Midland Farmer January 2024

January 2024

Midland

Farmer Serving the farming industry across the Midlands

Cereal killer: Why oats are increasingly popular with UK millers and growers

News Cashflow key to successful 2024

Livestock Keep watch for bluetongue virus

Arable Spring crops surge after wet autumn

Professional services How to apply for productivity grant

Muck and slurry £74m fund for better slurry management

New market beckons: First crop of UK baked beans

Tel: 01480 495956

www.flr-cropdrying.com

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Midland Farmer

OPINION Johann Tasker

EDITORIAL Editor: Johann Tasker | T: 07967 634971 E: johann@ruralcity.co.uk

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Midland Farmer is a controlled circulation magazine published monthly for farmers and growers in the Midlands (Derbyshire, Herefordshire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, Northamptonshire, Nottinghamshire, Shropshire, Staffordshire, Warwickshire, West Midlands and Worcestershire) or companies supplying goods and services to the sector. To be included on the circulation list, a farmer must have a minimum of 70 acres of land, or 50 dairy/beef stock, or 50 breeding sows/250 growing stock, or 15,000 laying hens/broiler chickens. Intensive horticulture units are required to have a minimum of two hectares.

If you no longer wish to receive this magazine, please email your name, address and postcode as it appears on the wrapper to gemma.mathers@micropress.co.uk © Countrywide Publications 2024 Published by Countrywide Publications, Fountain Way, Reydon Business Park, Reydon Suffolk IP18 6DH T: 01502 725800 Printed by Micropress Printers Ltd T: 01502 725800

We must all drive the farming message home in 2024

T

he almost nailed-on certainty of a general election within the next 12 months means we all have an extra job to do this year by driving home the farming message in 2024.

In a country where people seldom question where their food comes from, farmers and growers are too often taken for granted. We live in a society where most consumers give only passing consideration to how their food has been produced – or indeed by whom.

And why should they care? After all, times are hard. Many people wince at the cost of their weekly food shop, shaking their heads at the sheer expense of it all. Despite the struggle many farmers face to make a living from food production, many consumers still find food too expensive – hence the rising number of food banks and charities.

Of course, we know that the problem certainly isn’t the pitiful prices farmers receive for producing food. It is the lack of value we place on food as a nation and the wider social, economic and political challenges faced by the UK as a whole.

It is this important message we need to get across as the UK prepares to go to the polls this year – possibly as early as May and almost certainly before Christmas.

Contents

In doing so, though, we have to be careful. Nobody wants to hear farmers moaning about their lot in life. It simply isn’t a good look – especially at a time when the whole country is cash-strapped.

Our schools need investment. So too do our hospitals and and transport system – including our potholed rural roads and motorways.

At times like these, our political leaders need solutions, not problems. Farming can provide at least some of the answers. And it is these answers we should seek to highlight.

As well as producing some of the best food in the world, UK farmers are delivering other benefits too. These include climate change mitigation and a better environment for everyone, better health in the form of better diets and the opportunity of a thriving rural economy and place to live.

Investment in farming then, is an investment that benefits the whole of society – not just farmers. As an industry, we need to remember that – and so do the politicians who will form the next government – of whatever political persuasion.

A vote for farming is a vote for the future.

Johann Tasker Editor

Vol 13 • No 1 • January 2024

News . ................................................................... 4

Livestock: Featuring Lambing 2024 . ......29

Arable: Spring crop management special ..... 8

Muck & Slurry ................................................. 32

Recommended Lists..................................... 27

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JANUARY 2024 • MIDLAND FARMER 3

News Farm outlook: Good cashflow will be key to successful 2024 • Top farm businesses remain profitable • Commodity prices under pressure • Mixed forecast for farm input costs

A

tight rein on cashflow will be key for farmers wanting to optimise their business performance this year, say analysts.

Balancing input costs and farm output will remain a challenge over the coming months, says Andersons Outlook 2024– the annual forecast for the year ahead published by the farm business consultancy.

Production costs have eased during the past year – but so too have commodity prices. This means returns in 2024 will remain under pressure after a tough 2023. But the best performing farm businesses will still be profitable.

Ag-inflation remains a challenge across the sector. Some individual input costs, including feed and fertiliser, have fallen. But overall costs look set to remain high, says the report. Even if inflation falls through out 2024, some costs may still rise as firms look to catch up, it warns.

Tighter margins Then there is the issue of timing on farm profits. For 2023, many inputs were purchased at peak cost with farm output sold into falling markets. This means many farm businesses face tighter margins going into 2024.

“These lower returns will be making themselves felt just as many businesses will have large tax bills to pay in January – caused by the high profits of previous years,” says Andersons partner Richard King.

“In cash terms, a lot of that profit will not be available because it has been tied-up in working capital to buy expensive inputs. ” Adding to the pressure is the rise in borrowing costs, adds Mr King.

4 MIDLAND FARMER • JANUARY 2024

“Farms which have loans and overdrafts on variable rates will have seen a sharp increase in the monthly cash payments required to service these borrowings. Finally, the amount of direct support coming into bank accounts is going to be much lower.”

Future support The phase-out of the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) means many farmers received at least two-thirds less in direct support for 2023 compared to 2020 – with larger farms facing even higher reductions. In 2024, the minimum cut will be 50%.

In addition, BPS payments are now being split, with half paid in the summer. This means top-up payments to bank accounts traditionally seen in December will be far smaller.

Input costs will be a challenge in the year ahead.

Picture: Ian Francis / Shutterstock.com

Below: Even a simple ledger can be helpful, says Richard King.

Regular payments under the Sustainable Farming Scheme may help to smooth cashflow in future. But only early-adopters will see much benefit this winter. Farmers should therefore consider their cash demands for the next few months carefully.”

Simple ledger “This need not be a sophisticated cashflow calculation,” says Mr King.

“A simple ledger of likely out- goings and incomings will provide a good sense of whether there is likely to be a cash crunch.

“Early discussions with lenders are likely to receive a favourable hearing as long as the underlying business is sound. Last-minute calls to extend overdrafts are unlikely to be accommodated so easily.”

Partial recovery for arable sector

A

rable profits will partially recovery in 2024 – but will remain lower than they were a just few years ago.

The net margin for an average-performing arable farm for harvest 2024 is expected to be £258/ha, suggests farm business consulant Tom Coate Strutt & Parker. This compares with a net margin of £208/ha for harvest 2023.

That said, net margins will remain well below

2021 and 2022. “While this is not a new message, it once again highlights the benefits of growers understanding their costs of production and monitoring fixed costs.

“Working capital requirements for farms rose by 40% to £173,604 in 2023 for an average performing 131ha farm. This is expected to reduce in 2024 but still put pressure on farm cashflow and finance requirements.

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News

Lincolnshire farmer grows first crop of UK baked beans

FARM DIARY January 3-5

Oxford Farming Conference • www.ofc.org.uk

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UK MANUFACTURER OF

B

ritish-grown baked beans are one step nearer thanks to a Lincolnshire farmer and scientists at Warwick University.

The first crop of commercially grown Capulet beans have been harvested by Andrew Ward, who farms at Leadenham, between Sleaford and Newark. Previously, baked beans have had to be imported from as far away as South America.

Grown using innovative agricultural methods developed at Warwick University’s Stratford-On-Avon Crop Centre, the Capulet beans have now been tinned, explained Professor Eric Holub (pictured right), who is working with Mr Ward to make the beans a success.

Growing baked beans commercially in the UK would reduce food miles, contribute to achieving climate goals in the food sector, saidProf Holub.

They would improve soil structure and help extend farm rotations by offering a short-season, nitrogen-fixing crop, he added.

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Capulet beans were a big step towards a sustainable UK-sourced food product, in line with Warwick University’s mission to spearhead agricultural advancements and tackle global food security challenges.

Professor Holub said: “Self-sufficiency in food production is important for reducing human impact on global climate. British-grown beans can help us shift our diets to a healthier future, adding to UK ingredients.”

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Fatstock Cup double for Oswestry farmer

O

swestry sheep farmer Martin Jones completed a notable silverware double at Christmas fatstock show and sales at livestock markets in Shropshire.

