INSIDE: £21m Digital Dairy Chain opens page 14
Farming MONTHLY National
June 2022
Also in this issue... I New Farming Conference will help an industry facing major change page 16
Also inside this month..
| Rain gauge winner set to make crop saving page 26
Sustainable Agrifac fac tory
Vaderstad Carrier XT 425-626
Predictability of farmed calves
PLUS: Arable| Grain | Potatoes | Energy | Farm Safety & Security|Grass & Silage| Livestock| ATV | Motors
• • • •
5-meter HD trailed seed bed cultivator on farm £16,000 3-meter HD subsoiler and disc combination on farm £15,500 Full specification as standard While stocks last
o Moisture Sensors o Application Equipment o Bale Tarpaulins o Hedging Saws o Cultivation Equipment Andrew 07967 300 578 Office 01805 603 363 www.pfc-eu.com info@pfc-eu.com
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CONTENTS J u n e 2022
FEATURES
20 Arable
64 Mental Health
72 Livestock
28 Grain
66 Farm Safety & Security
78 Muck and Slurry
30 Finance 32 Potatoes & Root Crops 40 Grass & Silage
FM REGULARS National
44 Cereals Post Show
6 News
84 Machinery
48 Diversification
58 Buildings
98 ATV
50 Show News
60 Energy
106 Motors
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Farming Monthly | June 2022
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Farming MONTHLY National
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For editorial, general enquiries or to advertise please call +44 (0) 2476 353537 or email sales@farmingmonthly.com Farming Monthly National is published monthly in the UK by Farming Monthly Ltd, Tel: +44 (0) 2476 353537 Printed in the UK No part of this magazine may be reproduced without permission from the publisher. Whilst every attempt is made to ensure accuracy, the opinions expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of the Editor or publication. The Editor also reserves the right to alter or edit material as required and no responsibility is accepted for inaccuracies. Full copyright applies. All rights reserved. ISSN 2044-0190 (print) ISSN 2044-0200 (digital)
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MACHINES FOR GRASSLAND CARE, RESEEDING, UNDERSEEDING AND SEEDING June 2022 | Farming Monthly |
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Reinhold Claas passed away
einhold Claas, a longstanding member of the Shareholders Committee and Supervisory Board of the CLAAS Group, passed away on 7 June 2022 at the age of 91. Reinhold Claas was the third child of company founder August Claas and wife Paula Claas. Together with his brother Helmut Claas, he played a sizeable role in building up the company after the Second World War. With him, the last shareholder of the second family generation passes away.
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"All those who knew Reinhold Claas appreciated him for his friendly and modest manner. People and the well-being of the family business always came first for him. Through his actions in important phases of the company's history, he made a significant contribution to our success today," explains Thomas Böck, CEO of CLAAS. Reinhold Claas was a graduate industrial engineer. He graduated from Darmstadt Technical University in 1958. He was one of the first graduates of this new 6|
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interdisciplinary course of study, consisting of mechanical engineering and business administration. Reinhold Claas officially joined the company with his brother Helmut in July 1957. His main focus was on the development of balers and forage harvesters. Among other things, he was responsible for setting up baler production at the newly built factory in Metz, France. Until the 1970s, he expanded the production site and developed it to its current size.
Reinhold Claas was also the driving force behind the takeover of the renowned specialist for forage harvesting machines, the former Josef Bautz GmbH in Bad Saulgau, which joined CLAAS in 1969. As its managing director for many years, he developed the Swabian affiliate into what would later become a successful and innovative product division. Reinhold Claas was also active as an entrepreneur outside the family business: in 1958 he took over two ball bearing companies - one in Fribourg, Switzerland, with 250 employees, and another in Munderkingen, Swabia, with 550 employees. He managed both
companies until the 1990s. During his active time, he also applied for a patent for more than 40 inventions.
Both in his home town of Harsewinkel and in the region, Reinhold Claas was socially involved in many clubs and organisations, especially in football and handball, which earned him high recognition. His great passion in his private life was hunting. Reinhold Claas was married to his wife Doris for many years before she passed away in December 2005. The marriage produced sons Volker and Rüdiger Claas. The early death of his son Volker Claas, who died in January 2022 at the age of 57, hit him particularly hard. Most recently, Reinhold Claas held a seat on the Supervisory Board and two advisory boards. In the CLAAS Group, his son Rüdiger Claas is now the third generation to succeed his father. The death of Reinhold Claas deeply saddens his family, the shareholders, the Executive Board and the employees.
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Neal’s Yard Remedies hold Bee Symposium as part of their Save the Bees campaign n 21 June 2022, Anabel Kindersley, Co-owner of Neal’s Yard Remedies, is hosting a Bee Symposium at Camley Street Natural Park, bringing together like-minded businesses to debate and address the issue of this bee-harming neonicotinoid pesticides and explore ways of working with nature to protect the UK’s bee population.
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Chairing the symposium is Lucy Siegel, Environmental Writer and Broadcaster. She is joined by a powerhouse panel of environmental experts, including Dave Goulson, Professor of Biology at the University of Sussex and bee ecology specialist, Helen Browning OBE, Chief Executive of the Soil Association, Paul De Zylva, Senior Analyst at Friends of the Earth, and Anabel Kindersley. Neal’s Yard Remedies has a longstanding history of campaigning to help support bee species facing dramatic decline. In 2011, the
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business launched its Save the Bees campaign and has raised over £250,000 for bee-friendly causes through sales of its Bee Lovely collection, helping to save over 56 million bees through charity partnerships over the past decade. In 2012, the company delivered its Bee Lovely petition - containing 117,000 signatures - to 10 Downing Street, lobbying the government to ban three toxic neonicotinoid pesticides within the EU. However, in early 2022, the government temporarily re-introduced neonicotinoid pesticides as an emergency measure in the case of the sugar beet crop. Earlier this year, Anabel Kindersley rallied the support and signatures of 55 British businesses and organisations for her letter to the government, calling for a total ban on toxic neonicotinoid pesticides and support for farmers transitioning to nature-friendly alternatives. In March, Anabel hand-delivered the letter alongside Jayn Sterland, Chair of the
Sustainable Beauty Coalition and MD at Weleda UK, Millie Kendall OBE, Chief Executive Officer of the British Beauty Council, and Lucy Siegle. “Standing united on this matter is more than just a coming together of like-minded businesses. It’s a call to arms for every person, company and organisation to spread the word and spur action. We hope that together, our voices will amplify the call on the government and drive positive, meaningful change.” – Anabel Kindersley, Co-owner of Neal’s Yard Remedies. The Bee Symposium is Neal’s Yard Remedies’ next step. Through stimulating discussion and insightful debate, Anabel and the panel are set to explore tangible ways of working with nature to protect our precious pollinators, leveraging the collective power of all participating businesses and organisations to raise awareness and incite change.
June 2022 | Farming Monthly |
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ropSaver is launching the new 7 Series bale management systems for all types of large square baler. The 7 Series builds on the precision and functionality of the previous 600 Series while reducing the overall capital cost of a system. The H2O precision moisture sensor and is the building block for additional 7 Series modules. Accurate measurement of moisture
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is key to understanding further improvements in the management of your baling operation. The H2O moisture sensor with its 24 years of infield experience is built for the latest generation of high density large square balers. The technology used to read moisture is market leading +/- 1% accuracy with zero calibration requirements in different crop types or density. The twin star wheels 8|
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measure by pulsing an electrical signal through the entire bale flake profile. The CropSaver team is often asked ‘why we would pay more for your moisture sensor’, the simple answer is accuracy and reliability with ease of use whether it is integrated to he baler or as a smart device standalone system. Why should a baler operator accept data that is less accurate from a rub pad or moisture probe? With the twin star wheel system, the operator can have full confidence in the data produced. In the near future a secondgeneration RFID bale tagging system will complement the wet bale marker that provides a simple low-cost option to highlight bales that exceed the operators defined moisture limit. Marking with a food grade colour of the high moisture bales allows the bales to be separated at the stacking point so that the number of waste or poorquality bales are reduced. The third component is the automatic variable rate applicator which is suitable for all large square balers. The new 7 Series is approximately a 20% saving in capital cost. CropSaver uses the balers onboard sensors such as the electronic bale length and weigh scale to monitors the balers performance, adjusting CropSaver pH 6.0 buffered acid application in real time.
CropSaver pH6.0 animal safe buffered acid. This is an integral part to assist in the baling of high moisture hay and straw when the
weather is fighting you all the way to the barn. We have all heard stories of straw baled too wet and turns out like cardboard or hay baled to wet and the usual comments of ‘leave it in the field for a few weeks to sweat’ or at worst self-combust. Once you exceed 16% moisture just as with grain there is varying degrees of spoilage unless using our highquality bale preservative. NEW 7 Series is the most costeffective tool to assist in your baling operation. Improving your understanding of moisture in crops and being able to manage high moisture bales with the wet bale marker or utilising the ultimate bale management applicator system. CropSaver is available from your local New Holland Dealer www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
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For all Bale types and sizes
Office: 01805 603 363 info@pfc-eu.com www.pfc-eu.com
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June 2022 | Farming Monthly |
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The Buffalo Farm Secures Nationwide Deal with Aldi Scotland for its Locally Produced Buffalo Mozzarella cotland’s only producer of Buffalo Mozzarella is targeting significant growth in sales in a bid to outperform the original Italian product as it reveals its first supermarket listing.
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The Buffalo Farm, Fife, has secured placement across all of Aldi Scotland’s 102 stores, for its innovative product which offers a locally produced alternative to the hugely popular Italian cheese. The business began producing its Buffalo Mozzarella less than a year ago, following a huge crowdfunding effort which saw the supplier raise over £800,000 to bring to the product to market. Since then, the product and its producers have gone on to win multiple awards, the most recent accolade awarded to The Buffalo Farm at The Scottish Retail Food & Drink Awards where they won Gold in the Large Producer category. Following the deal with Aldi Scotland, which will see the product join the retailer’s Specially Selected range, The Buffalo Farm expect to triple its production of Scotland’s only mozzarella over the next two years and anticipates sales to the popular value retailer will account for as much as 50% of its total revenue. Made from the milk of grass-fed water buffalo, which were selected from the best herds across Europe, 10 |
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Scottish Buffalo Mozzarella is sumptuously creamy, full of flavour and has a wonderfully soft texture. Founder of The Buffalo Farm Steve Mitchell, who has appeared on the likes of BBC’s Farming Life and Gordon Ramsay’s The F Word believes that the Scottish-made cheese can outperform the Italian product, as it has done in Ireland, where locally produced mozzarella is now the most popular choice. He said: “The Italians are the original creators of Buffalo Mozzarella, and there is no denying the exceptional quality and popularity of their products. While there are of course similarities between the two, there are differences in the taste and texture. “Scotland is renowned globally for its quality of grass and natural larder. Our buffalo feed on this grass all day long, giving their milk a distinctive flavour and freshness. “Ever since I purchased my first buffalo, I have dreamed of becoming Scotland’s first producer of Buffalo Mozzarella. My journey hasn’t been without challenge, but to be able to raise £800,000 for its development demonstrates widespread belief in this product. There is clearly an appetite for it, and we have seen in Ireland that the fresher, locally produced cheese is now the preferred choice.
“Aldi Scotland is a central part of our story. Without its support, my vision wouldn’t now be a reality, and we are hugely grateful for the guidance its team has provided to help us bring our product to the people of Scotland.” Graham Nicolson, Group Buying Director, Aldi Scotland said: “Scotland has some of the most dynamic food and drink producers anywhere in the world, and The Buffalo Farm is a great example of the exceptional innovation we are seeing here in this country. “Steve and his team have taken a hugely popular product, which has been around for generations, and found a way to make it Scottish, providing a fresher alternative, that is full of flavour. “We are excited to be on this journey with them, and to be the first supermarket in the world to offer Scottish Buffalo Mozzarella to shoppers.” The Buffalo Farm has Scotland's largest herd of Water Buffalo, with over 500 buffalo freely roaming the hills at Clentrie Farm. Specially Selected Scottish Buffalo Mozzarella is now available at all 102 Aldi Scotland stores for only £1.69. You can find your nearest Aldi here.
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Land to be devalued for compulsory purchase, warns CAAV roposed changes to compulsory purchase compensation in England and Wales will see landowners forced to sell their land for below market value to facilitate new development.
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The consultation proposes changes to the compulsory purchase system in the name of aiding public sector development including housing, regeneration and infrastructure, says Jeremy Moody, secretary and adviser to the Central Association of Agricultural Valuers. It will enable local authorities and other public sector acquirers to take land without necessarily paying for ‘hope value’ where there is already the opportunity for development. “The principle of equivalence has long lain at the heart of compulsory purchase compensation,” says Mr Moody. “While sounding fair, its inbuilt downward pressure on price encourages resistance, delay and extra cost for projects, such that George Osborne advocated changing it seven years ago.” Then Chancellor of the Exchequer, Mr Osborne said: “If you pay people a little more you’d get planning a little quicker and the whole process could cost less.” However, the Government is now proposing the opposite – so that there would be one price when land is sold in the open market and another lower one when it is taken by compulsory purchase. “History
shows that such a two-tier market will be seen as unfair and leads to difficulty and complexity,” says Mr Moody. The Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill would allow ‘public sector entities’ to ask the Government for authority to cap compensation at existing use value. The consultation proposes to go even further, by capping or removing hope value either for compulsory purchase generally or in relation to specific types of schemes. It argues that a ‘fair’ price would aid the viability of the scheme. “But it opens the door to paying less than market value for property taken by a public sector body.” Other measures in the Bill include the Infrastructure Levy, changes to local plans, and the creation of locally-led development corporations. Suppressing land value in this way could be part of a drive for new settlements with land taken for that new housing at less than its possible market value. But as the consultation opened on 6 June and closes on 19 July, it leaves only a narrow window in which representations can be made, warns Mr Moody. “The question is whether policy makers, who are almost never on the receiving end of compulsory purchase, either understand or care about property rights and their powerful role in the economy, for
Jeremy Moody businesses, families, and as an enabler of investment.” This proposal is not alone. Other Government Bills in Parliament would further weaken landowners’ rights and degrade value under the Electronic Communications Code, even though the 2017 Code has created resistance, cost, delays and 100 times more litigation. There are also plans to repeal nofault notices for shorthold tenancies, making them significantly less attractive to landlords. “This sector has already lost 250,000 dwellings (6%) since 2019 with increasing fiscal and legislative pressure,” says Mr Moody. “Such a trend removes the opportunity to rent, which is often scarce in rural areas, and drives rents up further. “Where policies make property a plaything, distort markets and focus on symptoms, not causes, that weakens the economy and stores problems for the future.” •
For more information visit www.caav.org.uk
ELMs is right way to reduce farmers' costs, says CPRE esponding to calls from some MPs to delay or scrap the new system of agricultural subsidies, known as Environmental Land Management schemes, Tom Fyans, director of campaigns and policy at CPRE, the countryside charity, said: 'The current system of agricultural subsidies inherited from the EU are coming to an end for good reason:
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they are bad for farmers, consumers and the planet. Dragging out a discredited system in the face of rising input costs for farmers is going to make a bad situation worse. The government is absolutely right to insist on the transition to Environmental Land Management schemes, though it needs to do more to facilitate a smooth transition that empowers farmers to deliver a greener, healthier and more
productive countryside. 'What's crippling farmers currently is soaring energy and fertiliser costs. Transitioning to more environmentally friendly farming not only lessens agriculture's impact on the climate but reduces the amount of energy and fertiliser used, saving farmers money. Any delay to ELMs would saddle farmers with higher costs for longer and make the eventual transition more painful.'
June 2022 | Farming Monthly |
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Innovative and progressive farmer sought to take on unique rural business in stunning East Devon he search is on for an innovative farmer with the inspiration and energy to embark on a once-in-a-generation tenancy opportunity in East Devon.
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Candidates are being asked to take a rather unusual approach to their application, by recording a 60 second film explaining why they would be the best tenant for the Clinton Devon Estates-owned Dalditch Farm, which stretches across 237 acres of stunning countryside between the Jurassic Coast at Budleigh Salterton and the 12 |
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Pebblebed Heaths National Nature Reserve. Formerly home to a small-scale organic in-hand dairy operation, Dalditch is being offered to someone who wants to take the next exciting step in their farming career. Clinton Devon Estates Director John Varley, said: “We are looking for a long term relationship with tenants who have the energy, innovation and enthusiasm to open up a world of opportunity at Dalditch Farm. That may be through traditional or new farming methods that balance food production with the needs of nature
and biodiversity, or perhaps it’s through diversification, taking the farm in a new and exciting direction. “Whatever the vision, we will support the tenants to help them deliver their objectives while ensuring they meet the needs of both the environment and the wider community. We are looking for tenants who are a perfect fit for the farm and part of the selection process will be the video in which they will have just 60 seconds to tell us why this opportunity is right for them.” The Estate is looking for a farmer who will embrace the changes occurring in agriculture and demonstrate innovation and www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
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resilience in a sustainable farming business. A business model that can produce food profitably, whilst also improving the quality of the environment for nature and for people. They will need to share the Estate’s vision for the farm, capitalising on the very special location and diversification opportunities including tourism and the environment. Farming tenancies with the Estate very rarely arise – the most recent in 2017 was the first in 20 years making this a rare opportunity to really make a positive difference. Whatever innovative business plan the new tenants wish to pursue, they must demonstrate a commitment to the Estate’s core values of sustainability and stewardship of the land. There is no requirement to continue to farm organically, although the new tenants’ business venture must bring benefits to the land and its wildlife, as well as to both the local community and visitors. Located in the village of Knowle on the outskirts of Budleigh Salterton, Dalditch Farm has a traditional, fourbedroom farmhouse with a range of associated, fully equipped farm buildings and an easily accessible yard. The farm has a long-term association with the National Dormouse Monitoring Programme and also supports the annual Kingfisher Scheme, providing a chance for schoolchildren to explore and learn www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
about the countryside. It also plays a role in water management via Knowle Brook, that runs past the farm. The Estate hopes to repeat its success of letting Stantyway Farm near Otterton in 2017. Clinton Devon Estates Surveyor Clare James, said: “Stantyway Farm has been a real success story in the
way tenants Sam and Nell Walker have been able to maintain the farming tradition and support our ethos of conservation and stewardship of the land. “We will obviously be looking to the new tenants of Dalditch Farm to be aware of the bigger environmental picture and we will support them in meeting those requirements,
alongside creating a thriving business for the future.” The Estate is planning to let the farm from March 2023(or earlier by agreement). Viewing days will be taking place, strictly by appointment, on Wednesday 13th July and Thursday 14th of July. Tenancy hopefuls will then be asked to submit their one-minute film
explaining why the opportunity is right for them. Full details on how to apply can be found on the Estate’s website at https://clintondevon.com/dalditchfarm-letting/ and Friday 19th August is the closing date for tenders.
June 2022 | Farming Monthly |
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£21m Digital Dairy Chain opens he South-West of Scotland and Cumbria will become the “go to” region for future investment in high-tech dairy processing.
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This is according to project leads at the £21 million Digital Dairy Chain, which was officially launched this week near Dumfries. Led by Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) from its Barony campus, it will see partners across South-West Scotland and Cumbria focussing on developing a fully integrated and traceable dairy supply chain. Aligning with Scotland’s Strategy for Economic Transformation, it is planned that the Digital Dairy Chain will eventually lead to the creation of more than 600 jobs and generate £60m a year of additional value. It will do this by attracting large dairy processors to the region, supporting investment in industry-focussed research and development and by turning South-West Scotland and Cumbria into a “magnet” for tech companies. Supported by £21.3m from the UK Government’s Strength in Places Fund, the Digital Dairy Chain’s initial focus will be on the use of sensors and data from dairy herds and how it can be utilised to produce more and 14 |
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better dairy products.
UK Government Minister for Scotland Iain Stewart said: “The Borderlands are home to many innovative dairy farmers and producers who are boosting the value of their industry and the region’s economy while also making significant improvements in both sustainability and welfare. “The UK Government’s £21.3 million investment will help the development of these innovations by supporting the use of sensors and data right across the industry. “We are also investing £4m in the flagship Dairy Nexus facility at the Barony Campus as part of our £265m investment in the Borderlands Growth Deal.” Professor Wayne Powell, Principal and Chief Executive of SRUC, said: “Working with local and national businesses, the Digital Dairy Chain will transform the region’s dairy production systems and establish it as a global leader in advanced, sustainable and high-value dairy manufacturing. “It will foster entrepreneurship, create new market opportunities, add new skills to the workforce and lay the foundations for more productive regions, all while making the critical journey towards net zero.”
Jo Lappin, Chief Executive of Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership, said: “Innovation is critical to improving productivity and addressing labour supply issues and the Digital Dairy Chain can play a really important part in supporting our dairy sector to innovate. This matters to Cumbria as we are home to one of the biggest dairy herds in the UK. I am delighted that the Dairy Chain is now formally launched and look forward to continued close working with colleagues in SRUC to deliver this important project in South-West Scotland and Cumbria.” In addition to SRUC, the Digital Dairy Chain comprises a number of partners in the region, including the University of Strathclyde, University of the West of Scotland, CENSIS, First Milk, Lactalis UK & Ireland, Kendal Nutricare, Cows & Co Group, National Milk Records and SmartSTEMs. Cumbria and South-West Scotland is the UK’s second largest milk field, producing 1.9 billion litres each year, with a farm-gate value of £750 million. There are 52 dairy manufacturing businesses adding value to milk produced from 1,300 farms. To find out more about the Digital Dairy Chain, visit www.digitaldairychain.co.uk
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GOVT'S GENE EDITING BILL THREATENS FARMERS' RIGHTS AND LIVELIHOODS T he Landworkers' Alliance, an agroecological farming union, is deeply concerned that the Government's Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Bill, receiving its second reading in the House of Commons on Wednesday, could threaten the rights and livelihoods of agroecological and organic farmers, who lead the way in UK production of food that is healthy for people and the environment. The deregulation of new geneediting technologies in this rushed and misleading Bill could increase the risk of contaminating agroecological and organic crops, which could have huge financial implications for organic farmers who rely on certification for selling their products. The Bill also makes no requirements for these new gene-edited varieties to be labelled. This lack of traceability and transparency when seeds enter the market would severely compromise the ability of farmers to make informed decisions about the food they produce, while also leaving people in the dark about what they're buying in supermarkets. Jyoti Fernandes, Policy and Campaigns Coordinator, from the Landworkers' Alliance said: "This complicated Bill has ethical, environmental, and regulatory issues that affect farmers and all of us who eat food but the government is ignoring valid concerns in its vainglorious desire to demonstrate its independence from the European Union. The Government is ignoring its own research showing that the vast majority of people want to know if their food has been altered by genetic technology through clear labelling – there is no provision for labelling in this Bill. This Bill erodes farmers' rights to know whether their seeds and feed have been tampered with, and all of our rights to know how our food is produced so we make the best choices for our families and the future of the planet." The Bill, introduced to Parliament on May 25, uses misleading language in an area already confusing to nonexperts. It would remove regulations on Precision Bred Organisms (PBOs) – plants and animals that have been modified using genewww.farmingmonthly.co.uk
editing techniques – while maintaining existing regulations on genetically-modified organisms (GMOs). However, the Bill makes no mention of the well-known terms GMOs or genetically modified (GM). The LWA, like many other naturefocussed groups, see the distinction between gene editing and genetically modified as disingenuous, as both techniques involve genetic material being swapped between organisms. It fears the Bill will be a doorway to deregulation of GM products. Gerald Miles is a member of the Landworkers' Alliance coordinating group and an organic farmer in Wales. He says: "Politicians should be edited, not plants. Gene editing and precision breeding are weasel words to describe ways of genetically modifying organisms which is unnecessary when we have an abundance of heritage crops and new methods of improving soil quality, such as using nitrogen-fixing crops, rather than pesticides. Food security is a priority in the UK, and diversity of crops is what will make food production secure in the UK and recover the biodiversity lost by intensive monoculture farming, not more genetically-modified food and feed."
This Bill is another misguided attempt by a Government in thrall to false 'technological solutions' to the climate and social crises, which just make rich companies even richer while potentially taking choices away from farmers. It is a distraction from real systemic solutions which include localising food systems, celebrating and protecting diversity, valuing food producers and paying them a fair price, and putting decision-making power in the hands of farmers, food producers and local communities. Prof David Rose, Professor of Sustainable Agricultural Systems at Cranfield University, said: "New agricultural technologies, such as gene editing, are never a silver bullet to food system challenges and always create a unique set of winners and losers. Gene editing has the medium-term potential to improve productivity and reduce environmental pressures, but there are legitimately held concerns that it also has potential to consolidate
power inequalities in the food supply chain, for example by corporate control of seeds, and exacerbate deeply entrenched social inequalities in the food system. We must consider how we can encourage a diversity of future farming visions, including smallscale and organic farmers. The Bill must ensure there are checks and balances with teeth for responsible use of this technology." The LWA, and other organisations working with more nature-friendly methods of farming, have deep concerns that genetically modified plants, including gene edited and precision bred plants, could contaminate nearby non geneticallymodified crops. The LWA fears this Bill will affect farmers' ability to save seed, and the biodiversity upon which we depend; while doing nothing to mitigate the risks associated with novel gene technologies. Steven Jacobs is from Organic Farmers and Growers, an organisation that certifies more than half of the UK's organic land. He says: "There is little or no evidence that the Government's much vaunted GE 'sticking plaster' will effectively tackle the current social and environmental emergencies. While we all believe that it is important to recognise the need to work on many different fronts, organic represents a scientifically proven approach that is working today within an established legislative framework. As the largest certifier of organic land in the UK we are calling on the Government to take a responsible position and to implement measures that prevent cross-contamination and ensure safety for farmers, for the public and for the natural world." The LWA and Organic Farmers and Growers have signed a joint statement of 30 groups and individuals from UK civil society urging MPs to take urgent steps to amend and strengthen the draft Genetic Technologies (Precision Breeding) Bill. The practices and experience of agroecological and organic farmers are especially valuable at a time when the Government is bringing in environmental land management schemes (ELMS) as part of a sweeping agricultural transition.
June 2022 | Farming Monthly |
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New farming conference will help an industry facing major change he Autumn Farming Conference, a brand-new event for farmers, growers, landowners, and those involved in the agricultural sector will take place on Tuesday 4 October 2022 at Trinity Park, Ipswich.
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It is being organised by Larking Gowen, a major regional independent accountancy partnership and one of the UK’s top 40 accountancy firms, in conjunction with the Country Land and Business Association (CLA), the membership organisation for owners of land, property and businesses in rural England and Wales. “The farming industry is at a massive crossroads right now, largely because of major changes in the sector post Brexit, together with the loss of the Basic Payment Scheme and the effects of climate change,” states Bruce Masson, the Larking Gowen Partner who originated the concept. “The impact of these and other factors has been amplified by the terrible situation in Ukraine, which no-one could have predicted and will have a significant global impact for the foreseeable future. “Farmers and rural enterprises have been severely impacted, so are looking for guidance and ideas. To help them plot a way forward we have brought together a compelling group of speakers whose talents and experience span a range of complementary fields.”
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Chaired by CLA East Director Cath Crowther, the event will include presentations by experts from across the farming sector on a range of topics, providing practical advice and an opportunity to meet others in the sector. The conference will include the following presentations: • Steven Rudd, Larking Gowen’s Head of Farms and Landed Estates, which is the largest of its type in East Anglia and one of the largest in the country. Delegates will also learn more about the government’s viewpoint from Jo Churchill, Member of Parliament for Bury St Edmunds since 2015 and current Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). • Stuart and Rebecca Mayhew, founder members of Regenerative Agriculture Community East (RACE). Formed in April 2022, it aims to connect the region’s farmers, retailers, and consumers, shortening supply chains, supporting sustainable farming, and helping improve food security. They will explain what regenerative agriculture is, engage in some myth busting about the concept and give examples of how it works in practice, as well as presenting a case study of their Old Hall Farm, Woodton near Bungay. • An analysis of farming data and a review of last season by Alec Smith, Director of highly respected agricultural and advisory business Sentry Ltd. Based
ettex is now the exclusive GB distributor for EnduraBol, a complete range of boluses for beef and dairy producers by British owned and operated Rumbol Products Ltd.
“The new arrangement will ensure the renowned bolus technology continues to be available, but now with the full support of the Nettex commercial and technical teams,” says Nettex Commercial Director Claire Lalor. “It also brings together Nettex’s respected presence across the agricultural nutrition sector and Rumbol Products Ltd’s long standing technical and manufacturing expertise. This will help provide both retailers and farmers with the technical support they need to identify and implement the best nutrient programme for cattle.” Manufactured in the UK and available globally, EnduraBol boluses utilise patented technology developed and perfected by Rumbol Products Ltd, which has been tried and trusted by farmers for over 30 years. EnduraBol bolus technology features “single point erosion” that ensures a consistent and reliable delivery of trace elements and vitamins for up to eight months. In return, fertility, growth 16 |
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in Suffolk, the employee-owned firm has a footprint across 15 counties and 50 years of trading experience. • A look at the future of farming by Jason Cantrill, a Partner at Ceres Rural. Based at the firm’s Norwich office, Jason is a qualified Chartered Surveyor, RICS Registered Valuer and agricultural valuer. Covering Suffolk and Norfolk, he specialises in the management of farms, together with the formation of contract farming and joint venture agreements. • Emma Hayley from YANA (You Are Not Alone), the farming charity which provides mental health support for the farming and rural community. All profits from the conference will go to this much-admired organisation. • Izzi Rainey, who grew up on her family’s farm in Norfolk, will give firsthand experience of farm diversification without stewardship, talk about the success of women in agriculture and give her perspective of the role of the next generation in the industry. After graduating from the Glasgow School of Art, she established IzzyRainey, a farmbased textile company which designs and manufactures high quality stationery and homeware products. Further details of the Autumn Farming Conference are available at www.larking-gowen.co.uk /AFC and tickets can be booked online. The event on 4 October 2022 will start at 08.30 with arrival and registration before the first session commences at 09.15. The conference will conclude at 15.30.
rates and animal health is supported through improved nutrition while providing farmers with an easy to use, zero waste product. The EnduraBol range contains five formulations suitable for cattle over 150kg liveweight, offering farmers a choice of profiles to suit their systems and cattle’s needs. Product lines include High Iodine, Cattle, Biotin, Pre-Calver and Organic. Nettex, a division of Rumenco, offers a comprehensive range of UK manufactured animal health, performance and nutrition products that have been tailored to meet the needs of UK farmers. The addition of EnduraBol broadens and strengthens Nettex’s range of innovative products developed to help farmers maximise production from their livestock, says Ms Lalor. The company is also a distributor of EnduraBol in the Republic of Ireland. “We are excited to take on the agency for the distribution of EnduraBol boluses and strengthen the Nettex offering to the UK agricultural market, concludes Ms Lalor.
