Farming Scotland Magazine (January - February 2023 Issue)

editor's bit

Striking times!

Thank goodness farmers don’t go on strike, because I like to eat.

Not that the UK Government is doing anyone any favours with their Global Britain garbage and delusional post Brexit deals brokered and celebrated by the intellectually challenged and former nutter PM, Liz Truss.

Bring back Boris?...Nah, only joking. If only it was that funny.

But it is not.

The agricultural industry needs to be represented by grown-ups who know the industry from the inside, not the wealthy and subsidised clowns who masquerade as leaders of the free world and of ‘so called’ British values on a global stage, while not realising that they are being laughed at behind their backs.

Brexit was sold on a media supported lie, the current global deals are not new but often repackaged and as such, ‘lies’ has become the political norm in the UK, and this effects farming in so many ways.

Spanish potatoes labelled as British with the Union Flag (not jack) is just one stupid example of the normalisation of lies.

Truth is important to any industry and agriculture is no different.

We must fight for the real recognition of home grown produce so that consumers can knowingly support our own armers.

Not to do so, will kill the industry slowly by a thousand cuts with cheaper imports, and the public will not be aware.

The time is now to stand up for our farmers throughout all the nations of the British Isles.

Get it? – Good!

Now that that is my inner ‘Che Guevara’ fully exorcised, where is my bank card, I have an energy bill to pay with my spilled blood.

Happy new year folks!

Slàinte, Athole

arable & root crops

Stimulating advice for spring barley

Good demand as Scottish malting capacity increases, coupled with relatively low growing costs, mean there is a lot to play for with spring malting barley.

That is the message to Scottish growers from Alistair Gordon, regional technical manager for ProCam’s Turriffbased and Invergordon-based Robertson Crop Services division.

“With decent spring barley yields of around 7.5 t/ha now regularly achieved in our area, and the crop’s nitrogen fertiliser requirement running at about half that of winter wheat, spring barley offers good financial potential,” says Alistair.

“However, with bigger weather events now increasingly common – including deluges but also dry periods where rainfall can’t be guaranteed when needed – setting up spring barley crops so they produce well-developed root structures has become much more important.

“Without good root structures there is a bigger risk that spring barley, which is a delicate crop to begin with, will suffer drought stress and a yield impact if it turns dry. Also, stressed crops are more susceptible to Ramularia.

“Good seedbeds are clearly the starting point to aid rooting – we don’t want a seedbed

that’s too compacted for roots to penetrate or too rough for rapid crop establishment. But another technique that’s really gaining momentum is proactively feeding spring barley early with a biostimulant which combines a seaweed extract plus trace elements.”

By using this approach in 2022 to build root structures

early, Alistair says he is convinced that, by the time the dry weather arrived last season, treated crops were already more robust and so better able to tolerate the conditions.

Alternatively, where spring barley crops are thin and need a tillering boost, he says he has seen success with a different biostimulant – Zodiac.

International Barley Hub Field Centre opened in Invergowrie

The International Barley Hub Field Centre at the James Hutton Institute was officially opened in December by UK Government Minister for Scotland, Malcolm Offord.

The £62 million International Barley Hub (IBH), comprised of several developments including the Field Centre, has been funded through the Tay Cities Deal Partnership and marks a major

milestone in establishing Scotland as a leader in global food security and crop resilience.

Barley is the most predominant crop grown in Scotland, and supports 40,000

Alistair Gordon

arable & root crops

jobs north of the UK border, largely due to its key role in the worldrenowned Scottish whisky industry.

Demand for the crop has grown in recent years, due to £2bn of investment in national distillery infrastructure, growth in the craft beer sector and increased whisky sales. However, research from the James Hutton Institute has found it is becoming increasingly difficult to meet this demand, due to adverse weather conditions reducing barley yields, changes in pesticide bans and crop management challenges.

The IBH will promote scientific discovery and innovation to tackle these issues, as well as piloting new technologies for crop management, such as precision agriculture sensors and drones.

Investment in the IBH is also expected to generate over £105m benefit to the UK over the next 30 years, nearly £60m of which will be in Scotland. It will also generate 1,281 full-time jobs in Scotland, increasing to 1,838 FTE jobs in the UK after 10 years.

Technical fertilisers can help grow more from less this spring

Farmers are being urged to choose fertiliser products wisely for upcoming spring nitrogen applications – to maximise yields with less inputs.

David Newton, Timac Agro technical manager, says farmers are looking for opportunities to make their inputs go further for longer and one of the best ways

to stretch nitrogen applications is by using fertiliser with added stimulant technology.

“To make crops more efficient, farmers need to increase the rate

at which the plant is metabolising nitrogen into protein,” Mr Newton explains.

“With high nitrate availability, a plant will try to

arable & root crops

take up as much nitrogen as it can, before attempting to store the excess. However, plants that do this tend to be wetter in composition and are more attractive to pests and diseases –which farmers don’t want”.

To address this problem, Mr Newton recommends choosing a nitrogen-based fertiliser formulated with biostimulant technology, such as Sulfammo 23 N-Process, which contains N-Process nitrogen and sulphur.

This biostimulant technology stimulates the plant genes that control nitrogen uptake, transportation, and conversion

to protein – this makes the plant hungrier for the nutrient, while also enabling it to metabolise it more quickly.

“Developed at our research facility, this unique mode of action allows the plant to handle more nitrogen to convert it into amino acids and protein which improves crop quality,” adds Mr Newton.

“Not only does this help the plant’s nitrogen use efficiency in the short term, but this stimulation lasts in the plant for up to three months after a fertiliser has been used, increasing the efficiency of subsequent (conventional) N applications”

Yara to provide their nitrogen management tools free of charge

Yara has announced plans to make their industry-leading service - the Atfarm platform – completely free of charge for this coming season. The announcement comes after feedback from farms using the technology this last season and the improvements they’ve seen in N-use efficiency and in light of the challenges currently faced by farmers.

“With the removal of the subscription fee, we encourage farmers to take full advantage of Yara’s nitrogen fertilizer portfolio - by making use of the digital tools, they can save on fertilizer costs without

David Newton

compromising yield and quality, while at the same time benefitting the environment,” says Jari Pentinmaki, Managing Director of Yara UK.

The NFU welcomed the news. Commenting at CropTec, Matt Culley, NFU Chair of the Combinable Crops Board said, “We welcome the news from Yara, raising nitrogen use efficiency on farms is a win win. Farmers need to buy less fertilizer, crops perform better and in comparison, to other decisions farmers might face its a relatively simple step to take. The fact that it also contributes to a lower carbon footprint is something that will inevitably gain in importance as carbon markets and supply chains adjust”.

Mark Tucker explains that “Yara’s digital Atfarm platform helps farmers apply nitrogen more precisely. Utilising satellite images to monitor crop growth, farmers and agronomists can create variable rate application maps in just minutes. Farms are also able to use the N Tester BT to get field specific nitrogen recommendations for their cereal crops, as well as monitoring the leaves nitrogen status as the spring growth progress.”

“Nutrient Use Efficiency is an NFU priority, and we’d like to work with Yara and others on a series of webinars and workshops we’ll be putting on over the coming months,” adds Mr Culley. “Everyone is welcome no matter what stage you are at, so look out for these.”

“We want to do everything we can to support UK farmers,” adds Jari. “We hope that by encouraging farmers to explore the smart tools available to them, it will bring both financial and environmental benefits.”

Barley Hub opens at James Hutton Institute

By Robbie Waugh, Director of the International Barley Hub

Barley is the predominant crop grown in Scotland, and directly or indirectly supports some 40,000 jobs north of the UK border, largely due to it underpinning the worldrenowned Scotch whisky industry.

Demand for the crop has grown in recent years, thanks to £2bn of investment in national distillery infrastructure, growth in the craft beer sector and increased whisky sales. However, research from the James Hutton Institute has found it is becoming increasingly difficult to meet this demand locally due to adverse weather conditions reducing barley yields or quality, regulatory changes restricting use of certain agrochemicals and challenges in crop management particularly in relation to the push for more sustainable production methodologies.

To tackle these issues, £62 million (£45 million from the UK Government and £17 million

from the Scottish Government as part of the Tay Cities Region Deal) has been invested at the JHI campus to build the International Barley Hub (IBH) and Advanced Plant Growth Centre (APGC).

In December, we opened the International Barley Hub Field Centre, which will promote the translation of scientific discoveries into practical impacts, and pilot new technologies for crop management including agricultural sensors, in-field robotics and drones.

The IBH building, delivered by Wellwood Leslie Architects and construction business McLaughlin & Harvey, will integrate key sustainability technologies, such as:

• generating hot water, heating and cooling via air source heat pumps;

• using low-energy LED lighting along with daylight dimming and infrared controls;

• providing natural ventilation

where possible and heat recovery on mechanical systems;

• reducing employee exposure to airborne contaminants (dust, fumes, etc) through the installation of Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) systems

The IBH aims to enhance the production of premium quality barley by focusing on the whole barley supply and value chain, delivering a step change in barley research capability with modern facilities and state of the art equipment. Securing resilience of the barley supply and value chain is critical to the continued success of our global food and drink businesses, and particularly for the whisky industry here in Scotland.

The James Hutton Institute is a world-leading scientific research organisation working to resolve global challenges in food, climate, energy and water security. The Institute works in partnership with people, organisations and governments to enhance sustainable environmental, social and economic development to deliver practical solutions for our shared future. www.hutton.ac.uk

arable & root crops

Tong demonstrated a new vision for labour efficiencies

Tong Engineering demonstrated its latest handling equipment advances that focus on overcoming post-harvest labour challenges, at the UK’s largest agricultural machinery show, LAMMA this month.

“Reducing costs and maximising efficiencies are

a priority for everyone right now, and there’s no doubt that vegetable growers and producers faced a common set of challenges throughout the 2022 harvest season,” says Charlie Rich, Sales Director at Tong Engineering. “The industry has experienced difficulties in sourcing reliable

labour to effectively grade and sort crop. Likewise, minimising crop mileage and associated costs has been more important than ever.”

“As vegetable handling equipment specialists, we are continuously developing our equipment to overcome these

challenges with automated and efficient solutions,” explains Charlie. “A number of our new product developments have really come into their own during harvest. In particular, the FieldLoad PRO and our industry leading Caretaker mobile grader have proved very popular once

again, with the latest technologies in automation and optical sorting options being key drivers for equipment upgrades. We have manufactured several Caretakers with integrated optical sorting facilities and this option is now available on the latest models of the FieldLoad PRO too.”

With record sales of the FieldLoad PRO in 2022 destined for UK vegetable growers as well as overseas producers as far as Australia and Canada, the increasingly renowned fieldloader from Tong has proved a game-changer in effectively cleaning and loading crop in the field, straight from the harvester. This results in a much more streamlined postharvest handling process, requiring fewer operators and no unnecessary carting of soil as all soil and debris is left in the field. The FieldLoad PRO with Tong’s EasyClean separator is a particularly popular specification for unrivalled cleaning in all conditions.

Successful potato crops start with the right products and the right timings

What do the latest potatogrowing trials tell us about how to ensure good quality, highyield harvests?

“This year we’ve used traditional demonstration plots,” states Oscar Thacker, Area Manager for Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire,” but we’ve also expanded out to field-scale trials. As well as reducing variability, field trials provide that vital knowledge exchange between Yara and our customers.”

Jim Smith and Auctioneers Urge Farmers to #KeepTalking

RSABI, the charity supporting people in Scottish agriculture, has launched its winter 2022 #KeepTalking campaign –encouraging farmers and crofters to reconnect with friends, neighbours, relatives and others who might feel isolated, and to get together during the winter months.

Perthshire farmer and comedian Jim Smith is once again fronting the campaign, with auctioneers throughout Scotland also on board.

“Our message is for everyone to #KeepTalking as the nights become darker and longer and, in particular, to think about getting in touch with people of all ages in their communities who may be more vulnerable to loneliness and isolation this winter,” said Carol McLaren, Chief Executive, RSABI.

“This time of year is traditionally a tough time for farming folk, with mud and cold to contend with and fewer events and opportunities to catch up. And this year, with the additional pressure of cost-of-living worries and general uncertainty, we are particularly keen that people in the agricultural community feel as supported as possible,” she said.

“We can all get a bit down at this time of year and this is a fantastic initiative by RSABI to encourage people

to reconnect. We are all busy but this initiative encourages us all to stop and take the time to think about others,” said Jim Smith, ambassador of this winter’s #KeepTalking campaign.

“Just having a decent blether and getting things off your chest can make a huge

difference to how well you can cope with the pressures of life and work. Kindness is so important and just the smallest acts of kindness can make such a difference to the person on the receiving end,” said Mr Smith who is currently on tour with a string of comedy nights taking place around Scotland.

RSABI’s freephone Helpline - 0808 1234 555 - is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and calls won’t show up on phone bills and a confidential webchat service is also available at www.rsabi.org.uk.

www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

arable & root crops

Oscar’s work has involved trials on two products, and the initial findings give plenty of insight to growers.

Tropicote: soluble = success “Adding lime to get the right soil pH right is indeed crucial,” Oscar begins. “But because lime is calcium carbonate, there’s a belief that it provides a lot of calcium for the potato crop. However, you’d need 66,000 litres of water to dissolve 1 kilogram of calcium carbonate, so it’s a long time before lime becomes plant-available.”

“But YaraLiva Tropicote –which is calcium nitrate – only requires 1 litre of water to dissolve 1 kilogram. It’s very soluble, which is exactly what’s needed, certainly at tuber initiation.”

So how has Tropicote performed in this year’s trials? “There’s an improved skin finish, enabling a better pack-out when it comes to selling those potatoes on.”

“The trial data reaffirms Tropicote’s place in the market, both in terms of internal defects and in terms of skin finish details,” Oscar concludes

Magphos K: timing’s everything Also being put through its paces this year is YaraVita Magphos K. “It provides the crop the magnesium, phosphate and potash that the crop needs,” Oscar says. “Plus it’s in a highly available phosphoric acid form, which is up to ten times more available than any soil-applied phosphorus.”

The beauty of Magphos, Oscar emphasises, is in its ability to work towards specific crop aims just by tweaking the timing. “Applying it at tuber initiation gives increased tuber number, which is perfect for a seed or salad crop, or we can apply it at a later stage for tuber bulking, for the more typical ware crop.”

New Nemathorin Granupac aids efficient potato planting

New packaging for Nemathorin nematicide granules has been designed to make handling and use cleaner and more efficient during the busy potato planting season.

The new Granupac features ergonomically moulded handles that will make filling hoppers mounted on potato cultivation and bed forming equipment easier for operators. The more robust design also eliminates stacking rings that were vulnerable to damage on the existing Nemathorin Surefills.

Syngenta Customer Technical Adviser, Caroline Linsdell, highlighted growers will start to see the Granupac introduced on farm during the 2023 planting season, although some Nemathorin Surefills may also be initially supplied.

“The Granupac is fully compatible with the adaptors fitted to virtually all machines using existing Nemathorin Surefills, with no modification required,” she advised.

“This significant investment in the new packaging reinforces the ongoing commitment to Nemathorin availability for

growers over the coming years, as well as the long-term safe and responsible stewardship of the product,” reported Caroline.

The Granupac has been extremely well received in trials by growers, operators and the Nemathorin distribution chain.

“Growers commented on the ease of opening the new Granupac using a ring pull, with no need for pliers to cut cable ties. They could also see the flow of the product through the container as it was emptying, which was also a positive for them. It is a far more robust pack for Nemathorin fror future seasons,” she added.

Each Granupac has been designed for up to six seasons of collection and refilling, to minimise packaging waste and carbon footprint for growers. Caroline highlighted that the pack’s base will be a different colour each year that will enable packs to be rotated and replaced accordingly during the product manufacturing process, but that it has no implications for use on farm; the colour of the base relates to the shelf life of the Granupac and not the product itself.

Scottish distillery launches exclusive cask ownership for whisky connoisseurs

Award-winning Eden Mill Distillery is offering single malt enthusiasts the exclusive opportunity to invest in a unique part of Scottish history, as the distillery resumes single malt production with the opening of the new site on the banks of the Eden Estuary in St Andrews.

Enthusiasts are being invited to join The 1655 Club and invest in one of 300 unique and carefully selected casks, which will hold the first spirit to flow from the stills when the new distillery becomes operational in 2023. The 1655 Club casks will be stored in The Distiller’s Vault, a private sanctuary within the distillery itself, which will be available to view by investors.

The 1655 Club is a tribute to Robert Haig of Throsk, a 17th century distiller, who was summoned before the Kirk session in 1655, for the crime of distilling on the Sabbath.

By the mid-1800s, the site on the banks of the Eden Estuary, was home to Seggie Distillery

which closed its doors in the mid1800s, producing paper instead. One hundred and fifty years later, in 2012, Eden Mill revived St Andrews’ distilling prowess, opening Scotland’s first single-site brewery and distillery.

Each investor’s cask will remain under the watchful eye of head distiller, Scott Ferguson, and his team, through its maturation, with the contents being reviewed every year to evaluate the liquid. Investors will receive guidance and advice on their individual cask, as well as the opportunity to visit The Distiller’s Vault, deep in Eden Mill distillery St Andrews, to check on progress.

“At Eden Mill, we pride ourselves on what we call our ‘Cask Mastery’”, says Scott. “We continually experiment with hundreds of different casks of the highest quality to create innovative and exciting single malts, narrowing down until we find perfection.

“The two casks we have chosen for The 1655 Club, an American ex-Bourbon cask and

a European ex-sherry cask, will provide a myriad of flavours, each drawn slowly from the cask over time as it rests and matures in the Vault.”

Matthew Turner, Eden Mill marketing director is thrilled to welcome whisky enthusiasts and investors. “The 1655 Club is a very rare opportunity and we are delighted to be able to open our doors and welcome those who have supported us this far, as well as new faces.”

Investment options in The 1655 Club start from £5,000, with finance options available. This includes exclusive ownership of one of the 300 casks, storage and insurance for 10 years from the date of filling, an annual VIP visit to the distillery, discounts on selected Eden Mill products and priority access to future releases.

More information can be found on the website www.edenmill. com

Glasgow Michelin Star Chef opts for Highland Fine Cheeses to dominate his restaurant’s cheeseboard

Highland Fine Cheeses, maker of iconic brands such as Caboc and Strathdon Blue, has been chosen by Glasgow Michelin Star chef, Graeme Cheevers, to dominate the cheeseboard at his

fine dining restaurant, Unalome by Graeme Cheevers, in the city’s Finnieston area.

Other award-winning cheeses produced by the Tain-based company include Morangie Brie,

now available in certain M&S food halls, Blue Murder, a bold, strongly flavoured cheese made with Highland cows’ milk, and Fat Cow, a Gruyere-style semi hard, washed rind cheese with

a strong meaty aroma, delicate sweet flavour, and smooth texture.

Mr Cheevers, who won a Michelin Star for the third time this year, and just eight months

after opening his own restaurant, Unalome by Graeme Cheevers, said: “we work with the best of Scottish food suppliers and providers to provide our customers with an outstanding dining experience.

“In choosing to work with Highland Fine Cheeses in the provision of most of the cheeses you will find on our cheeseboard, we are, of course, endorsing the care and attention to detail that its owner Rory Stone and his team in Tain, invest in all their products.”

Highland Fine Cheeses owner, Rory Stone, whose parents established the company in the 1950s, said: “our cheeses are regular award winners at the International Cheese and Dairy

Awards and the Global Cheese Awards.

“We have been developing them over the past few years, and it is a huge tribute to our team here in Ross-shire, that they have appealed to the palates of two highly sophisticated judging panels.

“On behalf of everyone at Highland Fine Cheeses, I have to say that I am delighted that Graeme and his team have put their trust in the quality of our cheeses and are making them available to the discerning visitors of his outstanding and highly successful restaurant in Glasgow.

“Long may he continue to do so, and long may we continue to expand the range of people who enjoy our hand-crafted produce.”

Scotland The Brand

Brexit Legislation Threatens Scottish Standards

By Ruth Watson

The ‘Retained EU Law (Revocation and Reform) Bill’ is making its way through Westminster. The Bill states it ‘will sunset the majority of retained EU law so that it expires on 31st December 2023. All retained EU law contained in domestic secondary legislation and retained direct EU legislation will expire on this date, unless otherwise preserved.’ 570 of those pieces of legislation relate to food, the environment, and agriculture, such as pesticides in fruit and vegetables, or the dreaded chlorinated chicken.

This is causing serious concern in the Scottish agencies which work to keep our food and drink safe. Geoff Ogle is the Chief Executive of Food Standards Scotland.

“If the standards are removed, especially without being discussed, or without strong food laws brought into replace them, then we have a real problem,” he says. “If the laws are ‘sunsetted’, businesses might suffer unintended consequences. Most food law is not ‘red tape’ but has come about through experience and science. If the standards are removed,

especially without being discussed or having strong food laws brought in to replace them, then we have a real problem.”

Clause 15(5) of the UK Government’s Bill states explicitly that replacement legislation can only keep standards the same or lower than they currently are; and the ‘Internal Market Act’ means Scotland’s laws could be over-ruled.

Food and Drink Federation Scotland’s Chief Executive Officer, David Thomson, says, “Scotland produces high quality, tasty and safe food and drink that millions love to eat, both here and abroad. For the benefit of producers and consumers it is essential that governments across the UK ensure any changes to regulations don’t negatively impact on our food safety or undermine our access to valuable export markets.”

The food and drink sector is crucial to Scotland’s people and to our economy. We must act to secure a solid future for our farmers.

Ruth Watson is the founder of the Keep Scotland the Brand campaign.

Waterford

Distillery, the world’s biggest producer of biodynamic and organic Whisky is crowned ‘Brand Innovator of the Year’, in The Whisky Magazine’s Icons of Whisky 2023

For the third year running, Waterford Distillery was recently announced Brand Innovator of the Year as a result of new product launches including the first truly Irish peated whiskies in generations, as well as a resurrection of long-forgotten barley varieties, not used in production since 1970s to create its latest release, Heritage Hunter.

With sustainability credentials and a clear commitment to Irish barley at the core of Waterford’s

production, they also took the crown for Campaign Innovator of the Year due to their partnership with renowned French chef, Grégory Marchand to create a new biodynamic bottling, ‘Frenchie’. Waterford was also highly commanded for Distiller of the Year after winning in 2021 and 2022.

From bartenders to distillers, the Icons of Whisky awards honour those who have worked tirelessly for the growth of the industry.

Six of the best foods to eat before bed to keep you warm this winter

With the weather growing colder for the foreseeable, it can become a challenge to warm up at bedtime – but given the current rise of energy costs, many will be reluctant to turn on the heating.

However, sleep experts Bed Kingdom have highlighted six of the best foods to have as a latenight snack that will naturally heat up your body as well as induce sleep.

Nuts

Having nuts before bed, such as peanuts, almonds, and pistachios, can increase the speed of your metabolism and raise your body heat, therefore warming you up for bed. As well as this, these nuts contain melatonin, a natural hormone that helps to control

your sleep cycle and therefore helps you get some shut eye.

Cinnamon

It’s no coincidence that cinnamon is associated with winter – thanks to its thermogenic properties that increase our body’s heat when it’s cold, it’s perfect to consume before bed. Having a sprinkle of cinnamon in a glass of milk at night-time won’t just heat you up, but due to the tryptophan in milk which induces sleep you’ll also find it easier to rest.

Oats

Oats may be something that you would normally have at the start of the day, but they have several benefits that prove useful for bedtime. They are slow to break down in your body due to being

high in bran and fibre, and this slow digestion releases warming energy. Plus, this food also contains melatonin to improve your sleep.

Bananas

Filled with vitamin B and magnesium, bananas help with the functioning of your thyroid and adrenal glands, thus regulating your body temperature in the cold weather. In fact, the high levels of magnesium don’t just keep you warm, but they also help your muscles to relax and calm your body to ensure you get to sleep easily.

Ginger

Ginger is another excellent food you can consume to warm you

up before you catch some Zs. With the vasodilating properties in ginger, your blood vessels are relaxed which contributes to an increased blood flow helping your body to heat up. Opt for a ginger tea – and if you’re suffering from a stuffy nose due to the weather, this will ease that to help you sleep better.

Carrots

Being a root vegetable, carrots cause your body to heat up due to the necessity for more energy during digestion. And while some vegetables may not be the best thing to consume before you try to get some shut eye, carrots are one of the vegetables that will promote sleep as they contain the alpha-carotene nutrient as well as potassium.

Liver Stroganoff

By Wendy Barrie

As a student I recall a Leith butcher who exclusively sold offal. Gone are the days but it’s time for a renaissance. With a shorter shelf life, these meats would have been the first to be eaten, or indeed preserved as black pudding or haggis. They are nutrient dense, delicious and often very good value for money. Scots used many thrifty habits to great effect and what better time to resurrect them than in a recession? For example, using meat bones to create fabulous stocks for risotto, stroganoff, stovies and soups. Another stumbling block for offal is the lack of regional abattoirs: as the number of small slaughterhouses decreases, so does the likelihood of buying local offal products. Today’s recipe is using totally local produce (apart from pepper) for my tasty take on an eastern European dish: Liver and mutton stock from Ardoch Hebridean Sheep, our garden leeks, Fife salt from East Neuk Salt co, Summer Harvest rapeseed oil from Crieff and bere berries from Orkney. Even the mushrooms were gathered by a friend and dried as a gift.

Ingredients:

250g liver

Flour for dusting

A drizzle of rapeseed oil 25g butter

1 large onion Salt & milled pepper

Method:

100mls cream

150mls mutton stock

A handful of dried chanterelles/160g fresh mushrooms, cleaned and sliced

For bere: 100g bere berries (or pearl barley);1 small leek/spring onion, cleaned & sliced finely; seasoning; approx 450mls mutton stock

• Prepare barley by soaking in a bowl with sufficient boiling water to cover the grains for a minimum of 1 hour.

• Prepare dried mushrooms as above but with less water as this will be saved and added along with stock.

• Prepare liver by slicing into strips and dusting with seasoned plain flour.

• When the bere is pre-soaked, drain and place in a pan along with stock and seasoning. Bring to boil and simmer for 45 minutes until tender. Add finely sliced leek for the remaining 20 minutes of cooking time and start cooking the liver. All the stock should be absorbed however check that it doesn’t dry out completely. Add a little hot water if required to keep it moist.

• Pre-heat a pan or wok with a drizzle of rapeseed oil and the knob of butter and gently cook onion and mushrooms (fresh or re-hydrated) over a medium heat until golden. Remove from pan to prevent them burning and add in liver. Increase heat and sauté for 10 minutes, depending on the size of your strips. Turn to brown on both sides. We prefer ours fully cooked but some like a hint of pink remaining. Season.

• Return onion and mushrooms to pan along with a ladle-full of stock, combine, simmer and reduce a little. Swirl in cream, warm through and serve with spoonfuls of bere.

Makes 2 generous portions

Wendy Barrie is a cook, food writer & campaigner for local sustainable food. Founder & Director of award-winning www.scottishfoodguide.scot & www.scottishcheesetrail.com Wendy is Leader in Scotland for Slow Food Ark of Taste, a Cooks Alliance Member, Thistle Regional Ambassador in Scotland & Member of IGCAT Global Experts Network. Her book on regenerative food production, “Meadows: The Swedish Farmer & The Scottish Cook” is co-written with her husband, Bosse Dahlgren, heritage farmer & genebank specialist.

WORLD FARMING

Small-scale farmers are vital to feeding West and Central Africa and transforming food systems

Amid increasing global hunger and poverty, devastating climate change impacts, the Covid-19 pandemic and the widespread effects of the war in Ukraine, small-scale producers can play a lead role in reducing hunger and poverty at country and regional levels. On 16 November 2022, the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) will convene policy-makers, development practitioners, rural producers and farmers organizations at its second Farmers Forum in GrandBassam, Côte d’Ivoire to explore opportunities to strengthen partnerships between them. Together, they can work jointly for sustainable transformation of food systems and food security.

The Farmers Forum will be a key component of discussions taking place during IFAD’s 12th Regional Implementation Workshop for IFAD-supported

projects in West and Central Africa (WCA), from 17 to 18 November. High-ranking government officials from Côte d’Ivoire’s Ministries of Agriculture and of Finance will be in attendance. Deliberations will focus on access to finance, support to youth in agriculture, and climate change and value chain approaches leveraging IFAD’s long-standing partnership with farmers organizations.

“Farmers’ organizations are the essential link in agricultural and rural development because of their central role in the dynamics between agriculture, socio-economic, and political transformation of every country in the region,” said Sana Jatta, IFAD’s Regional Director for West and Central Africa Division on the eve of workshop. “It is critical that governments and development partners like IFAD pursue genuine partnerships with them in order to

foster sustainable development in the rural and agricultural sectors.”

About 200 participants including 40 representatives of farmers’ organizations across the region are expected during the two events, including partners from IFAD-funded projects, representatives of governments, development agencies, the

European Union, UN agencies, the private sector, and members of civil society and farmers’ organizations. Over the three days, participants will work on developing strategies to strengthen country-level partnerships between farmer organizations and IFADsupported programmes in the region.

Finding more sustainable ways to cultivate rice crops

Rice farmers depend on phosphorous fertilizers to maximize their yields of this major staple food, which helps nourish more than half of the world’s population. However, there is a finite supply of the nutrient available to be mined.

Using the ultrabright light of the Canadian Light Source at

the University of Saskatchewan, German researchers examined soil samples from paddies in China in the hopes of learning how silicon can reduce the need for phosphorus-based fertilizers and make rice farming more sustainable.