Mr Jones, from Lower Forest, The Racecourse, followed a cup win at Oswestry Market by winning the silverware on offer in the Christmas Fatstock Show and Sale at Shrewsbury Auction Centre with his pen of Dutch Texel lambs.

The 44kg lambs sold for £230 each to butchers Hough & Sons of Church Stretton. Mr Jones also took the runner-up prize with a pen of 37kg lambs purchased by judge Simon Jenner of

Jenner Livestock, on behalf of Pak Mecca Meats. Best single lamb sold for £210 to Berriew Butchers.

Endorsement The winning streak completed a family double at Shrewsbury – Mr Jones’ grandson Ralph Potter won the same cup last year. “It’s an honour to win the cup and it does mean a lot to me because it’s an endorsement of the quality of my lambs,” he said.

Nearly 1,100 fat lambs went under the hammer at the market with Halls reporting a fantastic atmosphere and trade throughout the pens. Lamb salss averaged 266p/kg.

Conference tickets now on sale

T Judge Simon Jenner (right) presents the Christmas Fatstock Cup to Martin Jones watched by Halls chairman Allen Gittins.

ickets are now on sale for next month’s Lincolnshire Farming Conference. The one-day event takes place on Thursday, 8 February, at the county showground. This year’s theme is Future Farming Opportunities: Biodiversity & Carbon. Conference speakers will highlight ways farmers and landowners can generate revenue from emerging nature markets.

For details, visit lincolnshireshowground.co.uk

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Arable

INCLUDING SPRING CROP MANAGEMENT SPECIAL

Wet autumn paves way for surge in spring crops Sodden fields still undrilled this winter

A

big increase in spring cropping is on the cards with wet weather and sodden fields leaving many growers unable to get drilled up last autumn.

Growers who haven’t already done so are being advised to make spring cropping decisions and secure seed sooner rather than later – or face the possibility of a late rush, suggests farm business consultant Will Foyle of agronomists Hutchinsons.

“For those already turning attention to spring cropping, cereal margins remain positive providing you can obtain seed – and meet specification in what will likely be an abundant market post-harvest.”

Rotational balance Broadacre break crops are looking less favourable and will be better assessed in the spring on a case-by-case scenario, says Mr Foyle. A good 2023 maize harvest and potential oversupply of land for 2024 will put pressure on AD rents, he adds.

Mr Foyle emphasises the importance of keeping a rotational balance.

“Late drilled spring barley on marginal land only pushes the prospect of a first wheat further down the road and will have a negative effect on the longterm profitability.

“Much can change between now and the end of January, and this equally offers time to take stock, review and make decisions in the New Year.”

While autumn seedbeds and winter wheat establishment were less favourable on many farms, profit potential remains on lower yields if fixed and variable costs are managed appropriately.

“Taking heed of this, many will be looking to push later drilled wheat varieties such as Skyfall well in to the new year,”says Mr Foyle.

“At current commodity prices a 7t/ ha milling wheat will compete with a malting barley of similar yields.”

8 MIDLAND FARMER • JANUARY 2024

“

There still remains potential for profit

The autumn washout has ruined crops, with other fields undrilled

Ben Frost, of agronomy company Frontier, says re-drilling failed crops in during the winter months may be possible on some land types – but there are important considerations you should make around seed rates and variety choice.

Seed rates When calculating seed rates, remember that establishment percentages could be as low as 50% in very poor conditions, says Mr Frost.

When drilling wheat, for example, rates should be increased to over 400 seeds/m² from November onwards.

Rolling a crop after drilling is unlikely to succeed during winter. But rolling in the spring is much more likely given favourable conditions.

Rolling should be done before Growth Stage 30 to aid root-to-soil contact and encourage further tillering without damaging the crop.

Of course, speed of growth doesn’t necessarily determine overall final yield. But it is something to be considered when planning first nitrogen applications.

Some varieties, like KWS Dawsum, have slow spring development but high yield potential when drilled late.

'Dramatic contrast' in UK weather – Met Office Wet weather saw parts of England receive more than 150% of their longterm average rainfall last autumn, says the Met Office.

As a whole, the UK recorded a seasonal rainfall total of 409.8mm, 122% of the 1991-2020 long term average.

Nottinghamshire was particularly wet and south-east England saw its ninth wettest autumn since records stretching back to1836.

The three months of the autumn saw dramatic contrasts in the weather.

Early September brought a notable heatwave, with 30°C reached on seven consecutive days.

It was the UK’s equal-warmest September on record, with 2006.

Four named storms affected the UK between late September and midNovember: Agnes, Babet, Ciarán and Debi. It was the sixth wettest October on record but November was fairly unremarkable, with temperatures and sunshine close to average.

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JANUARY 2024 • ANGLIA FARMER 9

Arable • Spring crop management

Why oats are increasingly popular spring option

M

ore farmers are expected to grow spring oats as they seek to loosen up rotations and limit the build-up of disease.

Oats for human consumption will continue to be grown predominantly in Scotland, say seed breeders. But growers much further south are realising the potential of the crop too – especially when it comes to early maturing varieties such as Merlin.

Early maturing varieties perform well in wetter climates, where early ripening is vital. Merlin also boasts high disease resistance and strong

yield potential – as well as being a clean variety with good standing ability and low screenings.

Crop conversion Ewan Mackenzie, from W&A Geddes, works with farmers in Caithness in the north of Scotland. He has switched more than two-thirds of the oat cultivation area in the region to Merlin spring oats, and hopes to convert the entire crop to Merlin in the coming years.

“We had 10 farmers growing around 809ha of Merlin in 2023, and we saw the best yields that I can remember,” says Mr Mackenzie, who supplies most of the oats grown in the region to Hamlyns of Scotland, a subsidiary of Morning Foods.”

The quality was excellent, with bushel weights at a minimum of 56kg/ hl and a maximum of 61.8kg/hl. Yields averaged over 7t/hectare dried. The crop had good disease resistance, the sample was bold and it had and fewer screenings than other varieties.

“What we look for in the north of Scotland is good standing and an early harvest and Merlin has these attributes. Going forward it looks to be the variety we will be using.”

Alternative option Further south in Berkshire, arable farmer Ed Ryder, took his first Merlin harvest in 2023. “We wanted an alternative spring cropping option to wheat and Merlin yielded at 5-6t/ha on a seed contract to Cope Seeds and Grain,” he says.

“Some went for milling and the rest for seed, and although the yields suffered with the wet weather, the low inputs meant there was a good margin there.”

Millers are showing more interest in oats, says Gemma Clarke, of Cope Seeds Left: Merlin is a popular variety for human consumption

“

Low inputs meant a good margin

Hampshire arable farmer Richard Monk, has been growing Merlin for four years.

“The 2023 harvest was our fourth year of growing Merlin and we grew 70ha in total. It has done well despite a difficult spring growing season. Quality was good, and yields ranged from 6.8 to 8.3 t/ha.

Quality counts Suited to all UK regions, Merlin produces high quality oats when grown either organically or conventionally.

It offers a competitive lodging score of 7 and a high rating of 8 for mildew.

Millers value its low screenings and specific weight above Delfin, Aspen, and Conway.

“It’s this mix of low screenings, good specific weight and kernel content that is generating interest from the millers,” says seed supplier Gemma Clarke, of Lincolnshire-based seed supplier Cope Seeds and Grain.

'Good for yield and good for quality' Oat variety Merlin is proving popular with growers and millers for its consistent performance.

Introduced to the Recommended List in 2021, it is high yielding and boasts good quality, with early maturity and strong disease resistance. This combination makes it a versatile all-rounder – whether grown conventionally or organically.

With low screening losses and outstanding disease resistance, including an 8 for mildew, Merlin is early to mature. Presenting well in the field, it performs as well as the other market leading varieties – all which has earned a good reputation.

10 MIDLAND FARMER • JANUARY 2024

Early ripening and an ability to produce good yields and specification make Merlin suitable for many UK regions. This has fuelled its popularity.

Growers looking for a consistent easy-tomanage variety say it is robust and performs favourably during unpredictable seasons too.

“Merlin establishes well and has strong disease resistance,” says grower Richard Monk, who harvested his first crop in 2020.

