers are normally attached to the two bottom links of a tractor’s three-point-hitch, especially those that are equipped with planters or spray tanks. These semi-mounted 15

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ProAgri BNZ 23

rotary tillers improve the tractor’s stability by maintaining more weight on the tractor’s front wheels during the transporting process. Rotary tillers that are semi-mounted on tractors have castor wheels, or transport wheels, that also serve as depth control wheels. When a rotary tiller is semi-mounted on a tractor, the top link of the three-point-linkage system is not used and this permits flexibility between the tractor and the cultivator. To loosen the soil to a greater depth, some rotary tillers are equipped with chisel tines at the rear and these tines can be adjusted to work from 8 to 25 cm below the depth of the rotor blades. These tines will break up a plough pan, loosen tight soils for better root penetration and counteract the forward thrust of the rotor. Packer rollers, or clod rollers, can also be mounted at the rear of some of the rotary tillers to act as seedbed shapers (see Figure 4).

Figure 4: A packer roller is mounted at the back of the rotary tiller.

The tractor-drawn model with auxiliary engine for the tiller: In some cases tractor drawn rotary tillers are fitted with an engine to drive the rotor of the tiller while the tractor is pulling the tiller over the field. The advantage of this tiller is that no power is required from the tractor to drive the rotor which means that a smaller tractor can be used. The disadvantages of this tiller however, is that it is more expensive than a rotary tiller of the same size, where the rotor is also driven from the tractor’s engine. The maintenance costs, on auxiliary engine tillers are also much higher. The self-propelled heavy duty rotary tiller These heavy duty models are mostly used in construction and road building, and there is a small application for agricultural purposes (see Figure 5).

Next month we shall look at the Rotary Tillers applications. We thank the ARC Agricultural Engineering in South Africa who made the information on rotary tillers available to the readers of ProAgri BNZ. Figure 5: A self-propelled rotary tiller.

ProAgri Botswana / Namibia / Zimbabwe 23

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Farming with goats Part 10:

Adding value and marketing your goats A

good marketing strategy is the key to any successful business. Being able to reach your target audience is a good start, but you also need to keep other factors in mind. There are some periods in a year when there is a higher demand for goat products than others. You will need to position your business so that you are able to supply the right product, to the right people at the right time. Selling live goats In Southern Africa, goats are almost exclusively sold live for ceremonial slaughter in African homes. The majority of goats visibly sold in South Africa are imported from Namibia and sold at taxi ranks or at the side of the road. These are generally Boer goats. Large numbers of goats are sold, traded, and bartered between communities, families, and farmers. The highest value for indigenous goats is placed on castrated males of 3 years or older. They are valued for their size mainly. It is generally very hard to find young ewes (maiden ewes) for sale. Often, speculators go around the rural areas buying a couple of goats from each farmer until they have enough to make a consignment. The other important marketing time is around October when Muslims buy goats for Eid.

Goat auctions have been tried by the authorities and have been moderately successful albeit expensive. Consider that during the following periods there is a high demand for live goats: • March/April – Easter weekend • June – Eastern Cape (Slaughter of goats for traditional ceremonies) • November – Muslim market • December – Christmas market Demand for different colours Breeding for colours has become a popular pastime for stud breeders of indigenous goats. Currently dappled and spotted goats are popular. You can greatly increase value of goats being sold to breeders in these colours. The popularity and peculiarity of these colours is often trend driven and can change quite rapidly over time. There are also colour biases among African buyers and these should be checked and understood in each locality. Selling live goats in large numbers at auctions If a number of farmers can agree to sell goats as a group, they can reach a critical mass where they can start controlling the marketing of these goats. This is usually done through an

ProAgri Botswana / Namibia / Zimbabwe 23

auction or sales days. Auctions can be a very useful tool to set the price for goats and sell a large number of goats at market prices within a short time. For an auction to be successful these are points to consider: • Communities must be mobilised because auctions need to be strategically timed to occur when buyers will need goats. • If they are for meat goats (cull females and castrates) the best time for selling would be around November. • If they are for breeding stock (rams and maiden ewes) the best time would be in March when they are looking their best. • There needs to be a critical mass of goats per auction (approximately 400 to 600 goats). If too few, buyers will not be bothered, and costs may be too high. • There needs to be a critical mass of buyers (10 to 20) otherwise the prices will be low as the buyers will not compete or will buy what they need and leave early. • At all auctions, a percentage (known as the agent’s fee) gets kept by the auctioneer (usually 8%). The auctioneer can keep the whole amount or split the income with the organisation (farmers’ association) that 19

Botswana organised the auction, as arranged before the time. • Sometimes farmers who are not members of the association can present goats at the auction, but these are auctioned last and as a result can sell for lower prices. • Animals need to be tattooed with a minimum of a dip tank number and optimally with the owner’s personal tattoo. They must also be treated for worms and ticks before the auction and the seller must provide proof of ownership. • Farmers need to agree on a minimum selling price beforehand with the auctioneers, if not, prices may not be acceptable to the farmers, and they will lose money. • The Livestock Anti-Theft Unit must be informed of the sale and preferably be present. • The post-auction process needs to be well organised so that farmers can get paid or take their unsold goats back home without the stock getting mixed up. • Advertising for the auction must be done well in advance so that buyers from further away can plan to attend. 20

Options for financing auctions:

Subsidised auction:

This type of auction can be paid for or subsidised externally by the state or NGOs. Here an entity separate from the livestock association or farmer group carries the cost of the process and infrastructure.