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| News
LOCAL LIVESTOCK FARMER TO PRESIDE AT DEVON COUNTY SHOW 2022 Tom Hammett, Honorary President of Devon County Show 2022, with wife Sarah. om Hammett from Broadclyst, who has been volunteering at Devon County Show since 1965, has been selected as Honorary President of Devon County Show 2022. Tom’s impeccable credentials in agriculture make him the perfect candidate for the role. Not only has Tom been a dedicated livestock farmer all his life, but he was also County Chairman and Trustee of Young Farmers in Devon for some 40 years, as well as a lay member of the Agricultural Land Tribunal until he retired from the role aged 70. Today, Tom remains a Trustee of the Devon Farmer’s Benevolent Fund.
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‘Being Show President is a big step up from my first role which was as a livestock steward while I was still in my early twenties’ says Tom. ‘It was when the show was still at Whipton. I was helping my father run the farm at that time and he’d only allow me one day off. But I absolutely loved it. It was the social event of the year for the agricultural community, and every farmer in the county that had a car attended.’
A couple of years later, Tom was promoted to Pedestrian Gate. One year, this involved counting in 11,000 school children who attended, all regimented into pairs. He recalls this being quite some task! In the mid 1990'sTom became Senior Steward of Car Parks, Gates and Entrances and then progressed to Chief Steward - a role he held until 2019. In 2022, in his role as Honorary President, Tom, along with wife, Sarah, will have a jam-packed three days, meeting and greeting, visiting all the sections, presenting prizes and hosting events. ‘These days, I can volunteer my time to the show more freely and be relaxed about it now that I’ve handed over the running of the farm to my son, Stephen. I’m so looking forward to the Show, getting out and about on the showground, playing a role I love, promoting British Farming and British Food to the Devon community. Bring it on!’
Keeping the wanderers happy and safe A nderson Fossett, of insurance broker Lycetts, advises on the steps farmers should be taking to protect themselves and the public.
Now that all lockdown restrictions have been lifted, ramblers, families and others determined to fully enjoy the rural landscape for the first time in two years are expected to be out in force. For farmers, this calls for measures to be in place to protect them from being injured by livestock. A question of liability Between 2016 and 2021, members of the public were among the 24 people killed by animals in the agricultural industry. Eighteen of these deaths were caused by cattle and six by bulls. Under the Occupiers Liability Acts 1957 and 1984, land managers are required to demonstrate a reasonable duty of care towards others. In addition, the Animals Act 1971 makes the keeper of an animal strictly liable, in the majority of cases, where injuries are caused. If any injury occurs on a public footpath that crosses a farmer’s land, the responsibility lies with the farmer. Incidents of people being trampled by a herd are sadly familiar, but lone cows can be just
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as dangerous. Mothers are extremely protective of their calves and may interpret a friendly and gentle approach as a serious threat.
It is for these reasons that it is essential to check that public liability insurance policies are up to date. Without it you could face a costly legal case that could potentially cause financial ruin.
The right signs
Daily checks for damage should be made on perimeter fencing, wires and rails. They should be well-maintained and secure. If you need to move cattle, the route should be planned in advance. Efforts should be made to minimise any possible contact with members of the public and to warn them to stay at a safe distance while the ‘move’ is taking place.
Talking bull Certain breeds of bulls, such as Ayrshire, Friesian, Holstein, Dairy Shorthorn, Guernsey, Jersey and Kerry, and that are more than ten months old, are all banned by law from being left to roam at large in fields crossed by public rights of way. In addition, bulls of any other breed aged over ten months are banned from fields with footpaths unless they are accompanied by cows or heifers. A common-sense approach should apply when it comes to bull breeds that are permitted. The animal’s temperament should be considered, and an eye should be kept on its demeanour. A bull that is placid one day could be 2,000 pounds of fury the next. If you have any concerns about a bull’s behaviour, remove it from the field. The best overall solution is, when possible, to keep cattle in fields that do not have public access.
One positive legacy of the pandemic was that with leisure facilities closed, many discovered the joys of countryside walks. But this increase in numbers has meant an increase in risk, making correct signage a must. These should be informative, accurate and in clear view of the public when animals are present. However, caution should be taken to avoid erecting signs that could be construed as misleading the public and discouraging them from exercising their right of responsible access. These may be regarded as an obstruction. By being aware of the potential risks and taking action to minimise them, farmers can help ensure the countryside is a safer place for all.
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University expertise helps secure major funding to support the future of British Farming cademics from the University of Lincoln, UK, have collaborated to secure more than £1.6m for innovative projects that will help to ensure the sustainability of British farming and agriculture.
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The funding has been awarded through Defra's Farming Innovation Programme, which seeks projects that will improve sustainability, productivity, and resilience of farming in the UK on a path to net zero. A total of 23 projects were awarded funding, four of which have involved academic teams at the Lincoln Institute for Agri-Food Technology (LIAT) and Lincoln Centre for Autonomous Systems (L-CAS). The projects have been developed in partnership with industry leaders and look to address issues faced by those in the industry with new, innovative solutions. The four projects are: Project High Speed Header (HSH): Next Generation Combines, which is led by Eyre Trailers Ltd. This project will develop a novel tractor mounted combine harvesting implement. This simple innovation will significantly reduce harvester mass enabling a flexible tractor mounted system, reducing the environmental impact caused by traditional large machines which cause soil compaction and loss of biodiversity and carbon reservoirs from boundary hedges and ditches. Larger machines also often provide a cost barrier to new
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farmers; this new solution will lead to a reduction in financial costs. The ARWAC Attack Blackgrass in Farming project, led by ARWAC Ltd, will create a robot powered by renewable energy, which will track and hoe blackgrass in commercial wheat crops. Due to herbicide resistance, blackgrass is responsible for £300m of yearly crop losses on UK farms and represents an increasing threat to food security. This project takes mechanical weeding to the next level, using autonomous technology to increase potential wheat yield and drive productivity whilst reducing the use of chemicals, fossil fuels, and manpower. The robot will be cocreated and demonstrated on Lincolnshire farms. Led by Earth Rover Ltd, the automated selective broccoli harvesting to increase grower productivity and resilience towards net zero project will take a proof-ofconcept broccoli harvesting machine to in-field testing, developing a preproduction prototype. The new automated approach will not only help address issues caused by labour shortages, with broccoli typically harvested manually, but also around food waste. The new harvester will harvest the whole broccoli plant, opening the potential to create valuable and nutritious plant-based foods from what was previously seen as crop waste. The Collaborative fruit (Co-FRUIT) retrieval using intelligent transportation project, led by Performance Projects Ltd, proposes an innovative approach to
harvesting, using a novel low-cost robot platform and collaborative human-robot teams. Artificial Intelligence is utilised to allocate tasks, maximising labour efficiency: humans undertake tasks for which they are particularly highly skilled with robots complementing the human skills. This could include robots transporting berries harvested by humans from polytunnels to the packing stations. Co-FRUIT models the activities of individual workers, while using AI and robots to demonstrate a cost-effective and efficient collaborative harvesting solution that achieves a step change in productivity in soft-fruit harvesting and helping to address welldocumented labour shortages. Speaking about the success enjoyed by the University's academics, Professor Simon Pearson, Director of the Lincoln Institute for Agri-Food Technology, said: "We're delighted that our expertise in these areas has been recognised through this funding. Having four projects awarded funding shows the strength and breadth of knowledge here at the Lincoln Institute for Agri-Food Technology and reaffirms the role we play in supporting productivity, efficiency, and sustainability through research and technology. "It's also a recognition of our collaborative approach; by working with industry partners, our academics have been able to develop a comprehensive range of projects that look to provide groundbreaking solutions to real world issues."
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Royal Highland Show partners with Scottish brewer Innis & Gunn T
he Royal Highland Show has announced Innis & Gunn as their new brewery partner and principal beer supplier.
Innis & Gunn beers will be served at over 20 bars throughout the Royal Highland Show, which takes place from 23rd-26th June and is expected to welcome in the region of 200,000 visitors. Both the Royal Highland Show and Innis & Gunn are aligned in their motivation to champion Scottish producers, supporting the industry and the country's wider economy. The new partnership will allow the ethos of the Royal Highland Show to extend to the Showground bars, with Scottish beers available to be enjoyed for the first time. Iain Green of Corskie Farm in Moray, is a RHASS member and exhibitor of cattle and sheep at the show. His farm supplies barley to the Crisp Malting Group who in turn supply it malted to Innis & Gunn. Iain is looking forward to sampling the awardwinning Innis & Gunn beer, made from his own barley, when he visits the Show
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this year! Iain said: It is great to see Scottish produce come to the fore at the Highland. As a showcase for the best in food, forming and rural life, it is field to pint at its best!" Headquartered in Edinburgh and with their own brewery in Perth, Innis & Gunn have grown to become one of the biggest independent brewers in the UK, exporting to over 20 countries around the globe. Innis & Gunn work with various Scottish suppliers to create their multiaward-winning beers, with malts sourced in Scotland, barley malted in Alloa and spent grains collected by local farmers for use as cattle feed. The multi-award-winning Scottish beers available at the 2022 Royal Highland Show will include Scotland's number one craft beer, Innis & Gunn 4.6% Lager, Session IPA, Mangoes on the Run and Innis & Gunn 0.0% Lager. Inveralmond's Ossian Smooth Flow and new Ossian Oatmeal Stout will also be available. Additionally, Innis & Gunn will work with their partner C&C Group to offer wines, spirits, cider, and Tennent's Light. The Royal Highland and
Agricultural Society of Scotland (RHASS) organise the Royal Highland Show. RHASS Director of Operations, Mark Currie, commented: "We are delighted to partner with Innis & Gunn this year in celebration of an exceptional Scottish brand. "Their focus on Scottish provenance and commitment to local suppliers aligns well with the ethos of the Royal Highland Show, which is all about telling the story of the farm-to-fork journey and engaging visitors with this process." Dougal Gunn Sharp, Innis & Gunn Founder and Master Brewer said: "The new partnership between Innis & Gunn and the Royal Highland Show is an excellent match. The event showcases and celebrates the best that the country has to offer and our multi-award-winning beers, brewed in Scotland using Scottish ingredients, perfectly align with this. "I am thrilled that for the first time, attendees at the Royal Highland Show will be able to enjoy Scottish beers, from a quality producer who actively champions and supports their industry. Every pint of Innis & Gunn beer consumed at the Show will ultimately support the sector in return, which gives all the more reason to enjoy." Supported by Royal Bank of Scotland, the Royal Highland Show will take place at the Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston, Edinburgh, on 23-26 June 2022. Tickets, including for car parking, must be pre-purchased online this year and no tickets will be available to buy on the gate. Tickets are limited in number this year with sell out days anticipated, so it is advised to purchase early. For further information and to purchase tickets please visit www.royalhighlandshow.org.
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Sustainable Agrifac factory conquers worldwide delivery problems C
How Agrifac contributes to a more efficient supply chain with LEAN management and sustainability ompletely energy neutral and making maximum use of natural energy sources, among which 5,000 m2 solar panels, that is how Agrifac gained the highest score of ‘Outstanding’ in the BREAAM quality label in 2018. Four years later, this unique and local way of producing self-propelled crop sprayers and beet harvesters, is not only paid off in sustainability, but also in a supply chain which is less vulnerable to the worldwide delivery problems. “With the world's population growing by the day, we must ensure that cultivated land is used in a way that increases food
crop yields in order to adequately feed everyone on a global scale. It is good to see that our factory is capable to handle adhoc market movements and specifically delivery issues, which are so common at the moment” says Frans Apeldoorn, Chief Operations Officer at Agrifac. At Agrifac, all machines are developed according to the unique 4E for growers concept, meaning that 1) efficiency, 2) economy, 3) ergonomy and 4) ecology are at the basis of everything we do. Our factory is completely designed upon these 4E’s and works according to the LEAN principle. At the moment, we can see that, despite all the issues in the world, our supply chain is capable of fulfilling all orders for all our machines.
Wheat breeder joins the team at Angus Wheat Consultants ngus Wheat Consultants (AWC) has appointed David Lloyd as senior wheat breeder to join their team based at Woolpit, Suffolk. Dr Lloyd graduated from Royal Holloway, University of London in biology, then moved to the University of Nottingham to earn his PhD, and has held a series of research posts including Rothamsted Research, the John Innes Centre and Durham University. He joins AWC from Syngenta Seeds where he ran the field nursery team before joining the company's germplasm development team. "My conventional and hybrid wheat breeding work in research and commercial roles will bring a new dimension to the AWC team and will build on my experience in both field and laboratory selection environments," he explains. "It has never been more important that the UK continues to develop new genetics for the future, and I look forward working with Bill Angus and the AWC team to be part of that future."
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Contact your nearest dealer: Agratech NW Ltd Unit 8 Dale Mill Burnley Road East Lancashire BB4 9HU 01706 211399 www.agratech.co.uk
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Hydraulic sided bale trailer increases safety and efficiency ne of the first HM cagesided bale trailers has been put straight to work on an Essex farm ferrying straw from the surrounding area into a biomass boiler in a safer and more efficient manner.
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Adam Brown and Ben Parker, and the new poultry operation was installed on land around Great Oakley, some fifteen or so miles from the furthest combinable field producing the bales. “It was clear that the trailers we had on the farm to cart straw weren’t going to cope with the increased workload provided by the straw-powered boiler and the continuous securing of loads would take up valuable time,” says Mr Brown. “We employ a contractor to bale, chase and stack the bales by the roadside, but it is then down to us to transport the bales to the burner on a twice-weekly basis, so spending a lot of time on the road is a big factor.”
Ben Parker and Adam Brown The installation of a straw-powered biomass boiler to keep 90,000 chickens warm threw up some logistical implications for Hamford Farming, not least because his current selection of ageing trailers wasn’t reliable enough for transporting regular loads of bales from the field to the burner, quickly and safely. Hamford Farming in Essex is run by 22 |
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Hamford Farming already owned a HM Trailers Hook Lift unit that was in use nearly every day on the farm, so contacted the company about building a Hydraulic Bale Trailer (HBT) unit that was suited to his needs. “As a business we were repairing and maintaining multiple second-hand trailers, but once the Hook Lift arrived, we managed to slim down our fleet considerably and only had one set of wheels to take care of.”
Bespoke build One of the key factors in choosing HM was the company’s flexibility during the initial purchase conversations and the early build stages. It was essential for the trailer to negotiate a low bridge in the local area, which meant it had to be able
to sneak under a 4.05m high gap when fully loaded. “We contacted a couple of trailer companies about building us a bale trailer with squeeze sides that could fit under our low bridge, but HM were the only ones that seemed genuinely willing to take it on and up for the challenge. “It was paramount to be able to cart bales under this bridge as the alternative adds considerable journey time and means we are driving through more urban areas, so this was something we were keen to avoid with twice weekly www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
| Arable “This was exactly what we needed but we were still very cautious when we took it under the bridge for the first time. To be fair to the HM engineers, they have got it spot on and it does fit under the with an inch or so to spare. “We must take it slowly but being able to take this route, rather than the longer one, has increased efficiencies drastically.” Safety is paramount Along with the bespoke bed, Mr Brown was offered the chance to add squeeze sides to the trailer for an extra £5,000. He took the view that over the lifespan of the trailer, the time saved in securing each load and the near misses that will now be avoided more than justify the investment. “Safety is at the forefront of everything we do, especially when it comes to being on the road, and with the high spec running gear, we know it is as safe as it can be.” This is also the case when it comes to loading the trailer as the cage sides not only save time as there is no straps or ropes to secure, but safety is also improved. “We’ve all done it, started securing the loaded end of the trailer with straps while a colleague continues to finish stacking the bales on the other end with the loader. However, it only takes one wrong move from the loader operator and the consequences aren’t worth thinking about,” says Mr Brown. “The beauty of the caged sides is that they work independently, so one or both sides can be lowered to beneath the bed for loading the bales. It also means that once the tailer is loaded, it takes around 10 seconds to secure every bale before heading out onto the road.” Having the hydraulic cage sides also brings wider benefits as the loader operator can take time to make sure the load is positioned safely on the bed, as there is no extra time needed to secure the bales down with straps. journeys,” says Mr Brown. The team at HM took on the task and came up with a solution that consisted of a Durbar floor bed construction with notches in it for the flotation tyres to sit, that reduced the height of the bed even further. Mr Brown took delivery of the 32ft HBT16 trailer in late 2021, that was suited to carry three high 900mm square bales.
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While the sides were an extra cost on top of the standard trailer unit, the saving in time by not having to strap loads down is starting to pay back immediately. “After a quick calculation, we reckon that strapping and unstrapping a trailer could take as long as one hour, which is dead time in the grand scheme of it. At £50/ hour for an operator and tractor, this soon adds up and doesn’t take long to pay back the investment in the hydraulic
sides. “This is also without the faff of rolling up straps and making sure ratchets are in working order – these are the sorts of items that tend to be easily lost or driven over. As the bales move during transport, straps would easily work loose and become insecure, with the caged sides, there is no risk of this,” adds Mr Brown. High spec The trailer is a high spec unit and Mr Brown was keen to make sure that the significant investment he was about to sanction was going to keep going for the next couple of decades. “We brought the trailer as a long-term investment, and we expect it to do 20 years on the farm. The work is mainly on the road, and I see no reason why with regular maintenance that the unit shouldn’t offer a solid length of service. “HM trailers are well-built; the Hook Lift is HGV spec and all the grain trailers we have hired in the past have been solidly constructed and never given any issues, so the bale trailer should be no different.” One of the key additions to the HBT was keeping the wheels the same size as the Hook Lift chassis already on the farm, as this means there is only one set of wheels and brakes to keep in stock. “When we ran multiple trailers, we were forever ordering in different parts and keeping various tyre sizes in stock just in case. Now we have one set of tyres and one set of brakes across both HM models, so it makes planning maintenance and ordering parts so much simpler. “We added a big toolbox, lashing points should we ever need them, LED lights for travelling at night and during winter, and it only has air brakes due to all the road work it does. We don’t have any tractors without air braking capabilities and when transporting bales on the road, I wouldn’t want anyone to travel with standard hydraulic brakes.” June 2022 | Farming Monthly |
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Cereal choices for autumn 2022 ow into early summer, we look ahead with Hutchinsons National Seed Manager David Bouch, to autumn 2022 and some of the varietal considerations to be made.
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Group 4 wheats see LG Skyscraper with 10% of the market and being challenged by newcomer RGT Bairstow with a step up in septoria resistance compared to the market leader. Both need a robust PGR programme. Saki will still have support, especially where early drilled.
Winter wheat There are no dramatic changes in this sector in my view. Skyfall, Zyatt, Crusoe and Illustrious for the NABIM Group 1 market with Crusoe being the preferred quality and the best converter of Nitrogen to protein. (Milling premiums are currently an unknown quantity) I would advise that growing Group one wheats is only suited to those who can consistently produce full spec, otherwise the risks are too high. Group 2 will remain in the clutch of KWS Extase with its very high untreated yield and a realistic end market. Mayflower, new to the AHDB list, offers excellent untreated yield, but is behind Extase when treated scores are considered. Group 3 has several new additions, although I believe that LG Astronomer still has the best all -round package. Not the highest yield, but sufficient, given its excellent grain quality and good agronomics. KWS Guium is now the highest yielding Group 3, but I would like it to have better septoria resistance. RGT Rashid has the best septoria score in the sector but offers no yield advantage over LG Astronomer. Both Rashid and Guium have OWBM resistance.
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In the hard endosperm group, the two new varieties added offer high yield with strong disease and OWBM resistance. Champion is the highest yielding variety on the list. It will find strong demand, with limited seed supply. KWS Dawsum has outstanding grain quality with a bushel weight of nearly 80 and a Hagberg over 300. When this is coupled with a very good agronomic package (only Extase has higher untreated yield) and good standing ability, it will find a big market. Dawsum does not have OWBM resistance like Champion, but this should not hold it back, as it is also the highest yielding variety in the West. Gleam, SY Insitor and Graham will undoubtedly remain popular, whilst newcomer LG Typhoon will attract support and interest with a consistent yield in all regions and very strong agronomics. Winter barley Not many additions to the AHDB winter barley list offer an improvement on last year. Hyvido choices should be relatively straight forward with Kingsbarn, Thunderbolt and Belmont being logical selections, however Javelin can still offer
an alternative. Concerns about its higher brackling score are certainly understood, but with its earlier ripening than its competitors and its outstanding Rhynchosporium score it should not be discounted. Moving onto conventional six rows, newcomer KWS Feeris presents this option with the bonus of BYDV tolerance coupled with good bushel weight and very low screenings. Finally, the two row barleys are a very simple choice. Craft and Electrum remain the preferred malting varieties with the end users and in the feed market its KWS Tardis, Bolton, Bordeaux and LG Lightning, in that order, with Tardis being the outstanding choice. Winter Oats and Hybrid Rye Mascani remains the most popular variety with oat millers and growers, being less susceptible to mildew than most recommended varieties and with moderate resistance to crown rust. RGT Southwark provides the highest yield on the Recommended List, but the millers drive variety choice. Hybrid Rye builds in popularity, with high grain yields competing with many second wheats, high blackgrass suppression, high straw yield, excellent drought tolerance and developing end markets. Varieties Poseidon, Helltop, SU Performer, Serafino and Tayo are key options for autumn 2022.
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LG ASTRONOMER IS FULL OF POTENTIAL FOR HAMPSHIRE FARMER W ith its strong disease resistance, Hants farmer Robert Brine hopes LG Astronomer could prove to be a more reliable and a potentially lower input Group 3 addition to the 1,200 ha arable operation at Moundsmere Farming Company.
sown between the 9 to 12 October, at seed rates of 325/m2 and 340/m2 respectively, using a minimal noninversion tillage system, based on one or two passes with a Köckerling tined cultivator. Crops established strongly and came through last winter looking very well, Mr
Mr Brine is growing 40 ha of LG Astronomer for the first time this season, alongside another 58 ha of LG Illuminate, as he seeks to restore his faith in Group 3 varieties. “Wheat is the mainstay of our varied rotation,” he explains. “We always put a decent percentage down to milling varieties, especially now that the newer ones are more reliable yield-wise, and there’s usually a reasonable amount of Group 4s. Group 3s have typically made up the remainder, but recently these have let us down a bit in terms of disease pressure.
Several varieties struggled with disease and poor tillering in a challenging 2021 season, but both LG Astronomer and LG Illuminate were among those that fared better, giving Mr Brine confidence to grow a larger area of them for the coming harvest. Showing good potential The 40 ha of LG Astronomer follows winter beans, while his LG Illuminate is behind oilseed rape. Most crops were www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
At T1, LG Astronomer received Ascra Xpro, while LG Illuminate was treated with Revystar XE (fluxapyroxad + Mefentrifluconazole) plus folpet. Both received Univoq (fenpicoxamid + prothioconazole) as the T2 flag leaf fungicide, while the T3 will depend on weather and yield potential. Recognising wider benefits Mr Brine says the resistance to Orange Wheat Blossom Midge (OWBM) in LG Astronomer and other LG varieties, is a particular benefit at Moundsmere, especially as the business moves away from using insecticides. “Across the whole farm, we are moving more towards farming in a way that maximises the use of beneficial species, so insecticides are only ever used as an absolute last resort,” he says.
“However, we liked the look of LG Astronomer and decided to give it a try, especially as its high disease scores on the AHDB Recommended List could make it a bit cheaper to grow.” A small area was grown in a variety trial hosted on the farm last season, featuring 60m x 12m plots of more than 20 varieties from different breeders, all set within a field of LG Illuminate. “The variety trial is something we like to do every season, just as a bit of an experiment to see which varieties perform best on our farm. Everything is treated in exactly the same way as the rest of the farm.”
saving on fungicides this season, as no T0 was applied. “We applied an early tebuconazole to the LG Illuminate at T0, but the LG Astronomer didn’t need anything.”
That environmental focus most recently saw the farm join an extensive Mid Tier stewardship scheme, featuring a range of options, including pollen and nectar mixes, winter bird food, cover cropping and overwinter stubbles. Brine recalls. Dry weather throughout April was a concern, but timely applications of digestate provided a useful boost to spring growth and greening. The LG Illuminate received digestate at the first main nitrogen timing in late February, while for LG Astronomer, it replaced the second main fertiliser dose in April. “The digestate really kicked crops into gear and both varieties look like they have very good potential at this moment in time.” The combination of a dry April and LG Astronomer’s strong RL scores for Septoria (6.8 on the three-year rating) and rust (8 for yellow and brown rust), did allow Mr Brine to make a slight
Finally, Mr Brine also recognises the importance of LG Astronomer’s good standing power and resistance to sprouting, reflected by it having the highest scores for these characteristics among all Group 3s on the RL. “We haven’t had problems with wheat on the ground for many years, but sprouting has been an issue for some wheats in the past, so it’s definitely a benefit of the LG varieties. Looking ahead to next season, he says final varietal decisions will depend on how crops perform at harvest, but for now at least, it is “so far, so good”.
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Rain gauge winner set to make crop savings
he British weather is notoriously capricious, so having real-time information on rainfall and temperature can help farmers to reduce inputs and improve efficiencies. And one lucky producer in North Yorkshire recently won a state-of-the-art connected weather gauge – so how does he see it helping on his farm? Sitting north of the Cleveland Hills and south of the River Tees in North Yorkshire, the rain clouds are often spent before they reach Robert Shepherd’s lowland arable farm.
it in a cup can be tricky and prone to human error. However, as the winner of a Sencrop Raincrop weather station, Mr Shepherd will now be able to measure rainfall consistently and remotely, better informing decisions concerning crops on his farm.
Keeping track of rainfall using conventional methods such as collecting
It will also be interesting to use the Raincrop rain gauge – which gives real-
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“I like to experiment with arable crops and if I know the exact rainfall, I try to get away with using fewer if not all fungicides. I have grown crops successfully without fungicides but every year is different. The weather here is very variable,” says Mr Shepherd.
time weather updates from a field on his farm - to compare weather patterns yearon-year, says Mr Shepherd. “We had a very wet May last year leading to some take-all in our second wheats. In the past we’ve had nothing to enable us to look back at weather patterns. But they could help us mitigate against the severity of take-all, perhaps through variety choice.” Mr Shepherd farms 68ha at Burnt House Farm, Hutton Rudby. His rotation comprises first and second winter wheats, winter barley, oilseed rape (OSR) and some grassland. Soil type is heavy clay. First wheat yields are typically 10t/ha and oilseed rape, 5t/ha. Land is min-tilled with a Sumo trio, followed by establishing the crop with a www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
| Arable Vaderstad drill. But if ploughing is necessary, he will go down that route. He is keen to make the most of varietal resistance and reduce inputs, doing onfarm tramline trials to compare treatments and varieties. Mr Shepherd grows wheat varieties KWS Dawsum, Skyscraper, SY Insitor, KWS Parkin, Costello and Saki. His winter barley varieties include Bolton, Cassia and Barakooda and OSR varieties, Aurelia, Acacia and Aviron. The latter is one of the first OSR hybrids to feature the N-Flex gene, said to allow the crop to use available nitrogen in the soil more efficiently.
enterprises, where weather at the home farm, for example, may be very different to that in fields five or 10 miles away. “It may be that they decide to deploy a team of operatives to a distant site based on the weather at home which could waste time and money. If they could check the Sencrop mobile app [which allows collection and analysis of data from their station and others around it] first and discover that the weather was unfavourable, it would save time and money.
Overall, he is looking to reduce nitrogen use and achieve a more balanced soil ecosystem and wants to try putting bugs in the soil to fix nitrogen. “We are not doing it any favours by plastering on artificial nitrogen.
”As well as rainfall, the device can also measure temperature, which will help when making decisions over herbicide timings, says Mr Shepherd. “If there has been a frost or the temperature is low, you wouldn’t go with a big tank mix the next morning or you could damage the crop. Similarly, if the temperature is higher than 20⁰C you wouldn’t really want to spray.”
”As well as on his own farm, Mr Shepherd also sees a role for the rain gauge on larger arable farming
It is early days for the Sencrop rain gauge on Mr Shepherd’s farm, but he is looking forward to finding out how it can
help him develop his arable enterprise. “At the moment we use a cup to measure rain and tip it out but this should be a lot more thorough.” Sencrop also recently launched new features which Mr Shepherd will be able to explore. It has joined forces with the Information System for Integrated Plant production (ISIP) to provide bespoke disease forecasting for farmers based on pooled and individual data. Taking into account local temperature, humidity and precipitation, the system will predict risk levels for diseases affecting winter wheat, barley, rye, triticale and spring barley between 15 February and 30 June. This will enable farmers to react to times of high disease pressure and protect crop quality and yield. •
For more information visit www.sencrop.com/uk
NRM invests in increased organic matter testing capacity to support farmers with Sustainable Farming Incentive eligibility RM has invested in new laboratory equipment to help deal with the expected increase in demand for soil organic matter (SOM) analysis from farmers aiming to qualify for the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI).
currently two standards available with different levels and payments, and each has differing expectations. A third advanced option is expected from DEFRA in due course. To be eligible for the scheme, evidence of soil organic matter analysis within the last five years must be provided.
‘Many farmers carry out soil testing every four years, but a lot of standard soil testing does not include soil organic matter analysis,’ said Rory Geldard, Business Development Manager at NRM. ‘The SFI requires SOM data as evidence of eligibility. So, just because farmers have had soil testing done on their farms in the last four years, that doesn’t mean they will be qualified for the scheme. In fact, only 10% of the soil analysis we have undertaken in the past year has included SOM. We have seen an increase in these samples coming in recently as a result of the Incentive, reflecting growing interest in sustainable farming practices.’
‘We have also updated our SOM analysis report with greater results interpretation to help farmers measure their organic matter,’ continued Rory. ‘There are two levels for the SFI; introductory and intermediate, with an option for arable and grassland in both. If you want to take part, every field you enter must have its organic matter measured, but there are no guidelines on which method you should use. At NRM, we have three industry recognised options that include organic matter analysis to suit your requirements and guarantee you entry into the scheme. SFI submissions will be open from late June 2022, so we recommend getting your SOM tested now so you can be ready.’
