Nov-Dec 2019 edition/ Gulf Agriculture

NOVEMBER

ISSN 1751-8407

DECEMBER

2019 TM

YOUR GATEWAY TO THE MIDDLE EAST AGRIBUSINESS

SPACE 2019: A GREAT SUCCESS

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GROWSTREAM PROVIDES HIGHER YIELDS

30

WANGARA PLANTER BAGS

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MAKE YOUR MARK WITH TATTOO VINCA!

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THE IMPORTANCE OF CLIMATE CONTROL

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CONTENTS

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26

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Cover photo courtesy: Dr Jacek Rabcewicz, Department of Agroengineering, InHort, Poland

NEWS UPDATE GROWTECH FAIR: PLATFORM FOR THE LATEST AGRICULTURAL TECHNOLOGY IRRIGATION AND GROUNDWATER INDUSTRIES TO GATHER UNDER ONE ROOF THE WORLD'S LEADING HORTICULTURAL TRADE FAIR AT THE COMPLETELY MODERNIZED MESSE ESSEN SAUDI AGRICULTURE EXHIBITION 2019 ATTRACTED 17,000 VISITORS FORUM ON THE FUTURE OF HEALTHY FOOD A PROJECT THAT COMBINES NATURE AND ENTERTAINMENT LEADERS IN AGRICULTURE RETAIL AND LANDSCAPING MEETING INSTANT HEDGING DEMAND DÉSIALIS: THE LARGEST EUROPEAN OPERATOR OF DEHYDRATED PRODUCTS FOR ANIMAL NUTRITION HISTORY AND FUTURE OF CRACK DETECTION FROM "CANDLING" TO SHELL INSPECTOR LARSON ACRES: MILK MAKES FAMILY STRONGER POLAND'S AGRICULTURAL SECTOR IS VITAL FOR EUROPEAN AND GLOBAL MARKET TASTE-ORIENTED POLAGRA ATTRACTS OVER FIFTY THOUSAND VISITORS INHORT: PROMOTING EXCELLENCE IN POLISH HORTICULTURE

PAGE 04 PAGE 16 PAGE 18

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PAGE 20 PAGE 22 PAGE 26 PAGE 28 PAGE 29 PAGE 34

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PAGE 37 PAGE 38 PAGE 40 PAGE 42 PAGE 45 PAGE 46

38 Editor Megha Mary Matt | Associate Editor Jessie Jorge Graphic Designer Elizabeth John | Production Manager Abdul Shareef Contributors Neville J. Chandler, Douglas Bott, Shakeeb Kolakadan, Dr. Hansel Geo Thomas Registered Office: Matt Media International Ltd. 12 Gateway Mews, London N11 2UT, UK E-mail: gulfag@emirates.net.ae Web site: www.gulfagriculture.com

US Office: Matt Media (USA), LLC, 1713 E. Morgan Court, Gilbert Arizona 85295 Middle East Office: Al Saad Advertising & Publishing L.L.C., P O Box 25694, Sharjah, UAE Gulf Agriculture is a publication from Matt Media International and read by agri professionals, farm managers & owners, landscape consultants, contractors, agri-equipment suppliers, horticultural engineers, greenhouse managers, agronomists, veterinary surgeons, ministries, poultry & dairy breeders, importers, distributors, manufacturers and whole salers of food and agri inputs.

All rights reserved. The opinions and views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publishers. Readers are requested to seek specialist advice before acting on information contained in this publication, which is provided for general use and may not be appropriate for the reader’s particular circumstance. The publishers regret that they cannot accept liability for any error or omissions contained in this publication.

Printed and published by Matt Media© Intl. Ltd.(U.K.) 2019

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NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2019

NEWS UPDATE

Mazoon Dairy Company commences production and sale of fresh milk across Oman The flagship dairy company of the Sultanate of Oman, Mazoon Dairy, has announced the launch of fresh milk and dairy products in the Omani market.

This marks the nationwide launch of Mazoon's first dairy product on shelves across supermarkets and shops in the Sultanate this October, followed by its full range of products including laban, cheese, icecream, and juices in the coming period.

His Excellency (HE) Dr. Hamed bin Said Al-Oufi, Oman's Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, Mazoon Dairy Board Members and staff gathered to mark the milestone occasion at the company's head office in Rusayl. They were joined by a group of schoolchildren who participated in the occasion with the Minister and the Board Members.

Mazoon has launched its first product in record time, barely 24 months after the stone laying ceremony in October 2017. The farm has the capacity to house 25,000 cows, while the factory has the most advanced technology to produce 1million litres of dairy products per day.

This is in line with Oman's strategy to achieve selfsufficiency in the food sector and produce farm fresh dairy that this are available to customers a few hours after production.

Mazoon Dairy is one of the most technologically advanced dairy companies in the region, with state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, from cow milking and product packaging to a logistic network to ensure 4

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that fresh products reach every Omani village. It also adopts environmentally-friendly practices cross its business functions.

HE Dr Rashid bin Salim al Masroori, Chairman, Mazoon Dairy Company, said: “This is a historic moment in the food security sector, and it will undoubtedly enhance the Sultanate's reputation in this vital industry. We are committed to the highest standards and best practices across all functions of the company, including the adoption of systematic plans to train and employ Omani youth in the food processing sector.

We are optimistic about the national momentum of the project, which demonstrates the loyalty of the Omani community to Omani products”.

Opportunities for a Sustainable Agriculture Loss of soil and biodiversity, pollution of water resources and challenges from climate change cast doubt on the agricultural practices currently in use. The Living Farms research project presents biodynamic places that are in search of alternatives, starting with the Garden Park at the Goetheanum.

Farming is in a critical situation. The United Nations estimate that fertile soil is only guaranteed for another 60 years.

Meanwhile, people in the fields, in shops and in the kitchen are looking for solutions.

Biodynamic agriculture is one approach which has a wealth of experience from decades of practice on the ground.

“We want to empower people to act through knowledge”, says Lin Bautze, leader of the Living Farms research project in the Section

for Agriculture at the Goetheanum. “The organic scene is very committed to the future of the earth and its living organisms.” Building up soil fertility, closed-loop animal husbandry within the farm organism, methods for plant breeding and vegetable growing, networking in the value-added chain, nutrition workshops connected to farms and other ideas have already been put into practice in biodynamic agriculture. But biodynamics is also struggling in the face of climate change and extreme fluctuations in the weather. By compiling examples from practice from different climatic zones, the Section for Agriculture hopes to provide suggestions for a sustainable agriculture. “If we can demonstrate ways that can be successfully applied and are quick to learn, then we have achieved our goal”, says Lin Bautze.

A team from the Section for Agriculture will be tapping into the experiences of up to 20 biodynamic farms for the Living Farms project, which runs until February 2022. The team will carry out semistructured, in-depth interviews on motivation, strategy and options for action. Personal information will be addressed along with farm size and profitability. The results will be presented in short videos and a book publication. The first farm visited and presented in a short video is the Goetheanum Garden Park.

Agrilevante ended with great success The sixth edition of Agrilevante, the international exhibition of agricultural machinery and technology, NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2019

NEWS UPDATE

which marks a new record for visitors, ended with great success. In the four days of the event - which opened on 10th October and ended on 13th October - there were a total of 82.200 visitors, with a 13,3% increase compared to the 2017 edition, which in turn represented the best historical result for the event in Bari.

Record numbers, therefore, with regards to the audience of farmers, economic and technical operators of agricultural machinery, but also with regard to foreign operators (3.600 on the total number of visitors, with an increase of 12,6% compared to the last edition). The official foreign delegations (160 operators in total from 40 countries) are also growing, and above all the number of exhibitors, which has reached 350, exceeding the number (328) of the previous edition.

Also on the exhibition front, a remarkable success was achieved by the new area dedicated to gardening and garden care, and the new section dedicated to animal husbandry, with the exhibition of 500 heads of cattle, horses, sheep and goats of native prized breeds. This expansion of the exhibition is probably due to the increase in public, formed not only by professional operators but also by enthusiasts of the green and rural world.

The programme of meetings is getting larger, with 55 events held in this edition, including conferences, conventions and workshops on topics related to agronomic technique, the environment, safety at work, training, and design and maintenance of green areas.

Many topics of interest also 6

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for visitors, who interacted with Agrilevante through social networks, organized by the staff of www.imageline.it which since 2012 has been supporting FederUnacoma for digital communication during trade show events. Over 14,000 interactions recorded by the fan page during the four days in Bari; the stories and posts on Instagram were highly appreciated, in particular the bear ones relating to the B2B meetings organized by Federunacoma together with ICE.

Experts From Abu Dhabi Municipality and Neom to headline Middle East Smart Landscape Summit 2020 Expotrade Middle East, organizers of the Middle East Smart Landscape Summit announced the dates of the eighth edition of the event, to be held on 7-8 April 2020 at Sofitel Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa. Husain Al Saeedi, Director Of Technical Services Operations Dept, Abu Dhabi City Municipality, JosepRamon Ferrer Escoda, Executive Director, Community and Livability, NEOM, Robert Shakespeare, Group Design Director, Landscape Architecture, Cracknell, Morne Fourie, Executive Director Design & Masterplanning, PIF Holding Entity, KSA and Matthew Utley, Principal, Grimshaw Architects, will headline the two-day summit.

Apart from the developments in the region's landscape sector, the event program agenda will also emphasize on themes such as stadiums, golf courses, outdoor lighting, and sports facilities. Over 15 topics highlighting the implementation

of sustainable strategies at Expo 2020, UAE's 'Green Growth Strategy', the inclusion of green roofs & walls, use of artificial turf for high-quality sporting facilities, and the effective use of waste management for landscape restoration, amongst others, will feature in the twoday conference program.

More than 45 international and regional senior industry experts will participate as speakers and panelists, to share insights on trends and developments, challenges that communities face and opportunities present in urban planning and landscape architecture through case studies, panel discussions and standalone presentations.

Farm Tires Market Weighed Down by Weakness in Global Commodity Prices, Finds a New Study The broader sluggishness in the farm equipment market continues to influence farm tire sales globally, however, opportunities exist as global sales are likely to surpass 42 million in 2018. Demand is led by tractors and harvesters, with trailers and sprayers following suit. Sales continue to remain concentrated in the independent aftermarket channel, with OEM and OES complementing demand.

The latest study projects the farm tires market to grow at 6% CAGR through 2028. The report finds that sluggishness in the US farm sector remains a key restraining factor for the growth of farm tires market.

Weak commodity prices have cut farm earnings, which has led to a decline in equipment spending. The sluggishness continues to impact sales of both new and replacement tires.

NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2019

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NEWS UPDATE

The report finds that manufacturer focus has shifted to digitalization and adoption of innovative technology. Product differentiation has emerged as a key strategy for market players to increase sales. The prevailing low commodity prices are influencing farm owners to boost operational efficiency, while reducing overheads.