Private or industry paid auction:

This is the more common type. The farmers’ association or similar structure pays the auctioneer to hold the auction. In addition, the auctioneers charge a fee per animal sold (often 8%). Often, if a minimum number of superior quality animals is guaranteed, the auctioneers will not charge the livestock association anything and will make sufficient profit from the commission charged. What this means is that beyond the advertising costs listed below, with at least 400 goats sold and 8% commission collected, the auction should not cost anything more. Items that need to be considered as costs for auctions: Advertising and informing buyers – this is done by the auctioneer though

ProAgri BNZ 23

appropriate newspapers and publications. A text message or short message service (SMS) is commonly used to inform buyers who have a relationship or history with the auctioneer. Advertising in national media outlets can be very expensive. A text message system is charged at cost of bulk messages which is often a lot cheaper.

Informing sellers – this is done by the livestock association.

Sale pens – there is a need for gates

that can be erected in a way that goats can be kept in separate lots and channelled to the auction arena and then kept in separate groups belonging to different buyers. Access to a loading ramp facilitates the loading of goats after the auction.

Staff – to mark each goat coming in,

check that ownership is legitimate and agree on conditions of sale, to hold and control the goats in lots, feed them and water them, and to separate and hold them for buyers.

Food and water – for the goats.

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ProAgri Botswana / Namibia / Zimbabwe 23

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Financial systems – to allow transfers

of money between buyers and sellers. It is preferable if sellers are paid electronically by the buyer, but options for paying with a cheque or cash may also be required. Cash liquidity is a requirement.

Security – The buyers at the auction

will need to know that their cars are safe while they are attending the auction. Security is also needed to ensure that no livestock is stolen at the auction, or that stolen livestock is being sold.

Auctioneers – to conduct the auction. Transport – to transport goats to the auction and if unsold, to transport them back home.

Tent and stands/seats for buyers – Permanent structures can cut these costs.

Informal roadside sales Informal sales are an alternative to formal auctions.

Advantages

• There is no organising • The seller agrees on the price with the buyer.

Disadvantages

• There is no assurance for the buyer that the goats are not stolen. • Sellers are not always informed of what their goats are worth so often a local speculator can abuse the pricing. • The health of the animal cannot be guaranteed. • Farmers often sell at times when they need money so they may be more likely to take a lower price as they need quick cash.

Goat skin. (Image source: www.amennis.nl) Regular markets These are regulated by farmers / livestock associations and covering small geographic areas. This is another alternative to large, formal auctions.

Advantages

• There is control and oversight so there is less selling of stolen goats. • As it is a regular event, there are more than one buyer so competition can lead to higher prices. • Farmers can walk their goats to the market point and back. • If there are enough goats, buyers’ prices will stabilise. • Associations charge a smaller commission but still get the benefit of organising it for their members. • Being regular events, the farmers can plan and manage their herds in order to produce numbers needed for household income (e.g., planned sales versus selling only when quick cash is needed). • There is a higher level of quality assurance for the buyers. • One can begin to track supply and demand data for indigenous goats based on these regular sales which is currently not known.

fact that people slaughter at home at different times of the year would mean that to collect and properly preserve these skins has been unviable. A local South African market for goat skins for making traditional leather marriage skirts, izidwaba, does exist. The skins and the finished product have high value compared to selling skins to car manufacturers, but it is a limited market – geographically and in terms of volumes required.

The information in this article is credited to Mdukatshani, Heifer International South Africa and the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture and Rural Development who published the Goat Production Handbook in 2015.

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Disadvantages

• There can still be speculators setting low prices. • Robberies may occur because of cash regularly being carried to buy quantities of goats. • Without infrastructure it is necessary to keep goats tethered for long periods, which is a challenge. Sale of skins The market for value adding for skins has been explored extensively and although there is a huge demand, the ProAgri Botswana / Namibia / Zimbabwe 23

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Botswana

Composting and composting systems Part 6:

by Ben Havenga

Composting methods and structures (continued) I

n last month’s edition, we looked at wire mesh composting bins, circular, round, and pentagonal structures, as well as the rotating drum composter. Let us now look at our last three composting structures.

Alternatively, the blocks may be stacked with the holes in a vertical position, but with openings between the blocks. Care must be taken to ensure that the openings between the blocks, as shown in Figure 1, are large enough to provide the organic material with sufficient oxygen for aerobic digestion. The openings must however not be too large, as this may cause the organic material to fall through them.

Concrete block composter

Concrete blocks or bricks may be used for building a composting structure. It is easy to build, and the turning of the organic material can be made easier by building two of these structures next to each other. The material on the

top of the one structure can then be scooped off and placed in the bottom of the other structure. With this method the organic material can be transferred layer for layer, for effective composting.

Erection of structure

Materials required: 48 concrete blocks

Figure 1: Concrete block structure. 24

Procedure: During building of the structure, one of the following procedures may be followed: The concrete blocks can be stacked on their sides so that the holes in the blocks can provide ventilation.

Figure 2: Stacked tyres composter.

Composting in stacked tyres

A compost heap can be easily constructed by piling 5 to 7 tyres on top of each other and placing the organic material inside it. To begin the composting, one tyre may be placed down, and the first layer packed in, as described

ProAgri BNZ 23

earlier (Building of a compost heap). The next tyre can then be placed and the second layer packed in. The process is continued until the compost heap is completed. To turn the compost, the top tyre can be lifted, placed on the ground and the compost inside is then placed back into it. The process is continued from the top to the bottom tyre. This creates another compost heap next to the original heap. A two or three container system can be implemented this way by simply placing another heap of tyres next to the other.