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The SFI aims to help farmers in England improve food production with environmentally sustainable land management practices. There are
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NRM offers three different analysis options: Loss on Ignition (LOI) and DUMAS, which are simple assessments
of SOM with some interpretation depending on your field type, and CarbonCheck, a comprehensive soil analysis service that includes a full range of soil tests. These include organic matter, C:N ratio, total nitrogen, total carbon, inorganic carbon, carbonate classification and bulk density. There is also an add-on option for Active Carbon for growers working to improve soil health. ‘Any of our SOM tests will qualify farmers for the SFI, but if they wish to take advantage of voluntary carbon markets, they will require up-to-date carbon data,’ concludes Rory. ‘This means CarbonCheck is the best option as it allows growers to capitalise on carbon opportunities.’ ‘At Cawood, we are continually improving our services to meet new and evolving customer needs,’ said Simon Parrington, Group Chief Executive Officer of Cawood. ‘The introduction of the SFI is an opportunity for farmers and our investment in new equipment and improved reporting means we can support them with their eligibility requirements.’
June 2022 | Farming Monthly |
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| Grain
Spare Parts and Support When You Need It
W
e understand how important harvest time is and how critical it is that you can get quick responses on spare parts and your support questions answered rapidly.
That’s why at Perry of Oakley we have a
large range of parts in stock ready to support you. The fact that Perrys are based in the UK and design & manufacture all their own grain drying and handling machines in-house means it’s much easier to provide that important swift response. It’s not unusual for the MD, David Perry, to
come into the factory on a Sunday to package up some spares to be collected that same day by a farmer in need. Perrys have a 7 person technical support team, with ~130 years experience in the trade between them, on hand to help with your support queries when problems occur. The phone line is manned evenings and weekends when you need us most. For our customers with remotely accessible PLC panels our team can tap into the system to help diagnose the problem and get you back up and running quickly. While this spares and support work is going on the rest of the factory are still busy designing and manufacturing our full range of driers, handling and storage for all the ongoing projects. Perrys can provide everything from single machines to larger grain facilities working in partnership with your local dealer. Get in touch today to find out more about Perry of Oakley Ltd. and our range of drying & handling equipment call +44 (0)1404 890300 or email sales@perryofoakley.co.uk. You can also find a full list of products and services at www.perryofoakley.co.uk
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Farming Monthly | June 2022
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The UK’s Most Experienced Manufacturer of Grain www.farmingmonthly.co.uk 29 June 2022 | Farming Monthly | Drying, Handling & Storage Equipment
Breedr launches £10m cashflow fund for farmers
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reedr is launching a new funding product, designed to help farmers purchase livestock and other inputs without securing borrowing on
fixed assets. The £10m Breedr Cashflow fund can also free up capital to invest in infrastructure, based on the value of livestock on the farm. “As a farmer I know that this year we’ve seen huge price inflation, so many are struggling with cashflow, even though beef and lamb prices are the highest in generations,” explains Ian Wheal, CEO of Breedr. “We have now raised a £10m fund which we are prepared to lend to farmers who have a track record of recording with us. We want to support all farmers including beef, sheep, new entrants, tenants, growers, finishers and supply chains.” The free Breedr app, which was launched in 2019, now has 4,000 users and over 200,000 registered animals. It allows for easy recording of weights, movements, breeding information and medicine usage. And it has easy-to-read analytics reports to help farmers improve the efficiency, productivity and profitability of their businesses.
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Livestock farming is notoriously unpredictable and keeping cash flowing can be a challenge, says Mr Wheal. “Banks generally only fund against fixed assets like land and buildings, but we recognise that not only are your animals are a valuable asset in themselves, they grow in value every day.”
Farmers who have weighed their animals and recorded other basic information about their cattle on the free app are eligible to apply for funding against the value of their animals, he adds. “We know that farmers who weigh often and record their medicines on Breedr are good farmers. By seeing this data being added to the system we can release cash against them, with rapid approval so you can get on with the business of farming.” Breedr Cashflow will provide up to 80% of the value of cattle or sheep - either those which a farmer plans to purchase or already has on the farm. It charges a flat fee per head per day which is only repayable at the point of sale. No periodic payments are required. Ian Davies runs the 65ha upland Garth Fach Farm, near Llanidloes, Powys – and he has used the Breedr app and Cashflow option to help achieve his farm’s potential.
Running predominantly Aberdeen Angus beef cattle and a flock of sheep, he records his livestock details in the app, giving him access to finance secured on his animals and freeing up cashflow on the farm.
“Before using the Cashflow system we budgeted to buy only 60 cattle each year because any lump sum tied up would be too great a financial risk,” he says. But, knowing he can meet bills mid-season using Cashflow if necessary, means he has the security to double his store cattle numbers to 120 animals. “It is invaluable in mid-season knowing that it is possible to use cattle to smooth out cashflow while still retaining them on farm,” he says. “I’ve been using Breedr for a few years now and when I called the team they were immediately supportive. They quickly allowed me to unlock the cash in a batch of calves that were approaching weaning, which meant I can take them through to finish where I’m going to have a higher margin.” Farmers who want to access Cashflow should sign up to the free livestock app and then contact the trading team using the inapp tools. Find out more at www.Breedr.co.
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Virgin Money launches UK’s first dedicated fund to help farmers move to net zero
•£200m Agri E Fund is the only fund dedicated to supporting UK farmers with green loans •Loans will have 0% arrangement fees when borrowing to invest in emission-reducing initiatives •Fund also encourages take up of carbon audits which help farmers reduce costs and emissions irgin Money has launched a new £200m fund to support farmers in their transition to net zero, by offering lower cost loans that can be used to invest in changes which reduce on-farm emissions. The Agri E Fund is the first fund offered in the UK dedicated to supporting farmers with the investment and carbon audits required to help them achieve their net zero target.
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economy to transition to net zero. The sector has set itself the ambitious goal of reaching net zero greenhouse gas emissions across the sector in England and Wales by 20401. Agriculture is one of Virgin Money’s biggest business sectors which it has supported over many years. In a recent survey2 of its agricultural customers, 72% of respondents said they wanted to see specialist banking
report on a farm’s carbon outputs, highlighting inefficiencies on the farm and ways to do things differently, both to lower costs and reduce carbon emissions. According to the bank’s survey, only 35% of farming businesses have completed a carbon audit, and Virgin Money has been encouraging customers to undertake a carbon audit so they can start to move towards net zero at an early stage. Brian Richardson, Head of Agriculture at Virgin Money said: “Farmers need to be proactive in adjusting their businesses to a low carbon future. While many farmers are working towards their net zero targets, we know from our research that there are many who know what they’ve got to do, they just aren’t sure how to go about it. By providing lower cost finance, our new Agri E Fund is providing targeted support to help agri-businesses make the transition and enable investment in reducing and capturing carbon emissions. “We have a long history of supporting the agriculture sector through periods of change and are committed to working closely with our farming customers to help them on their journey to net zero.”
Loans are available with 0% arrangement fees when a farmer completes a carbon audit and is borrowing over £50k to invest in emission reducing initiatives, like renewable energy, energy efficiency initiatives or activities that reduce greenhouse gases. The agriculture sector has a key part to play in the UK’s transition to a net zero economy. While farming contributes approximately ten per cent of the UK’s carbon emissions, the significant land resource within agriculture provides the opportunity to capture and store carbon over and above the sector’s level of emissions, helping to enable the wider
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products tailored towards sustainability, and 82% said that reducing climate emissions was important to improving their sustainability. The survey also revealed that the marketplace is helping to drive the pace of change, with almost a quarter (22%) of farming businesses saying they had been asked by their own customers to provide evidence of their actions to reduce carbon emissions. The Agri E Fund also encourages the uptake of carbon audits, which are becoming increasingly important in the agriculture supply chain, by making the completion of one a condition of the loan. A carbon audit produces a comprehensive
Virgin Money has partnered with Carbon Metrics, a consultancy which aims to help rural businesses understand emissions management and auditing more easily, to produce an Agriculture Net Zero Report. This guide is a tool to help farmers understand the background to climate change specifically relating to agriculture, what it means for the industry and how they can start to adapt their businesses to meet the challenge and plan their own business journey towards net zero. Further information on the Agri E Fund and the Net Zero Report is available at https://uk.virginmoney.com/brightermoney/helping-farmers-create-agreener-future/
June 2022 | Farming Monthly |
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| Potatoes | Potatoes & Root Crops
Sustainable Potato Sprout Control
•
Is a naturally occurring product, in widespread use in the food industry,
•
Is approved for use on organic potato crops,
•
Has no harvest interval or MRL,
•
Does not leave persistent residues in the fabric of stores and boxes used for storage,
•
And is therefore suitable for use in stores, which may subsequently be used for the storage of other crops or seed potatoes,• Is effective at higher storage temperatures, reducing the risk of acrylamide development when crop is processed,
•
Sequesters carbon during growth, removing 1t of CO2 for every 1,000t of potatoes treated,
•
And should be a component of the sustainability plan for every farm and every customer; effectively carbon neutral.
Biox-M is the only 100% natural and sustainable sprout control for potatoes. he cost of growing potatoes is going up sharply, with fertiliser and energy prices increasing by multiples not just by small percentages. And part of that increase will be felt in increasing electricity costs for refrigerated storage of potatoes.
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For many growers, the cost of electricity has (or will shortly) increase by up to three times. And the war in Ukraine means that it is likely to rise further. In an inflationary world we are unlikely to see end users just increase the price paid for stored crop to match the increase in costs. Growers and store managers are going to have to manage the tools at their disposal more carefully. One of those tools is the target storage temperature. Typically, stores of potatoes destined for the fresh market will be stored at 2 to 3 deegrees. Sprout growth is minimised, and chemical intervention is only required for long-season storage or of varieties, such as King Edward, which
have particularly low dormancy. Crops destined for processing markets will be stored at between 6 and 10 deegrees depending on the end use. And these target temperatures have, in many cases, been reduced in the last couple of seasons. The loss of CIPC, and uncertainty about the efficacy of alternative treatments, saw many store managers drop the target temperatures as an extra measure of insurance. The extra electricity expense cost for that degree or more was justified - to be on the safe side. Two years on and Biox-M is well understood and has proved its efficacy. Sprout control is well is increasingly well-managed. What is perhaps less well appreciated is the fact that Biox- M, as a volatile compound, works better at higher temperatures. It has positive characteristics which should encourage store keepers to consider increasing the target store temperature, while continuing to maintain excellent sprout control.
The cost of electricity to maintain a store at 2 or 7 deegrees will vary with the volume of the store, insulation quality and management regime. It is an increasingly important factor in the mix, and growers would do well to calculate the cost of that extra degree or two. In addition, potatoes are at their most metabolically comfortable when stored at around 5 deegrees. Respiration is at its lowest, and thus weight loss will be less over the period of storage. Growers are aware that they put more weight into store than they take out subsequently. Fan running times, target temperatures, managing respiration are all factors which can be managed to reduce cost, or increase weight sold. Managing for reduced weight loss and reduced electricity cost in conjunction with BioxM is an area of significant research across the major potato producing regions of Europe. And the price of Biox-M is not expected to increase for the 2022 storage season.
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MAPP 16021 www.junopp.com June 2022 | Farming Monthly |
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| Potatoes & Root Crops
GRIMME UK AND HAITH REVEAL THEIR VISION FOR OPTICAL SORTING
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RIMME UK and Haith Group have revealed their latest major joint project an innovative mobile optical sorter.
Designed to automate the removal of stone, clod and foreign debris from potatoes and help growers cope with labour shortages, demonstrations of the new PRO Sort are now being organised. At the heart of the PRO Sort is a TOMRA 3A optical sorter which is capable of handling up to 100 tonnes per hour with high levels of accuracy. The TOMRA 3A employs Near InfraRed multi-spectral sensors for an unobstructed assessment of every object 'in flight', seamlessly identifying between potatoes and foreign material. As well as debris, the 3A's colour sensors can also detect green potatoes, which like the debris, are removed at the end of the conveyor belt by intelligent finger ejectors. As the PRO Sort is a modular unit, it can be used either in the field or on a farm and be easily integrated into a new or existing grading line.
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Farming Monthly | June 2022
"We have developed the PRO Sort in response to the increasing number of growers who are finding it incredibly difficult to find people to sort and pick their crop before it goes into store or is delivered to processors," says Duane Hill, Haith's managing director. "We have a proven track record of developing innovative mobile washing and grading equipment and having integrated the TOMRA 3A into many of our grading projects, it was logical to put it at the heart of this unit." By working in partnership on the development of the PRO Sort, Haith and GRIMME have ensured that the new unit can be used in conjunction with the GRIMME RH receiving hopper to transfer potatoes into store and the GRIMME Cleanloader. "Our collaboration with Haith is all about developing complete solutions that help our customers do things better," says GRIMME UK Ltd.'s managing director, Patrick Graf Grote. "The PRO Sort is a perfect example of this ambition. We have developed a solution that will save growers both time and money and allow them to operate efficiently despite the widely reported labour shortage. The PRO Sort can be used as a standalone
machine, combined with our receiving hopper and CleanLoader, or added easily to a Haith line. Having spoken to several customers about the PRO product line, we are confident it will be very well received and the demonstration days later in the year will be very popular." Growers wanting to see the PRO Sort in action or find out more about it before the Autumn demonstrations can contact either Haith or GRIMME on 01302 831 911 / sales@haith.co.uk or 01205 822 300 / sales@grimme.co.uk Haith and GRIMME UK entered into a strategic working agreement in 2020 to deliver complete solutions to their customers, allowing them to source vegetable handling equipment and infield root crop and vegetable machinery easily and efficiently. As well as working to develop the PRO Sort, Haith and GRIMME UK have recently been undertaking technical training to allow the sales team and product specialists at both companies to advise their customers on the other company's products, details of which can be found at www.haith.co.uk and www.grimme.com/uk
www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
| Potatoes & Root Crops
DANISH POTATO FARMERS TOUR ANGUS
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embers of a Danish farmers co-operative experienced a packed 3day tour of the Angus potato industry recently.
The delegates were members of KMC, a co-operative owned by potato farmers from throughout Denmark who specialise in growing 30,000ha of potatoes for starch production. They enjoyed a packed itinerary organised and hosted by SoilEssentials, the Forfar based precision farming technology company. Charlotte Hou from KMC commented: "For more than 80 years, we have been growing, developing, and producing potato-based ingredients for the global food industry - serving more than 80 countries across the globe." "We are always keen to learn of new innovation in the industry, and our tour of Angus has given us that, whilst also showing us the beautiful Scottish
countryside."
distilled into premium Scottish vodka.
There was no rest for the delegation as the tour began as soon as they landed in Aberdeen. Whisked off to enjoy the coastal route southwards passing Dunnottar Castle, taking them to their first stop at the newly opened Arbikie Distillery, overlooking Lunan Bay and followed by a neighbouring new business diversification at Upper Dysart Larder.
The third day of the tour included visits to the world-renowned James Hutton Institute at Dundee, lunch at Glamis Castle and a visit to Scottish Agronomy, which is itself a farmer owned co-op.
Day two of the tour saw the group visit SoilEssentials to learn about the latest in precision technology, the Scanstone factory to see innovative soil preparation and root crop harvesting machinery under construction and Ogilvy Distillery to learn how locally grown potatoes are
Jim Wilson, Managing Director at SoilEssentials commented: "It was a pleasure for us to host the KMC delegation. We are in such a fabulous corner of Scotland for the potato industry, and it was great to be able to showcase that to overseas visitors. I would love to think that this will lead to stronger connections in future, in future projects and potentially increased business and trade too."
New EAMU expands disease control options in Carrots and Celeriac
odif, which contains cyprodinil and fludioxonil, has now been granted an approval of an Extension of Authorisation for Minor Use (EAMU) registration for use in carrots and celeriac.
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Manufactured by off-patent manufacturer Life Scientific, Modif is a reverse-engineered Switch, a WG which can be used for a range of diseases in fruit and vegetable crops as well as ornamental plant production. “This EAMU approval comes as welcome news as an additional option for vegetable growers for protection against sclerotinia and alternaria leaf blight,” says Ruth Stanley, Life Scientific’s UK country manager. “Life Scientific specialises in bringing high quality off-patent crop protection products to market with the goal of providing customers with better options to meet their plant protection needs, and this recent EAMU reflects the success of the approach.” The EAMU covers three applications in carrots at a rate of 0.8kg/ha, and should www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
be applied 7 days before harvest. In celeriac, only two treatments of 1.8kg/ha are recommended, and should be applied 14 days before harvest.
Modif’s activity includes controlling disease on peas and beans. Encouraged by the weather at the moment, these crops are experiencing high levels of powdery mildew. “Whilst there is no label claim for powdery mildew, as the result of a customer request we included Modif in a replicated field trial conducted by RAA labs in Lincolnshire, to determine the level of control of powdery mildew when used at two dose rates in crops of vining peas,” says Mrs Stanley.
the percentage control over untreated,” she adds. “The results demonstrated that at T1 + 7 days at 0.25kg/ha there was only 9.5% severity of powdery mildew versus 62.5% on the untreated. At T1 +14 days this was only just higher at 31.3%, whereas untreated showed a powdery mildew severity of 94.5%.
In late spring, peas and beans are susceptible to powdery mildew which shows as pale patches on the upper side of the leaf and the underside has grey or dark reddish mycelium.
“At the higher rate of 0.5kg/ha at T1+7 days levels of severity of powdery mildew were much reduced at 5.5% and at T1 +14 days at 21.3%, compared to 94.5% in the untreated.”
“One application was made at early flowering using dose rates of 0.25kg/ha and 0.5kg/ha. Assessments were made 7 and 14 days after application to show
For more information on this EAMU visit the Modif product information page on the Life Scientific website www.lifescientific.com/products/uk/modif June 2022 | Farming Monthly |
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| Potatoes & Root Crops
Stress factors add to Alternaria risk Stress factors set to hit potato crops over the coming weeks could increase the risk of Alternaria (early blight) outbreaks, warns Syngenta Technical Manager, Andy Cunningham. any crops are still suffering the adverse effects of exceptionally low rainfall this spring, while the hugely inflated cost of fertiliser has seen potato growers cut back nutritional inputs to the bare minimum.
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“Any agronomic factor that increases stress on the crop can act as a precursor for Alternaria infection, as well as the severity of the outbreak,” he advised. “Early season infection and subsequent loss of leaf area inevitably has a greater impact on yield.” With the onset of stress effects, Mr Cunningham believes growers should look to consider Alternaria protection earlier in their blight programme, as fungicide control of the pathogen must be applied preventatively. “Alternaria treatments have historically been focussed to start around the end of June or beginning of July,” he said. “Where growers have identified an
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Farming Monthly | June 2022
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| Potatoes & Root Crops
“That has been especially evident with the increasing impact of heat stress on potatoes. Enabling plants to be better prepared to cope with the adverse effects of heat stress with applications of the biostimulant, Quantis, could help mitigate the effects of other stress factors and reduce the crops’ susceptibility to Alternaria,” he added. Further Syngenta trials into these stress mitigating effects are planned for the 2022 season. Recent Alternaria research in Denmark, has suggested that while all cultivars in the trials were susceptible to Alternaria, the rate at which the infection developed in the foliage could indicate some varietal resistance. Later maturing varieties were typically, but not exclusively, more resistant to disease spread. increased risk of stress, or have historically suffered from Alternaria losses, however, that may need to be brought forward this season.”
particularly effective for blight control and giving control of all blight strains, including EU_36 inoculated in the trials.
To counter the Alternaria threat, Mr Cunningham advocated growers and agronomists utilise Amphore Plus through the primary risk period incorporating the strong late blight protection of mandipropamid with the Alternaria activity of difenoconazole.
Furthermore, where growers are using Revus in their blight control programme, as the most effective straight CAA group fungicide, the addition of mancozeb in the tank mix is a valuable resistance management strategy and adds potential Alternaria protection too, he pointed out.
“Using the pre-formulated combination delivers 20% more difenoconazole with each application to boost alternaria protection, compared to the maximum permissible rate of the active when applied as a straight product,” he added. Independent research by Eurofins in 2021 identified Amphore Plus as
Mr Cunningham also highlighted that the cumulative effects of multiple stresses can have greater effects on potatoes, even at relatively low levels. “Plants that are already performing suboptimally under stress from moisture or nutrient deficits, for example, can then be impacted badly by further pressures.
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Successive seasons reporting of UK Alternaria monitoring by NIAB, sponsored by Syngenta, has highlighted no significant varietal trends. It has, however, repeatedly shown that A. alternata has been the first early blight pathogen to hit potato crops, followed by later infections of A. solani. “That’s important because A. alternata can create multiple leaf lesions and damage, which could prove to be entry points for the more aggressive A solani,” advised Mr Cunningham. “It also validates why agronomists would choose to use difenoconazole first as an active against A. alternata, followed by Amistar later in the season for A. solani and green leaf area protection.”
June 2022 | Farming Monthly |
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| Potatoes & Root Crops
HOW TALENTED RONNIE’S CAREER GOES FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH WITH BRANSTON From packing potatoes on the factory production line to being promoted to a management role, business improvement officer Ronnie Wilkinson has enjoyed great success working for the UK’s largest potato supplier, Branston. Here he explains his progression, his role in ‘talent spotting’ others and his advice for those considering a career in the food business… usic fan Ronnie has enjoyed a number of roles since he joined Branston in 2012. He is based at the Lincoln site, just outside the village of Branston. The company handles 350,000 tonnes of potatoes every year.
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something I enjoyed and that kept me fit. I was really into working and keeping my mind healthy - when you're busy you stay mentally healthy, so I liked that.
Tell us about your early working life
The company asked if I was mechanically minded and interested in the machinery. It was a bit different back then, as we had to fix our own machines, so I jumped at the chance and got some training.
I started working behind the scenes at music festivals after my mum launched a recruitment agency supplying staff to events. I’d started out as a trainee car mechanic but wasn’t really happy and was advised at a careers event to choose a job that I would enjoy. I loved music and the festival work at places like T in the Park and Glastonbury was great - we were putting out barriers and looking after crowd health and safety. It was access all areas and I saw the likes of Kasabian and the Red Hot Chili Peppers. How did you go from music festivals to working at Branston’s potato factory? My personal circumstances changed, meaning it wasn’t possible to be on the road six months a year, and I realised that I needed a local job. I applied to be a production line operator at Branston and thought I would see how it went. I was packing and stacking on the lines - it was hard, physical work but it really suited me. I was quite fit back then - I'm not now! - and I was always at the gym. I realised that I was getting paid to do 38 |
Farming Monthly | June 2022
You only did that job for a year before being promoted. What happened?
I coped really well and enjoyed it and I think the managers saw something in me. The production manager approached me, and she asked if I was interested in a vacancy for a team leader as they knew that I’d got supervisory experience. So I started off in team leader training and doing some production planning, and from there it pretty much became a management world for me, really. How did your career progress from there? Within a year I’d had three different jobs and three different training patterns. At Branston, it’s like talent spotting - if they see your potential for doing other jobs, they will support you. It’s a progressive atmosphere and the company is very adaptive. It’s about the passion you have too. Like any job, some people might not really be interested but those that want to do
well for themselves can progress here. I became a production team leader and was also a technician because of my mechanical machinery experience. After four years the company had a restructure - they had invested a lot of money in new machinery - and separated the roles. I chose to stay with team leading because I enjoyed working with people and helping them to develop. How did Branston support you with training? I was learning a great deal in the job and then my operation manager asked me how I wanted to progress further, as part of our appraisal objectives. I wanted to move up to an operation manager role as it covers everything and he advised me to get some engineering knowledge. The company put me and other area leaders on a year-long course to gain a food manufacturing excellence diploma. I learnt how to use ‘lean’ techniques, which increase production efficiency, and continuous improvement methodology at Mansfield’s Vision West Nottinghamshire College. We learnt leadership skills including how to run meetings, lead projects, 5S manufacturing methods - everything we needed to do our jobs better. It helped me to really step up in my role - I could put what I’d learned into practice at Branston.
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| Potatoes & Root Crops
Describe your current role and what you aim to do next I am now a business improvement officer but I am also responsible for the use of continuous improvement to drive performance and I create training plans for team members. The training side became really important during the pandemic because we had to train people across a range of roles really quickly. It made us stronger in terms of planning and aiming to be one step ahead in case anything like that happens again. Now I’m hoping to achieve the operations manager role. I've got a lot of work to do - I want to train and develop myself to move faster with progress. Obviously Covid didn’t help as it put a two-year gap on everything, but the company is very supportive. What is your proudest achievement? It’s seeing people flourish and develop www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
into different roles. We've got a shift manager who was exactly the same as me and about six years ago I mentioned his name to the production manager at the time, saying he was a really hard worker and that he wanted to develop. He’s gone on to become a team leader. I also have a trainee working with me who is going to learn everything I know and progress - and then she can train someone else to do her job. What does the future hold as Branston continues to develop and introduce new products and machinery? The crucial thing for me is about us being adaptive regarding sustainability and the environment, looking at the importance of recycling and being carbon neutral and how the machinery we use can make our potato packaging fully recyclable. Although I believe one of the issues is around human behaviour and what customers do with
food packaging at home. We have seen major changes in the last decade, with more than £10m invested in at least ten different types of machinery. We are trying to invest in a sustainable future - for example, we are considering the move from plastic to paper and the machinery we would need to do that. Customers are asking for that as it’s easier to recycle paper. Any advice for someone setting out on the same route as you? Definitely do something you enjoy - find the right job for you that you can be passionate about. Even if you’re starting at the bottom, aim to go as high as you can. It may take some time but persevere and set your mind to it and you will get there.
June 2022 | Farming Monthly |
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| Grass & Silage
Grass weed germination timing influences spring strategy
ew research by NIAB is set to help growers and agronomists make more effective decisions on spring grassweed herbicide application timing and treatments. The trials, in partnership with Syngenta, will assess the competitiveness and risk of seed return from a range of key grass weeds, according to germination timing.
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Syngenta grass weeds specialist, Georgina Young, outlined that growers and agronomists typically face the dilemma of making an early Axial Pro herbicide application to tackle overwintered weeds before they become too large and difficult to control, or delaying treatment to allow more weeds to germinate and emerge in the spring. “Now we have pioneering research that will help to quantify just what impact the more aggressive overwintered weeds are having on the crop and how many seeds they are likely to produce, along with the consequence of later spring emerging weeds for crop competition and seed return,” she advised. “That will enable more informed decisions on appropriate spring Axial Pro herbicide timing for different grass weeds, along with helping to calculate the most cost-effective options for herbicide rates required on different sized weed populations.”
that different weed species have different germination timings, and the consequence when we come to apply a herbicide is we have a whole range of weeds at different growth stages and sizes. “In practice a large plant is clearly more difficult to control than a small one. That means weeds are frequently differentially controlled and the survivors have different levels of seed return,” he advised. Mr Cussans pointed out that some crops have very limited options and opportunities for herbicide treatments in the spring, possibly only one permitted application. “Really understanding how these different species, how the individuals within the population, are contributing to seed return driven by their germination is how we are going to optimise that application timing for different weed species.”
The work is looking to assess the competitiveness and seed return viability of black-grass, wild oats, Italian ryegrass and brome species from different germination timings. Weeds have been propagated and raised under controlled conditions in NIAB glasshouses, with known populations of seedlings planted out into a field crop at precise timings and stages through the winter and spring.
Through the season the NIAB researchers will assess the biomass of the weeds in the crop from two autumn and three spring germination timings, as a gauge of the potential competitiveness, along with monitoring seed return from the different weed sizes at harvest.
NIAB weed biology and management specialist, John Cussans, explained: “One of the challenges for growers is
For this season’s herbicide treatments, Mr Cussans
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highlighted the need to adapt herbicide rates to the variable sizes of weeds in the crop. “You want to be picking the dose for the largest weeds in the mixed population,” he recommended. “It’s really important to understand the nature of the grassweed population you’re looking to control; the species, the mix of individuals – to get the rates right and the application timing is absolutely critical.”
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| Grass & Silage
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| Grass & Silage
Avoid knee-jerk reaction against extra silage cuts based on fuel price D
o not let high fuel costs put you off taking extra grass silage cuts this season, without first considering the consequences, says Ecosyl silage specialist, Peter Smith.
The impact of higher diesel prices could be minimal compared with the benefit of harvesting better quality grass and being able to make more silage over the season, he says. This is particularly the case given current strong milk prices and since good silage has become a more
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valuable asset as bought-in feed costs have risen, he adds.
“First-cut silage has been made 2-3 weeks early on many farms this year,” says Mr Smith, “but some farmers are now considering dropping out a cut to save fuel.
“Clearly, farmers need to look at the financials for their individual farm situations. But don’t just look at the cost of each cut. Look also at its potential benefits.” Based on diesel being 60 p/litre
more expensive this season, and putting diesel consumption for harvesting and ensiling grass at around 25 litres/acre (62 litres/ hectare), Mr Smith calculates each grass cut costs just £15/acre (£37/ hectare) more this year compared with last year. However, grass silage is also worth more at around £45/t compared with £35/t last season, he stresses, plus milk prices have risen, and research shows that cutting grass younger and more often produces higher quality and more yield over the season – offering the potential to
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| Grass & Silage produce more milk from forage. Mr Smith says: “Research we conducted a few years ago showed that grass cut five times had the potential to support 3,500 litres/ha more milk compared with taking three cuts. This was based on the five cut approach being both higher in metabolisable energy and producing a higher dry matter yield over the season. At a milk price of 40 p/litre, that extra 3,500 litres is worth £1,400 compared with £875 when milk was just 25 p/litre. “The other advantage of cutting more often is it provides more opportunities to apply slurry. That can be significant if looking to reduce reliance on expensive bagged fertiliser.
does need ensiling well in order to protect its quality and dry matter, since its higher protein content can contribute to buffering the fermentation, and shorter cutting intervals can mean less time for slurry bacteria, such as enterobacteria, to dissipate. But the research also found that by improving the fermentation with a proven additive not only were enterobacteria numbers as much as 100,000 times lower, but DM loss was halved and there was evidence of better protein preservation. I would always urge farmers to use a proven additive, and preferably one also tested on multi-cut grass.”
“Grass cut younger and more often
Taking an extra grass silage cut may cost more with higher diesel prices, but it’s important to weigh this against the potential benefits of harvesting higher quality grass, given strong milk prices, says Ecosyl silage expert, Peter Smith
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June 2022 | Farming Monthly |
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| CEREALS
Latest tech celebrated at Cereals as farmers gear up for the future
unding grants of up to £300,000 will be made available to farmers to help them boost their businesses and add value to their produce, announced Minister Jo Churchill at Cereals.
