ProAgri Zambia 004 - February 2016 by ProAgri

ProAgri technology for the farmer

Z a m b i a February 2016 Nr 04

Free

Stock farming:

Prepare for Agritech 2016

Guidelines for the drought The art of haymaking

The

solution

Letter from the Editor

hen everything is in abundance, nothing has value. It is only when we stare into the blue sky willing the tiny white wisps of cloud to collect and dump their water on the dry earth and when we start to ration the little feed we have left between hungry mouths that we really value our natural resources again. The earth gives and all we can do is to take care of what we receive to the best of our ability. Conservation farming is not just a fashionable term, it is a necessity. Much research has been done on farming methods, the best equipment and seed to use, ways to improve the health of farm animals and irrigation techniques – all with the purpose of conserving natural resources while increasing productivity. To convey the information to the farmers who can and should use it, is the challenge. ProAgri Zambia, with its policy of free distribution, hopes to play a significant role in getting the message across, from supplier to user. We are also excited to be involved in the Agritech Expo where everybody can meet face to face to ask and answer questions. We are also looking forward to the opportunity to meet you, our reader, and to hear what you need from us. Meanwhile we hope you find the articles in this issue interesting and of value. There is something for everyone, from the science of soil to the practicalities of animal husbandry in the drought. Let us know what you think and also where you pick up your copy of ProAgri Zambia. Be smart: farm smartly with ProAgri Zambia. Annemarie Bremner > annemarie@proagri.co.za

Cover

The agricultural and construction equipment giant, JCB, is expanding into the growing African market with the support of AFGRI with its well-established network of dealerships and service. Read more on p 2.

ProAgri technology for the farmer

Z a m b i a

Office no. 3 Fens Investment Building Lusaka Show Grounds

+26 (0)96-216-9801 www.proagri.co.za

Copyright © 2013. All rights reserved. No material, text or photographs may be reproduced, copied or in any other way transmitted without the written consent of the publisher. Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher or of the editor. We recognise all trademarks and logos as the sole property of their respective owners. ProAgri shall not be liable for any errors or for any actions in reliance thereon.

ProAgri Zambia Editor Annemarie Bremner > +27 82-320-3642 annemarie@proagri.co.za

General Manager Zambia Quintus Grobler > +26 (0)96-216-9801 quintus@vanetechnology.com Reporter Du Preez de Villiers > +27 82-598-7329 dupreez@proagri.co.za Marketing Xander Pieterse > +27 79-524-0934 xander@proagri.co.za

Samantha Luyt > +26 (0)96-446-7723 samluyt@proagri.co.za

AFGRI has the JCB-solution for your farm

John Deere: The S.M.A.R.T. campaign to raise productivity

Grow with Agritech Expo

12 SOIL: The farmer’s most important asset (3)

mart! Farm s

Content

16 Guideline for livestock production during the drought – 2016 21 Farm management prior to and on the day of chick delivery 24 Make good quality hay 27 Be on the lookout for buffalo disease 32 Senter 360 water-propelled pivot reaches for the sky 35 New filter technology ensures smooth irrigation

ProAgri Zambia 04

Stefan van Wyk > +27 82-381-7563 stefan@agritrader.co.za

Design Esta van Niekerk Enquiries Engela Botha > +27 12-803-0667 engela@proagri.co.za Accounts Ronel Keet > +27 861-777-225 accounts@smartpublishing.co.za Distribution Du Preez de Villiers > +27 12-803-0667 dupreez@proagri.co.za.co.za Business manager George Grobler

February 2016

A JCB 531-70 Loadall Telehandler demonstration in Lusaka.

has the for your farm Good news: The agricultural and construction equipment giant, JCB, is expanding into the growing African market with the support of AFGRI with its well-established network of dealerships and service. ZAMBEEF in Zambia is one of the companies already enjoying the benefits of this relationship.

“A

s the largest dairy operation in Zambia, we required a versatile, strong and reliable machine for our feeding and silage handling operations. The 560-80 JCB Loadall Telehandler acquired from AFGRI was the ideal machine to match our requirements,” says Steve Hapelt, Kalundu Dairy General Manager, ZAMBEEF PLC Ltd. Steve was one of the first customers to enjoy the benefits of the recently forged relationship between AFGRI and JCB. With its extended network and proven service reliability in the agricultural community of Africa, AFGRI is the ideal partner to distribute JCB’s range of superb equipment in Zambia. The Kalundu Dairy farm certainly is a worthy testing ground for equipment and services with its 2 600 strong dairy herd, with more than 900 lactating cows. The farm produces over 7,4 million litres of milk per year, and 2

February 2016

to maintain this kind of production the cows need the best food at the right time every day. The farm uses a TMR (total mixed rations) feeding system and therefore needs to handle different materials, from silage to bales of hay. Steve says they also purchased a bale grabber to load and stack bales, a silage shear grab ideal for tearing silage from the silage pits, and a large general purpose bucket for loading applications, to add to the value of the Loadall Telehandler. All equipment in the feed production and handling system need to be strong and reliable, because the work never stops, and the feeding process may never be postponed or skipped. “We are extremely pleased with the performance and capability of this particular machine. We are also fully satisfied with the service we have received from the AFGRI sales team

-solution and service department. I would strongly recommend it as a quality general purpose agricultural machine,” says Steve. The JCB 560-80 Agri Plus Loadall Telehandler was the first of its kind to be sold by an agricultural dealer in Africa, says a proud Victor van den Berg, Product Specialist from AFGRI Corporation Zambia Ltd. The JCB 560-80 Agri Plus has a JCB 4,8 litre DIESELMAX engine, a JCB power shift transmission, JCB axles, cab and rams. It also comes standard with four wheel steer for working in any environment. The boom has a 6 ton lifting capacity and an impressive lift height of 7,9 m - high enough to grab any bale from the highest stack and into the feed mixer. It is not only the agricultural

ProAgri P A i ZZambia bi 04

sector benefitting from this liaison between JCB and AFGRI. Omicron is a well known Lusaka based construction company in Zambia, specialising in general building contracts, civil works, road and earthworks. Charles Mandhla Zulu, Operations Director, Omicron Services (Z) Ltd, says they recently acquired the JCB 2DX Backhoe Loader: “The 2DX is a strong and versatile machine. We use it primarily for its loading applications during our ready-mix concrete production operations, however the backhoe is also a great addition for excavations on our construction projects.” Victor explains that the 2DX is the perfect machine for those who may not necessarily need a conventional TLB. It is a robust, versatile, multipurpose machine that can be used for a range of applications, such as grading, loading, trenching, excavating and material handling. He says: “The machine is extremely well priced and comes with AFGRI’s leading aftermarket services.”