These developments have compelled farm tire manufacturers to launch technologically superior and cost-efficient products in the market. In view of the evolving end-user demand, launch of innovative agriculture tires that are equipped with sensors is likely to gain ground during the assessment period.

The prevailing scenario in the market has also induced a 'shop for value' trend among end-users. The weakness in global commodity prices has meant that farm owners are prioritizing price over quality.

The change in buying behavior has made farm tire manufacturers to make changes to production. Farm tire manufacturers are now including cost-effective offerings in their portfolio.

FindMy Launches Next Generation Satellite IoT Livestock Tracker Powered

by Globalstar Globalstar Europe Satellite Services Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of Globalstar, Inc. (NYSE American: GSAT) recently announced that FindMy, the IoT animal tracking pioneer, has launched its next-generation tracker. The FindMy e-Bell Model 2 collar is more robust, smaller and lighter, and now features Bluetooth for easy set-up and a longer-life replaceable battery 8

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for lower maintenance.

Today, as FindMy marks its 10-year partnership with Globalstar, and with over 45,000 collars deployed in the field, FindMy collars have transmitted 20 million IoT tracking messages by satellite, enabled by Globalstar's powerful, low-cost STX3 chipset and its worldwide fleet of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites. This data allows farmers to reliably monitor and protect their valuable herds wherever they roam, including regions beyond the reach of mobile phone networks.

The appeal of FindMy is such that it has even attracted customers whose farms are in locations with good mobile coverage - this is due to the price competitiveness of FindMy's satellite-enabled solution, and the highly functional and user-friendly app and user interface which FindMy provides.

FindMy has spent the last two years designing and engineering the new animal collar, which will be available from Spring 2020. Additional new features include a custom antenna that adds extra assurance of successful message transmission, and a new app that makes it easy for farmers to configure and customise the collar's transmission settings.

The e-Bell Mark 2 is easily self-configurable for farmers and the new industrial-grade FindMy devices are engineered to meet military-level satcoms standards for robustness in all weather conditions.

Enhanced software can now deliver a complete snapshot update of the herd/flock location at particular times of day specified by the farmer dependent on when they head

out to the hills to check on the animals. The system also includes an improved accelerometer sensitive enough to detect whether an animal is in distress, such as if it is frightened or being chased.

Massey Ferguson lends support to South Africa's emerging farmers For three consecutive years emerging farmers throughout South Africa have gathered as members of the African Farmers' Association of South Africa (AFASA) in the aspiration to become some of the country's most competent and successful commercial farmers. This year's AFASA Conference on Agri-business Transformation took place in Bloemfontein, Free State from 6 - 8 October 2019 under the theme, Farmers growing South Africa: Creating jobs and trade opportunities.

Massey Ferguson, a global tractor brand of AGCO, with more than 160 years of innovation and experience, joined forces with local distributor BHBW to participate as a platinum sponsor at this gathering that hopes to increase meaningful participation of emerging farmers in the agricultural sector. Massey Ferguson offers high performance products & solutions, including mechanization planning across all farming segments in Africa and is especially known for exceptional product reliability.

Green Week Berlin 2020One hectare of 'Keen on the Country' An entire hectare is being devoted to the display entitled 'Keen on the Country' at the International Green Week NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2019

NEWS UPDATE

Berlin 2020. Hall 27, the new multi-purpose building with a pillar-free area of some 10,000 square metres, is available for the first time at the Green Week. Between 17 and 26 January the concentrated display of the countryside and its capabilities in Hall 27 encompasses the segments of Rural Development, Multitalented Wood, Renewable Raw Materials, Woodlands, Game, Hunting and Nature, the Bio-economy and Ecological Cultivation. Various organic organisations are also represented here.

What is now the largest hall on the Berlin Exhibition Grounds is being marketed worldwide under the name hub27 as a location for trade fairs and exhibitions, other events and congresses, and is easily reached on foot from Messe Sud S-Bahn station. The two covered passageways leading to Halls 1 and 25 complete the circuit of the Exhibition Grounds.

Imara® wins TASPO Product of the Year Award Imara won the TASPO Award of the Year for Best Breeding Product. This is the second award for Imara after it was awarded for Best Ornamental Plant Introduction - Bedding by Horticulture Week Business Award in London in June this year. The gardener's favorite is back - again!

TASPO honours the best projects and companies in the industry in a variety of categories; products, companies, marketing and entrepreneur of the year.

Breeder Ton Groot is very excited with this recognition: “Due to the downy mildew break out in 2000 a new phase 10

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in the breeding of impatiens walleriana started. An important product and market for us and therefore we strongly focused on creating a solution for both growers and consumer as soon as possible. After years of intensive breeding IMARA was proudly introduced in 2018: The first downy mildew resistant impatiens walleriana on the market!”

Cobb Europe Partners With Al-Watania Poultry in Egypt to Host 'Safe Environment for Safe Food' Training Cobb Europe partnered with AlWatania Poultry in Egypt to host the pair's annual scientific conference focusing on the importance of creating a safe environment for broiler breeders. Held in Ain Sokhna, Egypt, the two-day intensive training course combined the technical expertise of Cobb Europe and Al-Watania Poultry leadership to reach industry leaders from over 50 companies and major industry investors.

The theme of the 2019 conference was “safe environment for safe food,” highlighting global and regional poultry trends, biosecurity measures, and opportunities for industry improvement including rations, mortality rates and optimizing performance. Mr. Abdullah Abu Hamid, chief executive officer of Al-Watania Poultry in Egypt, conducted the opening address, sharing insights on the evolving industry and growing demand for poultry in Egypt. As the exclusive distributor of Cobb genetics for the region, AlWatania Poultry plays an active role in food security and is evolving to meet growing needs from local growers.

“Poultry is one of the most

important industries for national food security in Egypt,” said Mr. Hamid. “Now in its 8th year, this critical conference combines the largest gathering of breeders, broilers and veterinarians in Egypt, Europe and the Middle East with the industry's top experts to create a place for active participation and learning. We leave feeling revitalized after this meeting each year and reenergized in our quest to work together to meet the needs of the region.”

Building on Mr. Hamid's presentation, Cobb leadership and industry leaders also shared information about vaccine application, breeder and broiler nutrition, breeder and broiler rations and performance, and safe and efficient housing.

“At each Al-Watania Poultry annual conference, we examine modern solutions to the problems hindering progress and growth in the poultry sector,” said Hosam Amro, Cobb Europe senior manager of technical service in the region.

“By combining the teams of both Al-Watania Poultry and Cobb Europe, we're able to maximize value each year to help participants get the most up-to-date information and approaches.”

FIRA 2019: the international event on agricultural robotics goes bigger Agricultural robotics is the undoubted solution for reducing the drudgery of work for producers: it allows them to provide quality food in sufficient quantity for the increasingly growing global population.

For its 4th edition, the FIRA offers to support this transition and announces major innovations. The event is from NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2019

VIV MEA 2020 ABU DHABI, U.A.E. MARCH 9-11

3 RD

EDITION

INTERNATIONAL TRADE SHOW FROM FEED TO FOOD FOR THE MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA SHOW PARTNERS

WWW.VIV.NET

& WORLD LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE ON MARCH 8

NEWS UPDATE

SIAL Middle East to Kick Off this December in Abu Dhabi with its 10th Anniversary Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Presidential Affairs and Chairman of The Abu Dhabi Agriculture & Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA), the tenth edition of SIAL Middle East, the exclusive regional food, beverage and hospitality trade event, will run from 9th to 11th December 2019 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC).

The event is organised by ADNEC Group, in collaboration with Comexposium and The Abu Dhabi Agriculture & Food Safety Authority.

Since its inception in 2010, SIAL ME has seen over Dhs 34 billion worth of deals done, 7,600 exhibitors and 153,900 experts from across the world, resulting in a total direct and indirect economic impact of Dhs 819 billion on the Emirate's economy. The impressive numbers showcase the importance and impact of SIAL ME and how it both continues to evolve and become a mainstay for the people of the food and beverage industry.

Expected to draw the participation of over 1,000 exhibitors, more than 30 country pavilions and over 20,000 industry experts from more than 50 countries, the upcoming edition of the event is set to mark a significant growth in terms of participation from leading local, regional and international organisations working in the food industry.

The current edition of the event pays great attention to date products in cooperation with Abu Dhabi Date Palm Exhibition, which is the only event in the world that brings together date producers. Last year saw 7,463 visitors attend SIAL Middle East to source coffee associated products, which again will have a major focus this year. SIAL Middle East is closely working with the Specialty Coffee Association to showcase the strong growth of this sector in the region.

SIAL Middle East 2019 returns with support from Host Sponsor: Abu Dhabi Chamber, Silver Sponsor: Royal Horizon, Retail Partner: Lulu Group and Official Travel & Destination Management Partner: Etihad Holidays.

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now on organized by the Global Organization for Agricultural Robotics (GOFAR): its exhibition area has tripled with some fifteen robots presented, and a first scientific symposium will be organized by Robagri.

Conferences, round-tables and high-quality technical workshops are the highlight of FIRA 2019 which has established itself as the leading event of the sector at international level.

For the first time in the world, some fifteen manufacturers of agricultural robots will be attending, gathered in one same place: whether these robots help managing weeds, monitoring hens or providing logistic support, they fulfill fundamental functions for the producers.

Agrifuture Conference will show future options for farmers in Southeast Asia Agrifuture Conference & Exhibition takes place in Bangkok in early December Wide range of conference and workshop topics to meet every interest - One-day conference will be complemented by a day of visits to progressive Thai farms.

A brand new event from the organisers of Agritechnica Asia, the DLG (German Agricultural Society) and VNU Exhibitions Asia Pacific, is taking place in Bangkok, Thailand, on the 2nd and 3rd of December 2019. The format of Agrifuture Conference & Exhibition is a one-day international conference and accompanying mini-exhibition, followed by a networking evening and a day of farm visits.

Bangkok's True Digital Park, Thailand's first and Southeast NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2019

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Asia's largest start-up and tech entrepreneurs' campus, will host the event, which has taken the theme “Prepare yourself for tomorrow's agri-business”. It is expected to attract attendees involved in all sectors of agricultural production from across the region with its comprehensive conference and workshop programme featuring expert speakers.

The topic for the morning session at the Agrifuture Conference is “New AgBusiness Opportunities”.

Speakers will include Dr. Wolfgang H. Pfeiffer of HarvestPlus, an IFPRI program, with his presentation on “Catalysing biofortified food systems with partners in supply chain and market

NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2019

development”. He will look at how to tackle malnutrition globally by breeding iron, zinc and vitamin A into staple food crops, and builds food systems through inclusive, sustainable markets.