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£30m from the Farming Investment Fund (FIF) will enable farmers in England to purchase equipment to process, diversify and add value to their products after they have been harvested or reared, she said.
firm’s Harry Sherwin. “Any surplus electric goes into a power pack battery system which allows the machine to work in the dark. Since we brought it to market earlier this year there are around 10 machines in the UK.” In the Syngenta Sprays & Sprayers demo area, Knight was among the companies taking part, showcasing its new 1850V self-propelled machine featuring a 5,000-litre tank and added under-chassis clearance, still with a lower centre of gravity than its
“Key to this is balancing consistent production in a variety of scenarios and growing conditions with strong trait sets and the reliable achievement of endmarket specifications.” Corteva’s PT303 Protector Sclerotinia is the top winter oilseed rape variety for gross output – 107% in the AHDB UK Recommended List for 2022. It offers a suite of genetic protection against sclerotinia. “Corteva’s trials show that when sclerotinia infection levels are 25% or above the severity of the disease in PT303 is reduced by up to 75%,” said Pioneer brand manager Andy Stainthorpe. Cereal disease prediction services are advancing rapidly at Microgenetics, which launched its SwiftDetect test for septoria last March. “We now have a test for wheat diseases yellow rust, brown rust and mildew,” said Chris Steele, crop diagnostics product manager at SwiftDetect. “We also have a test for ramularia in barley. It has gone well. We have doubled last year’s sales.” The tests involve sending a 10-leaf sample of the crop to the company’s lab with results available within one business day, he said. “It gives agronomists and farmers an early warning of disease in a crop, allowing tweaking of the fungicide programme.”
“There are many examples of innovation and farmers and growers should be supported to purchase equipment. Innovation will allow our sector to flourish,” she added. “There are some tremendous things happening out there and it is up to us to seize the opportunity.” The latest robotic technology was being demoed at Cereals, attracting a lot of interest. AgXeed showcased its AgBot FTender 1600 for drilling cereals, oilseeds and cover crops. At Opico’s demo plot, the Farmdroid FD20 autonomous weeding and seeding machine was in action. “It is electronically powered using energy from solar panels on top,” explained the 44 |
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predecessors. KWS previewed four new winter wheats in the agronomy area, including two high yielding varieties with breadmaking potential and impressive untreated yield performance. Featuring on the 2022 AHDB candidate list, KWS Ultimatum, KWS Wrenum, KWS Webbum and KWS Zealum could all be commercially available for drilling in autumn 2023, said KWS UK wheat breeder Mark Dodds. “All four varieties follow our sowing for peak performance (SPP) thinking and combine high yields with solid agronomics to form the basis of sustainable production, be it in a more regenerative approach or with conventional input levels.
At the National Association of Agricultural Contractors’ Land Drainage Hub, Mastenbroek highlighted the benefits of land forming. “It uses a GPS survey to identify uneven areas of a field,” explained commercial director Christopher Pett. “The survey data is used to scrape the soil from higher areas to produce an optimum surface. When combined with a drainage scheme, the land becomes more productive, generating better yields for farmers.” The two days at Cereals saw an attendance of 17,500 visitors, said event director Alli McEntyre. “The show had a real buzz about it with lots to see and do. Everyone was thrilled to be back and the industry has a really upbeat feel about it.”
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| CEREALS
Farm Sprayer Operator of the Year announced at Cereals inner of Syngenta’s Farm Sprayer Operator of the Year is Steve May, arable foreman at Fromant & Sanders, Clarkes Lodge, Kislingbury, Northamptonshire.
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Mr May is back in the final four years after making the top six in 2018. He does all the spraying on 810ha of arable crops across both owned and contract farmed land. Syngenta application specialist Scott Cockburn was one of the judges, and said he was impressed by improvements in the spraying logistics on the farm, which boasts a new chemical store and water supply. “Mr May is always seeking knowledge and not sitting back,” he said. “He is consistently trying to improve his www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
understanding and has shown this by acquiring the BASIS diploma and FACTS qualification. He is well organised and his attention to detail is very impressive.”
Mr May said he was excited to win the award, which includes a trip to the 2023 Agritechnica event in Hannover, Germany. “I am honoured and pleased to have won,” he said. “I try to improve all the time, year-on-year in what I do. I would like to continue doing what I am doing but also to look into collaboration with the Voluntary Initiative. I feel I have something to give to that.” He also has a top spraying tip. “Homemade, extended tractor mudguards protect nozzles and keep the sprayer clean in the field as well as preventing mud being thrown onto passing traffic on the road.”
The Syngenta Farm Sprayer Operator of the Year trophy was presented at Cereals by Jonathan Halstead, managing director at Syngenta UK. The five runners up were Richard Darling – Davison & Co, Great Barford, Bedfordshire; Matt Joseph – Acton Farming Company, Bishops Castle, Shropshire; Ashley Luke – A J Luke Contracting, Frome, Somerset; Andrew Manning - Ramridge Farm, Hitchin, Hertfordshire; and Danny Millazzo – Drysdales, Cockburnspath, Berwickshire. •
Cereals 2023 will be held at a new venue – Thoresby Farming, in the heart of Sherwood Forest, Nottinghamshire. It will take place from 14-15 June 2023.
June 2022 | Farming Monthly |
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| CEREALS
CEREALS VISITORS THE FIRST TO SEE MASTENBROEK'S 2022 CT12 CRAWLER TRUCK s well as learning about the benefits of land forming, visitors to this year's Cereals were the first to see Mastenbroek's 2022 CT12 crawler truck.
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The truck, the first to be sold, took centre stage on William Morfoot's stand in the National Association of Agricultural Contractors' drainage hub. Featuring a redesigned operator cab, the 2022 CT12 offers more internal space without increasing its footprint. Mastenbroek has also improved access to the cab with a larger door and upgraded steps and handrails. Once inside the cab, the controls have been brought closer to hand and feature an improved ergonomic design. Mastenbroek has added electronic track control to the CT12, which replaces the manual leavers found on previous models. With colder days in mind, Mastenbroek is now fitting heated windows to the front and right-hand side. The 2022 CT12 can also be specified with a 360-degree camera system to provide the operator with complete visibility of their surroundings. Following Cereals, the CT12 will join Morfoot's existing fleet of Mastenbroek machines and will be used to shift gravel backfill around arable farmland in 46 |
Farming Monthly | June 2022
conjunction with the company's farm drainage operations - which involves the precision placement of gravel over newly laid land drainage pipes. Based in Norfolk, William Morfoot has been draining and improving agricultural land since 1962, delivering what the company's managing director, Tim Sisson, says is "A high standard of workmanship backed up by the latest equipment to provide customers with a standard of service that is second to none." William Morfoot has used Mastenbroek machines since the 1980s and owns three trenching machines, and three tracked gravel carts. While William Morfoot did look at other manufacturers for its new crawler truck, Mr Sisson says that "Mastenbroek is a trusted partner of our business with whom we have had a long working relationship. Therefore, we were very confident that purchasing this machine from them would satisfy our requirements, especially having purchased similar machines before. "We always consider other options when making any substantial purchases. The marketplace is constantly evolving, with different manufacturers offering different machines and ideas. However, for this purchase, Mastenbroek was the best choice. "Mastenbroek's crawler truck offers everything we were looking for, and the
new cab is more spacious than previous models and offers better visibility." Introduced in 1983 to install aggregate backfill for sub-surface land drainage, the CT12 has benefitted from numerous upgrades since then. Today, the crawler truck offers the perfect combination of features demanded by agricultural drainage contractors, including Volvo Penta's D8 EU Stage V emission compliant engine and low ground pressure suspended and oscillating undercarriage with high tracking speeds. The discharge conveyor system is designed for controlled, accurate placement of backfill material either directly into a trench or a hopper mounted on the trencher. The front swing conveyor is controlled by a joystick for left and right-hand discharge through 180 degrees and variable heights up to 2.75m. A hydraulic hopper door combined with variable speed control on all conveyors allows the flow rate of the material to be adjusted as well. In addition to the forward conveyor, the CT12 also features a tipping hopper allowing it to be used as a dump truck to haul aggregate along pipeline rights of way. For further information about the CT12 and the wider Mastenbroek range, please visit www.mastenbroek.com, email info@mastenbroek.com or call +44 1205 311 313. www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
| CEREALS
his was our first time with a stand and variety plots at Cereals, and it was a great success with the two wellattended days keeping us busy with visits from growers and our trade contacts," comments Chris Guest, LSPB Managing Director.
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"The event was the ideal opportunity to mark the 125 year anniversary of NPZ by launching a competition for growers with a visit to the
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NPZ breeding station in northern Germany as first prize. "We also hosted a reception for the trade to toast the NPZ track record of successful plant breeding and progress for agriculture and society - and were joined at the reception by two of our colleagues from NPZ in Germany.
"LSPB's objective is to make a real difference to the UK farming industry through the combination of our UKbased breeding programmes and the expertise and cutting-edge technology of NPZ. "All-in-all, with good visitor numbers and our two celebratory events, this year's Cereals was very worthwhile for us. We look forward to Cereals 2023," adds Chris.
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| Diversification
Middle Farm and Featherbed Fruits in Oxfordshire family-run farm in Oxfordshire which is using the very latest technology and innovative growing techniques to enable it to produce strawberries for nine months of the year has picked its very first fruits.
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Middle Farm, in Mixbury, has diversified to launch Featherbed Fruits and has installed a state-of-the-art two-acre greenhouse which houses almost 80,000 strawberry plants. It has been run by the Rymer family for almost 100 years and farms a range of crops across just over 800 acres of land, also operating five B&B units, ranging from shepherd’s huts to luxury glamping tents, and a 7,000 sq ft office complex. When looking for an alternative enterprise to continue to sustain the business, considering the current challenges in the industry and generate enough income for the family, thirdgeneration farmer Harry Rymer looked into the possibility of growing soft fruits. Property consultancy Fisher German was instructed to prepare and submit a planning application for two acres of polytunnels, and despite the plans being recommended for refusal by council officers, the firm’s planning team demonstrated the positive impacts the scheme would have to achieve unanimous approval. This included the contribution towards a stable local food economy which is less reliant on global imports, the creation of 15 jobs and the impact on education, with school visits planned to educate children about locally sourced food in the future. 48 |
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The first strawberry plants, made up of both Everbearing June-bearing crops, were planted in February 2022 in a hydroponic, soil-free system consisting of coconut husk and irrigated rainfall collected from the roof. The temperature and humidity are monitored using a climate controller to ensure the optimum growing condition for the strawberry plants all year round. The double layer of poly for added insulation is also one of very few in the country and will help the farm reduce energy use. The farm has now welcomed its very first strawberries and is working with a company which caters for large-scale sporting events, with the fruit set to be used at this year’s Queen’s Club Tennis Championship. The forward-thinking project has also been shortlisted for an award in the South East Royal Town Planning Institute’s Excellence in Planning Awards, in the Successful Economy Award category. Harry said: “When looking into diversification methods I wanted something which utilised new technologies to push boundaries and demonstrate that soft fruits can be grown almost all year round, with the greenhouse only being quiet between December and February. “It’s a positive way to generate income and means that we can contribute to the country being less reliant on imports, something that will only become increasingly important in the future.
innovate technique which gives a complete blank slate, so we don’t have to investigate what is already in the soil and we’re less reliant on pesticides. “After investing in the polytunnels and equipment, we also wanted something which could generate a good income in our first year, so we’re very happy to see our very first strawberries ripen. “Utilising new technologies is certainly the future of farming and something which more people in the industry need to do. “It helps to have expert advice when it comes to planning to ensure that projects are achievable and to also highlight the benefits of schemes which are relatively unknown. “We now look forward to continuing to grow the fruit throughout the future months.” Melissa Balk, of Fisher German, led the planning application. She said: “Although new approaches in farming can pose challenges in the planning process, this can be because of the perceived impact that projects will have on landscapes. “We worked to ensure we submitted a robust application, making it clear that the polytunnels were policy compliant and highlighting the numerous benefits. “The technology has the potential to be rolled out in farms across the UK and would significantly reduce the amount of food imported from abroad, and we expect to see an increase in similar applications coming forward in the future.”
“Growing in coconut husks is an www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
| Diversification
Warwickshire farm host Harry Clark says farmers would be mad not to choose Miscanthus arry Clark and his secondgeneration farming family took the forward-thinking decision to plant Miscanthus as an important part of their farm’s diversification, to make life a little easier for everyone, while being more gentle on the planet.
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These Miscanthus fields, which are 190 feet above sea level, will be showcased on a farm walk taking place on Thursday 16 June 2022. The event is hosted by Miscanthus specialist, Terravesta, and runs from 9:30 – 11:30am. Harry says: “We wanted to utilise all aspects of the farm and our family, other than the traditional crops and cows. We diversified and we have chosen Miscanthus as an important part of our diversification, to suit our own needs. “Someone once told me to write down all the assets that we have on our farm; everyone forgets at least one,” says Harry. “So I wrote down: fields, footpaths, animals, crops, overhead cables etc. Then they pointed out that the key things were actually family and labour. You can’t force someone to have a passion for the job they do but it definitely helps.” Harry’s sister, Ella, is into horses so the family created a livery. Harry’s mother
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Yvonne is friendly and likes to keep things clean so they added glamping pods.
we don’t now, as a result of Miscanthus.
“My father Derrick is 79 years old and still likes driving tractors and to feel busy,” explains Harry.
“I’m still amazed by how fast it grows, it is flying up and it is at waist height in early June, even though it was so dry in April, the roots are so far down in the clay they keep the moisture in.”
“We were looking at reducing his workload, while introducing a new crop into the worst performing fields, so we opted for Miscanthus.
“We haven’t had to touch our baler and bale chaser. The only problem we had was a bit of knotweed that we can spray off.
“Miscanthus pretty much grows anywhere, even when growing conditions are not ideal. It has really exceeded our expectations and is making us more profit than the wheat crop we had previously.
“We are very pleased with Terravesta and all that they have done for us. We are not just a number to Alex; he knows us.
“We have already had a second crop of Miscanthus, which doubled in size from the first one and we are hoping the crop will double again.” Harry said his family were trying to get away from a ploughing system and initially it was hard to get a seed bed into the ground, but they now have a continuous crop. “It can be hard to get good ground because you have to catch it right,” says Harry, “But Miscanthus is low risk compared to cereal crops and you can secure a set income. We used to have waterlogging problems in the autumn but
“Terravesta wants you to succeed. I really can’t say one bad word about them and they paid for a new crop when the first one was hit by drought and we had problems with red clay and we costed it and planted it and then topped it. We’ve since had two great crops off it. “We sell it all back to Terravesta and they send it to renewable energy power stations. The yields are as good as the wheat crop. I think farmers would be mad not to choose Miscanthus now.” Book here: https:// www.terravesta.com/event/ warwickshire-june-miscanthus-farmwalk--2022/
June 2022 | Farming Monthly |
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| Show News
MEET THE YOUNGEST EXHIBITOR AT THIS YEAR’S LINCOLNSHIRE SHOW HEAD of this month's Lincolnshire Show, which is set to take place on Wednesday 22 and Thursday 23 June, tenyear-old Farmer Joe has been revealed as one of the latest exhibitors to join the exciting roster.
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Joe Trofer-Cook, who is the youngest exhibitor the show has seen since its launch 137 years ago, will be bringing his own lambs, including his ewe named Butterbean. Joe will be sharing his knowledge of animals as well as providing some top farming tips. Farmer Joe has been attending the Show as a visitor since he could walk. From learning his colours from the paintwork on tractors to spending lots of time outside with his grandad and animals, Farmer Joe has always had a passion for farming. Clare Trofer, Farmer Joe's mother said: “Joe is extremely excited to exhibit his farming passion at the show this year. Since Joe was little, he has always loved the outdoors, spending time with his animals, and growing vegetables. While at school Joe struggled, which led to his diagnoses of autism, dyslexia and memory processing
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problems. However, Joe found happiness in the outdoors and especially in his animals. “Since the pandemic, Joe’s interest in farming has only grown. With schools being closed during lockdown, it meant Joe could spend as much time outdoors as he liked. He started growing and selling his own vegetables, which eventually funded his three ewes. As time went on, Joe paid for his own sheep trailer and has now surpassed 30 sheep.” This year’s Lincolnshire Show marks the first event since 2019, and will feature a variety of entertainment, food, shopping, music, horticulture, agriculture and more. Jayne Southall, CEO of Lincolnshire Showground, said: “The Lincolnshire Show is all about displaying talent and encouraging future generations to take an interest in agriculture - just like Farmer Joe has. We’re thrilled to have Farmer Joe here for his first year exhibiting and look forward to listening to his expertise on farming.”
popular parachute display team will be back to mesmerise crowds with their daring maneuvers through the sky and down into the Main Ring on both days. The Lincolnshire Kitchen will also be returning with live cookery demonstrations from local chefs including, Masala Masters Ruchita Green, Indian Curry Pot’s Dr Arya Madhavan, Lincolnshire Cookery School’s Fiona Lucas, along with Rachel Green, Steven Bennett, Dominic Franks, and Neil Curtis. Meanwhile, more traditional attractions will be on display too, including the iconic tractor parade in the Krantz Main Ring, livestock and equine classes and the opportunity to get up close and personal with farming machinery from the past and present. Advanced tickets are £22 for adults, £7 for five to 16-year olds, and under-fives go free. Family tickets, admitting two adults and up to three children are priced at £55 (Booking fees apply). Car parking is free on both days.
Farmer Joe added: “I’m looking forward to the show and my advice to anyone who wants to be a young farmer, is to follow your dreams. Although we know some very nice farmers who help me, my mum and dad are not farmers, so I had to learn as I went along. Everyone must start from somewhere and I’m very lucky to have help.” As well as Farmer Joe, the Main Ring’s big new attraction for 2022 will be the Atkinson Action Horses. Often featured in major TV and film productions, the super talented steeds and riders will treat visitors to high-energy performances on both days. Meanwhile, the ever-popular showjumping and BMX displays will return alongside the Parade of Hounds and the Lincolnshire Fire & Rescue Band, who will also lead the closing ceremony. The return of the RAF Falcons has also been announced. Having first performed at the 2018 Lincolnshire Show, the
The Lincolnshire Show is organised by the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society, a registered charity that aims to educate about food, farming and the countryside. To purchase your tickets for the Lincolnshire Show please visit www.lincolnshireshow.co.uk
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| Show News
Opportunity to order machinery early Y
amaha has welcomed the return of the Royal Highland Show as an opportunity to help buyers learn about new machines in person for the first time. The brand will exhibit the widest range of its products in the UK this year and is urging visitors to use the event as a way to order early.
“The Royal Highland Show is an important event in the Scottish agricultural calendar, and we have chosen to embrace this with our biggest stand and widest range of machines. For
Marketing Manager Jeff Turner says: “We appreciate that some machinery has been in short supply during the pandemic, and we urge buyers to meet us at the Royal Highland Show so we can help them order in time for when they need it the most. Many of the products will be new to the show which will offer visitors a unique opportunity to experience them for the first time.” The core agricultural range, including the Grizzly and Kodiak ATVs, will be joined by motorcycles, side-by-side and even marine products such as the WaveRunner personal watercraft. www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
the first time we will be bringing our 42ft artic display unit and over 12 different product lines. This will enable visitors to see the variety of products available through our Scottish dealer network and place orders early for new and existing models,” he explains.
The machinery sector has experienced a challenging two years, with supply of products to the UK being held back due to the pandemic and the global supply chain issues around component shortages for items such as microprocessors, along with the ongoing disruption in shipping and container deliveries. However, Yamaha is keen to buck the trend and take full advantage of the Royal Highland Show to demonstrate that by planning ahead, customers can secure the machines they need. “There is no substitute for meeting and talking to people at an event. With the support of dealers Fraser Robb and Stirlings Marine, we have brought together the largest display of Yamaha machines ever exhibited at the show which we hope will demonstrate our commitment to supplying the machinery Scotland needs,” he concludes.
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| Show News
Valtra to attend The Royal Highland Show, FTMTA and the Royal Welsh Show
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ith Covid restrictions now lifted Valtra UK & IE will be attending a number of the key agricultural and farm machinery shows taking place during June and July.
Farming Monthly | June 2022
At the end of this month Valtra will be back at the Royal Highland Show which runs from the 23rd – 26th June. On display on stand 7TH 141 will be the complete range of new fifth generation machines from A Series through to T Series. www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
| Show News
Visitors to the show will also have the chance to find out more about Valtra Smart Farming solutions - a suite of technologies that work seamlessly together - Valtra Guide, ISOBUS, Section Control, Variable Rate Control and TaskDoc. A key design principle is the ease of use. All smart functions can be controlled from the unique SmartTouch armrest which will be available to demo at the show. Following on from the Royal Highland Show Valtra will be heading straight over to the popular FTMTA Farm Machinery Show, taking place on the 13th & 14th of July 2022, at the Punchestown Event Centre. Visitors to the show will again be able to see first-hand new 5th generation versions of our A, G, N and T Series machines and meet with the Valtra team who www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
will be on hand to run through the new machine features. One of the most visible new features on the 5th generation N and T Series tractors is the A-pillar display, which replaces the traditional instrument panel behind the steering wheel and where all the important information can be easily seen on the colour screen. Finally, Valtra can’t wait to welcome visitors back to stand E380 onsite at the showground in Llanelwedd for this years’ Royal Welsh Show! As well as being able to explore our new fifth generation machines visitors will also be able to get up close and personal with Diesel Dragon from Shrewsbury based Valtra Dragons Tractor Pulling Team – an opportunity not to be missed! The Royal Welsh show runs from the 18th – 21st July. June 2022 | Farming Monthly |
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| Show News
Dates and venue confirmed for Plantworx 2023 After a hiatus, due to the COVID pandemic and making way for the Hillhead show, the Construction Equipment Association (CEA) is delighted to confirm the venue and dates for the next Plantworx trade show. The 5th biennial construction machinery exhibition will be held on 13-15 June 2023, at the East of England Arena and Events Centre, Peterborough.
he CEA has taken the decision to host the Plantworx show, once again at the East of England venue, following positive feedback from exhibitors and visitors who attended the 2019 event, which was deemed a resounding success.
The 2023 event is predicted to attract over 450 exhibitors from the world's leading machine manufacturers, suppliers and service providers. Over the three-day event, visitors can expect to see the very latest in technological advancements and innovations which will impact the future of construction.
The permanent exhibition facilities offered by the East of England Arena provided the perfect platform for exhibitors to showcase their products, equipment and services – introducing the latest plant and technology to the UK construction industry.
The show, which will be the 'largest working' event in 2023, is planning a comprehensive demonstration programme where exhibitors can put their machines through their paces in 'real-site' conditions. The event team also has some new initiatives in the planning – so watch this space for more information.
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Visitors also applauded the Plantworx show's new home, praising the 'all weather' venue as a 'definite winner', with its permanent walkways, good communication signals and wifi facilities – which allowed visitors to 'do business – while doing business'!
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Farming Monthly | June 2022
CEA, chief executive Suneeta Johal said, "Plantworx 2023 will be my first show as CEO and I am very much looking forward to it. I believe with the amount of new and emerging technology this event is set to be the best yet.
There's a real appetite for attending 'inperson' exhibitions again. Our recent Futureworx technology exhibition proved to be a great success – and there was a real buzz amongst both the exhibitors and visitors." Suneeta added, "The East of England arena is an established exhibition venue and with the great support from our loyal exhibitors, and a targeted visitor programme, we are confident of delivering a memorable and valuable experience." Simon Frere-Cook Plantworx event director said, "Planning for Plantworx 2023 is now well underway as we build on the successes of 2019. With so much importance being attached to the working demonstrations, we have undertaken an extensive survey of the grounds at the East of England Arena so that we can spread the demonstration plots and thus improve the footfall www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
| Show News
throughout the site. There will also be a focus on technological advancements, helping the industry to be safer, smarter and greener." The 2023 site plan is being finalised following the results of the survey and stand sales will begin in June 2022. Plantworx Sales manager Angela Spink is anticipating a high demand for stands following the site plan release date! She said, "Confirmation that the show will return to the East of England Arena will
www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
be welcome news to previous exhibitors following the encouraging feedback from 2019. We are also very confident that new and old exhibitors will join us in 2023." Angela added, "The comprehensive digital site survey has been invaluable in identifying new site opportunities for demonstration plots and a new and interesting layout. I am very much looking forward to getting Plantworx 2023 underway."
Angela concluded, "We have put in an order for wall to wall sunshine for the 2023 event – we are just hoping it's in stock!" Plantworx 2023 will be exhibiting at the Hillhead Exhibition (21-23 June 2022 Hillhead Quarry, Buxton, Derbyshire) on Stand: PB24. Angela Spink will be on hand at the show to answer any questions you may have about the 2023 event. www.plantworx.co.uk
June 2022 | Farming Monthly |
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| Show News
Pembrokeshire County Show is BACK this summer for all to enjoy embrokeshire County Show, the largest county agricultural show in Wales, is going ahead this year, over two days, on 17 and 18 August. This year’s event, the first open to the public since 2019, will be a celebration of rural life in the county.
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The last full-scale show, which would normally attract around 100,000 visitors and competitors, was held in August 2019 followed by a virtual event in 2020 and a scaled down version in 2021 for animals and members only. Mansel Raymond, Pembrokeshire Agricultural Society President said, “We are very excited about the prospect of seeing our wonderful members, competitors, trade stands, sponsors and community coming together once again this August. Whether you're a Pembrokeshire local or just visiting we're sure you'll have a fantastic day out.” There will be some changes this year to 56 |
Farming Monthly | June 2022
the layout of the County Show to make it a better experience for everyone including the trade stands and visitors. There will be several smaller rings as was the case in the 2021 show. To enable a much larger public viewing area it has also been decided to remove all marquees and trade stands from the immediate main ringside. This year there will also be a new open air ‘street food’ area. To enable a smooth transition, it is recommended that all trade and catering stands secure their pitches as soon as possible. Visit www.pembsshow.org to book online or telephone: 01437 764 331. Sponsorship and Pembrokeshire County Show have been a successful combination for the last 45 years. Sponsors have enjoyed promoting their businesses through the varied mediums of banners, announcements, show rings, buildings, equine and livestock classes and championships over the years.
corporate sponsorship on the website, with class and championship through social media platforms. Sponsorship packages are available for all, from individuals all the way to the large corporate businesses. Sponsorship Manager, Richard Cole, said, “If you'd like to discuss becoming an advertiser in the show programme, sponsoring a section of the show or becoming an official show partner, please give me a call on 01437 764 331 or complete the form on our website.” Tickets for Society members and the public will be launched in the near future. Please visit the website: www.pembsshow.org for up-to-date details of this year’s event and follow Pembrokeshire County Show on facebook, twitter or Instagram.
These days the society also offer www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
| Show News
APF 2022 Reports APF 2022 – Exhibitor Record Ticket Sales Site Meeting
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PF 2022 and The Arb Show, the UK’s largest forestry, woodland, fencing, trees and timber show has reported record advance ticket sales for this year’s event.
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PF 2022 and The Arb Show, the UK’s largest forestry, woodland, fencing, trees and timber show has reported record advance ticket sales for this year’s event.
The show being held at Ragley Estate, Alcester, Warwickshire on the 22-24th September 2022 is expected to attract over 300 exhibitors and 25000 trade visitors over the three days.
The show being held at Ragley Estate, Alcester, Warwickshire on the 22-24th September 2022 is expected to attract over 300 exhibitors and 25000 trade visitors over the three days.
Exhibition Secretary, Ian Millward, commented “We are delighted with advance tickets sales for the event. In May we saw sales equalling 25% of our entire total for the 2018 event. Exhibitor bookings are very strong and we have very little demonstration circuit space left.
Exhibition Secretary, Ian Millward, commented “We are delighted with advance tickets sales for the event. In May we saw sales equalling 25% of our entire total for the 2018 event. Exhibitor bookings are very strong and we have very little demonstration circuit space left.
I get the feeling that the whole industry is really looking forward to the event after having to cancel in 2020 and with all the new events and features for this year it is going to be a great show”
I get the feeling that the whole industry is really looking forward to the event after having to cancel in 2020 and with all the new events and features for this year it is going to be a great show”
You can book your place as an exhibitor or visitor right now at https://www.apfexhibition.co.uk/ www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
You can book your place as an exhibitor or visitor right now at https://www.apfexhibition.co.uk/
June 2022 | Farming Monthly |
57
| Buildings
Perfect concrete finishing F
ootings & Floors Concrete Finishing are a highly experienced industrial and residential concrete installation company based in Essex working throughout the South East of England.
We at Footings & Floors Concrete Finishing have the capability and skill set for all your concrete needs, no matter of size or surface finish required. We offer a variety of
services such as: • • • • •
•
Power Floated Easy Floated Dapple Bar Tamp & Brush Finish. Install of suspended precast floors, polystyrene design or traditional block and beam. Preparation for concrete consisting of membranes, mesh, and insulation.
Our install teams are all highly experienced and hold all the relevant Industry qualifications. Each gang consists of a qualified SSSTS and first aid trained to ensure that all CDM requirements are met. Our mobile operations managers are on hand to assist onsite and liaise with clients where needed. They will visit sites on a regular basis to ensure program dates and site schedules are meet throughout the course of your project.
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Farming Monthly | June 2022
Working Together We offer a start-to-finish client experience and pride ourselves on our high level of customer service and product finish throughout your project. Why Choose Us? We work with a whole array of different types of clients to produce high quality installs and concrete finishing across all of our residential, commercial and agricultural projects. Why not take a look at our gallery page and see for yourself.
www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
www.footingsandfloorsconcrete.com info@footingsandfloorsconcrete.com 01787 703116 / 07816988684
• Power Floated • Easy Floated • Dapple Bar • Tamp & Brush Finish
www.farmingmonthly.co.uk 59-61 High Street, office 5, Dunmow CM6 1AE
• Install of suspended precast floors, polystyrene design or traditional block and beam • Preparation for concrete consisting of membranes, mesh, and insulation
June 2022 | Farming Monthly |
59
| Energy
Tapping the Great Potential for the Development of Green Energy Down Under n May 2022, WELTEC BIOPOWER, the world‘s leading specialist in the establishment and operation of biogas and biomethane plants, signed a cooperation agreement with the Australian company Enscope. The partners‘ common goal is to offer complete solutions from the plant drafting stage to the turnkey rollout in Australia. „With Enscope, whose offices are based in Perth, Brisbane, Melbourne and Darwin, our market position in Australia will become much stronger. The cooperation constitutes a sound foundation forthefurtherexpansionofouractivitiesandefficie ntgrowth“,saysVladimirBogatov,whoisresponsi ble for the sales operations of WELTEC BIOPOWER in the Asia-Pacific region.