Matthew Barkas, JCB Territory Manager; Steve Hapelt, General Manager, Kalundu Dairy; and Victor van den Berg, AFGRI Product Specialist with the first JCB 560-80 Agri Plus Loadall Telehandler to be sold by an agricultural dealer in Africa.

JCB was established 70 years ago as a privately owned manufacturer of construction, agricultural and industrial machines. Founded in a lock-up garage by Joseph Cyril Bamford in the market town of Uttoxeter, England, the company has expanded dramatically under the leadership of Lord Bamford, who took over the role of Chairman from his father in 1975. Today JCB has 22 plants worldwide; 11 in the UK and others in India, USA, China and Brazil. JCB’s success is built on innovation and the company offers more than 300 different products for the sectors it serves. The company is the world market leader for backhoe loaders and Loadall telescopic handlers. From its dedicated World Parts Centre in the UK and 15 parts centres all over the globe, customers receive the best service back-up in the business. JCB sells its innovative agricultural range though a dedicated network of dealers, ensuring agricultural customers get world-class support whenever they need it. JCB’s growing presence in agriculture around the world incorporates expansion in Africa, where AFGRI Corporation Ltd Zambia began selling the JC range in 2015. JCB ProAgri P A i ZZambia bi 04

Showing off the 2DX Backhoe Loader are Charles Mandhla Zulu, Operations Director Omicron Services; Victor van den Berg, AFGRI Product Specialist; and Collin Muyanja, Director Omicron Services.

Let AFGRI help you to decide how JCB can make your work load lighter. Phone Victor van den Berg at +260-963-85-3388 or send an e-mail to vdb@afgri.com.zm. February 2016

Fully recover your yield easy – quick – reliable with Vitamech’s

MacDon FD75 FlexDraper: The MacDon FD 75 FlexDraper consists of three articulated sections with a split reel. This design ensures that the ground contours are duly followed and that the same distance is maintained between the reel and the cutter bar in all circumstances. The FlexDraper consistently conveys material head first and smoothly into the combine’s feeder house. • • • • • • • • • • •

Win with draper performance at its best: Recover your whole yield with ground-following, close-cutting, smooth-feeding, durable, dependable farmer-friendly header technology True ground following with three-section flexible header and split reel Conforms to the ground with minimal ground pressure Locks easily and quickly into rigid conformation Handles wet material and pods on the point of shattering 4 reel cam positions to match all harvest conditions Hydraulic, on-the-go reel fore-aft and header tilt adjustment C-shaped cutter bar for smoother crop flow and a short transition to draper Proven durability of the MacDon Wobble Box hydraulic knife drive with adjustable speed to match crop conditions Reel mounted on cutter bar ensures a fixed small gap between reel fingers and cutter bar Smooth, consistent heads-first feeding of crops Available in 9,1m; 10,6m; 12,2m; and 13,7m

Call Jurie Swart at 083-375-8840, 021-907-8000 or Louis Van Der Merwe at 072-626-8409. jurie@vitamech.co.za www.vitamech.co.za http://www.macdon.com/products/fd75-flexdraper-headers-for-combine

Agritech Expo is a landmark event for Zambia’s agriculture, providing a business-to-business platform for agricultural professionals, from small-scale farmers to commercial enterprises, to engage and conduct business with some of the world’s leading suppliers to the agricultural industry.

Grow with Agritech Expo

n April, Chisamba, the agricultural growth point just north of Lusaka, will be abuzz with activities when the third Agritech Expo takes place. The GART Research Centre will host the 130 exhibitors, demonstration fields, zones for different agricultural sectors and more than 15 000 expected visitors. Agritech Expo is owned by the Zambia National Farmers Union and enjoys great support from government as well as the whole agri-sector. Liam Beckett, Event Director, says: “It is so important for the farming community to get together to discuss the current challenges and share success stories in the sector.” He says they are looking forward to

welcoming more than 15 000 farming professionals, from emerging, to smallholder, to commercial farmers and agri-experts in Chisamba. “It is a unique opportunity for them to share best practice, obtain training, test and try out new products and technologies and brainstorm about current challenges such as productivity and competitiveness as well as the effects of current adverse weather conditions.” Last year’s Agritech Expo drew more than 11 700 visitors, including the country’s President, Edgar Lungu, the Vice President, Inonge Wina, the Zambian and German Agri Ministers and many other dignitaries and agri-experts.

Continue to innovate Liam says: “Agritech Expo has been embraced by the Zambian farming community from the start and in our third edition from 14 to 16 April 2016, we shall continue to innovate and offer our partners and visitors more technology, demonstrations, free workshops and specialised zones and opportunities to do business. “We shall have 130 exhibitors, including some of the leading international suppliers to the agriculture industry, twelve live crop trials and eleven machinery demonstration fields. There will also be an extended Livestock Zone, an Irrigation Zone, a SME Business Zone, 4x4 Test Track, a Sprayers Arena and technical and practical workshops for emerging farmers as well as a VIP Business Lounge for commercial players.” As energy is a constant challenge in Zambia, there will also be a special focus on different options that are available to the agricultural community. An Energy Park has been created for the event.

“Our message at Agritech Expo this year is simple: Grow with us…”

Practical information on crop production from selecting the right cultivar to planting techniques and pest control are available to all at the Expo. 8

February 2016

ProAgri Zambia 04

Liam says: “We listen to what the sector needs and pride ourselves in servicing the needs of the entire agrivalue chain in Zambia and its neighbouring countries.” Industry support Zanaco (Zambia National Commercial Bank) has confirmed that it is returning as the exclusive Diamond Sponsor of the event. Other big names in the farming sector that will be at Agritech Expo are AFGRI, as Platinum Sponsor, and Action Auto, JCB, John Deere, SARO and Zamseed, who are all gold sponsors. What the people say about Agritech: Rob Munro, Director of Strategy at Musika, a Zambian non-profit company aiming towards the stimulation of private sector investment in the smallholder market. Musika has been a key partner since the start of Agritech Expo: “Before Agritech Expo, Zambia never had a means by which the whole agricultural community, from smallholder farmer to corporate agribusiness, was able to come together to see, understand and invest in new technology. In my opinion, Agritech Expo has been hugely influential in exposing the community to this technology and driving forwards the advancement of modern farming in Zambia.”