Hamlet protein increasing focus on U.S market Hamlet Protein, multinational producer of soy protein specialties for young animals, aims for continuous growth in US. The company has made significant investments in production capacity in its Findlay (Ohio) facilities in recent years and is now ready to increase its market share in US and Canada. To help drive that growth, Hamlet Protein announced the hiring of

experienced Grady Fain as Vice President Sales & Marketing for the NCA region.

Grady Fain (BSc Biological & Agricultural Engineering) has a long track record in the animal feed industry. He started his career in the Wayne Feed Division of Continental Grain Company, then joined Feed Flavors Inc., which eventually became Nutriad Inc., and most recently transitioned to Adisseo.

Fain stated: “Over the course of my career I have always focused on working with companies that bring true value to customers. Hamlet Protein has a high quality product portfolio with a proven track record in markets across the world. I am particularly excited about the value proposition into

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NEWS UPDATE

young animals and the approach into AGP free diets.”

The US continues to be the second largest feed producer in the world, behind China.

Hamlet Protein opened its local production in 2012, in Findlay Ohio, and recently completed a major investment to increase capacity under patented technology.

Hamlet Protein CEO Erik Visser commented: “The US animal feed market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 2.4% from US$ 75 Billion in 2018 to US$ 85 Billion in 2024. Not only will the total feed volume grow, but the need to produce more efficiently will take center stage.

Also consumers will drive the reduction of antibiotics in feed, which is where Hamlet Protein can play a role. We are optimistic about our potential in the North

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American market, considering our track record in other markets around the world.”

Case IH receives two “Machine of the Year 2020” awards at Agritechnica

Case IH awarded for its newly launched LB436HD baler and for its new mixed-fleets connectivity partnership DataConnect / LB436 HD has new and upgraded features including pick-up, driveline, density system and knotter technology / DataConnect enables global mixed-fleet customers to view their machine data in the platform of their choice.

The new LB436 HD baler has been awarded “Machine of the Year 2020” in the category “Hay and Forage”, and DataConnect connectivity solutions in the “Electronics” category during a ceremony

held at Agritechnica in Hannover, Germany. The jury, composed of a panel of European agricultural magazine editors, recognized the several benefits of this new baler range, brought by its innovative new features, enabling farmers and contractors to pack more material into every bale, while reducing handling requirements and transport costs. The new connectivity partnership “DataConnect” enables mixedfleet customers to manage farm, fleet and data more easily.

With new designs and components throughout, the LB436 HD is capable of producing bales with up to 22% greater density than the LB434 XL model, which produces the same 120 x 90cm bale size and remains in the range.

Features unique to the LB436

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NEWS UPDATE

HD include a new main gearbox and mid-ship gearbox with gearshift overload protection for high power transfer and driveline safety. In addition, an innovative new twine knotter system, named TwinePro, is designed to boost productivity while eliminating field litter and bale contamination. The LB436 HD is fully ISOBUS Class 3 compatible, meaning not only can it be controlled from an ISOBUS terminal in the tractor cab, but the baler can also control the tractor's actions, such as increasing forward speed in light areas of swaths, to automatically boost workrates.

(November 2018). "The figure relating to the exhibition area demand is very significant explained the president of FederUnacoma Alessandro Malavolti - in net growth compared to previous editions. To date, almost 100 thousand net square metres are already potentially occupied, and in

sectors such as forestry, land reclamation, spraying and soil processing, as well as green care,the surface involved is alreadyover 80% of the overall capacityassigned to these sectors, whileother product categories such asirrigation and farming machinesare already at 90% of the available area.

EIMA 2020: Organizational machine already on track

A year ahead of the event, the EIMA agricultural mechanics international exhibition - which will take place in Bologna from 11 to 15 November 2020 - is already in its full organizational phase. The Italian federation of agricultural machinery manufacturers FederUnacoma, organizer of the great Bologna event, opened registrations for exhibiting industries last September 23, and is already handling a number of enrolments flowing in at a faster rate than expected.

In the first two days since the registrations were opened - the organizers explained during the press conference held recently at the Hannover exhibition - over 600 requests for participation were formalized, many of which came from foreign manufacturers, and in the subsequent days the requests have continued to flow steadily. Currently, there are almost 1,200 formalized enrolments, a number that suggests a total number of exhibitors above the record level of 1,950 reached last year NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2019

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GROWTECH PREVIEW

GROWTECH FAIR: PLATFORM FOR THE LATEST AGRICULTURAL TECHNOLOGY

T

he world's biggest exhibition in greenhouse industry Growtech 19th International Greenhouse, Agricultural Technology and Livestock Equipment Fair is being held in Antalya between November 27-30, 2019. This year, the fair is preparing to welcome over 850 exhibitor brands from more than 30 countries and over 90 thousand international visitors from more than 130 countries. In the fair to be organized in the

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venue of 50 thousand sqm at Antalya Expo Center, there are 5 categories: “Greenhouse & Irrigation Technologies”, “Seed”, “Plant Nutrition and Protection”, “Tractors & Agricultural Machinery”, and “Livestock”. Among the companies preparing to exhibit their products and services in these categories, TIMFOG, STOLLER and HEKTAS have made statements both about the fair and their products & services before the show.

According to Cengiz Yaylali, Board Chairman of TIMFOG, Growtech is a fair that especially attracts the attention of Westerners.

Therefore, we consider the fair as the meeting point with Europe. We are trying to exhibit Timfog's recently developed products in this fair.

This year, we will also exhibit our state-of-art technologies in modern greenhouses. We will present a new brand of ours. It will be a brand that NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2019

GROWTECH PREVIEW

manufactures turnkey greenhouses, focuses on special plants rather than on a classic modern greenhouse and operates in special areas.

Canan Yilmaz, Marketing Director of Stoller, a plant nutrition company operating globally since 1970, states that as one of the oldest exhibitors of Growtech Fair, having been in Growtech for 18 years has provided them with a great experience for observing the development of both the fair and their company. “We have exported to many countries thanks to participation of different countries and our connections at Growtech.

Growtech is a meeting point for the sector. We are happy to NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2019

come together with fellow companies sharing the market with us and our customers we render service to across Turkey in one location.

Duygu Yuce Kavas, Brand and Communication Manager of Hektas Company, states that Hektas performs production in all inputs of the agricultural sector today and acts with the vision of becoming a global company that is opened to foreign markets. Highlighting that Growtech is the most important meeting platform of the sector, Kavas says “As Hektas, we have been attending Growtech Fair for 10 years. By this means, we can meet domestic and foreign manufacturers and share our applications directly with them.

Engin Er, Exhibition Director of Growtech: “Professionals of global agricultural sector will meet at Growtech this year” Underlining that Growtech is an export-oriented fair, Engin Er, Exhibition Director of Growtech says “This year, we are preparing to welcome more than 90 thousand visitors from over 130 countries and more than 850 exhibitor brands from over 30 countries. We have countries like The Netherlands, Spain, China, Korea, Jordan and Egypt that will provide National Participation. We will organize the Hosted Buyer Program from 51 countries on November 27 with the organization of the West Mediterranean Exporters Union (WMEU) under the coordination of the T.R. Ministry of Commerce.

Synergy created with bilateral negotiations thanks to Growtech is turning into long-

term commercial connections.

I believe that we, as Growtech, have made significant contributions to the sector and our country in achieving their export targets. In 2019, we will bring the global agricultural sector professionals together at Growtech International Agriculture Fair.”

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IRRIGATION SHOW PREVIEW

IRRIGATION AND GROUNDWATER INDUSTRIES TO GATHER UNDER ONE ROOF

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he Irrigation Association invites you to join the irrigation industry in Las Vegas, Nevada, Dec. 2-6, for the 2019 Irrigation Show and Education Week. This year's event will offer all of the great education and experiences attendees have come to know and look forward to, as well as some new and exciting opportunities to explore, connect and learn all the best the industry has to offer.

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This year's show offers expanded opportunities as the IA is co-locating with the National Ground Water Association. Bringing partner organizations together means that you will be among nearly 10,000 industry peers and browse an exhibit hall with 600 total exhibitors.

Explore new technology The Irrigation Show brings you all of the latest products

and technologies in the industry under one roof. The trade show floor and new product contest provide the unique opportunity to see these products firsthand and get your questions answered in person by knowledgeable representatives.

Top-notch education The IA has re-engineered its education week to offer even more ways to not only learn NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2019

IRRIGATION SHOW PREVIEW

irrigation skills but also stay up to date on the latest issues affecting the industry. Industry Insights will feature presentations and panel discussions on everything from research studies to practical irrigation skills to business management, while IA University classes teach foundational and practical irrigation skills.

One-of-a-kind tours 2019 is a great chance to take advantage of being in Las Vegas and the exciting famous landmark attractions this location has to offer. The IA is offering show attendees two different NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2019

tour options. Your week in the lively city of Las Vegas will provide ample additional opportunities to connect with peers in the industry.

International travel information The Irrigation Association is happy to issue letters of invitation to international attendees and exhibitors applying for a visa application. Visit www.irrigationshow.org to download the request form found in the International Travels section under the Hotels/Travel tab. You must register to attend the Irrigation

Show before you submit your request.

An IA invitation letter does not guarantee that you will be granted a visa. Find visa application information and instructions from the U.S. Department of State at https://travel.state.gov/.

Additional airport, hotel and transportation information can be found on the show website under the Hotels/Travel tab.

Register today!

Now is the time to register to attend this important event. To register for the show or find additional information, go to www.irrigationshow.org.

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IPM ESSEN PREVIEW

THE WORLD'S LEADING HORTICULTURAL FAIR AT THE COMPLETELY MODERNIZED MESSE ESSEN

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PM ESSEN will take place for the 38th time at Messe Essen from 28 to 31 January 2020. In 2020, the world's leading horticultural trade fair will be held on the completely modernized exhibition grounds for the first time. Eight large exhibition halls on one level, equipped with the latest infrastructure, the Galeria and Hall 1A will offer the ideal presentation area to more than 1,500 exhibitors from almost 50 nations. For the first time, visitors will also be able to reach IPM ESSEN 2020 through the new East Glass Foyer as an entrance. The range on offer at the international trade fair will include innovative products and services from the fields of

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plants, technology, floristry and garden features. IPM ESSEN will be accompanied by a varied program. The neighbour France will present itself as the official partner country.

The numerous national stands are unique at IPM ESSEN: In 2020, Turkey will return to the world's leading trade fair with 220 square meters of exhibition space. Guatemala will also present itself again after a year's break. Lithuania is planning its own national stand. Other countries have confirmed their participation: Belgium, China, Costa Rica, Denmark, Great Britain, India, Israel, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sri

Lanka, Taiwan, Hungary and the USA will present new solutions and innovations.