I
„In Australia, there is an enormous potential for developing green energies from renewable organic sources“, emphasises Kane Ramsay, President of Enscope. Furthermore, the newly elected Federal Government has a stated policy of a cut in carbon emissions of 43% by 2030 when measured against 2005 levels, a significant increase over the previous Government’s policy of a cut of between 26 and 28%. Various industry leaders and several State Governments are also calling for mandated Renewable Gas Targets in Australia’s gas distribution networks. These policies are very supportive of a large scale ramp up in Waste to Energy and Renewable Gas Projects over the coming years. Accordingly, the range of interests and project targets of WELTEC and Enscope includes multiple aspects such as the reduction of costs for the disposal of organic waste, the development of energy income sources by addressing the demand for energy sources (gas, power, heating and cooling) and the reduction of greenhouse emissions – or a combination of all of these aspects. „Recognising the rapidly shifting community sentiment in Australia and the aspirations of
our traditional, longstanding natural gas based customers Enscope is proud to partner with WELTEC for the safe, efficient and reliable application of globally leading technologies within the Australian market“, adds Kane Ramsay. „WELTEC and Enscope both look back on a history of more than 20 years of successful project development in the energy and biogas sectors around the globe. Our strategic cooperation will provide the activities on the Australian bioenergy market with substantial impetus“ predicts Vladimir Bogatov of WELTEC BIOPOWER. Australia is not the only place where renewable energy sources are gaining in significance; in Germany, too, the topic is attracting increased attention. The war in Ukraine is now forcing countries to reach their climate goals faster, to get prepared for a potential discontinuation of the supply of Russian natural gas and to close any resulting supply gap as quickly as possible. In the medium run, Germany could deliver 160 TWh of
biomethane from its existing biomethane and biogas plants alone – enough to replace about a third of the imported Russian natural gas.
Left to right: Wolfang Bokern (Plant Cons- truction Manager WELTEC), Kane Ramsay (President of Enscope), Vladimir Bogatov (Sales Manager Asia-Pacific WELTEC), Hajo Schierhold (Head of Sales WELTEC).
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Farming Monthly | June 2022
www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
| Energy
New Small-scale Separator is Big on results F ollowing the success of its acclaimed Separators since their launch in 2016, Borger has released a new, affordable, 25 m³/h model, suitable for dairy farmers with herds of up to 150 - and for smallscale biogas operators. The launch of this compact new Bioselect RC 25 (which complements Borger’s existing range of up to 40 m³/h, 75 m³/h and 150 m³/h Separators), provides easy and highly effective separation of slurry. Reducing storage volume and creating effective fertilization with the liquid phase or use of solids as bedding material, the Borger Separator can be fully installed or used as a mobile unit, consistently achieving Dry Solids (DS) content up to 38%. The Borger Bioselect 25 m³/h model also benefits from a new feature that enables the user to adjust the length of the dewatering chamber to their specific requirements for enhanced separation efficiency. To ensure optimal utilization of the Separator, as well as a long service life, Borger
manufactures ready-to-connect, complete units with Separator, Borger rotary lobe pump and control unit that synchronizes the operation of the components. Upon request, Borger can also take care of the construction of the frame or the trailer.
depending on the amount of space available at the customers’ premises. For the new Bioselect RC 25, the frame can be equipped with a three-point-hitch frame. This makes it possible to relocate the entire unit easily and quickly by using a tractor.
In addition, Borger has developed a new frame concept for its separators – customized, using a modular principle
Borger UK - 01902 798977
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WE DELIVER SOLUTIONS.
WE DELIVER SOLUTIONS. • Rotary lobe pumps • Separation technology • Stainless steel tanks • Agitator technology • Macerating technology • Liquid feeding technology
www.boerger.com @boerger.com www.farmingmonthly.co.uk 61 Farming| uk Monthly | Börger UK Ltd. | East Wing – Old School | Watling St. Gailey | Staffordshire |June +442022 1902| 798977
| Energy
Protect your on-farm AD plant and boost biogas yield with the WANGEN X-UNIT from Agrico
naerobic digestion pump specialist Agrico has unveiled the new and improved WANGEN XUNIT; a revolutionary onestep biogas optimisation solution that protects on-farm AD plants from damage by harmful contaminants AND increases feedstock surface area to supercharge the digestion process.
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The X-UNIT’s innovative debris catcher prevents foreign objects from entering the AD system, safeguarding pumps, mixers, pipework and tanks. In addition, its highperformance chopping blades reduce AD feedstock to a fine, porridge-like consistency to optimise the anaerobic digestion process. The result is an easy-to-operate, energy-efficient system that extends the lifespan of valuable equipment, increases operational uptime and maximises biogas yield, boosting farmers’ bottom line.
of all makes of positive displacement pumps, such as progressive cavity and lobe, it comprises two elements: the XCUT, a high-performance chopper; and the X-TRACT, which separates contaminants from feedstock.
As feedstock passes through the XTRACT on its way to the digester tank, a reduction in velocity causes foreign objects such as stones, plastic, grit, bone or metal to fall into the base of the unit, where they are caught in a settling tank, or debris catcher. This features a large opening for easy removal of settled contaminants, preventing them from entering the wider AD system and subsequently damaging valuable downstream equipment such as pumps, mixers and pipework. Not only does this extend equipment lifespan, preventing farmers from having to prematurely replace expensive kit, it also reduces downtime caused by equipment failure due to blockages and wear. “As AD is a constant process, every minute that a plant is not operational has a direct effect on its ability to produce gas; increased uptime therefore equals more profit,” explains John.
A UK first Already established in Europe, a new and improved version of the X-UNIT is now available to UK on-farm AD plant operators for the first time thanks to Agrico’s partnership with WANGEN. The preferred pump supplier to 40% of the British biogas industry, Agrico has been the sole UK stockist for WANGEN’s range of biogas pumps and mixers for over 10 years and General Manager John Tame is delighted to introduce this latest innovation to the market: “Having seen first-hand the considerable damage caused to downstream equipment by contaminants like bone, metal, stones and grit entering an AD plant, I am excited to showcase the new and improved X-UNIT to the UK industry, where it can play an important role in protecting biogas systems. What’s more, its ability to help farmers extract the maximum gas yield from every tonne of feedstock will be a welcome bonus, particularly in the current climate where gas prices are at a record high.” Prolonging equipment lifespan Failing equipment, reduced digester headspace, and poor biogas conversion rates are challenges that affect many onfarm AD plant operators’ profit margins, and the X-UNIT aims to address each of these hurdles in turn. A modular system that can be retrofitted to the suction side 62 |
Farming Monthly | June 2022
After passing through the X-TRACT, the feedstock – now containing significantly reduced quantities of contaminants – moves into the X-CUT; a highperformance chopping unit operating at pressures of up to 6-bar and boasting speeds of up to 3,000 rpm. Its four double-edged blades finely chop the feedstock into a smooth, porridge-like consistency, reducing the risk of fibres wrapping around equipment or forming swim layers which can hinder digestion. Reducing feedstock particle size also results in a lower viscosity within the tank, improving mixing and helping the digestion process. But perhaps most crucially, the X-UNIT’s chopping ability increases a feedstock’s surface area. This provides easier access for the microbes in the digester, boosting the anaerobic digestion process and ensuring that the maximum amount of biogas can be extracted from each tonne of feedstock. Ease of maintenance
Maximising tank headspace In addition, without the X-UNIT to screen out debris, foreign contaminants would ultimately settle in one place – the floor of the primary digester tank. “A build-up of solids in the digester can have a severe impact on a plant’s success by reducing tank volume, also known as headspace,” states John. “The less volume inside the tank, the less biogas it can hold, resulting in reduced gas output and directly affecting a plant’s profitability. There is also the cost of removing the compacted sediment from the digester, which can reach hundreds of thousands of pounds. By preventing solids from entering the AD system in the first place, the X-UNIT protects plant operators from the risk of this expensive occurrence.” Optimising biogas yield
The X-UNIT’s unique four-blade design also extends maintenance intervals. By simply unlocking two bolts, the low-cost cutting blades can be switched around to double their lifespan. This ease of access also facilitates rapid maintenance, as John explains: “With the removal of just a few bolts and a simple turning of a handle, the motor can be slid out, a blanking plate can be inserted, and blade changeover can be actioned, while the rest of the unit continues to run as normal. The XUNIT’s simple design makes it costeffective and super easy to maintain.” Featuring a maximum flow volume of 1,250 m3/h, low energy consumption, low wear costs and accessible parts for ease of maintenance, the X-UNIT is designed for longevity. “UK on-farm AD plant operators can now protect their investment and optimise their biogas output with the best of German engineering, backed up by on-theground, local sales and servicing support from Agrico,” adds John. For more information on the WANGEN X-UNIT or any of Agrico’s range of leading pumping, mixing and agitating equipment, contact 01785 851240, email office@agricopumps.co.uk
www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
| Energy
Protecting on-farm biogas plants from the toxic effects of climate change
M BioEnergy is using its returned to the World Biogas Expo in June to shine a light on an issue which is becoming of increasing concern to operators of biogas plants using energy crop silage: reduced plant performance caused by spoilage inhibiting mycotoxins in the feedstock.
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Over the last ten years there has been a steady increase in the rates of spoilage in farm silage across Europe, including in the UK. There are a number of reasons for this, but warmer, drier conditions during harvest is a significant contributory factor. This is leading to an increase in two of the key causes of increased spoilage, namely higher levels of contamination on the plant leaf (e.g., yeasts and mould) and higher dry matter in the silage, which prevents efficient compaction in the clamp. Rising levels of yeast and mould Monitoring from Germany (see graph) shows that the levels of yeast and mould (both of which can lead to crop spoilage when ensiled) seen on the leaves of maize crops increased significantly during the ten years between 2010 and 2020, in line with rising temperatures. In particular, yeast contamination rose by more than 4,000%. This represents a significant increase in the level of potential spoilage organisms and mycotoxins which may be present in the crop when it is ensiled. While there are solutions on the market to mitigate against this, such as silage additive Silasil Energy XD from AD experts FM BioEnergy, untreated silage fed into a digester can inhibit biogas production. Increased dry matter The second factor is the effect of higher crop dry matters. Partly due to higher temperatures at harvest, but also due to increasing on-farm pressures which can lead to longer than optimal in-field drying of grass silage, the dry matter of silage has been slowly increasing in recent years. Higher dry matters increase the levels of moulds and mycotoxins in the silage in a number of ways: the associated higher pH levels favour the production of mycotoxins, while drier silage is also harder to compact, meaning that more air is included at clamp loading, leading to increased risk of spoilage. The resultant mycotoxins not only reduce the energy content of the silage, but when added to the digester, they can also prove toxic to the bacteria required for anaerobic digestion, limiting biogas production.
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“Often, the first signs of a problem are higher than normal acid levels, together with the typical symptoms of poor digestion: lower gas yield, lower methane content or rising volatile fatty acids,” explains Tim Elsome, General Manager of FM BioEnergy. “At this point operators will run tests on their feedstock to try to find out what is inhibiting gas production, but it can take time for the results to come through, and they can sometimes be inconclusive. In the meantime, the affected batch of silage may have been used up.” First aid for digesters
It was as a response to these issues that FM BioEnergy’s long-term partner Schaumann BioEnergy developed ALGEACELL+Detox, which Tim describes as a detoxifying ‘first aid’ treatment for digesters affected by feedstock contaminants such as disinfectants, antibiotics and mycotoxins. “Using ALGEACELL+Detox will detoxify silage feedstock, negating the effects of inhibitors such as antibiotics or mycotoxins, allowing you to investigate the exact cause of any issues and put in place more permanent solutions,” he explains. “Equally, it can simply help you to work through a particular batch of silage which may cause one-off issues, particularly if you are buying in feedstock from outside.”
charged toxic molecules preventing them from inhibiting digestion. The product also contains algae-derived nutrients which help to support the bacterial population in the digester. “While we would always advise testing to understand any problem and to put in place the correct long-term solution, the benefit of ALGEACELL+Detox is that you don’t have to know what the problem is for it to work,” stresses Tim. “It acts like first aid for your plant, treating the immediate problem and giving you time to diagnose if there is a more serious underlying issue or if you just had a ‘bad’ load of feedstock.”
Developed by Schaumann BioEnergy via a unique process, ALGEACELL+Detox is produced from brown algae, a natural material which is environmentally friendly and non-toxic. The product utilises the properties of the alginates (alginic acids) produced by the algae. These threedimensional branched structures have a large surface area with numerous interstices, which form a network of positively charged cations and negatively charged anions. In the digester these bind to June 2022 | Farming Monthly |
63
| Mental Health
Keeping it 'real' mood & mind strategy C onsumers’ interest in foods that help them manage stress or relax, boost mental wellbeing or focus has been sharpened by the effects of the coronavirus pandemic and the accompanying anxiety about what the future might bring. More than a fifth of consumers claim to be eating foods to boost their mood and mental wellbeing, according to a New Nutrition Business survey of 4,800 consumers in Australia, Brazil, the US, Spain and the UK. Younger consumers are more actively looking for these benefits from foods than are older consumers (see images 1 and 2).
expert who is director of consultancy New Nutrition Business. "Coupled with that you need to select ingredients that could have credibility with the health-active consumer."
the many people who want a morning shot of energy but don’t want caffeine. Mud Wtr's active ingredients include the mushrooms lion’s mane, cordyceps and reishi.
Mood & Mind benefits are connected strongly to everyday ‘real foods’. Chocolate, for example, is used by many people to lift their spirits. Mushrooms are one class of ingredient which is increasingly finding success – and connects to consumers' desire for 'real' in a way that more science-sounding ingredients, such as l-theanine and GABA, cannot.
US kefir market leader Lifeway is another company which has embraced the potential of mushrooms, using reishi and lion’s mane in its oat kefir.
One of the brands creating success with mushrooms is California-based
"We are likely to see a major push for mushroom ingredients in the next few years," explains Mellentin. "For example, Compass Pathways, a company marketing mushroomderived psychedelics, successfully floated on the NASDAQ exchange in the US with a valuation of $590 million. Backers of the company including PayPal co-founder Peter Thiel." "Investors are motivated by a growing body of science for mushroom," he adds. In a concise and unique Strategy Briefing, Mellentin highlights, with brand case studies, the four strategies that companies are using in the emerging and high-risk area of nootropics and adaptogens. The report explains:
Increasingly, creative companies are responding to this demand and developing foods and beverages with added ingredients – nootropics and adaptogens – specifically designed to deliver a mood or mind benefit. But success is rare. Most such products don’t perform well enough on taste or don’t deliver a benefit that the consumer can feel – or at least think they can feel.
Mud Wtr, a powder for adding to beverages and foods. It has positioned itself as an alternative to coffee, for
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Which ingredients to use, including a review of 17 ingredients and their benefits
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Which consumer benefits to target
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What social media reveals about which emergent ingredients and benefits are getting the most consumer attention.
“It is a premium-priced and very high-risk area which is difficult for companies to navigate,” says Julian Mellentin, author of a new Strategy Briefing on Nootropics & Adaptogens. “The challenge of delivering a product that both tastes good and delivers a feel-the-benefit effect, and is convenient, has been a major barrier to success in this category,” explains Mellentin, a food industry 64 |
Farming Monthly | June 2022
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Farming people aren’t ‘invincible’
At RABI, we understand that the farming community is facing complex challenges. This is why we’re evolving our services to support those changing needs. Through a network of local support, we aim to get people back on track and improve farmer resilience. Registered Charity Number 208858
Call us today 0808 281 9490 / rabi.org.uk www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
June 2022 | Farming Monthly |
65
| Farm Safety & Security
Farmers urged to keep taking safety seriously TVTrac is urging farmers to take security more seriously, after a spike in ATV and side-by-side theft has been felt across many regions in the UK in recent months.
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Aside from the more obvious and conventional reasons behind theft, NFU Mutual reports that the global supply chain shortages are a new and more recent incentive behind many ATV and equipment thefts, as waiting lists for new products grow and the used and second-hand market demand increases. NFU Mutual reports that in 2021, more than half the reported ATV thefts took place between September and December, a statistic that clearly runs parallel to the shortages of products - a trend that has continued into 2022. Despite this relative doom and gloom, ATVTrac continues to lead the fight against rural crime, thanks to its intelligent functionality that protects farm
machinery 24/7, 365 days a year.
With flexible installation on many machine types, and using multi-tier technology, ATVTrac offers real-time location information, while informing the owner of unauthorised movement through text, email and phone call.
The firm’s Rupert Archer-Smith, explained, “The trend is pretty obvious when you think about it. When product is hard to come by, the thieves see a way to make money. Unfortunately, we as an industry have been too slow to respond to theft, and while our tracking product is a very real and valid tool in the fight against rural crime, so is simple education. It may sound obvious, but all too often simple actions like removing ignition keys, putting an ATV away at night or just locking up a barn are enough. More than anything we just need to be aware.”
Extra features include live tracking and machine over, helping with safety and duty of care by covering lone worker policies at the same time. Other useful functions include live battery information, service notifications, as well as journey history and usage reports. Should a theft occur, ATVTrac has a 24hour manned call centre to track the device, liaising with police or partner company Securitas to recover the stolen asset and return it in a hassle-free way.
Of course, there will always be the more determined thieves, which is why ATVTrac now protects many ATV and side-by-side machines across the UK, and why manufacturers such as CanAM, CF-Moto, Kawasaki, Polaris, Suzuki, Kymco and many others endorse ATVTrac.
ATVTrac currently boasts a 98% recovery rate.
Revolutionising ATV & Asset Security A discreet ATV tracker that monitors the movements of your asset in real-time, allowing you to view status and usage history 24/7 with notification of unauthorised movements.
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| Farm Safety & Security
Farmers Strengthen the UK’s Safe Digging Community he UK’s safe digging community, which now firmly includes farmers, has never been stronger, with 84 percent of all projects now preceded by a search for underground pipes and cables, according to Digging up Britain 2022.
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The annual safe digging report by LSBUD reveals that a recordbreaking 3.4 million search enquiries passed through its collaborative portal in 2021, equating to a search being placed every six seconds. Richard Broome, MD at LSBUD, comments: “It is great to see so many searches being made. In 2021, we witnessed an overall ten percent increase on the previous year, which clearly shows that safe
digging practices are more resolutely on the agenda than ever before. What’s particularly exciting to see is the increasing awareness among high risk groups, such as farmers, of the need to search before they dig.” Agricultural works saw an even more substantial increase over the year, with the total number of searches increasing from 3,446 to 6,067 - a massive 76% boost. These searches precede all sorts of agricultural activity, such as replacing fences and hedge planting, tree planting, ditching and drainage work, as well as projects like upgrading farm buildings and resurfacing gateways and tracks. Other activities included farm diversification such as solar farm projects.
The Digging up Britain data shows that searching on LSBUD’s portal before digging has become a habit. Richard concludes: “Safe digging has become a common practice amongst farmers which is great to see. This is significant because the volume of digging work across the UK is set to boom in 2022 and beyond with a continued focus on farm diversification. The more farmers that search before they dig now, the safer we stay as a nation, even when more works are taking place. Remember, search before you dig.” To download a copy of Digging up Britain 2022, visit www.lsbud.co.uk/ digging-up-britain-report.
Power company reaches out to better connect with farmers around safety U K Power Networks is working with the National Farmers’ Union to talk to farmers about the importance of electrical safety.
The UK’s biggest electricity distributor will send safety advisors to a series of NFU-led events starting from 23 June to be held at farms across the East of England including Suffolk, Norfolk, Essex and Cambridgeshire ahead of the harvest season. The company, which distributes electricity to 8.4 million homes and businesses across London, the South East and East of England, wants farmers to understand that contact with high voltage electricity cables can be fatal. The main risk is farm machinery coming into contact with overhead power lines, and advice being offered at the safety talks will include: •
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The importance of planning ahead. Mark overhead and underground power cables on farm maps and inform all staff, contractors and visitors of where they are Know the maximum reach of all machinery and consider how it can be used safely. Look up and www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
check around you before loading or unloading, using tipper wagons or trailers in fields and when stacking
workers and contractors where the power lines are, being prepared and focusing on the on the way you work, can help keep people safe.”
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Stay alert and vigilant when using GPS auto steer systems. Always assume power lines are live
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Know how to exit your vehicle in case of an emergency - keep at least ten metres away from fallen power lines
Charles Hesketh, a regional policy manager for the NFU across East Anglia, said: “Agriculture has one of the worst track records for accidents of any industry and sadly the number of fatalities year on year is not coming down.
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Take special care in dark or poor light conditions especially when tired. Call 0800 3163105 or just 105 in an emergency. Download the What3Words app to help explain your location
Ros Forbes, safety advisor at UK Power Networks said: “We are pleased to be working closely with the NFU to be able to reach out directly to farmers and get across safety messaging which could potentially save lives. “Around a fifth of all contact with high voltage electrical equipment on our networks involves the agricultural industry - meaning farmers are at risk of injury or even death so we are determined to raise awareness of the potential dangers on their land. “Taking time to plan, informing
“Initiatives such as our series of Health and Safety events are vital for raising awareness and helping to break down the stigma that can be attached to on farm safety. “We are delighted that UK Power Networks is helping to support these events across East Anglia reaching around 700 farmers just ahead of the busy harvest period when combines, tractors and telehandlers will all be out in full force. “Sharing information and providing clarity and solutions to both prevent incidents from happening in the first place and guidance if the worst were to happen will prove to be invaluable for both keeping on the lights and keeping our farmers safe.” A farming safety video can be viewed at Farming Safety Animation - Be Bright Stay Safe - UK Power Networks - YouTube
June 2022 | Farming Monthly |
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| Farm Safety & Security
THE MOST VERSATILE SECURITY CAMERA THAT CONNECTS ANYWHERE VIA WIFI OR 4G SIM
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urope's leading home security camera brand Arlo today announces the launch its Go 2 Security Camera to the UK market.
you to see activity as it's happening. For more advanced monitoring, a monthly Arlo Secure Subscription gives you access to its industry leading security features including customised smart detection, which gives your camera the power to distinguish between people, animals and vehicles so you're only notified to the things you care about. Arlo Secure also gives you up to 60[2] days cloud storage so even if you miss an alert, you can look back at the recorded footage anytime. Take immediate action
The new mobile outdoor camera allows users to connect anywhere via Wi-Fi or an integrated 3G/4G SIM card, giving users the power to protect 99% of locations[1]. Connect Anywhere The Go 2 is Arlo's most versatile security camera. Users can choose to connect directly to WIFI for reliable protection at home, or for more remote locations they can insert a 3G/4G SIM card to connect the camera to the internet. For homeowners who want true non-stop protection, the camera can automatically switch to a cellular connection if the WIFI drops. A 100% wireless installation means users can set-up and start protecting their homes and property in less than 5 minutes. With its long-lasting battery and SIM powered capability, the Arlo Go 2 is perfectly positioned to watch over caravans or motorhomes, cars, bikes, boats, farms and much more. Advanced security monitoring The Arlo Go 2 lets you stream live 1080p colour HD video straight to your smartphone app, night or day - allowing 68 |
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When motion is detected, the Arlo Go 2 will send alerts to your smartphone or device – wherever you are in the world. If users spot a potential threat, they can remotely trigger the built-in alarm siren to deter intruders or can use the two-way audio to scare them away, as well Arlo's exclusive locked screen response or 'call a friend' options, without the need to unlock a phone. The integrated spotlight can also be configured to be motion activated or turned on manually via the app, adding a further layer of protection. The Arlo Go 2 Camera is available from the 1st of June with an RRP of £309.99 for the device and a two year Arlo Secure subscription
from www.Arlo.com. Further telco and retail stockists will be announced in June 2022. For more information on the full range of Arlo Smart Home Security products and services, visit www.arlo.com
Insurance Approved
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June 2022 | Farming Monthly |
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| Farm Safety & Security
Farmers and Contractors Working Safely in Partnership It is vital that farmers and contractors work together to ensure that safety management is a priority while contractors are on farm. Both parties will have duties under health and safety law and open communication is essential to ensure that everyone is fully aware of their individual responsibilities to protect staff and the public. Both parties will need to have in place their own safety management policies and procedures and make everyone aware of any risks from each other’s work. Selecting a contractor: Choose a properly insured professional Check that they have sufficient skill/training/ qualification to carry out the operation safely and to the necessary standard Check they can meet your Assurance Scheme requirements (e.g. proof of professionalism such as NAAC’s ALBC) Check if sub-contractors will be used and who/how they will be managed to maintain safety standards Check they have a written health and safety policy. Before a job starts both parties must agree on: Designated responsibility for waste produced from the operations carried out by the contractor (e.g. plastics, PPP containers, spent sheep dip etc) Work plan – ideally in writing Responsibility for notifying residents/public prior to work taking place if necessary (e.g. local residents, beekeepers) If specific local routes are needed to avoid public nuisance Risks of the job and how they will be managed/ controlled and by whom
The farmer must provide the contractor with: Clear and detailed instruction on the operation(s) to be carried out by the contractor (ideally using maps and in writing). This should include: Access points and one-way systems Location of hazards on a map e.g. overhead power lines, underground services/ hazards, areas out of bounds, members of the public/public footpaths, shared access routes, boundaries, steep slopes/ manhole covers, bridge strengths if applicable, livestock hazards Location of drains and watercourses Secure areas where children may be playing or where there is a risk children may stray Environmental designations, wildlife or constraints Specific instructions relating to farm assurance/ Government schemes Location of first aid facilities Location of firefighting equipment Information about location of other workers, contractors, visitors on site Details of welfare facilities if provided (or the contractor is providing their own) Contact details and procedures in an emergency.
Terms and conditions Payment rate and terms. The contractor will carry out a visual risk assessment on-site. If there are significant risks, the customer should expect that work will be stopped until satisfactorily controls are put in place. Farmers do not shift all responsibility for safety to a third party when a contractor is used, and it is vital to work in partnership and always keep lines of communication open.
National Association of Agricultural Contractors 01780 784 631 • members@naac.co.uk • www.naac.co.uk
www.nfuonline.com January 2022
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| Farm Safety & Security
NEW Farmer-Contractor Safety Checklist he NAAC and NFU have worked together to produce a checklist that will help farmers who decide to work with a professional contractor put in place the actions and communicate the responsibilities required for jobs to be carried out safely and efficiently.
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The Partnership Checklist can be found on the NAAC website: www.naac.co.uk
It is vital that contractors and farmers have a close relationship, not only to make the partnership a financial and productive success, but also to keep everyone safe and the new checklist offers a useful tool to support this. Commenting, Jill Hewitt, NAAC Chief Executive said, “Contractors are now relied upon by many farms to provide a skilled labour force and high-tech machinery. It is essential that everyone works together to exchange local information to make the job run smoothly, avoid public nuisance and keep staff, families and the public safe.” As part of the Farm Safety Partnership, the NAAC and NFU are working with other industry organisations to improve the safety record in farming. It is difficult to separate business requirements, environmental concerns and safety as all tend to be interlinked and the new checklist aims to draw together the vital elements of a successful and safe contractorfarmer relationship. NFU Vice President David Exwood said: “Farmers and agricultural contractors work closely together on a dayto-day basis, and this new checklist is a great tool to ensure that the whole industry is working together to help everyone remain safe. “This checklist is about improving the working relationship between farmers and contractors by making small changes to reduce the risk of accidents, while also improving efficiency and productivity.”
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June 2022 | Farming Monthly |
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| Livestock
First Of Its Kind Livestock Vaccination Guideline Strongly Welcomed SD Animal Health UK strongly welcomes the National Office of Animal Health (NOAH) Livestock Vaccination Guideline for the dairy, beef, and sheep sectors.
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Published on Tuesday 24 May 2022, the report authors – Prof Jonathan Statham, Dr Joseph Henry and Dr Fiona Lovatt – detail the rationale for vaccination for the identified range of highest priority ‘Category one’, and usually recommended ‘Category two’ diseases for ruminants. “We’re proud to join the growing community of industry organisations pledging to support the implementation of these crucial recommendations that advocate a prevention-first approach,” says Jan Moehlenbrock, MSD Animal Health UK managing director. Sam Gayton, MSD Animal Health UK ruminant business unit director, explains that the independent expert recommendations within this Guideline
call for this robust vaccination strategy to become routine practice in livestock management. “This new Guideline from NOAH is a seminal publication which places a new and very specific focus on the role of preventative health in UK farming. It will play a pivotal role in helping the whole industry adopt best practice, and ensure we can continue to position the UK as the home of excellence in animal health and welfare,” says Mr Gayton. “Ultimately, sustainable food production starts with healthy animals, and the Guideline brings a new urgency to discussions between vets, farmers and industry, leading to effective vaccination strategies becoming the default on-farm.” The Guideline brings together independent veterinary experts in preventative health approaches, with an introduction from The Right Honourable the Lord Benyon, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs in
partnership with NOAH. Setting out a vision to support vets, other animal health prescribers and advisors, farmers, and policy makers with vaccination guidelines for priority diseases, the Guideline provides a framework for greater farm resilience and sustainable improvements in efficiency and productivity. “It’s clear preventing disease and infection on-farm benefits the health and welfare of cattle and sheep. It also supports environmental sustainability goals and plays a central role in a productive and efficient future for dairy, beef and sheep farming across the country,” concludes Mr Gayton. The NOAH Livestock Vaccination Guideline for dairy, beef, and sheep sectors is now available from: https://www.noah.co.uk/wp-content/ uploads/2022/05/NOAH-LivestockVaccination-Guidance-2022_v4.pdf
Got spare land? How about starting a livery yard? ffering livery services can be a lucrative way of generating income from otherwise unproductive outbuildings and fields. Understanding the basics and some of the frequently asked legal questions will help you to understand whether livery services would be a viable diversification option for you.
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What is a livery? Livery stables are privately owned stables offered to horse owners as a place to keep their horse in return for a weekly or monthly fee. The size of the fee usually reflects the facilities offered and the main categories of livery are as follows: •
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Full Livery – A fully managed yard, where horse owners pay a premium for all their horse's needs to be met, including feeding, grooming, mucking out and exercising. Part livery – A flexible option allowing owners to receive certain aspects of care for their horse, such as feeding, watering and mucking out, whilst they take care of the rest. DIY livery - Where yard owners provide the grazing and stabling facilities, but the horse owner meets all the other needs of the horse including mucking out, grooming and exercising. Working livery - Working liveries are usually managed riding stables that offer horse owners a discount on stabling fees in return for allowing their horse to be used in riding lessons.