Composting in a metal drum

By using a 210-litre drum and drilling it full of holes, a very handy composting unit can be made. The holes are made to aerate the compost. The organic material is then simply placed in the drum in layers for composting. When the compost must be turned, it can be thrown out, turned with a garden fork, and replaced. If more than one drum is available, a two to three drum system can easily be implemented. Holes must also be drilled into the bottom of the drum for drainage of excess water and to prevent the drum from rusting. It is also convenient because it gives the microorganisms in the soil access to the compost.

Figure 4: Underground composting.

Figure 3: Metal drum composter.

Underground composting

Dig two or three holes next to each other in well-drained soil. The holes must be approximately 1 m long, 0,5 m wide and 0,5 m deep. To prevent the walls from crumbling with time, the sides of the holes may be dug with a slight incline to the centre of the holes. Operation: Fill one hole with organic material and water it regularly. The material must ProAgri Botswana / Namibia / Zimbabwe 23

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not be wetted too much because the soil may become saturated. If water collects in the bottom of the hole, it can delay the composting process. After six weeks, the organic material is transferred to the other hole, so that the material that was on top now lands at the bottom of the next hole. The material must be aerated to allow more oxygen to reach all the material. Continue watering the material as before and turn the contents of both holes after six weeks. Repeat the process every six weeks until a period of six months has lapsed. The compost should then be ready for use. To ensure that the heat formed during composting is saved, the compost holes may be covered with plastic after the organic material is placed inside. This might not be the best method of composting, because it may easily be over-watered without noticing. The composting can then be delayed with up to a year. If the composting is however managed, it is an easy and cheap method of composting. This was the last and final part of our composting series. We hope you have gained useful information regarding composting and composting systems. Keep thinking green; happy composting.

We thank the Agricultural Research Council (ARC) of South Africa for the material they provided for the readers of ProAgri BNZ. For more information, visit their website www.arc.agric.za.

ProAgri Botswana / Namibia / Zimbabwe 23

Botswana

The operation and application of medium and big square balers Part 2: The plunger, hay dogs, bale chamber, bale measuring wheel and needles by GJ Stoltz (Reg Eng Tech)

ProAgri BNZ 23

he inside of a square baler is packed with intricate mechanisms. This implement should be able to produce a suitable animal feed source which is compacted sufficiently to not fall apart or allow air inside.

Hay dogs: The hay dogs engage the bale to keep the partly formed bale compressed when the plunger retracts (see Figures 4 and 5).

Plunger: A crank arm and pitman drive the plunger back and forth in the bale chamber at about 80 times per minute. As the plunger moves down the bale chamber, the plunger knife moves past a stationary knife to slice off hay that is still outside the chamber. The plunger then compresses the hay in the bale chamber (see Figures 1, 2 and 3).

Figure 7: The bale density must be high enough so that the bale does not fall apart after ejection from the bale chamber.

Figure 4: The plunger compresses the hay in the bale chamber. The hay passes through the hay dogs and down the bale chamber.

Bale measuring wheel: The bale measuring wheel rotates as the bale moves through the bale chamber. When the wheel completes a cycle, the tying mechanism is tripped. The bale length may be changed by adjusting the bale measuring cycle (see Figures 8 and 9).

Figure 1: The plunger with its guides or wear pads. The plunger knife is mounted on the side of the plunger. Figure 5: The plunger retracts for the next stroke and the hay dogs keep the compressed hay in position. Bale chamber: The process of feeding hay into the bale chamber and compressing it with the plunger is repeated until the bale is formed. The density of the bale is determined by adjusting the springloaded upper and lower tension bars on the bale chamber. On some models the tension bars are controlled hydraulically (see Figure 6).

Figure 8: The wheel rotates as the bale moves through the bale chamber.

Figure 2: Bottom view of the plunger. Roller bearings are used at the bottom.

Figure 9: The bale length can be changed by changing the position of the stop on the cam.

Figure 3: The plunger knife moves past a stationary knife to slice off hay that is still outside the baling chamber.

Figure 6: When adjusting the tension bars closer to each other, the density of the bale becomes higher because more force is needed to push the bale through the chamber.

ProAgri Botswana / Namibia / Zimbabwe 23

Needles: The tying mechanism is timed to synchronise with the plunger movement. When the plunger is at the rear of the baler and the hay is fully compressed, needles deliver the wire or twine to the tying mechanism. As the wire or twine is grasped by the tying mechanism, the needles retract and the bale is tied (see Figure 10). 29

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Figure 10: When the hay is fully compressed, and the measuring wheel activates the tying mechanism, the needles take the twine upwards to the knotters. Wires will be taken upwards to the wire twisters. It is important to study the operator’s manual first before making any adjustments. The process is repeated as each bale passes through the bale chamber and drops off the baler. Forming proper bales is useless unless the hay is tied properly by the tying mechanism (see Figures 11 and 12).

The needles do not penetrate the hay. They go through slots in the plunger head. The needles are protected by spring action or a shear bolt. They will not enter the chamber if there is an obstruction in the chamber or if the plunger is not in position. There is a plunger safety stop to protect the needles from damage by the plunger if the needles enter the chamber too soon or if they remain in the chamber too long (see Figure 13). The safety stop alternatively enters through the bottom of the bale chamber at the same time that the needles start to enter the bale chamber. The stop then remains in position until the needles are fully withdrawn to the home position. If the plunger should move at the wrong time, and is stopped by the safety stop, a shear bolt in the plunger drive is sheared to prevent damage to the baler (see Figure 14).

Figure 15: The plunger has two big slots in front for the needles to pass through.