“Despite the catchy weather at the time, it was standing well and combined easily. The yield was 69t from 9.3ha in a tough year.

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Arable • Spring crop management

Entries open for Soil Farmer of the Year

T

he annual competition to find the UK’s Soil Farmer of the Year is open for entries.

Run by the Farm Carbon Toolkit and Innovation for Agriculture, the accolade champions farmers who lead the way in improving soil health and increasing the resilience of their farm business.

The competition has been running since 2015. It now supports a network of farmers and growers passionate about their soil and the innovations that safeguarding it can bring to their business.

Farm Carbon Toolkit advisor Emma Adams said “If the impact on soil is at the heart of your decision making, with implemented practices driving improving soil health as part of a fully functioning farm ecosystem, this is the competition for you.”

How to enter Online application forms are available via the Farm Carbon Toolkit website. Applications will remain open until 5 March. The eventual winners will be announced at this year’s Groundswell event in June.

Farm walks are a key part of the competition because they give others the opportunity to see how each winner has approached soil management, says Deborah Crossan, head of soils and natural resources at Innovation for Agriculture.

“Nothing beats digging a hole and looking at the soil in the field while hearing directly from the farmer how that field has been managed and seeing the impact it’s had on the soil structure over time,” says Ms Crossan.

“This competition champions farmers who understand the importance of soil and are using management practices to protect and improve it. Crucially, it also enables others to learn from what they’re doing via the farm walks,” she adds.

This year’s competition is once more kindly sponsored by Cotswold Seeds and Hutchinsons, with the top three farmers receiving a voucher for seeds provided by Cotswold Seeds.

Farm walks are key to the competition, says Emma Adams.

For full details, including how to enter, please visit farmcarbontoolkit.org.uk

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Arable • Spring crop management

Barley growers to reduce emissions

M

alting barley growers are being encouraged to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions – helping to future-proof their businesses and lower their environmental impact.

It follows a collaboration between Simpsons Malt and BASF. The companies are working with grower groups this winter and spring to record how they can reduce scope 3 emissions in the distilling supply chain.

Simpsons Malt is one of the largest, independent, family-owned malting companies in the world.

It can produce around 300,000 tonnes of malt annually and supply it to distillers and brewers across the globe.

The company has two maltings in the UK – in Norfolk and Northumberland. Located in prime English barley growing territory, the Tivetshall St Margaret maltings has been producing malt since 1872.

The agreement with BASF will support Simpsons Malt, a fifth-generation business to deliver on its commitment to achieve carbon neutral malting barley and distilling wheat production by 2030.

Growers will benefit from the partnership, say Simpsons Malt and BASF

Ambitious targets Simpsons sustainabiltiy manager Ben Gothorp said: “The distilling sector has ambitious climate targets and, given the strength of their brands and the storytelling that underpins them, a more sustainable, decarbonised supply chain is important to achieve.”

BASF’s role in the partnership is to record all on-farm crop management practices via its Carbon Farming Platform. This will help determine the impact different on-farm decisions would have on the carbon position of the final, harvested crop.

BASF will validate Simpsons Malt’s work by monitoring and reporting whether it has achieved its target reduction of scope 3 greenhouse gas emissions as part of its Gold Standard Value Change Programme.

Mr Gothorp says benefits will be gained by the whole supply chain. “It’s all about helping farmers to build resilience in their business, more sustainable practices and to ensure that we can give full transparency to our customers.”

Provenance Whether a distillery takes malt supplied by five farmers or 150 farmers, Mr Gothorp says the combined total of greenhouse gas emissions and reduction – as well as the grain’s provenance – is fundamental to the integrity of the final product.

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As well as recording on-farm practices, the partnership will provide Simpsons Malt’s growers with practical guidance on how their choices – including cultivation methods and fertiliser programmes – can change a farm’s carbon footprint.”

Challenges BASF Agricultural Solutions business director Joel Johnson says: “This partnership will demonstrate how beginning with growers, all partners are in dealing with the challenges of producing food and drink sustainably.”

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JANUARY 2024 • MIDLAND FARMER 15

Arable • Spring crop management

Unpredictable weather changes emphasis for maize this spring • Drill according to soil conditions not date • Use slurry and farmyard manure wisely • Seedbed preparation remains essential

D

rilling maize by soil temperature rather than calendar date is increasingly important in light of increasingly variable weather conditions during spring.

With potential yield loss from uneven emergence as high as 40% and poor seedbed conditions at drilling being a further challenge, growers need to take extra care with establishment, explains Neil Groom of forage maize specialists Grainseed.

“Drilling at the right time means more seeds are stimulated to germinate simultaneously,” he says.

“While this is usually from late April to mid May, of far greater importance is the availability of moisture and warmth in the seedbed.”

Soil temperatures must reach 1012ºC taken at 9am for at least four days across the entire field due to be drilled, says Mr Groom.

Only once this threshold has been met is it safe to make a start.

“While soil temperatures remain low, producers should use the time to work the soil properly and ensure they are making as much use farm-yard manure and slurry as possible.”

Slurry and manure can be applied right up until drilling – but it is best to incorporate them in the top 10cms of the soil using heavy discs or a tined cultivator rather than deep ploughing, suggests Mr Groom.

“That way the roots can easily access the available nutrients as they start to grow. Manures should also always be incorporated into the soil within 24 hours of application to minimise losses.”

Test soils and manures Knowing what nutrients your organic manure contains is essential in building an accurate fertiliser plan and ensuring they are all used to full advantage and in an environmentally responsible way.

“A good way to do it at this time of year is to collect samples directly from 16 MIDLAND FARMER • JANUARY 2024

the spreader by putting some trays out under it, so you’re actually testing the material you are putting on the land,” says Mr Groom.

Soils should be tested too – with a particular focus on acidity, as well as nitrogen, phosphate and potassium content. Available soil nutrients should be factored into any application programme.

“With good nutrition and warm soils crops will grow away quickly but if the weather or ground conditions force later drilling, then moving maturity group up a notch to an earlier maturing variety than normally considered might be worthwhile.

“There’s very little yield penalty these days if you choose wisely and the reduced number of heat units required to finish properly will ensure you maintain feed quality and energy content at harvest.

“A group 10 variety like will produce a yield similar to a group 8 on most soil types and give a greater degree of resilience especially in a reduced growing window.”

“

Timely drilling stimulates more seed

Below left: Knowing organic manure nutrient content is important, says Neil Groom Below right: Check soil moisture before drilling, says agronomist Jon Myhill

MGA agronomist Jon Myhill says good seed-to-soil contact is essential but seedbed requirements change depending on when the maize is sown, the soil type it is drilled into and the weather at the time of drilling.

“Many growers actually create a finer seedbed than is really needed. A rough seedbed may be best early on, say from mid-April, in a colder season as looser, rougher soil will warm up more quickly when temperatures do start to rise.”

Moisture retention Later in the season, however, when temperatures have increased a bit, a finer tilth will enable better moisture retention and absorption of heat units for speedier germination, adds Mr Myhill.

“Before drilling, it’s a good idea to check where the moisture is in the soil. Drilling into some moist areas and some dry ones will lead to staggered germination and uneven crops at harvest time.”

Growing under film helps create more heat units for the plants and is still a good option for growers in colder and more exposed areas. It is also good for growers wanting an early harvest to fit in with rotations.

Film provides a microclimate that encourages successful germination,” says Mr Myhill. “Starch-based films with no plastic content have now been developed so the previous concerns of introducing additional plastic to the farm can be avoided.”

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www.lantra.co.uk/careers JANUARY 2024 • MIDLAND FARMER 17

Arable • Spring crop management

Protected urea fertiliser is 'game-changer' for farmers

M

ore fertiliser manufacturers are launching urea products to meet forthcoming restrictions on ammonia emissions.

The so-called Option 4 rules mean growers spreading urea fertilisers beyond 1 April 2024 must apply products coated with urease inhibitors to reduce ammonia emissions.

Developed by BASF, new product Starbur has a patented coating to reduce ammonia losses by 98%. Other companies have launched products too. The include Origin Enhanced Nitrogen (OWN) from Origin Fertilisers; and YaraVera AmiPlus from Yara.