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Will I need planning permission? As horses are not considered agricultural animals you are likely to require planning permission for a 'change of use' if you are turning agricultural land into a commercial livery yard. In addition, if you are constructing new stables/facilities or redeveloping existing farm buildings it is likely that there will be planning implications. Our advice is always to discuss the potential planning implications of any diversification project with the relevant authority. Will I need to pay business rates? This will largely depend on the relevant local authority and the size and value of the livery operation. Some livery operations will trigger the payment of business rates and our advice is always to discuss the implications with the relevant local authority. Do I need a written livery agreement? We would always recommend using written agreements when offering livery services. The advantage of a well drafted written agreement is that it will make clear the rights and responsibilities of each party. This can be particularly important so that everyone is clear on who is responsible for meeting the horse's needs. Can I keep hold of a horse if an owner does not pay their livery fee? The concept of retaining a horse (or other item) until a contractual payment is made is known as a lien. The most straightforward way of ensuring you have
the right to a lien is to include a term in the livery agreement allowing you to retain the horse until livery fees are paid in full. Who is responsible if the horse gets injured? The starting point is that the person in possession of a horse is responsible for keeping it safe. Often that will mean the responsibility is with the livery yard owner. It may be possible to limit liability in certain circumstances by including well drafted clauses in written livery agreements. Who is responsible for damage caused by the horse at livery? Typically, the person in possession of the horse will be responsible for any damage the horse causes to someone else or another horse. A well drafted livery agreement may help to mitigate your responsibility for damage caused and it is always advisable to consider your insurance position. Will I need insurance? We would strongly suggest obtaining at least a minimum level of public liability insurance in case of injury or damage to third parties. More comprehensive insurance may be advantageous and anyone considering diversifying into livery services should contact their insurance broker. Josh O'Neill, Solicitor in the Agriculture & Rural Affairs team in Exeter – Trowers & Hamlins
www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
| Livestock
Scientists use technology to look at the personalities and predictability of farmed calves sing state of the art sensor technologies, experts at the University of Nottingham have found that calves reared on farms not only vary significantly in their movement and space patterns, but also that some calves are more predictable in their behaviour compared to others.
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The research indicates the presence of exploratory and active personality types in farmed calves. The study, which is published in the Royal Society Open Science journal, was led by Professor Jasmeet Kaler from the School of Veterinary Medicine and Science at the University. Changes in animal behaviour have been monitored in several animal species over time. In farm animals, differences in behaviour can impact animal welfare and productivity, and identifying changes in an individual's personality (behavioural expressions), or changes in its predictability (individual variability of those behaviours), can be used as early warning for disease, and as indicators for the welfare status of the animals. However, in cases where each individual has a different baseline behaviour , using group mean threshold as an indicator of potential sick or stressed animal can lead to mislabelling. Therefore, measuring between and within individual variability in farm animal behaviour and www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
understanding what behaviours show variability or consistency, and under what circumstances, is extremely important in moving towards individual health and welfare planning for the animals. Whilst previous studies have looked at farm animal personality using behavioural tests, they still lack wider generalisability as they don't observe animal behaviour in their natural environment. In addition, they have failed to quantify both between and within individual variation. This is the first livestock study to use detailed and extensive data on the space use and movement as they occur under normal management of farm-housed calves collected via sensors to indicate the existence of "exploratory" and "active" personality traits in farmed calves. The team used precision livestock technologies, particularly ultra -wideband sensors, to measure individual movement patterns and detect variation, between, and within, individual levels, of 60 calves at the University of Nottingham farm, Centre of Dairy Science Innovation. The aim was to investigate whether the calves display different personality types by measuring and investigating patterns over time for different measures of movement and space use – e.g total distance travelled, core area used, total area used, site fidelity, and average time
spent in the feeder area. They also investigated potential differences in predictability (within individual difference), and looked at the relationship between these variables to uncover the presence of behavioural syndromes, and the relationship between personality and predictability of the different measures. Professor Kaler said: "Our results indicate that differences not only occur in behaviour expression between calves (i.e personality); but that calves also vary in how predictable or unpredictable they are in terms of their movement and space use patterns. It is possible to speculate that unpredictable animals might be less affected by changes in the environment and therefore more resilient, while animals that rely on a more consistent pattern of behaviour might struggle to cope with changes. "I am currently leading a BBSRC-funded project where we use a wide range of individual and social behaviours measured via sensors and camera technologies to understand and define resilience and use these for early detection of disease and have indicators of positive welfare." The full study can be found: https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/ 10.1098/rsos.212019
June 2022 | Farming Monthly |
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| Livestock
Dietary changes to mitigate heat stress losses in dairy cows or dairy producers going into hotter months, having a plan in place to adjust rations as temperatures spike can offset production losses associated with heat stress, says Dr Richard Kirkland, ruminant nutritionist for Volac Wilmar Feed Ingredients.
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requirements of the cow, increasing upwards of 25 percent as breathing rate and panting are elevated to help lose heat for body temperature regulation, therefore reducing energy availability. “If not managed, cows will quickly fall into an energy deficit,” says Dr Kirkland. “As a result, other functions including fertility and milk production are significantly reduced. Research studies have reported conception rates falling as low as 10 percent during the hottest months of the year and milk yield falling by 35 percent.” Increasing energy density When it comes to dietary management to mitigate the effects of heat stress, energy density delivered via a rumen-protected fat should be a key priority, explains Dr Kirkland.
“When temperatures reach 25°C, cows can really start to be impacted by heat and reduce feed intake. Intake continues to decline as temperatures increase, with research data demonstrating a 20 to 40 percent decrease in dry matter (DM) intake when temperatures reach 40°C,” says Dr Kirkland.
“Simply swapping lower-energy forage for highly-fermentable cereals will effectively increase the energy density of the ration on paper, but these starchy supplements will lead to increased acid in the rumen, which is already under pressure to function adequately and effectively during heat stress conditions. This can lead to acidosis, which knock-
making it a great ingredient to safely increase the energy supplied in every bite of feed. Fat is also considered a ‘cool’ ingredient, generating considerably less heat during digestion and metabolism compared to other feeds – something producers need to be aware of when choosing other feed ingredients. “Digestion of feed requires energy and the process also generates heat internally,” says Dr Kirkland. “Good quality, highly-digestible forage should be offered to the highest yielding cows under the most stress, while digestible fibre sources will help maintain production without increasing rumen acid load. Poor quality forage should be avoided as it requires a lot more work by the animal to chew and digest – generating greater internal heat production.” However, producers need to consider the most appropriate type of fat supplement based on the fatty acid profile of the supplement to best meet farm targets, rather than just considering the direct energy element. Selecting fatty acids to support milk contracts Aside from being an energy-dense feed ingredient, the fatty acid make-up of the fat will determine which aspect of performance can be most influenced, adds Dr Kirkland. “For example, cows in early lactation and approaching their next breeding window would benefit from a traditional calcium salt supplement that offers a source of rumen-protected oleic acid (C18:1). This helps improve body condition, development of eggs and embryos, and total diet fat digestibility,” explains Dr Kirkland.
These effects become more pronounced where humidity is also an issue, and the temperature-humidity index is often used to indicate degree of stress on dairy cattle. Higher humidity will see moresevere heat stress issues at lower temperatures. A reduction in DM intake results in a reduction in energy intake, resulting in less energy available for production. This is further compounded by an increase in maintenance 74 |
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on effects include lameness and reduced milk fat production,” says Dr Kirkland. Supplementing diets with energy-dense nutrients like rumen-protected fats is the most effective way to help meet energy requirements while not adding to the acid load in the rumen. When compared to cereals, a proven calcium salt fat supplement like Megalac has around 2.5times the concentration of energy,
“On the other hand, the high-C16:0 (palmitic acid) supplements are effective at stimulating milk fat production and may be of interest under heat stress conditions where milk fat often declines. However, palmitic acid can cause partitioning of nutrients away from body fat resulting in lower body condition which may not be desirable,” he concludes. “By understanding the impact these key fatty acids have on specific areas of performance, farmers can better target overall herd productivity while also meeting cow energy demands during hotter months.”
www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
| Livestock
Cream of the crop crowned champions C
elebration was in full supply as judges tapped out the cream of the crop at this year’s Royal Bath & West Show – and it was clear exhibitors were glad to be back.
Dairy stock kick-started the interbreed championships on Thursday (2 June) with the dairy individual interbreed championship, and it was a longawaited win for the Guernsey breed. The coveted supreme champion title went to Yeovilbased Richard Norton and Polly Whetham’s Je-taime Double L Bijou, shown by close friend and showring familiar, Neil Sales. “It’s unheard of – it’s usually between the Holstein and Jersey,” said Mr Sales. “So we’re all thrilled and it’s great for the breed to come to the fore.” Now in her third lactation and yielding 32 litres/day, the supreme champion is homebred - out of show cow, Brymor Bijou 39, and sired by Pine Ridge Double L. “She’s performing really well at home and in the ring,” said Mr Sales. “She’s won and been placed at numerous shows including here as a calf in 2018, and in the same year, taking reserve champion at the All Breeds All Britain Show.” For the Norman and Sales’ families this is a shared win. “I’ve been enjoying the show for the best part of 40 years,” said Mr Sales. “But this is mine and Richard’s first interbreed supreme champion at the Royal Bath & West Show; it means a lot to us and the whole team, next stop Royal Cornwall.” Reserve champion was awarded to the senior cow Cancourt Peppermint 3 PI, a Brown Swiss from Lilylane Farms in Somerset. Now in calf, she will compete locally and at The Dairy Show in October. Into Friday (3 June) and it was a big day for the interbreed championships across the four sections. Scooping the supreme champion beef animal was Chris and Nicky White’s British Limousin cow, Frogmore Nicola. “It’s our first interbreed win at the Royal Bath & West Show,” said Mr White. “I grew up in Castle Cary so this feels like a home-coming and to win supreme champion at home is marvellous.” Homebred in Morton-in-Marsh, Gloucestershire, at five and a half years old and 1,060kg, Nicola has produced two calves – Frogmore Rebecca and Frogmore Sophie - for the 40-strong Frogmore herd, with her third calf www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
expected in August. And the supreme champion’s lineage is decorated, with her dam Frogmore Helen winning the acclaimed interbreed supreme champion at the Royal Welsh Show in 2015. “She’s done fantastically well here and elsewhere,” said Mr White. “Last year she took interbreed supreme champion at the Morton-in-Marsh Show and at the Frome Show.” Reserve interbreed went to the impressive Vexour 1 Phantom, a five year-old Hereford bull owned by the Mitchell family in Dorset. His show streak also included native interbreed champion, Hereford male champion and Hereford breed champion. Meanwhile, in the sheep lines, the Devon-based Alford family took the supreme champion title when their Foxhill Charollais shearling ewe was tapped out under judge Brian Dallyn. “She’s faultless in conformation and locomotion,” said Mr Dallyn. “There’s great length, quality in the backend and she’s sharp about the head – she paraded very well.” Shown by Will Price, the shearling ewe preceded her interbreed victory with the taking of breed champion in the Charollais’ South West feature show, before going on to take interbreed continental champion. “We’re off to the Royal Cornwall next week, followed by the Royal Highland and the Royal Welsh,” said Mr Price. “It’s great to be back out at major summer shows again.” Reserve spot was given to Matthew Gray and his partner Louise Crowther’s homebred Polled Dorset ram lamb, Buckenhill Escobar. “He has great scope and fantastic growth for his age,” said Mr Dallyn. “He’s a fantastic representation of the breed – just beaten over the line by the presence of the Charollais.” Stepping into the ring with the ram lamb, Mr Gray was delighted with his Polled Dorset’s performance. “He’s done brilliantly – he took breed champion, then native interbreed champion and now
reserve supreme champion,” he said. “It’s great to be back out and catching up with people; next we’re off to Three Counties Show and the Royal Welsh.” Over the course of the event, national shows were hosted: The Zwartbles Sheep Association’s national show had a rollicking turnout. Under judge and breeder Martin Preston, it saw John Case’s shearling ewe take national champion, and Sam Inn’s shearling ewe respectfully take reserve. For the Bleu du Maine Sheep Society’s national show there was the addition of the Millennium Bleus; a Beltex / Bleu du Maine cross. Under seasoned judge Glenn Baird, it was Archie Stamp and Haydon House Partnership’s Bleu du Maine ram, Perdi Singy Boy, that was tapped out as national show champion. Reserve champion went to Kate Esler’s shearling ewe Haydon Viv. Millennium Bleu national show champion was awarded to Richard Pilkington’s ram, while Archie Stamp’s ewe Bowbridge Tia took reserve champion. In with the pigs and the line-up for interbreed supreme champion featured the rare British Lop pig and the lesser known Duroc, a breed originating from the USA. To the delight of the Loveless family from Dorset, it was Hayley’s Duroc boar Hazeway Thunder – which claimed top spot as interbreed supreme champion, pipping her father’s Large White boar, Portbredy King David, to the post. “I beat my dad – I’m really happy,” she said. The August born boar was on his first time out. “I’m really pleased with him; I selected him because he’s got strong legs, good topline and underline – he’s got lots of power,” she explained. “We’re off to Royal Cornwall next week and then onto the Great Yorkshire Show.” Judge Julian Newth was impressed with the supreme champion line up. “They were all strong contenders,” he said. “But the supreme champion and reserve went to the pigs with the most presence.” June 2022 | Farming Monthly |
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| Education and Training
New goat class introduced at country's oldest college-run Stock Skills competition GRICULTURE, equine and new for 2022, Animal Management students put on an impressive show at Bishop Burton College's 61st Stock Skills competition.
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The event is the oldest college-run competition of its kind in the country and sees students from Bishop Burton College in East Yorkshire, competing in a number of different disciplines. The idea behind the competition is to enable students to experience what it is like to prepare for a large show and they compete in beef, dairy, sheep and equine classes. For the first time in the history of the prestigious competition, a new goat class was also introduced this year, allowing more students than ever to take part in the event. Students practice grooming and clipping skills and ensure their animal's diet means it is in optimum condition.
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Farming Monthly | June 2022
The students taking part prepare for months, developing the skills and knowledge needed not only to compete, but also to take into the workplace when they complete their studies at the college.
The event, held at the Bishop Burton campus, near Beverley, was attended by students' friends and families, along with dignitaries and industry representatives. Chief Executive and Principal, Bill Meredith, in announcing the winners,
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| Education and Training Sheep Class 1st Edwin Jackson 2nd Jack Luscombe 3rd Ben Parsonage
Beef Class 1 1st Joshua Blenkiron 2nd Mattie Wilkinson 3rd Jacob Lester/Madeleine De Hamel (joint)
Beef Class 2 1st Molly Cook and James Cranston/ William Lightfoot (joint 1st) 3rd Matthew Harrison
Dairy Class 1 told the assembled crowd: "I'd like to congratulate all the students who have taken part and thank the staff who have helped make this such a wonderful occasion. "I'd also like to thank all our visitors who are here today – parents, families, friends, employers and supporters. Stock Skills is a real tradition here at the college and it would not be possible without the support of all of you." Under the guidance of master judge, Bob Richardson, officials named Matthew Anderson as the overall agriculture winner. Matthew has had a spectacular year having also being recognised in the Young Farmer of the Year category in the most recent Yorkshire Post Rural Awards.
Daisy Tinsley was named the overall Equine Champion and Lexi Nelson placed first in the new goat class.
1st Matthew Anderson
Bishop Burton, which includes Riseholme College, is one of the finest land-based colleges in the country.
3rd Hannah Senior
Both campuses have recently launched Institutes of Technology, which pioneer the development higher level, technical skills in precision agriculture and agrifood technologies.
Dairy Class 2
To find out more about the college and the course it runs, visitwww.bishopburton.ac.uk Bishop Burton College Stock Skills Winners 2022
2nd Matt King
1st Luke Brown 2nd Madeleine Welford 3rd Chloe Yarrow
Goat Class 1st Place – Lexi Nelson 2nd Place – Hannah Holmes 3rd Place – Jennifer Wouters
Equine Section 1 – Tia Parkinson Section 2 – Grace Gale Section 3 – Daisy Tinsley Section 4 – Katelyn Smith
Groom's Award – Grace Gale Reserve Champion Equine – Tia Parkinson Reserve Champion Agriculture – Edwin Jackson Overall Champion Equine – Daisy Tinsley Overall Champion Agriculture – Matthew Anderson www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
June 2022 | Farming Monthly |
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| Muck & Slurry
Processing of waste - The RedUnit industrial grinder for the feed industry T
here is waste in almost every production area. This is also the case with the production of bread. In large bakeries and supermarkets there are tons of bread every day that have to be sorted out for various reasons. However, this waste contains many valuable raw materials and is far too good “for the bin.”
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Excess bread is a valuable raw material for the feed industry
Some companies have therefore specialized in buying this excess bread as a raw material for their own product and are processing it. To do this, it is crushed, sieved and dried in several process steps. The end product serves as an important basis for high-quality cattle feed. A German bread processing
plant had a problem with oversized grain that clogged the sieves and had required removal. These three to four tons of oversized grain were placed in a mobile shredding machine, but this solution was not ideal because plenty of waste was incurred.
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| Muck & Slurry hardened ripper rotors of the RedUnit. With the right granulation, these foreign bodies can be removed without residue in a subsequent step, as required by the applicable feed regulations. After installing the RedUnit in the customer’s system and making individual settings tailored to the production process, it performs reliably and thus helps the customer to eliminate oversized grain. In addition, it shreds the material into optimal granulation for the subsequent processes. It is even possible to increase the throughput. After a few days of testing, it became clear that the RedUnit was the ideal solution for this application and that the rental system could be dismantled. However, the customer never wanted to be without the new product one more day and bought the built-in RedUnit immediately. On the way to Industry 4.0: Platformindependent control unit of the RedUnit Alternative solution to reduce the waste in bread processing plant Awila, a company based in Lastrup, Germany, supplies complete solutions for these companies. They searched for an alternative solution to reduce the waste in the German bread processing plant. A previously tested hammer mill was not efficient enough because first tests showed that the bread deliveries often contain metal parts such as knives, dough scrapers and whole baking trays.
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During their search, they came together with Vogelsang and quickly decided on the RedUnit. Vogelsang has a number of rental machines for test purposes, so that the customer can extensively test the machine in its system first before it decides to buy the new product. The RedUnit XRL186-520QD as a system solution was selected for the test in the bread processing plant. The first test onsite showed that even the pieces of metal parts were not a problem for the
Vogelsang has equipped the RedUnit with an intelligent control unit. This means that the complete system can be easily integrated into any plant using the plug & play principle. This simplifies commissioning on-site. As soon as the user connects the RedUnit to the power, the modules automatically communicate via the platform-independent standard protocol OPC UA. All components and their technical values can be viewed on a touchscreen.
June 2022 | Farming Monthly |
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Grants of up to £250k for Slurry Storage Revealed by Government
airy farmers in England should check their slurry storage requirements after the government revealed details about the Slurry Infrastructure grant opening for applications this autumn.
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Landowners and tenant farmers with less than six months' storage will be eligible to apply for a grant ranging from £25,000 to £250,000. This can be used to help replace, build new or expand existing slurry stores to provide six months of storage. Successful applicants could receive a maximum 50% grant towards the cost of: •
A range of slurry store types
•
Impermeable covers
•
Extra equipment like pumps, pipes and safety equipment
Farmers can check their slurry storage requirements based on current animal numbers using tools such as AHDB's slurry wizard https://ahdb.org.uk/ knowledge-library/slurry-wizard . This is the first round of grant funding
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from the RPA for slurry storage. It will prioritise projects that have the most significant environmental impact, focusing on those located near protected sites. The RPA will provide more details on prioritised locations before applications open. The application process is expected to commence in the autumn and will consist of two stages, firstly to prioritise applications before making a full application in the second stage. Commenting on the announcement, RABDF Chairman Di Wastenage said: We have been looking forward to the launch of this grant scheme which will provide dairy farmers with the opportunity to really think about their future storage needs.
"We urge farmers to prepare for this first stage of grants by checking their current slurry storage capacity and, if they think they may be eligible, to start enquiring about relevant slurry infrastructure and necessary planning permissions. It may be worth seeking expert help in the design and location, should a new slurry store be on the agenda," she added. Mrs Wastenage continued: "By 2027, all slurry stores must be covered as part of the clean air strategy. so, even if you have enough storage capacity and may not be eligible for funding in round one, it is worth listening out to see whether you may be eligible in future rounds." Keep posted at www.rabdf.co.uk/news for the latest on the grants available and all dairy news.
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| Muck & Slurry
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June 2022 | Farming Monthly |
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G T Bunning and Sons appoints Josh Ward to product support technician osh Ward has been appointed to the role of product support technician for leading manure spreader manufacturer, G T Bunning and Sons.
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Beeston, Norfolk. He started there when he was 16 years old, and this experience has provided a sound technical base for his current position. “I completed my four-year
spreaders and Manitou telehandlers. “I joined Bunning in 2017 and was recently offered the opportunity to take on the service engineer role for the spreaders.” Mr Ward’s training in engineering, and familiarity of attending breakdowns and call outs in the field, were key attributes in making him an ideal fit for the role. “I work with a lot of our end users, talking to them about any issues they may have and diagnosing them over the phone. I’ll talk the customer through steps to fix the issue which can range from a hydraulic fault to assistance with weigh cell, Isobus and variable rate systems. If it can’t be fixed over the phone, I’ll find out the cause of a problem and as much information as possible before sending a technician out,” explains Mr Ward. Another part of Mr Ward’s role is dealing with warranty claims and supporting dealers to become more knowledgeable on the products so they can fix problems and provide machine updates autonomously. “One of the best things about working for a tightknit company like Bunning is that problems flagged up by customers are fed straight back into the drawing office and directors, so everyone is aware of what is going on in the field and changes can be made very quickly to rectify issues.
Mr Ward is based at the company’s factory in Gressenhall, Norfolk, and gained his practical knowledge through a John Deere apprenticeship at Ben Burgess in 82 |
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apprenticeship to become master technician and worked on all equipment sold by the dealer from tractors to combines, irrigators, potato equipment, manure
“The best part of my job is meeting different people from the north of Scotland to the south of England and abroad. In the future, I will have the opportunity to travel to some of our export countries to work with our distributors and end users there. Everyone I meet loves the product which makes my job really enjoyable,” concludes Mr Ward.
www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
| Muck & Slurry
ir and water quality are of increasing concern, with regulation growing ever tighter to prevent pollution – but grants are being offered to help and farmers should take advantage of them.
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According to Flossy Freeman-Inglis at the Central Association of Agricultural Valuers (CAAV), Nitrate Vulnerable Zone rules now apply across most of the UK, and the loss of phosphate into water has rapidly become a major concern. Livestock producers should expect rules to require six months’ slurry storage – for many that will require significant capital investment. Defra has already offered support for investment in improved slurry management ahead of a major grant scheme later this year, specifically for covered stores with six months capacity. Scotland is also offering support for covering slurry stores. “If you’re going to be required to do something by law in future, you might as well take advantage of the grants to help pay for it,” says Ms Freeman-Inglis. So what might this Slurry Investment Grant cover? “Although full details are yet to be unveiled, the money is expected to be for new or substantially enlarged or reconstructed stores with an impermeable fixed, flexible or floating cover. Clay lined or earth bank lagoons might also qualify, providing they have leak protection,” explains Ms FreemanInglis. Planning permission – where it’s not a fundamental obstacle - is a delay, so the CAAV is urging the government to give supporting permitted development rights to assist the improvements it is seeking. www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
So far, so good - but what’s the score for tenant farmers? Other schemes expect claimants to have five years’ use of the store, so some tenants may need to extend their term to qualify. Of course, the grant scheme is unlikely to cover the full cost of works, so what happens if the landlord or tenant cannot fund the remainder? In those cases, it’s worth examining whether the present livestock business is likely to last, says Jeremy Moody, secretary and adviser to the CAAV. “That may prompt discussion about change in the business or even retirement and succession planning. And if that’s the case, then look at whether that is best done while the Lump Sum Scheme is available.” Under the Lump Sum scheme, tenants can take their future Basic Payments as a single sum, providing they retire and give up their tenancy by 2024. “It can lubricate negotiations, but the deadline is 30 September 2022 so you need to think about change now;
don’t leave it until the Slurry Investment Grant opens as by then it may be too late.” For more information visit www.caav.org.uk
Lowlander® Manure Spreaders 3 Year Warranty |Detailsavailableuponrequest
TwinVertical Auger TVA | 6 – 40 tonnes HorizontalBeater & SpinningDisc HBD | 8 – 40 tonnes
www.gtbunning.co.uk Tel: +44 (0) 1362 860352
bunning spreaders
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| Machinery
CLAAS intensifies cooperation with AgXeed and starts initial sales activities LAAS has increased its involvement with AgXeed B.V. having participated in the Series A financing round of the Dutch startup. In addition, a first distribution and service cooperation has been initiated with CLAAS Vertriebsgesellschaft mbH (CLAAS Distribution) based in HerzebrockClarholz, Germany.
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Innovations GmbH supports innovative companies that want to play a key role in shaping the future of agriculture and gives them access to CLAAS. The cooperation between CLAAS and AgXeed was established after the first investment in Spring 2021
and has been continuously expanded since then. With the follow-up investment, CLAAS secures further access to innovative technologies for autonomous agricultural machines. At the same time, AgXeed benefits from the international network and the
After the first successful joint projects, CLAAS is intensifying further cooperation with Dutch startup AgXeed for the development and commercialization of autonomous agricultural machines. To this end, CLAAS, through its investment company Seed Green Innovations GmbH, has participated in the company's Series A financing round together with the venture capital investor Amathaon Capital from Munich and a company from the AMAZONE Group based at Hasbergen-Gaste, Germany. As an investment company within the CLAAS Group, Seed Green 84 |
Farming Monthly | June 2022
www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
| Machinery technology and enable extensive testing in their own operating structures. For this purpose, CVG has already included two AgBots in the FIRST CLAAS RENTAL portfolio.
tracked version was presented in 2020, a three-wheeled AgBot for orchards and vineyards followed in 2021, which was recently joined by the four-wheeled AgBot, both of which are 55kW (74hp). All vehicles are diesel-electric. Together with CLAAS and the other partners Amazone and Amathaon, AgXeed intends to further accelerate the development of efficient and holistic agricultural process solutions in the coming years.
The Dutch start-up AgXeed offers an intelligent, sustainable and
expertise of the CLAAS Group in many areas, from development to sales and service. For example, CLAAS Vertriebsgesellschaft mbH (CVG) signed a distribution agreement with AgXeed in May. Following this, from Summer 2022 selected CLAAS dealers in Germany and Switzerland will become distribution and service partners of AgXeed. In addition to the sale of AgBots, rental models will also be available which should make it easier for customers to get started with autonomous agricultural
fully autonomous farming system with scalable hardware, virtual planning tools and comprehensive data models, making it one of the leading companies in these areas in Europe today. After the 115kW (154hp)
GRASS MANAGER
GRASS MANAGER-SR
PNEUMATICSTAR-MD
PNEUMATICSTAR-STI
AEROSTAR-CLASSIC
ROTARYSTAR
NEW
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AEROSTAR-EXACT
Grassland Harrows (MD & SR), Seeders (MD, STI , MD-SR & PRO) & Weeders (Classic, Exact, Rotation & Fusion)
PNEUMATICSTAR-MD-SR
PNEUMATICSTAR-PRO
AEROSTAR-ROTATION
•Breaking crusts with high working speed •Weeding in many crops as soybeans, maize, grain,… •Soil aeration •Weeding in mulch-till •Encourages tillering
AEROSTAR-FUSION NEW
•Weeding of special crops (vegetables and herbs) and hillcrops etc. •Extremely precise adjustment possibilities •The adjustment of aggressivity is done without bowden cables •The special frame design ensures smooth operation •Individually placeable support wheels and a unique, adjustable frame. •Available to order for 2023
June 2022 | Farming Monthly |
E: sales@terrington-machinery.co.uk
www.terrington-machinery.co.uk
TERRINGTON MACHINERY LTD Tel: 01553-828083 or 07966-417720
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| Machinery
VADERSTAD LAUNCHES CARRIER XT 425-626
aderstad has added Carrier XT to its portfolio of disc cultivators, used for highspeed primary tillage and seedbed preparation. Hydraulically rotating disc axles help to increase the disc angle towards the soil, so penetrability is maximised. This allows a full cut-out at a shallower working depth or reduced soil flow at deeper working depths. Both factors contribute to lower diesel consumption.
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Farming Monthly | June 2022
Carrier XT can either be fitted with the 450mm disc, 470mm TrueCut disc or the ultra-shallow CrossCutter Disc. Each disc is built from high-quality Swedish V-55 steel, ensuring a high wear resistance and long-lasting field performance.
XT models can be equipped with a range of both single and double packer options. The new Carrier XT has its official premiere at the German field exhibition DLG Field Days in June. It will be available to order from October 2022.
The Carrier XT is available in three different working widths: 4.25m, 5.25m or 6.25m and can either be delivered as trailed or mounted versions. All Carrier
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| Machinery
The new Carrier Carrier XT has the ability to optimise the disc angles to its working depth. This creates a full cut-out at a shallower working depth or reduced soil flow at a deeper working depth. Both of these factors contribute to a lower diesel consumption.
www.farmingmonthly.co.uk Learn more at vaderstad.com
XT
Carrier XT can either be delivered as a trailed or mounted version. The working width is 4.25, 5.25 or 6.25m. All Carrier XT models can be equipped with a range of both single and double packer options.
June 2022 | Farming Monthly |
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| Machinery
ZETOR MAJOR UPDATES FOR 2022 etor Major model range are one of the most popular in the brand’s product portfolio with customers. MAJOR CL 80 model retains the features of its predecessors that gave it the reputation of a life-long tractor. For the year 2022, the Brno-based tractor manufacturer has made a number of new features and technical innovations. The most striking one is the advance to Stage V emission standard. In addition, the cabin was redesigned to offer better comfort.