Special attention will be paid to the national stands of France because, in 2020, the "Grande Nation" will present itself as the official partner country of IPM ESSEN. For example, the International Horticulture Forum will be held under the French flag and will shed light on current horticultural findings.

Awards, prize-giving ceremonies and competitions The Green City in Hall 1A will once again be the hotspot for prize-giving ceremonies and competitions: the "Innovation Showcase" will NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2019

IPM ESSEN PREVIEW

feature the most beautiful and best new varieties from the participating plant exhibitors, selected by a jury of experts.

In 2020, the IPM competitions will be held under the motto, "I live it this way - it won't get greener!" The wake-up calls of the young generation for climate and environmental protection cannot be ignored.

Florists and trainees are being NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2019

called upon to let their imaginations run wild and to express their love for diverse and flowering nature with their work. The "Show Your Colours Awards" in Hall 7 will focus on perennials and shrubs with special marketing concepts. The more unusual the story behind the plant, the greater the chance of winning the coveted award.

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SAUDI AGRICULTURE REVIEW

SAUDI AGRICULTURE EXHIBITION 2019 ATTRACTED 17,000 VISITORS

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audi Agriculture Exhibition, held under the patronage of His Excellency, Eng. Abdulrahman Al-Fadhli, the Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture, has attracted more than 17,000 visitors.

The exhibition, which was organized by The Riyadh Exhibition Company Ltd. (REC), took place from the 21st to the 24th of October 2019 at the Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center. Saudi Agriculture 2019 was concurrently held with Saudi Aquaculture, Saudi Food Pack and Saudi Organic food.

During the 3rd International Saudi Aquaculture Exhibition, the Saudi Aquaculture Society signed an agreement with the Association of the Restaurants and Cafes "Qoot". The agreement aims at increasing seafood consumption in the Kingdom.

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On the other hand, the National Center for Palms & Dates also signed an agreement with the Association of the Restaurants and Cafes "Qoot".

The agreement aims to open marketing outlets for "Saudi Dates Mark", which is a registered trademark provided by the National Center for Palms & Dates (NCPD) to align producers with national and international standards.

Agreements In order to include Saudi products, which were granted the “Saudi Dates Mark”, in outlets without fees, the National Center for Date Palm and Dates signed a number of agreements with major shops and markets such as Lulu Markets, Sbar, Carrefour and Al Sadhan”.

With a diamond sponsorship

by Fakieh Poultry Farms, and the partnership of Saudi Organic Farming Association (SOFA),

and Saudi Aquaculture Society, The Saudi Agriculture exhibition hosted 9 country pavilions and more than 380 exhibitors representing 34 countries.

Sessions Specialized discussion sessions were held during the Saudi Agriculture Exhibition, which witnessed the participation of a number of government leaders and CEOs from local and international companies.

Future Investment in Aquaculture Industry Session addressed government initiatives aimed at encouraging local and international companies to invest in the sector. It also explored the role of the fish and shrimp feed industry, research and innovation in the development of the requirements and applications of the industry, and the evolution of inland fish farming.

Additionally, the session on "Development of Organic NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2019

SAUDI AGRICULTURE REVIEW

Agriculture between Reality and Expectations in the Kingdom and Future Investment Strategies" discussed the proposed investment opportunities for Saudi SMEs. It also outlined the Executive Plan of Action for the Saudi Organic Agriculture Policy and the standards of organic farming procedures in accordance to the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture.

Furthermore, Dr, Yousef AlYousef, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Science at King Faisal University, gave an overview on the development research programs in regard to the poultry industries.

Eng. Adel Jouma, Deputy Director General of the Strategy Department at the Agricultural Development Fund (ADF), and Eng. Mousa Al-Qahtani, Strategic Planning Director and the Official Spokesperson of the ADF. Have reviewed the Fund's strategy for Achieving Sustainable Agricultural Development Goals, through increasing financial and investment opportunities NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2019

provided to the Private Sector.

Participants in the session “Poultry Sector in the Kingdom: Exploring Reality and Future Growth� discussed the vision to become a major source of high-quality poultry products. The session also explored the current condition of the sector, the 50% growth plans in the upcoming two years, and the nature of the support and investment required to encourage research.

On their part, a number of specialists participated in the session for "bee industry in the Kingdom: the current situation and future aspirations". In the session, they discussed current and future efforts exerted by the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture to improve the sector.

According to Mohammad Al Al-Sheikh, Head of Marketing at Riyadh Exhibitions Company (REC), the exhibition aims to expand the potential and opportunities of the agricultural sector in the Kingdom through supporting and developing sustainable and environmentally friendly projects using the latest technologies.

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SPACE REVIEW

SPACE 2019: A GREAT SUCCESS

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PACE 2019 took place from 10 to 13 September at the Rennes Exhibition Centre, in France. This thirty-third edition was a great success and boasted a cheerful and positive atmosphere. All the participants came in "project mode" to partake in the four days of "Planet Livestock". This was a sign of the relatively stable economic situation of our livestock sectors, thanks to a slightly more favourable business climate.

Livestock farmers working in all types of animal production were able to enjoy the Expo, which is aligned with the image they have of their profession as a constructive, 21st-century sector.

SPACE 2019 brought together 1,400 exhibitors from 42 countries, and 105,318 visitors, including 14,706 international

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visitors from 122 countries. The international attendance, up to 2%, reflects the global dimension of this edition. This Expo was marked by the participation of many delegations who came to our great livestock region of Western France to find information on developing animal production in their countries: Russia with its national agency for the development of organic agriculture; China, with a delegation led by the ViceGovernor of Shandong Province; Kazakhstan with its ViceMinister of Agriculture and its Ambassador to France; and many more. It is also important to point out the participation of many delegations from Africa, the continent in the spotlight this year: Senegal, Cameroon, Nigeria, Mali, Guinea Conakry

and CĂ´te d'Ivoire all came to SPACE with very specific objectives of promoting livestock development in their countries.

This edition was also dedicated to the climate.

Farmers are already largely engaged in efforts to combat climate change, and this was clearly demonstrated at the Espace for the Future, with its theme "Climate-Friendly Practices and Technologies". A wide range of pragmatic and financially viable solutions for greenhouse gas reduction, energy production and energy efficient systems in livestock buildings were presented at the Espace for the Future.

SPACE 2019 once again showcased innovation in livestock farming thanks to 46 Innov'SPACE winners and four NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2019

SPACE REVIEW

Top Choice awards. Sustainability, health excellence and animal welfare, digital technology and improved working conditions were the main areas addressed by these new products.

All these themes were addressed in depth at the nearly hundred conferences and debates on the agenda this year. The full and varied programme makes SPACE an absolutely unique venue for sharing knowledge geared towards promoting and developing agriculture.

The animal presentations were also very successful this year, with 560 cattle (out of 1,500 candidates) of 13 different breeds, and 180 sheep. Thanks to the variety of breeds present, SPACE promotes genetics at the national and international levels by showcasing these animals and their breeders. The breeds in the spotlight were Salers for beef breeds, and Pie Rouge for dairy breeds. For the first time, the SPACE organised a European Pie Rouge Challenge, with 45 elite animals from France, Belgium and Germany. The Genomic Elite auction, the only one in Europe with 31 lots of seven different breeds, including the Limousine NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2019

breed returning this year, was also very popular. The highest bid was Euro 8,600.

The 33rd SPACE organisers were also happy to announce an exciting European Prim'Holstein challenge coming in 2022.

The official visit in the presence of Didier Guillaume, Minister of Agriculture and Food, as well as LoĂŻg Chesnais-Girard, President of the Brittany Region, provided an opportunity for various stakeholders in the livestock sector to express their expectations regarding the future orientations of our agriculture, which is going through a period of transition.

During the four-day event, SPACE facilitates interactions and networking in its mission to help farmers cope with the changes occurring in the livestock sectors.

SPACE opened its doors to aquaculture this year by organising two conferences on the topic, as well as a tour of a fish farm, and by clearly identifying companies offering solutions for this sector. Given the success of this initiative, a special area featuring stands dedicated to fish farming will be set up at SPACE 2020, which will take place from Tuesday 15 to Friday 18 September.

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HEALTHY FOOD FORUM REVIEW

FORUM ON THE FUTURE OF HEALTHY FOOD

I

n cooperation with Al Rawabi Dairy Company and FrieslandCampina Middle East, the Senior Policy Advisor - Agri & Food Samar Kadri at the Department of Agri & Food - Netherlands Consulate in Dubai organized The Future of Healthy Food Forum, to discuss the importance of healthy food for better nutrition.

The Forum was Opened by H.E Hans Sandee, Consul General of the Kingdom of Netherlands, and attended by Mr. Erik Smidt, Agricultural Counsellor for the Gulf Region, Dr. Ahmed El Tigani, CEO of Al Rawabi Dairy Company, Mr. Sumeet Mathur, Managing

HE Hans Sandee opening speech during the Forum on the Future of Healthy Food 26

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Director of FrieslandCampina Middle East, and Rutger Shilpzand, Executive Director of Choices International from The Netherlands.

The Forum supports Al Rawabi's commitment to actively participate in the National Food Security Strategy, to develop a comprehensive national system based on enabling sustainable food production, enhancing local production, developing international partnerships to diversify food sources, and activating legislation and policies that contribute to improving nutrition, ensuring food safety, and launching national campaigns to reduce unhealthy food intake.

The Future of Healthy Food Forum discussed current and future trends in the health food industry, opportunities and challenges, and the future of functional dairy products, in the presence of international and local experts, to define the future model of healthy foods in the UAE market.

“At Al Rawabi, we offer healthy products to promote them as the ideal alternative to unhealthy foods. We have worked

to provide products containing Vitamin D, to combat Vitamin D deficiency in the UAE, which affects more than 88% of the population,” said El Tigani.

“We were happy to participate in The Future of Healthy Food Forum, organised by the Netherlands Consulate in Dubai, to come up with solutions to the challenges facing the region, such as scarcity of natural resources, climate change, etc.

We believe that these challenges will change how food manufacturers work soon. Today, we are witnessing a shift in consumer preferences, where they are opting for natural, sustainable products with less ingredients, designed to meet their needs,” said Mathur.

Rutger Shilpzand, Executive Director of Choices International from the Netherlands spoke about “in search for healthy solutions at supermarket”, diabetes worldwide and prevalence of diabetes percent per country. He stressed on the need for future actions. Mr. Rutger indicated the necessity to follow the WHO's recommendations on sugar reducing and agenda to shape tomorrow's diet.

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UAE FARMING UPDATE

A PROJECT THAT COMBINES NATURE AND ENTERTAINMENT

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he fast moving life in UAE and the ongoing technological developments in all major aspects in the country, didn't stop Hamed Al Hamed, an Emirati strategic entrepreneur, to go back to nature and create a new concept. A project that combines nature and entertainment using the highest technologies that the UAE provides in different aspects.