‘Premium solution’ “Starbur is more than just a urea product; it’s a game-changer for UK farmers,” said Will Ingham, supply chain manager at granular fertiliser specialists Glasson Fertilisers, which supplies Stabur in the UK. “We’re providing a premium solution that not only meets legislative

18 MIDLAND FARMER • JANUARY 2024

requirements but also enhances crop quality and yields and helps UK farmers protect the environment. No other protected urea product performs like Starbur,” added Mr Ingham.

“The unique, patented coating provides the highest reduction in ammonia emissions available on the market, with its two active ingredients lowering ammonia emissions by up to 98%, ensuring better nitrogen availability from urea for crops to optimise both yield and quality.”

Trials suggest a 4.6% yield uplift in wheat crops treated with Stabur compared to untreated urea. The product was launched at last autumn’s Croptec event, held at the National Agricultural Exhibition Centre, Warwickshire.

Meanwhile, Origin Fertilisers will discuss ways to navigate the new rules at this month’s LAMMA event.

Mandy McAulay, marketing manager at Origin Fertilisers, says it is essential to understthe rules and requirements before buying urea.

Restrictions to reduce ammonia emissions come into effect from April

“Although the change may be seen by some as further red tape, growers should be looking at it as a chance to explore different fertiliser options. Applying a protected urea treated with a urease inhibitor can increase fertiliser efficiency, spread accurately to 32m, and offer comparable returns.”

Granular nutrition offer growers multiple benefits

S

witching fertiliser types to ensure soil micronutrient requirements are met this spring could offer growers multiple benefits, say suppliers.

Maximising inputs is understandably a high priority for growers. But prescription nutrition – optimising productivity by ensuring fertiliser usage is as efficient as possible – has become increasingly important.

“Making every pound go further than it did in previous seasons is key, and part of this will be down to supplying the crop with the right blend of nutrients to maximise yield and quality,” says Toby Ward, nutrition agronomist at Origin Fertilisers.

Some prescription options that were familiar to growers may not be available, which could force users to explore alternatives. Granular prescription nutrition applications are tailored to match soil requirements based on test data, says Mr Ward.

Local knowledge Micronutrients play an important role in any nutrition strategy. Services like Origin’s Nutri-Match tailor fertiliser products to soil and crop requirements. Crops receive exactly what is required – and investment in fertiliser is maximised.

Getting the most from this service requires in-depth analysis of soils and tailored advice to meet crop needs. “We need to create prescriptive grades that target deficiencies in the soil or maintain existing nutrients at plant available levels,” says Mr Ward.

“We should be making farmers question if the fertiliser they have

used in the past is the right one, and this can only happen with local knowledge and time spent on farm.”

Crop quality and yield will always be limited by the most deficient nutrient in the soil – and crops will soon show obvious signs of nutrient shortage, adds Mr Ward.

Using qualified advice can highlight where the addition of secondary nutrients, and increasing levels of micronutrients, will have a direct influence on raising the availability of others in the nutrient profile.

Changing strategies One grower who has changed his nutrition strategy is Jack Olding, who manages Suffolk-based Sovereign Turf. He now controls the whole process once

Getting the best value from fertiliser is key to optimising crop performance Below: Making every pound go further is vital, says Toby Ward

the fertiliser is delivered to the farm – and applies it according to conditions and the crop.

The change from suspension liquid to granular base fertiliser for turf crops has maintained access to a wide variety of prescription nutrition, says Mr Olding. This has brought extra benefits for his business, he adds.

Liquid fertiliser is still used for top dressings. But Mr Olding has adopted a granular base fertiliser to include micronutrients in each bag and add slower release major nutrients. This allows the fertiliser to be available to the crop for longer.

“The change has allowed me to improve the timings of fertiliser application, offering the flexibility to place the nutrition where the crops need it, without any delays to establishment.”

Flexible applications Mr Olding started using the granular base fertiliser because it offered more flexibility during application. The capacity to tailor fertiliser better suits the needs of his crops and the soil has seen no negative effects, he says.

Origin can produce blends to suit Mr Olding’s requirements.

This means a better base fertiliser is applied in a single pass. Mr Olding now specifies a variety of micronutrients in one bag. The granular product has been as flexible as the liquid suspension fertiliser he used before – but with no deterioration in quality.

Another key fact is that local knowledge at Origin has helped tailor nutrition requirements to Mr Olding’s business. It is key to working with suppliers to find solutions on an individual basis, he says.

“We can prescribe fertiliser on a field-by-field system if required and being able to work closely with nutritionists makes this process easier and quicker to find solutions to any issues we have.”

JANUARY 2024 • MIDLAND FARMER 19

Arable • Spring crop management

Expert advice for testing and treating home-saved seed • Seed-borne diseases are challenge • Consider nutritional seed treatment • Compensate for any abnormalities

G

rowers are being urged to check farm-saved spring barley seed for diseases such as loose smut and seed-borne net blotch.

With winter cereal drilling only around 70-75% complete before autumn storms put a stop to further drilling for many growers across the UK, a larger-than-expected spring crop is now being forecast.

Most certified spring cereal seed has already been sold. Some varieties are now virtually impossible to source for farmers who haven’t already done so, say traders.

That leaves farm-saved seed as almost the only option for growers still needing to source spring crops to drill fields that were intended for winter crops – unless a weather window opens for a very late-sown winter crop.

Treatment “We’re expecting farm-saved spring seed use to be up massively on farm, especially spring barley,” says Agrii farm saved seed business manager Mark Taylor. “Treatment demand could be up by 30-40% on a typical spring cereal season,” he adds.

Those intending to drill grain from their own store are strongly advised to get a full germination test and indicate to the lab where glyphosate may have been applied as a desiccant. While the latter is far-from-ideal, seed rates can be increased to compensation for any abnormal seedlings.

Where decisions on a base single purpose seed dressing for either allocated spring barley certified or farmsaved seed, Agrii seed technical manager David Leaper suggests that two diseases drive the choice: loose smut and seed-borne net blotch.

“Over the past five to six years there is evidence to suggest a loss of prothioconazole sensitivity to loose smut,” he says.

That, coupled with the loss of approval for some actives used for seed treatments, has led to Agrii to transition away from prothioconazole-based 20 MIDLAND FARMER • JANUARY 2024

seed treatments to Rancona i-Mix (ipconazole + imazalil).

“There’s clear evidence to show that the level of loose smut activity you get from ipconazole is better than prothioconazole – that puts Rancona i-Mix as the top technical treatment for control of loose smut, which is the key priority disease in spring barley.”

The other key disease is seedborne net blotch, says Mr Leaper.

“You can get degrees of varietal resistance to net blotch from resistant or moderately resistant to susceptible, and while crops can pick up net blotch from green bridges and transfer from stubbles, we know the seedborne route is quite important.

“Our trials at Agrii Focus have shown that the ipconazole / imazalil combination has the best control of seed-borne net blotch, so those two diseases are the reason for choosing Rancona i-Mix.” Leaf stripe will also be controlled by Rancona i-Mix – but it is rarely picked up in seed tests, while Fusarium and Microdochium nivale tend to be less of a problem in a spring crop drilled into warming soils.

Where growers are considering not treating with single purpose seed treatment, Mr Leaper recommends a seed test is used to check for disease.

Around 14% of farm-saved spring barley seed didn’t receive a fungicidal seed treatment last spring.

Home-saved seed could be a good option this spring

“

Treatment demand could be up 30-40%

Below: Rancona i-Mix treatment is stlll available, says Jo Hawke

Treatment choice Those crops will be most at risk from seed-borne diseases. “You can go from trace levels or no apparent disease, with something like loose smut, to significant crop effects within three seasons, if you’re using non-treated seed without testing.”

Previous crop seed treatment choice could also be a factor to consider, even if you’re home saving last year’s boughtin certified seed, adds Mr Leaper.

“If your certified seed was supplied with Beret Gold (fludioxonil), which is a good treatment for seedling blights but has very little activity against loose smut, you probably want to get it tested, if you’re considering not treating.”

Nutritional seed treatments should also be considered. Research by Agrii and Lancrop Services identified through analysis of crop samples at different growth stages that spring barley clearly required adequate manganese, zinc and copper during early stages of growth.