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‘MAJOR CL 80 model is equipped with a four-cylinder diesel engine TCD 2.9 L4 with a turbocharger by DEUTZ AG with the power of 75 hp. The emission system has been innovated with a diesel particulate filter (DPF) which together with exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) complies with Stage V emission standard,’ says Marek Buchar, Technical Director, ZETOR TRACTORS a.s. As a result of highpressure fuel injection with electronic control (Common-Rail), the engine offers polished and quiet run and
economical operation parameters. Thanks to a very good torque reserve, it keeps its performance without the need to downshift frequently. To offer better comfort, customers can now choose from two comfortable and spacious cabin versions. Both have been designed to respect practical use. •
STANDARD cabin offers a version with FOPS (FallingObjects Protective Structures) and a sunroof.
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| Machinery
•
LUX cabin has standard airconditioning and just like STANDARD cab it offers FOPS and a sunroof. Seat with mechanical suspension, arm rests and head support is included along with a foldable passenger seat.
In addition, LUX cabin offers steering column that can be tilted and adjusted for height, improved
ergonomics of rear threepoint hitch control and PTO mode, switches identical to higher model ranges, nonslip foot pedal pads and improved system of differential lock control. A new very user-friendly feature is using the same key to start the engine and lock the door. Work with equipment is made easier by universal slots to mount equipment displays, holes for equipment cables or three-pin socket for equipment power supply. Tractors of the MAJOR model range have been proven to work well with the front loader. And now there are also other tools in the innovated MAJOR CL to make work with the loader easier,
such as set-up for joystick control and addition of roof low-beam lamps. MAJOR CL 80 is equipped with a fully synchronized four-gear transmission with three-stage reduction and mechanical reverser offering 12+12 gears. External hydraulics consists of two circuits; oil supply amounts to 50 l/m. The implementation of Stage V engine resulted in design improvements of air inlet, engine cooling and mechanical regulation of hydraulics. As an option, the tractor can be equipped with front PTO, front threepoint hitch, beacons and different size of tyres. ‘Tractors of the MAJOR model range are still universal helpers,’ says Petr Konštacký, Sales and Marketing Director, ZETOR TRACTORS a.s. ‘They can be used in small and medium farms, for animal breeding and crop growing as well as road maintenance. These tractors are reliable, easy to operate, simple to maintain and popular mainly for their simple design and low operation costs.’ he adds.
ZETOR MAJOR CL80 LUX Spec Includes,
Air-Con Passenger Seat Adjustable Steering Improved Controls Deluxe Seat
*Tractor shown includes options at extra cost
NIGEL (South) 07718 537414 or HAMISH (North) 07876 730719 Zetor UK Ltd, B5 Paragon Way, Coventry, CV7 9QS www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
www.zetor.co.uk
Tractor is Zetor.| Since 891946. June 2022 | Farming Monthly
| Machinery
Performance boost in Case IH’s Luxxum tractor upgrade C
ase IH’s Luxxum tractors have been upgraded with a new engine and other features, continuing its position as a key choice amongst all-purpose utility tractors. The three all-rounder models, designed for mid-size livestock and mixed farms and delivering 101, 110 and 117hp, now offer even better performance while meeting latest, Stage V, engine emissions regulations.
response and start capability under heavy loads. “The Luxxum is already a very popular model with mixed and livestock farms in both upland and lowland areas” says Can Tümer, Product Marketing Manager. “Thanks to the latest technology, these improvements give it more punch on a slope or with a big trailer. Add the other upgrades and you get a truly excellent all-rounder”.
result, forward visibility of operator is unaffected as is tractor’s manoeuvrability. The Compact HIeSCR2 after-treatment system is maintenance-free, which means no replacement of components or less mechanical cleaning during the whole lifecycle. More new features and new L series front loader Luxxum Stage V tractors now come with some new options, emphasising its leading position in the all-purpose utility market. An optional leather steering wheel, and carpet on the cab floor, will be available as it is on its bigger brothers, as will two new worklights, increasing the total number to ten, for easier and safer operation at night and on dark days. As an all-purpose utility tractor, front loader operation is key for to the Luxxum’s owners. The new machines will have a fully compatible electrohydraulic joystick that speeds up work rates. It combines the front loader controls with those for the transmission, so there is no need to switch between the Multicontroller and joystick.
Still paired with the ActiveDrive 4 smooth-shifting semi-automatic transmission, the new FPT Stage V fourcylinder engine provides more power and greater efficiency. The new larger capacity F5 engine is a 3.6 litre, taking up the same space as previous engine, which maintains the Luxxum’s compact overall size. The new engine has a number of performance benefits, including increased power output at the lower end of the range, and up to 5% higher torque levels, delivering higher productivity and better driveability. Maximum torque is now hit at the lower engine speed of 1,300 rpm, which improves load 90 |
Farming Monthly | June 2022
New exhaust after-treatment system The new Luxxum tractors also get a new exhaust after-treatment system, the maintenance-free “Compact HI-eSCR2” solution. To meet Stage V legislation, this integrates a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC), a maintenance-free particulate filter and a selective catalyst reduction (SCR) unit. The engine's low rate of exhaust gas recirculation, which at under 10% currently is the best on the market, helps optimise combustion while minimising the SCR’s system in a single compact layout, all located under the hood. As a
The joystick works with new L series front loaders, which come in different ranges to meet different customer needs. The ‘A’ range is a functional, simple, reliable and economical product, while the ‘U’ range is ideal for everyday handling tasks. The flagship ‘T’ range is designed for intensive handling work. A wide range of attachments are also available. Ordering a suitable loader for a new Luxxum Stage V tractor has been made even simpler and smarter, as it has for its stable-mates Puma, Maxxum, Vestrum and Farmall C. The new L Series can now be ordered through the Case IH dealer configurator digital software as a single purchase of the selected tractor and its chosen matched loader. The new tractors and loaders are available now through Case IH dealers across Europe. www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
| Machinery
ase IH has topped its range of variable chamber round balers with the new RB HD Pro. Designed for larger livestock farmers and contractors, the new machine produces higher density bales in a wide range of crops, from wet silage to dry straw. For top reliability and throughput, it has been fitted with heavy duty components and fewer moving parts.
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“We know that for farmers and contractors who use their balers a lot typically 10,000 bales a year or more durability and reliability are really important. With their needs in mind we have looked at every aspect of the baler, not only to produce the best bales from every crop quickly, but also to make sure that they get them time after time after time,” says Michal Jankowski, Case IH Product Marketing Manager. “To do this, we have strengthened and enlarged the rolls, shafts and tailgate and introduced a more powerful gearbox and driveline – which also increases the numbers of bales per hour. In some www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
places we have simplified things to help reliability and maintenance, for example reducing the number of driveline chains and sledge rolls.” Able to handle up to 30 tonnes per hour, the RB HD Pro has been designed to manage everything from straw and hay
“We have completely re-designed the bale chamber and belt path,” adds Michal, “to give us neatly formed, very dense bales that will stack well and efficiently. Bale size, wraps and density pressure can all be set up on same screen page in the cab”. In developing and testing the new baler, it has been put through its paces with farmers around the world to understand and match their needs and priorities. 150,000 bales were produced in a wide variety of crops and weather conditions in the testing programme.
to haylage and silage at different cut lengths, thanks to new no-slip dual drive rolls and a wide range of knife sets selectable from the cab. An extra-wide diameter rotor helps prevent blockages while a new Active Drop Floor means any that do get through can be cleared quickly.
The new balers come in two bale size options: the RB456 HD Pro makes 120cmwide bales from 90cm to 165cm in diameter while the RB466 HD Pro’s are also 120cm wide but from 90cm up to 190cm in diameter. Each size comes with three rotor options: a feeding rotor, 13 cutter knives or 25 cutter knives, making six models in all. The new RB HD Pro can be ordered from July 2022 onwards for the spring season 2023. June 2022 | Farming Monthly |
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| Machinery
Pontchateau Now Even More A Major Asset for Bobcat After beating production records in 2021, the plant in Loire-Atlantique, France for Bobcat rigid telehandlers has given itself the means to go to the next level
elehandlers have been part of the DNA of the Pontchateau site in LoireAtlantique in France for more than half a century. Before the year 2000, the factory used to manufacture the Sambron range of products, but after a succession of changes in ownership, it is Bobcat telehandlers that now come off the production line.
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meet the effects of substantial growth in the brand’s activity (+75% between 2017 and 2022). This was also accompanied by a reorganization of the manufacturing process. For the telehandlers, the journey always starts in the design office. This office has
a team of 40 employees operating from Pontchateau, together with another team based in the Czech Republic, at the Doosan Bobcat European headquarters. On the production line, the machines start to take shape during the mechanical welding operations, which
All Bobcat rigid telehandlers for the world market are manufactured here, including 29 models split between ranges for the construction and agricultural markets. The factory was originally built on an 82,000 m2 plot of land and was extended in 2019 to meet higher demand. “In 2016, as our logistics capacity reached saturation and demand grew, Bobcat defined a 3 year expansion plan for the facility, representing 4 million euros of investment," explains Jerome Miermont, Site Director for the Bobcat Pontchateau facility. Completed in 2019, with the addition of 13,000 m2 of extra space and a new 1500 m2 plus logistics building, these developments have made it possible to 92 |
Farming Monthly | June 2022
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| Machinery Up to 17 Machines Per Day The assembly line is organized around 58 stations. To save time and space, a team in the kitting workshop has prepared the necessary components for each station in advance. On the subassembly line, various machine components (the engine nacelle, the cab etc.) are assembled to gradually build the machine on the main line, which alone comprises 17 different stations. Even before the tyres are fitted, the carriage is filled with oil and programmed. This is followed by the fitting of the mudguards, a performance test and the installation of the tyres. The final assembly station is reserved for the installation of the hood and the stickers, then the machine goes through a test phase (static and dynamic) for four hours.
are strategically organized in two lines: one for the boom, and the other for the frame. After the steel parts have been laser cut, they are bent into the right shape - for example, to form the two half-sections of the boom in U form, after which the next step is welding. "To optimize production, we have equipped ourselves with two larger robots, each of which welds all the frames, saving 30% in time. The last
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robot, representing an investment of 850,000 Euros, arrived last September," Jerome Miermont explains. The various parts of the telehandlers are then sent to the blast chamber for shot blasting, before being painted. The staff carry out a detailed technical procedure (priming, fading time, lacquer application and oven drying) to ensure a high-quality finish.
Up to 17 machines can be assembled daily. "Last year we produced 2658 machines. This is a record number, well above the planned target of 2455 units," Jerome Miermont adds. But with an estimated annual production capacity of 3500 machines in 2022, there is still space for growth. The Pontchateau plant intends to double its activity by 2025. For more information on Bobcat and Bobcat products, please visit www.bobcat.com
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Nicholson Machinery Celebrates 50 Years In Farming
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his month, Norfolk based farming equipment manufacturer Nicholson Machinery celebrates its 50th anniversary.
Nicholson Machinery was founded in June 1972 by David Nicholson and is celebrating 50 years of designing and manufacturing a range of harvesting and processing equipment. Based in East Anglia,
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Nicholson remains a family run business and has established a strong reputation within the global farming industry, exporting around 65% of products. David Nicholson founded the business, alongside Sidney Cornwall his previous boss, after identifying an opportunity with local farmers, who lacked the technical engineering support required to
repair farming equipment. Back then, farmers did not have the amount of equipment they have now, so as the farming industry grew, the repairs side of Nicholson developed into manufacturing machinery. From these beginnings, Nicholson now employs 21 people, including family members and several members of staff who have been with the company for over 25 years.
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| Machinery Nicholson Machinery is best known for designing and manufacturing its Onion Top Tailer, which was the original product to market and remains the best top tailer available. Recognised as the market leader for cleaning to produce unsurpassed market presentation, the Nicholson Top Tailer is used all over the world by packers needing to maintain high customer standards. There has been significant change in the farming industry over the past 50 years. An increase in global population means that farmers now need to supply more produce than ever. It has been predicted that by 2050, farmers all around the globe will need to increase their yields by more than 70% in order to ensure that there is enough produce for demand. Nicholson continues to invest in research and development, developing innovative technology to support the ever-changing farming landscape. Nicholson Machinery is incredibly proud to be reaching this 50 year milestone, celebrating the hard work and dedication of the Nicholson family, as well as all members of staff, past and present, who have helped Nicholson establish a strong reputation globally for its quality farming machinery. Founder of Nicholson Machinery, David Nicholson, has said “I started the company from nothing and not knowing what the future held, I am very proud that we now export worldwide and that we are renowned specialists in the equipment we have developed over the years.” Sales Director Danny Nicholson added that “The company has produced six world Patents over the years, which we are all extremely proud of.” Purchasing Manager Nathan Nicholson has stated that “the invaluable knowledge and experience our father has passed onto us has created a strong platform to enable us to take Nicholson Machinery into the future.” Clare Nicholson, Head of Finance, added that “the past two years have been tough for everyone, so as Nicholson Machinery turns 50, I couldn’t be prouder of each and every member of the team.”
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| Machinery
®
New Next Generation Cat 906, 907, and 908 Compact Wheel Loaders offer simple intuitive controls, featurepacked options, and an all-round better drive performance
uilding on the success of the Cat ® M-Series Compact Wheel Loaders, the new Next Generation Cat 906, 907, and 908 wheel loaders boast a reengineered operator’s station, leveraging exclusive Cat technologies to improve operator experience and provide larger wheel loader model comfort on a smaller platform. Featuring the new Cat C2.8 engine, the upgraded drive and powertrain deliver faster roading speeds and drive train performance. The hydraulics and structures have gone through an overhaul, making these new models an optimal fit for many applications.
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Improved operator experience The new sealed and pressurized cab improves the operator experience, while keeping previous design functional aspects like raised floor pedals and two doors to make cab cleaning easier. Optimum visibility is achieved with larger standard side mirrors, optional parabolic lens electric and heated mirrors, and front and rear camera options. New single-piece front and rear windshields offer 60% better wiper coverage. Seat mounted controls improve operating ergonomics of the new 96 |
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loaders. A multifunction joystick controls travel direction and speed, proportional auxiliary flow, differential lock, and constant hydraulic flow without operators removing their hand from the joystick, elevating operating safety. Like larger Cat wheel loaders, companies will be able to choose from a range of seats, including a new premium heated and ventilated seat. A first for this class size, new in-cab-programmable kickouts with high-definition rotary sensors mounted to the loader arms better protect operators from unwanted shock and vibration due to buckets striking the ground and/or hitting dump stops at max height. Proper kickout operation also saves up to 20% of bucket cutting edge life. Rather than leaving the cab for setting, the operator remains inside the cab while setting upper, lower and www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
| Machinery engine speed, ideal when working with hydromechanical attachments. Upgraded powertrain Specifically designed for Cat products, the new Cat C2.8 engine delivers the same 55.7-kW (74-hp) gross power as the previous engine with 13% more torque, resulting in roading performance and tractive effort improvements. The Cat C2.8 meets EU Stage V and U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final emission standards with alternative emissions packages available. Its shifton-the-go transmission offers increased roading speeds of 40 km/h (25 mph), and larger fuel tank capacities of 30% for the 906 and 12% for the 907 and 908 deliver extended work cycles.
attachment kickout positions at the touch of a button. Cylinder snubbing is also enabled to provide the operator with added protection. The heart of the new cab design is the Next Generation control monitor, which offers a range of real-time machine operating information. It allows the operator to configure hydrostatic transmission response, auto engine idle shutdown and a utility powertrain mode that provides operators with a more intuitive means of controlling ground and
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When working in dusty environments, the new reversing-fan option assists in keeping cooling cores clean for more efficient temperature control. Through an in-cab soft-touch button, the system can be turned off, set to operate in an automatic mode or momentarily activated by the operator. Automatic mode uses the factory-setting to reverse direction for 10 seconds every 10 minutes. Frequency and duration of automatic reversing can be changed easily by the operator via the new control monitor. Enhanced hydraulics and structures To meet demand for increased
multifunctionality with lift and tilt while powering hydromechanical tools, these Next Generation wheel loaders feature a new standard pressure compensated valve, allowing operators to simultaneously control implements and operate hydromechanical attachments seamlessly. Increased working auxiliary pressures make work easier and improve steering to reduce operator fatigue. Modifications to the optional skid steer coupler improve visibility through the coupler when setting fork tines. In conjunction, realignment of the compact wheel loader fork carriage improves forward visibility. Bucket capacities have been increased across the range adding to the already impressive operating capacity legacy of the Cat machines. New for this class size, an optional Cat 908 high-lift configuration is available, perfect for customers operating in agricultural and industrial and waste markets. When combined with the reversing fan option, the high-lift configuration offers farmers increased operating efficiency and reliability. Available solid tires and the high lift configuration make the new 908 loader ideal for industrial and waste applications. Efficient, high-illumination LED lights options are now available for both working/roading and under-hood-service lights to better illuminate work areas in low-light conditions. Task-focused LED under-hood lighting simplifies servicing in poor ambient light. A unique resistor bank built into the body of Cat LED roading lights keep the lamp assembly warm enough to melt snow and ice, improving efficiency over conventional LED roading lights when operating in colder climates.
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| ATV
Vulnerable marshland landscape managed with the help of a Honda ATV A large area of former salt marsh with a complex system of creeks has been managed by cattle grazing for almost 500 years. The site includes Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) and avoiding ground damage is essential. For more than 30 years the management team has relied on Honda ATVs for efficient transport.
The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) manages the Old Hall Marshes Nature Reserve, near Tolleshunt D’Arcy on the Essex coast. The 650ha site includes 450ha inside the sea wall as well as 200ha which can be under water at high tide. The former salt marsh is managed by the same methods as it has been for 400–500 years, using cattle to keep vegetation in check. During that time the ancient
grazing area hasn’t been seeded or ploughed, and if livestock grazing wasn’t practised and the land was left to become a natural wilderness instead, then many rare species of wildlife would be lost. The ancient grazing marsh supports internationally important numbers of wintering waterfowl and provides safe feeding areas for brent geese. Breeding species include avocet, lapwing, and redshank on the grassland, while pochard and marsh harrier breed in the reed filled creeks. The reserve also hosts small populations of turtle doves and beach-nesting birds, such as the tern and ringed plover.
tenant farmer graze the site from May to December each year, and sheep are sometimes brought in during the winter. RSPB team members used to manage the livestock using two Honda ATVs, but now the farmer provides most of the livestock care. The RSPB still has some livestock on the site. A herd of eight hardy Konik ponies graze 30ha of reed and grass
Challenging terrain Lack of ground disturbance over the centuries has resulted in a landscape with thousands of huge ant hills, and these combine to form an area of SSSI. Undulating ground and the network of creeks makes access difficult. The land is carefully protected and, apart from travelling on foot, using lightweight Honda ATVs on large flotation tyres to avoid habitat damage through rutting and compaction is the only practical option for transport for the RSPB team. Livestock grazing
Revolutionising ATV & Asset Security A discreet ATV tracker that monitors the movements of your asset in real-time, allowing you to view status and usage history 24/7 with notification of unauthorised movements.
www.atvtrac.co.uk Get in touch: If you would like to know more information about ATVTrac or anything else please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
+44 (0) 1327 317 980 (Lines open 9am - 5:30pm)
Cattle belonging to a 98 |
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| ATV
Time savings
Exceptionally reliable
RSPB Old Hall Marshes Warden Neil Lincoln is one of the ATV’s main users. “It’s quick and convenient, and the light footprint means we can often take more direct routes across the marsh to work areas than would be possible in the pick-up.
The Honda ATVs are supplied by MKM Agriculture Ltd, and they operate on the reserve for two years during which they work almost 500 hours before being replaced. “The arrangement works well for us,” stressed Neil. “The cost to change at that point is reasonable, and we always have a modern, reliable machine which is covered by the manufacturer’s two-year warranty. This allows us to fix our costs of ownership and budget accurately.”
“Without it, we would have to do much more on foot which would reduce our efficiency, and we would rely more on the pick-up which would increase our operating costs. The Honda Fourtrax is ideal for our work and saves a lot of time.” scrub – eating the grass and trampling the reeds to create an ideal habitat for birds to thrive. Convenient solution Two full-time RSPB staff look after the reserve. All team members undergo formal ATV operator training so that they can use the machine safely although only two are regular users. The current machine is a Honda Fourtrax 420 PS 4wd, powered by an efficient and reliable 420cc liquid-cooled and fuel-injected petrol engine. It has a five-speed manual transmission with foot-shift control, and mechanical drive from the engine to the wheels through gears and shafts for maximum efficiency and reliability. Traxlok selectable 2wd and 4wd allows the user to select the ideal mode for the task and riding conditions, and the AP Suretrac limited-slip front differential allows light steering but provides maximum traction when needed. Electric power steering is standard which helps reduce rider fatigue.
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Apart from use travelling around the site, the ATV also carries light loads on its front and rear racks, and larger items are towed behind in a Logic off-road trailer. The nimble Honda is also ideal for rounding up the ponies. “During the summer it’s often difficult to see
Asked about fuel consumption, Neil said that this is hard to quantify as the ATV’s use varies day to day. However, the fuel tank is filled on average once per week, which he considers reasonable. “Apart from one puncture I can’t remember an occasion when any of our Honda ATVs ever let us down. They are incredibly reliable, and we have never had a reason to consider other brands. We used to run larger Honda Foreman models when our role included looking after the cattle, but we no longer need the same power or load-carrying ability and the lighter Fourtrax 420 suits us well. The cost to upgrade them every two years costs less too.”
where it has travelled,” continued Neil. “If conditions are very wet and the ground is soft then very light marking can be seen, but we are always careful to avoid areas that are particularly vulnerable.”
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| ATV
Helping Horticulture Go Electric co Charger Quads, the UK based, world-leading manufacturers of electric Quad Bikes are delighted to have recently delivered one of their latest 4WD Pioneer Models to The Duchy of Cornwall Nursery, situated near Lostwithiel in Cornwall.
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The Duchy of Cornwall Nursery started commercial operations in 1974. It is part 100 |
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of The Duchy of Cornwall private estate, established in 1337. The current Duke of Cornwall, HRH The Prince of Wales is the longest-serving Duke in history. The Duchy Nursery is not only a centre of horticultural excellence but very much a major visitor attraction – a leading garden and specialist retail & food centre. As part of the Duchy of Cornwall Estate, the Nursery completely
embraces HRH The Prince of Wales’s ethos on sustainability and environmental responsibility. It is this underpinning philosophy, that led the Nursery Management team to investigate the advantages and benefits of ‘all electric’ power when looking for an environmentally friendly ‘general workhorse’ to undertake a wide variety of tasks and chores around the extensive site, replacing a carbon fuelled www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
| ATV
tractor whilst reducing emissions. Eco Charger have already supplied their ‘all electric’ quads to a variety of horticultural operations and visitor attractions around the globe and were able to demonstrate to the Duchy Nursery Team, not only a range of ‘task specific’ robust, UK manufactured electric vehicles but also a longestablished commitment to environmental sustainability – a shared ethos. The ‘Pioneer’ has been developed from Eco Charger’s original 4WD vehicle and has a proven track record for toughness, reliability, plus an appetite for hard work. www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
Its many and varied duties will include transporting plants & materials around the site by trailer – often negotiating narrow pathways and tight corners – ideal for the Quad with its nimble steering and performance. Its near silent running is also an important must when operating amongst the public. The Pioneer has been finished in a striking green livery and sports the distinctive Duchy of Cornwall Nursery logo.
day operations at the Nursery we make a point of always working with the best equipment – Eco Charger made a great effort to suggest a suitable vehicle that matched our many and varied requirements and the Pioneer proved to fit the bill! All the team are now lining up to put it through its paces as our busy summer season gets into full swing” To see the latest Eco Charger Quad in action, take a trip to The Duchy Nursery this summer https:// www.duchyofcornwallnursery.co.uk
Karl Taylor, Head of Enterprise at The Duchy of Cornwall Estate stated. “Like everything concerned with day-toJune 2022 | Farming Monthly | 101
| ATV
£300 off any new Polaris
olaris UK and Ireland has announced an extension to its youth retail promotion throughout the summer months; customers will receive £300 (including VAT) off the recommended retail price of any new Youth model when purchasing from a participating Polaris dealer, running from the beginning of June to the end of August.
150 EFI and RZR 200 EFI, and the ATV line-up; the Outlaw 70 EFI, Sportsman 110 EFI, and Pheonix 200.
With more and more families opting for “staycations” this summer, the offer will be available on purchases made between 1st June 2022 to 31st August 2022 – ideal timing for customers to make the most of the upcoming UK summer holidays.
Not only do off-road vehicles give kids a reason to get outside, but it’s also a gift that will grow with them through the years thanks to adjustable riding options and flexible parent-adjustable speed limiters that can be used to adapt the machine to suit their age, experience and skill. With the entire full-size Polaris Off-Road line-up also available, it’s an activity the whole family can enjoy.
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The promotion applies to the entire Polaris Youth line-up, including the Youth side-by-side range; the Ranger
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Polaris Youth side-by-side and ATV vehicles provide the ideal opportunity for kids to enjoy off-road summer adventures – combining key safety, technology and performance features – and enjoy the outdoors right here in the UK.
Free Starter Kit Every Polaris youth model has safety at the forefront of every design, so parents can have peace of mind whilst the kids are having fun. Every purchase comes standard with a starter kit that includes a Polaris youth helmet, whip flag and training DVD. Find your local Polaris dealers on the Polaris Britain website https:// www.polarisbritain.com/find-a-dealer/ map-view/ For more information on this offer, please contact your local dealer. Please note, no finance offer can be combined with this promotion.
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| ATV
Youth model this summer
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| ATV
Kawasaki announce complete he 2022 utility range will feature the popular Kawasaki MULE Pro DX, Mule Pro DXT, Mule SX 4×4, and Pro-MX vehicles. Also included in the range is the BRUTE FORCE 4x4i EPS ATV, which will be available in two colours.
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The MULE Pro DX and MULE Pro DXT remain the flagship vehicles in the range, with both machines retaining their current specification for 2022. At the core of each machine lays a 3cylinder, OHV water-cooled, 993cm3 Bosch fuel injected diesel engine; a feature of particular interest to multivehicle users pursuing a “single fuel” policy. Driving through a dual range CVT, both vehicles offer selectable 2WD and 4WD delivering 17.8 kW @
For more information
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3600rpm and 52.1 Nm of maximum torque at 2,400rpm. For the MULE Pro DX, a spacious tipping load bed and impressive towing ability mean that almost no task is too big to ask of it. The MULE Pro DXT helps to push the range into new customer bases, thanks to the additional ability to move work crews into difficult or environmentally sensitive locations with minimal impact. Featuring such user-friendly features as tilt adjustable steering wheels and speed sensitive electronic power steering plus front and rear independent suspension, both these sturdy vehicles certainly make light of heavy work and leave their operators fresh at the end of
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each demanding day. The entry-level MULE range will again be comprised of the MULE SX 4×4 and Pro-MX. Both models offer outstanding value for money and boast selectable 2WD and 4WD with Hi-Lo dual-range transfer case and a rear differential lock. The MULE SX 4×4 relies on a sturdy and ultra-reliable OHV 410cm3 petrol engine delivering 9.9kW (13.5 PS) of motive power. Its 500kg towing capacity and 181kg load bed maximum are more than enough for many users while such “creature comforts” as a tilting steering wheel and Independent MacPherson strut front suspension, the SX faithfully delivers all day, every day.
Southam Agri. Services Southam, Warwickshire CV47 2DH 01926 813426 http://southamagri.co.uk
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| ATV
e 2022 MULE and ATV line up
Its range partner, the MULE Pro MX cuts a real dash, not simply due to its sprightly turn of speed but, equally, an automotive styling approach redolent of a sturdy pickup truck. The singlecylinder CVT transmission equipped 695cm3 engine delivers 32.8kW (45 PS) for year-round working in even the harshest conditions with the added benefit of electronic power steering as standard fitment.
default option when value, reliability and rugged build quality are required.
The 2022 range will be available from August and will cost:
Completing the 2022 range is the 749cm3 Brute Force ATV models. Featuring the powerful 37.3 kW {51 PS} @ 6,750 rpm water-cooled fuel-injected V-Twin engines, a 4×4 drive train and Electronic Power Steering (EPS), the ATVs will be available in Super Black or Camouflage Real Tree Xtra Green.
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MULE Pro-DX – £11,999
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MULE Pro-DXT – £13,199
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MULE SX 4×4 – £7,299
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MULE Pro-MX – £9,199
With disc brakes both front and rear plus the luxury of double wishbone suspension at both ends, the MULE Pro MX is both work and price friendly. Offered in traditional Kawasaki Timberline Green, the MULE SX 4×4 and MULE Pro MX are, for many, the
The variable speed EPS, carefully considered ergonomics and vast spread of smooth all-conquering power make the Brute Force a logical number one choice when rugged power combined with a small vehicle footprint are required.
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Brute Force 750 4x4i EPS – £7,799
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Brute Force 750 4x4i EPS Camo – £8,099
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| Motors
Smart charging regulations not enough on their own for EV drivers to tackle soaring electricity costs and rising inflation a survey shows onsidering news announced yesterday that UK inflation has hit its highest rate in 40 years, and with millions of household electricity bills rising by £700-ayear*, a study reveals 46 per cent of EV owners are not utilising cheaper, offpeak charging. Despite UK Government requiring all EV chargers sold after 30th June 2022 to have smart functionality, attempting to alleviate the burden of rising electricity costs and stress on the grid, Smart Home Charge reveals the time to educate about how and why to use or swap to smart charging at home, is now.
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The survey, conducted by Smart Home Charge, the UK’s leading home charging retailer and installer, found that nearly half (46 per cent) of survey respondents did not take advantage of off-peak charging times, and could benefit by either installing a smart charging point at home or ensuring they use the smart scheduling features if they already have one.
To support this, Smart Home Charge has calculated that, using EDF’s GoElectric 35 tariff**, charging a Nissan Leaf on the peak day rate of 45p per kWh will cost around £18 for a single charge versus just £1.80 when using the off-peak rate of 4.5p per kWh (between the hours of 12 midnight and 5am). Across 10,000 miles in one year, peak rate only charging would cost £1,071 versus £107 when using off-peak only charging – a large saving of £964. Smart charge points are proven to provide drivers more control over their home charging setup, such as setting up scheduled charging to coincide with cheaper electricity rates, as well as providing information on charging history so drivers can monitor their EV home charging costs. The UK Government’s smart charging regulations on all home chargers sold on or after 30th June 2022 will assist with default off-peak charging, yet the poll reveals those new to EVs need help with what smart charging actually is, and how to make the most of it and reap the cost savings. Those without smart-equipped home chargers also need to be shown the efficiencies, cost savings and benefits of swapping their chargers for a new, smarter one.