ProAgri Zambia 04

At the extended Irrigation Zone farmers can meet all the role players in the irrigation industry. Eike Hupe, Managing Director, BASF Zambia Limited, Area Manager Southern Africa BASF is a returning silver sponsor at Agritech Expo in Chisamba in Zambia in April: “Personally, my experience last year was very exciting as it was the first time I attended the Agritech Expo. Having moved to Zambia only recently, I was impressed by the vibrant atmosphere and the commitment of our Zambian farmers. Both the commercial and subsistence farmers with whom I interacted showed a keen interest in learning more about our range of products. We were able to exchange ideas on how to make farming more successful. In addition, I was also grateful to meet and interact with other stakeholders of the agricultural industry who were present at the event. “The event holds a prominent place on our annual BASF farming calendar. The Agritech Expo creates a unique platform where we can showcase the efficacy of our products, on various crops, to our farmers. For a while now, the BASF team has been in the planning phase for the Agritech Expo 2016, and we are looking forward to engaging with the farmers again at the event this year.” Michael Bentley, Dealer Principal, Action Auto in Zambia and returning gold sponsor for Agritech Expo in Chisamba in April: “We are pleased to be associated with this important platform for the Zambian agricultural community and look forward to an even better event than the previous two! Action Auto has been supporting the Agricultural industry long before the inception of the Agritech Expo, by offering special package deals for purchasing utility vehicles for farmers through Zambia National Farmers Union and in the past few years through Musika.” “We are thrilled to be able to showcase the Isuzu KB’s prowess on the 4x4 track at this year’s Agritech Expo.

Isuzu has broadened the appeal of the Iconic KB with the 2016 Enhanced Model. Some of the new additions to the range will be on display at this year’s Agritech Expo.” Pierre Lombard, CEO of NWK Agri-Services in Zambia, returning silver sponsor for Agritech Expo: “Our experience at the 2015 Agritech Expo was excellent. The wet weather created an interesting and friendly atmosphere which did not hinder attendance. There were many interested visitors and NWK made good connections as well as once again established its brand. “The agricultural sector in Zambia is a dynamic sector. It has its ups and downs, however it remains one of the main contributing sectors to Zambia’s GDP. What makes it exciting, is the interest people and companies show in the country and the opportunities to expand and improve on current activities. There are thousands of smallscale and emerging farmers contributing to the majority of the agricultural output. With help and guidance, they have the potential to grow and increase their contribution and therefore contribute to the development of the agricultural sector as a whole. In short, agricultural opportunities in Zambia are limitless.

Agritech Expo:

14 - 16 April 2016 Gart Research Centre, Chisamba, Zambia www.agritech-expo.com

February 2016

Prices subject to change without prior notification, and availability of stock 10

February 2016

ProAgri Zambia 04

Prices subject to change without prior notification, and availability of stock ProAgri Zambia 04

February 2016

s Part 3: Primary materials Martiens du Plessis, Soil Scientist, NWK Limited & Prof Cornie van Huyssteen, Lecturer: Soil Science, University of the Free State

Soil is the most fundamental resource for the farmer, without which food and natural fibre cannot be produced. The mineral fraction of soils originates mainly from geological material. This article aims at highlighting the influence of a few of the most important and common geological parent materials on the composition of soil.

rimary minerals form when rocks weather physically and the minerals are released chemically unchanged from the parent rock. The primary minerals are further subdivided into two groups, the silicate and non-silicate minerals. THE SILICATE MINERALS The silicate minerals comprise a basic silicon (Si4+) tetrahedron, which forms when the Si4+ cation is surrounded by four oxygen (O2-) anions to form SiO44-. Various combinations of this and other elements (primarily cations) which bind themselves to this, form the various silicate minerals.

Olivine When the negative charge on the SiO44- is balanced by iron (Fe2+) and magnesium (Mg2+) cations, olivine is formed (Figure 1a). Olivine ((Mg,Fe) SiO4) is rather unstable in soil and weathers rapidly to release Fe2+ and Mg2+ into the soil.

together in a single chain (Figure 1b). The basic unit of the single chain is SiO32- and the negative charge is balanced by calcium (Ca2+), Fe2+ and Mg2+. The pyroxenes, with augite (Ca(Mg,Fe)Si2O6) as the most common mineral in this group, are hard but, as a result of the long chain structure, they weather rapidly to release Ca2+, Fe2+ and Mg2+ cations into the soil. The amphibole group When two tetrahedral chains bind together to form a double Si tetrahedral chain, the amphibole group is formed (Figure 1c), with Si2O52- as the basic unit. Once again the negative charge of the chain is balanced by Ca2+, Mg2+, sodium (Na+) and Fe2+. Hornblende ((Ca,Na,K)2(Mg,Fe,Al)3(Si,Al)8O22 (OH)2) is the most common amphibole. Amphiboles occur widely, especially in young (more recently formed) soils.

The pyroxene group The pyroxene minerals form when the Si tetrahedra arrange themselves

The mica group A plate of Si tetrahedra forms one of the most basic building blocks of the mica group of minerals (Figure 1d). These minerals constitute a very

Quartz is the most common mineral of the silicate group and offers extreme resistance to weathering

The black mineral is hornblende and is part of the amphibole group

February 2016

important group in soil and will be discussed as fine micas in the next article in this series. The feldspar group The feldspar minerals (Figure 1e) are framework silicates, with SiO2 as basic unit, in which isomorphic (the same shape) substitution takes place, during which Al3+ replaces some of the Si4+. The negative charge is balanced by Ca2+, Na+ and potassium (K+). That gives rise to the Ca, Na and K feldspars, namely Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8) which is a potassium feldspar, Albite (NaAlSi3O8) which is a sodium feldspar and Anorthite (CaAl2Si2O8) which is a calcium feldspar. Plagioclase is a feldspar in which Ca2+ and Na+ can be found in various ratios. The feldspar minerals are relatively unstable, weather relatively easily and thus occur in small quantities in soil. During weathering, they provide the soil with Ca2+, Mg2+ and Na+ respectively. Quartz The final primary silicate mineral is quartz (Figure 1f). Quartz is also a framework silicate, with SiO2 as its basic unit, but it has little isomorphic substitution. Therefore, it has virtually no negative charge that has to be balanced by cations. Quartz is therefore very hard, weathers very slowly and releases virtually no basic cations during weathering. Because quartz is resistant to weathering, it occurs abundantly in the soil, where it makes up the largest portion (as much as 90%) of the sand fraction. In the soil, quartz is usually colourless or milky white, but is often covered with a layer of red or yellow iron oxide, giving

The pink mineral is orthoclase and is part of the feldspar group ProAgri Zambia 04

Figure 1. Various arrangements of the Si-O tetrahedra: (a) single tetrahedron; (b) single tetrahedral chain; (c) double tetrahedral chain; (d) tetrahedral plate; (e) feldspar and (f) quartz three-dimensional tetrahedral network.