“These can be applied as a seed treatment as well as in a starter fertiliser, and help fill that hunger gap the crop goes through before it gets its roots down to exploit the rhizosphere,” says Mr Leaper.

While Rancona i-Mix has lost its EU approval, the seed treatment is still fully approved and available across mainland Great Britain, says Jo Hawke, trials manager for agrochemical company UPL.

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Arable • Spring crop management

Miscanthus offers profitable crop for flood-prone land

F

armers looking for a profitable crop on flood-prone soils could do worse than considering miscanthus, say researchers.

The energy crop thrives where other crops would be unprofitable or high risk – and it stabilises soil too, suggests a study undertaken by the Institute of Biological Environmental and Rural Sciences (IBERS) at Aberystwyth University.

“There is no significant difference in yield and other physiological development,” said Jason Kam, who led the study.

“Observed height and tiller numbers have no differences between winter flooded and nonflooded ground.”

More resilient Miscanthus is a perennial crop which doesn’t have to be planted annually – helping farmers save time and money in terms of input costs. The risk can be further reduced by growing it on contract for Terravesta.

“This reduces soil disturbance to a minimum,” says Dr Kam. “The structure of the miscanthus rhizome and root helps to stabilise soils, making it more resilient against flood-caused soil erosion.”

East Yorkshire arable farmer Rob Meadley, who supplies miscanthus specialist Terravesta, grows 12ha of the crop on flood-prone land that previously wasn’t delivering a viable return with cereals.

Mr Meadley planted miscanthus in March 2012 in good conditions. A record-breaking wet April followed, meaning the crop was in standing water. Bad weather hit again in June – with the 2014 harvest affected by the legacy of flooding and poor weed control.

“Arable crops would never have survived the conditions that the miscanthus was exposed to, and we didn’t lose any money on

inputs. The annual yield quickly recovered, and in 2017 and 2020, we had bumper harvests of over 13t/ha.”.

Blackgrass control The crop has also helped to naturally control blackgrass in that area, says Mr Meadley, who says there was no other option for a crop on the same land that would be as profitable.

“It wasn’t performing as well as other parts of the farm and Miscanthus was 100% the right decision for it. The only other option would have been environmental grass, but miscanthus beats this hands down from a net margin point of view.”

Terravesta chairman William Cracroft-Eley planted miscanthus on flood-prone fields in 2015, having previously grown the crop elsewhere on the farm. It missed the first harvest due to flooding but yielded a bumper crop the year after.

How it adds up “It was a win-win situation because no damage was done to the land, no money was spent on con-

Miscanthus is resilient against flood-caused soil erosion.

Miscanthus thrives where other crops fail, says William CracroftEley.

tractors, it wasn’t a loss, because we harvested the crop the following year with the new growth and we hadn’t spent any money on fertiliser.”

Like any crop, miscanthus does better on more favourable land. But it also thrives where other crops fail.

“This could be for numerous reasons, and in this case it’s an ideal solution to water logged land which would otherwise be unprofitable.”

Miscanthus is now more affordable and profitable, thanks to new Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) payments. Because it is classified as a non-horticultural permanent crop, up to £2645 per year can be claimed on 10ha of miscanthus.

The payment means the return-on-investment break-even point is two years earlier and the average net return for a 10-hectare crop is £930/ha – a return linked to the retail price index for consistent returns.

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Arable • Spring crop management if contracts are offered, then they are worth considering. But dual use varieties offer growers flexibility to grow for more than one market, whether that’s distilling, brewing, or feed market sectors.

3 VIGOUR AND TILLERING CAPACITY

5

options when choosing spring barley

W

et autumn weather means more growers are likely to include spring barley in their cropping plans this season.

A good range of varieties means there are lots to choose from – offering attractive yields, lower growing costs than those typically associated with winter-sown crops, and premium potential where malting quality can be achieved.

Whether the decision to grow spring barley is planned or unplanned, Limagrain UK arable technical manager Ron Granger says there are key things to consider when selecting varieties to grow next spring.

1 MARKET REQUIREMENTS Start by fully understanding your grain buyer’s requirements in terms of variety and grain quality, especially when looking to supply premium brewing or distilling markets, says Mr Granger.

In some instances, contract specifications will dictate the variety that must be grown to supply a particular market. Criteria such as grain nitrogen content will have an important impact on agronomic decisions and crop inputs throughout the season.

This is particularly true for those dependent on hitting a certain grain nitrogen percentage to achieve the contract premium – notably distilling, which requires 1.65% N or lower, brewing 1.65-1.85% and grain distilling at 1.85%+.

But grain nitrogen is not a concern for animal feed, says Mr Granger.

24 MIDLAND FARMER • JANUARY 2024

2 DUEL USE POTENTIAL

Facing page: Growers should choose varieties carefully Below: Ron Granger

Where variety choice is not dictated by the end user, growers have flexibility to select one that suits their requirements, growing conditions and farm situation.

There are 13 malting and four feed varieties on the 2023/24 AHDB Recommended List – a good selection. A dual use variety, such as LG Diablo, combines decent yield performance with multiple end market opportunities, offering an advantage over some other varieties.

Newer recommended varieties certainly offer higher yield potential, and

Newer varieties, such as LG Diablo, offer excellent spring vigour and high tillering capacity, which is a valuable trait in spring barley given the relatively short growing period.

The best way to maximise spring barley yield potential is to ensure high final ear counts. The AHDB Barley growth guide suggests the final target ear population should be around 775 ears/m², but even higher final ear counts may be needed to drive yield.

An 8-9 t/ha crop needs around 800 ears/m², which at 350 seeds/m² equates to around 2.5-3 tillers per plant at harvest.

But optimal tiller and ear counts may not be achieved in some situations, so crops can fall short of achieving their full yield potential.

Choosing a more vigorous tillering variety will help, as it will give some reassurance that the optimum tiller count will be reached.

While variety choice, seed rate and drilling date all influence tillering and final ear count, the biggest issue is often the weather. Drought will cause tiller loss, so growers must ensure numbers are high enough at the outset by driving establishment and early rooting with front-loaded nutrition.

“

Strong disease resistance is important

Where spring barley is being used in a blackgrass situation, it is important that a vigorous, high tillering variety is selected, as a high tiller number must be ensured for the variety to compete. Later sowings will require increased seed rates to ensure a good canopy is achieved, as tillering ability will be limited due to the shorter growing period.

Spring barley is a fast-growing crop and if key nutrients are deficient at any time, yield potential will be affected, says Mr Granger.

It has been shown in Limagrain trials, that higher yielding varieties respond positively to higher nitrogen inputs, due to their increased yield potential and, more importantly, a dilution of grain nitrogen content.

Phosphate, potash, magnesium

and sulphur, have proven beneficial to tiller retention and final yield, while additional micronutrients, including manganese, zinc, copper, iron, and boron, applied at the stem extension phase into flowering, are also useful, adds Mr Granger.

4 DISEASE RESISTANCE Strong disease resistance is an important characteristic to look for in any variety, and spring barley is no exception, with mildew, rhynchosporium, and brown rust being the main considerations.

Early drilling can significantly increase disease risk, so it may be particularly important to consider more disease resistant varieties for this situation.

Spring barley doesn’t have a main yield-building flag leaf, so all leaves, including leaves two and three, must be kept clean and green as long as possible.

A Limagrain UK survey of more than 100 growers last year, found that most (70%) usually apply two fungicides, which is the preferred approach in “normal” seasons, with the first at

growth stage 31/32, and the second at GS 37/39.

Some may look to make savings in low disease pressure years, potentially putting more reliance on genetic resistance. But Mr Granger cautions that any savings should come from adjusting product selection and rate, rather than omitting sprays.

If you’re only spraying once, it’s difficult to judge the best time to apply it, and you’re second-guessing the weather. The key is to remain flexible and react to the season.

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Recommended Lists Best varieties are highlighted on easier-to-navigate lists • New wheat, barley and oilseed varieties • Traits include built-in disease resistance • At-a-glance tables highlight comparisons

F

ewer new cereal and oilseed varieties appear on the latest Recommended List – but a number of improvements make it easer to decide which are most suitable for differentsituations and markets.