Dr. Joerg Schaller and colleagues discovered that silicon, which is

also known to play a key role in growing rice, can replace phosphorus in soil and mobilize it to be available for absorption by the plants that need it. Phosphorus binds to iron in soil, rendering it unavailable to plants.

“If all the building places are occupied with silicon, there is no

space for phosphate to bind (in the soil). It means you need only half of the fertilizer,” said Schaller, who is with the Leibniz Centre for Agricultural Landscape Research (ZALF).

By taking multiple soil samples from rice paddies that have been used to cultivate rice for between 50 and 2,000

A team of researchers based in Europe used the Canadian Light Source to understand how to make fertilizer nutrients more available to rice plants.

WORLD FARMING

years and examining them using scanning transmission X-ray microscopy at the CLS, Schaller and his colleagues were able to better understand how and why silicon and phosphorus bond to the soil.

The wide range of paddy soil gave Schaller’s team a precise look at how long it takes soil to be depleted of silicon and saturated with phosphorus.

“It’s really valuable (to be able to study so many samples),” said Schaller. “Rice cultivation, they’ve done it for a really long time…it’s really interesting, to use such samples.”

Because phosphorus is critical to the growth of rice and so many other crops, finding a more sustainable solution to promoting rice growth — like using cheaper and more available silicon-based

fertilizers to prevent phosphorus saturation — is critical for the world’s food supply.

“This is really important for humankind,” Schaller said. “If we could decrease the need for phosphorus fertilization, this is a really important thing.”

Golden Agri-Resources introduces Sawit Terampil to enhance agricultural practices among farmers

Golden Agri-Resources (GAR) is collaborating with MARS and Fuji Oil to roll out Sawit Terampil, an upskilling programme for more than 4,000 independent smallholders from the Leuser Ecosystem area in Aceh and North Sumatera. It builds on GAR’s traceability efforts which has seen the company map 95 percent of its supply chain to the plantation. GAR is now looking to further improve the livelihoods of farmers identified through tracability to plantation efforts with Sawit Terampil.

The programme aims to provide comprehensive support to independent smallholders through group coaching and individual support to implement good agricultural practices. Capacity building trainings and mentoring will teach independent smallholders to improve their cultivation methods and prepare them to register for ISPO and RSPO certifications, which in turn

will help increase their incomes.

“Upskilling farmers and suppliers with knowledge is key to implementing sustainable agriculture practices. Building on the information we gained through the traceability initiatives, we can analyse the potential gap in productivity, yield and agricultural practices and provide targeted assistance to smallholders,” said Anita Neville, Chief Sustainability & Communications Officer, Golden Agri-Resources.

Innovation in agriculture

By Rural Affairs Secretary Mairi Gougeon

I was delighted to attend Agriscot in November and meet so many people and exhibitors at what proved to be a very successful and well-attended event.

For me, a key part of the visit was announcing the nine businesses taking part in the latest round of the Monitor Farm Programme.

Run jointly by Quality Meat Scotland and AHDB Cereals and Oilseeds, the programme promotes sustainable innovation and transformational change in the agricultural sector.

It focusses on practical farming and good business practices to build resilient, dynamic farms focused on reaching full economic, social and environmental sustainability.

The long-running programme is backed by £1.7 million of Scottish Government funding and brings research and industry closer together to share bestpractice learning and experience across the agricultural sector.

It is ideally placed to support the wider agricultural sector to build resilience and optimise production, contributing to our food security while helping meet our climate change and net zero targets.

The fact is that innovation and sustainability has never

been more important for an industry facing the significant challenges of the on-going war in Ukraine and against the backdrop of Covid-19, Brexit and the cost of living crisis.

As part of the process, each of the monitor farms will also have its own dedicated Management Team that will evaluate solutions and best practice before sharing its findings, both with the wider Community Groups and more generally through various media channels including a dedicated website.

I would encourage farmers and crofters to engage with the programme and benefit from the shared knowledge and experiences that come from the Monitor Farm Project.

The farms showcase the diversity of agricultural businesses and are located across Scotland – South Ayrshire, Strathspey, Banff and Buchan, Deeside, Stirlingshire, Roxburghshire, Dumfries, East Lothian and Argyll.

As it approaches its 20th anniversary, the Monitor Farm Programme continues to demonstrate its importance.

I am excited to see the range of ideas put into practice, tested and thoroughly evaluated and wish all the very best to those participating.

www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

Your Packaging Network

At NNZ we understand that it remains a busy time of year for winter crops such as beetroot, swedes, parsnips, leeks, and carrots. The winter months can also be challenging to keep livestock in tip top condition and with the costs in feed. fertiliser costs and so much more rising significantly over the past year. Its challenge on to see how we can help. Throughout the challenges at NNZ we have endeavoured to do all we can to absorb some of the exponential packaging increases where possible to support our farming partners.

Much as we would love to be the bearer of good news, the indications are it is going to continue to be a tough year with the impacts from the Ukraine War, Covid and Brexit still providing challenges to navigate, including higher costs. Fertilisers, feed, and energy increasing costs are having to be passed down the line to already struggling consumers, these pressures have all led to some hard decisions having to be made by the farming community over past and coming months.

That is where we would love to help. As a familyowned packaging company we can supply a range of options both from around the world, to locally sourced and produced options. With twenty-eight depots in eighteen countries, sourcing products from major producers to family businesses, our scale can often help keep costs down. Not to mention that the products we supply are

always great quality, backed up by our BRCGS AA sites and quality management systems.

In our UK sites we provide a wide range of packaging options and print PP Woven sacks, cut cardboard, line paper sacks and more. We have a great reputation for providing FIBC Bulk bags, Paper sacks, PP Woven sacks, Produce packaging and much more to a range of business-tobusiness customers. Our range is diverse from FIBC bags for milk powders, seeds, feeds, fertilisers and much more, we can help you get what you need to support your business packaging needs. We have also supplied a range of netting and net bags to the UK agricultural markets for over 40 years. We understand what is needed from potatoes, cabbages,

onion, broccoli, garlic, and a raft of produce we should have options to help your business. We appreciate that with rising costs solutions are needed, it is easy to stick with the same specifications for many years, simply because “that’s the way it’s been done for years.”

With advances in modern technology, however, we are happy to check your specifications and bag samples to see if we can help you reduce your packaging costs. Why not get in touch and let us conduct a free packaging audit for you. Think of it like an MOT for your packaging.

Despite the cold, long winter nights It will not be long until the grass starts growing again and the lambing season is underway again!

Call us now: 0141 956 1992

Craig and Gordon in our Scottish office would love to help you reduce costs and plan for the new year, ensuring we can get the stock you need in readiness for spring. Why not give them a call …

Address: NNZ Innovation Centre Ainslie Road, Hillington Park Glasgow, G52 4RU

Email: craig.farrell@lbkpackaging.co.uk, gordon.mcwilliam@lbkpackaging.co.uk

Farm Leeks

Turnips

Parsnips

organics

New knowledge network for organic farmers growing combinable crops in Scotland

Scottish Organic Producers Association (SOPA) and AHDB are launching a new network of organic cereals and combinable crop growers in Scotland.

The network will focus on several meetings per year in a hybrid format, where growers can exchange experience, knowledge and skills.

Organic growers are invited to attend the online launch on 29th November at 12.30pm, where David Cunningham, bio-agronomist from Dods of Haddington, will speak about how a biological focus on soils and plant nutrition is the future of organic yields.

Debs Roberts, SOPA Executive Manager, said “With around 80,000 ha of organic crops grown by SOPA members alone in Scotland, this group is established to help share peerto-peer knowledge about the technical aspects of organic cereals. We want to open the invitation to all organic growers in Scotland regardless of organic certification body, and welcome AHDB’s involvement.

Interested growers can register for the launch here https://bit. ly/3O5hIQl or by scanning the QR code below.

The first meeting of a new Tenancy Working Group has taken place with the aim of ensuring the Welsh Government’s Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS) is accessible and suitable for tenant farmers across Wales.

In July the Welsh Government published its most detailed proposals so far on future support for farmers.

The SFS is being designed to support farmers produce food sustainably, alongside taking action to lower their carbon footprint and benefit nature. Importantly, the scheme is being designed so all farmers can access it.

The newly established Tenancy Working Group is made up of a number stakeholder organisations, including the Tenant Farmers Association, CLA, NFU Cymru and FUW.

It will be exploring aspects of the SFS proposals such as contract length and practicality of the Universal Actions, which are designed to be met by all farmers including tenant farmers, as well as any other issues which would impact tenant farmers’ ability to join the scheme.

The findings of this Tenancy Working Group

By Lesley Griffiths

farmers in the sustainable production of food and helping to tackle the climate and nature emergencies”

The outline proposals include a series of actions separated into three layers;

will contribute to the final consultation on scheme design in 2023. Farmers will start transitioning to the SFS from 2025.

Minister for Rural Affairs Lesley Griffiths said: “Tenanted land makes up a significant portion of farmland in Wales and if the SFS does not work for the tenanted sector then it does not work at all.

“We must keep farmers on the land and all farmers should be able to access the scheme

“Engagement with the new working group we have established will help us make sure the scheme is accessible and suitable for tenant farmers across Wales.

“I am grateful for the ongoing support of our stakeholders in the continuing development of the scheme to support

The first layer is a set of Universal Actions – actions that every farm should be able to deliver to receive a Baseline Payment. To prevent a barrier to scheme entry, all Universal Actions are being designed to be delivered by farmers on tenancy agreements.

Farmers who want to go further, can receive extra payments by choosing from a range of Optional Actionsdepending on what suits their farm. Actions which cannot be delivered on short-term or restrictive tenancies will be in the optional layer unless there are suitable exemptions for tenant farmers.

There will also be opportunity for farmers to work together on Collaborative Actions at a local or regional scale to deliver outcomes that cannot be delivered on a single farm.

Working groups are also being established to explore other themes in relation to the SFS such as common land and new entrants.

Mae’n hanfodol bod ffermwyr tenant yn cael pob cyfle teg i ymuno â’r Cynllun Ffermio Cynaliadwy

“Fair access to Sustainable Farming Scheme for tenant farmers is vital for its success”

Lesley Griffiths

Breathing life back into Scotland’s neglected crofts

Confusion over crofting regulation is fuelling challenges around neglected crofts and preventing young families from accessing land and moving to rural communities.

There is a growing problem around crofts being held on to by crofters who are no longer able to actively work them or are being left to those who reside away –and in doing so, are failing to comply with Crofting Duties. The Crofting Commission were notified of 1,289 crofters across Scotland who did not comply with their Crofting Duties in 2020, with 70% of cases owing to individuals being nonresidents – this was up almost 100% from 2019.

This situation is partly fuelled by the low annual cost of rent, which allows families to hold on to crofts for sentimental reasons or in the hope of relations returning to work them in the future.

SAC Consulting, part of Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC), has recognised

that legislation surrounding crofting is presenting barriers to succession planning and the team has been helping individuals to better understand their options, to maximise the potential of their croft and to support the next generation get a foot hold in the industry.

Senior Consultant and crofter, Janette Sutherland, commented: “Crofting is a highly regulated system that can be bamboozling for those not used to it. Depending on their circumstances we can either reassure them that they are meeting their Crofting Duties or help them draw up plans to bring the croft back into cultivation and prevent neglect.”

SAC Consulting can also help navigate the forms needed to, either allow the croft to be sublet to someone else for a short time, or to be passed onto a new crofter.

“These conversations should never be rushed, as everyone’s situation is unique,” continued Janette. “We want to ensure

that there are safeguards in place for crofters’ homes, either by de-crofting before the croft is assigned, or for a solicitor to draw up a lifetime rent agreement if the croft house is to remain part of the croft.”

Subletting is an option, allowing a new crofter to get started or expand with low capital costs and they will also have access to the Crofting Agricultural Grant Schemefunds of up to £25,000 which can be used for capital projects, such as the construction of agricultural buildings, fencing or drainage.

“This can be an excellent temporary measure and ensures the croft stays in good condition,” said Janette. “The alternative of longterm informal grazing agreement often results in no investment in fencing or liming.

“Another option is for croft owners to consider short-term lets, perhaps to a young crofter, or, a family member better able to work the croft while keeping it in the family.”

Assignation, which is the permanent transfer of a crofting tenancy, can be even more positive as it allows a secure future for young crofters to build homes and invest in longer return projects such as shelter belts and sheds.

in 2021, the Crofting Commission found that less than 10% of all registered crofters in Scotland were under the age of 21 and close to 45% were over the age of 61.

“There is a need to inject young blood back into crofting communities, to ensure they remain thriving areas for years to come,” concluded Janette.

“We hope that we can encourage crofters who are unable to actively work their croft, to explore their options and perhaps open the door to new generations to get a foot hold.”

Local SAC Consulting advisors are on hand to help with plans for developing the croft, helping to overcome any issues and to keep you up to date with changes in policy and legislation.

For further information or to speak with Janette Sutherland, email Janette.Sutherland@sac.co.uk.

Tractors & tractor technology for 2023

A review of some of the latest tractor models and technological advances in readiness for the 2023 season ahead

Case IH previews its most powerful ever Puma tractor

Case IH chose SIMA 2022 to preview its new Puma 260 CVXDrive™, the most powerful, and advanced Puma ever. Providing ground-breaking comfort and connectivity, combined with excellent handling, power delivery and fuel efficiency, it incorporates aggressive styling and a suite of advanced technologies which help farming businesses to operate more efficiently, productively, and profitably.

Delivering an optimum blend of reliability, power and economy, Puma has become an outstanding global success story for Case IH since its launch in 2008. As the ultimate model in this popular range, the 260 CVXDrive provides a unique combination of farm, fleet, and data management capabilities, which are only available from Case IH and controlled from the tractor’s larger, more comfortable Puma cab.

Designed with arable farmers and contractors, the new tractor delivers elevated levels of power, performance, and productivity, with reduced operating costs plus increased uptime thanks to long service intervals and proactive connected services.

At the heart of this new flagship model is the Case IH AFS Connect system comprising the AFS Pro 1200 touch screen monitor, AFS Vision Pro operating system and AFS Vector Pro receiver. These allow the operator to configure tractor management and precision farming functionality to their specific requirements. Farm owners and managers can administer and optimize farm, fleet, and management data from a desktop PC or mobile device, at any time, while extended remote capabilities include screen sharing. AFS AccuGuide™ auto guidance and AFS AccuTurn Pro automated headland

CLAAS integrates Terranimo® into CEMOS for tractors

With the integration of the Terranimo® application in CEMOS for tractors, users now have another driving strategy available in addition to efficiency and productivity: soil protection. From summer 2022, Terranimo® will be part

of the standard range of CEMOS functions for tractors.

The groundbreaking and still the only self-learning, interactive driver assistance and process optimization system, the functionality of CEMOS for tractors has been further expanded.

The Terranimo® application will be fully integrated in CEMOS for tractors from summer 2022, which will enable the tractor-implement setting to be even more focused on soil protection.

Terranimo® is a simulation model developed by the Bern

management technology further increase convenience and productivity, with accuracy to 1.5cm with RTK+.

University of Applied Sciences (BFH-HAFL) in cooperation with the Agroscope Reckenholz research institute, Aarhus University in Denmark and the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), which calculates and visualizes the risk of harmful compactions. The algorithms are based, among other things, on decades of accumulated expertise. In CEMOS for tractors, they are combined with the current available parameters, such as soil type and soil condition, working depth, field condition (uncultivated, shallowly tilled or deep tilled), attachment, tire type, ballasting and a few more, so that there is no further effort involved in using Terranimo®.

Based on the combined information and the technical mechanics calculated by CEMOS (e.g. static and dynamic axle loads), Terranimo® calculates the compaction risk separately for three soil

layers. On the basis of this risk assessment, CEMOS can provide the driver with further recommendations for ballasting and optimizing the tire pressure in order to drive in a way that protects the soil. If the driver changes the settings for the tractor-implement combination, such as the tire pressure, based on the compaction risks and the recommendations derived from them, this information flows directly into the current risk assessment of the Terranimo® function. As a result, the driver will receive direct feedback on the effect that changing the settings will have.

For this innovation, CLAAS received a silver medal from the Agritechnica Innovation Commission.

The new DEUTZ-FAHR 6.4 Series -

from 6130.4 to 6150.4

D-K-R

After renewing the high horsepower models of the 6 series, DEUTZ-FAHR is proud to present the all-new family members of the 6.4 Series at EIMA 2022, a range of lighter platform machines in the 130 to 150 Hp power range conceived to combine efficiency, compact dimensions, agility and comfort with hallmark German quality and technology. These tractors feature compact dimensions, a new and exclusive powertrain based on brand new engines, allnew, highly efficient transmissions and new front axles. The result is an integrated system delivering outstanding performance in all conditions, superior draft capacity and excellent global efficiency, whether driving at high speed on public roads or working in field or

around the farm.

The new models are available in three variants (6130.4 –_6140.4 – _6150.4), all sharing a contemporary, eye-catching design in keeping with the style of today’s DEUTZ-FAHR range.

The class-beating technological features of the new 6.4 models make them the perfect choice for any farm that needs a machine capable of tackling a wide variety of tasks, from soil preparation and hay-making, from general front loader work and feeder wagon to high speed road transport and stationary PTO tasks and snow-clearing use. Whatever the application, extraordinary comfort is guaranteed on board any 6.4 Series tractor with suspended

MaxiVision cabs with ergonomic multifunction armrests and intuitive controls, front axles with hydraulic suspension and a choice of specific SDF Smart Farming Solutions for precision farming.

Alongside the compact dimensions of its 4-cylinder architecture, the new FARMotion 45 combines outstanding reliability and efficiency with extremely low operating costs. Contributing to the extraordinary efficiency of the engine is an electronically controlled high pressure Common Rail fuel injection system. The system not only maximises torque and power delivery and allows for a flat torque curve but also optimises fuel combustion, reducing both consumption and noise. The electronically managed VTG variable turbocharger geometry ensures lag-free response to changes in load, while the electronically controlled viscostatic fan reduces power losses and fuel consumption.

Intensive R&R and user appraisals underpin Fastrac features

From the simplest display screen graphics to the complex software controlling the continuously variable transmission, new features launched on the JCB Fastrac iCON tractors are the result of an intensive four-year R&D programme and feedback from operators driving evaluation machines.

The latest Fastrac 4000 and 8000 Series have an all-new electronics infrastructure that includes fully integrated ISOBUS implement control and GPS guidance options, with everything operated using the new iCON armrest control console incorporating a 12in colour touchscreen display.

In addition to creating this new operator-machine interface, JCB engineers also developed new control strategies for the CVT transmission, with fully automatic speed-based powertrain management introduced alongside existing modes.

A joystick-mounted thumb roller provides fine speed adjustment, while seamless automatic switching between driving techniques is triggered simply by operating either the pedal or joystick.

JCB Agriculture Managing Director, John Smith, said: “We wanted to offer a bespoke operating

experience for every driver, so there are multiple-choice control options and lots of capacity to store individual operator and implement settings profiles.”

To achieve those goals, JCB software engineers alone accumulated more than 32,000 man-hours of development time, sitting alongside operators with a laptop computer to make finetuning adjustments so their effect could immediately be judged.

As a result, feedback on the new Smart Transmission Control system, which allows the powertrain to automatically balance revs and ratio to deliver a

target ground speed, has been very positive.

The ‘bespoke’ nature of the Fastrac’s new operating experience even runs to the master joystick, which can control the transmission in

‘classic’ mode by moving it left and right to change ground speed, or by switching to setup that drivers of other tractors will find familiar – moving the joystick forward and back to speed up and slow down.

The new 5ML Tractor Series from John Deere

With the new 5ML Series, which includes the flagship 5130ML, John Deere introduces its most intelligent and powerful narrow tractors for use in highvalue crops to date. The 5ML tractors can be equipped with a comprehensive John Deere technology package for precision farming and deliver a maximum output of 134 hp.

To make working with specialty crops easier, the 5ML offers a comprehensive John Deere technology package for precision farming. A unique feature is the integrated AutoTracTM guidance system.

The AutoTracTM display has been integrated directly into the tractor’s dashboard, eliminating the need for an additional activation or display. Above all, this saves additional costs. With its equipment, the 5ML makes it possible to combine different work steps. The integrated guidance system enables the driver to deliver a high quality of work even on long days. He can fully concentrate on the implements as the tractor itself stays on track.

Due to political measures, farmers have to document their work processes in increasing

detail, which means additional effort. With the optionally available Gen 4 display on the 5ML, every step of the tractor’s work can be easily documented and securely transferred to the John Deere Operations Centre, which is available free of charge. Here, all operations can be monitored, planned and analysed, enabling the farmer to make informed agronomic decisions.

With 1ClickGo AutoSetup from

John Deere, settings for the documentation and execution of the work steps, such as an application rate for a crop protection measure, can be set up via the Operations Center. As soon as the tractor enters the respective field, the defined job appears on the display. All the driver has to do is confirm and start working. 1ClickGo AutoSetup thus saves set-up time and ensures error-free documentation.

Kioti puts driver comfort at the forefront with the HX series tractor

The new HX series of tractors from South Korean manufacturer KIOTI offers a new efficient, comfortable and cost effective option for farmers looking to buy a tractor in the 90 to 140hp sector.

Making its debut at the SIMA show in Paris, the KIOTI HX is powered by a KIOTI 3.8l 4-cylinder STAGE V turbo charged engine. The series consists of three models, the HX9010 rated to 90 hp, the HX1001 rated to 100hp and the HX1201 rated to 115hp, all with an automatic on demand PTO boost of 10hp.

Featuring a comfortable and luxurious cab, with fully adjustable air suspension seat, LCD dashboard and ergonomic controls, the HX cab provides

the operator with a pleasant working environment.

A two-stage mechanical transmission with a 4 x 4 powershift arrangement provides 32 forward and reverse gears, offering a maximum speed of 40 km/hr. The ‘E-shift’ allows gear changes on the move without using the clutch pedal.

With versatility in mind, the HX features a CAT 2 rear hitch with a 4.4te lift capacity, two rear double acting services and a rear PTO with 540, 540 ECO and 1000 rpm options, which can be engaged manually or via the automatic mode linked to the rear linkage. Operators wishing to increase the versatility of their HX can do so by fitting an optional front linkage and PTO or a front loader, operated by an integrated four-way control lever.

Prices for the range topping HX 1201 start from £71,750.

Kubota to introduce more options for M6001 Utility tractors

Lamma 2023 will see Kubota (UK) Ltd roll out more options for the 104-143hp M6001 Utility tractor series as it focusses on improving comfort, versatility and efficiency. These options now include the introduction of front axle suspension, front linkage, and front pto.

“The M6001 Utility series is proving to be a cost-effective and

practical option in the 100-140hp sector,” explains Henry Myatt, Kubota’s product manager for M series tractors. “And to build on that success, we’ve increased the options available for those who would like that bit more versatility from their Kubota tractors.”

It may be recalled that the M6001 Utility was first

introduced at the 2022 Lamma show. The series offers five models from 104-143hp, and meets EU Stage V emissions with an improved exhaust after-treatment package that contributes to lowering the cost of ownership.

Short wheelbase models comprise the M6-101U and M6-111U, which use a 3.8-litre Kubota V3800 four-cylinder engine producing maximum power of 104hp and 111hp respectively. With a 2.54m wheelbase, these two models offer maximum torque figures of 346Nm and 379Nm.

M6-121U, M6-131U and M6-141U sit on a longer 2.68m wheelbase, and use Kubota’s 6.1-litre V6108 four-cylinder engine as found in the M6002 and M7003 tractor series. Power outputs are 123hp, 133hp and 143hp, with maximum torque figures of 503Nm, 544Nm and 586Nm respectively.

McCormick X6.414 P6-Drive is the 2023 Tractor of The Year in the Best Utility category

The prestigious award was collected by Alberto Morra along with the management of Argo Tractors during the ceremony held in the Quadriportico of the Bologna Exhibition Centre on the first day of the international trade show dedicated to agricultural mechanisation that saw a record numbers of visitors. More than 327,000 visitors, including more than 57,000 from abroad, and a huge success, even in the media, made the 45th edition of Eima International the best one ever, putting behind it the difficult years caused by the health

emergency and the international economic downturn.

McCormick X6.4 P6-Drive was designed precisely to combine versatility, performance and comfort in a single tractor. Stage V compliant thanks to the exhaust gas post-treatment system, the range features models

X6.413, X6.414 and X6.415, powered by 4.5-litre, 16-valve, 4-cylinder FPT NEF 45 engines with a maximum power output of 146 hp on the winning model.

The model’s strengths are the front axle with independent suspension, four-wheel braking, the P6-Drive transmission with

six PowerShift gears and four robotised ranges, manufactured by Argo Tractors, the McCormick High Vision Cab (cab with FOPS-approved panoramic roof, additional hatch for natural ventilation and LED field lights). Also improving driving comfort is the mechanical cab

suspension, designed with highquality materials and equipped with ergonomic controls, 12-inch touch screen monitor and Smart Pilot Plus multifunction joystick, capable of simultaneously controlling the transmission, front loader, front hitch and hydraulic system.

New flagship model in the New Holland T7 Long Wheelbase range

The new T7.300 flagship model long wheelbase with PLM Intelligence was officially launched at the SIMA show. Every detail and aspect of the T7.300 has been improved, enlarged and enhanced to create the perfect machine for large arable farms.

Featuring the same wheelbase as the current model the new T7.300 delivers a maximum 280hp for draft work and 300hp for PTO and haulage. An 18% increase in fuel capacity means more time in the fields and operational costs are reduced with a service interval that is 50% longer than some competitors. Customers can also look forward to the superior environment and comfort of the Horizon™ Ultra cab with increased cab space

and improved climate control. At just 66dBa it is also boasts the quietest cab on the market and features the Comfort Ride electro-hydraulic suspension system, which decouples the cab from the chassis to dampen undulations. This easy to use, intelligent cab includes customizable controls and the unique Sidewinder Ultra armrest.

The new T7.300 also benefits from New Holland’s advanced PLM Intelligence solutions that integrate digital technologies to deliver smart and connected agriculture, enabling customers to maximise the machine’s productivity while optimising yield and input costs. PLM Intelligence is integrated into the machine offering systems such as the IntelliSteer autosteering

system, the intelliTurn and headland management functions, ISOBUS control for section control and variable rate which all increase productivity, reduce costs and increase comfort. The range is also connected to the farm office and dealer

through MYPLM Connect. With an upgraded version of New Holland’s popular Auto Command™ transmission, the best-in-class driveline for tractive effort finally adds the icing on the cake for this tractor’s exceptional efficiency.

Industry’s first all-electric tractor at low carbon agriculture show

Acknowledged for leading the low carbon technology way when it comes to tractors, Reesink Agriculture is bringing the industry’s first all-electric tractor from Farmtrac to the Low Carbon Agriculture Show. This will be joined by BigToolRack’s Ultimate Rack for the ultimate in tractor cargo space.

Farmtrac’s FT25G is critically acclaimed for bringing zero emissions, minimal noise and vibration, high energy

efficiency, and low operating and maintenance costs to the UK’s farming sector.

It has led the way with the growing industry focus on moving away from fossil fuels to low or zero emission products since it launched two years ago and in that time has proven itself as more than capable of equalling the performance of its diesel counterparts, something Fully Charged’s presenter Robert Llewellyn and farmer Adam

Henson discovered when they reviewed it and put it through its paces around the farm for BBC’s Countryfile and Fully Charged YouTube channel.

It is powered by a 22kwh battery pack, has a lift capacity of 450kg and boasts world class components including transmissions designed and produced by Carraro and hydraulic systems from MITA, to deliver a superior performance whatever the task.

When that is coupled with the Ultimate Rack from BigToolRack many of the common frustrations of a lack of cargo space on a tractor are solved. Providing organised, secure storage for a compact or sub-compact tractor or utility vehicle in seconds, the Ultimate Rack is in a nutshell, the Swiss Army Knife of tool carrying attachments.

It features a large cargo area (with a load capacity of 272kgs

and tailgate capacity of 113kgs) and provides space to securely attach tools out of the way of the cargo area. There’s no need to buy a ballast box separately; the counterweight option when

moving heavy loads with a loader can be used instead.

Visit Reesink Agriculture on stand LEV6 at the Low Carbon Agriculture Show 2022 from 7-8 February at NAEC, Stoneleigh.

Valtra Q Series wins Farm Machine 2023 Jury Award

The all-new Valtra Q Series has won the much-coveted FARM MACHINE 2023 Jury Award. The FARM MACHINE award, formerly known as Machine of the Year, is one of the most prestigious awards in agricultural engineering.

Launched in September 2022, the Q Series is Valtra’s newest addition to the 5th generation line up. Known as ‘The Beast’, the Q Series completes Valtra’s horsepower offering with a power range of 230 to 305 hp.

The Beast has quickly gathered industry attention

for its efficient and powerful CVT-based powertrain and smart farming technology such as Valtra Guide, Variable Rate Control and SmartTurn which come as standard. Farmers and contractors alike have praised the Q Series for its comfort, manoeuvrability, and ergonomics.

Ultimately, it was the Q Series’ versatility and agricultural contractor focused approach that won over the FARM MACHINE 2023 jury at SIMA in Paris on 6th November. Winners of the FARM MACHINE Jury Award are

chosen by an international jury consisting of farm equipment journalists from over a dozen countries.