Why Gracia farms?

From here came the idea of Gracia farms, a new concept in agriculture for a comprehensive farm to change the prejudgment on ordinary farms. Gracia farms started by implementing a high technology greenhouse model that help farmers defy the challenges in the agricultural industry, thus achieving a very important national aim for the

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UAE - Food Security.

“Give me agriculture, and I will give you civilization.”

These are the words of the father of the nation, Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, God Bless His Soul, as he dreamed to turn the desert into a green land. Realizing Sheikh Zayed's dream and how much agricultural wealth is vital, Gracia farms invested in this endeavor using the latest technologies. It became the center of attraction for so many working in the HQYLURQPHQWDO ÀHOGV LQFOXGLQJ the minister of food security, Maryam Al Mehiri, in addition to business men, farmers, and school teachers. Gracia Farms ZRQ WKH ÀUVW SODFH LQ 6KDUMDK Economic Excellence Network Award and is an active member in the government project for food security.

7KH ÀUVW HGXFDWLRQDO GHSDUWPHQW DW WKH IDUP Apart from the agricultural aspect, Gracia Farms worked on spreading the culture of planting in schools and at home through the educational visits made by different schools in Abu Dhabi to the farm and following the grow peace program. This program aims to cultivate peace in children using nature. Children had the chance to be in a natural environment to learn, discover, and transfer their learnings to their schools and homes.

7KH 0LQL *UHHQKRXVHV To help families and children grow at their houses, Gracia Farm constructed mini hydroponic smart greenhouses to motivate families grow the basic vegetables at their houses.

NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2019

NURSERIES

LEADERS IN AGRICULTURE RETAIL AND LANDSCAPING

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stablished in 1985, AlShaheen Nurseries has been ever since developing itself as one of the leaders in the field of agriculture retail and landscaping. AlShaheen Nurseries provides a complete set of agriculture and gardening services. The team is run by well qualified engineers and experienced supervisors, with a long and successful track record in agriculture projects execution. The company is located in Shuwaikh, 4th Ring Road, Nurseries Area. It’s our pleasure to introduce our wide range of services we offer the following: Landscaping and planting division for indoor and outdoor gardens. Wholesale division (For Agricultural Companies only).

Maintenance team for agricultural projects and house gardens.

Designing and implementing irrigation systems.

Wide range of indoor and outdoor plants.

Wide rang of flower and vegetable seeds.

Different sizes and colors of plastic net shades.

All kinds of natural and chemical fertilizers.

Peat Moss, potting soil, hydroton.

Agent and distributor of indoor and outdoor pots of different shapes and sizes.

AlShaheen Nurseries showroom is considered as a garden center for selling indoor and outdoor plants – Grass – Peat Moss – Potting Soil – Plastic Net Shades – Pots – Rocks –Seeds – Natural and Chemical Fertilizers – Agrilite – Irrigation Sys. – Water pumps – Insect killer – Hydroton – Palm bags.

The Company aims to provide many items to serve different customer’s tastes, in addition to provide the best quality and less prices under one roof.

AlShaheen Nurseries owns a farm in Wafra area specialized in growing plants, flowers, and paspalum grass, runs by well qualified engineers to provide the market and the Agricultural companies with the best varieties and quality. The farm is considered one of leading farms in Wafra in growing plants, flowers, and pasplam grass.

NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2019

The Project Division is run by well qualified team of engineers and supervisors to design landscape and maintain gardens. There is a team for designing & implementing irrigation systems.

The whole sale division was established in 2000 to provide the Ministries and the agricultural companies with plants, garden tools and irrigation systems. Since then, the division has been supplying some of the leading government and private projects.

Shaheen M. AlRubaie General Manager

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29

IRRIGATION

Tomatoes in screen house

Fodder in Kenya

GROWSTREAMTM PROVIDES HIGHER YIELDS AND SIGNIFICANT WATER SAVINGS

By Ms Jan Gould

RDI'S SYSTEM HAS BEEN PRESENTED FOR USE IN NAIROBI'S AND SOMALIA'S CITY BEAUTIFICATION PROJECTS

30

W

ater covers approximately 72% of the Earth. With this massive resource comprising the majority of the Earth's surface, then some would question, “Why panic about water scarcity?” Over millions of years, the planet has efficiently recycled the water between the ground, lakes, rivers, oceans and the atmosphere to constantly provide freshwater. The real threat is not about the quantity of water on the planet, but the quality of clean, freshwater.

Human waste water and chemicals applied through irrigation contaminate water sources. More than a billion people live without enough safe, clean water.

Due to the increasing demand by mankind's growing population, expanding industry

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and urban development: water scarcity is a threatening reality.

Responsive Drip Irrigation (RDI) is a solution for conserving and protecting the world's freshwater.

RDI commercially released GrowstreamTM, the world's first plant-responsive irrigation system in December of 2018.

This disruptive irrigation technology uses an understanding of plant physiology and organic chemistry, creating Growstream's “smart” subsurface tube. This patented, chemically-infused microporous tubing holds water and nutrients until plant root exudates are emitted that trigger the release of water from the tubing. GrowstreamTM doesn't attempt to control Nature, but rather interacts on an organic cellular level to

respond to nature's signals.

This nature-driven system is the most water-efficient irrigation ever invented.

Growstream's plant-responsive system provides a slow-release delivery of water that matches the roots' absorption capacity.

GrowstreamTM allows the plant to regulate its water delivery, resulting in unmatched plant performance, higher yields and significant water savings compared to conventional drip irrigation system. Lawn and landscape require far less water and achieve superior results.

This plant-responsive method of irrigation demonstrates superior efficiency over all currently available subsurface drip systems, using 30-50% less water.

Growstream's tube has millions of microscopic openings along its surface to NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2019

Kakuma watermelon field

release water. The system has no emitters to clog or malfunction. RDI's system operates at extremely low pressure (2-4 psi), delivering water in row lengths exceeding 1200 feet. Due to the low operating pressure, irrigation can be delivered from a rain barrel. There is no need for electronic components-just a water source. There are no solenoids, valves, controllers, timers or other electronic devices required.

Growstream's tube supplies water-soluble fertilizers directly in the rhizophere, reducing the amount of fertilizer that needs to be applied. GrowstreamTM eliminates fertilizer run-off and prevents contamination from fertilizers into groundwater, lakes, rivers, and oceans.

RDI offers irrigation solutions for landscapes, golf courses, vertical and rooftop gardens, trees & orchards, vineyards, greenhouses, and commercial farms.

GrowstreamTM is available in the U.S. and has been installed NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2019

in California, Colorado, Kansas and Florida, with projects pending in New Mexico, Utah and Texas.

RDI was awarded the “Best Innovation by a Startup” at the March 2019 Global Forum for Innovations in Agriculture (GFIA) in Abu Dhabi.

Following the GFIA show in Abu Dhabi, RDI began product distribution in Africa and Pakistan. Hydroponics Africa Limited, an RDI distributor in Africa, has installed GrowstreamTM in greenhouses, farms, and refugee camps. Due to Growstream's simplicity of installation and operation while delivering superior crop production, GrowstreamTM has been dubbed the “magic tube”.

The system is producing higher yields using 40-50% less water than drip or hydroponic methods. RDI's system has been presented for use in Nairobi's and Somalia's city beautification projects. EvaAnna Farms, RDI's distributor in Pakistan, has begun agricultural installations at the

Lettuce in vertical trays

National Agricultural Resource Center and also began turf and landscape installations for commercial projects and communities in Islamabad.

GrowstreamTM is capable of growing plants in the harshest of environments, while using minimal amounts of water. This plant-responsive technology will forever change the way the world irrigates.

Tomorrow's children should not have to suffer the consequences of the past generations' mistakes. RDI's focus is to facilitate environmental changes today that will not only preserve, but regenerate, the planet for tomorrow.

For more information about RDI: Visit their website at: www.responsivedrip.com or call them in the U.S. at: (+1) 941.792.9788 Responsive Drip Irrigation, LLC, 6404 Manatee Ave. W. Suite N, Bradenton, FL 34209 Company email is: info@responsivedrip.com

THE WATER SOURCE CAN BE A WELL, A RIVER, BRACKISH WATER, TAP WATER, RECLAIMED WATER, ETC. HIGH TEMPERATURES DO NOT AFFECT THE SYSTEM'S EFFICIENCY. GROWSTREAM™ WILL LEAD TO AN UNPRECEDENTED CONVERSION OF PREVIOUSLY NONARABLE LAND FOR CROP PRODUCTION TO INCREASE GLOBAL FOOD SUPPLY, WHILE DRASTICALLY REDUCING THE USE OF EARTH'S MOST VALUABLE RESOURCE: WATER.

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PLANTER BAGS

WANGARA HORTICULTURAL SUPPLIES “NEW PRODUCT LAUNCH”

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HS Australia is debuting its World Wide Launch in the Gulf Countries with a product specifically designed with the MENA region's climate in mind.

Introducing the Innovative and Patented Desert Bag™. This new product is exclusively available through WHS Australia and is the product of engineering and manufacturing advances that allow for a Grow Bag that is produced specifically for the Middle East growers and tree farms.

This new and exciting product will allow growers to keep their trees in Grow Bags for a longer period of time.

It will also allow for safer transportation of trees and inspection of the root ball at all stages of the plants life. The design includes: Sun protected handles that are wrapped in a fabric that will break down over time, but will keep the integrity of the handle intact.

An extra band at the top diameter ensure the handles do not come away from the Grow Bag. A double layer material around the entire bag ensures that Sun Damage 32

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is limited to the outer layer, while leaving the structure of the bag untouched.

A new perimeter belt ensures the bag stands up solidly and supports the root ball.

One model of the Desert Bag™ includes a side opening that allows for inspection of the root ball, easy removal of the tree from the Grow

Bag as well as the opportunity to Re-Use the Grow Bag. The company has announced that existing customers will be receiving sample Desert Bags™ in the next few weeks to begin growing Better Trees and Bigger Profits. There is also an opportunity to register your interest for a sample by sending your details to info@whsaustralia.com.au NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2019

WANGARA HORTICULTURAL SUPPLIES: AN INDUSTRY LEADER

DESERT PLANTER BAG™ Innovative Patented Design

Controlled environment agriculture * until January 2019

Recyclable Healthy roots without spiraling Direct control of soil and plant health Save water

Trusted supplier to the Middle East for 25 years!