The needles will then be in the bale chamber only for a fraction of a second while the plunger is at the end of its compressed stroke and the entire tying operation is performed in about 3 seconds. The twine knot, or twisting, takes less than a second and one must look very carefully to follow the entire process with the eye (see Figure 16).

Figure 13: The plunger cannot compress hay if the needles are not back in their “home” position because the safety stop is activated.

Figure 11: The top of a needle can be seen at the bottom of the bale chamber.

Figure 12: The operator’s manual will show how to thread the twine through the different eyes and the needle points from 1 to 4. The measuring wheel cam, or bell crank, operates a trip rod which starts the tying mechanism. First the needles pass from the bottom of the bale chamber to the top of the bale chamber, carrying with them the wire or twine. There the knotting, or twisting device ties the twine. Then the needles withdraw to their home position until the metering wheel hits the trip rod again.

Figure 14: If the plunger should move at the wrong time, and the safety stop is activated, a shear bolt is sheared. Therefore, if the position of the plunger is properly timed, the hay will be compressed into a well formed bale and at the same time the needles will go through the plunger slots and through the bale chamber with the minimum needle-to-hay contact (see Figure 15).

ProAgri Botswana / Namibia / Zimbabwe 23

Figure 16: This needle went through the slot in the plunger and ended up in the knotter where the tying process takes place in a few seconds. Next month we shall discuss the knotter, wire twister, bale preparation and the wire-tie baler. Visit www.arc.agric.za for more information. 31

Botswana

Vegetable planting guide Part 4:

Peanuts N

uts and legumes are very good alternative sources of protein that can be utilised in areas where meat is not readily available or too expensive to buy. Cultivating and supplying peanuts, also known as groundnuts, to the local market can be a lucrative business if it is managed correctly. Botanically, peanuts are classified as legumes; however, for culinary and nutritional purposes, peanuts are considered a nut. Scientific name: Arachis Hypogaea L. Other names: groundnuts, peanuts, matokomane, isivuno, esincono, dzinduhu, samatongomani Background The cultivated peanut or groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.), originated in South America (Bolivia and adjoining countries) and is now grown throughout the tropical and warm temperate regions of the world. This crop was grown widely by native peoples of the New World at the time of European expansion in the sixteenth century and was subsequently taken to Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Pacific Islands. Groundnut production was introduced to the present South Eastern United States during colonial times. Peanut was grown primarily as a garden crop in the United States until 1870.

Agronomic requirements

Soil requirements

Groundnuts grow best in yellow-red and red, well-drained, fertile sandy to sandy loams with a pH range of 5,5 to 7,0. Saline soils are not suitable because the crop has a very low salt tolerance. Soils with more than 20% clay and stones will result in poor yield and make harvesting difficult. Shallow and compacted soils are not preferred, as the taproots of groundnuts can penetrate the soil to a depth of up to 2 m. The most suitable soil forms are Avalon, Bainsvlei, Clovelly, Hutton, Pinedene and Glencoe.

Climatic requirements

It requires a high temperature and a frost-free period of about 160 days. Groundnuts will not reach optimum maturity for a marketable yield to justify commercial production in areas with fewer heat units during the growing season. Groundnuts germinate 95% at soil temperatures ranging from 18 to 30°C. The suitable vegetative growth temperature ranges from 20 to 35°C. However, at 33°C this declines to 84%. The temperature favourable for flowering and pod formation is about 28°C.

Rainfall

Rainfall of about 500 to 700 mm per

ProAgri BNZ 23

annum will be satisfactory for good yields of groundnuts. Wider rows are advisable in low-rainfall areas, while narrow rows are suitable in higher rainfall areas. Row spacing therefore varies from as close as 65 cm to the wider 90 cm between the rows.

Cultivars

There are few registered cultivars for groundnuts in Southern African countries; however, research on cultivar improvements is underway. Always try to plant more than one cultivar to ensure a better harvest. Never put all your trust in only one cultivar. For a detailed list of registered cultivars, farmers are advised to consult the local extension officers and local seed suppliers’ agronomists. Cultivation practices

Soil preparation

Seedbeds should be prepared, either on a flat or widely ridged field. Primary soil cultivation is necessary on virgin soils or any other soil type to remove debris and break the plough layer. A uniform seedbed with sufficient planting depth and spacing, excellent germination, weed control and good moisture retention is imperative for good yields. All plant residue should be well incorporated into the soil to prevent disease pressure build-up.

Fertilisation

Substantial evidence exists to show that groundnuts respond to additional fertiliser applications, even though this is not imperative in rural situations. Groundnuts are adapted to a soil with a pH (H20) of 5,3 to 7, and if the pH is out of this range, certain elements become unavailable, such as iron and zinc. Being a leguminous crop, groundnuts can fix atmospheric nitrogen (N) with the aid of root bacteria. For this reason, this crop is not dependent on nitrogen fertilisation. On the other hand, it is very important to apply calcium in the form of gypsum at a rate of 400 to 700 kg/ha as this improves the quality of the crop and helps with resistance to diseases.

Planting

The planting date for groundnuts in Southern Africa is mid-October to end-November. Planting should occur during favourable soil and weather conditions. A planting depth of 5 to 7 cm is preferred for better germination when soil temperature is at 18˚C or above. The preferred population density is 150 000 plants per hectare on dryland and 300 000 plants per hectare under irrigation. The ideal row width for Spanish runner type groundnuts under rainfed conditions should be 90 to 100 cm spacing between rows and under irrigation from 30 to 45 cm.

A hand rule to ensure the right plant population is 50 to 80 kg/ha seed under dryland conditions and 80 to 120 kg/ha under irrigation conditions.