The 2024/25 list is shorter for most major crops. But it features several eye-catching additions, including the first BYDV-tolerant six-row hybrid winter barley, the first new provisional UKFM Group 1 winter wheat since 2017 and a barn-filling Group 3 winter wheat.”

The Recommended List app includes a new feature to allow a sideby-side comparison of varieties. Updated 2024/25 data will appear on the app this month.

Other updates include an archive tool to help farmers and agronomists identify the year when varieties were first and last listed.

Improvements There are also improvements to the tables – and information on verticillium stem stripe resistance in oilseed rape for the first time, says list manager Paul Gosling, of the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board.

“The Recommended List review has resulted in numerous changes to the lists. Leaner lists will be welcomed by many. But quality remains high, with several exciting new additions.”

A paper-based booklet, due out in January, will feature major changes to the table designs and extensive information about the crop trials involved. This will walk growers through the recommendation process.

Two calls for scoping reviews have been issued to examine evidence of varietal responses under lower-input scenarios for nitrogen and fungicide applications. Some other review recommendations will take longer or not be practical or affordable.

Mr Gosling explains: “We are also looking at ways to maximise the value of Recommended List data already collected to provide new varietal insights.

Whatever the next steps, we will keep users of the list informed about major developments.”

Anniversary This year is the 80-year anniversary of the first recommended list and the list continues to evolve to meet the changing needs of farmers. In response to grower feedback, the online tables have been made easier to navigate.

“

Group 3 winter wheat Bamford has good disease resistance, quality and yields

There are several exciting additions

Growers invited to join crop committee Growers, grain traders and plant pathologists are being invited to join the influential crop committees which steer the direction of the Recommended Lists.

The invitation comes as findings are implemented from the latest review of the variety trialling project which helps determine which seeds arppear on the recommended list.

The AHDB says this makes it a fantastic time to be a crop committee member.

Five vacancies need to be filled this winter.

They include one grower and two grain traders for the barley and oats and other cereals crop committee; and one grower and one independent pathologist for the Oilseeds Crop Committee vacancies.

RL leader Paul Gosling said: “Each winter, we look for passionate people to join our crop committees to be at the heart of the recommendation of cereal and oilseed varieties

for the UK. This year is the 80-year anniversary of the first recommended list.”

He added: “Crop committee members will respond to the findings from the latest list review to ensure the project continues its evolution and delivers appropriate variety options in an impartial, timely and cost-effective way.”

To apply, email Paul Gosling at paul.gosling@ ahdb.org.uk. The application deadline is 19 January 2024.

JANUARY 2024 • MIDLAND FARMER 27

Livestock

FEATURING LAMBING 2024

Keep watch for bluetongue virus during winter months • Restrictions imposed on livestock movements • Infected animals culled to curb disease spread • Farmers warned about importing animals

L

ivestock producers are urged to remain vigilant following the discovery of bluetongue in cattle on a Norfolk farm last month.

A 10km temporary control zone was declared around the premises near Cantley, Broadland. Two infected animals were culled and livestock movement restrictions imposed to minimise the risk of onward transmission.

The discovery came after government vets conducting their annual bluetongue surveillance programme last November identified a case of the disease in Kent. The Norfolk case is the first in East Anglia.

Notifiable disease Bluetongue virus is a notifiable disease which must be reported to the Animal and Plant Health Agency by law.

Temporary control zones are in place around all affected farms, restricting the movement of susceptible animals except under licence.

Chief veterinary officer Christine Middlemiss said: “Bluetongue does not pose a threat to human health or food safety, but the disease can impact livestock farms, and cause productivity issues.”

The virus is transmitted by midge bites and affects cows, goats, sheep and other camelids such as llamas.

Midges are most active between April and November and not all susceptible animals show immediate signs of contracting the virus.

The impacts on susceptible animals vary greatly. Some show no symptoms at all but others can suffer productivity issues such as reduced milk yield.

The most severe cases can be fatal for infected animals.

also a clear reminder for farmers that the disease remains a threat, despite coming towards the end of the midge activity season.”

At the moment, Defra officials say there is no evidence the virus is circulating in the UK. But the disease has devastated farms in the Netherlands and strict rules govern livestock movements from affected regions.

Vets in the Netherlands have reported severe illness in sheep, with high fever and lesions around the coronary band, udder, face and mouth.

Hundreds of farm businesses have seen animals culled.

UK farmers are reminded that animals imported from these regions must be accompanied by the relevant paperwork to clearly show they meet certain conditions designed to reduce disease risk, such as vaccination.

To report a suspected case of bluetongue, call 03000 200 301

What to look for Symptoms of bluetongue vary. The main signs in sheep include mouth ulcers, drooling, lameness and the swelling of the head and neck. But infected cattle and goats often show little or no signs of the virus.

With potential for rapid spread, the virus is transported by the wind dispersal of infected biting midges and through the import of affected animals, their germplasm – sperm and eggs – and foetuses.

Despite the onset of winter, livestock producers should remain vigilant for the disease in flocks and herds, says Sheep Veterinary Society president Joseph Henry, who chairs the Ruminant Health and Welfare bluetongue working group.

Reducing risk “There continues to be no evidence of circulating virus in the UK midge population,” he says. “With the overall temperature continuing to drop, the risk of midge disease transmission is ever reducing.”

Legislation remains in place around any movement of animals into and out of control zones, adds Dr Henry. “It is still crucial for farmers to beware when buying animals in, take action to report any signs, and always, remain vigilant.”

When applying for a movement licence, farmers are urged to be as prepared as possible by planning and applying ahead of time to minimise any disruption or delay.

Farmers and vets can view the latest licences available and how to apply at ruminanthw.org.uk.

The disease can cause productivity issues on livestock farms

Clear reminder Ms Middlemiss said: “This detection is an example of our robust disease surveillance procedures in action and it is JANUARY 2024 • MIDLAND FARMER 29

Livestock • Lambing 2024

How to get lambing lighting is important too because it makes it so much easier to check stock without disturbing them too much.

Avoid overcrowding otherwise stress and disease issues can spiral out of control: a typical 70kg ewe needs 1.2m 2 to 1.4m 2 of floor space and 45cm of trough space.

CHCK YOUR FLOCK HEALTH PLAN

EXPERT VIEW Preparation is key for lambing success this season, says Phil Brookes of Volac

P

lanning for the new lambing season should begin early – even if you normally lamb your flock in late spring. But whenever you start lambing, a practical seven-point plan will set your enterprise up nicely for the peak lambing period early in the New Year.

FOCUS ON PREGNANT EWE NUTRITION Ewes must be in the best condition possible for the last six weeks of pregnancy when 70% of foetal growth takes place.

Get it wrong and you may have to cope with poor lamb survival rates, low birth weights and inferior quality ewe colostrum. Group and feed ewes according to your scanning results and their condition score.

Getting the mineral balance right is important too, so ask your nutritionist for advice. Consider asking your vet to take blood samples from ewes 4-6 weeks pre-lambing just to make sure their diet is delivering the required energy and protein status.

PREPARE YOUR SHEEP HOUSING If you lamb indoors, sheds should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected before ewes are brought inside – at least two weeks before lambing.

Use plenty of clean, dry bedding to reduce the risk of spreading lameness and other infections such as watery mouth, joint ill and coccidiosis. Good 30 MIDLAND FARMER • JANUARY 2024

Talk to your vet about the essential disease management interventions pre and post lambing.

Remember to boost your ewes’ clostridial disease and pasteurellosis cover 4-6 weeks pre-lambing. Make sure any lame sheep are separated and treated well before housing. Check the protocols for dealing with any abortion problems, scours or joint ill.

DECIDE ON STAFFING LEVELS Lambing is a time of year when an extra pair of hands can be invaluable.

Lambing students vary in their experience and knowledge, so be clear when advertising for staff exactly what sort

of level of skills and experience you are looking for.

Any new staff recruited need to know what is expected from them from the start – and should be given clear management protocols so that they know exactly what to do in any given situation (see Lambing List, below right, for advice).

CHECK LAMB MILK IS IN DATE AND FREE UP TIME A ewe milk replacer feeding systems will help you save labour and secure better lamb growth rates.