Climate-smart product; manufactured for all the Middle East Regions

UV stabilized including handle stitching Heavy duty and long lasting Easy to move and relocate plants Increased return on investment Organic friendly agriculture

WHS Australia

Postal Address

General Enquiries

Unit 2 65 Prestige Parade, Wangara WA 6065 Australia

PO Box 1656 Wangara 6947 WA 6947 Australia

Ph: +61 8 6305 0081 Fax: +61 8 6305 0571 Email: info@whsaustralia.com.au

whsaustralia.com.au Gulf Agriculture september 2019.indd 1

Follow us on 6/09/2019 1:52:46 PM

PLANTER BAGS

MEETING INSTANT HEDGING DEMAND

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hat is instant hedging?

Instant hedging has become increasingly popular of late, as customers do not want to wait years for fully-grown, healthy hedges to grow.

Instant hedges provide security and also create a visually attractive backdrop for any landscape, with the added benefit that they are easy to install, long lasting and provide immediate gratification.

Why HedgePlanta?

The Beck Group's specialist HedgePlanta container bag range has been designed specifically to meet today's instant hedging demand, but also take into consideration the challenges that many growers in the Middle East face, such as climate conditions.

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The benefits of the HedgePlanta range include: Manufactured from UV treated woven polypropylene Ensures healthy roots without spiralling Unique 2 hook and loop straps Reinforced sides to ensure the bags stay securely in shape Feature 4 lifting loops Provide an innovative solution for transportation direct from the grower to a landscape project What other products do the Beck Group offer?

We also offer TreePlanta planter bags, produced from tough, woven UV-stabilised polypropylene, which are double-laminated for rigidity, allowing for speedy potting.

As a specialist supplier of woven polypropylene sacks, bags and fabrics to industry and

horticulture, Beck Group can also supply products designed and manufactured to customer's own specification including bespoke sizes, colours and branding. (Minimum order quantities apply).

What makes the Beck Group stand out against the rest?

Beck Group are dedicated to providing complete customer satisfaction every time, providing a personal, reliable and on-time service. Many of our products are also manufactured from recycled materials, testimony to our commitment to environmental considerations.

Beck Group are a leading planter bag supplier in the UK and distribute bags worldwide.

For more information visit www.treeplanta.com

NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2019

SEEDS

Vinca Tattoo Black Cherry

Vinca Tattoo Raspberry

MAKE YOUR MARK WITH TATTOO VINCA!

T

he art of plants comes alive on every Tattoo™ vinca bloom each petal looks like it is inked or airbrushed with soft brush strokes of dark purple. Adding these novelties to your lineup proves you have your finger on the pulse of what today's gardener really wants: bold, fun, head-turning colour.

Tattoo is comprised of four unique colours: Black Cherry, Papaya, Raspberry and Tangerine. The black eye and swirl patterns in the flowers are more intense in warmer Summer temperatures. Plus, this uniform, upright series is very floriferous, well branched and outstanding in hot, sunny conditions.

Tattoo blooms display the best colour contrast under warmer conditions with moderate light; colours lighten with increased temperatures and light. Grown NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2019

under cooler conditions and lower light, colours appear darker overall with less contrast and more purple colouration being expressed.

As vinca are well known for their durable flowering, knockout colour and exceptional heat tolerance in landscapes and containers, it was pertinent to the breeder to reinvigorate this vinca series with a modern upgrade. This goal was certainly achieved, with the Tattoo series winning a Greenhouse Grower Medal of Excellence at Cultivate '18 for Industry's Choice - Best New Variety. Tattoo‌ without a doubt, is the most unique vinca on the market today!

Visit panamseed.com for more information on the award-winning Tattoo vinca, plus many more exciting products!

Vinca Tattoo Tangerine

Vinca Tattoo Papaya GULF AGRICULTURE

35

CLIMATE CONTROL

THE IMPORTANCE OF CLIMATE CONTROL AND HOW TO MINIMIZE THE PROBLEM

H

SOME STUDIES SHOW THAT EGGS PRODUCTION HAS BEEN REDUCED BY UP TO 8% WHEN TEMPERATURES RISE FROM 21 TO 32°C

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eat stress is the most important factor affecting poultry production: extreme temperatures obviously affect the birds very much resulting in high mortality rates and in loss of productivity. Anyway, already in correspondence with hot temperatures, that are typical during summer, we register losses in eggs production as well as a general disease.

There is a negative relationship between temperatures and the amount of feed eaten. The reduced intake of energy is often associated with a limited growth. When birds are under heat stress, their bodies react with a feed reduction. When feed consumption is reduced, also the metabolic substrates and the energy useful for metabolism are limited with positive consequences in heat production.

Some studies show that eggs production has been reduced by up to 8% when temperatures rise from 21 to 32°C. In the specific case of laying hens, the physiological data we registered in condition of heat stress have a particular importance

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in the egg quality parameters: from one side the reduction of egg size and on the other shell's thickness and rigidity (internal and external) are also worsen.

A study was conducted to examine the effect of high temperatures male chicken fertility: semen volume was reduced by 50% compared to males exposed to 21°C. Fertility was also reduced by 28% under heat stress which underline the importance of alleviating heat stress in males particularly during the breeding season.

There are many different ways to minimize the heat stress. In general, this goal can be achieved through proper equipment, with a right feeding and with abundant water administration.

Surely, air movement is one of the most effective solutions for refreshing the shed during the hot period: air flow eliminates excessive heat from the animal producing a fresh feeling (also called "windchill effect"), but also to ensure the proper supply of oxygen and eliminate metabolic substances such as moisture, ammonia and carbon dioxide.

Termotecnica Pericoli creates products that can solve the problem of excessive heat and relieve heat stress in poultry.

Combining the quality of “Made in Italy” with a 50-year experience and a R & D department equipped with the latest technology, we have developed a range of exhaust fans that achieve excellent - and certified - performances with regards to efficiency and energy consumption.

The fans are available in both the standard wall version in different models and sizes and in the conical one.

Also the evaporative cooling pad PERIcool is totally manufactured in Italy in a highly automated process and by using special odorless resins.

Based on the simple physical principle of adiabatic cooling, it is the perfect combination between ease of use, reliability and low operating costs, making it the perfect solution for solving the problem of excessive heat in large environments.

For more information visit www.pericoli.com NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2019

ANIMAL FEEDS

DÉSIALIS: THE LARGEST EUROPEAN OPERATOR OF DEHYDRATED PRODUCTS FOR ANIMAL NUTRITION

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ounded in 2004, Désialis is the largest European operator of dehydrated products for animal nutrition. Our bales and pellets are from GMOfree alfalfa or sugar beet pulp, grown and transformed in France.

Désialis supplies most major european players in animal nutrition, and has a strong operational and logistical expertise for international trade. Modern and efficient production facilities, all part of a sustainable development approach, controlled technologies and processes, allow Désialis to offer safe products that comply with standards, and suite to the increasing requirements of animal nutrition.

NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2019

From the agronomic pathway of the plants till the factory processing and sale of the products, each stage is defined and strictly controlled. Storage, formulation and blending silos ensure the availability of our products, safety of supply and a perfect match between production and the needs of our customers. Désialis has developed a strong product segmentation policy in order to be able to anticipate and meet the requirements of various animal sectors. This strategy is consistent with our market approach: constantly

adapting our products to the demands of our markets.

50% of our sales are now exported. This is the result of our global scale positioning that we will pursue and develop to meet these new needs. Désialis markets the production of 25 dehydration plants, either agricultural cooperatives or industrial groups; they represent the planters who are, the leading players in our industry. The production sites are all in France, mostly localised in the North-East of the country.

FROM THE AGRONOMIC PATHWAY OF THE PLANTS TILL THE FACTORY PROCESSING AND SALE OF THE PRODUCTS, EACH STAGE IS DEFINED AND STRICTLY CONTROLLED.

For more information contact info@desialis.fr www.desialis.com

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EGG GRADING

HISTORY AND FUTURE OF CRACK DETECTION FROM "CANDLING" TO SHELL INSPECTOR

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MOBA CALCULATED THAT A HUMAN CANDLER IS NOT ABLE TO IDENTIFY MORE THAN APPROXIMATELY 50% OF THE CRACKS. THIS WAS MEASURED WHERE ONE CANDLER HANDLED 45,000 EGGS PER HOUR

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ne of the most dangerous abnormalities in consumption eggs is cracks in the shell. If the shell is no longer intact, there is a risk of bacteria penetrating the egg and endangering consumer safety.

The membranes of an egg are a strong barrier against infection.

If both membranes are still intact, in combination with only a micro-crack, the egg may be acceptable in some products, but eggs with bigger cracks definitely need to be removed from the consumption line.

Today in 2019, the majority of automatic egg graders are equipped with automatic crack detection, but still a significant part of the market relies on people manually inspecting eggs, the so-called "candling" process. It is long known that if eggs are sent over a back-lit roller conveyor and the people observing the egg flow are in a relatively dark environment ("candling booth"), it is possible to identify a lot of the cracks in eggs. In white eggs, bloodspots can also be observed. For many decades this was the only option for finding abnormalities in egg packing stations. As volumes increased, this became more and more tedious and hard work for the "candlers".

Following many studies, Moba calculated that a human candler is not able to identify more than approximately 50% of the cracks. This was measured where one candler handled 45,000 eggs per hour. With the increase of machine capacities over the years, this number is undoubtedly decreasing. That is

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why over the years automatic crack detection was developed by all manufacturers of egg grading machines, starting in the early 1980s. Vision technology was still immature in those days and the only reasonable way to identify a crack in an egg shell was by "listening". An intact egg shell will vibrate when impacted, like a wine glass will "sing" when you tap it with your finger.

Multiple methods If there is a crack in the egg shell, no matter how small, the tapping energy will be absorbed, resulting in a duller sound. Just like when a wine glass is broken you will not hear it sing. Basically, there are two methods of creating the impact: one is by actively having a probe impact the egg (tapping) and the alternative is having an egg impact a probe (rolling over). Both have distinct advantages and disadvantages. An active probe needs more technology to create the impact: moving parts that approach the egg shell. When eggs are forced to roll over a sensor, the sensor itself is fixed and is not moving. This makes the technology simpler but also more vulnerable to getting dirty since the sensitive equipment is mounted directly under the egg flow. Furthermore, the "rollover" effect depends on the speed of the machine and therefore is also influenced by starting and stopping.

And then there are systems using vision technology. Moba was the first to apply vision technology for detecting leakers

and remove them via an outlet very early in the process. Vision is ideal for detecting leakers and large cracks, but although systems are getting more and more sophisticated, finding hairline cracks is a challenge for this technology. Moba is actively pursuing the capabilities of vision technology, the difference is that fresh hairline cracks are often hardly visible to the human eye. Every person who works with eggs knows that you have to squeeze an egg a little in order to find hairlines when using a candling light. Here we find a big difference between online and offline situations.