Irrigation

Most of the cultivated groundnuts in Southern Africa are under dryland conditions. Irrigation can be applied in areas with limited soil moisture / low rainfall areas to maximise production and quality. The irrigation method will depend on the available water resources and the available irrigation equipment.

Weed control

Groundnuts are susceptible to a wide range of weeds, which are in huge competition with groundnuts for available soil moisture, soil nutrients, light, space or serve as hosts for diseases. Weeds can result in a low yield, poor quality of the groundnut seeds, difficult earthing up and difficulty in harvesting. As such, an integrated system, ranging from chemical, mechanical to biological, should be used in order to effect weed suppression. Effective weed control implies good eradication of weeds throughout the growing season. A good crop rotation system will also combat weeds and the appearance of diseases in groundnuts. ProAgri Botswana / Namibia / Zimbabwe 23

Namibia 34

ProAgri BNZ 23

Pest disease control

Diseases in groundnuts can be classified as leaf, stem, and pod diseases. In addition to these, particular viral diseases are encountered. Insect pests such as termites could also plague the groundnut farmer. All these diseases and pests can be identified by using the publication “Groundnut diseases and pests” of the ARC-Grain Crops Institute. For information on chemical control “A guide to the use of pesticides and fungicides in the Republic of South Africa” published by the national Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries should be consulted.

Harvesting maturity and method

The number of days to maturity varies with cultivars. There are some characteristics that need close attention and observation to determine harvest maturity, namely:

• Pod colour - inner walls display a dark-brown colour as a result of darkening of the inner tissue of the hull. • Seed colour - young, immature seed is white and changes to pink and dull pink as the seed matures. For harvesting a digger-shakerwindrower is used to lift groundnuts and detach them from the soil. Dig deep enough to prevent cutting pegs. Windrow-inverting attachments orient plants as they leave the shaker so that pods are primarily on the top of windrows to permit better air circulation and exposure to sunlight for a shorter drying time. Importance and uses Human uses: Seeds yield a non-drying, edible oil used in cooking, margarines, salads, canning, for deep-frying, for shortening in pastry and bread.

Seeds are eaten raw, whole roasted and salted, or chopped in confectioneries, or ground into peanut butter. Young pods may be consumed as a vegetable. Young leaves and tips are suitable as a cooked, green vegetable. Other products include ice cream, massage oil and peanut milk.

Industrial uses: Groundnut oil is also

used for pharmaceuticals, soaps, cold creams, cosmetics, dyes, paints, pomades and lubricants, emulsions for insect control and fuel for diesel engines. The hulls are used for furfural, fuel and as filler for fertilisers.

Livestock uses: Oilcake serves as

a high-protein livestock feed. Foliage provides silage and forage. Groundnut hulls are also used as livestock feed. The vines with the leaves are excellent high-protein hay for horses and ruminant livestock.

The information provided in this article is credited to the South African Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. For more information visit their website on www.daff.gov.za or contact them on +27(0)12-319-6072 or send an e-mail to DPP@nda.agric.za.

ProAgri Botswana / Namibia / Zimbabwe 23

Namibia

Maak meer van wildsvleis

Foto: www.la-motte.com

ie dae is verby dat ons net biltong en droëwors van wildsvleis gemaak het. Wildsvleis het baie gewild geraak en is ’n gunsteling op die meeste top restourante se spyskaarte. Die veelsydigheid van wildsvleis is hiervoor verantwoordelik en dan is dit natuurlik ook ’n keurgereg vir buitelandse besoekers. Die gesondheidsvoordele dra verder by tot die gewildheid van wildsvleis. Die lae kolesterolvlakke en vetinhoud is veral gesog onder die gesondheidsbewustes. Om wildsvleis suksesvol voor te berei, is ’n paar faktore belangrik. Die eerste is die jagproses. Die skootplasing moet verkieslik so wees dat so min as moontlik vleis beskadig word. Makliker gesê as gedaan! Indien dit nie moontlik is nie, moet daar minstens probeer word om die sagter snitte (gedeeltes uit die agterste deel van die dier) te beskerm. Daarna 36

moet die karkas so gou en so goed as moontlik uitbloei. Voordat die dier geskiet word, is die spiere gewoonlik sag, behalwe wanneer die dier in spanning verkeer. Nadat die dier geskiet is begin rigor mortis intree, wat die verstywing van die spiere behels. In groot diere is die proses stadiger en duur ook langer as in kleiner spesies. Indien die karkas vir een tot twee dae in ’n koelkas (2 tot 4°C) gehang word, sal die vleis begin sagter word soos die rigor mortis-proses eindig. Rypmaak Indien die vleis langer gehang word, sal dit begin ryp word. Die karkas kan vir ’n verdere 3 tot 5 dae in die koelkas hang om goed ryp te word. Die rypwordingsproses kos natuurlik geld, as gevolg van die verlies van vog (tot 20%) en ook die verkoelingskoste. Dit is egter steeds

die moeite werd, omdat die sagtheid van die vleis verhoog word en die sappigheid en geur verbeter. Gaarmaak Met die gaarmaak van wildsvleis is daar verskeie doelwitte. Sekere metodes plaas die klem op die verwydering van die “wilde smaak”, terwyl ander meer gerig is op die verhoging van sagtheid en sappigheid en ook om droogheid te voorkom. Wildsvleis is oorspronklik vir lang tye gemarineer in mengsels van asyn en wyn. Die rede hiervoor was om die vleis sagter te maak en om die “wilde smaak” uit te skakel. As vleis ryp genoeg gemaak is, sal dit sag wees sonder om te veel suur by te voeg. Die nuutste neiging is om wildsvleis te marineer in natuurlike joghurt of karringmelk waarby ’n paar jenewerbessies, lourierblare, peperkorrels, uieringe