Feeding enough replacer alongside fresh water, roughage and small amounts of a good quality creep feed refreshed daily is the key to healthy, profitable growth.

A replacer such as Lamlac, that can be mixed cold, also frees up valuable time. For optimum growth rates, make sure you have ordered supplies early and have enough new in-date stock available to cover your needs.

Keeping good records is essential to benchmarking performance

off to the best start STOCK UP EARLY WITH EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES Lambing is always a hectic and stressful period – and once the season starts you won’t have the time to keeping dashing out for essential kit.

Order well in advance materials such as disinfectant for lambing pens, iodine for navels, castration rings, feeding tubes, marker sprays, sterilisation equipment, colostrum and milk replacer, as well as any other lambing essentials.

SET A TARGET FOR REDUCING LAMB LOSSES Keeping good records is essential to benchmarking performance and to help you identify any potential problem areas.

Record-keeping doesn’t have to be sophisticated or complicated – the important thing is to do it well.

If you don’t record already, lambing time is a great time to start. You should be aiming for less than 15% lamb losses, but top performing flocks are achieving closer to 10%.

Targets for lower lamb losses • Less than 5% from scanning to lambing • Less than 5% during the first week of life • Less than 2% from week one until weaning • Less than 2% lost after weaning [Source: Volac]

Seek veterinary advice when • Ewe losses are more than 3% • Lamb losses are more than 15% • More than 2% of your ewes are barren at scanning [Source: Volac]

Lambing list links students and farmers

T

he National Sheep Association lambing list is open for business once again – linking students looking for lambing work with sheep farmers seeking extra help at their busiest time of year.

The list has become an important source of labour for many UK sheep farmers – as well as a source of employment for agricultural and veterinary students looking for a work experience placement as part of their studies.

NSA list manager Katie James said: “Recent years have seen the numbers of both farmers and students using it increase substantially meaning it is now considered the go-to place for those requiring extra help or seeking vital work experience.

“It’s a very simple but effective process – we collate a list of NSA members looking for help at lambing

time and produce an advert so students can approach them directly to ask for a placement. The NSA is confident the list will again be successful in its mission to help all of those involved.”

The service is an additional benefit of NSA membership. Farmers wanting to advertise on the list must complete a short application form – including details of their lambing system and position they can offer, including accommodation, meals and other details.

For students looking for a placement, adverts are split into regions to highlight positions available in different areas of the UK and overseas.

The list can be found via the lambing and work experience pages on the NSA Next Generation website.

For details, www.nationalsheep.org.uk/ lambing-list

JANUARY 2024 • MIDLAND FARMER 31

Muck & Slurry Defra launches £74m grants package for better slurry management

F

armers looking to upgrade slurry management systems are invited to apply for a further £74m in grant funding, The second round of the Slurry Infrastructure Grant is the latest tranche of £200m being invested by Defra to tackle agricultural pollution from livestock waste as the government seeks to secure a more sustainable future for farming.

Livestock producers can apply for grants of £25,000 to £250,000 to invest in infrastructure and equipment that will tackle water pollution, improve air quality and make better use of organic nutrients.

The second round of funding is worth more than twice as much as the first round. Grants can be used to replace, expand, build extra and cover slurry stores – as well as purchasing equipment such as separators, reception pits and agitators

Storage capacity Following feedback from farmers, Defra has also increased the amount of storage capacity pig farms can apply for, offering grants towards a slurry separator and the option to retrofit covers onto existing stores.

The grant forms a component of the government’s Plan for Water, which aims to tackle water pollution. It also delivers on Environmental Improvement Plan commitments to halt biodiversity decline and support recovery of protected sites.

Farm minister Mark Spencer said: “Our Slurry Infrastructure Grant is

Better slurry storage can reduce the risk of pollution Below: Farm minister Mark Spencer says investment delivers benefits

“

We want to help farmers invest

helping farmers to invest in infrastructure which is often costly but can deliver big benefits for our waterways and air quality, while also cutting their input costs. ”We’re indebted to farmers who work day in day out to ensure we have great British food on our tables while protecting and shaping our countryside. It’s vital they are supported to make the environmental improvements I know so many want to make.”

Organic matter Defra says livestock manure is a vital tool to increase soil organic matter. It supports crop growth and helps improve farm productivity while reducing the need for artificial fertilisers.

But using slurry can be challenging

The grant in detail The Slurry Infrastructure Grant highlights the government’s expectation that farmers who want to receive public money should be required to deliver public benefits in return.

The slurry scheme has many more requirements and restrictions than the soon-to-be defunct Basic Payment Scheme, which paid farmers for doing little more than completing an annual claim form and abiding by some simple rules.

The slurry grant is competitive. There are limits on how the money can be spent. And if oversubscribed, the Rural Payments Agency will prioritise projects that have the greatest environmental outcomes based on their location.

It comes ahead of two further rounds of the Farm-

32 MIDLAND FARMER • JANUARY 2024

“Spreading slurry when there is no crop or soil requirement, often due to insufficient storage capacity, can cause significant pollution in rivers and waterways, as well as wasting a valuable resource and increasing costs for farmers.”

Open slurry stores and broadcast spreading also release large amounts of ammonia which harms vulnerable species and damages human health.

The funding aims to encourage more effective use of organic nutrients. It is part of the government’s commitment to tackle nutrient pollution from agriculture at source.

Defra says grants will continue to be prioritised in areas near protected sites with ammonia pressures in nutrient neutrality catchments.

ing Equipment and Technology Fund in early 2024 and 2025. These will offer £21m for smaller items of equipment to help farmers manage slurry, from nutrient testing kits to low emission spreaders.

The new funding builds on work already being undertaken by farmers in the government’s Countryside Stewardship scheme. This includes separating dirty water and effluent from rainwater through roofing over manure stores to prevent contamination. Farmers can also apply for complementary options under the Sustainable Farming Incentive, including support to produce a Nutrient Management Plan, establish multi-species winter cover and buffer strips.

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Muck & Slurry

How inoculants can improve slurry management Boosting nutrient content while reducing ammonia emissions

A

new inoculant can help farmers improve slurry management – reducing the need for bought-in fertilisers.

Researchers shortlisted almost 30 different strains of bugs and fungi to see whether they could reduce crust formation on slurry stores. To identify the best one, they then tested five of the most promising bacteria under laboratory-controlled conditions.

The best-performing micro-organisms worked most effectively by maximising complex biochemical pathways within slurry. Crust formation was reduced by 23-29% – enabling farmers to improve their onfarm waste management.

Conducted at Myerscough College, the research findings have helped redevelop two slurry innoculants: SlurryBugs and SlurryBugs Maintenance – fine-tuning the specialist bacteria and fungi to produce what is essentially an entirely new product.

Nutrient content Scientists also observed a 10-15% increase the nitrogen, phosphate, potassium and sulphur content of treated slurry. This is because organic materials are released into the slurry when the crust is broken down.

New studies are under way to examine this further. Commercial company EnviroSystems has already undertaken specialist trials at Myerscough’s dairy farm to ensure the study is completed with reliable and accurate outcomes.

EnviroSystems head of research David Townsend said: “Trialling slurry additives on full-scale farm systems presents difficulties due to the huge volumes of slurry involved and the inability to run controls or duplicates within a controlled setting.”

Dr Townsend added: “As a result, 34 MIDLAND FARMER • JANUARY 2024

we mimicked a slurry lagoon using 20-litre drums, which allowed us to increase our scrutiny over the experiments and the accuracy of the data we collected.”

Reliable results The control and treated drums were dosed with the relevant additives and maintained under closely monitored conditions for three months. Each treatment was repeated four times to ensure the results were reliable.

Reducing crust formation is becoming more critical as a government deadline approaches for farmers to cover slurry stores by 2027.

Store covers are already recommended by Defra’s guide to good agricultural practice.

Covering slurry and digestate stores reduces ammonia emissions. Without a crust, stores will able to hold more slurry – helping to ensure farms have enough storage to spread slurry only when crops will use the nutrients.

Dr Townsend said: “Without farmers managing the crust, they will have no idea what is happening underneath the cover – and by the time a crust becomes noticeable, it might be too late to intervene.