When a hairline crack has existed for a while, it becomes more visible, but a newly created hairline crack is hard to find even for the human eye.

But when measured acoustically, a broken shell absorbs more energy, no matter if the crack is old or fresh. For that reason Moba is relying on the acoustical principle.

Multiple versions over time Finding the right technology was not immediately achievable. A problem to overcome is environmental noise; this should barely influence the shell response sound. Next is the fact that every egg is different in size and they need to be tapped at the ideal moment when passing the detector. Moba constructed three systems; the first two attempts turned out to be suboptimal before the third proved to be a real breakthrough.

One of the first attempts NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2019

EGG GRADING

used little motors to drive the probes. This was only used on a few machines and never considered a usable system as the noise created by the motors through the rigid mechanical construction did prevent clear data acquisition. This system could not outperform human candlers and therefore never made it to a commercial production. Despite this failure, the system provided great insights about signal behaviour and probe technology. The small metal ball used to create the tapping sound was embedded in silicon rubber and that in itself was usable technology.

The next development resulted in the first commercial version. By using vacuum pumps to drive the probes, a much clearer signal was obtained, resulting in a better detection rate. The same solution of the metal ball in silicon rubber was used as the active tapping element. Since the rubber membrane still prevents the metal ball from vibrating freely, the signalnoise ratio of this system was limited. It was clearly better than human candling but was still not able to detect more than approximately 70% of the cracks. It would have been easy to wonder why there would be the need for even better detection, given the system was already better than human NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2019

candlers. However, there is a simple rationale. With higher detection ratios within reach, batches of eggs could suddenly be processed that were impossible to grade before.

This was one of the contributing factors that enabled flocks to have longer laying periods. At the end of the laying period when shell quality becomes much lower, a higher detection ratio simply enables a packing station to meet the quality criteria of retail and/or legislation for a longer period of time. And this is direct profit. So, the industry wanted more.

Finally, the magnetic driven probes were developed, resulting in the best-performing system on the market today.

Since the tap of each individual probe is exactly controlled independent of the speed of the machine or the size of the egg, perfect data acquisition is possible. This technology is unsurpassed under control, for each signal is processed individually. In addition, the metal ball is no longer kept in a silicon membrane but is now held in place by a magnet. On a microscopic level it vibrates almost identically as it would in free air. The resulting signal is almost perfect and therefore high detection ratios of over 90% are within reach, making the equipment almost twice as accurate as a human candler.

Performance versus objectivity On the subject of specifications, in order to express the quality of a detector one should always look at the combination of detection ratio (what percentage of the cracks present are actually found by the detector) and the so-called false reject ratio (what percentage of the incoming good eggs are mistakenly identified as having cracks). A good balance for the industry is a detection rate of 90% with a false reject ratio of 0.3%, a typical operating value for Moba detectors. Sometimes customers want less detection and thus, as a side effect, lower false rejects. Of course, it is possible to down-tune the overall sensitivity of the detector, but a more sophisticated way to deal with this is to use software to arrange sensitivity according to the required product specifications.

Moba has developed software that is capable of setting quality per product. All this is happening while the incoming eggs are judged independently of the product quality settings. In this way the operator has the best of both worlds: solid constant monitoring of the flock in an objective way while at the same time retaining the ability to tune and tweak the quality of the outgoing products with high precision.

MOBA HAS DEVELOPED SOFTWARE THAT IS CAPABLE OF SETTING QUALITY PER PRODUCT. ALL THIS IS HAPPENING WHILE THE INCOMING EGGS ARE JUDGED INDEPENDENTLY OF THE PRODUCT QUALITY SETTINGS

For more information visit www.moba.net GULF AGRICULTURE

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US DAIRY FARM VISIT

LARSON ACRES: MILK MAKES FAMILY STRONGER AT LARSON ACRES, DAIRY FARMING IS ABOUT PRODUCING HIGH-QUALITY MILK. BUT IT'S ALSO MUCH MORE THAN THAT. IT IS ABOUT DOING WHAT'S RIGHT FOR THE FAMILIES IN COMMUNITY, ANIMALS AND THE ENVIRONMENT, WRITES M. MATT, MANAGING EDITOR OF GULF AGRICULTURE MAGAZINE AFTER VISITING LARSON ACRES WHERE SIX LARSON FAMILIES SPANNING FIVE GENERATIONS COMBINE THEIR INTERESTS, EFFORTS, AND ENTHUSIASM FOR FARMING TO OPERATE THE DAIRY BUSINESS IN THE TOWN OF MAGNOLIA, STATE OF WISCONSIN, USA.

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ver 90 years after Ed and Johanna Larson began farming in Magnolia Township, Don and Virginia carried on the tradition and bought the home farm in 1957.

Today, six Larson families are involved with the operation that has grown from humble beginnings to a dairy that milks 2,800 cows and farms more than 5,000 acres while supporting the local area and its environment.

Giving Back to Our Community From our family to yours, Larson Acres, Inc. is proud to provide our community and

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country with a safe and nutritious product - milk.

Together, 11 family members and 55 employees work to ship approximately 25,000 gallons of milk per day, 365 days a year.

“Our employees are the heart of our operation and are like part of our own family. Like a thread in the quilt of the community, our business depends on other businesses in the area to provide us with services and supplies including veterinary care, local co-ops, milk hauling, electrical service, plumbing and equipment repair, to name just a few”, explains Sandy Larson, owner of Larson Acres.

“We support our schools, churches and other area organizations through education, donations and service projects. In addition, we enjoy hosting tours of our family farm for neighbors, groups, day care children, students, other producers and international visitors”.

Protecting the Environment “With our advanced technologies, methods and systems, we protect the environment for our families, our community and future generations. We maintain our community's exceptional NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2019

US DAIRY FARM VISIT

environmental standards by employing many different methods, which include, Energy Preservation, Water Protection and Conservation, Land and Nutrient Management and Waste Management”.

“For example, in-floor heat is used to heat our parlors, offices, break rooms and shop, reducing the total amount of propane we use. Sand bedding is used for our cows, then washed and reused, to conserve this natural resource and save diesel fuel and emissions that would otherwise come from hauling loads of sand to our dairy every week”.

“The water used at our dairy is recycled several times. Water is first used to cool the milk as it is produced, and then is collected and used either as wash water or water for the cows to drink”.

“At Larson Acres, our manure storage structures are carefully engineered to protect ground and surface waters, and we inspect them regularly. The results of the inspections are reported to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources annually”.

“Working with a nutrient management planner and performing scheduled soil tests allows the appropriate nutrients to be applied to the Larson Acres fields that can utilize them. This reduces the risk of runoff and cuts down on the use of petroleum based fertilizer”.

“Waste and recycle containers are located around the dairy for the collection and disposal of waste and recyclable materials. We use teat scrubbers to effectively and reliably wash, disinfect, and dry the dairy cow's teats prior to milking, which eliminates the NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2019

need for paper or cloth towels”, she continues.

Respecting Our Animals “We know that nutritious diets, comfortable living conditions and proper medical care are all part of ensuring a healthy, happy herd. Healthy, happy cows produce the high-quality products your family enjoys”.

“The herd is fed a customized, mixed ration, formulated with help from a nutritionist to meet their specific needs. All feed for the herd is home grown, with the exception of select ingredients delivered weekly by the local co-op”.

“Our animals spend their time in areas where their comfort and ease of handling are top priorities. The entire adult herd is housed in free stall barns, which are equipped with cooling components, optimal air flow, time-controlled sprinklers, cross ventilation, and a protected environment.

We have dedicated areas where our staff veterinarian and herdsmen attend to the individual needs of our cows.

These areas include maternity, postpartum and hoof care”.

Larson Acres Facilities “Our facilities enhance cow comfort, protect the environment, and allow our family farm business to be sustainable well into the future.

These facilities include Cross ventilated and conventional free stall barns, Double-20 and Double-22 BouMatic milking parlors, Five nursery barns, Calf barn for 2- to 5-month-old calves, Special needs areas, Transition and dry cow area, Computerized I.D. monitoring system, McLanahan sand separators, and 7 feed bunkers and a feed storage pad”.

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MEDIA MISSION TO POLAND

POLAND'S AGRICULTURAL SECTOR IS VITAL FOR EUROPEAN AND GLOBAL MARKET

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ince the beginning of 2019, an upward trend in the export of agri-food commodities from Poland has been continued. The export value of agri-food commodities in the period of January-June 2019 amounted to EUR 15.4 billion and was by more than 8% higher than the year before. Also, the import was at a level of EUR 10.4 billion, by about 5% higher. As a result, the positive trade balance increased by around 17% to EUR 5.0 billion.

In order to familiarize with Polish vibrant agricultural sectors and the highest quality of Polish agri products, a group of journalists from around the globe were invited to participate a special Food and Beverage Media Mission to Poland organized by Polish National Support Centre for Agriculture (KOWR). The event was held during the International Trade Fair for Food Polagra Food 2019 in Poznan from 30th September to 3rd October 2019.

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Gulf Agriculture Magazine's Associate Editor Jessie Jorge was one among the few journalists selected to cover the event from the United Arab Emirates.

MAJOR COMPANIES VISITED DURING THE MEDIA MISSION The Slawkowo farm The Slawkowo farm is a family farm focused mainly on plant production. Cereals are grown on more than 1,000 ha of land, as well as rape, corn, potatoes, sugar beet and vegetables (onions, beetroot).

The current owners - Andrzej and Romuald Wisniewski (father and son) first, in 1994 leased a farm from the Agricultural Property Agency of the State Treasury over 500 ha to buy it in 2000 and start modernizing the plant so that both buildings and equipment could be adapted for modern NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2019

MEDIA MISSION TO POLAND

Europejskie Centrum Owocowe Sp. z o.o.

(E.C.O. Grupa) The Europejskie Centrum Owocowe Sp. z o.o.

(E.C.O. Grupa), is a fruit growers' group with a total orchard area of over 1,700 hectares of crops, and with more than 50,000 tonnes of annual production.

The group is one of the largest producers and distributors of fruit and vegetables in Poland.

E.C.O. Grupa cooperates with the largest retail chains and individual recipients in 11 foreign markets.

The group is located in the heart of Europe's largest apple-growing area, first-class technical support and many years of trading experience E.C.O. Grupa meets the highest quality standards.

E.C.O. Grupa has one of the biggest in Europe production lines for peeling and cutting apples with the capacity of 40.000 kg a day. The production process is supported by the professional management system and verified team of qualified workers.

methods of crop production and harvesting.

In subsequent years, the area of the farm more than doubled, hence further investments, mainly construction, to adapt warehouse space to the current area. Currently, the owners have at their disposal a modern storage room and a cold store for vegetables.

New warehouses, garages, workshop, etc. were built. They also have comprehensively equipped equipment and devices for soil cultivation, as well as plant care and harvesting, including grain harvester and vegetable harvester.