“We know we have a winning machine with the Q Series. It has exactly the power, comfort, and technology large farms and contractors are looking for in a tractor of this horse power. Furthermore, we guarantee the best tractor experience for our

customers with the Q Certified Dealer program. Q Certified dealers offer tailored financing, exceptional after sales service, and ensure every Q Series is set up with all smart farming features right from day one. We are confident that the Beast will continue to impress customers and juries”, comments Mikko Lehikoinen, Vice President Marketing.

Zetor Proxima receives update including new Deutz engine

To mark the 18th birthday of the Zetor Proxima range of tractors will receive a facelift, including the upgrade to a Stage V Deutz four-cylinder turbo charged diesel engine.

Since the Proxima’s launch in 2004 more than 36,000 units have been produced and sold worldwide to many small and mid-sized farms, forestry operations and municipalities. Gaining a reputation for low fuel consumption, high reliability and ease of operation, the updated Stage 5 Deutz TCD 3.6 fourcylinder turbocharged engine maintains this reputation, whilst ensuring the emissions meet the current legislation through a combination of a particulate filter (DPF) together with exhaust gas recirculation, selective catalytic reduction (SCR), and oxidation catalyst (DOC). At first glance customers will also notice the new exhaust pipe and significantly smoother and quieter operation.

Focusing on operator comfort, the Proxima receives improved control layout on the dashboard, an increase in urea tank capacity to 21l, and a transmission oil clogging indicator - which is easily accessible under the tractor cabin and allows the operator to easily and quickly check the oil purity.

In front of the cabin, operators will find a new compressed air outlet, this brings the possibility

of more comfortable cleaning of the radiators and coolers or for inflating tyres. In addition, PROXIMA can be equipped with an external lockable toolbox, helping keep tools and accessories safe. The Proxima

will still consist of three model lines: PROXIMA CL with a 12 x 12 mechanical SynchroShuttle gearbox, PROXIMA GP with a 16x16 Mechanical SynchroShuttle gearbox, and the most powerful PROXIMA HS

with a 24x24 Electrohydraulic PowerShuttle gearbox. Power ranges from 80 to 120hp across all three ranges.

The first Stage V units will be available in the UK from early 2023.

case study

Tyres perform in climatic extremes

Mixed farmer and contractor

Walter Dandie and Sons chose to fit Continental tyres to a John Deere 6155R in 2021 in a bid to improve tyre life, efficiency and durability. After a busy and extremely hot summer of road work and a demanding autumn, William Dandie suggests the tyres have fared remarkably well.

Mr Dandie is the fourthgeneration to farm near Edinburgh. With 3000 acres of combinable crops and 200 acres of grassland there is a great deal of trailer work throughout the year for the 6155R. Following disappointing tyres in the past, he chose to experiment with a set of newly marketed Continental Tractor85 tyres.

“Our tyre dealer Soltyre explained that Continental was making tyres in a new factory and that the tyres were covered by a ten-year warranty. I needed little more encouragement to give the tyres a try and had four fitted to the 6155R in September 2021,” he explains.

Continental has been manufacturing new lines of tyres, including the Tractor85, at a facility in Lousado, Portugal for the last five years. The tyres represent the brand’s return to agricultural tyre production following an almost twenty-year gap, which saw the Czech brand Mitas manufacture tyres under the Continental brand.

The John Deere is fitted with 420/85 R28 to the front and 480/80/R42 tyres to the rear. The tyres feature a unique lug design which Continental has branded d.fine. The spacing and contour of the lugs, along with the percentage of lug covering the tyre, is different to some radial tyres and in most cases the Tractor85 has 5% more lug coverage.

“I have noticed that the tyres self-clean and shed soil very well. This hasn’t been a big issue in the spring and summer months but certainly in autumn when we use the tractor to do some ploughing, it’s a big benefit,” he says.

The summer of 2022 was unseasonably long and hot, causing a multitude of concerns for machinery operators. Tyres are forced to expand in the heat as the pressure increases. With Mr Dandie running the tyres largely on the road the pressures were very high, often reaching over 26 psi.

Whilst the tyres reached high temperatures through the day, at night the rubber was left to cool. This can cause flat spots where the tyre cools to a flat shape overnight as a result of the weight of the tractor. However, Mr Dandie did not experience this with his new Continental tyres, despite the very hot conditions.

“The tyres are very flexible, and I think this helps. There is no doubt that they were running in hot conditions, but I never experienced a flat spot. The tyres would run as smoothly first thing in the morning as at the end of the day. It has also been good to see that as the rubber heated up the tyres didn’t wear unevenly or excessively,” he says.

Continental introduced a new layer to its agricultural range when the tyres were relaunched. A patented nylon layer named N.flex was developed to help the tyre maintain its round shape. Sitting beneath the rubber, N.flex helps the tyre to resist deformation from the heating and cooling of everyday work and also helps protect the tyre from foreign objects.

At the peak of harvest, the John Deere was worked for 500 hours over just six weeks and covered a staggering 5000 kilometres. Almost the entire time it was hauling a 16-tonne grain trailer laden or a flatbed bale trailer. However, Mr Dandie suggests that the tyres stood up well and after a total of 2000 hours work still have plenty of tread.

“It is still early days, but the signs of longevity are good. I would hope to get up to 4000 hours out of a set of tyres, but I think these Continental’s could go further,” he concludes.

Drones take carbon project to next level

High-tech drones are being deployed across Scotland as part of an innovative project to estimate the carbon stored on the country’s farms.

Environmental specialists at SAC Consulting, part of Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC), are using dronemounted LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensors to estimate above-ground carbon storage in hedges and trees.

Combined with laboratory soil analysis, the project will deliver an estimate of farm carbon stocks as part of the drive towards net zero.

The sites comprising Scotland’s first Farm Carbon Storage Network represent five of the country’s main farming systems: upland beef and sheep,

dairy, arable and crofting, which together account for nearly 90 per cent of agricultural land use.

It is hoped data from the project, which has received money from the Knowledge Transfer and Innovation Fund (KTIF), could support future projects where carbon sequestration from different management practices can be estimated, including rotational grazing, cover cropping, integration of livestock, hedge planting and minimum tillage.

Seamus Murphy from SAC Consulting said: “While we all understand that trees, hedges, and soils on farms make a positive contribution to climate change mitigation, this project will give us a greater understanding of the scale of this contribution.

“By improving estimates of carbon stored on farm and improving our understanding of base carbon storage, it will help to support work to quantify the

impacts of certain agricultural management practices.”

To find out more about the project, visit www.sruc.ac.uk/ carbonstorage

New report finds Cairngorms National Park could reach net zero well ahead of target

The Cairngorms National Park could be net zero within the next three years if it delivers on recently approved Cairngorms National Park Partnership Plan targets. The new report also shows that the National Park will continue to sequester significant amounts

of carbon from 2025 onwards, helping Scotland and the UK meet their 2045 and 2050 targets.

Independent carbon accounting specialists, Small World Consulting, have been commissioned by all 15 UK national parks to produce detailed greenhouse gas emissions

assessments. The report for the Cairngorms National Park shows that with fewer residents and visitors compared to other UK national parks, and far more capacity for carbon storage, the Cairngorms could reach net zero by 2025 following the targets set out in the Partnership Plan.

The report was presented to Park Authority Board members today (Friday 25 November). They were asked to consider the greenhouse gas emissions assessment for the National Park, noting the target scenario to reach net zero early, as well as the National Park’s proportionately greater capacity for carbon sequestration compared to other areas of the UK.

The climate crisis and the need to adapt to climate change

and to reach net zero are globally accepted priorities, guided by science, as such the Cairngorms National Park Partnership Plan and the ‘Heritage Horizons: Cairngorms 2030’ programme both set out clear targets to ensure that the Cairngorms National Park reaches net zero and then becomes carbon negative, contributing to helping Scotland meet its commitments.

The Partnership Plan includes specific commitments to create a minimum of 35,000 ha of new woodland cover by 2045, restore a minimum of 38,000 ha of peatland, work with farmers and other land managers to encourage sustainable land management, and ensure at least 50 per cent of the National Park is managed principally for ecological restoration by 2045.

Environmental specialists use a drone to estimate carbon storage on Tiree

Take action on peatland carbon measurement now

In light of the renewed focus on peatland restoration, hill and fenland farmers are being urged to measure and manage their farm’s natural capital now.

But with mismanagement of peatland having the potential to derail the industry’s net zero ambitions, farmers must be given the right tools to do so, says Trinity AgTech’s director of business development, Anna Woodley.

“Peatland is incredibly important for improving the rural economy, domestic food security, and reaching our net zero ambitions,” explains Ms Woodley. “Yet many first-generation carbon

calculators do not take peatland into account. Where it does exist, the methodology lacks sophistication and accuracy and bulks peat in the Fens is the same as the Welsh uplands, which it clearly isn’t.

“Farmers cannot be expected to be effective stewards of the land if they are not given the right insights and reliable analytics.”

Ms Woodley explains a new peatland module within next generation natural capital navigator Sandy, has recently been launched to support farmers to credibly and accurately measure their carbon and biodiversity footprints for the very first time.

Trialling new tech

Working with Focus Farmers across Scotland, we looked at practical ways to improve farm efficiency and reduce emissions. One of the innovative solutions on trial was the hydrogen electrolyser, retrofitted to farm vehicles. With the cost of fuel unlikely to fall significantly, now seems a good time to revisit.

A hydrogen electrolyser enables vehicles to run on a combination of diesel and hydrogen. Fitted to vehicles with a conventional diesel engine, the hydrogen electrolyser claims to improve fuel efficiency whilst reducing emissions.

The kit itself is about half the size of a small suitcase and consists of an electrolyser, a control unit and a water reservoir (using distilled water). The electrolyser effectively “splits” water into oxygen and hydrogen by passing an electrical current through distilled water and collecting the gases. Rather than trying to collect gases separately, the system collects “oxyhydrogen” which is injected into the conventional diesel engine.

Introducing the oxyhydrogen results in more efficient fuel combustion, a reduction in fuel use and subsequently lower emissions. Fitted to a farm telehandler during the trial period, the kit resulted in a fuel saving of 20%, which was a reduction of over 1000 litres fuel per year.

As Farming for a Better Climate moves forward, we are looking to carry out more on-farm trials and demonstrations of new and emerging technology that could, if proven, really make a difference to productivity and help further drive down farm emissions. We are currently developing our programme, but what would you like to see trialled and tested on a working farm? Get in touch at climatechange@sac.co.uk - we would love to hear from you.

To read more about the hydrogen electrolyser, or other practical ideas to improve farm efficiency and reduce the farm carbon footprint visit www. farmingforabetterclimate. org, sign up to our monthly newsletter, find us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter @SACFarm4Climate.

Rebecca Audsley, Farming for a Better Climate project lead, SAC Consulting.

Farming for a Better Climate is funded by Scottish Government and delivered by SAC Consulting

science & technology

Bio-Sep launches new joint industry project to fuel the green revolution

Bio-Sep has begun an exciting joint industry project which aims to develop renewable, biosourced alternatives for existing petrochemically derived platform chemicals, ultimately helping to meet the worldwide demand for clean technologies and contributing to net-zero carbon goals. The new venture is in collaboration with the Innovation Centre for Applied Sustainable Technologies (iCAST), which includes prestigious institutions such as the University of Bath and the National Composites Centre (NCC).

Bio-Sep specialises in the conversion of non-food, lignocellulosic biomass generated by agriculture and forestry into high-value biochemicals, using its unique, low energy biorefinery process. It produces a novel, nonsulphonated lignin with enhanced reactivity and low molecular weight. This new product and exclusive separation process have great potential for the largescale manufacture of sustainable biochemical substitutes that can be used in multiple commercial applications, such as the composites and construction industries. The joint industry project aims to extensively test the properties and performance of the products, both as part of biobased composites and as a cement admixture. Dr Andrew West, Chief Chemist at Bio-Sep, explained: “This interdisciplinary R&D project will allow us to develop and demonstrate potential applications for our

non-sulphonated lignin and biorefinery process. We are very much looking forward to working with our valuable partners within iCAST, and benefiting from their global expertise and extensive knowledge in bio-based materials chemistry and composites manufacture.”Professor Matthew Davidson, iCAST Director, added: “We are delighted to be working with Bio-Sep to accelerate innovation in this important area. It is exactly the sort of collaboration that iCAST was designed to undertake, and one of the first of around 50 joint industry projects that we plan to deliver in the next two years. By bringing together iCAST’s expertise in materials and manufacturing, and innovative companies such as Bio-Sep, we aim to accelerate the deployment of sustainable technologies into commercial applications. This will in turn contribute to achieving the UK’s net zero and Clean Growth targets.”Tim Young, Head of Sustainability at the National Composites Centre, said: “Being part of the Bio-Sep project will enable us to assess the suitability of a highly innovative, low-carbon, composite material. The NCC team looks forward to assessing the feasibility of the material for use in industrial applications using our design, manufacturing and quality assessment expertise alongside our customer network, to help the material’s route to market. We are delighted to support Bio-Sep with its exciting sustainability offering for the composites marketplace, and

to be part of the consortium of partners, pooling expertise and knowledge in this growing specialist area.”Early results of the project are encouraging, suggesting that in the near future,

composites and construction industries could make use of a low-carbon, renewable material, further displacing petrochemicals and improving their operational sustainability.

In these modern hoeing machines, the new Combi Cam Mode, which is automatically activated at the factory, generates a superimposed image from both cameras. As a result, the system works from twice as much visual information, which ensures even more precise row detection and offers great advantages, especially in heterogeneous, patchy crops. This provides noticeable relief to drivers, as manual switching between the two cameras is no longer necessary. Of course, it is still possible to select only one camera with a good view, for example if the other camera is outside the field boundary.

Alternatively, the AutoSwitch Cam Mode can be activated via the settings. In this mode, the machine is automatically controlled via the camera that receives the best image. The system switches as soon as the image quality falls below a set threshold. This ensures consistently precise row guidance until the next turning operation.

Looking back on the last year

By NFU Scotland President

Martin Kennedy

FARMING SCOTLAND MAGAZINE Next issue out March 2023 Subscription page 113

This has certainly been a year whereby ongoing challenges to our industry have made the year go past extremely quickly.

A highlight was our highly successful #FoodNeedsAFarmer rally at Holyrood, with a great deal of gratitude to all those farmers and crofters who gave up their time to attend and emphasise the fact that food production must be front and centre of future agricultural policy in Scotland.

With over four hundred in attendance our presence could not be ignored, this led to not only the Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and the Islands addressing us, but also MSPs from all the political parties in Holyrood, including the party leaders from the Scottish Conservatives and the Scottish Liberal Democrats.

Indeed, the Holyrood rally showed just how effective a lobbying organisation NFU Scotland is. That political engagement adding to the many more parliamentarians we hosted regionally onfarm and at local farm shops throughout the year.

It was also fantastic to meet politicians alongside the wider membership at all the agricultural shows, meetings, and events we once again have been able to enjoy in 2022.

There remains massive frustration within the industry about where our future lies, the Scottish Government and indeed the whole of the Scottish Parliament has within its power the ability to deliver a future policy that will not only grow our industry, but to do it in a manner that delivers the wider environmental goals that society has demanded of us.

Our submission to the Scottish Government’s landmark Agriculture Bill, expected to set policy direction from 2025 went in in late November. Our 55-page document was informed by the widest and most comprehensive programme of member meetings and webinars.

We have called for an immediate, clear, and unwavering commitment from Scottish Government that future policy, as defined

by the Agriculture Bill, will underpin agricultural activity and Scotland’s iconic food and drink sector.

And we issued the stark warning that if the pursuit of a misplaced vision is all that matters to Scottish Government, then Scotland’s future ‘agricultural support’ policy will fail.

NFU Scotland

I hope it delivers on all the recommendations we have made. For our industry to change the way it operates, the industry itself must be listened to, as it is only those who live and work on the land that will understand what the unintended consequences of wrong decisions will be.

I can never remember a time when so many things are having an affect on agriculture all at one time as it is right now. Getting the message across is our ‘Number One’ priority and I must thank our fantastic staff body within NFU Scotland who work tirelessly to address many of the concerns we are facing with some excellent results.

www.nfus.org.uk

science

& technology

Tedders from Kuhn

In 2022 KUHN launched 13, 15 and 17 metre wide tedders which fold twice as fast as the outgoing models and are fitted with new rotors and tines that are expected to last twice as long. The GF series also features a new reversible draw bar that will enable the tedder to be hitched to a wider range of tractors.

The GF 13003 T is likely to be a popular model and replaces the outgoing GF 13012 to offer operators an improved tedder with new rotors and tines. KUHN has concentrated on saving time and extending the life of the machine. It still has 12 rotors, but these have been upgraded to reduce wear.

The new tines are expected to last twice as long as those on the outgoing model due to an increase in the tine diameter and stronger springs. The new tines are 10mm wide and have upgraded springs that have increased from 70 millimetres to 80 millimetres. The wider tine, with a larger and stronger spring, makes the GF tedders more resilient than the previous models which is expected to double the life of the tines.

The folding mechanism on the new machines is twice as fast as the outgoing model. A new single movement, folding mechanism works directly off a tractor spool with no control box or electric sensors needed. By creating a single movement, KUHN has reduced the folding and unfolding time to just 2025 seconds.

Anti-loss function on the tine is now a standard feature and offers the ability to set the tine height hydraulically. The new models also have improved ground adaption thanks to the choice of new wheels which will help operators calibrate the tedder to the ground conditions. KUHN’s Ground Save Control (GSC) system allows the rotor

train to move independently of the carrying frame.

When in use, the weight of the chassis is supported by the large

transport wheels, while the small diameter rotors are suspended separately, enabling each rotor to follow the contours of the

ground without scraping the soil. This not only prevents the crop from being contaminated by dirt, but also reduces tine tip wear.

The new folding mechanism on the KUHN GF tedders is twice as fast as the previous models

The KUHN GF Tedder is available in 13, 15 and 17 metre widths

new to market

A new easy solution to tackle vitamin E crisis

A leading animal health expert is helping farmers optimise the performance of their cattle and tackle the “hidden” issue of a shortfall of vitamin E in UK cows.

Researchers have also found 89% of UK grazed grass is also deficient in selenium.

Both are crucial antioxidants that are critical for cattle health in periods of stress and Agrimin have developed a new slow-

release bolus range that helps cattle reach their full potential.

The ESey BREEDER and ESey FINISHER boluses provide dairy cows and beef cattle with the recommended levels of vitamin E and selenium they need in periods of stress, such as transition, calving and periods of hot weather. They supply the animal’s full daily requirement for approximately 60 days.

For dairy cows, the ESey BREEDER bolus aids in a quicker recovery after calving, boosting milk production and productivity.

The ESey FINISHER bolus optimises daily liveweight gain for beef cattle to hit target weights quicker and helps meat quality and redness.

Callum Harvey, technical manager at Agrimin, says: “We’ve developed an easy

solution for farmers. By using the ESey bolus range, farmers can rest assured their cattle are getting the recommended levels of vitamin E and selenium they need.”

Source Scotland’s best at Speciality Food Show in Glasgow

Scotland’s reputation for fine food and drinks is renowned worldwide so there is no better place to find and taste it than at Scotland’s Speciality Food Show at the SEC in Glasgow from 2224 Jan 2023.

Here some 120 producers from all corners of Scotland, and beyond, will showcase the latest delicious treats from pies to preserves, from spirits to shortbread and from chocolate to cheese. With small producers from Orkney, Mull, and Shetland to larger distilleries and makers from the glens and central belt, this Show promises to be a haven of fine foods, tasty morsels and delicious drinks.

Farm shops, delis, restaurants, cafes and hotels and tourist outlets will all be able to source new products, re-connect with old friends and place orders for the summer 2023 season. Not only will the products be on show but buyers can feel and see the packaging and the extensive moves to more sustainable production that is a hallmark of Scottish food and drink.

New to the Show for 2023 are The Sweetie Jar with its traditional sweets, Kinnaird Kitchen confectionery from Angus, NEST Selected Greek products, Persie Gin from Perthshire, Wark Farm Pies from Aberdeenshire, The Bottled Baking Company, Rural Foodies, Isle of Barra Distillers, Mellis

Cheese, The Moray Honey Company and West Highland Tea Company.

Food from the regions has always been popular and it’s great to see Tastes of Orkney and Food from Argyll hosting large stands brimming with innovative products. Orkney is a hotbed of creativity and on their large stand you can taste smoked fish from Jollys, cheese from the Island Smokery, Bannocks from Westray Bakehouse and ice cream from the Orkney Creamery. Equally the range from Argyll includes Isle of Mull

cheese, Tobermory fish, Tiree tea, Deer Island Distillers and Slainte Sauces.

To help develop your business skills, the Talking Shop has a rich timetable of talks, panel discussions and masterclasses. Gary Ennis and team from Digital Boost will educate on elements of social media and ecommerce, Pinterest and engaging content; Adam Hardie, Johnston Carmichael, will host an informative panel discussion on The Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) with panellists from Scotland Food &

Drink, Filshill and Loch Lomond Brewery; Visit Scotland will speak on the visitor experience; packaging and shop design will be explained by Julie Mills, The Shrewd Foodie; leading food and gift Scottish influencers will be part of a panel on ‘The Future of Influencers and working with them; and the Loves Local campaign will deliver their latest initiatives.

Nessie’s Den will be there to entertain with emerging suppliers showcasing their products to respected retailers in a lighthearted session. The Nessies are

Adam Hardie, Head of Food & Drink, Johnston Carmichael; Emma Niven, Loch Leven’s Larder and Angus Bell, Scottish Buyer, Morrisons Supermarkets.

The Best Product Awards from the Show will be judged by leading food retailers, restauranteurs and supermarket buyers and the winners will be displayed in the heart of the Show.

Emma Niven from Loch Leven’s Larder, and one of the ‘Nessies’ on Tues 24 Jan said: “In times of challenging austerity our customers will scrutinise every pound spent, so it is ever more important that we underline our provenance which is why we like to source at Scotland’s Speciality Food Show. The quality of produce, where it is from, and the integrity of the production methods are our USP, and unless we can maintain that trust with our customer we will be outdone by the multiples. Supporting local not only strengthens our brand but also addresses a lot of the climate/carbon concerns that our customer base is challenged by.”

Scotland’s Speciality Food Show is run in conjunction with Scotland’s Trade Fair, which has evolved over the decades to become a ‘must attend’ event in the calendar of all retailers, farm shops, tourist destinations and department stores. Many of the producers only exhibit at this Show so it is key to come and see and taste their products and place orders ahead of the competition.

Claire Rennie from Summerhouse Drinks said: “You cannot underestimate how good and important it is to see customers face to face at a Show and engage with new ones. The quality of buyers at Scotland’s Speciality Food Show is great and we always have a good show.”

Show Director Mark Saunders said: “One thing Scotland’s Speciality Food Show always offers is a wide variety of innovative products from around the land. So whether you’re after biscuits, unusual spirits, ice cream, savoury sauces or

a traditional jam, there will be something there for every buyer. Large stands from the country’s food distributors are another

focus of originality as they will showcase products from any number of small producers. This Show is not to be missed as a

major buying opportunity for the fine food industry so we look forward to welcoming you in Glasgow on 22 January.”

Planning system change provides

‘remarkable’ step forward for renewables industry

National Planning Framework 4 revised draft welcomed

A new planning system designed by The Scottish Government has been described as “a remarkable and major step forward” by Scotland’s renewable energy industry.

National Planning Framework 4, a revised draft of which was released this week, seeks to “encourage, promote and facilitate all forms of renewable energy development onshore and offshore”.

This latest revised draft will be considered by the Scottish Parliament, with MSPs set to vote on its adoption before the end of the year.

Mark Richardson, Senior Policy Manager at industry body

Scottish Renewables, said that in contrast to previous versions the revised draft “clearly shows how The Scottish Government expects renewable energy developments to be treated by planners across Scotland.”

Mark continued: “Scotland has rightly recognised the emergency facing our climate. We have an ambitious net-zero target and our transition to a clean energy system is well underway.

“To realise a Scotland powered by renewable energy we need to ensure that all levers of government are focused on tackling the climate emergencythis must mean achieving a net-

zero-driven planning system. The NPF4 planning reforms provide a key opportunity to deliver this ambition.

“The Scottish Government has shown with this revised draft that it has carefully listened to the advice of industry and understood the barriers which for too long have stood in the way of sustainable development which contributes not only to mitigating the effects of climate change but also to the economic prosperity of some of the country’s most remote areas.

“This revised draft clearly shows how The Scottish Government expects renewable energy developments to be

by industry body

treated by planners across Scotland, and is a remarkable and major step forward from the system which exists in Scotland today.”

While welcoming National Planning Framework 4, Scottish Renewables has cautioned against complacency.

Mark added: “Although National Planning Framework 4 provides the framework for development, it is crucial that the planning system is properly resourced so that the increasing number of planning applications which will need to be processed as we move towards a net-zero energy system can be assessed in a timely manner.”

Norwegian Minister of Petroleum and Energy raises Vianode flag at site of new battery materials plant

Norwegian Minister of Petroleum and Energy Terje Aasland recently visited the site of Vianode’s first industrial-scale plant for sustainable battery materials at Herøya Industripark in Norway.

Aasland was welcomed by Vianode’s general manager Stian Madshus, together with representatives from Elkem, Hydro and Altor as well as local government officials, and raised Vianode’s flag at the site.

Vianode, owned by Elkem, Hydro and Altor, produces advanced battery materials with a greener footprint. The company will invest around NOK 2 billion to create new industrial jobs and provide critical battery materials. The investment is an important step towards establishing a complete battery value chain in Norway for the European market.

Through the plans at Herøya, Vianode plans to recruit around

100 new employees, contributing to local value creation and around 300 jobs related to the green transition including ripple effects.

“Today we raise the flag for Vianode and the significance this project can have for industrial development in the Telemark region and the development of new, profitable, green jobs in all of Norway. If we are to succeed – and we are – we have to

cooperate well. That is why I am particularly pleased that Elkem, Hydro and Altor are working together on this investment, which is now entering a new phase. We will support the development we see at Herøya and the rest of the country. This government’s goal is clear: Norway shall be an attractive host country for sustainable and profitable activities through the entire battery value chain and

renewable energy

attract the big gigafactories,” says Terje Aasland, Norway’s Minister of Petroleum and Energy.

The industrial plant at Herøya, Norway, will produce anode graphite for about 20,000 electric vehicles (EVs) per year by 2024. This investment is the first phase in a larger investment plan. The plant construction will be carried out in parallel with preparations for a second phase plant scaled to provide battery materials to 2 million EVs per year by 2030, covering a significant share of the global EV market.

“The establishment of an industrial-scale plant for sustainable battery materials at Herøya represents a historic step for Vianode and its owners. Based on strong support from owners Elkem, Hydro and Altor,

Vianode has a solid foundation to succeed with building industrial leadership in advanced battery materials with a green footprint. To succeed in Norway requires competitive framework conditions, and in that context we appreciate today’s visit to learn more about our activities and plans,” says Asbjørn Søvik, Vianode’s interim CEO and executive chair of the board.

The graphite materials from Vianode are produced with up to 90 percent lower CO2 emissions than today’s standard materials. The materials have unique performance characteristics and improve the properties in batteries, including faster charging, increased range and longer service life, as well as increased safety and recyclability.

Hills across the UK can be transformed into renewable

“batteries”

mountains. It means that there are thousands of potential hydropower sites across the UK that could be used for energy storage – as many as 6,500 sites, according to the company’s own analysis.

Rising costs are putting pressure on many farming businesses. Typical warning signs include overdrafts and credit accounts creeping upwards with difficulties meeting regular payments.

The preparation of a simple cashflow can go a long way to identifying any future issues.

Take the time to list future cash inflows including:

• Future sales of stock and crops.

• VAT receipts, subsidies and asset sales.

• Off-farm or other income sources.

• Any outstanding sales which have yet to paid.

When listing outgoings, consider:

• Current invoices unpaid or not yet received.

allocating each item of income and expenditure across the months ahead using a simple spreadsheet, or table. Using the current bank balance as a starting point, peaks and troughs will be shown, highlighting the problem periods. Key areas to consider:

• Matching expenditure with projected income.

• Can sales be brought forward, or can purchases and payments be delayed?

• Do loan and finance payment match cash inflow?

Talking is key - speak early to suppliers and lenders about tailoring payments to a more appropriate time for the business.

RheEnergise has developed a system that adapts one of the oldest forms of energy storage, hydropower, to store and release electricity from slopes rather than requiring steep dam walls and

RheEnergise’s development of its technology has received grant support from the UK and Canadian governments and is shortly to commence a crowdfunding campaign via the Crowdcube platform.

For further information, please visit www.rheenergise.com / twitter @rheenergise

• Future input and trading expenditure.

• VAT or tax liabilities.

• Hire purchase and loan repayments and interest.

• Household bills, or drawings paid by the business.

The cashflow projection can then be mapped out,

Is the lack of cash purely down to timing? If there is an overall deficit, is the spike in input prices merely a temporary blip to an inherently profitable business or are there deeper fundamental issues at play? Deficits need to be addressed at some point to ensure there is adequate working capital going forward. Drilling down to find the root causes of why cash is tight is key to looking at potential solutions in the short and long term.

energy

RheEnergise, a UK clean technology company, wants to partner farmers across the UK to deploy their pioneering hydropower-like energy storage system, alongside their existing or future renewable energy assets, such as wind and solar farms. By doing so, RheEnergise offers farmers greater energy security and a new long-term source of income.