Mineral group a

Olivine

Piroxene

Mineral

Description

Structure

Tetrahedral Augite

Single tetrahedral

Amphibole

Hornblende

Double tetrahedral chain

Mica

Muscovite

Tetrahedral plate

Biotite e

Feldspar

Orthoclase

Increasing stability

chain

Plagioclase

Quartz

the soil a red or yellow colouring. As quartz has no cations, it contains no plant nutritive matter and is therefore chemically non-reactive and therefore mainly plays a role in the physical properties of soil. From the above, it can be seen that there is a decrease in the negative charge, and therefore fewer complimentary cations, as the Si minerals become more complex (from top to bottom in Figure 1). The minerals therefore become increasingly more stable and release increasingly fewer cations into the soil during weathering. One can therefore say that the minerals increasingly become more acidic (with fewer basic cations). THE NON-SILICATE MINERALS The non-silicate minerals do not contain silicon in the mineral structure and can be sub-divided into the oxides and hydroxides, the carbonates, bicarbonate, sulphates, sulphides, and chlorides of Ca, Mg, and Na. The majority of non-silicates are soluble in water, while the silicate minerals are insoluble. The non-silicate minerals thus play an important role in the chemical properties of the soil. Oxides and hydroxides Hematite (Fe2O3), goethite (FeOOH), magnetite (Fe3O4), gibbsite (Al2O3) and boehmite (AlOOH) are the most important oxides and hydroxides. The oxides make up a small percentage of the soil. Iron oxide usually occurs as thin layers on quartz crystals and, in so doing, gives the soil its distinctive red or yellow colouring. The iron oxides are relatively insoluble in water, ProAgri Zambia 04

Three-dimensional tetrahedral network

but under long-term saturation in water, the iron can be reduced and becomes soluble. This makes iron, and therefore the soil colour, a useful tool to deduce water saturated conditions. Iron oxides can also accumulate in the soil under conditions of a fluctuating water table. Under these conditions, the iron oxides are localised into mottles which, under long-term accumulation, can harden to form an ironed layer â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the so-called ferricrete. The Al oxides are seen as the end product of weathering and are thus only present in very old soils and under conditions of intense weathering and leaching. Both Fe and Al oxides can precipitate with phosphate under low pH conditions, making it inaccessible to plant growth. Carbonates and sulphates The dominant minerals in this group are lime (CaCO3), gypsum CaSO4), magnesite (MgCO3) and MgSO4. These minerals are highly soluble and are usually leached out of the soil where the rainfall is more than 550 mm per annum. They are therefore mainly found in the soils of arid areas and in irrigated soils, where it is added to the soil via irrigation water. In arid areas, the lime and or gypsum can accumulate in the soil as a continuous soft or hard layer. Calcitic and dolomitic lime and gypsum are also used to increase the basic cation content of soil, thus increasing the pH of the soil. Phosphates Apatite ((Ca3(PO4)2)3ÂˇCa(Cl,F)2) is a phosphate mineral which comprises <1% of igneous rocks. However, apa-

tite weathers slowly and is the primary source of natural phosphate as plant nutrient in soil. SUMMARY To summarise, quartz is the most dominant silicate soil mineral, followed by the micas, feldspars, amphiboles, pyroxenes and olivine. The non-silicate minerals are usually soluble in soil and thus occur mainly in arid regions. The iron minerals are responsible for the red and yellow colour of soils and may also be used as an indicator of the water regime of soils. The Ca and Mg carbonates are mainly used to neutralise soil acidity. REFERENCES The following references were used extensively during the compilation of this series of articles: Van Huyssteen, CW. 2009. Soil ecology. Unpublished class notes for GKD214. University of the Free State, Bloemfontein. Brady, NC. and Weil RR. 2002. The Nature and Properties of Soils. 13th ed. Prentice Hall, New Jersey.

ProAgri Zambia acknowledges Grain SA for the use of this series which originally appeared in Afrikaans in SA Graan/Grain. For further information, please contact: Martiens du Plessis: martiens@nwk.co.za Cornie van Huyssteen: vanhuysteencw@ufs.ac.za February 2016

February 2016

ProAgri Zambia 04

Guidelines for livestock production

during the drought â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2016

In normal years, maize stover provide ample feed for cattle to see them through the winter, but with this seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s drought, farmers may have to make other plans.

vailable grazing material (natural pasture) is scarce on veld due to the drought. Prospects for the improvement of the poor grazing conditions in the remaining part of summer and winter are not favourable. In addition to current poor grazing conditions, low levels of water in the soil during spring and early summer will also have a negative effect on veld production and livestock. Crops are already affected negatively and therefore crop residues which are usually used as livestock feed will also not be readily available. The current situation is not good, but it can be managed. The following guidelines may help to prevent mortalities and reduce financial losses. • Ensure that cash flow is maintained judiciously. • Safeguard the core breeding livestock. After the drought, these females must generate income again. • Where still possible, provide strategic supplementary feeding on the veld. • Reduce the number of livestock that are dependent on feed sources on the farm by selling surplus animals or temporarily removing them from the veld to a kraal or planted pasture. • Restrict movement of livestock by confining them to small paddocks with shade trees or other protection from the elements. This provides better control over the quantities of feed provided daily to the animals. • Ensure that all animals have free access to clean drinking water. • Separate the stronger and weaker animals to reduce competition at the feed troughs. • Prevent thin livestock, especially cattle, from becoming too emaciated because of poor feeding conditions and lie down.

• Do not feed animals ad lib over a long period. Ration the feed according to the required production levels, for example survival or maintenance (maintain body mass) or lactation. • Do not waste feed by tossing it onto the ground – use appropriate feed troughs or conveyor belts. • Provide the rationed feeds every second or third day. Most animals will receive enough feed if you do so. It will also reduce competition at the feed troughs. • What can be fed? The basis for ruminants is roughage, be it on the veld or in the trough. Coarsely ground roughage is always better utilised (less waste) than in the long form. The energy content can be increased with an appropriate source (for example ground maize) and balanced with an appropriate crude protein source. The intake of minerals is then balanced according to the requirements of the animals. • Feed pellets are merely convenient (transport, handling, less waste) but coarsely ground roughage (properly balanced) can adequately meet the requirements of animals. • Restrict the daily intake of salt (NaCl) for sheep to 5 to 10 g and cattle to 50 to 60 g. Core herds/flocks • Herds/flocks must be grouped according to age and production status. Determine pregnancy in cattle as soon as possible after the current mating season. With sheep and goats, females can be scanned to determine if they carry twins/triplets to adjust their nutrition level. • In addition to pregnancy, the condition of teeth must also be assessed, especially for older cows and ewes. Pregnant cows must still be able to graze until the next calving and

•

specifically be able to wean the unborn calf. Females with worn teeth can still complete their production in a kraal, but this practice will carry a price tag. Create an inventory of all available veld and other feed sources. This information is needed to determine the number of animals that can be maintained well into and after the next summer. Reduce the number of animals dependent on the feed sources by marketing surplus animals or remove them temporarily from the veld. Note the reproduction records and weaning mass of the progeny of females. In each age class, the less productive animals must be culled. The principle of “cutting your losses” applies and all expenses must be weighed and discounted against expected income over the short to medium term. Caution not to sell younger breeding animals at a premium because they are in good condition and pregnant. Seek veterinary advice regarding any changes in the internal and external parasite control.