The owners are eager to cooperate with agricultural companies, including Bayer CropScience, Dalgety Agra Polska, Whbc Poznan, Agro-Sieci Sp. z o. o. Chemirol Sp. z o. o., conduct experimental plots, organize trainings and demonstrations. They closely cooperate with Nordzucker Polska SA - Plant in Chelmza, and thus, starting from 2011, every two years they coorganize Sugar Beet Day on their farm. In subsequent investments, they effectively used the tools of the Common Agricultural Policy - EU funds, so that at the moment the characteristic feature of the farm is modern buildings, equipment and what is worth emphasizing exemplary order.

NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2019

Kopernik The history of the Confectionery Factory "Kopernik" starts in 1751 by the gingerbread workshop and a family business producing Torunskie Pierniki set up by Gustav T. Weese. In the Interwar period, Kopernik was one of the largest companies in the whole of Pomerania.

Today, it is the largest gingerbread producer in the country and one of the largest confectionery companies.

Torunskie PiernikiÂŽ is a unique product manufactured only in the Confectionery Factory "Kopernik". Strictly guarded, traditional recipes (the technique of dough kneading, a rich mixture of natural spices) make it an exceptional product whose tradition has been continued for over 700 years in town.

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MEDIA MISSION TO POLAND

Katarzynki® is the most recognizable shape of Torunski Piernik®. Katarzynki®'s unique taste is the result of using the largest amount of spices and specially kneaded, fat-free dough.

Wafel Teatralny® (Theatrical Wafer) has been produced in the Confectionery Factory "Kopernik" for over 60 years, achieving cult status. Its secret lies in the extraordinary, crunchy wafer leaf, which is strictly guarded recipe (that has not changed since its beginnings). Adored by generations, now it is available in three flavours classic nut, chocolate and lemon.

The factory is also famous for manufacturing very crisp and light wafer leaf. Wafers produced in the Confectionery Factory "Kopernik" have been enjoying unflagging popularity for decades.

Drobex Drobex Company based in Solec Kujawski has been known for past 30 years in food industry as one of the leading manufacturers of pristine quality poultry meat and its derivatives.

The history of Drobex goes back to 1963 when four Frischke brothers began farming broiler chickens. In 1987, they launched an abattoir under the name of P.D. Drobex. Gradual growth and expansion of product range offered by the business resulted in creation of vertically integrated consortium of companies under one common name Drobex.

This family business is currently one of the leaders of the Polish and EU market.

Products manufactured by Drobex are very popular amongst consumers and are available through the largest retail chains in the country.

They are available in KFC Restaurants both in Poland and Western Europe.

Drobex Group consists of closely integrated businesses focusing on production of hatching eggs, chicks, compound feeds, broiler fattening, slaughtering, cured meat production, meat packaging, and distribution of fresh or frozen chicken meat. Due to structure of business we remain in full control of quality and have capacity to trace each batch of product indulged by the consumer.

The prime objective of Drobex is to manufacture safe, healthy and tasty food, fulfilling the needs of consumers.

twenty largest raw milk processors in Europe. In 2018, Mlekpol has exceeded the purchase limit of 1.83 billion litres of milk. This is an average of over 5 million litres of milk a day from nearly 9500 producers. More than 30% of SM MLEKPOL's products is exported to Europe, Africa, Asia, South America and the Middle East.

MLEKPOL products are produced in 12 modern and exceptionally specialised production plants. SM Mlekpol's offer includes pasteurized and UHT milk, various kinds of cream, fermented beverages, butter, cottage cheese, cream cheese and yellow cheese. In its extended portfolio there are such flagship brands as: Laciate, Milko, Biale, Mazurski Smak, Rolmlecz or Maslanka Mragowska.

Laciate is the most recognized brand of milk in Poland. The brand was established in 1995 and immediately gained consumer recognition. It has the first shelf-stable milk (UHT) in Poland - still the leading one in this category. Laciate products are made of the highest quality raw material from cows grazed on the cleanest Polish meadows. Laciate is synonymous with naturalness, freshness and top quality.

Due to the growing demand for UHT milk export beyond the European market, MLEKPOL creates new brands with their image and descriptions tailored to the needs of individual markets. Less than 2 years ago, a new product milk branded as Milcasa was created. This unique milk created with passion not only has become increasingly popular but its merchandising has been growing dynamically, e.g. in China. As all Mlekpol products, it is produced in the purest region of Poland - in Masuria, Warmia and Podlasie - the areas that are called "green lungs of Poland". Its unusual and mild taste has been developed in stateof-the-art production facilities, in line with global standards for production, cleanliness and safety.

Milcasa is a highly valued brand by foreign buyers already in 60 countries around the world.

Mlekpol Spóldzielnia Mleczarska Mlekpol is the biggest producer of milk and dairy products in Poland.

For years, the company has been an undisputed leader in the Polish dairy industry and one of the 44

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NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2019

MEDIA MISSION TO POLAND

TASTE-ORIENTED POLAGRA ATTRACTS OVER FIFTY THOUSAND VISITORS

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n Thursday, 3 October 2019, the largest HoReCa business event in Central and Eastern Europe officially ended at the MTP fairgrounds. The combined POLAGRA and TAROPAK fair, together with Tastes of Regions that started two days earlier, were visited by over 50 thousand of visitors. 800 exhibitors from 30 countries presented their offer at the Fair.

POLAGRA FOOD is mainly an annual summary of achievements of Polish providing products that meet the expectations of modern consumers. The exhibition was dominated by the dairy sector, which provides products for a significant part of Polish society and which increasingly expands its activities to abroad markets.

According to the latest data, the export of dairy products increased in the first quarter by 3.3% to 1.13 billion litres of raw milk.

The growth was generated by sale of milk, yogurts and other milk drinks, as well as cream and ice cream. Polish dairy products are appreciated for their high quality. This is confirmed by many MTP Gold Medals awarded to dairy products such as bio butter, ripened cheese or cream.

A significant part of POLAGRA FOOD exhibition consisted of "Polish Meat" stand, managed by the Association of Polish Butchers and Producers of Processed Meat. It offered various brands of meat products manufactured by the Polish companies. The meat offer was complemented by the Forum of Butchery, Meat Processing and Cookery.

The expert group discussed the nutritional qualities of meat and its important role in the human diet. Master chefs advertised the products by offering their specialties.

POLAGRA FOOD hosted also exhibitors producing sweets, salty snacks, fruit and vegetable dishes, ready-to-eat products, coffee, tea and other beverages. The group included both Polish and foreign producers, including companies from Italy, Hungary, Romania, Indonesia, Germany, France and Croatia.

The entire event consisted of POLAGRA FOOD (International Trade Fair for Food), NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2019

POLAGRA-TECH (International Trade Fair of Food Technologies) and POLAGRA GASTRO AND INVEST HOTEL (International Fair for Food, Catering Products and Hotel Equipment). At the same time, visitors could see the offer presented at TAROPAK (International Trade Fair for Packaging and Labelling Technology). These exhibitions took over the entire area of the Poznan International Fair and presented the visitors with a look into the future of the food industry.

Next year's edition of the fair will take place from September 28 to October 1.

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MEDIA MISSION TO POLAND

InHort: PROMOTING EXCELLENCE IN POLISH HORTICULTURE

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oland is an important producer of fruits. It produces yearly over 4 million tons of 12 fruit species, among them 3.5 million tons apples, and over 600 thousand tons of soft fruits. Nearly one million tons of apples is exported. The rest is consumed in the country and processed to concentrated juice and exported. About 60% of soft fruits are frozen and also exported. Concerning export of processed fruit, Poland plays unique role in Europe.

Production is done mainly in

MORE THAN 200 NEW VARIETIES OF FRUIT PLANTS AND VEGETABLES HAVE BEEN GROWN AT THE RESEARCH INSTITUTE OF HORTICULTURE (INHORT) IN SKIERNIEWICE

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small farms situated among natural environment thus the fruits are free from admixture and healthy.

The main scientific centre developing innovative directions in fruit production in Poland is Research Institute of Horticulture at Skierniewice near Warsaw. Its research programme covers all areas related to fruit, vegetable, ornamental plant and bee sciences, from basic studies on physiology, biochemistry and molecular biology, through biotechnology, creative

breeding, protection of genetic resources, agronomy, plant pathology, fruit and vegetable storage and processing, food safety, horticultural engineering, economics and marketing.

Its research programme covers all areas related to fruit, vegetable, ornamental plant and bee sciences, from basic studies on physiology, biochemistry and molecular biology, through biotechnology, creative breeding, protection of genetic resources, agronomy, plant pathology, fruit and vegetable storage and processing, food

MEDIA MISSION TO POLAND

safety, horticultural engineering, economics and marketing. Since all of the fruit and many vegetable plants are entomophilous and require bees for pollination, bee science was also included in the Institute's programme.

According to Prof.

Ryszard Holownicki, more than 200 new varieties of fruit plants and vegetables have been grown at the Research Institute of Horticulture (INHORT) in Skierniewice. Approx. 7 percent of apple varieties in Polish orchards, 40-50 percent of cabbage, onions and peppers and more than 70 percent of raspberry varieties are the varieties obtained at the Institute.

The Institute also takes part in several governmental research programmes on food safety, integrated and organic fruit and vegetable production, protection of genetic resources and in campaigns aimed at changing nutritional habits of the Polish consumers toward increased consumption of fruits and vegetables. Due to active extension and implementation programmes and close cooperation with major stakeholders, the Institute has contributed in a large extent to the development of horticultural production in Poland.

Besides research, the NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2019

Institute is also involved in commercial activities, especially in food analysis.

Several Institute's laboratories has ISO/IEC 17025 and/or GLP certificates and perform analysis (pesticide residues, heavy metals, nitrites and nitrates and mycotoxins) for food producers and wholesalers. It is estimated that Institute's laboratories have 50% share of commercial food analysis market in Poland.

The Institute actively participates in building European Research Area.

Cooperative links have been established with most of the horticultural research centres and clusters in Europe and several joint research project, co-financed by European Commission and other international organisations, were initiated. At present, the Institute is involved in four projects within 7th Framework Programme and in several others within Central European, LIFE and COST programmes and in bilateral projects financed by respective governments within agreements on cooperation in science and technology. Besides, the Institute is an active member of the European Fruit Research Institutes Network (EUFRIN).

In Poland, the Institute is a coordinator of Centre of Advanced Technologies “AgroTech”, which is a cluster of three universities, two R&D Institutes and four commercial enterprises aiming at developing and implementing innovative technologies in Polish agri-food industry and of a network “Agroengineering for sustainable development of agri-food industry and rural areas”. It is also a founding member of Polish Food Technology Platform.

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