Vaderstad’s new German demonstration farm hosts launch of latest cultivation kit

Vaderstad’s new demonstration farm recently hosted the launch of a new Cultus HD tined cultivator, the Carrier XL 725 disc cultivator and Carrier XL 725.

Located just outside Helmstedt in Niedersachsen, German, the 50ha farm and an 800m2 machine hall, will be used to carry out field trials and internal training, as well as host machinery demonstrations and launches.

The new tine cultivator Cultus HD is available in 4.25m and 5.25m mounted models and boasts depth precision and high field performance. It can work down to 30cm and is equipped with three tine axles with a spacing of 27cm.

New heavy-duty Cultus HD tines have a release force up to 680kg ensuring depth is maintained in a full range of conditions. To avoid damage, the tine is able to fully release out of the soil to pass an obstacle and quickly returns to its original working position.

The depth is set from the cab and is equipped with a hydraulic wing lock and the new unique automatic leveller adjustment system Dynamic Control to enhance performance. Cultus HD can be fitted with a full range of

high-quality Väderstad points and MixIn shins and will go into full production in the autumn of 2023.

Also available now is the new disc cultivator Carrier XL 725. With a 7.25m working width it sits in the middle of the existing range that spans 4.25m to 12.25m. This model is available with 510mm TrueCut discs, CrossCutter Disc or the new CrossCutter Disc Aggressive. And to suit different farming needs, it can be equipped with a full range of front tools, packer options as well as the small seeder BioDrill 360. The Carrier XL 425-725 range has several frame enhancements, including strengthened packer parallel linkage. To guide the operator, all models are now fitted with new visible scales for both the working depth and the front tool depth.

The wider models, Carrier XL 625 and Carrier XL 725, can

now also be equipped with a new wheel axle as well as 560/45 R22.5 wheels, approved for 40km/h road transport.

Making its debut at the event and available for this autumn too was the new trailed or mounted Carrier XT 425-625 disc cultivator,

Väderstad CrossCutter Aggressive

Väderstad CrossCutter Disc Aggressive

Väderstad Cultus HD 525-625

used for high-speed primary tillage and seedbed preparation. Hydraulically rotating disc axles and both single and double packer options means it can handle all the versatile challenges of modern farming.

The new high-quality Swedish V-55 disc enables Carrier XT to optimize the cut-out performance at shallow depth, while increasing the depth precision at deeper working depths. It can either be fitted with the 450mm disc, 470mm TrueCut disc or the ultrashallow CrossCutter Disc and new CrossCutter Disc Aggressive. With sharpened TrueCut cut outs, the new disc provides higher penetration capability in challenging field conditions, such as where there are heavy residues.

It can still operate at ultrashallow working depths of 2-5 cm and will move substantially less soil than a conventional disc. This means less fuel used while maintaining a high working speed and intensive mixing.

range of disc cultivators, as well as 510mm for a working depth of 3-5cm with Carrier XL. Both can be operated at working speeds of

up to 20km/hr. Each CrossCutter Disc is individually mounted to its own rubber suspended disc arm so it follows the ground contour.

The CrossCutter Disc Aggressive comes in two sizes: 450mm intended for a working depth of 2-3cm with the Carrier

Väderstad Carrier XL 725

Slurry Management

G T Bunning and Sons show tyre option for spring applications

The

Maelstorm

range from Harry West

G T Bunning and Sons returned to LAMMA showing a spreader equipped with a large diameter, narrow tyre aimed at farmers wanting to reduce crop damage when spring top dressing.

Bunning showed three machines at LAMMA and the Lowlander 120 HY HBD features a set of Alliance 580/85 R42 IF tyres, offering a longer tread pattern and bringing the machine’s overall width down to 2,820mm. Being a Hybrid machine, it features the wider spreading design from the larger models, which improves the shredding of cattle muck for greater accuracy, and weigh cells for rate control.

This tyre option helps farmers retain the flotation benefits of IF tyres and is better suited to tramline widths when travelling through growing crops. Ben Johnson, UK and Ireland sales manager for G T Bunning and Sons, says it will appeal for several reasons.

“The 120 HY HBD model on the stand allows a 19.1cu m load due to the built-in flared side

extensions, but crucially features a shorter wheelbase than the bigger Lowlander 150 model, so it will lessen crop damage when turning on the headlands. We are seeing more customers wanting to top-dress in the spring, so the narrower tyres and shorter machine offers good output whilst reducing crop damage.”

Elsewhere on the stand, the company also showed two further models. A 120 HY TVA that features the recently redesigned large diameter bottom spreading blades for increased accuracy. This machine will also be equipped with weigh cells, which allows the operator to set a target rate for precise applications of products. A smaller 105 TVA was also exhibited, aimed at smaller farms wishing to utilise their own manures.

“Demand for accurately applying organic manures continues to grow and our range of spreaders and technology can help to reduce input costs through precise spreading,” concludes Mr Johnson.

Harry West (Prees) machinery can offer our customers two types of products to transport and dispose of their farmyard waste. The machines able to cope with fresh, well-rotted or semi solid farmyard manure. With the West Dual spreader range, we can move liquid and semi solid material as the unit is a sealed container and prevents spillage when in transport. The West Maelstrom rear discharge spreader gives us an alternative process that can handle much heavier material, compost, or waste products and limited wetter material

The Dual spreader is the farmers favourite, a versatile machine giving flexibility in its handling of various materials. The high-speed rigid impellor positively spreads up to 21m from the machine, with the

close coupled impellor at the front ensuring good distribution of slurry. The machine comes with a continuous mechanical oscillating side plate to eliminate blocking and bridging assisted by a large control door. The steep sided body design eases the operation of all materials.

The Maelstorm range gives us a well-balanced line up of rear discharge spreaders. Capacities ranging from 8M³ to 18M³and an optional rear container door we can offer a tailor-made machine to suit both farmers and contractors. The twin rear vertical rotating beaters operate at a powerful 400rpm from the PTO drive input of 1000 rpm. The flared double tip blades offer an excellent process to macerate the manure giving a much better spread both in consistency and coverage.

New high capacity compact tanker from Hi Spec

Hi-Spec Engineering were back at LAMMA exhibiting a range of products, including a new addition to their popular and well proven vacuum tanker range.

The new Hi-Spec TS-R tanker is available in a range of capacities from 2,000 up to 4,000 gallons. The tanker body is fully supported and is carried on a commercial tandem-axle, fitted with 710/50-R26.5 tyres with semi-recessed mudguards.

The combination of narrower width but lower rolling

resistance tyres to keep soil compaction to a minimum and the semi-recessed mudguard design has the benefit that overall width and height are reduced, making the TS-R a more nimble tanker and ideal for use where operating space is restricted.

As standard, the Hi-Spec TS-R is fitted with a sprung drawbar with swivel hitch and the barrel is made from 6mm British steel and incorporates internal baffles and antiimplosion rings. Also standard is a powerful Jurop pump and the TS-R can be specified with a wide range of filling options.

Spreading options for the TS-R include the Hi-Spec Trailing Shoe applicator, which

is available in working widths of 7.5, 9.0 and 10.5 metres. Alternatively there is the 7.5 metre wide Hi-Spec Dribble Bar, which folds down to just 2.55 metres for transport.

In addition, also on display will be a Hi-Spec SA-R (single axle recessed) tanker. Capacities on the 6-model SA-R models are from 1,350 gallons up to 3,000 gallons. All SA-R models are fitted with commercial brakes and the show model is on 750/60 R30.5 Alliance 181D tyres. The tanker body is built from 6mm thick British steel, is fitted with a Jurop vacuum pump and incorporates internal implosion rings. The show model was also fitted with a Vogelsang Blackbird trailing shoe applicator.

XCEL 1250 spreader

Also on the Hi-Spec stand was the Hi-Spec XCEL 1250 rear discharge spreader. Unlike other rear discharge spreaders, the XCEL 1250 is unique in that it uses a combination of a shredding rotor fitted with 22 heavy duty chains with 12mm Hardox flail heads. These are mounted under a 4mm Hardox hood that shreds all the material to an even consistency which is then spread by two spreading rotors. An

adjustment plate on the shredding rotor hood evenly places the manure onto the spreading discs to ensure an even spread.

The Xcel 1250 has the capability to achieve an even spread pattern up to 24 metres. It has a capacity of 12 tonnes, typical discharge time is 3-5 minutes and it is able to spread all types of material such as farmyard manure, sludge cake, muck lime, wood mulch and chicken compost.

The Mastek range

Mastek offer a range of dribble bars and trailing shoe applicators to fit tankers of all makes and sizes. The companies

most popular machine is the 7.5m Professional Universal Dribble Bar weighing in at only 450kg. This machine simply

replaces the slurry tankers existing door meaning fitting is quick and simple. Mastek pride themselves on being able to fit this machine to any make of tanker rear door. The machine features sprung break away and stone trap as standard. This machine is very popular on tankers from 1300 gallon up to 3000 gallon. On larger tankers 3000 gallon and above Mastek offer the Hybrid Dribble Bar. This machine can feature 3 or 4 point linkage or can be bolted to the chassis of any suitable tanker. This machine is available in widths of 10 or 12m and features hydraulic accumulator break away and a junction box as standard which allows filling points to be fitted to the rear of the machine. If you prefer the idea of Trailing Shoe Mastek offer the 7.5m Micro Trailing Shoe. This machine

is fixed to the tanker using fixed brackets and features a clever sequencing valve which unfolds the arms then tilts them to the ground all on the same hydraulic circuit. This machine also comes with a junction box to allow filling points to be fitted

to the rear of the trailing shoe. The micro shoe features the company’s “Micro SuperCut” macerator, this is proving to be a very compact yet reliable macerator. Mastek’s own award winning “SuperCut” and “Micro SuperCut” macerators

are designed to handle long fibre and debris by using 6 unique V-shaped cutting discs to shear long fibre and plastic. Each hose outlet has a oneway air valve, this gives an even flow and helps to prevent blockages.

Infrastructure grant supports bagging slurry

DEFRA recently announced the first round of ‘slurry infrastructure grants’ for applications from December 6th 2022 to January 31st 2023. The application window will enable farms needing to extend slurry storage to meet the six-month storage target and gain up to 50% towards new storage equipment.

The grants are primarily aimed at reducing the impact of slurry emissions and agriculture’s contribution to increasing greenhouse gas emissions. Advocated by DEFRA are bag tanks which will be supported by grant funding and offer a complete solution to storing, agitating and managing slurry.

Slurry specialist Tramspread has been installing bag tanks

for 20 years and has welcomed DEFRA’s support for the technology. Tramspread’s John Tydeman says:

“Depending on location, bag tanks can often be installed without planning permission. The tanks sit low to the ground, have capacities up to 7500m³, feature integral stirrers and suction/delivery pipes. We import and install Albers Alligator bag tanks which only need groundworks similar to a shallow lagoon with sloping sides and base. This design enables the bag tank to be easily filled and fully emptied at any time.”

The grants will also cover the installation of above ground storage such as steel and stainless steel tanks. These offer farms, with less space close to livestock housing, the opportunity to increase slurry storage and in some cases incrementally add to the size of the tank.

“Stallkamp tanks can be extended using additional stainless steel rings. A more costeffective option is the Agritank. Both are covered by the slurry infrastructure grant. However, unlike a bag tank, both will require planning permission,” adds Mr Tydeman.

To qualify for funding, all storage tanks must have an impermeable cover which will add to the cost of steel tanks that require a textile or floating cover.

“Textile covers can be costly whereas a floating solution like Hexa-Cover will be considerably cheaper. Whilst floating tile covers are not covered by the grants, it may still be a cheaper option for some farms,” he says.

The grant will also fund items necessary for the basic functioning of new or expanded slurry stores, such as reception

pits, slurry pumps and agitators. A fixed contribution towards the cost of slurry storage will be calculated using DEFRA’s

standard costings which see £19.27 per m³ contributed for a bag tank with liner and £31.50 per m³ for a steel tank.

Vogelsangs’ press screw separator

Vogelsang GmbH & Co. KG launched a press screw separator in 2022. The mechanical engineering company introduced it at the in-house trade fair “Gülle Professional Days”, alongside other innovations for efficient liquid manure management. “To remain cost-effective despite the significant degree of regulation, our customers are increasingly relying on economical use of valuable liquid manure, including

optimal nutrient placement. With this goal in mind, we are constantly developing our portfolio and have now added separation technology,” says Harald Vogelsang, Managing Director of Vogelsang GmbH & Co. KG.

The XSplit press screw separator allows farmers and biogas plant operators to optimally separate the liquid manure and digestate for spreading and further use. Vogelsang has taken the tried

and tested method of solidliquid separation and redesigned the technology behind it. The

drive is located at the solids outlet and not, as is customary on the market, at the inflow of

the raw medium. The advantage: liquid cannot get into the drive and therefore a shaft seal is no longer necessary. This reduces

maintenance effort and costs. In addition, the QuickService concept enables direct access to the screen and screw press.

The pros and cons of doing business in the Highlands, and what can be done to overcome the problems

of distance-to-market

By Malcolm Morrison

Highland Region is one of the most beautiful places in Europe, with a wild, majestic grandeur and, at 10,085 square miles, it is easily the largest council area in Scotland, nearly four times the size of the next biggest.

It is also one of the most sparsely populated, and the demographic shrinkage is far from over, making it a hugely challenging place to conduct business on any really meaningful scale. It is instructive that the main employers are the NHS and the council.

But business loves a challenge and despite obstacles such as distance-to-market which would deter all but the boldest, there are many enterprises taking up the gauntlet and creating viable enterprises which provide muchneeded quality employment.

So, what are the pros and cons of the current business environment in this unique landscape and what could be done to turbo-charge commercial activity in a positive and sustainable way?

The Pros:

• Although the pool of potential clients is small, if they are

supplied and serviced in a fair and appropriate manner, they tend to be intensely loyal.

• The opportunity for a circular economy. Firms appreciate the benefits of co-operation and collaboration and the cost savings to be made by sourcing locally.

• A very good labour force which seizes on employment opportunity in an area where quality jobs are hard to find.

The Cons:

• The primary challenge is the cost of energy. Petrol and diesel have always been more expensive in Highland and the latest significant jumps in gas and electricity prices have made for testing times.

• It is a small population to supply, and margins are much lower than in the south of England. The cost of acquiring goods means that most people have to look after the pennies.

• Resources are limited. It is a less-favoured area

with a rugged and largely unproductive landscape.

This last point, though, shows how looking at available resources in a positive way can reap dividends. Though the land is poor, trees grow at a prodigious rate and we have built a thriving timber and renewables business with some of the most up-to-date processing equipment on the market.

The goal is to add value to every product and we have just invested heavily in treatment and preservation plant to allow us to supply the construction industry, as well as briquette equipment to utilise the sawdust by-product. Soon we will have an online shop to meet national demand.

But there are many things which could be done to make the costs of doing business in this remote area more acceptable, such as improving the transport network. The main artery is the A9, alongside which runs the railway.

Highland remains home to many of Scotland’s surviving

single track roads and, though many roads have been improved, there needs to be a greater provision of east-to-west links, natural barriers permitting.

Fast broadband is a business essential now, but connection with decent speeds is still very mixed in areas such as Sutherland. We are looking at connecting to Elon Musk’s Starlink, which unlocks excellent speeds pretty much anywhere.

Highland Council, Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) do excellent work but they could do more to identify opportunities for everyone and encourage businesses to leverage off each other and seek out joint ways of working.

If the pandemic taught business one lesson, it is that working together for mutual practical advantage is better than guerre à outrance over crumbs. With goodwill on all sides, Highland could be a great example of this philosophy.

Malcolm Morrison is a Director at Sutherland-based GMG Energy.

to market

Why buy an AGREX Mobile Drier?

AGREX mobile driers are now being distributed by Thorburn Group and Perry of Oakley and here’s why they should be your mobile drier of choice.

Models from 7.5 to 25T have the unique feature of an external auger which means that access for servicing is easier, especially if there is a problem when the drier is full, and it is quicker to collapse down if moving the drier. With no centre auger the heated airflow is more uniform in the cone plenum. This increases performance and provides more uniform drying. In addition no heat is transferred to the centre auger which means less fuel usage.

The external auger also allows the drier to have an independent mixer in the bottom and a control slide to control the rate of grain mixing during the drier process.

There are fewer motors which means more reliability and a smaller electrical requirement which can be a very important consideration for some farms.

They feature semi-automatic or fully automatic control panels to allow unattended operation and remote connectivity via a mobile data network.

The mobile driers will be fully supported in the UK by Thorburn Group in the North and Perry of Oakley throughout the rest of the country. This will combine the Thorburn Group’s significant mobile drier experience to the decades of grain drying experience at Perrys.

AGREX have been in the UK for some years. A good example of this is Hawthorns Estate Farm

who purchased a 20T AGREX Mobile Drier back in 2017. To keep pace with demand, after a year this was upgraded to an AGD45, a 34T model with PLC control and full automation to enable bigger batches to be dried and unattended operation.

Their drier has a 1.5mm mesh so that oil seed rape and all usual combinable crops can be dried. It has a direct fired diesel burner and it is filled and

emptied by 120tph handling equipment with 2 hopper bins for wet storage.

The owner of Hawthorns Estate Farm, Chris Padfield, said “The drier has been straightforward to operate and has not needed any mechanical work to be carried out during its lifetime at the farm, the benefit of the automatic control is the ability to run unattended.”

“We are pleased to know that Perry and Thorburn are representing AGREX driers and have a stock of spare parts and service assistance should we need it so that gives us peace of mind during the harvest period.”

There are AGREX trained support engineers based in the UK along with a stock of spare parts so you can be assured of the level of support available for this range.

Thorburn Group also offer a range of steel frame buildings and fabrication services, and Perry offer a wide range of grain handling, drying and storage machinery so combined the companies can provide you with everything you need to ensure you have all your grain handling, drying and storage needs sorted for a great harvest in 2023.

NORTHERN ISLES News

Under the microscope — again

Orkney has ‘first-class’ livestock transport system as Scottish Government prepares to hold 11-month review

By Mark Harcus

“This project follows a recommendation made by the UK Farm Animal Welfare Committee, to review how journey times at sea should be treated, either as ‘neutral time’ as it is now, or alternatively as rest or travel time.

“This year-long project will look at the welfare impacts on livestock undergoing these journeys, with a view to inform future animal welfare policy.”

confidence that the industry had nothing to fear.

“This issue was covered extensively only last year, during a lengthy consultation process, which we thought would be the end of the matter,” said Mr Sandison, of Millburn Farm in Harray.

A review of the current arrangements that regulate the shipping of livestock from Orkney and Shetland to the Scottish mainland is set to take place.

Following a recommendation by the UK Farm Animal Welfare Committee, the Scottish Government is in the early stages of a project which will investigate and inform consideration of possible future changes to animal transport, and how journey times at sea should be treated.

It will come as a disappointing body blow for the industry, less than 12 months on from two separate government consultations, which sparked huge concern for the very future and viability of Orkney’s biggest industry.

Eventually, the Scottish Government confirmed that no

changes would be enforced, to the relief of Orkney’s agricultural industry.

A contract notice for tenders for a 11-month project, running from February to December, 2023, which will explore the effect of sea vessel movements on cows and sheep, has now been issued on the Public Contract Scotland website.

In the description of the contract notice, it is recognised that livestock movements are “essential to the economic viability of livestock production in the Northern Isles” and anything to disrupt this trade or involve additional costs would be “highly sensitive”.

A Scottish Government spokesperson said: “The Scottish Government takes animal welfare very seriously.

The current specific “cassette” system was introduced 20 years ago and sees livestock transported into specially designed transport containers — known as “cassettes.”

The containers ensure welfare is maintained during transit, providing suitable arrangements for bedding, drainages, feed and water, ventilation and inspection.

A key area of investigation for the proposed project is to review the concept of “neutral time.”

Currently, the time in the cassette system is classed as “neutral time” rather than rest or travel time for the purposes of livestocktransport legislation.

This interpretation was questioned by the UK Farm Animal Welfare Committee, which recommended a review should take place.

Noting the early stage of the process, the president of the Orkney branch of the NFU, Steven Sandison, expressed his

“We are very fortunate to have a first-class system for the transportation of our stock to the mainland. It’s in everyone’s interest to have the stock transported in the very best conditions.

“If there should be a review sometime in the future, I’m very confident it will only confirm what we already know.”

In the ten years that Serco NorthLink Ferries has operated, the company has carried and transferred 1.4million sheep and 265,000 cattle.

The outcome of ferry journeys in the cassette system for animals in different weather and sea conditions has been monitored by APHA and local authority inspectors since it was introduced and is believed to be generally acceptable, although the Scottish Government says that anecdotally animals can sometimes appear tired when they arrive after particularly rough crossings.

The Scottish Government says that more formalised monitoring of the temperature within the cassettes, humidity and

President of the Orkney branch of the NFU Steven Sandison, who says the current arrangements for transporting animals is “first-class.”

vessel movements experienced by the animals during different weather and sea states, and any effect of these on the condition and behaviour of animals after arrival on these commercial journeys, would provide more reliable information to inform a review of the “neutral time” interpretation.

Researchers will be expected to familiarise themselves with the cassette system, and liaise with NorthLink Ferries and other key stakeholders to secure their cooperation.

This work would include gathering information on typical current journeys, including the numbers and classes of livestock being carried on different routes, journey times, and the range

of weather and sea conditions experienced throughout the year.

There would be a steering group meeting to agree the approach to be taken to further work after this initial scoping.

However, the project has raised questions for a concerned Liam McArthur.

After being approached for comment, Orkney’s MSP said of the crucial importance of the transport of livestock in the isles.

“This must, of course, meet the highest animal welfare standards, which is what the local sector has worked hard to achieve over the years as part of successful efforts to build a strong reputation for quality.”

He said that further restrictions on livestock transport, as

proposed in the UK Government consultation last year, would have brought farming in Orkney “to a standstill.”

“There was no evidence to back these proposals and, in the face of opposition from farmers, vets and politicians from all parties, the plans were thankfully dropped,” said Mr McArthur.

“It is a concern, therefore, to see the Scottish Government now looking to carry out work of their own on very similar proposals. While ministers appear to recognise that “anything that would disrupt [livestock transport] or involve additional costs is highly sensitive” this is unlikely to allay fears that such restrictions will be introduced regardless.

“The sector in the Northern Isles will always be open to looking at ways in which farming methods and practices can be improved. They have a track record to back this up. However, you don’t improve farming in the islands by effectively shutting it down.

“I have been in touch with the cabinet secretary to highlight my concerns and will be following this up next week when Parliament returns after the October recess.”

Sheep livestock caption: Over the last ten years, 1.4million sheep and 265,000 cows have been transported from the Northern Isles to the Scottish mainland in the current “cassette” system. However, a 12-month project is set to review the current arrangements and the classification of “neutral” time.

Sheep scab warning on Shetland

Around a tenth of sheep imported to the isles recently have suffered from sheep scab – serving as a “wake-up call” to animal health staff.

Blood testing results indicate eight per cent of sheep entering Shetland have tested positive for sheep scab at the pier, while a further five per cent have tested as suspicious for the condition. The concerning results have been described as “much higher than expected” – and prompted a reminder for continued use of new dipping facilities at the marts, even if that does mean incurring a financial burden.

Animal health research officer Lyall Halcrow said dipping remained important to help maintain Shetland’s excellent animal health record. “This import season, blood testing results

indicate that eight per cent of sheep have tested positive and five per cent have tested suspicious for sheep scab at the pier,” he said.

“The test demonstrates exposure to sheep scab and possible presence of sheep scab mites and infectivity.

“This proportion is much higher than expected, and shows it is important that everyone is especially mindful when importing sheep.”

He added: “We were expecting one per cent of sheep would test positive. It is a high figure. It is a wake-up call.”

Earlier this year, 10,000 potential contact sheep across Shetland were dipped following the first case of sheep scab in the isles since 1994.

Environmental health says this was most likely due

to mites on an imported ram beingresistant to the injectable product used at the pier.

Mr Halcrow added: “Resistance and lack of efficacy reports for the injectable is on the rise in the UK and Scotland, and dipping is the only effective treatment against these resistant mites. In response, Shetland Livestock Marketing Group (SLMG) opened the new dipping facility for imported sheep in September.

Mr Halcrow said the “vast majority of importers” have been presenting their sheep this year.

But he warned against complacency and said it was important they continue to use the sheep-dip.

“Dipping is the only way we can ensure Shetland is kept free of sheep scab, so please ensure

In association with

www.shetlandtimes.co.uk

Tel: 01595 742000

your sheep are either dipped on import, or discuss with your vet if you plan to have sheep dipped prior to importation.”

The blood test screening has been funded by Livestock Health Scotland and administered by the Shetland Animal Health Scheme and Shetland Vets.

www.orcadian.co.uk

Tel: 01856 879000

Beatha an eilean

Feumaidh croitearachd barrachd taic bhon Riaghaltas

Le Murray MacLeòid

Dh’iarr Caidreachas Croitearachd na h-Alba barrachd fiosrachaidh mu ciamar a tha Riaghaltas na h-Alba dol a chleachdadh an cuid cumhachdan son obair àiteachais beaga a chuideachadh.

Seo am prìomh teachdaireachd a bha ann am freagairt na buidhne ris a’ cho-chomhairleachadh air Bile Aiteachais ùr. Bha an ceann ùidhe ann aig toiseach na mìos.

Thuirt cathraiche na buidhne, Domhnall MacFhionghuin: “Thairis nam bliadhnachan tha iomadach buidheann mar sinn fhèin air uine mhòr a chaitheamh agus oidhirp mhòr a dhèanamh ann a bhith tighinn an airde le molaidhean mionaideach.

“Tha sinn a rèisd gu math tàmailteach gu bheil a’ chochomhairleachadh a tha seo, sia bliadhna as dèidh na Roinn Eòrpa fhàgail, dìreach a’ togail ceistean a tha gu math farsaing a-thaobh dè na cumhachdan a tha dhìth son taic cheart a thoirt dha àiteachas.

“Tha sinne a-nis a’ feumach plana cruaidh bho Riaghaltas na h-Alba son dèanamh cinnteach gun deach èisteachd a thoirt ri beachdan chroitearan a-thaobh ciamar a thig an taic a dhealbh agus mar a thig a chur an sàs.”

Chaidh structur de cheitheir ìrean a mholadh: gnothaichean a chuidicheas le bhith gearradh sios air atharrachadh na sìde; nàdar ath-stèidheachadh; àrach biadh aig àrd ìre agus leasachadh na coimhearsnachdan dùthchail.

“Tha an Caidreachas gu mòr airson taic a thoirt dha croitearan is tuathanaich airson obair na h-àrainneachd agus obair soisealta a chur air dòigh,” thuirt Mgr MacFhionghuin.

“Ach, tha sinn draghail nach tig sgeamaichean a dhealbh a bhios freagarrach dha croitearan. Feumaidh gach duine sa ghnìomhachas cothrom na fèine fhaighinn air an airgead airson dèanamh cinnteach gum faigh croitearan air an obair mhath a tha iad a’ dèanamh a chumail a’ dol.

“Tha seo a’ gabhail a-staigh coimhead as dèidh fearann far a bheil nàdar prìseil, cumail a’ dol le dòighean tradiseanta, àrach biadh math aig ìre ionadail agus a bhith leasachadh coimhearsnachdan dùthchail.

“Bu chòir do taic nas fheàrr dha croitearachd a bhith aig

cridhe a’ Bhile. Feumaidh cùisean le sin a bhith cothromach agus feumaidh sinn bruidhinn mu ciamar a thathas dol a roinn a-mach an airgead.

“Son fada ro fhada tha airgead àiteachais air a bhith taobhachadh cus ri gnìomhachasan mòra. Tha croitearachd a’ coinneachadh ri amasan Riaghaltas na h-Alba. Tha e nise an airde ris an Riaghaltas taic nas fheàrr a thoirt dha croitearachd.”

CHAIDH ainmeachadh gur e Stùbhairt Domhnallach à Asainte Croitear Og na Bliadhna.

Chaidh an duais a thoirt dha aig coinneimh bhliadhnail

Caidreachais Croitearachd na h-Alba anns a’ Ghearasdan.

Tha caoraich, mucan is gobharan aig Stubhairt.

Thuirt Mgr MacFhionguin: “Bha inbhe àrd am measg an fheadhainn a chur a-steach airson an duais, a tha faighinn taic bho Urras MacRaibeairt, am bliadhna.

“Tha e na thogail mhòr a bhith faicinn uimhir de dhaoine òg a’ dèanamh sàr obair air na croitean aca agus bu chòir làn aithne a thoirt dhaibh airson sin.

“Gu deimhinne fhuair na britheamhan na bha iad a’ lorg: spionnadh, iomairt agus obair coimhearsnachd.

“Bhon an raoin farsaing de shàr thagraichean, thagh sinn Stùbhairt airson cho dìchealach agus cho dealasach is a tha e.”

Thuirt Stùbhairt: “‘S e uram mhòr a tha seo agus tha mi dìreach an dòchas gum brosnaich e croitearan òg eile. Chan eil mi buileach cinnteach dè thug orm tòiseachadh ann an croitearachd, thòisich mi dìreach a’ cuideachadh dhaoine eile timcheall an sgìre agus lean e bhon an sin.

“Tha mi an dòchas barrachd stoc fhaighinn agus crodh agus an fheoill a reic gu h-ionadail.”