ProAgri BNZ 23

en wortelskywe gevoeg is. Voordat die vleis gaargemaak word, word dit eers skoongevee. ’n Ander metode is om die vleis met gesmelte botter te bedek, waarin gekneusde jenewerbessies en peperkorrels gemeng is. Avokado-olie of olyfolie kan ook op dieselfde manier gebruik word. Andersins kan die vleis ook vir ’n paar uur in ’n mengsel van olyfolie, balsamiese asyn en knoffel geweek word om die geur daarvan te verbeter. Die gaarmaakmetodes wat vir wildsvleis gebruik word, is soortgelyk aan dié van bees- en skaapvleis. Die taaiste snitte (waar die meeste beweging plaasvind) word langer gaargemaak deur die gebruik van klamhitte. Hierdie is snitte soos die nek, blad en skenkels. Die vleis word eers in warm olie geseël en daarna word die verhitte vloeistof bygevoeg. Enige vloeistof kan gebruik word. Wyn, bier, vleisaftreksel en vrugtesap is gewoonlik die suksesvolste. Appelsap werk veral goed saam met vlakvark. Sagter vleissnitte word met droëhitte-metodes, soos rooster, oondbraai en braai, gaargemaak. Fillet, kruisskyf, T-been en boud kan op een van hierdie maniere gaargemaak word. Die belangrikste is om nie die vleis oorgaar te maak nie, omdat dit dan droog sal wees. Wildsvleis kan maar pienk bedien word sodat daar nog genoeg vleissappe teenwoordig is. Om te verseker dat die vleis nie te droog is nie, kan ekstra vet bygevoeg word in die vorm van ’n bedruipmengsel. Die vleis kan ook met stukkies vet wat in kruie gerol is gestop word, of bedek word met vet of spekvleis. ’n Springbokboudjie is baie lekker wanneer dit in ’n vetterige lamsrib

toegerol word en dan oor baie stadige kole gerooster word. Bygeregte Bygeregte verbeter die geur van die wildsvleis. Soet- en suurkombinasies werk goed, soos vrugte wat gekook word in wynasyn wat gegeur is met suiker en mosterd. Perskes gebak in muskadel is ook ’n goeie keuse. Sous kan gebruik

word om die vleis ryker te maak. Daar is ook geleenthede om ekonomiese voordeel uit wildsvleis te trek. Kosmarkte is deesdae baie gewild in die stede. Spesiale wildsvleisgeregte kan by hierdie kosmarkte bemark word. Met al die nuwe idees en resepte geskik vir wildsvleis kan dit sekerlik nie meer net gebruik word vir biltong en droëwors nie.

Foto: www.baymeatmarket.co.za Vir wildsvleisdemonstrasies en -praatjies skakel dr Carina Kleynhans, Departement van Gasvryheidsbestuur, Tshwane Universiteit van Tegnologie by +27 (0)12-382-6503 of +27 (0)82-857-0789. Visit www.proagri.co.za to read the Make the most of your game meat article in English.

ProAgri Botswana / Namibia / Zimbabwe 23

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Voorkom en beheer dikvoet in koolgewasse T

eleurstellende en verwoestende nuus vir enige koolgewasboer is sekerlik die verskyning van dikvoetsiekte op die plaas. Dikvoet is ՚n vreesaanjaende siekte vir enige Brassicaboer, daarom moet die boer deurgaans bedag bly om die siekte te identifiseer en sy boerdery fyn bestuur om steeds produkte te lewer. “Produsente moet aanvaar dat dikvoet deel van die risiko’s sal bly solank koolgewasse geplant word,” sê Francois Barnard, saadspesialis van InteliSeed. “Die siekte sal meer of minder raak volgens die seisoene van die jaar, maar nie verdwyn nie. Hierdie ontdekking hoef nie noodwendig die einde van koolgewasse op die plaas te beteken nie, want met noukeurige bestuur en gebruik van die regte kultivars kan boere nog steeds produkte aan klante lewer.” Om die oorhand te kry oor hierdie grond-, wind- en plantoorgedraagde siekte, is dit belangrik om te weet hoe dit lyk, waar dit skuil, hoe dit beweeg en – baie belangrik – hoe om dit te beveg! Francois Barnard deel graag sy kennis oor dikvoet se oorsprong, invloed en die bestuur met ProAgri se lesers. Waar is dikvoet ontdek en wat is die invloed daarvan op die bedryf? Dikvoet word veroorsaak deur ՚n mikro-organisme genaamd Plasmodiophora brassicae. Die eerste verwysing na dikvoet was in die 13de eeu in Europa. In die laat 18de eeu vernietig dikvoet ՚n groot koolaanplanting buite die stad St Petersburg, Rusland. Die Russiese wetenskaplike, Mikhail Woronin, identifiseer die dikvoet-siekte as die organisme Plasmodiophorous in 1875 en gee dit die naam Plasmodiophora Brassicae. Sedertdien het die siekte na 176 lande versprei. Dit is nie ՚n swam of ՚n bakterie soos baie ander plantpatogene nie, maar dit is wel ՚n eensellige organisme met eienskappe soortgelyk aan swamme. Die simptome is opgeswelde wortels, soos duidelik sigbaar in Figuur 1, 2 en 3. Blare toon tydelike verwelk gedurende sonnige dae, maar soos die plant verswak, verander dit in permanente verwelk.