General The situations of farmers differ – seek professional assistance with strategic planning. When grazing material on the veld is scarce, animal licks will not help – often too much supplementary feeding is provided under such conditions on the veld. Decide in good time when to remove animals from the veld and feed them strategically in small paddocks. Plant material may still be available along roads and can be cut and baled. Thornless prickly pear leaves can also be used as a good feed source – whole cladodes for cattle and coarsely chopped cladodes for sheep and goats. During droughts we cannot be too choosy about the quality of feed sources which can mean the difference between life and death for livestock. If poor quality roughage such as veld grass hay or crop residues or cactus pear cladodes are available, animal nutritionists can use it as a basis to formulate diets to meet the minimum requirements of livestock. The ruminant The plant material selected during droughts on poor and dry veld contains little crude protein. The digestive system of ruminants and the symbiosis with microbes in the reticulo-rumen, offer opportunity to supplement crude protein with a non-protein nitrogen (NPN) source such as feed grade urea. The microbes in the reticulo-rumen break down cellulose (fibre) and produce new nutrients (volatile fatty acids and microbial protein). The complex four compartment “stomach” devecontinue p 18

ProAgri Zambia 04

February 2016

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February 2016

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SN 201817, 2009, John Deere 7930 160 kW, 3 200 hrs, R1 060 000 ProAgri Zambia 04

Prickly pear leaves may be an alternative feed source in dry seasons and farmers may well invest in planting thornless prickly pears in less productive soil.

lops gradually from the suckling phase (basically still monogastric) to that of a physiological mature ruminant. In younger calves and lambs/kids the reticulo-rumen is still in the process of developing. Therefore, it is better to use natural and higher quality protein sources instead of NPN; bypass protein may also be supplied strategically. Supplementary feeding (licks) It is important to address some critical questions regarding a supplementary feeding programme. • What is the aim with the supplementation? Must protein, energy, a combination of protein and energy, or minerals be supplemented? Should animals gain condition or must dry animals maintain mass (maintenance) or must lactation be supported? Animals in different production phases require specific types and quantities of strategic supplementary feeding. • How can the aim be achieved best? Have the less productive animals been removed to make all grazing available for the remaining livestock? This option is still not used to the best advantage and can make a huge contribution to improve efficacy and also lower the cost of supplementary feeding to the remaining animals. • Can it be ascertained whether the aim has been reached? Most wellintended programmes to improve animal performance fail in this regard, because the recommended level of supplementation is seldom achieved. Intake of supplementary feeding varies and is affected by feeding space (number of animals per trough), access to troughs (dominance between animals), level of supplementation and how often the troughs are being re-filled. • Unless the provision of supplementary feeding is managed, some animals will consume too much while others ingest too little to benefit at all. • Do not feed animals aimlessly on the veld. • A range of products are available. Seek advice from a professional ProAgri Zambia 04

animal nutritionist regarding the options and products to be considered. • Animals may experience a moderate loss (10 to 15%) in body mass, but then only over a relatively long period and under control of judicious feed management. Veld fires • Runaway veld fires or accidental fires can change the current precarious drought situation into a real crisis. An area where veld has burnt down, is practically in a disaster drought situation. • Make effective fire breaks, especially along roads, around dwellings and ash dumps. Roads are not good fire breaks, because the road surface is smooth and embers are easily blown over it by strong winds. Fires also spread easily through storm water drains. • Veld fires suppress grass production for about two seasons. Therefore, veld must rest at least one growing season after an accidental fire and at least one growing season ahead of a planned veld fire. In closing Production and reproduction of cattle is usually lower during droughts and animals get sick more easily - the extent will depend on the severity of the drought conditions. Lactating cows, late pregnant heifers and weaners are the most vulnerable, because of higher nutrient requirements. A thorough understanding of these factors are needed for a cost effective management strategy to mitigate the effects of droughts on animal production, reproduction and health. The following general aspects of management may be considered for beef cattle. • Determine pregnancy of cows and heifers as soon as possible (8 weeks for cows and 6 weeks for heifers) after the bulls have been removed. Non-pregnant animals are identified for culling. The stage of pregnancy (early, mid and late conception) relative to mating must be determined. • Together with condition, this infor-

•

mation can be used to identify cows that may benefit from early weaning and/or strategic supplementation as well as those to be sold. Informed decision-making creates the opportunity to lessen the detrimental effects of a drought. Sheep/goat production can benefit from early weaning of lambs/ kids – the ewes can be fed at lower maintenance levels and lambs/kids finished in a feedlot. Animal health starts at the mouth. Good nutrition is the basis of healthy animals and production. Changes in management may require adjustments in the programme for the prevention of diseases (inoculation). Remember, inoculation is a simple action (an injection), while creating immunity is a more complex process in animals that requires protein (amino acids in the diet) to produce the antibodies. During droughts and dry seasons, the protein content of the veld is generally low. Timely inoculation may be considered to ensure the development of better immunity. Drastic changes in management such as restricting animals in kraals, increases stress levels and susceptibility for diseases. The incidence of opportunistic diseases may increase and require inoculation which is usually required. Specific local conditions and circumstances will dictate any changes in inoculation as well as external and internal parasite control programmes. Discuss any possible changes in the animal health and disease control programme with your veterinarian. The vitamin status must be evaluated and supplemented.

Article compiled by Prof HO de Waal Pr. Sci. Nat., Anim. Sci., Department of Animal, Wildlife and Grassland Sciences, University of the Free State, e-mail: deWaalHO@ufs.ac.za. Enquiries: Mr Gerhard Schutte, RPO, +2712-349-1102 or gerhard@rpo.co.za. February 2016

Farm management prior and on the day of chick delivery

Be prepared. This Boy Scout motto also Hannes Bruwer, Graan SA se holds true for prospective and existing Graanboer van die jaar, se chicken farmers. The better youstroper are glip deur sy koringlande in Desember 2015. prepared prior to the delivery of every new batch of chicks, the better your chances of converting your inputs to profits. One the day before delivery: • Set the heating system to between 31 and 33ºC for cage brooding and between 32 and 35ºC for floor brooding. • Check the water system and adjust drinkers to the height of the chicks. • Ensure that all drinkers are disinfected and flushed before arrival of chicks.

aluable advice is offered to chicken farmers by Tiger Animal Feeds. This company has been supporting farmers in Zambia for the past twenty years with superb products and knowhow to reap resounding success from their efforts. Proper preparations can make a meaningful difference for chicken farmers.