Thuirt Chris Hockley, àrdoifigear Urras MacRaibeart: “Tha fios am gun robh an fharpais faisg ach tha mi gu sònraichte toilichte gur e Stùbhairt a bhuannaich. Tha e dìcheallach agus làn spionnaidh agus e air tòrr a dhèanamh ann an ùine bheag ann an croitearachd.

“Tha e fìor airidh air an duais agus mi cur gach beannachd air.”

Agriculture bill must deliver unwavering commitment to farming and crofting or face failure

Comment from NFU Scotland

Scottish Government must quickly fill alarming policy void faced by farmers and crofters to restore confidence levels

NFU Scotland is calling for an immediate, clear, and unwavering commitment from Scottish Government that future policy, as defined by the Agriculture Bill, will underpin agricultural activity and Scotland’s iconic food and drink sector.

In its 55-page response to the Scottish Government’s consultation on a new Agriculture Bill that will define Scottish agricultural policy from 2025 onwards, the Union has issued the stark warning that if the pursuit of a misplaced vision is all that matters to Scottish Government, then Scotland’s future ‘agricultural support’ policy will fail.

While the consultation is largely about delivering the necessary powers for a new policy via a new Bill, it has failed to fill the alarming policy void that farmers and crofters currently face. Uncertainty over support levels and new schemes from 2025 onwards is simply compounding the severe volatility and extreme uncertainty already affecting so many producers in Scotland.

As a result, and in the disappointing absence of any specific policy options from the Scottish Government, NFU Scotland has used the consultation to set out its current and clear preferences as to how the future support framework can best be used to ensure sustainable and profitable farm business drive agricultural activity and production –thereby ensuring there will be no contradiction between high quality food production and producing it in a way that delivers for climate, nature and rural communities.

Author of the response from NFU Scotland, Director of Policy Jonnie Hall said: “The context and validity of Scottish Government’s vision for agriculture has changed dramatically. Its vision has been rapidly overtaken by circumstances that are severely challenging future food security. Spiralling costs are eroding confidence on Scotland’s farms and crofts. What they need, and what the proposals in the Bill fail to properly deliver, is clarity on how they will be supported in the future.

“Agricultural production must be front and centre of any vision for Scottish agriculture,

or indeed any vision for land use in Scotland, and the policy intended to deliver that vision. That message was delivered loud and clear to Scotland’s politicians when hundreds of farmers and crofters joined the #FoodNeedsAFarmer rally outside Holyrood last month. Ensuring sustainable and profitable agricultural businesses is the only route to delivering all required outcomes.

“Climate, nature, and wider rural development issues must be addressed, but policies cannot and will not be successful if they disregard the needs of Scottish agriculture. Farmers and crofters need a future support regime in Scotland that supports agricultural output together with practical measures to help cut emissions and enhance biodiversity. The new Agriculture Bill, and how its powers are used, must enable this but detail on how that will be achieved is severely lacking.

“We welcome and support the intended shift to a new fourtier structure of future support, a structure initiated by the Union in the publication of our ‘Steps to Change’ document in March 2018. However, the Scottish Government must be clearer as to how and to what

degree ‘conditionality’ will be attached to the direct support elements of Tiers 1 and 2, and what shares of total funding will be allocated to these direct payments Tiers. Equally, questions remain over the scope, function, and content of the indirect support of Tiers 3 and 4 – including their shares overall funding and their means to target support to best effect.

“Disappointingly, some proposals for the new Agriculture Bill set out a route towards increasing layers of additional red tape and additional costs in the pursuit of goals that may add little or nothing to the bottom line of too many agricultural businesses already facing extreme financial pressures. Exposing this generation of farmers and crofters to greater levels of bureaucracy would be a big step backwards.

“It is only with the buy-in of farmers and crofters across Scotland can new primary legislation turn policies into practices that deliver on high quality food production, climate mitigation and adaptation, nature restoration and wider rural development – simultaneously. It is the duty of the Scottish Government to help make that happen.”

Grazing management makes outwintering possible

winter months, and consideration must be given to group size, age and nutritional requirements of the cattle, and infrastructure.

He explains that AHDB calculations suggest the daily dry matter intake requirement for cattle under 300kg liveweight is 3% of their body weight, and 2.5% for animals over 300kg liveweight.

“At FAI, we use a 3% figure for all cattle ages and weights as this allows for some flexibility within the system and means there is a buffer in case of bad weather,” adds Mr HedleyLawrence.

A change in grazing management has helped an Oxfordshire farm successfully outwinter cattle and save almost £25,000 in annual winter housing costs.

FAI Farms is preparing to enter its fourth outwintering season – a move farm manager, Silas Hedley-Lawrence says has been made possible through the use of adaptive multi-paddock (AMP) grazing.

“Thinking about outwintering can evoke images of cows standing in a muddy field, eating silage from feeders and knee deep in mud; but there is an alternative, better approach,” says Mr Hedley-Lawrence.

“Done well, outwintering can help reduce farm costs – by reducing labour, fuel, bedding and machinery use – and improve animal wellbeing and soil health.”

AMP grazing – which involves grazing a high density of livestock in a defined area for a short period of time, followed by long rest periods – is being trialled at FAI as part of a project with McDonald’s UK and Ireland.

Mr Hedley-Lawrence says planning is key, especially in the

“Over winter, cows are grazed in cells – small paddocks marked out by temporary electric fences – with each cell containing four or five round bales of hay, which are placed there during the summer.”

He says once the cattle enter a cell, the bales are rolled out for feeding, rather than put in ring feeders, to prevent crowding and poaching.

“We aim for a minimum of 160 cells, for 160 days, at a size of 0.5ha per cell,” explains Mr Hedley-Lawrence.

“We then calculate the estimated available forage against the daily feed requirement of the group and factor in a 75% utilisation rate on available forage; this indicates the deficit needed to be made up by hay bales.”

Although the system required a £6,800 investment in water infrastructure and mobile electric fencing equipment, Mr HedleyLawrence says the cost savings from not having to house cattle were approximately £24,163 last winter – this is based on housing 75 suckler cows and calves, and 26 heifers for 180 days.

“The soil type at the FAI Farm is a clay loam and it was never considered suitable for

outwintering cattle. However, with some careful planning and regular moves we’ve been able to successfully implement the system on our land, and if we can do it then any farmer can,” adds Mr Hedley-Lawrence.

“Just go out and try it with a small group by planning and doing the maths; you’ll learn from your mistakes and be able to tweak your plan so you are more and more successful each year with more cows.”

Arrowquip adds two new units to its Q-Catch mobile cattle handling range

Controlling the controllables

By Sarah Millar, Chief Executive at Quality Meat Scotland

When we’re firefighting with the immediate issues of an energy crisis and escalating costs of production, it can be difficult to look beyond the day-to-day. Where we can ensure we continue to progress however, is by controlling the controllables. This has been our focus at QMS. We are thinking big picture but keeping our activity simple and targeted. Our consumer campaigns are now 100% digital, as this is where we are seeing the best engagement and allows us to easily flex with changing priorities and attitudes. Our consumer website has undergone comprehensive change to complement this.

A key priority has been meeting with our levy payers and stakeholders. Kate, our Chair, and I had a full summer of events and meetings across the country alongside the team and members of our board have been at the marts throughout the Autumn sales.

We have also dedicated activity with schools around Tasty Little Pork Week and supported the industry initiative to boost consumer sales, Porktober.

The Industry Development team has taken great strides in its work including on meat eating quality and we also continue to progress our DNA project.

In January, we appointed a dedicated Industry Strategy Manager and Public Affairs Manager, Lucy Ozanne. This has paid dividends with a changing policy and regulatory landscape post-Brexit, a new agricultural bill in formation and growing pressure on the industry to respond to the climate crisis.

Arrowquip has added two new products to its extensive Q-Catch mobile cattle handling

range, giving beef and dairy producers more options to improve cattle handling safety

We’ve reformed our standards setting process and standard setting committee structure, based on feedback from the open meetings this summer. In a first step in this, we are offering greater transparency as we review the pig standards, adding in a new stage for producer feedback on the proposed changes before they are formally adopted.

In the year ahead we have some exciting new developments for the Industry Development team and a change of focus following the publication of our Meat Eating Quality report, which we will be announcing early next year. Our marketing campaign has a new message, and nine new Monitor Farms were announced at AgriScot last month.

There is no end to the Ukraine war in sight, and it’s hard to predict what the year ahead will bring, but our core aim at QMS is to ensure that our levy payers have the tools in their toolkit to access high value markets and to operate as best they can.

Sarah Millar

and efficiency anywhere on their farms.

The new units – Q-Catch 748 and Q-Catch 7416 – feature the Q-Catch 74 Series manual squeeze crush along with the Easy Flow Adjustable Cattle Race in one towable unit allowing farmers to transport their cattle handling system anywhere work needs to be done. The 748 features an 8’ Easy Flow Race, while the 7416 gets a longer 16’ race.

Both units are manufactured with a first-grade steel top and bottom frame and feature a tractor tow bar and manual jacks.

A five-year guarantee is standard, with lifetime guarantees on the crush’s rubber floor, rump fingers, squeeze locks and headgate locks.

Key features

The Q-Catch 74 Series is the mid-range cattle crush in the Arrowquip manual squeeze offerings. It features the 3E Q-Catch Head Gate with a vertical bar design that allows light to enter the front of the crush when the gate is closed to draw cattle forward without force. The infinite lock headgate and parallel squeeze will secure

in any position – allowing a small calf or a large bull to be worked on without the need for adjustments. A sliding headgate handle allows the headgate to be operated anywhere along the working side of the crush, enabling operators to run the rear sliding door and headgate simultaneously.

Other features of the Q-Catch 74 Series crush include multiple access points with full-side horizontal opening top and bottom doors which can be pegged together and operated as one, removable top gates, and a drop-down and removable needle

access door for TB testing. It also has a textured rubber floor that features a lifetime guarantee.

The 748 features a single 8’ adjustable race, while the larger 7416 uses two 8’ sections to create a 16’ length. Sheeted sides with removable top blinder panels keep cattle flow moving forward by preventing cattle from being distracted from activity outside the race. A simple pull rope allows the race width to be widened or narrowed to suit different sizes of stock.

An optional weigh platform kit fits within the race and supports Tru-Test and Gallagher loadbars.

Better Grazing project yields impressive results

Improved grassland and grazing management can cut input costs while maintaining, or even improving, cattle growth rates, according to a study.

The three-year Better Grazing project – run by FAI Farms and McDonald’s UK & Ireland – looked at the benefits of improving grassland and grazing management on four beef farms in the McDonald’s supply chain.

Karl Williams, operations director at FAI Farms, says the success of implementing better grazing management was recognised by each farmer involved in the study.

“The benefits have been clearly evidenced by a reduction in purchased feed and synthetic fertiliser, while being able to increase production and output,” adds Mr Williams.

“Better grazing management has also led to farmers feeling more in control and able to take proactive management decisions, which has helped to reduce labour requirements.”

He says grazing management was improved by simplifying systems so that fewer groups of cattle were grazed, meaning more paddocks and fields were available for grazing.

“This reduced the time that paddocks were grazed and improved rest periods, leading to increased pasture growth,” adds Mr Wiliams.

“This meant a reduced need for artificial Nitrogen fertiliser, an extended grazing period, a reduction in purchased feed, and a reduction in the farm’s carbon footprint.”

Project results show a decrease in purchased feed use on the four farms of between 28% and 100%, alongside a decrease in the use of synthetic fertilisers of between 47% and 69%.

The four farms also increased their annual pasture production by as much as 72%, while their cattle showed an increase of up to 43% in daily liveweight gains.

The project results also show that the infrastructure investment required for the project – in electric fencing and water troughs – offered an average return on investment of between 136% and 315%.

One of the farmers involved in the project was Carmarthenshire farm manager Aled Evans from Rest Farm in Whitland, south-west Wales.

The farm finishes 240 cattle a year and Mr Evans has changed

from a five-day grazing period with four groups of cattle at the start of the project, to two groups of cattle moving to a new block of grazing every 24 hours.

The grazing period has increased by 71 days, resulting in the winter housing period reducing from 165 days to 100 days, and daily liveweight gains

have increased from 0.84kg to 0.9kg.

Artificial nitrogen fertiliser applications have been reduced by 90% and the farm’s purchased feed bill has been cut in half.

Mr Evans says: “We’ve managed to reduce our need for expensive purchased inputs,

while providing ourselves with a better quality of life – our working week has reduced from 77 hours to 50 hours even with having more stock during the course of the project. The mindset shift and upskilling required has been a worthy challenge.”

Wynnstay Group Plc acquires Feed Manufacturer and Supplier, Tamar Milling Limited

Wynnstay, the agricultural supplies group, is pleased to announce that it has acquired the entire share capital of Tamar Milling Limited (“Tamar”), a manufacturer and supplier of blended feed products, for an initial consideration of £1.4m, with a deferred consideration of up to £0.1m payable dependent on performance. The acquisition is expected to be immediately earnings enhancing.

Established in 1994, Tamar is based in Whitstone, Cornwall, and manufactures and supplies a range of blended and coarse mix feed rations for dairy cows, cattle, and sheep to approximately 250 farmers, mainly in the southwest of England. Approximately 25,000 tonnes of feed is supplied annually. Tamar also operates a successful ‘on-farm’ grain milling service for farmers wanting to use home-grown or purchased grain in their livestock rations. Following its

acquisition, Tamar’s founder, Nick Furse, will join Wynnstay in a senior commercial feed role and continue to lead Tamar’s operations.

In the year ended 30 September 2021, Tamar generated revenues of £6.40m, and a profit before tax of £0.42m. Net assets at 30 September 2021 were £0.92m.

The acquisition of Tamar is in line with the Group’s strategy of acquiring businesses that complement its existing activities and bring further benefits. Tamar significantly strengthens the Company’s presence in the south-west of England, adds a new farming customer base, additional supply chain relationships and significant cross-selling opportunities. It also establishes Wynnstay with its first feed manufacturing facility in the region, enabling it to provide its own bulk feed offering in the area.

The VET

New beginnings for Madeleine Brady at Northvet…. including this column!

By Madeleine Brady Northvet Veterinary Group

Becoming a director at Northvet has led to a few changes in my life – I have inherited Andy’s desk, his pickup and now it seems this column! So a little to introduce myself, graduating from Sydney University in 2012 I never imagined I would end up as a vet in Orkney. In fact I had never heard much about Orkney until I was trolling the locum job list in 2016. I had come to the UK as a lot of young Aussie vets do – looking for work to finance my trips to Europe. After finding mixed practice in the South East of England lacking in livestock numbers, struggling to come to terms with accents in Lancashire and getting a crash course in lambing yows on the crofts of Strathspey, I pitched up in Orkney – ready to find some

puffins, killer whales and maybe a cow or two! 6 weeks over summer – well you can stand a lot of things for only 6 weeks so I thought why not give it a go!

I wasn’t prepared to fall in love with the place – the light, the beaches, the big skies that reminded me of Oz and of course the farms. The work here is challenging and varied, we are a true mixed practice treating any animal that requires our care. I can go from scanning cows to treating a pet snake, from being in the surgery to jumping on a plane to a far flung island. Orcadian farmers are among the best in the country with livestock to match and I am very lucky to have found my home and future in this beautiful part of Scotland.

Profit from your surplus lambs in 2023 sheep

With UK lamb prices expected to mirror the trend of the last couple of years and remain firm into 2023 due to low domestic supply against solid demand within the EU1, sheep industry commentators believe it will pay Scottish farmers to rear as many healthy lambs as possible come lambing time.

Alan Smith – Volac business manager for Scotland – says that each year every flock will have some lambs that either need to be adopted onto another ewe or be reared off another mother. But deciding which rearing route to take will depend on the availability of a suitable foster mother and the physical condition of the lamb.

“Cross fostering will only be successful if the lamb is fit and healthy, has had adequate colostrum, and is fostered onto a healthy ewe with plenty of milk and good maternal instincts,” he explains.

“However, surplus lambs can be reared very effectively and without all the inherent practical problems of fostering onto an unwilling ewe. With good husbandry, organisation and Lamlac ewe milk replacer, there’s no doubt you can produce good quality lambs to sell in 2023 alongside those reared on any ewe, as well as save hours of effort and hassle.”

How to rear surplus lambs: Choose your feeding system. There are three main options available: bottle feeding, which is very time consuming; or a variety of laboursaving options – for example, ad lib feeding of surplus lambs via a thermostatically controlled milk bucket feeder (such as the Volac Ewe2) or machine feeding using a computerised feeder. The method you choose will often depend on the number of lambs you are rearing and the facilities that you have available.

Ensure all newborn lambs receive adequate colostrum within six hours of birth.

Choose a proven ewe milk replacer. According to the most

recent Volac surplus lamb rearing survey (Dec 2021), 95% of sheep farmers say it is important to see positive independent feeding trial data highlighting the performance of proprietary ewe milk replacer products. For example, specially formulated, trial-proven ewe milk replacer such as Lamlac can be mixed cold and is designed to be a complete diet providing the lamb with all the energy and nutrients it needs. Feeding enough Lamlac alongside fresh water, roughage and small amounts of a good quality creep feed refreshed daily is the key to healthy, profitable growth. A single lamb reared artificially to weaning (at an average of 35 days of age) will require a minimum of 9.5kg of Lamlac (equating to 47.5 litres of reconstituted ewe milk replacer).

Ad-lib feeding of surplus lambs

Alan Smith explains that with ad lib feeding, milk replacer is fed using a teated bucket such as the Volac Ewe2 (for up to 20 lambs) or the Ewe2 Plus (for up to 40 lambs).

“These bucket feeders are thermostatically controlled. We recommend that newborn lambs be started on milk at 30°C, but once they are trained and drinking well the temperature can be reduced to 18-20°C. The amount of milk replacer used is approximately 11-12kg per lamb. The Ewe2 and Ewe2 Plus bucket feeders sit outside the lamb rearing pen, ensuring optimum safety and avoiding wasteful spillages.”

He suggests starting lambs on restricted warm milk until trained (1 litre spilt into four or five 200-250ml feeds per day). “Training normally takes 1-3 days, after which time you can allow your lambs ad lib access to milk.”

Using a computerised feeder Alternatively, using an automatic computerised feeder such as

the Volac ECO Feeder can dramatically cut the time spent mixing milk and feeding lambs.

“However, a high level of management and hygiene is essential,” stresses Mr Smith.

“With computerised feeders, milk is consumed little and often, which means faster lamb growth rates and less risk of digestive upsets. The amount of ewe milk replacer used is approximately 12-13kg per lamb. Milk may

be offered warm (39°C) on a restricted basis during the early training period, but once lambs are sucking well from the teat on an ad lib basis the milk temperature should be reduced to 18-20°C to reduce the risk of health problems caused by over consumption. The machine should be cleaned daily and calibrated at least once a week, and between batches of milk powder,” he advises.

UK sheep breeders have access to the US genetics market

Sheep breeders in the UK can now export genetics to the US, in an agreement estimated to be worth over £750,000 in the first year of trade.

A new ovine embryo export health certification has gone live this week, allowing UK sheep breeders access to the allimportant American market –following a 26-year absence.

Various breeds including the Suffolk, Texel, Charollais and many Heritage breeds could

benefit from the new agreement with interest in their genetics on the increase in the US.

Sheep breeders in the US have been looking to bring in fresh genetics of some of the UK breeds since the market closed. The resumption of UK ovine semen imports in 2016 has allowed this, but the promise of embryos now ensures purebred sheep to be taken directly to UK flocks as required.

It follows over two decades of collaborative work between AHDB, Defra, the National Sheep Association, the UK Export Certification Partnership and Henry Lewis from the British

AHDB International Market Development Director Dr Phil Hadley said: “This is fantastic news for the UK sheep sector, following the recent announcement that British lamb is back on the menus after more than two decades.

“The importance of this agreement is huge, as many entrepreneurial UK pedigree sheep breeders have had an eye on the US market for some time and now, they are ready to take the next steps to exporting sheep genetics to America.

“The publication of the embryo export certificate not only brings a financial boost to breeders in the UK, but also affords ovine genetic benefit to our American sheep industry colleagues.”

Assume All Incoming Sheep Have Scab, as NI Survey Reveals Scale of Problem

Farmers should assume any incoming sheep are carrying scab mites to curb its spread after a survey of Northern Ireland sheep producers1 revealed sheep movements to be the leading cause of infestation.

Published in August, the survey found widespread cases of scab among flocks, with 36% of farmers indicating they had at least one outbreak of sheep scab in their flock within the previous five years and 39% believing scab was introduced to their flock via a purchased animal. Some farmers also reported their most recent outbreak had cost them over £2500, although costs were variable.

Researcher and vet Paul Crawford said the results highlighted knowledge gaps that needed to be addressed to improve sheep scab control.

“The survey shows there are knowledge gaps concerning parasite biology, disease transmission, prevention and

treatment options, as well as a lack of awareness of some relevant industry guidelines.

For example, some farmers rely on clinical signs alone to rule out the possibility that newly purchased sheep are infested with sheep scab before mixing them with their flock. This activity poses a high risk for introducing sheep scab into previously uninfected flocks.

The inadequacy of some farmers’ quarantine rules, or their inability to follow them, was also reported by farmers as being the cause of their flock infestation,” he added.

Quarantine Procedures for Scab Control

Adopting strict quarantine procedures for any incoming sheep and understanding the entire contamination route are vital to curb its spread.

Mr Crawford explained: “The sheep scab mite can live off sheep for 16- 17 days, so quarantine isn’t just as simple as putting sheep in a separate field; it is about understanding the entire contamination route. This includes everything sheep come into contact with from the trailer through to fences in the yard,” he said.

When in quarantine, Mr Crawford recommended that animals remain there for 3-4 weeks and two weeks after arrival (no earlier), blood testing 12 animals from each group using the blood ELISA test. This would indicate whether the group of sheep had been exposed to scab and whether treatment was necessary. The test costs about £84 for 12 animals, excluding vet fees and P&P.

When animals need treatment, the correct product must be used and the instructions must be followed, with Mr Crawford expressing his disappointment at how many poor treatments were reported in the survey.

“It highlights that there’s still work to be done to remove any misunderstanding around

treatments and to keep reinforcing the Sustainable Control of Parasites in Sheep (SCOPS) guidelines.”

Treatment Options

The SCOPS recommended treatment choice for scab includes:

Plunge dipping using an organophosphate (OP) dip.

Using an injectable group 3-ML such as CYDECTIN 2% LA. This treats scab infestations and prevent re-infestations for 60 days from a single injection.

Treatment choice comes down to the most practical option for that farmer and ensuring the product is administered correctly according to its guidelines.

“The main thing when treating for scab is that you do it properly, whether using an injectable or a dip, “he stressed.

SCOPS has worked with Zoetis, the makers of CYDECTIN 2% LA, to produce a Code of Practice for using injectables, which can be found on the SCOPS website https://www.scops.org.uk/ workspace/pdfs/best-practice-useof-injectable-scab-treatments.pdf

Vet Ally Ward from Zoetis added: “The results highlight that many treatments are being misused, which hinders the control of scab and can also increase resistance to the product.

For example, some injectables, such as doramectin or ivermectin, do not have any licensed persistency. This means sheep can pick up scab mites immediately after treatment. So, if one of these is used, the treated sheep should be put into a ‘clean’ field and not returned to the same field they have just come out of. It is also essential to treat all sheep in a flock/mob on the same day.

A £220,00 project is now underway in Northern Ireland to help tackle the disease. The money is being used to fund farmer meetings, vet meeting, on farm visits and data collection.

For more information email info@animalhealthni.com.

crofting

Crofting is the model for future sustainable land use

By Patrick Krause, Chief Executive, Scottish Crofting Federation

In my last column I pointed out how poorly received the Scottish Government’s consultation on an agriculture bill has been. Many agriculture policy advisory groups, not least the Farming and Food Production Future Policy Group and the Farmer-led Climate Change Groups, put considerable time and effort into drafting detailed recommendations for Scottish Government, yet, more than six years after the decision to leave the EU, the consultation only raises vague and often leading questions as to the powers that are necessary to provide agricultural support. The proposed 4-tier framework and conditionality causes more uncertainty than it explains.

However, we gritted out teeth and prepared a comprehensive response, calling for details on how the Scottish Government is going to use its powers and demanding the support crofting needs, that is omitted from the proposals. The new Scottish Agriculture Policy would be centred around four outcomes: climate change mitigation and adaptation,

nature restoration, high-quality food production and rural development, all of which we support, of course. But we are concerned that measures may not be designed with crofting in mind.

Payments across tiers need to be accessible to crofters, including support to active land management in areas of High Nature Value, which invariably face natural constraints and are handicapped by peripherality. Support is needed for naturefriendly traditional practices such as the growing and breeding of heritage varieties and rare breeds, local and high-quality food production and rural development including community building.

Crofting and low-impact agriculture should be at the heart of the new Agricultural Policy. This means that conditions need to be proportional but also that we need to talk about how funds are distributed - for too long agricultural payments have favoured the largest businesses. Crofting is delivering on the vision of the Scottish Government, and it is now up to the Government to better support crofting.

Robotic feed pusher adds 3 litres per cow

Following the 2018 launch of the OptiDuo™ feed pushing robot, DeLaval has launched a new model claiming the technology can add up to three litres per cow per day. Data from over 1500 OptiDuos has been collated to demonstrate the time and labour savings made by users. It also shows multiple improvements in cow health.

“Constantly refreshing feed encourages cows to eat more, which results in a more stable rumen and more milk. OptiDuo will run up to 10 times a day and customers tell us, that on every occasion, they see the cows return to the fence to eat more,” explains Ludo Bols, DeLaval feeding specialist.

The OptiDuo remixes forage to make it more palatable and reduce waste. A twin-spiralled rotating auger and adaptive drive function enables a variety of forage types

to be mixed and made available to cows 24 hours a day.

Feeding concentrates is also an option with the latest model. A concentrate dispenser inside the OptiDuo can be filled whilst the machine is charging, enabling concentrates to be fed out and recorded throughout the day.

The new OptiDuo features an impact-resistant engineering thermoplastic cover made from Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) which is also used in car manufacturing. Inside, updated software collects more data which is shared using DeLaval’s operating system.

Farmers with milking robots have reported that cow flow and robot visits have improved with OptiDuo. The addition of the feed pushing robot has increased yields and helped make more milk from forage.

have invested, OptiDuo has provided improved cow health, farm profitability, operational efficiency and milk yield,” concludes Mr Bols.

Ration Transition Plan Vital to Safeguard Cow Performance this Winter

Farmers should take extra care when transitioning between different silage cuts this winter to ensure milk yield and fertility aren’t compromised.

Dr Robin Hawkey, Nutritionist at Mole Valley Farmers, said regular sampling of silage samples this winter was more important than ever because of the variability in silage samples this year.

He suggested farmers work with their nutritionists to construct a ration transition plan to safeguard animal performance.

“Farmers can’t simply switch from silage A to Silage B and expect they will maintain performance. It’s essential to know the exact quality of your silage and balance it correctly.

“Many farmers are running out of first cut silage and moving on to very different second and third cuts, as well as moving onto new season maize silage. This needs careful consideration when balancing the ration,” he added.

Dr Hawkey said monitoring the intakes of cows was key.

“On farms that have chosen to invest in milking robots, we have seen milk yields increase by up to three litres of milk per cow per day. For those who

“This will give an insight into what is going on, which is particularly important in autumn block calving herds where accurate nutrition is required for the service period to maintain the calving block. Any impact on nutrition will affect fertility, which could have long-term implications for the herd,” he said.

One of Mole Valley Farmers’ clients, Duchy College, has seen exceptional performance this autumn in part thanks to the

accuracy of their feeding and excellent herd management.

The farm has excelled in increasing milk protein production, with October’s costings showing both an increase in yield by 2.5 litres and an increase milk protein concentration from 3.28% to 3.34%, leading to an average increase of 3.1kg of milk protein per cow in the month.

Mole Valley Farmers’ Peter Reis explained: “This has been achieved by continual monitoring of silage quality, ration and

adaptation of the farm’s bespoke blend to meet the requirements of the cows whilst in this early stage of lactation.

“We also regularly condition score cows and analyse dung for consistency, so if cows are not looking right, we will delve into more detail to find the problem before it becomes an issue. It’s all part of the service Mole Valley Farmers offers.

“It’s about keeping on top of things and not letting issues build up. We work very closely with

their vet Helen Howgill from Castle Vets,” he added.

The 180-cow autumn block calving Holstein herd contains a state-of-the-art Triolet feed kitchen, feeding cows robotically six times a day using augers and a conveyor system attached to the roof.

Herd Manager Caitlin Hancock said the new system had already helped improve milk from forage due to the accuracy of the robotic feeding system, consistency of the ration and the ability to feed accurately to yield in the parlour.

British dairy farms missing out on milk production by failing to address heat stress

Dairy farmers could be losing milk production worth tens of thousands of pounds by failing to protect their cows from heat stress during the summer.

That was the message from independent vet consultant, Dr Tom Chamberlain from Chalcombe Ltd, at a Lallemand Animal Nutrition workshop at Total Dairy in Stratford-uponAvon.

A live poll run during the workshop indicated that 92% of farmers have seen heat stress on their farm and 86% thought they’d lost more than 50 litres/ cow during lactation as a result of this, with many suggesting they’d lost more than 150 litres/ cow.

To reiterate the impacts of heat stress, during the workshop Dr Chamberlain shared results of a study, carried out in conjunction with Lallemand, to assess whether heat stress is a problem in British dairy herds.

The study focused on nine farms in England in the summer of 2022 – from Cheshire in the north to Devon in the south – and temperature and humidity were measured inside cattle sheds and out at grazing.