Figuur 1: Dikvoet in koolgewasse kan ՚n groenteboer se produksiedrome verpletter.

Figuur 2: Dikvoetsimptome op die wortels van blomkool.

Figuur 3: Dikvoetsimptome op die wortels van brokkoli.

Wat is die siekte, hoe beweeg dit in die grond en waarom is dit so moeilik om te beheer? Die siekte is ՚n oerswam wat deur die beweging van gronddeeltjies versprei word van plaas tot plaas, streek tot streek en provinsie tot provinsie. Die spoor beland in die grond en wanneer

՚n gasheer beskikbaar is, baie grondvog teenwoordig, hoë grondtemperature (20 – 24 °C) en die pH laer as 6,5 is, ontkiem die spoor en produseer soöspore. Die swam tas hoofsaaklik brokkoli, brusselse spruitjies, kool, blomkool, rape, radys- en mosterdtipes aan.

ProAgri Botswana / Namibia / Zimbabwe 23

Namibia

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ProAgri BNZ 23

Die soöspore, wat parasiete is, swem deur die vogtige grond en dring die gasheerplant se wortels binne deur wonde of wortelhare. Hier vorm dit ՚n plasmodium (massa protoplasma sonder selwande en met talryke selkerns) deur die herverdeling van baie Amebe-tipe selle. Hierdie spore kan dan weer die oorspronklike gasheer herbesmet of dit kan ander gasheerplante in die omgewing aanval. Hierdie sekondêre soöspore word meganies versprei, of deur water-erosie, en vorm dan 'n sekondêre plasmodium wat die gasheer se hormone aantas. Dit is hierdie sekondêre plasmodium wat die selswelling op die wortels veroorsaak. Die selle verander dan na wortelgalle, waarin die spore rustend oorwinter wanneer die galle verrot. Die rustende spore kan tot 20 jaar in die grond oorleef, in afwagting op ՚n wortelpunt van ՚n gasheerplant wat daar naby groei. Dikvoet het baie meer gashere as net koolgewasse en soos lande navorsing doen omtrent die siekte, vind hulle al hoe meer uit van die gashere. ՚n Paar bekende spesies wat as gashere kan dien is: • Kweekgras • Herderstassie (Capsella bursapastoris) • Rooiklawer • Doringpapawer Wat is die simptome op die land? Een van die eerste simptome van ՚n land wat dikvoet het, is dat die dele wat nie versuipte kolle is nie verwelk teen drie tot vier ure na sonop, wanneer die transpirasievlakke van die plant sy wateropname oortref. As die plante dan uitgetrek word, sal ՚n mens abnormale verswelling van die wortels vind en die galle wat daar sit belemmer die opname van voedingstowwe en water. Ander simptome sluit in: • Vergeling, verdwerging en verwelking van plante • Verlaagde produksie en gehalte (houvermoë) • Plante gaan te vroeg dood • Jong, wit galle op die wortels (Britte het dit Vingers-en-Tonesiekte genoem) Wat is die oplossing vir die beheer van die gevreesde oerswam? In 1987 het Peter Tjeertes besluit om te begin teel aan ՚n breë-spektrum weerstand teen die vernaamste spesies dikvoet op koolgewasse. In 1995 behaal sy span die deurbraak en na wêreldwye proewe, bevestig Syngenta die weerstand en doen in 2003 aansoek om patentregte op die gene. In 2008 begin Syngenta proewe in Suid-Afrika en sedertdien is daar gevind dat die weerstand baie goed staan teen die spesies dikvoet wat in ons grond voorkom.

Figuur 4: Dikvoetsimptome op brokkoliplante. ՚n Ander uitweg is die gebruik van chemiese gewasoplossings om die grond te berook. Hierdie produkte is baie doeltreffend, maar ook ՚n baie duur oplossing. Een probleem wat met beroking ontstaan, is dat niemand die tydperk kan voorspel wat ՚n land na beroking veilig teen dikvoet sal wees nie. Die kanse is goed dat voertuie, diere of mense die siekte binne 6 tot 12 maande weer na die land kan versprei, en omdat kool ՚n laewaardegewas is, regverdig dit nie die koste of risiko om die siekte so te beheer nie. Die groot vraag bly: Hoe moet ՚n koolgewasboer sy plaas se gewasproduksiestelsels benader? Wanneer dikvoet wel op die landerye gevind word, moet die boer klem lê op die volgende aspekte: Neem waar Dit is belangrik dat gereelde besoeke aan alle dele van ՚n land afgelê moet word, veral nat kolle en naby ingangshekke waar werktuie besmette grond kon indra. Trek verdagte plante uit om te kyk vir enige verdikkings ondergronds. Verwyder Enkele plante wat tydens warm dae verlep, kan op die siekte dui en indien sulke plante wel dikvoet het, moet dit verwyder en vernietig word. Onthou dat verskeie onkruidsoorte gasheer kan speel vir hierdie organisme. Staak Beskerm jou plaas teen dikvoetbesmetting deur voete en verkeer deur jou plaas en landerye te beperk. Indien ՚n besmette gebied geïdentifiseer is, moet die grond liewers nie versteur word nie. Die spore is baie mobiel en kan maklik beweeg, hetsy in klonte