On the day of delivery: • Have the water lines full and in operation. • Trigger the water cups or nipples to encourage drinking. If nipple drinkers are used, the water pressure should be reduced so that the birds

can see the drop of water hanging from the drinker. • Operate the feeders at highest feed level. In the event of cage brooding, feed should be placed on paper. • Keep lights at highest intensity, 22 hours per day for the first irst two days, to encourage feeding. Always buy feed from a reputable firm, such as Tiger Feeds. For more information please contact Rowena Blanco, Nutritionist, Tiger Animal Feeds at +260-96-7991-847 or rowena@tigerfeeds.com.zm. Also visit www.Tigerfeeds.com for more information.

What to do prior to chick delivery: • Disinfect all the cages, equipment and poultry houses. • Check all equipment to see if it is working properly and adjusted to the correct height. • Remove old feed from the bins and hoppers. • Clean and disinfect feed and water hoppers and allow proper drying before new feed is delivered. • Position rat poison where it cannot be reached by the chicks. ProAgri Zambia 04

February 2016

ay was produced as early as 550 years BC. Literature studies showed that the first hay in the Cape was cut in 1674, and it is believed that this was the first hay in Southern Africa. The species that was used at that stage is not clear, but recently we know that grasses like Eragrostis curvula (weeping love grass), teff, Panicum maximum (Guinea grass/ white buffalo grass), Chloris gayana (Rhodes grass) and lucerne are popular hay crops. In recent times, it is clear that Rhodes grass and lucerne are the most popular ones in Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi and Kenya. Lucerne mostly under irrigation and Rhodes grass on dry land or rain fed. The emphasis of this article will be on dry land hay production, thus on grass species like Rhodes grass. The origin and first usage of Rhodes grass is not very well documented. It is clear that Cecil John Rhodes (politician in South Africa), became interested in this grass as early as in the1860’s, from there the common name, Rhodes grass. It is further believed that he was also involved in the distribution of this grass to the rest of Southern Africa. Rhodes grass is a tender, leafy, perennial grass that grows as high as 1,0 to 1,6 m. It is very easy to establish, because it forms runners (stolons) above ground, as well as underground rhizomes. It is, therefore, good for erosion control but also a good hay and grazing crop. Katambora Rhodes grass, originally from the banks of the Zambezi River in the Victoria Falls area, is still a popular and good hay and grazing crop. However, grass breeding is an ongoing process in agriculture, and in this process a new Rhodes grass cultivar with the name, “Finecut”, appeared on the horizon. Finecut was selected from the Katambora cultivar and was developed in Australia, specifically for hay production. It is a diploid cultivar bred for its fine stems and high leaf to stem ratio. It is not only a hay crop, it is also a good grazing grass. Selected Seeds (Australia and South Africa) distributes Finecut and it is protected under the Plant Breeders Rights Act.

Hay-making is an old process in agriculture, but it is good to be reminded of the characteristics of good hay and how to make sure that your animals get the best advantage. Prof Chris Dannhauser, Pasture Consultant of Selected Seeds, takes us through the history and gives some valuable advice on haymaking.

by prof Chris Dannhauser

Make good quality A drum mower with conditioner is especially useful to lucerne farmers. Some of the best hay produced in Zambia is a mixture between Rhodes grass and Stylo (Stylosanthus spp). The advantage is a palatable grass with a protein rich legume and the mixture results in higher animal production.

Lucerne Good quality Medium quality Poor quality Grass Good quality Medium quality Poor quality Table 1: Hay quality 24

February 2016

Crude Protein (CP) (%)

How to produce good quality hay The following factors influence hay quality:

Characteristics of good quality hay Although hay-making is an old process in agriculture, it sometimes seems that not everybody knows the characteristics of good hay. The following are external characteristics of good hay: • The colour of conserved hay should be green and not a “straw colour”. • Hay should be leafy with minimum stems. • It should have a pleasant aroma, not a sour, damp or pungent smell. • No stones, wires, plastic ropes, soil or foreign plant material should be present in hay.

The nutritional value of good quality hay is shown in Table 1. Hay type/ Quality

tites will be depressed and the pasture intake by the animal will decrease.

Fibre (%)

Above 23% 20 – 23% 20% and lower

25% and lower 25 – 30% Above 30%

Above 18% 11 – 18% 10% and lower

30% and lower 30 – 35% Above 35%

It is important to remember that if CP content of the pasture or hay is above 13%, the animals can maintain their weight and above 18% they will gain weight. However, if the CP content falls below 6 to 8%, their appe-

A tedder in action. ProAgri Zambia 04

situation, some elements will be recycled by dung and urine, but not when hay is cut and removed. Therefore, annual fertilisation according to soil analyses is important.

The colour of conserved hay should be green and not a "straw colour" - a sign that the grass was cut to late.

Cutting stage The growth/cutting stage directly influences the nutritional value of hay. In many cases the emphasis is on maximum production (t/ha), when the hay is cut at a tall, matured and dry stage. If it is done at this late stage, the quality will be low because of more stems and less leaf material. Table 2 shows the influence of maturity during mowing on the quality of Smutsfinger grass (Digitaria eriantha) and weeping love grass (Eragrostis curvula). The results in Table 2 show that when cut during early flowering, the crude protein and digestibility of hay are the highest. This is when there are less stems and those present are less fibrous.

hay Fertilisation By cutting hay two to four times per season, feeding elements like nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, as well as other macro and micro elements, will be removed. In a grazing

ProAgri Zambia 04

Grass species Smutsfinger grass (Digitaria) Weeping love grass (Eragrostis)

Cutting stage Early flower Full flower Early flower Full flower

Hay-making implements Mowers Mowers with bruisers or crimpers (conditioners) are ideal to bruise the plant material and accelerate the drying process. This is the ideal mower to use when hay is mowed at a younger stage for higher quality. Remember, mowing at a younger stage improves quality and will result in more cuts per season, thus not lower production per season. Rake The traditional round wheel rake is one of the most popular implements to place the hay in windrows. The disadvantage is that it forms rolled windrows and it cannot spread the material to be aerated. Tedder The tedder is not well known and it is expensive, but by using it, the drying process is much shorter to prevent sun and rain damage, and that means Crude protein (%) Digestibility (%) 10,1 8,3 11,4 8,9