“The study shows the amount of time cows suffered from heat stress during the trial period, which ran from April to October, was 57% for cows kept inside, and 22% for those out at grass,” said Dr Chamberlain.

He said the study suggests the average housed cow lost 139 litres of milk production due to heat stress during the summer, while the average cow out at grass missed out on 129 litres of production.

“Across those nine farms, the average loss of production from heat loss is £128 per cow, with herd losses ranging from £24,000 to £90,000,” added Dr Chamberlain.

He encouraged farmers to draw up a heat stress management plan for summer 2023 and suggested adopting a siesta management approach.

“This involves getting the cows in at 10am and keeping them in until after milking, before turning them out again at 4pm,” said Dr Chamberlain

Carr’s Billington launches new sustainable ketosis drench

A new plant-based propylene glycol drench has been launched by Carr’s Billington to help farmers reduce the risk of ketosis and support high milk yields in dairy cows.

Superketo offers a sustainable option for helping to prevent production losses associated with clinical and subclinical ketosis. An issue that can easily go unnoticed until symptoms occur.

Michael Roe, product manager at Carr’s Billington, explains that the main ingredient in Superketo is monopropylene glycol, a plant-derived byproduct.

“This makes it a fossil-fuel free option that delivers all the production and welfare benefits of a traditional drench,” he says.

This new drench helps to close the ketosis-causing energy gap that develops in cows in the run up to, during, and post calving. The drench can be administered two to seven days before, and up to five weeks post-calving, depending on the individual animal’s risk of ketosis.

“Generally animals that are in poor condition, sick, old, or are bearing twins, hold the greatest risk of this energy-gap becoming excessive, and are therefore more likely to suffer from ketosis,” he says.

“Once administered, it quickly delivers a targeted and continuous hit of glucose to support the animal through birth and early lactation, while assisting liver function and immunity.”

Superketo will be available in Carr’s Billington stores from November and comes in four pack sizes: 5, 25, 200 and 1,000 litres. It can also be used in beef cattle and sheep.

For more information, please contact your local Carr’s Billington adviser or visit www. carrs-billington.com.

Precision feeding key to dairy margins this winter

Forage analysis, cow management and monitoring are key to making nutrition work

Variable forage quality and volatile feed and input prices are putting added pressure on dairy producers this winter, but providing the right amount of essential nutrients through precision feeding can help improve performance, efficiencies and margins.

“The adage ‘if you look after your animal, your animal will look after you’ has never been more relevant,” says Mike Chown, ruminant technical manager at UFAC-UK, “This is particularly true if we want to achieve the optimum yield from silage this winter.”

However, with forage and silage quality so variable this year, not just from farm to farm, but clamp to clamp, selecting the right forage for the right animals is key to optimise production. Forages should be analysed monthly throughout the winter, as the analysis will change as you move through the clamp.

“To maximise forage DMIs, we need to know what we are

feeding, and balance rations with the correct nutrients, such as structural fibre, sugar, starch, rumen protein, by-pass protein and rumen inert fatty acids,” explains Mr Chown.

“We must ensure speed of break down in the rumen is matched, while at the same time, paying attention to acid loading and rumen pH. This will optimise rumen microbes to promote fibre digestion and intakes, most cost-effectively,” he adds.

Once microbial protein and VFAs (volatile fatty acids) from the rumen have been optimised, Mr Chown says adding ‘little bombs’ high in the specified nutrients, such as rumen inert/ bypass proteins and fatty acids, will help meet the cow requirements. Forage rations are typically low in these.

“When doing this, it is important that every purchased feed is most cost-effective for the nutrient it is contributing to, for example, not just looking at

crude protein, but also looking at the cost of rumen degradable and rumen undegradable protein such as amino acids,” continues Mr Chown.

Regular monitoring and analysis

Regular monitoring and analysis will enable you to balance forages and maximise efficiencies.

“However, we should remember that no computer model will be as accurate as the cow. The cows will tell us how they are performing,” says Mr Chown.

“They will be giving you the clues and pointers to make sure you interpret forage analysis properly. Using these signals will help to ensure we balance rations correctly with the appropriate amino acids and fatty acids,” he adds.

These adjustments and additions to dairy diets can have a big impact on performance, health and fertility, and therefore margins.

Check temperature settings - and cut energy costs

As the weather gets colder pig producers should revisit the ventilation settings in controlled environment buildings, advises an environmental specialist.

Following a summer of record-breaking temperatures, farmers need to re-set their minimum ventilation rates and also, importantly, check that their alarm systems are properly

set up,” says Tim Miller of ARM Buildings.

“During the hot weather farmers had to set minimum ventilation rates quite high and, in some cases, the temperatures were above the normal trigger points on the alarm systems resulting in false call outs. But now that the weather has cooled down these need to be adjusted,” he said.

“With high energy costs, having minimum ventilation rates set too high means that fans are running unnecessarily causing producers to waste heat and ‘burn’ money by heating the surrounding countryside!”

The biggest savings can be made where supplementary heating is used – typically in weaner-grower houses.

“It’s quite possible to make savings of £20-£30 per day in a 400-500 pig house by adjusting the fan settings to the correct level,” said Mr Miller.

In addition to cutting costs, setting ventilation rates at a sensible level helps to create the correct environment and safeguards the pigs’ welfare, he pointed out. www.armbuildings.com

Poor ventilation control in a single house of 400 pigs can cost pig producers as much as £20-£30 per day, says Tim Miller

Six simple steps to create flourishing hedgerows

Free advice available to farmers and land managers on how to maintain this iconic habitat throughout prime hedgerow management season and beyond

This autumn and winter, wildlife charity People’s Trust for Endangered Species (PTES) is offering free hedgerow management advice to farmers, landowners, and land managers across the UK. Following just six steps will make creating landscape-level hedgerow management plans much easier.

The aim is to restore, and create, a thriving network of healthy hedgerows across the countyside in a bid to ensure the long-term survival and continued health of every UK hedgerow. This not only benefits those working on the land but the myriad native wildlife that call these iconic and hugely important living habitats home too.

The charity’s hedgerow management advice is available via PTES’ free Healthy

Hedgerows app (available via the Apple Store or Google Play). By answering just six questions the app carries out a quick hedgerow health check and which tells users where their hedgerows are within the natural lifecycle. It offers bespoke management recommendations for each hedge and advises which hedges to prioritise for rejuvenation when creating or adjusting their hedgerow management plans.

Sarah Barnsley, Hedgerow Officer at PTES explains: “Autumn and winter are the best times of year to assess the health of a hedgerow. The hedge is dormant, and without its leaves you can see its structure and indicators that might show change is needed. It’s also the perfect time for trimming, coppicing and hedge laying. But knowing what management work to do first, and when, is key to their long-term survival.”

“Healthy Hedgerows has been downloaded over 2,000 times and used to health-check

over 800 hedges (spanning 108km) since its launch last year. This is a fantastic start, but as there’s about 500,000km of hedgerow criss-crossing our countryside much more work is needed. Hedges will only be healthy long-term through careful management which changes over time. We know farmers, landowners and land managers are busy, which is why we’ve produced this app to make hedgerow management as easy and efficient as possible.”.

Sarah continues: “Sadly, about half of the UK’s hedgerows have been lost over the last century through incentivised removal, which makes those that remain even more valuable. We hope our app will help secure a positive future for our hedgerows.”

Hedgerows are countryside icons, and are vital habitats for much of our native wildlife, from hedgehogs and hazel dormice to bats and birds. They are safe navigational corridors,

nesting sites and provide food. One study even found 2,000+ species within an 85m stretch of hedge in Devon!

Hedgerows are a huge asset to farmers and land managers too. They offer crop protection, and act as stock barriers and livestock shelters. They can provide income and benefit the environment by acting as carbon stores. They help to reduce flooding, soil erosion, air and water pollution levels too.

To further help the rural community to maintain this precious habitat, PTES offers free training courses. Each is in line with the hedgerow management lifecycle, which is based on the 10-point scale developed by Nigel Adams and HedgeLink.

Download the free Healthy Hedgerows app at Apple Store or Google Play or see more information at: hedgerowsurvey.ptes.org/ healthy-hedgerows-survey

Photo courtesy of PTES

Scotland’s first female gamekeeping lecturer is also a firefighter

Sophie Clark (27) – is a trailblazer in every sense of the word. She is Scotland’s first female lecturer in Gamekeeping, and is also a retained firefighter.

“I grew up in the small harbour village of Kinlochbervie in the north west of Sutherland. It was and still is an idyllic place to live and the community is very close-knit. I’ve always known I wouldn’t want a job that involved sitting behind a desk all day. I love the outdoors and I always want to feel that I’m making a difference. I enrolled on the Gamekeeping & Wildlife Management course at UHI North Highland in Thurso and from that moment I never looked back.

From the word go I loved every aspect of the course – I was offered the chance to assist with walked up grouse shooting over dogs on estates in the north of Scotland, which was an amazing introduction to land management.

My first work placement was at Reay Forest Estate where I was trained in deer management, worked with hill ponies and as a ghillie on the glorious River Laxford. There is so much more to being a gamekeeper or a ghillie than most people realise.

I became a lecturer to help encourage more young people and women to pursue a rural career – whether as a gamekeeper, a ghillie or a land manager, there are huge opportunities to protect the natural environment and encourage biodiversity while also remaining in your home village, and supporting your community.

The role of a gamekeeper has changed immeasurably in recent years with far greater emphasis

on conservation, and in my opinion, this opens the door to more women coming through.

There’s nothing more heartening than to see lapwing nesting on the land you manage or to hear the beautiful call of the curlew when up on the hills. That’s thanks to gamekeepers providing a rich habitat for wildlife to thrive.

All too often those who come to Scotland for country sports are pigeonholed as toffs wearing tweed but that is an outdated view based on the age old myths about shooting.

It’s not a question of looking for a huge number of birds to shoot above everything, and it’s also important to note that grouse shooting only takes place when there’s a sustainable surplus. Gamekeepers and those who come here to shoot are passionate about our countryside and understand the need to retain moorland so that generations to come can enjoy the outstanding purple heather moors that we see today.

The number of women on the Gamekeeping and Wildlife Management course at UHI North Highland is slowly growing year on year. We are developing new areas of the curriculum, including woodland impact assessments and delivering rural skills to local schools in the north west of Scotland. If we don’t work hard to inspire the younger generation they will all feel they have to move to Glasgow or Edinburgh to get a job and the glens and hills will suffer even more than they do today.

I became a retained firefighter because I wanted to help my community and there

is always a need for firefighters in the Highland region – it’s another job where you can make a difference and help the local community. This year there has been an extraordinary number of wildfires breaking out and gamekeepers are often first on the scene of a wildfire, working in partnership with the Fire & Rescue Service.

Wildfires rarely occur on grouse moors as the gamekeepers manage the moors with a cycle of

controlled heather burning that reduces the fuel load and which prevents the destruction and devastation to wildlife and their habitats that wildfires cause.

There are so many aspects to rural conservation - I’m in talks with starting a local deerstalking group for women and I help out with sea bird surveys. I hope many more women will feel confident about working in land management or gamekeeping. If I can do it, anyone can!”

HUK Lifetime Achievement Award Winner

Presented by the Holstein UK Board of Trustees, the Lifetime Achievement Award recognises at least twenty years of dedication and service to the Holstein and/or British Friesian

breeds. The award is presented annually to an individual who has made a remarkable contribution to the Society and provided outstanding service to the breed.

With great pleasure, the Trustees presented the 2022 Lifetime Achievement Award to Richard Beard, who has recently retired from the Society after having worked for them for four decades. Richard’s interest in British Friesians was ignited as a school boy, and led him to study at Askham Bryan College to complete a National Certificate in Agriculture. Richard learnt about Canadian Holstein imports while working with the Sharcombe herd which resulting in him emigrating to Canada at the age of 21, he also went on to live and work in the USA.

Whilst abroad, Richard wrote letters to the Holstein World magazine which were later published before the editor invited him to write a regular column. Richard wrote the page for over 10 years before it morphed into A Letter From Great Britain when he relocated back to the UK. Articles for many other publications were to follow and one of Richard’s favourites was Cremona: Where Stradivarius meets Starbuck, about the appearance of Starbuck daughters at the European Holstein Show, which was published in the Farmers Weekly in the mid 80’s.

Dealers support industry leading apprenticeship

The high level of support from the Claas dealer network for the new, industry leading in-house apprenticeship based at the Claas Academy at Saxham is evident in the fact that the new course starting this Autumn is fully booked

Claas is the only UK machinery manufacturer to offer and deliver a specific in-house apprenticeship scheme, using new purpose built facilities. Opened earlier this year the new Academy is an integral part of the Claas Academy at the Claas UK Saxham headquarters site.

Following the inaugural intake of students in February, a further 23 students from dealerships throughout England, Wales and Ireland arrived at Saxham for the start of their 4-year block-release course in September.

A further cohort of students from dealerships in Scotland have also been welcomed onto their course provided and run by the Scottish Rural College (SRUC) Barony near Dumfries.

The new Claas in-house Apprenticeship scheme was introduced to help raise the standard of newly qualified

engineers. By ‘growing our own’ Claas UK can ensure that the engineers of the future have been fully trained on the very latest Claas machinery and that they have the skill set to keep them abreast of technological advancements within the industry, including key franchises offered by the Claas dealer network.

During their apprenticeship, the students will study for a Level 3 Apprenticeship Standard in Land-Based Service Engineering Technician, delivered by dedicated CLAAS trainers alongside specialist product trainers from the main Claas Academy.

The new Apprentice Academy with its purpose built facilities and specialist fabrication, engine

workshops and classrooms, in addition to break-out areas and onsite restaurant, provide the students with some of the best training facilities in the UK. The 3 million Euros development is a worldwide first for the Claas Group and is being used as a blueprint for the instigation of similar programmes within the company’s global operation.

Falkirk is naturally celebrated for the Kelpies sculptures and the Falkirk Wheel, but the farming links are never far away. Take the Kelpies themselves as an example. These mesmerising sculptures will celebrate a big birthday in 2023: completed in 2013, these iconic creations will soon be ten years old. Not only do the sculptures pay homage to Scottish myths and legends, they also honour the Clydesdale horses that worked the waterways, helping to move Scotland’s produce and goods, from agricultural to industrial, through the canals. Sculptor, Andy Scott, modelled his pieces on two Clydesdales named Baron and Duke. It’s said that these handsome creatures were also the focus of Scott’s steel heavy horse installation, which can be found just off the M8 outside Glasgow. Make your next Falkirk stop Callendar House and Park. Within

Farming Falkirk

by Janice Hopper

the 14th century house itself it’s possible to take afternoon tea, or have a more informal lunch, coffee and cake in the café. Head downstairs to the Georgian Kitchen to learn about recipes of old, or let kids dress up as Roman soldiers in the exhibition area as they learn about the Antonine Wall. But it’s worth noting that much of the area’s agricultural history is covered here too. The exhibitions highlight quirky stories such as Small’s Plough, designed in the 1760s by James Small. The Berwickshire man took his idea to Falkirk’s Carron Ironworks to make his designs a reality. The plough’s efficiency was a roaring success, requiring far less force than traditional ploughs to turn a furrow, and Small generously refused to patent his creation.

Falkirk’s famous cattle ‘Trysts’ are covered too. Falkirk’s large scale cattle trading in the early

18th century even gave Crieff’s dominance in this field a run for its money. Other industries illuminated in the exhibition include two large tanneries from 18th century, which naturally benefited from the trysts. This industry also required bark, tapping into the forests of Callendar Park. And it also explains why Falkirk became a recognised shoe producer, as leather was close at hand. It’s fascinating to see how farmers bringing livestock to the trysts indirectly benefited not one, but two further crafts and industries in the town.

Flax, essential for the linen industry, was another crop highlighted in Callendar House, and Falkirk’s weaving heritage is touched upon too. Even how the land is utilised is examined, discussing the move in Falkirk to swap out small, exposed ‘rigs’ to “large fields ‘enclosed’ by hedges”,

a policy embraced by Callendar House’s owner, William Forbes, in the late 18th century.

When it comes to historic Falkirk, conflict over land was never far away either. Traces of the Antonine Wall are within reach, revealing how the region was dramatically divided. The original wall, built around 142AD, was actually made of turf rather than bricks or stone, and it ran right through the centre of Callendar Park. Even the park’s children’s playground has a ‘Roman’ theme, giving youngsters the opportunity to defend a fort like a Roman legionary, or attack it like a Celt! Another key figure who fought for Scotland’s land is buried in Falkirk Town Centre. Sir John De Graeme was William Wallace’s finest knight, killed in action during the Battle of Falkirk on 22 July 1298. Seek out his memorial and burial site at Falkirk Trinity Church on Manse Place.

For those wishing to see all these attractions and the Falkirk landscape in more detail, exploring by car is an obvious option, but it’s a wonderfully bike-friendly area with excellent cycle tracks along the canal banks. Key tourist sites are linked by flat cycle paths, such as the Falkirk Wheel and the Kelpies. Callendar Park and the neighbouring Callendar Estate also offer family friendly cycling through the park and the woodland. Bear in mind that Callendar Estate boasts over 4,800 acres of farmland, providing the basis of agricultural production for twenty farming families. The estate is also known for its biomass output and forestry. If cycling around Falkirk sounds a little taxing then it’s possible to rent electric bikes from Forth Bike, so visitors can immerse themselves in the countryside allowing the bikes to do most of the work.

The Kelpies

Travel Scotland

Accommodation

If there’s scope for a treat, book a night at the Macdonald Inchyra Hotel with its pool and spa. Elemis treatments on offer include Deeper Than Deep Hot Stone Massage, plus High Performance Skin Energiser and Freestyle Deep Tissue Massages on the men’s spa menu. Dine in the Scottish Steakhouse Restaurant: start with pig cheek croquette with celeriac and apple remoulade; enjoy a main of truffled chicken Milanese; and finish with raspberry & apple crumble. macdonaldhotels.co.uk/inchyra

Fact box

For more information explore visitfalkirk.com

The Kelpies - thehelix.co.uk/visit/ kelpies-tour

The Falkirk Wheelscottishcanals.co.uk/falkirk-wheel

Callendar Housefalkirkleisureandculture.org/ venues/callendar-house

Lastly, consider celebrating one of the most unlikely crops to grace Scottish dining rooms - pineapples. A sign of prestige and wealth, the pineapple was the ultimate produce to present to esteemed guests. Take time to visit the National Trust for Scotland’s Falkirk Pineapple: this attractive folly was built in 1761 by the 4th Earl of Dunmore. While many rich and influential individuals indulged in pineappleinspired gateposts, railings and carvings, it’s fair to agree that the Earl of Dunmore’s fruity dedication wins out!

Food & drink

With all the exploring and pedal power it’s easy to build up an appetite. For a meat feast, Behind the Wall is a vast, lively restaurant in the town centre. For those who want a bit of history, drop by Falkirk’s oldest pub, The Wheatsheaf Inn. Check out the Falkirk Farmers and Producers market on the first Saturday of the month. And keep an eye out for local food producers from the region, such as Caledonian Cheesecake, Mrs Tilly’s Confectionery,

Johnstons Handmade Tablet, Malcolm Allan Butchers, Falkirk Distillery and Tryst Brewery to name a few.

Callendar Estatecallendarestate.co.uk

Forth Bike - forthbike.co.uk

The Pineapple - nts.org.uk/visit/ places/the-pineapple

Pork Belly Main Course at Inchyra

The Pineapple

Seeking out Sir John De Graeme

estate

Pentland hills farm becomes Scotland’s smallest wildlife accredited property

A nature friendly family farm on the outskirts of Edinburgh has become the smallest landholding in Scotland to be awarded prestigious international wildlife accreditation.

Easter Bavelaw Farm, which is nestled to the south of Threipmuir Reservoir in the Pentland Hills, has gained Wildlife Estates Scotland (WES) certification following a rigorous accreditation process.

At only 193 hectares, Easter Bavelaw and its owners Becci and Graham Barr are pursuing an exemplary environmental approach to their land management.

After purchasing the farm in 2016, the Barrs have operated the farm as a low input, low output, low impact sheep farm with a modest flock of Easycare ewes. In doing so, they have implemented a holistic approach to land management and food production, ranking the enhancement of biodiversity with equal priority to creating and maintaining an economically viable business.

In the last six years, they have planted nearly 50ha of mixed commercial and non-commercial woodland, planted 200m of hedgerow and implemented minimum tillage techniques

Gamekeepers slam national parks process

Scotland’s gamekeepers have criticised the stakeholder process for new national parks in Scotland claiming land managers’ views are being under-represented.

The Scottish Gamekeepers Association (SGA) believe the proposed aims of new parks, for nature recovery and Net Zero, are likely to impact most on people currently working the land for a living.

However, despite this, they say that agriculture and private interests are currently underrepresented in the process, with government bodies and environment NGOs dominating.

Furthermore, they claim the consultative experience has alienated land managers because

communications are laden with policy jargon the ordinary person can’t understand.

The creation of at least one new national park by 2026 is a commitment of the Scottish Government; a legacy of the Bute House agreement between SNP and the Greens.

Amongst contenders wishing to see a park in their region are Galloway and the Borders, with the present 2 parks being sited around Loch Lomond and the Trossachs and the Cairngorms.

Writing in response to a consultation, which closes on Wednesday, the SGA questioned the process so far, with much at stake for the likes of gamekeepers, farmers, deer managers and crofters.

“The question must be raised, if the Scottish Government and NatureScot genuinely wish to encourage an inclusive and widereaching response, why is the

consultation process so inhibiting? The lack of representation by those that earn their living from the land and ordinary citizens is apparent,” the organisation stated.

in forage crop production and grassland management –

beneficial for wildlife and in particular, wading birds.

“The narrative that pervades the consultation document and associated conversations applies a technical discourse that is specialised, selective and marginalising.

“Loaded with policy speak and legal jargon, it poses considerable challenges to the layperson.”

New green tech could transform deer count

Innovative new technologies are being trialled that could help revolutionise the way deer numbers are tracked across Scotland.

NatureScot is working with Glasgow-based tech company EOLAS Insight to test the use of satellites, aerial imagery and artificial intelligence (AI) to accurately count deer.

Knowing how many deer use an area is important to determine how to manage populations for conservation or sporting purposes. With many deer counts currently carried out manually by helicopter, new technologies offer an alternative solution that could provide swift and accurate data across large areas while helping to reduce the associated carbon footprint and cost.

The first phase of the project, supported through the Scottish Government’s CivTech programme, used satellite imagery combined with newly developed AI image recognition software to identify deer in images.

The approach was so successful that the same technology is now being used by EOLAS Insight to help conservationists count African elephants from space.

NatureScot is again partnering with the company to launch a second phase of work, which will further explore the use of aerial imagery.

GWCT’s Scottish Demonstration

Farm at Auchnerran has a good year despite weather and Covid challenges

The Game & Wildlife Scottish Demonstration Farm (GWSDF) at Auchnerran has published its annual report for year to 31 December 2021.

The report highlights the farming and research activities at the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust’s farm and publication of its financial report. Among the enterprise’s objectives are demonstrating to practitioners, policy makers and others how a wild mixed shoot and productive farming can contribute to a net gain in natural capital in a marginal hill edge setting, as well as maintaining a profitable farming enterprise.

Even with the challenges of weather and Covid-19 significant steps forward were made in terms of the farm; wildlife and the environment; science and research; and the farm shoot:

• The sheep flock has stabilised at just over 1400 ewes.

• Proportion of lambs weaned was 126%.

• 600 bales of silage made (20 bales/ha average).

• Successful shooting season given limited number of days, with total bag including 65 pheasant, 9 woodcock, 3 brown hares and 27 rabbits.

• Completion of the new visitor/education centre and staff office although visitor and educational days reduced significantly by Covid-19.

• Exceptional weather – a cold spring and blizzards in May.

• Lapwing hatching success on the farm has been impacted significantly by predation, notably by badgers.

• Ongoing monitoring of badger and pine marten activity with camera traps.

• Completion of the farm’s natural capital assessment, and ongoing carbon audit.

• The business remained in profit, though reduced on last year due to fluctuations in subsidy payments.

www.gwct.org.uk/auchnerran/

“It was indeed a challenging year at the farm. Significant snowfall in May and a dry spring and summer that followed posed problems for both the farm with early lamb losses higher than normal, and perhaps some of our resident wildlife with wader numbers down slightly. There was also an unexpected jump in the rate of badger predation on our breeding waders which contributed to a poor year for chick production. However, farm output overall was maintained at a good level with a high lambing rate and the team has been as busy as ever.

“Auchnerran is coming out of the Covid-19 crisis stronger than ever, with significant changes underway through 2022. We have a new management structure and a larger team including new staff, and some exciting new projects.”

GWCT’s Dr Dave Parish says:

This involves images from a lightweight manned aircraft, with a high resolution camera system, being run through the EOLAS Insight AI recognition software to automatically count deer numbers.

It is hoped this approach could overcome some of the challenges of satellite use in Scotland, including weather and cloud cover. While satellites can provide broad overall numbers, a higher camera resolution could allow deer to be classified as stags, hinds, calves and could also be more useful for looking at habitat type and condition.

Pioneering Golden Eagle project backed by chick donations from Scotland’s rural estates

Rural estates have been praised for their vital contribution towards restoring a thriving golden eagle population in the south of Scotland.

In total, 20 eagle chicks have been translocated for the project since 2018 – with 18 of those coming from estates owned privately.

Pitmain & Glenbanchor Estate near Kingussie and Rottal Estate near Kirriemuir are among the private estates who have this year worked with the award-winning South of Scotland Golden Eagle Project to translocate eagle chicks from their land to help establish a thriving eagle population in the south.

Other estates to have participated in the project since 2018 include Glenmazeran Estate in Inverness-shire, Jahama Highland Estates near Fort William and Dalnacardoch Estate near Pitlochry.

The estates have diverse interests including management for farming, grouse shooting

and country sports, forestry and energy but all of them undertake vital conservation work which has played a huge role in golden eagles and a host of other species choosing to nest on their land.

A number of these estates are also either Wildlife Estates Scotland accredited or currently going through accreditation process. Wildlife Estates is a European wide initiative to promote the best habitat and wildlife management practices.

Sarah-Jane Laing, chief executive of Scottish Land & Estates, said: “Scotland’s rural estates have been pivotal in supporting the South of Scotland Golden Eagle Project from inception through to the release of birds, with 90% of the chicks translocated originating from estates managed privately. As demonstrated by these latest translocations from Rottal and Pitmain & Glenbanchor, estates are both practically and financially helping Scotland’s nature and we

hope even more estates will get involved in the project in future.”

Dr Cat Barlow, Project Manager for South of Scotland

Golden Eagle Project, said: “In just a few short years, thanks to the vital support we have received from estates across

Scotland, we have more than tripled the local population of golden eagles in the south of Scotland to 39 - the highest number recorded for three centuries. This has been made possible through the great care estates and raptor workers have taken to help us source healthy eagle chicks and provide them with welcoming new habitats. It is fantastic to see these majestic birds soar in southern skies once again.”

Project partners the Southern Uplands Partnership, RSPB Scotland, Scottish Land & Estates, Scottish Forestry and

NatureScot worked on the project together for more than 11 years before releasing the first eagle chicks in 2018. Funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, project partners and the Scottish Government, the initiative is a key project under ‘Scotland’s Biodiversity. A Route Map to 2020’, supporting the Government’s ‘2020 Challenge for Scotland’s Biodiversity’.

For the latest project and festival news, or to donate to the charity initiative, visit: www. goldeneaglessouthofscotland. co.uk

New Lake District Farming team delivers funding boost

It’s all change in the Lake District National Park Authority’s Farming team as there’s promotion for Jasmine Holliday to Farming Officer and the introduction of local farmer, Eliza Hodgson, as a new Assistant Farming Officer.

Dairy farmer Jasmine joined the National Park in September 2021 and has recently been promoted to Farming Officer. She said: “I’ve really enjoyed the challenge of implementing the roll out of the Farming in Protected Landscapes grant funding programme, which was a real success in its first year, allocating £600,000 funding to Lake District farmers.

Jasmine takes over the role from Andrea Meanwell who has moved to the National Trust as Lakes Future Farming Partnerships Manager, and they’ll continue to work in partnership to support local farmers.

Jasmine says: “I’m looking forward to the challenge of my new role and continuing to support the Lake District farming community. I’m delighted that we’ve welcomed

Eliza to the team and know that her skills complement mine and we will work well together.”

Eliza Hodgson took up her new role at the start of October. She is a sheep and beef farmer, originally from Rydal but more recently farming in Windermere. She has experience of assisting with a successful farm diversification business and website creation. She is a graduate in Agricultural Food Marketing and Business Studies, so brings with her a full suite of skills for her work with the Lake District National Park Authority.

Looking ahead and working to create a better rural Scotland

By Stephen Young, Head of Policy at Scottish Land & Estates

Following a three-month consultation period, the window to respond on proposals for a new agriculture bill for Scotland concluded shortly before the turn of the year.

The consultation was split into six parts to reflect proposals for possible inclusion in the new bill, which is expected in late-2023, but with implementation likely not to happen until 2025/26 at the earliest. While the proposals will give important powers to government, we and others in the sector have been vocal about the disappointing lack of detail as to how those powers will be used, with the emphasis placed on the ability to add this detail through secondary legislation, which we do not feel is the best way to ensure proper scrutiny and ability reach consensus.