He added: “By improving the nutrient value of slurry by releasing

Slurry stores will have to be properly covered from 2027

“

Slurry is a valuable product'

trapped nitrogen, carbon, phosphate and potassium materials into the slurry, farmers have the potential to reduce the use of synthetic fertiliser.”

Two-step process SlurryBugs and SlurryBugs Maintenance should be applied in a two-step process. New customers and those with a crusting issue are advised to use SlurryBugs to break down any existing crust and prevent the accumulation of fibrous material.

Each 1.5kg sachet of SlurryBugs treats 500m3 of slurry. Once a homogeneous slurry has been achieved and the crust is under control, SlurryBugs Maintenance is a lower-concentration product that can help prevent further problems.

“Slurry is a valuable product, and you must make it work for you,” said Dr Townsend.

Sachets could be used over the summer to top up the bacteria content and prevent dry crusts from forming ahead of the next storage season.

“Not only have we refined our products through this rigorous testing and utilising specialist strains of bacteria, but we have also made it easier for farmers to treat their slurry and prevent any unforeseen crust crisis from occurring.”

Apply for a free year supply of SlurryBugs worth £1,000 Farmers can find out more about slurry inoculants by visiting the EnviroSystems stand at next month’s Dairy-Tech event.

EnviroSystems managing director Liz Russell has been at the forefront of slurry additive research. She will be at the Dairy Tech event – held on 7 February at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire.

Dairy producers attending the event will be able to apply for a free year’s supply of SlurryBugs in exchange for data collection, said Ms Russell. Spaces are limited and terms and conditions apply.

The closing date for applications is 28 February 2024. For details, visit EnviroSystems on stand L2 at Dairy-Tech or email info@envirosystems.co.uk.

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Slurry Infrastructure Grants Infrastructure grants of between £25,000 and £250,000 to help farmers improve slurry storage should not overlook the importance of mixers and pumps – according to Landia.

Following the recent comments made by John Tydeman of Tramspread about offsetting the huge cost of managing slurry by improving its value as a fertiliser to reduce bought-in products, Landia agree that a more homogenised product provides significant benefits.

Paul Davies from Landia commented: “As farms continue to increase in size, managing slurry really needs three-phase automation, rather than the labour and fuel costs of having to use a tractor.

“John (Tydeman) is right to state that when handling slurry, one should try to reduce wear on equipment, and that a decent separator to remove fibres will certainly improve capacity, but with or especially without a separator, a good quality mixing set up is a must.

“Not just in the agriculture industry, it is often considered that ‘any old mixer will do,’ but I would urge farmers lucky enough to be awarded a grant to place more importance on specifying a robust mixer that will last. Likewise, a perfectly good pump often gets the blame for an inefficient slurry process, when the addition of a mixer to a slurry pit is all that is needed.”

A good quality mixing set up is a must for handling slurry.

The new grants that are aimed at helping farmers improve the use of organic nutrients to boost productivity and reduce pollution, also (for the first time) offer help towards investing in a slurry separator.

“This is a positive step forward,” added Landia’s Paul Davies. “Separators can help make slurry easier to store, and move around the farm, but again, please don’t think of the separator in isolation. We’ve just helped a farmer with a new system for pumping slurry from the reception pit up to the separator, because he was having to fix his existing slurry pump every week. It was a perfectly good pump for ‘slurry’, but not for sandladen slurry. You need a much tougher pump, and the right set-up, so it’s not all about the separator.

Landia worked closely with the farmer to emphasise the need to keep the sand-laden slurry moving as quickly as possible and whilst as fresh as possible.

“Put simply, a large reception pit needs a large mixer,” continued Davies, “whereas a smaller pit with a smaller mixer means that less sand can drop out. This is the very problem the farmer had, because he could not resuspend the sand that had dropped out, because the reception pit was too big.”

“Not everyone uses sand as bedding of course, but working with vastly experienced suppliers such as Midland Slurry Systems, we can see first-hand just how important the right pumps and mixers are to the success of a separator.”

The right pumps and mixers can be crucial to the success of a separator.

Muck & Slurry

New spreader range set for LAMMA launch

M

uck-spreading specialists GT Bunning & Sons will launch a new range of machines at this month’s LAMMA event – held on 17-18 January at the Birmingham NEC. The new 120 Compact Narrow HBD spreader will be on the stand and is part of Bunning’s new Lowlander Narrow range. It is aimed at users seeking accurate, lower application rates of dense products such as lime – as well as farm-yard manure, chicken manure and compost.

Four new models – Lowlander 120, 120 (Compact), 150 and 150 (Compact) – feature narrower bodies to achieve lower application rates whilst retaining the two 1,100mm spinning discs as standard on HBD machines.

More vestatile Bunning sales manager Ben Johnson says the new range offers more versatility. “The narrow spreaders will appeal to users wanting to run wider tyres to reduce compaction but within a 3m road width while allowing lower

applications rates to be applied due to a narrower aperture.”

The Narrow range features a 1,250mm-wide body compared with the 1,500mm body on standard HBD machines. It includes a larger floor drive gearbox, more torque and larger motors on the gearbox to increase performance at low floor speeds.

To improve product transfer to the discs, the spreaders feature addition-

The new Lowlander Narrow can spread accurately at low rates

al floor slats on every other horizontal chain link on the moving floor – standard HBD spreaders feature a floor slat on every third horizontal link.

Running wider flotation tyres is a popular factory upgrade and the new range can be fitted with wider 800/70 R38 tyres to remain under 3m wide.

The model at LAMMA is available for demonstration throughout the UK and the spreaders can be ordered now.

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FINAL SAY Clodhopper

Land rents are too high for farming When you look back far enough, sometimes you can see the future, says Clodhopper

T

he last of my farming friends has decided to call it a day. It’s a big decision – and one that has been pending for 12 months or more.

I suspect the thing that swung it was the government’s outgoers scheme –Defra’s one-off payment for retiring farmers.

The scheme is another ill-thought-out initaitive that should have encouraged a fresh generation to farm. But with a little bit of clever paperwork, my colleague has given up his council smallholding and rented out the rest of his land to his much bigger neighbour.

My colleague takes a nice lump sum, his neighbour adds another 100+ acres to his farm and the council small-holding is left to be re-let. But to whom?

There are plenty of applications but how on earth is the successful candidate going to survive, let alone thrive? The council holding is barely 170 acres with a few standard buildings and a house needing modernisation.

Meagre wages As someone pointed out, the council is refusing to consider tenders from established farmers and industry giants – but it is still seeking a substantial rent increase despite the current farming climate.

Offers for the small-holding quickly reached almost £250/acre. A decade ago, a

1000-acre cereal farm would just about provide an adequate living. But these days it’s a struggle unless you accept meagre wages and small returns.

I remember receiving £208/tonne for wheat about 10 years ago. These days, with wheat below £200/tonne, a whispered conversation at a recent accountancy seminar suggested it was impossible at that price to justify the purchase of £250,000 new tractor.

As I get older, I have tended to lose contact with many of today’s younger farmers – mainly because they are always working.

One thing is clear, the poor souls need some relief from modern farming pressures – including money worries.

The successful applicant for the council farm wasn’t helped by the wet autumn and an 11 October start date. With recently lifted potato land too wet to drill and beet still to be lifted, his options were limited to a small percentage of the farm being drilled.

The current farm employee has little or no machinery to work with which means hiring a main tractor and working the land evenings

“

and weekends. No surprise then that people are sympathetic to the new applicant’s plight with his rent nearing £275/acre.

Subsidise The council has proved keen to ensure that the incoming tenant is able and willing to pay for any small repair. It has done this while rejecting a tender from the established farm next door who may have been able to subsidise the high rent involved.

Now we are in a situation where the small area of land that could be drilled has been drilled by the farmer next door for the incoming tenant. The rest of the land will be left to dry out until spring when two parties will sub let.

One will go to British Sugar to crop and manage its own sugar beet. The rest will go to a well established farming family who provide the local digester with maize. Rent for the holding is £275/acre, rent for sugar beet is £230 and maize is about the same.

It’s a tough life indeed. There is nothing much more to add really, is there?

How on earth will they survive?

39 MIDLAND FARMER • JANUARY 2024 JANUARY 2024 • MIDLAND FARMER 39

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