59,4 53,9 54,9 50,1

Table 2: The influence of maturity on quality Curing or drying The ideal is to cut the material early in the morning, to let it dry in the sun during the day, and to bale it late in the afternoon of the same day. In many cases it is difficult to do so, particularly in countries such as Zambia and Kenya, because of frequent rains during the season when grasses are in the cutting stage. The moisture content of grass at a young stage can be as high as 70 to 80%, and to bale it successfully the moisture should be reduced to 10 to 20%. This can be done with grass species with fine stems and thin leafs and by using the correct implements. Sunshine and rain are two of the most important climatic elements in agriculture, but if we do not manage our hay-making process correctly, they can both decrease hay quality. Drying hay for too long in the sun (2 to 4 days) is harmful, but rain on the material during the drying process may also cause damage. Some important factors to consider: • Consult the existing weather fore cast services • Do not cut more material than can be baled on one day • Newer and well equipped machinery can be useful • Use cultivars with fine stems and thin leaves (as mentioned earlier)

higher quality hay. Most modern mowers place the material in a windrow and that can be followed up by the tedder that spreads it open to aerate it. The tedder action can be repeated two to three times a day, to speed up the drying process for baling on the same day. Baler The type of baler is the farmer’s own choice, but the traditional small square baler is still popular because its bales are so easy to handle or stack. Round balers are becoming increasingly popular as they too have advantages. They are quicker to bale more material per day. Some of these balers can be adjusted to compact the hay differently (loose or compacted), thus slightly wet material can be baled loosely and more aerated, to prevent damage. The cover material of most of these balers are dense and prevent water penetration. Round bales can also be wrapped to make grass silage.

For more information, contact Prof Chris Dannhauser, Pasture Consultant & Selected Seed, at chriswei@vodamail.co.za. or (+27) 082-873-4736. February 2016

Breeding Impuls Zambia specialises in reproductive services and products for dairy and beef cattle. We specialise in AI, synchronisation, pregnancy diagnosis by sonograph, semen and AI equipment sales. Based on our international experiences we created a Breeding Manual to help farmers to choose the right breed to achieve their goals. Semen is imported from different countries over the world, to provide the best genetics at a reasonable price. Our services: • Artificial insemination • Pregnancy diagnosis (palpitation, sonograph) • Synchronisation Our products: • Liquid nitrogen • Bull semen: - Dairy semen: Fleckvieh, Holstein-Friesian, Jersey - Beef semen: Fleckvieh, Simmentaler, Aberdeen Angus (red, black), Brahman, Boran, Brangus, Bonsmara, Tuli • Synchronisation hormones (Syntex) • AI equipment: Liquid nitrogen flasks, AI kits, AI guns universal, minicutters, tweezers, sheaths, thaw units, thaw monitors, gloves, lubricants, disinfectants

Liquid nitrogen for sale

Our contact details: www.breedingimpulszambia.com breedingimpulszambia@gmail.com Cell: +26 096 849 3432

Ticks carry many diseases, but one of the most serious and deadly illnesses is buffalo or corridor disease. In view of recent cases in Zambia, dr Dave Midgley, Veterinary Consultant, agreed to refresh our memories on this relatively scarce disease.

Be on the lookout for buffalo disease Dr Dave Midgley, Veterinary Consultant, dave.midgley@vodamail.co.za

he name, buffalo disease, originates from the fact that it is always associated with buffalo. The cases in South Africa were found in the “corridor” between the Huluhluwe and Umfolozi game reserves in KwaZulu-Natal, thence the name, corridor disease. The causative protozoa is Theileria parva, the same organism causing East Coast Fever, and it is transmitted by three important ticks, Rhipicephalus appendiculatus (brown ear tick), R. zambeziences (Lowveld brown ear tick) and R.duttoni, the latter seemingly being the most important vector in Angola. The disease was first recognised in Zimbabwe in 1934. Corridor disease causes severe illness – it is an acute, usually fatal, disease and is usually self-limiting as soon as the cattle population is removed from the grazing frequented by buffalo. The disease does not normally spread between cattle. The disease usually occurs on game farms or next to game parks and in Eastern Africa where cattle-keeping pastoralist communities overlap with the widespread buffalo populations.

Symptoms and signs of the disease: Corridor disease resembles East Coast fever, but because death occurs so fast, emaciation, diarrhoea and enlargement of the lymph nodes are normally not seen. The common symptoms are: • Fever (shown by depression, listlessness, rough hair coat, standing alone and away from the rest of the herd) • Loss of appetite • Drop in milk production • Watery discharge from the eyes • Pale mucous membranes of the eye and gums • Enlargement of the glands below the ears and the ones in front of the shoulder and the knee is sometimes seen • Difficult breathing, especially prior to death • Suppressed cough • Weakness • Difficult walking • May show nervous signs like walking in circles and even paralysis

The brown ear tick may transmit buffalo disease. ProAgri Zambia 04

A buffalo with tick birds. How do you know that your cattle have this disease? • They exhibit the clinical symptoms described above • High mortality rate with more than 80% of affected cattle dying within 3 to 4 days • History of contact with buffaloes • Laboratory confirmation by a veterinarian (parasites are seen under a microscope in the lymph nodes and spleen) Post mortem signs: • Froth in the airways • Fluid in the lungs (pulmonary oedema) • Sometimes the lymph nodes (glands) can be enlarged Treatment and prevention: • Consult a veterinarian. • Drugs with the active ingredient, bupavaquone, are effective against corridor disease if treatment occurs early enough in the course of the disease. Keeping the animals in the shade and confined, as well as other supportive treatment like enough food and water being available, are also necessary. • Remove the healthy cattle from the affected pasture and try to prevent contact with buffalo, especially during the summer months when the tick vectors are more prevalent. For more information on this deadly disease or to arrange a consultation with Dr Dave Midgley for a comprehensive animal health programme specifically developed for your farm, send an e-mail to dave.midgley@vodamail.co.za. February 2016

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• Southern Africa’s only manufacturer and supplier of equally spaced horizontal line wire ‘hinge-joint’ and ‘ring-lock’ pre-fabricated field and game fencing, specifically designed for African conditions. • We have been in the fencing business since 1962. • More than 60 different products designed for different animals and terrain needs. • Ranges of close, square, kombi, flexi, ring-lock and money saver mesh. • Easy to erect with step-by-step instructions. • Now another African first: Jackal proof, hinge-joint multi-fence ideal for exotic antelope. • The Bonnox Porta-pen is back by popular demand! Perfect for users who have to contain livestock in different areas for short periods of time. Tel: +27-12-666-8717 E-mail: Drip irrigation may be costly to set up, butsales@bonnox.co.za there is more control over water usage.