Our broad response is in keeping with the thinking laid out in the latest iteration of our #Route2050 paper which we launched at the Royal Highland Show back in summer 2022.

In terms of future payments, we largely agree with the framework set out by government in the consultation, with four tiers of payments – albeit with some concern about how easy the system will be to understand and administer, along with a lack of clarity on what the total budget will be and how existing and future biodiversity and carbon outcomes will be measured. We have consistently argued that there needed to be a base level of support, with 50% of payments made

to support active farming businesses, and we’re pleased by that plan.

Other areas in the consultation include sections on delivery of key outcomes, and skills, knowledge transfer and innovation. In general terms, SLE has expressed a desire to see an integrated approach allowing businesses to have a mix of food production, forestry, carbon sequestration and natural capital benefits – and said that greater resources are needed to share knowledge and skills that will help farmers to innovate in the decades ahead.

There is also a suite of agricultural holdings proposals, headlined to enable tenant farmers to take part in environmental schemes and payments. While we are supportive of the principle, it does not seem to consider or analyse what is currently possible within existing leases, which must be the starting point for this discussion as more legislation for the sake of it is rarely a good move.

Farmers, land managers and owners will have entered their responses and we hope it will lead to policy that will allow long-term strategic planning. Land management is complex, and decisions cannot be made in isolation, but with the right support Scotland’s land can play its full part in fighting climate change, restoring nature and producing food in accord with each other, but it can only move at pace once we know what will constitute success – and then how success will be measured.

You don’t need to give up farming for trees!

“Planting trees on the farm does not always mean taking hectares of land out of agriculture and turning it over to permanent woodland.”

There is often a misconception that planting trees on the farm means you have to take hectares of land out of agriculture and turn it over to permanent woodland. Sarah Radcliffe, Forestry and Woodland Manager for H&H Land & Estates is keen to highlight that this is not the case and that you do not have to give up farming:

“Increasing the amount of woodland or trees on your farm does not mean you need to give up that productive field. All farms have areas that are too wet, too steep or where the tractor cannot get into and there are various options for keeping this land productive and increasing the tree cover over the farm

We are all well aware that the climate is changing, with increased periods of extreme temperatures, drought and wetter weather. However, as well as helping the environment by preventing flooding and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, trees can help keep livestock cool, sheltered, reduce stress and provide nutrition.

Planting trees on the farm does not always mean taking hectares of land out of agriculture and turning it over to permanent woodland. Trees within the farming landscape can come in many different forms including individual hedgerow trees, wood pasture, low density

scrub planting or traditional shelterbelts.

Attracting wildlife to the farm, connecting hedgerows, and creating wildlife corridors all contribute to increasing biodiversity. Hedgerow trees and wood pasture provide shelter for livestock both in the heat of summer and from wet cold weather in the winter. Providing an outside environment for livestock to graze with areas of shelter and shade offered by trees reduces stress and can also deliver additional nutritional benefits from the leaves and bark.

Low density tree planting, and scrub creation is an ideal shelter for wildlife as well as game birds

Shelterbelts have the ability to modify the microclimate of a field by reducing windspeeds and increasing daytime temperatures. The slower windspeeds along the ground surface slow down the evaporation of water, retaining moisture more efficiently within the crop.

Planting slightly larger areas of conifer woodland is known to help to reduce flooding lower down steam. By doing this you slow the flow of water by intercepting the water droplets that land on the branches and soak into the soil. Small conifer woodlands also act as a long-term income source for the farm through thinning and felling management. Any timber harvested from farm shelterbelts can be chipped and used as animal bedding or used in wood fuel boilers to heat the

buildings, both supporting the farm’s carbon footprint reduction programme.

Planting broadleaf trees along riverbanks can help to stabilise the banks and reduce soil erosion. Trees can also increase the shade over the river, keeping the water temperature cool.

Pigs and poultry contribute to approx. 20% of the ammonia being released in the UK. (DEFRA, 2021) So, planting trees around poultry buildings will help absorb some of these gases and also provide a cool,

sheltered environment for the birds to roam.

Planting more trees on your farm does not mean you need to stop farming, and whatever type of trees you do choose to plant it will benefit both your livestock and the environment. So please do contact us if you would like to explore this further.”

If you would like any further advice or information on woodland management, please contact Sarah on 01228 406260 or email her atsarah.radcliffe@ hhlandestates.co.uk.

Exciting smallholding and afforestation opportunity in Dumfries & Galloway

Forestry Grant Scheme to be refreshed

In January 2023, a public consultation on future grant support for forestry in Scotland will take place.

The aim is to build on the success of the current Forestry Grant Scheme and get views on how it can be evolved.

creating 18,000 hectares of new woodland each year by 2024/5. In doing this I am keen to ensure that we get the right tree in the right place and improve community engagement in the process.

Nestled among the rolling hills of Stewartry in Dumfries & Galloway is Culfad, a rural smallholding opportunity set in 15.22 acres of land.

The sale comprises a now uninhabitable farmhouse and steading which could be developed to form a smallholding with extensive accommodation in a most attractive setting.

The land is currently grazed on a seasonal grazing licence. There are no leases presently on the land and it is available to purchase with vacant possession. There are also plans to progress an afforestation project around the property.

Rebecca Reed, handling the sale for Galbraith in Castle Douglas, said: “Culfad represents a very exciting development prospect for those looking for a rural lifestyle purchase and keen to take on a project. It offers a wealth of opportunity for family living with the attractive

option of setting up a rural business or perhaps self-catering accommodation subject to the necessary planning permission.

“The local town of Castle Douglas has both a primary and secondary school, a great range of amenities and a livestock market, making Culfad a prime location for a young family and a rural business venture.”

Culfad is just over two miles from the village of Springholm, which has a thriving community, as well as being only five miles from the county town of Castle Douglas, known as the Food Town of Dumfries and Galloway.

The South West of Scotland is well known for its mild climate, attractive unspoilt countryside and a diverse range of recreational pursuits including sporting opportunities.

Culfad, Kirkpatrick Durham, Dumfries and Galloway, is for sale though Galbraith for Offers Over £275,000.

The plan is to ensure that in future years the Forestry Grants Scheme continues to deliver well for Net Zero, biodiversity, community wealth building and the economy.

The Forestry Grant Scheme is managed by the agency Scottish Forestry and has been in existence since 2015. It has funded over 4,500 projects, creating around 68,000 hectares of new woodland, an area equivalent to size of East Lothian.

Announcing the plans for the consultation, Environment Minister Mairi McAllan said: “We are leading the way on woodland creation with nearly 80% of all new woodlands within the UK being created right here in Scotland.

“The Scottish Government has ambitious targets to expand our forests further,

“I want to see the Forestry Grant Scheme evolve by building on the current approach and successes and by invigorating the support that is provided.

The consultation on future grant support for forestry is planned to start in January and will last for 12 weeks.

As part of the last Programme for Government published last September, a commitment was also made to enhance parts of the current Forestry Grants Scheme.

These new enhancements will be put in place by March 2023 and include a new riparian woodland grant, more support and advice for farmers wishing to integrate trees into their businesses, and a package of measures to improve public engagement in new woodland creation applications.

SCOTTISH COUNTRY LIFE

Not affected by the Hunting with Dogs (Scotland) Bill?

By Jake Swindells, Director for Scotland, Scottish Countryside Alliance

In late 2021, The Scottish Government delivered on its promise to overhaul hunting with dogs, launching a bill and a public consultation to call for views. In some cases, this went under the radar, but it was soon realised that this bill will have many unintended consequences on our rural sector. The tightening of legislation is, though it is denied in Holyrood, aimed at traditional mounted hunting but it has far-reaching effects on both farming and conservation.

The SNP are enforcing a limit of 2 dogs to search for and flush a mammal, but a licence system will be available to those who need to use a pack of dogs in areas such as forestry or open hill. Minister Mairi McAllan, however, has repeatedly stated that a licence will be an exception to the exception. In other words, you will have to jump through hoops to get one and, by the sound of it, the SNP seem as if they want very few of them issued.

Having failed to publish the detail of the initial consultation response in full, The Scottish Government are asking rural communities and MSP’s to support a bill that has little detail or clarification. As it stands, it is severely damaging to our community and everything we have worked towards. They somehow fail to understand that restricting effective practices in predator control will automatically contribute to the growth of the Fox population. The obvious knock-on effects being an increase in livestock loss as well as potentially irreversible conservational damage. The

Scottish Government has spent millions of pounds on conservation projects and now plan to waste every penny spent by allowing predator populations to explode owing to pressure from animal rights groups. With predator populations at their current level, we are expected to lose the iconic Capercaillie within the next 30 years and this legislation could well hasten their fate.

Livestock on lowland farms, crofts and on the hill will suffer badly. Without ready access to a licence to allow the use of more than 2 dogs, the ability to control predator numbers will diminish. In England, the practice of hunting with a pack ceased to exist and trail hunting became more popular as a result. In Scotland, a pre-emptive strike has been initiated to ban trail hunting, an activity that isn’t widely practiced north of the border. This is an obvious attack on traditional hunting,

yet the SNP continue to look us in the eye and say that it is not. Legislating against a single form of wildlife management with a poorly understood and pre-conceived idea of how predator management takes place as a basis is very shortsighted and shows a level of ignorance that is often hard to believe. It matters not how a pack of dogs is followed, whether on foot, quad or horseback. What matters is how the professional handlers and practitioners operate at the sharp end. Sadly, this is lost on the majority of MSP’s.

Terrier work is also in the spotlight, with further restrictions, or even the possibility of a ban of any work below ground being considered. How will this improve animal welfare when a Vixen fox is shot, and dependant cubs are left below ground?

Rabbits are to be included in the bill and defined as a wild mammal. If this passes

unchanged, then the controlling of rabbits with dogs will all but end having additional, devastating consequences for farmers. Pest controllers will no longer be able to use dogs when netting or using ferrets either. Rough shoots will end, as using more than 2 dogs in a beating line will likely be unlawful, as they will be considered a pack. In fact, if your dog flushes a rabbit and it is shot by your neighbouring walking gun you will be breaking the law. You could get a licence, but remember, a licence is the exception to the exception.

The bill is now in stage 2 of 3 stages and is due to conclude in early 2023. The Rural Affairs, Islands and Natural Environment (RAINE) Committee is overseeing the progress of the bill and have held a number of evidence sessions. They have heard from numerous stakeholders and the Scottish Countryside Alliance has given evidence in Parliament twice. Amendments have been tabled by MSPs and these will be discussed and voted on in the coming weeks. It has never been more important to lobby your MSP and to advise them on how they should be voting on these suggested amendments. Labour and The Greens will have their say so it is vital that our side is represented, and we are running out of time. If you would like further information, please visit the SCA website and sign up to our Heather Routes newsletter or get in touch via jake-swindells@ countryside-alliance.org

The 60,000 tree woman

A dozen years ago, ecologist Shaila Rao’s strategy of restoring Mar Lodge Estate through extensive deer culls was widely criticised. In the first of a series of edited extracts from his new book, Andrew Painting shows why she has had the last laugh.

Hunched over, her favourite oldschool folding wooden ruler in hand, head tucked deeply into a midge net, Mar Lodge ecologist Dr Shaila Rao records the height of trees, which shoots have been browsed, and how many there are. She works and talks without stopping, measuring hundreds of seedlings in a sitting, barely pausing to catch a breath. She knows the trees well by now; she has measured some of them for seventeen years, and recognises them from year to year.

I’m on the computer, an old, beaten-up Toughbook, inputting the data, happy that the breeze is keeping away the worst of the midges, only slightly put out by the drizzle. A couple of days ago, the corpses of thousands of midges mixed with the rain, creating a soapy

paste that threatened to leach into the interior workings of the computer.

It is meticulous work, but she works quickly, and it takes a lot of concentration to keep up with her. After eighteen years of monitoring, Shaila has around 60,000 tree-height measurements, and hundreds of thousands of individual pieces of data.

Sheila is the estate ecologist: the in-house go-to person for all things ecological. It’s her job to provide the science that informs management decisions on the ground. Since 2002, she has been the driving force behind some of the more remarkable recent changes to the Mar Lodge woodlands. Among many other things, she has been counting and measuring tree seedlings

in seventeen quadrats (10 metre x 10 metre squares) strewn across the woods. Today’s quadrat is in Glen Derry, on the edge of the pinewood, with a frankly phenomenal view of the pines stretching out towards Derry Cairngorm and Beinn Mheadhoin.

In 1995, the Trust embarked on its plan to save the pinewood. The number of deer would be drastically reduced to give the woods a chance to regenerate. This plan would be in harmony with the wider sporting interests of the estate. Environmentalists eagerly awaited the revival of the pinewood. Sporting interests also watched on, some curious, some excited, some concerned that the grand scheme would bring about the end of their way of life, and their income.

It quickly became clear that landscape-scale deer reduction was not a simple task. After seven years of controversial deer management there was little sign of the woodland recovering. In 2002, the average size of the seedlings in her quadrats was 9 centimetres. As soon as they grew above the height of nearby vegetation they were chomped back again.

Shaila watched this happen for five years. ‘It was desperate. It was totally frustrating because you were setting up monitoring, providing information, showing that the majority of seedlings were being quite heavily damaged, but we weren’t seeming to respond to that in terms of management. In the quadrats it could take an hour just to count the deer dung.

Shaila Rao, ecologist at Mar Lodge since 2002 and a driving force behind the restoration of the Caledonian pinewoods

Photos: Andrew Painting

The regenerating Caledonian pinewoods of Mar Lodge, where the area of native semi-natural woodland has more than doubled since 1995

Mar Lodge ranger Ben Dolphin beset by midges while inputting data on a typical August day

I used to look up and see a group of deer sitting above me, watching me work.’

Back in 1998, to complement annual surveys, 3.7 hectares of woodland were monitored in extremely close detail. Just four seedlings were recorded above the height of the adjacent vegetation. The 2008 survey noted worrying mortality levels in mature pine trees, while there were 10 per cent fewer birches. At the rates of growth recorded, the pinewoods could well be lost.

After a decade of controversial management and little to show for it, the period from 2008 to 2012 was a difficult one at Mar Lodge. Ecologically, things had been so bad for so long that a concerted effort to clear the woods of all but a token presence of deer was needed to give the trees the fighting chance they needed. But as deer numbers were reduced, the lack of competition and improving food source created a vacuum that sucked in deer from neighbouring estates.

‘It was a stormy period of time,’ says Shaila. ‘When I look back, it was awful. There was a kickback from some of the neighbouring estates, and internally there was mixed feeling about the policy. Some people felt it was futile that we were shooting all these deer when there was nothing to show for it. And part of it was about the manner in which we were killing deer, and not putting up fencing [this had been tried in the 1990s but was found responsible for the deaths of several capercaillie who flew into it]. We had two or three meetings in the village where you could have cut the air with a knife. It was very unpleasant for the people working here.’

In 2011, buffeted from all sides, the Trust decided to undertake an independent review of their management. This took evidence from staff, neighbouring estates, the local community and conservation experts about how Mar Lodge was being managed. It did not make for particularly comfortable reading.

New strategies were implemented. The fourkilometre-long, off-set electric fence recommended by the review was installed: in the woods, two parallel, low fences which would be too wide for deer to jump over, wouldn’t kill woodland grouse, and would allow the movement of other creatures. It showed that the Trust was capable of listening to criticism and willing to work collaboratively. In 2012, the little bar on Shaila’s graph topped 25 centimetres.

Yet by 2015 Shaila’s graphs were beginning to look respectable. In fact, the trees had nearly doubled in size since 2012. By 2016, twenty years after the Trust took on the estate, the tide had turned. A detailed survey that year found 835 hectares of regenerating woodland: the Caledonian pinewood was set to double in size. In 2017, the estate was designated a National Nature Reserve. By 2019, the average height of trees in Shaila’s plots was tipping 80 centimetres, with the tallest pines topping 2.5 metres. Many of these had shot up since 2008 – new seedlings, unencumbered by grazing, growing faster than the original seedlings which had survived –just – decades of nibbling. Trees grew more on average in one year between 2018 and 2019 than in the six between 2002 and 2008.

By 2019, it wasn’t just the pines. Birches, rowans, willows and juniper were growing vigorously. Orchids, lesser and common twayblade, small white orchid, frog orchid, were beginning to appear in places they hadn’t been recorded before. Wildflowers which were rare a decade ago were becoming almost commonplace: alpine meadow-rue, globeflower, Scottish asphodel. There was more heather, more blaeberry, more wildflower species. Lesser twayblade, one of my favourite orchids, had increased by 233 per cent. Wood ant nests had changed shape to cope with the

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increase in vegetation height, becoming on average 55 per cent taller over twenty years. Deadwood was accumulating, providing habitat for more insects, and nesting sites for more birds.

This is exactly what the conservationists demanding a reduction in deer numbers twenty-five years before had said would happen. And yet to see it happen is a bit of a shock. This is ecological processes unfolding on a landscape scale. It is nothing less than the mechanics of the universe writ large across thousands of hectares of land. It is all rather beautiful.

of Farming Scotland can claim an exclusive 10% discount on copies of Regeneration: The Rescue of a Wild Land by Andrew Painting PLUS free P&P in the UK. Order online https://birlinn.co.uk/product/regeneration-3/ quoting FS23 at the checkout.

Readers

The second largest Scots pine in the country, surrounded by regenerating pines birches and rowans

The oldest one at Mar Lodge, dating back to at least 1477

Photos: Andrew Painting

Photo: Shaila Rao

New team at the top to lead Women in Agriculture Scotland

Heather Wildman and Carole Brunton have been appointed as Chair and Vice Chair respectively of Women in Agriculture Scotland (WiAS) and will lead the organisation’s work to create a more progressive, successful, and inclusive industry.

Appointed at the recent Annual General Meeting, both Heather

and Carole said they want their combined experience to help shape the focus of WiAS through the delivery of various regional events and workshops.

Based in Dumfries and Galloway, Heather has over 26 years’ experience of working with both farmers and agricultural stakeholders across the UK to

meet industry challenges and changes head on. She became a RHASS Director in 2019 and in 2012 completed a Nuffield Farming scholarship on the topic: ‘Communication – influencing and motivating change’.

“I feel honoured to be elected Chair of Women in Ag Scotland, especially during a time when our

agricultural industry has undergone an unprecedented upheaval in recent years and there are tough challenges ahead.

“For us to truly rise to these challenges, I believe the work of groups, such as WiAS, will become more important. During 2023, our focus will be to continue to build on the fantastic work the committee

has done so far to increase the confidence of our members to achieve their aspirations and create a more progressive, successful, and inclusive industry. “

WiAS’s new Vice Chair Carole Brunton, based in East Neuk of Fife, is a Project Coordinator with the Royal Highland Education Trust alongside working on the family farm.

“This year we’ve really listened to our membership and have delivered four very successful events which included farm tours, workshops and networking. We’ve already started planning our events for next year, and I would strongly encourage anyone – male or female – to become a member and be the first to know when tickets go on sale.”

In addition to the new leadership team, WiAS – which has over 750 registered members – elected three members to join the Committee to serve a threeyear term.

Ailsa Smith, Doreen Anderson and Iona Smith bring a wide range of skills and experience in social media, governance, marketing, and facilitation to complement the existing committee.

Over sixty people attended the combined AGM and autumn event and enjoyed a full programme of events. The morning session kicked off with Claire and Nikki from Ardross Farm who shared their story about how the farm is run, how the shop started and how the business has evolved. Claire discussed the farm and the ups and downs she’d had along the way. Nikki shared the story of the farm shop and commercial kitchen and the importance of the family and wider team who all play an important role within the business.

Committee Member Lucy Mitchell who is the current chairperson for The Scottish Association of Young Farmers (SAYFC) and Events Manager at The James Hutton Institute shared her story about growing up on the family beef farm in Fife and the important role Young Farmers has played in her journey.

Claire, Nikki & Lucy shared their moving experiences of a family tragedy and the impact it had on them. They all talked about the importance they now place on family and of making the most out of life.

The final speaker of the morning was Mary-Jane Lawrie from SAC Consulting who leads the Farm Advisory Service (FAS) Women in Agriculture Events. Mary-Jane and her colleagues have set up a network of regional groups across Scotland to educate women working in, and connected to, agriculture on a range of agriculture-related topics - more info below.

After lunch, participants were split into three groups to attend three different workshops.

• Workshop 1 was delivered by Kirsty and Morna from the Be Your Best Self (BYBS) Course who ran a workshop on resilience.

• Workshop 2 was delivered by Anna Davies from Scene & Herd who also contributes to the BYBS course. Anna’s session looked at Social Media and how to have positive conversations and share your story.

• Workshop 3 was a speed networking session which allowed participants to meet with new contacts and build their networks within agriculture - an important role of Women in Agriculture Scotland.

WiAS’s events for 2023 are included below and members and non-members alike are encouraged to attend:

• Regional Event 10 March 2023: Sinclair Agricultural and Recycling Services, Aberdeenshire

• Royal Highland Show Breakfast, 22 June 2023

• Regional Event 6 September 2023: The Coo Shed, Ayr

• AGM and Autumn Event, 8 November 2023

For more information, please ensure you are registered to receive the WiAS newsletter and following the social media accounts.

Southern Belle

Hampering my ‘Buy Local; ethos!

For the first time in three years, I can look forward to my first overseas tour job since March 2020 – it will be travelling to the Caribbean, which involves two short flights between islands.

There is no bigger incentive to diet than having to admit your weight and luggage capacity before boarding. On return from a tour conference to Turkey, in November, my scales and I both groaned and operation ‘cut back’ was set in motion and frankly (to date) is working quite well.

I have no preconceptions that I will be ‘bikini ready’ by February but then I haven’t been bikini ready since 1978. New tour, new round of ‘where are you off on holiday next’, ‘can I hide in your case’ and ‘you are so lucky’. Having involved a couple of my friends in some of my ‘work’ last summer, they now agree that they would not want my job. It took one only an hour to concede!

Fortunately, working 16 hours a day for two weeks straight, continually smiling and visiting fabulous places, with great clients is a joy for me and I can’t wait to get back into the swing of things. The summer will also bring the incoming

groups from New Zealand and Australia again and I am excited to see them.

I understand that my work has more influence on the climate than a herd of cows farting but in my defence I am a bore (to friends and clients alike) about buying local, using local services and drinking from the tap!

That’s unlike a hamper which arrived recently. While clearly pushing the ethical sustainable line (I would have been happier with a selection of haggis and sausages) it clearly missed the air miles implication of the following: nuts from Dublin (clearly not grown there); biscuits from Australia and Sweden; cake from Italy; olive oil from Greece; crackers from India; and tea packed in the EU having been flown from Rwanda.

The only product boasting British origin was … popcorn! Presumably made from USA corn. This from a generation who think we got it all wrong! What’s wrong with Scottish rapeseed oil, oatcakes, shortbread, clootie dumpling, tablet, Ecclefechan tart and Irn Bru. Now that’s a hamper. Diet over!

Flexibility is the key to new farm accounts software

For farmers, accounting software is a vital tool in their business administration but you’re not alone if your current accounts program doesn’t quite meet your unique farm’s needs. SUM-IT’s brand new TOTAL2 Accounts software has been specifically developed to handle every aspect of farm accounts.

Launched at LAMMA, TOTAL2 Accounts is the first module to be released in the next generation of TOTAL2 software, providing a wide degree of versatility to suit any

size or type of farm enterprise. SUM-IT’s Sales Director, Ben John, explains:” One of the most important factors with all software these days is accessibility and we knew that while many of our users will benefit from operating TOTAL2 Accounts in the Cloud, there are a considerable proportion of SUM-IT users based in rural locations with weak broadband service and therefore running their accounts in the Cloud just isn’t an option for them. It was therefore critical to provide the

flexibility of both Cloud and Local options with our new TOTAL2 platform”.

TOTAL2 Accounts provides both cashbook and full accounting modes, so you can either keep it very simple with recording your paid purchases and receipts or have the flexibility to enter unpaid invoices, get the VAT reclaimed and track what’s outstanding at any time. Either way, you are able to analyse individual enterprise gross margins and specific machinery costings at the click of a button.

Full links to HMRC’s Making Tax Digital service take care of the VAT Returns and will address MTD ITSA submissions when they start in 2024.

Accountants also get a free Auditor version of TOTAL2 Accounts software to either log into their client’s data online, once authorised by the client, or access an emailed copy of the data, making it easy to view the data for Year-End Auditing.

For further information please visit www.sum-it.co.uk or call SUM-IT on 01844 213003.

ABP announces £1.5 million investment in beef & lamb sustainability programme

ABP has today announced an investment of £1.5 million in a unique sustainability programme which will support 350 of its farmer suppliers, and share wider learnings across the UK beef and sheep sectors.

The new programme, called PRISM 2030, will provide farmers with a support framework initially over 2-3 years. The aim of the programme is to help participants to improve their carbon footprint and sustainability across the entirety of the farm. The detailed programme will include assessment of carbon footprint, soil health, water use

and support biodiversity creation and resource efficiency.

Support from Harper Adams University and The Andersons Centre will ensure that farmers have direct and ongoing access to, and feedback from, the very latest environmental innovations and methodologies. A sustainability grant will also be available, alongside peer-to-peer learning and expert advice throughout.

Commenting, Dean Holroyd, Group Technical and Sustainability Director for ABP, said; “British red meat production is amongst the most sustainable in the world, but we can and must do more because as an industry, we are well placed to be part of the climate solution.”

“So we want to build on this position of strength, and while

finance

PRISM will mean direct support for those in our supply base who qualify for the programme, all of the outcomes will be made available to the wider industry.

“In this way, it’s our hope that this initiative will play a part in helping beef and sheep farmers across the country become the global leaders in sustainable meat production – with lower emissions, lower costs and improved productivity.”

Improving animal health and welfare will also be key to the process, as this can be linked to up to a 10% reduction in emissions, according to the Acting on Methane report launched in April 2022 by Ruminant Health & Welfare.

Chair of Ruminant Health & Welfare and former president of NFUS, Nigel Miller, commented on the new programme: “Having a net zero goal means we must all contribute carbon savings and be prepared to change, and this ABP initiative, working with farming partners, has the potential to identify the value of effective health management and be a signpost for the whole industry.

“Management of livestock health is a key component of all viable low carbon production systems,” continued Nigel Miller, who is a beef and sheep farmer based in Galashiels. “Focusing herd or flock health programmes on diseases that impact growth rates and/or food conversion efficiency can directly reduce methane emissions; countering conditions that cause involuntary culling, including reproductive failure and lameness, can eliminate a significant carbon cost from breeding systems.”

The collaboration with Andersons is led by partner and Senior Research Consultant Michael Haverty, who, with his team, will focus on carbon assessments as well as other sustainability benchmarking.

Professor Jude Capper leads the input from Harper Adams, and will be indicating what areas each producer could be focusing on over the duration of the project to achieve most gains.

THEMONEYMAN

Land tax and legal issues

By Ian Craig

I spoke recently at an event with a firm of land agents and there was a huge amount of interest from the audience in land prices and forecasts. The agents offer various good reasons for the current prices paid. Whilst there has been an uplift in input costs, certain sectors have also seen an equivalent increase in commodity prices. Also, lack of supply, IHT reliefs, good long term investment and the old adage “they are not making any more of it” were some of the other reasons. The lack of supply will be partly due to there being no good reason for some landowners to sell.

The Basic Payment regime continues for the time being and renting out land provides an income, so why sell if you don’t have to?

The ownership and letting of land throws up many taxation and legal considerations. For those landowners who choose not to actively farm the land there are several choices. Land can be let out on modern limited duration tenancies. These leases offer flexibility and are now widely used and understood. Farm land and property that qualifies for Agricultural Property Relief (APR) can be relieved from Inheritance Tax at a rate of either 50% or 100%. For any lease granted after September 1995 there will be 100% Agricultural Property Relief available, but not until the land has

been owned and used for agriculture purposes for 7 years.

Where the owner farms the land then 100% APR is available after occupation of 2 years. There are various arrangements to allow landowners to act as the farmer. These include a partnership, share farming and contract farming arrangements. Contract farming is the most common and there are various different styles adopted. These joint agreements generally have the landowner receiving a rent equivalent, referred to as a first charge, and then a small share of the annual profit. The contractor gets a fixed amount for his input to the farm and a share of any profit made.

With a Contracting arrangement the key difference from any lease is that the landowner is participating in the trading activity. What tax advantages does that bring? With Inheritance Tax there can be some, although

HMRC may challenge cases involving a Contract Farming agreement, contesting that the farm management is being undertaken by the contractor rather than the landowner. This can be a practical reality, particularly where over the passage of time the landowner becomes elderly or suffers from ill health.

If Inheritance Tax benefits cannot be guaranteed with a Contracting Agreement there can be Capital Gains Tax advantages available. If a landowner sells a farm Capital Gains Tax can be payable at a maximum rate of 20%. There is a reduced rate of Capital Gains Tax for those qualifying for Business Asset Disposal Relief on gains up to a lifetime limit of £1m. To qualify for Business Asset Disposal Relief the landowner must have been trading for 24 months and using the land in the course of the trade. Where all the land is let there will be no opportunity to claim Business Asset Disposal Relief. If a sale is a possibility in the future a Contracting Agreement will probably be more advantageous to a landowner than some form of lease.

Any landowners planning to let land or enter into a Contracting Agreement should consider all the legal and tax issues. Sadly it is often not until after the death of a family member that a lack of planning is exposed, by which time it is too usually too late.

If you would like to discuss any aspect of this contact Partner, Ian Craig on 01738 441 888 or email ian.craig@azets.co.uk.