ProAgri Botswana / Namibia / Zimbabwe 23

Figuur 5: Die blomkoolkultivar links het ՚n genetiese weerstand teen dikvoet teenoor die kultivar regs wat nie weerstandig is nie. grond wat vassit aan skoene, wiele, en werktuie, of met deur stof wat deur die wind gewaai word. Die aanbeveling is dat die betrokke stuk grond bedek moet word en glad nie bewerk moet word nie. Wisselbou Wisselbou is belangrik om gashere vir die siekte te beperk. ՚n Wisselboustelsel waar daar vir minstens twee jaar geen Brassica-gewasse geplant word nie, behoort spoorgetalle in die grond te laat verminder. Bestuur Bestuur die grondstatus deur te fokus op 'n pH van >7, oorbenatting van lande te beperk of gebruik te maak van drupbesproeiing, en die produksie van koolgewasse wanneer die grondtemperatuur >20 °C is. Beheer ook onkruid tussen gewasse sodat daar nie gashere op die lande kan groei nie en maak gebruik van dekgewasse. Plant weerstandbiedende kultivars van Syngenta. Dit is belangrik om bedag en waaksaam te wees en vroegtydig te reageer sodra probleme kop uitsteek. Tesame met bogenoemde aspekte, haal weerstandige kultivars die risiko uit die verbouing van blomkool, brokkoli, kopkool en Brusselse spruite in besmette grond. Bronne: Compendium of Brassica Diseases, Rimmer, S R et al, bl 25 – 28 InteliSeed. Visit www.proagri.co.za to read the Keeping your cole crops clear of diseases article in English. 41

Zimbabwe 42

ProAgri BNZ 23

Sheep farming made easy Part 5:

Biosecurity on sheep farms

iosecurity means the management practices that are followed to prevent the introduction and spread of diseases. Healthy animals are the cornerstone of successful sheep farming. Biosecurity is important no matter what size flock or farm you have. It takes only one sheep to introduce a new disease and one farm to start a disease epidemic. Acquisition of new animals Purchasing new animals poses the single greatest risk to biosecurity on a sheep farm. While livestock may outwardly appear healthy, they could carry a wide variety of diseases. Whenever a new animal is introduced to the flock, there is a potential risk of that animal introducing a new disease. It is important to note that sheep and goats share most of the same diseases. Sheep and goats also share some diseases with cattle. Before adding new sheep to your farm, it is important to know the health status of the farm or flock(s) from which you are buying or receiving animals. Do not be afraid to ask questions about the farm's health programme, and the disease status of the flock. Only buy sheep from reputable breeders. Ideally, you should purchase sheep from closed or mostly closed flocks. A closed flock is a flock that has not introduced new animals for the past three or more years. It is best to buy sheep from as few sources as possible. You should not purchase animals from flocks or farms in which you observe lameness, abscesses, sore mouth, ringworm, cloudy eyes, or other clinical signs of disease. While healthy-appearing animals may still be harbouring these diseases, many diseases can be avoided by thoroughly observing and inspecting the animals you purchase, and the farm from which they originate.

Foot-rot is highly contagious. (Photo: flickr.com.)

ProAgri Botswana / Namibia / Zimbabwe 23

Inspect sheep for soundness Mature ewes can be a good option when starting or expanding a flock, but you need to make sure they are healthy and sound. When purchasing 43

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mature ewes, be sure to palpate their udders to make sure they do not have any lumps, scar tissue, or hard spots, which could be indications of mastitis. Examine their teeth to determine their age and soundness. As the sheep ages, the teeth will start to wear, spread, and eventually break off. Ewes with weak or almost no teeth only have few productive years left. Palpate the testicles of rams. Do not purchase rams with reproductive abnormalities or structural defects. Make sure their mouths are sound, too.

While in isolation, new animals should have their hooves trimmed and inspected for foot-rot and other hoof problems. It is not a bad idea to assume that all new animals were exposed to foot-rot. Footrot is usually introduced (via bacteria) to a farm through the introduction of infected animals. To prevent the introduction of worms to your flock, it is important to deworm new animals.

Limit access to your farm and flock Some diseases can be spread by contaminated footwear and vehicles. By Isolate new sheep limiting access to your farm Newly purchased sheep and sheep, you can limit should be isolated for at the risk of introducing and It is important to examine your sheep’s teeth to deterleast two weeks, preferably spreading diseases. When mine their age and soundness. (Photo: flickr.com.) thirty days, before allowing people are given access to them to come into contact your flock, they should not with other animals on your farm or have been on another sheep farm for Isolation/quarantine areas should not being turned out to pasture. A period of several days. They should be required share the same space with the rest of isolation provides an opportunity to to wear plastic boots or thoroughly the flock. A distance of at least thirty detect a disease problem before the disinfect their footwear before entering metres is recommended. The further rest of your sheep or premises are the isolation pen from the rest of the your sheep-raising areas. Make sure exposed. trucks and trailers are clean. flock, the better.

Isolate new arrivals on the farm. (Photo: flickr.com.) ProAgri Botswana / Namibia / Zimbabwe 23

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Maintaining a closed flock is the best way to prevent disease. (Photo: flickr.com.)

Maintain a closed flock The best way to maintain a healthy flock is to maintain a closed flock. Once the genetics of the ewe flock have been established, replacement females should be selected from within the flock, and new acquisitions should be limited to rams. Good management Dead carcasses, placenta, and foetal tissues should be removed immedi-

ately to prevent the introduction and/ or spread of diseases. Composting is often the best way to dispose of reproductive wastes. Under no circumstances should carcasses and other waste products be left for dogs or wild animals to eat. Every farmer should develop a written biosecurity plan and follow it to prevent the introduction of diseases and other problems.

ProAgri Botswana / Namibia / Zimbabwe 23

Next month we shall look at waste management on sheep farms. We thank the ARC Institute for Agricultural Engineering in South Africa who made their manual on sheep production and facilities available to the readers of ProAgri.

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