Visit www.bonnox.co.za and choose your fencing

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February 2016

Senter 360 water propelled pivot reaches for the sky:

Thwart cable thieves and lower your power account by Du Preez de Villiers Dave Bell is very satisfied with the Senter 360 pivots which enable him to harvest 40 tonnes more sugar cane per hectare than before.

Sugar cane farmers in Zambia can now also rely on the sturdy craftmanship of the African built Senter 360 central pivot with its high rise, especially for high-growing crops.

armers are going to embrace the revolutionary sky-scraping water propelled pivot with which Senter 360 are celebrating their coming of age. The water propelled pivot has been available for quite some time, but Senter 360’s innovative engineers found a way to challenge the laws of

gravity in order to design a special pivot for farmers with high-growing crops. Although Senter 360 attained their coming of age, their youthful ability to innovate remains unblemished. This South African company is confidently entering into markets further north in

Quintin van Onselen is Dave Bell’s happy farm manager who experience no difficulties when irrigating the sugar cane. The control box is neatly built into the sturdy stronghold and is easy to understand and to operate. 32

February 2016

Africa to offer even more farmers of the continent viable and reliable irrigation solutions. Senter 360’s ability to fulfil every need a farmer might have, was proved last year with the introduction of their first high profile, single tower, water propelled pivot for sugar cane. This pivot was sold to Dave Bell, a sugar cane farmer from Empangeni in KwaZulu-Natal. Gone are the days when a farmer had to lay very expensive power lines to his remote pivot circles – this pivot is propelled by the pump’s water and pressure to run smoothly high over the highest crops. Last year, Dave acquired a Senter 360 pivot with seven towers for his dad, Sandy, who irrigates 52 hectares of sugar cane. Sandy’s farm is a level valley next to the Umhlatuzi river, which is an irrigation paradise, and the pivot runs like a dream. Dave’s own farm, however, is quite a different kettle of fish. He had to call in a consultant to recommend an appropriate pivot for his undulating fields. The consultant found that the Senter 360 would definitely hold its own on the inclines of 12 to 15%. Dave promptly acquired Senter 360 pivots for the sugar cane fields of 22 and 18 ha on his farm. He also bought a high profile, single tower, water propelled pivot for a sugar cane field of 4 ha. “I am very relieved now that my pivots can easily replace the moisture loss from our soil. In severe droughts, I can lose up to 200 mm of moisture per month,” says Dave. “I apply ProAgri Zambia 04

between 20 and 22 mm of water on my sugar cane with every revolution every three and a half days.” With this recipe, Dave increased his sugar cane yield by 40 tonnes this year! Like any other good farmer, Dave tests the performance of his pivots

with a rain gauge, however, this effort is quite unnecessary as the Senter 360 applies exactly as much water as promised. Recently, Dave experienced an extreme wind storm of 120 kmh, but no damage was caused to his pivots. Even the high profile pivot’s frame-

Senter 360’s new high profile water propelled pivots were built to elude expensive electricity while clearing even the highest crops to ensure proper irrigation.

ProAgri Zambia 04

work was solid enough to withstand all the inclines and winds. The Senter 360’s aluminium electrical cables are not as popular with cable thieves as copper conductors. To further protect his pivots, Dave erected a stronghold with a concrete roof at the centre point of every pivot to protect the control panel against theft. He also buried the electric supply cable very deep. Across the river from which Dave obtains his water for irrigation, he has 50 hectares on which he uses draglines. Five full-time labourers are needed for this task. On the other hand, the control of all his pivots need only a short while of his manager’s time. “I am also very impressed with the electricity savings effected by my pivots,” says Dave. “For the draglines, I need to maintain 3,5 bars of pressure, while the pivots work perfectly with only 2,5 bars.” A Senter 360’s tyres are not easily punctured and do not get stuck, because special pivot tyres are used. These tyres enable Dave to irrigate whenever necessary without unnecessary hassles. For more information, call Senter 360 at +2718-469-1331 or e-mail them at info@senter360.co.za

February 2016

Good news for irrigation farmers is that there has recently been a new addition to the range of innovative selfcleaning irrigation filters from Amiad Filtration Systems in Southern Africa. Amiad is widely viewed as the market leader in irrigation equipment. Locally Agriplas (Pty) Ltd distributes the products.

New technology ensures smooth irrigation T

he Sigma filters follow on the very popular Filtomat series that are widely used in irrigation areas in Southern Africa. As the Filtomat, the Sigma filter is using the principle of a fixed division between incoming “dirty” and outgoing “clean” water. In the case of the Sigma, the division is a screen made from stainless steel. The fixed screen differs from other filter systems making use of movable technology such as sand and rings. The Sigma filter is available in inlet/ outlet sizes of 100, 150 and 200 mm, with flow rates from 80m³/hour to as high as 220m³/hour and a maximum working pressure of 10 bar. The degree of filtration varies from 80 to 300 micron, which means that it is suitable for all irrigation systems such as drip and micro to larger systems such as central pivots.

ProAgri Zambia 04

The Sigma is a fully automatic hydraulic filter needing no external source of power. How it works Raw water enters from the filter inlet and passes through the multi-screens. Clean water flows through the filter outlet. The gradual dirt build-up on the inner screen surface causes a filter cake to develop, with a corresponding increase in the pressure differential across the multi-screens. A hydraulic pressure differential switch senses the pressure differential and when it reaches a pre-set value, the self-cleaning process begins. During the self-cleaning cycle, the rinse control operates the exhaust valve by means of a hydraulic command, and when the cycle is complete, it automatically closes the exhaust valve and waits for the next cycle. The water flow to the irrigation sy-

stem continues throughout the process and irrigation will not be interrupted. Sigma offers a compact design for its high flow rate. Highlights of the Sigma water filter - Large filtration area - High flow rates per area - Corrosion- and fertiliser-resistant (pH > 5) polymeric housing - Suction-scanning screen technology - Automated and efficient self-cleaning - Low water and energy consumption - Innovative compact design and small footprint - Easy installation and maintenance - Diverse open-field irrigation, landscaping, greenhouse and aquaculture applications To obtain your Sigma solution contact your closest irrigation agency or visit www.agriplas.co.za.

February 2016

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February 2016

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Advertise your product, company or service in ProAgri Zambia. We distribute 10 000 copies to farmers and the agricultural community every month. Contact our Zambian oďŹ&#x192;ce: Quintus Grobler: +26 (0)96-216-9801 quintus@vanetechnology.com Samantha Luyt: +26 (0)96-446-7723 samluyt@proagri.co.za Or our representatives in SA: Xander Pieterse: +27 79-524-0934 xander@proagri.co.za Stefan van Wyk: +27 82-381-7563 stefan@agritrader.co.za 40

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