Ian is a Partner at Azets, accounting, tax, audit, advisory and business services group.

Ian Craig, Partner at Azets

KUHN launches new lightweight drill

KUHN has unveiled an updated, lightweight Megant drill featuring new tine coulters, an updated terminal, and the option to add a second hopper. The Megant 602R shares functionality with the previous 600 model, but features half width shut off and can be specified with an additional SH 1120, 110 litre hopper to drill two crops in the same pass. Due to its lightweight design, the Megant can be operated by tractors with as little as 150 horsepower. Three types of tines can be specified on the Megant, including reversible forward action, straight, and a new narrow 12mm straight tine coulter which reduces soil displacement through improved penetration and also reduces wear on the tine thanks to the addition of carbide plated points.

A new VT 30 terminal makes the Megant suitable for tractors with and without ISOBUS. Large buttons, a shock proof casing and ergonomic design make the terminal easier to operate and more durable. Compatibility with both KUHN CC1 800-1200 and other ISOBUS terminals will make the Megant more accessible to all users and will offer the economy of not needing to purchase a second control

terminal for tractors already fitted with a compatible model.

The 602R has inherited some features from the larger ESPRO drill including spring loaded nonstop track eradicators and side markers that are better suited to dry conditions. A new welded 1800 litre hopper capable of holding 1200 kilos of wheat and drilling 60 hectares a day replaces a riveted hopper on the previous model. The new hopper also includes internal steps to improve access to the distribution head.

The improved hopper features a shut off door enabling operators to isolate the two compartments. This makes it possible to adjust the metering unit when the hopper is full and helps to prevent seed settling in the metering unit when the Megant is in transit.

The Megant has been fitted with KUHN’s VISTAFLOW valves which can be configured and controlled from the terminal. This enables operators to program the flow of seed with the option to save settings for future use. VISTAFLOW also records tramlining configurations such as the working width and wheel track to enable more accurate

CLAAS LEXION honoured at SIMA 2022

With the FARM MACHINE Awards, outstanding innovations in agricultural engineering are honored in the annual alternation of Agritechnica and SIMA. One of the coveted awards went to

the latest generation of LEXION combine harvesters from CLAAS.

In the 100th year of its existence, SIMA will take place on a new date in November.

use

of sprayers and fertiliser spreaders which will help to reduce input costs.

The Megant 602R is available to order in the UK with RRP’s starting at £42,760.

On the first day of the fair, outstanding innovations in agricultural engineering are traditionally honored with the FARM MACHINE Award. CLAAS was able to impress the jury of international trade journalists in the combine harvester category this year with the new LEXION, which was presented to the public in summer 2022.

With four model ranges the LEXION is the spearhead of the CLAAS combine harvester range and is manufactured in Harsewinkel, Germany and in Omaha in the US. The innovations introduced for the 2023 season include a larger cab with a rotating driver’s seat, the new CEMIS 1200 terminal with the new GPS PILOT, performance and crop flow optimization, larger grain tanks and optional additional equipment such as a pivoting spout for the grain tank discharge auger or the variable steering

ratio DYNAMIC STEERING. In addition, new CEMOS functionalities are available for process optimization in terms of productivity and efficiency. In Europe, the LEXION 8600 also supplements the product range.

“With the LEXION, CLAAS has been setting pioneering accents in combine harvester construction since 1995 and has continued this innovative strength ever since,” explains Jan-Hendrik Mohr, who is responsible for the grain harvesting business area on the CLAAS Group Executive Board. “We are particularly pleased that, after the TRION series was awarded the title of FARM MACHINE 2022, we can now continue this success with the new LEXION. The FARM MACHINE Awards and other awards are an incentive for us to continue to live up to our claim as a benchmark for highperformance combines in the interests of our customers.”

AMAZONE KE 6002-2 Rotamix rotary harrow 6 m folding for solo use

AMAZONE has extended its range of new KE 02 Rotamix rotary harrows by the addition of a foldable 6 m variant. The KE 6002-2 400 Rotamix is approved for tractors up to 400 hp and is characterised particularly by its high output, its good crumbling action and thus its ability to generate fine soil.

With the KE 6002-2-400, AMAZONE is offering a new

machine, which has been developed primarily for high work rates. The rotary harrow is very high-performing, thanks to its working width of 6 m. Quick folding to a 3 m transport width also ensures rapid and safe transport between fields. It is designed for solo use and cannot be coupled to a seed rail.

The KE 6002-2-400 rotary harrow with the Rotamix system

has four tine carriers per metre working width over which the incoming power is distributed. The trailing tines produce a very good crumb structure, even on heavy soils. The new rotary harrows are therefore very well suited for seedbed preparation, particularly following the plough.

The number of tine carriers permits the use of a smaller spur gear diameter. This has allowed the design of the rotary harrow trough to be very robust, yet very compact and therefore lightweight. The short coupling ensures that the leverage effect on the tractor is reduced, and it therefore has a lesser lifting power requirement than with other rotary harrows.

The tried and tested Quick+Safe system provides the 290 mm tines with an integrated stone release and the tines can be easily exchanged without the need for tools.

Kramer presents new products at the agricultural autumn trade fairs

The innovations in the zero emission sector: In 2016, Kramer was the first manufacturer to present the all-wheel steered e-wheel loader, which was awarded numerous innovation prizes at the time. This year, Kramer is showing the successor to today’s successful model, the KL25.5e. The largest e-wheel loader in the Kramer portfolio is equipped with a 96-volt lithiumion battery for a runtime of up to 4 hours without intermediate charging. From a design perspective, the e-wheel loader also impresses with its flattened battery hood design for optimum rear visibility. Regardless of the e-technology, the loader offers compact dimensions while delivering optimal performance values in stacking and bucket operation. With a stacking payload of 1,750 kilograms and an operating weight of 3,800 kilograms, the wheel loader is in no way inferior to its diesel counterpart.

The second zero emission highlight is an ultra-compact, electric telescopic loader, the KT144e. Here, too, the 96volt lithium-ion technology is

installed. With its dimensions, a height of less than 2 metres and a width of about 1.60 metres, as well as its maximum operating weight of 3,250 kilograms, it has amazing performance data. Both the performance parameters, off-road mobility and its ease of operation match the characteristics of the conventional Kramer KT144 diesel telescopic handler. The overall performance of the vehicle even exceeds that of the diesel model: thanks to the electric motor, power is immediately available in the travel drive and in the loading system. The maximum speed of the e-telescopic loader is 25 km/h. An 18 kWh or 28 kWh battery is available for this model.

The Malcolm Group Hosted the Hamilton Ross Group & Massey Ferguson Joint

“Born to Farm” Event

Massey Ferguson, proud to celebrate their 175th anniversary in 2022, embarked on a UK tour of labelled “Born to Farm” events, taking the opportunity to showcase their full range of machinery, from tractors to hay implements. In Scotland, the Hamilton Ross Group was one of the chosen dealerships to organise two of these events – the latter one was hosted at the Donald Malcolm Heritage Centre in Linwood, Group Head Office of the Malcolm Group.

The choice of the venue boasted great significance, as similarly to the Hamilton Ross Group, the Malcolm Group is another successful familyrun business embedded in the local community. On Thursday 24th November, the Heritage Centre was open to the public (upon invitation) from 1pm to 9pm. On display were a wide variety of machines – including the 5S Series, Winner of the Farm Machine 2023 Award at the SIMA Show, and the latest addition 8S Series, boasting an impressive 305HP and the new Dyna VT transmission system.

A steady flow of tractor enthusiasts came through the door, and overall we counted over 300 people. The full team of Sales Managers from the Hamilton Ross Group attended

the event to provide expert advice to their customers, along with representation from the Service & Parts Departments. They also received the help of the Marketing & Sales Managers from Massey Ferguson, and additional support from partners

AGCO Finance, ALO & Trelleborg.

There really was entertainment for every member of the family, and kids showed up in high numbers as the schools happened to be on strike – pedal tractors and trucks satisfied

some of their curiosity, while the rest enjoyed the goody bags provided by Massey Ferguson (comprising of a bobble hat, a brochure and a keyring) and the adults got the chance to take the demo tractors out for a test drive in the car park.

Flex-Load available on all Strautmann Forage Wagon for 2023

Following the success of the Flex-Load pick-up testing in the field, Flex-Load has been rolled out across the Strautmann range and is available as an option on

all Forage Wagons. It is fitted as standard on all Magnon machines.

Strautmann has ensured that the Flex-Load pick-up design will

minimise tine wear and breakage and therefore downtime, due to easy tine replacement without having to remove the pickup bands. Additionally, all

Straumann Forage Wagons are designed with camless pickups which allows flex over the working width and reduces wear and downtime and saves on fuel.

David Mein, OPICO’s product specialist for the Strautmann range said “I’ve been really impressed with the Flex-Load pick-up – it does a really efficient job, and the flexibility of the tines means that foreign objects aren’t collected with the grass – since using FlexLoad I haven’t seen a tine break yet. On the Magnon 10 the Flexload pick up is hydraulically driven and is therefore adaptable to forward speed, optimising the performance of the grass collection.”

Flex-Load tines are made from a flexible durable polyurethane plastic meaning they adapt to ground undulations, rather than penetrating the ground. This significantly reduces the likelihood of soil and stone contamination into the cutting unit. The gentle Flex-Load is also ideal for all crop conditions.

Rise of the drones in rural crime

Drones are being piloted over farms and land by thieves to identify potential targets. This relatively new technology allows thieves to explore farms from the air where they will be used to identify security weak spots – the aerial footage is allowing thieves to gain intelligence about farm movements, buildings, entry and exit points, and security such as CCTV cameras and of course equipment and machinery – all without detection.

Light-weight drones do not require a licence – therefore,

the price of unmanned aerial vehicles is getting lower all the time and can be as little as only £50-£100.

Quad bikes and ATVs are amongst the biggest target for thieves owing to their portability, high value and ease to sell world-wide. Owners of these vehicles are being encouraged to increase security following a significant rise in thefts as the use of drones is rising to scope out farms and rural properties.

Each year, it is estimated between 800 and 1,100 all-

Drones are rapidly becoming a weapon of choice for thieves targeting farm machinery and vehicles. The gathering of intelligence is happening in ‘specifically-targeted’ actions by well-organised gangs and criminals.

machinery

terrain vehicles (ATVs) are stolen from farms across the United Kingdom - with criminals targeting rural communities before quickly selling on stolen equipment and machinery.

A tiny part can make a big impact – fuelling the increase in theft of ATVs

This figure is set to rise as the global shortage of components and microchips is holding up manufacturing and across-theboard – this includes ATVs and Quad bikes. Before the supply chain issue, a farmer could visit a local ATV dealer and pick up a replacement vehicle with ease, sometimes within a week or so but now, there’s a waiting list of anything up to a year!

CESAR Compact System

Identification of stolen compact vehicles, such as ATVs and quads has already been made far easier with CESAR.

This proven technology is being utilised by most leading manufacturers, and members of the farming community currently retrofit the CESAR Compact System, to their new and used agricultural vehicles.

The CESAR Compact System reduces the risk of theft by enabling plant owners to apply a permanent identification to their assets through a combination of proven Datatag technologies including tamper evident warning labels, RFID transponders and Datadots® with forensic DNA solution. It’s also backed by Datatag’s secure 24/7 Contact Centre.

A guide to safeguard farm property from thieves:

• Video: In this video Bob Henderson (NFU) talks to DC Chris Pigott (NaVCIS) about how to prevent Quad Bike theft with simple yet effective steps to stop theft and aid recovery. Also how premium a discount on insurance is offered by NFU

Mutual with Quads and ATVs fitted with approved immobilisers. Check out the video to find out more…

PREVENTING QUAD BIKE THEFT – THE FOURTH IN A SERIES OF VIDEOS TO COMBAT RURAL CRIME.

(cesarscheme.org)

• Although farmers may use drones for agricultural purposes, if you start seeing or hearing a drone over your property, report it to the Police. Thieves launching drones could be parked in close proximity as they need to do so from a fairly close distance but some drones can fly a few miles away from the operator.

• Keeping ATVs, quad bikes etc safe from being spotted by drones, keep it out of sight whenever possible, especially at the end of the working day. Keep all valuable tools and equipment in a building or out of sight from the air, if possible.

• Lock farm equipment and remove keys from the ignition; keep keys in a secure location that thieves cannot access.

• Record vehicle, serial, model and chassis numbers and take pictures of your vehicle, especially any distinctive markings.

• Use forensic marking & registration technology, such as the Official CESAR Security System, to assist the Police in recovering and identifying stolen vehicles and property and prosecuting thieves.

• Lock and chain your vehicle if possible and ideally fit immobilisation and a GPS tracking system to your vehicles if you can.

www.farmingscotlandmagazine.com

BvL: New twin-auger 4-cylinder selfpropelled variant

BvL has extended its series of selfpropelled mixer wagons to include a compact 4-cylinder version, the V-MIX Drive Maximus Plus 2S, with a larger container volume.

The development of selfpropelled mixer wagons at Bernard van Lengerich Maschinenfabrik GmbH & Co. KG (BvL) in Emsbüren goes all the way back to the 1990s. Since then, the appearance and features of the machines have changed substantially. Currently, the V-MIX Drive Maximus Plus, is available in single and double auger variants with 4- and 6-cylinder engines, respectively.

The new V-MIX Drive Maximus Plus 2S combines the base of the single auger self-

propelled machine but with the container of the double auger machine. The result is a robust machine with a large container volume of 19 m3 or 21 m3, but

with a smaller engine compared to the standard double auger self-propelled machine. The 174 HP 4-cylinder machine is therefore in the middle price

range between the two previous BvL self-propelled machines.

The new V-MIX Drive series is ideal for use as a farmyard machine, but can be registered

for road use and is suitable for short distances to remote barns or other areas of the farm. Since the machine is equipped with a separate transmission, the mixing process with both augers is no problem whatsoever despite the smaller engine, and cleaning is also facilitated by very high RPMs.

The time-proven and longlasting structure roller in this mixer wagon also ensures removal of feed without damage to the physical structure of the mix. Other BvL features, such as automatic remixing or maneuvering with the crawler gear function, are of course also standard equipment.

The machine is also available with new extra options, such as additional storage capacities and loading functions, an additional LED light unit over the cab, or virtually panoramic visibility due to the new Bird View camera system.

HORSCH Sprinter drills put big productivity in compact dimensions

The new HORSCH Sprinter SL and SC drills bring the latest features and innovations of the large-scale Sprinter NT drill in a

more compact format suited to UK farming. The trailed 12m Sprinter 12.25 SC and mounted 6m Sprinter 6.25 SL drills feature 25cm row

spacing and can be folded to the 3m transport width required for movement on UK road. The Sprinter 6.25 SL can be combined

with the HORSCH Partner FT to create a highly manoeuvrable mounted drill setup. Sales of pre-series Sprinter SL and SC machines will be available in 2023. Both Sprinter SL and SC drills are available with HORSCH’s latest tine coulters. There are different seed coulter options from the Ultra ThinEdge seed coulter, that provides a 12mm wide seed band to ensure minimum of soil movement, the ThinEdge coulter with a 21mm wide seed band (ideal for sowing catch crops directly into the stubble), to the WideEdge tine seed coulter that has a 110mm wide seed band. A more compact version of the highly regarded Sprinter NT, the 12m Sprinter 12.25 SC complements a 3m transport width with a 4m transport height to make it even more manoeuvrable. It is equipped with a 6300-litre double hopper and will soon be available with a triple tank or additional MiniDrill options. The hopper design is based on that of the new Avatar 8.25 and can apply up to four components. The tines of the Sprinter 12.25 SC are hydraulically pre-stressed, with a coulter pressure up to 180kg, and can be retracted for transport. They ensure a high clearance between frame and surface as well as between the seed coulters making them ideal for direct or mulch seeding. The tines are individually depth-controlled with a press wheel and the 3-bar tine section and 25cm tine spacing offers a straw-free and clod-free sowing horizon.

Smallest compact Loadall joins JCB line-up with largest cab

JCB is introducing the 514-40, its smallest Loadall telescopic handler to date, with a height of just 1.8m and a width of 1.56m. However, the compact machine benefits from the largest operator’s cab in the class, sharing its core DNA with the world’s number one telehandler range.

JCB’s new Loadall 51440 telescopic handler brings together more than 45 years of telehandler development to create the smallest overall package, with big machine comfort and capabilities.At just 1.8m tall and 1.56m wide, the 514-40 has been designed to access the most confined sites. Small enough to fit through a 2m high doorway, the

machine delivers unparalleled manoeuvrability with all-wheel steering, making it an ideal telehandler for working in and around the smallest of buildings and farm yards, as well as at farm supply businesses, and in commercial horticulture

The telehandler is powered by a low maintenance 24.7hp (18.4 kW) diesel engine that meets the EU Stage V emissions standard without the need for a complex Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) or any diesel exhaust fluid, minimising operating costs for customers and simplifying operation.

This three-cylinder, 1.1-litre engine, which boasts 66.9Nm of torque, drives through a proven

Bosch hydrostatic transmission to a two-speed Linde motor, delivering a maximum travel speed of 10mph (15km/h).

SC Pro-Bio – giving organic matter a boost!

Maschio is introducing the SC Pro-Bio rotary cultivator to target cover crop incorporation culminating in improved soil organic matter. Product Manager, Dominic Burt, commented “We feel the time is right to introduce this shallow cultivator. The SC Pro-Bio has been designed to break down and incorporate crop residues, cover crops and green manures. Plant debris is mulched and mixed with fine soil in the top few centimetres, greatly accelerating the decomposition and transformation of residue into compost-like material.’

He continued; ‘Adding a Maschio front flail mower to the operation can further improve mulching and organic matter

breakdown, particularly in thick cover.”

Suitable for tractors between 110hp and 170hp, the SC ProBio is equipped with 6 ‘L’ type blades per flange and can be set at 540rpm or 1000rpm with a rotor speed of up to 300rpm.

To guarantee the same depth across the whole working width 2.8m or 3.1m, the SC ProBio has four depth wheels to ensure optimum stability and uniformity when doing shallow work. Working at depths of 3cm – 6cm the SC Pro-Bio can work to speeds of up to 10km/hr.

To aid aeration the bonnet adjusters can be adjusted hydraulically from the tractor seat to allow perfect control of soil mixing.

Merlo UK 2022 dealer awards

Titled “Partners for Life” the two day event was geared to give Merlo UK dealer partners an insight into the significant investments being planned by Merlo Group to meet future global demand for the Merlo product range.

Attendees were also given a full tour of the Merlo onsite manufacturing & production facility, had an opportunity to drive and test a wide range of Merlo products and were shown the latest new Merlo product developments to be launched in 2023.

The conference concluded with the Merlo UK 2022 Awards Dinner. Held in the historic 600 year old Castello Rosso castle the event recognised Merlo UK’s top performing dealers across several categories.

Ramsay & Jackson - Parts Dealer of the Year 2022.

Ramsay & Jackson could have been forgiven for slowing down their operation and potentially throwing in the towel following a devastating fire at their yard in April. However, the strength of character of the whole team at Ramsay & Jackson shone through as they continued to provide a first class parts service, despite operating in incredibly challenging circumstances. Add to that the fact that Ramsay & Jackson remain on course to achieve their 2022 forecast parts volumes is highly impressive.

Ancroft Tractors - Service Dealer of the Year 2022.

Ancroft Tractors is a dealer that has for many years provided a top quality, reliable service to

Merlo UK were pleased to welcome their dealers to the 2022 Merlo UK Dealer Conference at the beginning of December. The event was held at the global headquarters of Merlo Group in Cuneo, Italy.

From Left to Right: Merlo UK’s Robin Cooch, Ancroft Tractors’s Tom Brown, Merlo Group CEO Paolo Merlo.

From Left to Right: Merlo UK’s Robin Cooch, Ramsay & Jackson’s Neil Ramsay, Merlo Group CEO Paolo Merlo

their local Merlo customer base. A proactive approach to training ensures their Merlo technicians are equipped with the most up to date training and technology to provide an exemplary customer experience in any situation. With a ‘Service First’ approach Ancroft Tractors continues to offer their customers the very best in back-up and support!

Agriscope - Merlo Ambassador of the Year Award 2022.

Agriscope are the first recipient of the all-new Merlo Ambassador of the Year Award for exemplification of the values of the Merlo brand in customer service, communication and brand representation. Consistently going above-and-beyond expectations, Agriscope have shown year on year growth in their parts business all whilst maintaining an excellent reputation for aftersales support & service.

RVW Pugh - Agricultural Dealer of the Year 2022.

RVW Pugh are celebrating their 25th Year with the Merlo franchise this year. Displaying year in year out a consistently robust performance for Merlo agricultural sales, RVW Pugh have firmly hit, and exceeded their 2022 objectives. Operating across a very diverse farming area RVW Pugh of have succeeded in selling a wide range of Merlo agricultural telescopic handlers to farms large & small.

AF Wiltshire - Overall Dealer of the Year 2022.

AF Wiltshire are a long established Merlo dealer that has achieved an impressive result in terms of new machine sales in 2022 securing a very respectable local market share. Always ready to embrace new Merlo technology & products Wiltshires were one of the first UK dealers to operate their own fully electric eWorker demonstrator unit.

A focus on Merlo customer retention in 2022 has paid off with many customers returning to Wiltshires when the time has come to change their existing Merlo.

From Left to Right: Merlo UK’s Owen Buttle, Wiltshires’s Laura Wiltshire, Merlo Group CEO Paolo Merlo.

From Left to Right: Merlo Group CEO Paolo Merlo, Agriscope’s Richard Troop, Merlo UK’s Shaun Groom

From Left to Right: Merlo UK’s Owen Buttle, RVW Pugh’s Emma Pugh, Merlo Group CEO Paolo Merlo

Leading UK Dairy Event Spring 2023

Harrison & Hetherington has released the date for the 2023 Dairy Showcase which takes place annually at Borderway Mart, Carlisle.

Harrison & Hetherington, the UK’s leading auctioneers, has today announced that its annual dairy showcase, Borderway UK Dairy Expo will return next spring. The event, which is now a key industry event for dairy farmers across the globe, will take place on Friday 10th and Saturday 11th March 2023 and is expected to attract in the region of 7,000 visitors.

UK Dairy Expo acts as a shop window for breeders and producers and brings together some of the UK’s finest dairy stock. Alongside this, it is also a trade event where businesses within the industry can showcase the latest research, developments, and innovative technology that farmers can utilise to improve efficiency and

productivity as we navigate the uncertain times ahead.

The return of the event last year following the pandemic highlighted the outstanding reputation the event has earned since it inaugurated in 2012. In addition to those attending in person, viewers tuned in from as far as the USA, Australia, and New Zealand to watch the first ever livestreaming of the event.

Commenting on the announcement of the return of Borderway UK Dairy Expo, Harrison & Hetherington Dairy Sales Manager, Auctioneer, and event organiser, Glyn Lucas, said: “We were absolutely blown away by the support of last year’s Dairy Expo and are incredibly excited to see it return in 2023. The event has gone from strength to strength, and this is testament to all the hard work and commitment from everyone involved. I think it’s fair to say that Borderway UK

In addition to the livestock classes, the UK Dairy Expo programme will also include breed society shows and demonstrations, young handler classes, a trade exhibition and informative seminar series, although details of these will be finalised closer to the event.

Scott Donaldson adds: “With an ever-changing industry it’s so important to provide a platform for farmers to embrace and explore new and up-to-date trends and developments that might help them secure the future of their own enterprises.”

For more information on Borderway UK Dairy Expo, please visit: www. borderwayukdairyexpo.uk.

Save the date for the Spring Tractor World Show: Bookings Open Now

Take your hand off the tiller for a moment to put an important new date in your diary: The spectacular Spring Tractor World and Classic Commercial Show, at Malvern’s Three Counties Showground Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th March 2023.

The biggest and longestestablished show of its kind, 2023’s show packs in even more, including veteran, vintage and classic tractors and agricultural machinery, commercials, Land Rovers, club displays, stationary engines, miniature steam engines, models, and vintage horticultural and garden equipment. With all the event favourites visitors

love, Sunday sees the return of the popular Classic Commercial Drive-In Day.

Filling all three large exhibition halls at the wellconnected and equipped Three Counties Showground, comfort is guaranteed, with ample parking and refreshments. There’s shopping for every enthusiast, with the UK’s largest gathering of specialist, vintage, spares, model, workwear and gift traders, plus Saturday’s famous H.J Pugh & Co vintage auction, with over 100 tractors and 1500 lots expected.

Don’t miss out on the biggest event kicking off 2023! Secure

your trade, exhibit, auction or club place booking, purchase discounted advance day, weekend

and camping tickets, and see all information on the new website: www.tractorworldshow.co.uk.

Dairy Expo has become one of the principal dairy shows in not only the UK, but across the globe.”

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

DAVID TAYLOR

Hutchinsons has strengthened its horticulture team with the appointment of David Taylor to provide commercial support to colleagues across the UK.

Mr Taylor has been involved in the horticulture sector for more than 20 years, specialising in soft fruit agronomy and production, previously holding positions at a competitor company and Berry Garden Growers Ltd.

“I have previously also managed progressive soft fruit farms, and before I even got into horticulture, had various practical roles in general agriculture.

“Changing jobs, moving companies and leaving colleagues, friendships and loyal customers behind to start again is never easy, but after meeting with Hutchinsons and discussing ideas, plans and the opportunities available, I knew it was the right thing to do.”

NICO PAPWORTH

Timac Agro UK has appointed Nico Papworth as its new commercial manager.

Mr Papwoth joins the business after two years as head of both membership and the fertiliser manager at Worldmarsh Producers.

Having grown up on a progressive arable farm in Norfolk before studying at Harper Adams University, he brings a wealth of experience to the business.

“With farmers tackling market uncertainty while being encouraged to explore sustainable options, Timac Agro’s offering perfectly encompasses the direction the industry is being urged to head in,” says Mr Papworth.

MELANIE HARMITT

The Holstein UK Group is delighted to announce the appointment of Melanie Harmitt as the company’s new Chief Executive Officer.

Melanie joined Holstein UK in 2017 as Company Secretary and Chief Finance Officer. Her career before Holstein UK spanned a range of sectors and disciplines, with extensive experience in the operational aspect of businesses in particular the charity sector. She is a CIPFA qualified chartered accountant with 30 years accounting experience and specialist skills in public sector, education and charity accounting.

SIMON MONTGOMERY

The UK’s leading agronomy firm, ProCam, has appointed Simon Montgomery as Technical Team Lead for its Field Options division.

Simon joins Field Options following the retirement of Technical Director, Francis Dunne, and will be responsible for helping to bring the two operations of the business, Field Options and ProCam, closer together under one umbrella to deliver an improved service for both companies’ customers and personnel.

Set up in 2004, Field Options markets a comprehensive range of forage seeds and associated products: from grass mixtures, maize, fodder beet, and wholecrop forage mixtures to seeds for environmental schemes, green manures and game cover. The company also provides forage planning advice and supplies specialist fertilisers, silage inoculants and crop protection agrochemicals to livestock farmers throughout the UK.

THE BOOK SHELF

The Coffin Roads: Journeys to the West

By Ian Bradley

Winding throughout the Scottish Highlands and Islands, several popular walking and cycling paths are actually the remnants of coffin roads – trails along which bodies were carried for burial in the West Highland and Hebridean tradition. Just as it was believed the soul would depart, coffins were carried from east to west, sometimes on journeys which would take days, in the direction of the setting sun.

In his new book, Ian Bradley explores eight specific coffin roads– their history, significance, and cultural ties to beliefs surrounding dying, death, and mourning in their respective communities. Bradley uses the locations and landmarks around Scotland as the backdrop for a larger discussion about what these earlier traditions around death can teach us today, when open conversation about end of life can be considered taboo.

As a respected academic and Church of Scotland minister, Bradley’s account of this ancient and sacred Highland history is both accurate and considerate. His introduction is thoroughlyresearched, offering valuable commentary and accessible analysis on the role of coffin roads in early Highland culture, as well as illuminating which practices may have persisted in how funeral arrangements take place today.

Bradley delves deep into the practices associated with traversing the coffin roads, such as singing laments, also known as death croons, resting the coffin upon large cairns which can still be seen today, and even the occurrence of a mystical second sight. Known in Gaelic as manadh air bàs, those said to be gifted with the second sight would report seeing spectral funeral processions moving along a coffin road, which might help them to predict an impending death. The

rich and fascinating history of the coffin roads is beautifully depicted in this book.

Perhaps the best-known coffin road in Scotland is the Street of the Dead on Iona. Covered at length in the second chapter of this book, it is through this famous location that Bradley explores the history of Celtic Christian spirituality and beliefs about the afterlife. The Coffin Roads also includes other key locations, such as Kilmartin Valley, the archetypal coffin road, The Green Isle in Loch Sheil, the oldest continuously used burial place anywhere in Europe, and Kilearnadil Graveyard on Jura, a quintessential Highland graveyard.

According to Bradley, our current culture around death, which is usually sterile and detached, can make the grieving process more sudden and painful. By contrast, early Highlanders marked the departure from life gradually, with ritual and tradition, which helped the mourners process and heal. Though the subject matter may seem bleak, this book is an informative, entertaining read, peppered with intriguing anecdotes which offer incredible insight into how early Highlanders lived and what we can now learn from their way of life and death.

The Coffin Roads: Journeys to the West by Ian Bradley, published by Birlinn in July 2022 (£8.99, paperback) www.birlinn.co.uk