Manager at Smart Home Charge said: “Educating new EV drivers is key to helping them save on their car charging costs. Traditionally, drivers have not had much choice when it comes to fuel costs other than searching for which petrol station has the lowest price – and even then the difference is pennies. “However, EV drivers have much more control over the cost of their home EV charging, firstly by finding an energy supplier which offers an EV-friendly tariff with off-peak rates and secondly by making sure they set up a schedule on their smart home charge point that coincides with their off-peak window. “While drivers cannot ultimately control wholesale electricity prices, they can make sure they are charging their cars on the lowest rate possible by using the Smart Home Charge EV energy tariff comparison tool.” Smart Home Charge is eager to help consumers get the most out of their EV experiences and has designed the Smart Home Charge tool to assist in comparing home charging rates. For more information on the Government regulations and smart charge points, see this link. Sources: * https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/ business-61483175 ** https://www.edfenergy.com/electriccars/tariffs
Danny Morgan, Editor and Marketing 106 |
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STARTIN TRACTORS Tel:
01827 880088
Email: isuzu@startintractors.co.uk Web: startintractors.co.uk Startin Tractors Ltd Ashby Road, Twycross, Nr Atherstone Warwickshire, CV9 3PW
FORD RANGER Wildtrak 3.2L Automatic, 2019, 20584 miles, Good spec. £28,650 + vat.
ISUZU DMAX CENTURION 2017, 46184 miles, lovely spec & colour. £25,495 + vat.
Ford Ranger Wildtrak 2.0L Automatic, rear canopy, lots of spec. £28,350 + vat.
ISUZU DMAX DL20 Automatic, 2021, 4285 miles, rear canopy, good spec. £29,950 + vat.
ISUZU DMAX Single cab Utility 4x4. 2021, 13800 miles, bigger load area with single cab. £23,995 + vat.
ISUZU DMAX UTAH double cab, 2018, 37226 miles, nice spec. Lovely colour. £22,850 + vat.
ISUZU DMAX BLADE Double cab Automatic, 2018, 61422 miles. £21,995 + vat.
TOYOTA HILUX Invincible 2.8 D-4D Auto. 2021, 12000 miles, lots of spec. £37,950 + vat.
ISUZU DMAX UTAH 2.5 TD. 2017, 56595 miles, Vision Pack, good spec. Blue colour. £18,995 + vat.
ISUZU DMAX 2.5TD UTAH 4x4. 2017, 46900 miles, rear canopy, good spec. £20,995 + vat.
NISSAN NAVARA double cab 2.3dCi Automatic, 2019, 9810 miles. Good spec. £28,650 + vat.
NISSAN NAVARA TEKNA 2.3 Cdi 4x4. 2019, 10200 miles, good spec + extras. £ 23,995 + vat.
PEUGEOT Partner 1000 Professional van, 1.5 BlueHDi 130. 2nd row of seats. £16,995 + vat.
Unused Alloy wheels, tyres & centre caps, set of four £ 440 + delivery + vat.
STARTIN TRACTORS
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June 2022 | Farming Monthly | 107
| Motors
NEW LAND ROVER DEFENDER 130: TH
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pic all-terrain adventures for up to eight will be possible when New Defender 130 breaks cover on 31 May.
Land Rover’s unstoppable 4x4 family will expand with the introduction of the practical Defender 130 body design, which will join the existing 90, 110 and commercial Hard Top derivatives. 108 |
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New Defender 130 will be ready for any adventure with premium interior practicality for up to eight occupants, across three rows of seating. With a spacious 2-3-3 seat configuration, the latest digital technologies and advanced integrated chassis technologies, Defender is the toughest, most capable off-road expert.
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| Motors
HE UNSTOPPABLE 8-SEAT EXPLORER The most capable 4x4 family will grow with the introduction of the New Defender 130, designed for shared adventures with up to eight occupants www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
June 2022 | Farming Monthly | 109
| Motors
NEW MILITEM FERŌX500: EXTREME UTILITY VEHICLE Unveiled the new super sporty model with the 6.4 litre V8 HEMI® engine
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o mark the official opening of its first dealership in Germany, AUTOHAUS ULMEN in Düsseldorf, MILITEM presented, as a international première, its new super sporty model: the FERŌX500 features a V8 HEMI® of 6.417 cc (392 cubic inches) delivering 470 CV at 6.000 rpm. FERŌX500 gives life to the new EUV (Extreme Utility Vehicle) category; extremely powerful units suited to any conditions. The model is the maximum expression of MILITEM’s sporty vision and delivers extraordinary performance, both on-road and off, with the chance to choose between two different types of tire.
MILITEM’s luxury range: it is the extraordinary result of a collaboration between designers, engineers and skilled craftsmen. This combined knowledge has brought together the utmost in luxury, technology and performance, for which MILITEM is renowned. Grit, personality and bags of adrenalin is what distinguishes this new, rangetopping MILITEM. It stands out for its sporty edge, power, performance and unique engine sound. It also represents a breakthrough in Europe for the adoption of a 6.4-litre V8 engine: the
FERŌX500 derives from the Wrangler Rubicon 392, a model sold exclusively in North America. All it takes is to listen to the engine sound, one perfectly captured by the MILITEM Dual-Mode exhaust set-up with 4 matt-Black tailpipes, to comprehend the ‘music’. The day promises to be a satisfying one! Torque from the 6.4. V8 reaches 637 Nm at 4.300rpm, unique in a car of this type, and 75% of this is delivered low down in the rev range. Traction,
The FERŌX range was already well represented by FERŌX and the FERŌXT pick-up, an authentic Sport Utility Truck (SUT) that combines all the benefits of an SUV with that of a pick-up; both are available also in the ADVENTURE version. Now, with the arrival of the new FERŌX500, there is an embarrassment of riches to choose from and clients looking for pure performance have a new benchmark as this model boasts 0-100 acceleration of just 4.5 seconds! FERŌX500 is the fifth model from
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| Motors
meanwhile, is provided by 4WD. Transmission is an 8-speed automatic TorqueFlite controlled by paddles set behind the steering wheel, a system already introduced by MILITEM on the FERŌX-T. FERŌX500 provides, on the one hand, 40% more performance than the 3.6-litre V6 FERŌX and boasts supercar acceleration. On the other hand, it maintains all the characteristics of a true offroader thanks to adjustable suspension re-engineered by MILITEM. DESIGN, SET-UP, TECHNOLOGY Defining the FERŌX500 project meant a lot of work, in terms of looks and mechanics. Beginning from the exterior, the ‘wide body’ design from the FERŌX has been maintained but, here, the bodywork has been enhanced with modifications to the front end and rear. These changes have altered the perception of the model. Right from the off, the greater poise and presence is clear while the refined, color-matched, chrome inserts are clean and elegant. The search for elegant looks is balanced by the strong sporty edge, one apparent from the eyecatching 22”MILITEM Black rims. MILITEM FERŌX500 presents a series of firsts that distinguish it from the rest of the line-up. Aesthetically, it is recognizable from the logo on its flanks and, especially, for the lack of a spare wheel on the rear door. This allowed the model to be completely redesigned, eliminating the air scoops too. The styling change has made the car more elegant and modern while also improving rear visibility, with all-black hinges. The groupset is also stylish, picking up on the color of the bodywork.
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Moving to the front end, the carbon-fiber grille in matt boasts a new Dual Color, black and red finish; a color choice repeated in the cabin. The logo on the engine hood, placed next to the air scoop, is all-black like the hooks, hood inserts and side grilles set behind the front wheel arches. The use of carbonfiber on the groupset and air scoops are worthy of note. Clients can also add, as an optional, an LED strip set into the bumpers as well as parking sensors. The exclusive braking system, totally redefined by MILITEM in collaboration with Powerbrake – among the leaders in the sector – is the jewel in crown of the FERŌX500. Up front are 370x34 mm slotted, semi-floating discs with radial expansion and contraction featuring 72 ventilation channels and a surface coating. Teamed with the discs are turned aluminum radial calipers machined from billets with internal fluid crossovers and 6 pistons crafted from stainless steel. Completing the set-up are high-performance brake pads and aircraft grade cables in low-expansion braided steel.
In the rear, the brakes adopt 4-piston calipers in combination with 370x32 mm discs, also featuring high-performance brakes and tubing in low-expansion braided steel The new, Black 22“x9,5” rims are another exclusive MILITEM design. The
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The Sidings, Holdsworth Road, Halifax , West Yorkshire HX3 6SN info@thorntonbreaker.co.uk - www.thorntonbreakers.co.uk
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rims were created especially for the FERŌX500 using innovative Hybrid Forged technology, that is light and hard-wearing but that can bear heavy loads. The captivating, sporty look is emphasized by the satin-black finish. Road tires measuring 325/50R22 can be fitted, as can All-Terrain 35x12,50/R22 sets. In alternative, clients can opt for MIILITEM Black Edition 20”x10” rims mounted with All-Terrain 35x12,5/R20 tires. The new Black performance Dual Mode exhaust system was engineered inhouse by MILITEM and is fitted with 4 tailpipes and valves. These can be activated via a dashboard button to match that sound to the setting and route taken. MILITEM FERŌX500 is a car that goes beyond what other 4x4s can do. Most of the merit goes, as has been mentioned, to MILITEM’s new suspension system developed ad hoc. The set-up can be modified to tackle any type of surface thanks to the greater ground clearance provided by the MILITEM 2” Lift-Kit. MILITEM Performance Shocks dampeners, feature separate twin gas and dual-effect hydraulics. The suspension is built from aluminum and coated in carbon-fiber; they are a mechanical gem. The system also includes the Track Bar (torsion bar) that can be calibrated and is an efficient steering damper.
its luxury clients. Today, MILITEM creates masterpieces finished by hand: comfort and luxury describe the interior. It is precisely in this unconventional mix of an aggressive ‘muscle car’ bodyshape and a refined cabin that we find MILITEM’s soul. The car’s functionality never interferes with the search for the right materials and finish. The seats have been redesigned by MILITEM and have a racing derived shell shape, with incorporated headrests. The ergonomic seats result in superb comfort and the most efficient driving position possible, meaning that the driver is fully in control and all the switches and commands are close to hand. The hand-fitted nappa leather and ALCANTARA® finish is in contrasting colors sporting MILITEM stitching. The leather finish can also be extended to the dashboard, instrument panel, steering wheel boss, gear knob, door panels and luggage compartment lining, pairing well with the carbon-fiber and allblack inside. Another MILITEM first is the interior pack in glossy carbon-fiber: door handle inserts, the steering wheel and console come in carbon-fiber.
INTERIORS
The MILITEM-designed steering wheel derives from racing and have a flattened bottom and ‘bullseye’ at the top to have the wheels always aligned when pushing the gas pedal hard. Here, there is the possibility to mix things up with supple leather, ALCANTARA® and carbonfiber.
The cabin has been revolutionized by MILITEM in order to meet the needs of
Every MILITEM client can personalize his/her car thanks to a vast range of
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leathers, materials (including Denim) and technical fibers. The details of the all-black finish add a touch of luxury and sportiness to the entire cabin. The central console houses the button to activate the interior multicolor ambient lights: another exclusive feature from the FERŌX range together with the smoked LEDs and the footboard that retracts electronically, as standard kit. MILITEM FERŌX500 HIGHLIGHTS In detail, here is a rundown of the main modifications introduced by MILITEM on the FERŌX500: •
MILITEM “rear wheel delete”, that is the removal of the spare wheel from the rear door, transforming it, and the elimination of the air scoops
•
MILITEM 370 mm front brake discs with semi-floating bell and 6-piston radial calipers, aircraft standard brake cables in braided steel
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MILITEM 370 mm rear brake discs with semi-floating bell and 4-piston radial calipers, aircraft standard brake cables in braided steel
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MILITEM Black rims 22”, Hybrid Forged, with 325/50 R22 road tires
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MILITEM Black matt Dual Mode performance exhaust with 4 tailpipes and exhaust valves that can be activated by the driver via a cabin button www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
| Motors
•
MILITEM paint finish on all exterior components
Color-coded rear lights
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MILITEM multicolor interior mood lights
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MILITEM LED strip integrated into the front bumper
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MILITEM front parking sensors
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MILITEM smoked LEDs
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MILITEM electronic retractable footboard
All-black rear door hinges All-black engine hood hooks All-black 500 Black hood logo All-black hood inserts All-black side grilles
OTHER FEATURES
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MILITEM mudflap grilles in opaque carbon-fiber
•
MILITEM front grille 500 line, Dual Color, black and red
Fuel Saver technology in the engine management deactivates half the cylinders when maximum power output is not required, meaning that consumption levels drop. The large airscoop on the hood works to cool the engine.
•
MILITEM front shell seats for a sporty edge
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MILITEM interior Carbon-fiber kit in high-gloss finish
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MILITEM super sporty steering wheel in high-gloss carbon-fiber
Like the standard FERŌX, this vehicle is fitted with: •
MILITEM grille profile in matt carbon finish
•
MILITEM mudflaps in matt carbon finish
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MILITEM ALCANTARA® pack www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
Different drive modes can be selected in 4WD and, concerning specific settings for off-road, safety features, infotainment and connectivity on are the same as the original versions.
MILITEM FERŌX500 maintains the same versatile characteristics of the Wrangler 392, with a body-colored hard top that comes in 3 sections to make it easier to remove. It is also possible to have an electric soft top fitted, teamed with removable rear windows to deliver a wider panorama and a cabriolet drive! The FERŌX500 embodies the most
evolved expression of MILITEM’s American Tech-Italian Made mood. Each MILITEM vehicle is the perfect combination of American DNA and majestic Italian craftsmanship. MILITEM redefines iconic American models with an exquisite finish and Italian class and taste. The brand creates exclusive models for the luxury market. It is in the details that MILITEM’s value and unique edge can be gauged! The list price of the MILITEM FERŌX500 starts from € 149.500 plus VAT. Each MILITEM model is accompanied by a European warranty that extends to 36 months or 100,000km. MILITEM’s vehicles have European homologation and are subject to German TÜV safety regulations, one of the world’s leading independent technical associations. MILITEM’s first corporate showroom was established in Monza but the brand’s commercial network includes three dealerships in Italy: in Bologna, Padova and Mantua. MILITEM also has dealers in the Principality of Monaco and Düsseldorf in Germany. Other dealers will be added over the coming months, prioritizing markets in Austria, Switzerland, Holland, the Czech Republic and Slovakia. MILITEM recommends BARDAHL lubricant For more information: www.militem.com
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• One-off show special Isuzu D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35 unveiled at CV Show • Expedition ready vehicle demonstrates the extreme nature and possibilities of new model • Basecamp features everything you need, including a roof tent and the kitchen sink
ISUZU UK REVEAL SHOW SPECIAL D-MAX ARCTIC TRUCKS BASECAMP AT THE COMMERCIAL VEHICLE SHOW 2022
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suzu UK has revealed a unique show-special version of the AllNew Isuzu D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35, codenamed Basecamp, at this year’s CV Show.
The All-New Isuzu D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35 went on sale in early May, and having been inspired by the extreme nature and possibilities of the new flagship model, the team at Isuzu UK created Basecamp, an expedition ready one-off vehicle, especially for the show.
and a slide-out kitchen unit, which includes a 3-burner gas stove and a 12litre collapsible sink. Mounted to the roof of the vehicle is an ARB Base Rack system that incorporates a front-facing light bar and a bespoke clamp, mount and bracket
system allowing safe storage for a gas bottle, water container, fuel containers and recovery boards. Elsewhere, a black ‘A’ bar with three front-facing spotlights is fitted, along with a new design Isuzu accessory front grille and bonnet protector. The side of the vehicle has been enhanced with black sidebars with
Basecamp, which is finished in Obsidian Grey with a mainly black colour scheme, is equipped with a lightweight and versatile iKamper SkyCamp Mini 3.0 rooftop tent which features a hard shell with quilted insulation, easy access ladder, iKamper’s signature World Map and even a Skyview window, which gives you extra light by day and a view of the stars by night. This is mounted to a black aluminium Gearmate hardtop canopy, with solid gullwing side and rear access doors. Inside the load bed, the vehicle is equipped with an ARB Outback Solutions modular roller drawer system, with a durable carpet finish. Along with providing luggage space, the system also incorporates a fridge unit 116 |
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integrated steps, side window visors and a bespoke ‘Inspired by Extremes’ decal kit. The highly capable and rugged expedition vehicle is finished with 17-inch black Arctic Trucks alloy wheels, fitted with 35-inch LT315/70 R17 mud-terrain tyres. Brian Wheeler, PR & Product Manager, Isuzu UK said “With the recent launch of the new Isuzu D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35, we wanted to display a special vehicle at the CV Show that represented what this new model is all about. Built to conquer all types of landscapes and be a true adventure vehicle, Basecamp demonstrates the aspirational nature of the AT35 and really does embrace everything you need, including the kitchen sink!” Available from £47,999 CVOTR, the Isuzu DMax Arctic Trucks AT35 is a professionally reengineered vehicle incorporating significant enhancements to the body, frame, drivetrain, suspension, and tyres. The new flagship model in the D-Max range retains its commercial vehicle status, with no compromise to payload or towing capacity and comes with Isuzu’s five-year/125,000mile warranty. www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
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Ford Opens Order Books for Tougher, Smarter, More Powerful Next-Gen Ranger Raptor
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rder books for the NextGen Ranger Raptor are now open, enabling customers to specify and order the ultimate performance pick-up.
Prices for the second-generation Ranger Raptor – unveiled earlier this year with customer deliveries set to begin in late summer – start at £57,340, including VAT. “Being able to build their dream NextGen Ranger Raptor is now a reality for our customers and they can experiment with the range of options with our online configurator” said Hans Schep, general manager, Ford Pro, Europe. “Whatever the combination, Ranger Raptor will always deliver its trademark ultimate offroad driving experience.” Options include the Raptor Splash Decal Pack (£600) and exterior “Raptor Pack” (£1,860), which includes a cab roll over bar and power roll top Tonneau cover. 118 |
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New Code Orange premium paint will cost £720. Built for true enthusiasts and developed by Ford Performance, the ultimate performance derivative of Europe’s bestselling pick-up introduces a twin-turbo 3.0-litre EcoBoost V6 engine, 1 FOX® Live Valve dampers, and seven selectable drive modes to offer optimised performance on a variety of terrains. A class-exclusive active exhaust system delivers adjustable engine sounds with four exhaust modes to suit different driving scenarios. Occupants also benefit from the latest technology controlled via the 12.4-inch all-digital cluster and 12-inch central touchscreen – boasting Ford’s newgeneration SYNC 4A® 2 connectivity and entertainment system. Customers can from today also build and price their dream Ranger Raptor using the automaker’s online configurator, choosing from colour
options including Arctic White, Blue Lightning and Code Orange, and features such as the Raptor Exterior Dress-Up pack, a Splash Decal package, functional load bars and roller shutters. 1 Officially homologated fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions figures will be published closer to on-sale date. The declared WLTP fuel/energy consumptions, CO2-emissions and electric range are determined according to the technical requirements and specifications of the European Regulations (EC) 715/2007 and (EU) 2017/1151 as last amended. The applied standard test procedures enable comparison between different vehicle types and different manufacturers. 2 Don’t drive while distracted or while using handheld devices. Use voice-operated systems when possible. Some features may be locked out while the vehicle is in gear. Not all features are compatible with all phones. 3 Professional driver on a closed course. Always consult the Raptor supplement to the Owner’s Manual before off-road driving, know your terrain and trail difficulty, and use appropriate safety gear.
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Ford Joins Appeal to the EU for 100% All-Electric Vehicle Sales by 2035 • Ford joins 27 companies in a petition to ensure all new cars and vans in Europe are zero emission from 2035 and calls for targets to grow electric vehicle charging infrastructure in Europe
• The companies appeal to the European Union decision-makers to enact legislations that establish clear vehicle standards, enabling conditions and a timeline to facilitate the transition to electric vehicles
• By 2035, Ford is committed to having zero emissions for all vehicle sales in Europe and targets carbon neutrality across its European footprint of facilities and suppliers • Ford is committed to taking care of the environment and ensuring future generations will live in a sustainable world
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ord of Europe together with 27 companies have joined an appeal to the European Union (EU) to ensure all new cars and vans in Europe are zero emission from 2035 and to establish mandatory targets for charging infrastructure. The appeal insists that removing fossil fuel burning vehicles from the road is imperative for Europe reaching its goal of net zero emissions by 2050, and to help avoid the worst impacts of climate change on people and the planet. This includes enacting legislation that establishes standards and a clear timeline for the industry and suppliers to follow, to ensure the transition to electric vehicles.
companies making the appeal – that only zero-emission new cars and vans can be sold EU-wide from 2035. The European Parliament and EU governments will decide their positions in June, with the final law expected to be adopted in autumn. For Ford of Europe, the road towards zero-emission vehicles is being paved by a new generation of seven, allelectric, fully-connected passenger vehicles and vans, coming to Europe by 2024. Leading the charge are the Mustang Mach-E, which last year achieved maximum safety and green ratings from Euro NCAP and Green NCAP, and the E-Transit, which received the Gold Award from Euro NCAP for its advanced driver assistance systems.
“At Ford in Europe, we believe that freedom of movement goes hand-inhand with caring for our planet and each other,” said Stuart Rowley, chair, Ford of Europe. “That’s why we are targeting all Ford vehicles to be zero emission by 2035. To successfully achieve this, EU policymakers must also establish mandatory national targets for a seamless electric charging infrastructure that lives up to the growing demand for electric vehicles.”
Ford’s European Sustainability Digest 2022
To coincide with this appeal, Rowley will be part of the European Car Climate Summit, hosted by the campaign group Transport and Environment on 18 May, as a member of the panel discussing the right time for businesses, workers and consumers to go fully electric.
This digest is a companion to Ford’s global Integrated Sustainability and Financial Report and details the significant steps Ford is taking towards targeting carbon neutrality across its European footprint of facilities, logistics and suppliers by 2035. 1 Earlier this year, Ford published its first Human Rights Report. This integral part of the Sustainability Report examines how materials are sourced, where Ford products are made and how the
The EU decision-makers are currently deciding on new clean car rules, following a proposal by the EU Commission – supported by the www.farmingmonthly.co.uk
Ford is committed to taking care of the environment and ensuring future generations will live in a sustainable world. In the past 12 months, Ford of Europe has introduced a range of initiatives to make a positive contribution towards a more sustainable future, outlined in the European Sustainability Digest 2022.
company’s labour standards measure up. All the electricity sourced at the company’s manufacturing sites in Europe is already 100 per cent renewable. The planned production of electric vehicles in Cologne, Germany, is now expected to be 1.2 million vehicles over six years, with a total product investment of $2 billion, helping to bring more electric vehicles to customers in Europe. Ford’s BlueOval Charging Network has over 300,000 charge points in Europe, while for Ford employees, 1,000 charging stations will be added on the company’s European sites by 2023. The company is also proud to be part of RouteZero, a global coalition working towards 100 per cent fully electric cars and vans globally by 2040. To improve sustainability on the supply chain, Ford of Europe recently signed on to two key initiatives which seek to establish industry standards for datasharing between partners and the assessment of sustainability of production sites. Along with its philanthropic arm Ford Fund, Ford has made more than $74.4 million in charitable contributions to build equity and empower underserved and underrepresented communities around the world. 1) To better understand attitudes to climate change, as well electric vehicles, Ford commissioned research of 14,000 adults across Europe in October 2021. The surveys, conducted by independent research agency OnePoll, covered respondents in the UK, Germany, Italy, Spain, France, The Netherlands, Norway, and Poland. The sample for each country was nationally representative, and the survey adhered to MRS code of standards.
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Industry calls for chargepoint ‘van plan’ to switch owners to electric
• New research shows 57% of van owners anxious about going electric over fears they won’t be able to find a charging point when they need it. • More than a third of all new van models now available with a plug, but only one in 20 buyers has switched to a battery powered van in 2022. • Industry calls for a national ‘van plan’ to accelerate electric van uptake and deliver ambitious government targets.
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ore than half of van owners say they are discouraged from switching to an electric van due to a lack of chargepoint infrastructure, according to new research published today by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). An SMMT survey by Savanta ComRes found that 57% of people who own or lease a van in the UK are worried that they wouldn’t be able to find a public charging point when they need it.1 Persuading van drivers to switch to zero emission vehicles is essential if Britain is to become Net Zero while keeping the nation on the move. Vans directly support around one in 10 workers in Britain, acting as the essential workhorse for sectors such as construction and industry, trades such as plumbers, landscapers and cleaners, and home delivery services which grew rapidly during the pandemic.2 With more than four million vans on the road, electrifying the fleet will substantially reduce the UK’s transport-related carbon emissions, while also delivering cleaner air in cities. Those who switch can enjoy lower running costs, promote their environmental credentials and demonstrate sustainability when bidding for work. More than a third of all new van models now on sale come with a plug following billions of pounds of investment by manufacturers, investment which has delivered massively improved payloads and battery range, with van owners spoilt for choice.3 Indeed, confidence in this range is high, with just 20% saying there isn’t enough variety of models to meet their needs. At the Commercial Vehicle Show, which opens today at the NEC in Birmingham, around 10,000 visitors will have the opportunity to 120 |
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discover the latest electric vans, alongside electric trucks, trailers and a vast variety of commercial vehicle technology. Despite electric van uptake doubling in the last year, these vehicles still account for just one in 20 new van registrations – meaning the market is currently about two years behind that of cars, where uptake of zero emission cars is closer to one in five.4 With vans facing the same 2035 end of sale date for non-zero emission vehicles as cars, however, the automotive sector is calling on all stakeholders to match its commitment to drive the electric transition. While just one in eight owners say they don’t plan to ever switch to an electric van, the vast majority (88%) say they would go electric by 2035 but a fifth of these owners say they will defer the decision for three to seven years. Overcoming this reticence is critical, therefore, with many people (58%) suggesting they might be convinced to buy an EV sooner if there was a greater number of public charging points. The availability of government incentives such as reduced tax or grants towards purchase would also steer 57% of respondents towards a zero emission van. The UK already has a paucity of standard public charge points as take up of electrified vehicles accelerates. There is just one available for every 32 plug-in vehicles on the road, with fears exacerbated for van owners.5 Public chargepoints designed for cars will not always be suitable or in the right locations for vans, which also typically need a larger parking area. As a result, van charging provision must be factored into national infrastructure plans, with commensurate and binding targets for charge points for passenger cars and
commercial vehicles to match the commitments of the automotive industry. While the survey reveals perceived battery capacity to be an influence on range anxiety, with 65% of respondents stating that longer battery range would encourage them to switch, these fears may be overstated, with an average range on a single charge of an electric van now around 150 miles. Just 6% of van owners say they exceeded this distance regularly, while four out of five averaged fewer than 100 miles in a single day. Electric van buyers currently benefit from the Plug-in Van Grant, worth up to £2,500 for small vans and £5,000 for larger ones, as well as up to £350 towards installing a chargepoint at their place of work. However, homeowners no longer receive a grant to install a home charging point, meaning van owners who operate from home will need to pay the full price, which can be up to £1,500. Given 41% of respondents said they had nowhere to charge a vehicle at home or their depot, supporting both private and public chargepoint provision will be essential to drive the switch. Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said, “Britain’s businesses run on vans and if we’re to deliver the nation’s carbon emission cuts, we need them to move to electric. There’s an electric van to suit every business case, but we need a ‘van plan’ to ensure zero-emission driving works for the millions of people for whom their van is their livelihood and the millions more who rely on these workhorses for the delivery of their daily needs. The automotive industry is getting these new technology vehicles into the showrooms – we need government and other stakeholders to match our commitments to get them out on the road.”
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SSANGYONG TEASES ALL-NEW TORRES SUV
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sangYong Motor Company (SMC) has revealed the all-new SUV, project name J100, is to be called Torres.
The Torres is the first model to reflect the brand’s new design philosophy ‘Powered by Toughness’ whilst maintaining SsangYong’s distinctive and authentic SUV characteristics. The brand expects to increase their market share by developing a new segment. The name ‘Torres’ was inspired by the spectacular views of Torres del Paine National Park in Patagonia. The park was designated a World Biosphere Reserve status by UNESCO in 1978 and is well known for its magnificent mountains, glaciers, lakes, and rivers. The name is designed to embody a sense of adventure, challenge, and escapism.
showcasing a tough yet contemporary styled SUV, drawing on the SMC’s distinctive design heritage. The front of the Torres features a vertical radiator-style grille giving the sense of a tough and rugged appearance, while the rear tailgate continues this theme with a classic off-road appearance, emphasising the freedom to explore. A spokesperson for SMC commented: “The SUV market continues to expand and subdivide, and with Torres we are filling the gap between semi-medium-sized SUVs such as Korando and large SUVs like Rexton. This move will create an additional segment in the market and will open up new opportunities for us, especially as we further develop the product offering and continue to add value and originality.” Torres is scheduled to go into mass production with pre-order sales commencing in June for the domestic market. For the European market, an EV version of Torres, project name U100, will be introduced towards the end of 2023.
SMC have released teaser images of the exterior of the car,
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THE ALL-NEW ISUZU D-MAX
LOVES WORK LOADS
BUSINESS CONTRACT HIRE FROM ONLY
£289
† MONTHLY RENTAL PLUS VAT INITIAL RENTAL £2,601.00 PLUS VAT Followed by 47 Monthly Rentals. Excess mileage charges and return conditions apply.
DRIVEN TO DO Model pictured is a DL20 including optional special paint finish from £298.39 +VAT a month plus Initial Rental of £2,685.51 +VAT
B & B Trucks
Burton on Trent, Staffordshire Tel: 01283 521 522 bandbtrucksand tractors-isuzu.co.uk
Jeffries of Bacton Stowmarket, Suffolk Tel: 01449 781 131 jeffriesofbactonisuzu.co.uk
Startin Tractors
Ashby Road, Twycross Tel: 01827 880 088 startintractorsisuzu.co.uk
York Van Centre Station Lane, York Tel: 01904 470 170 yorkvancentreisuzu.co.uk
Culverwell Cars Robertsbridge, East Sussex Tel: 01580 880 567 culverwellisuzu.co.uk
SMARTER. STRONGER. SAFER. All fuel consumption and emission values are based on the new WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure) test cycle which uses real-world driving data. Official fuel economy for the standard Isuzu D-Max range in MPG (l/100km): Low 25.1 – 27.6 (10.2 – 11.2). Mid 31.4 – 36.4 (7.8 – 9.0). High 36.0 – 39.4 (7.2 – 7.8). Extra-High 29.0 – 30.8 (9.2 – 9.7). Combined 30.7 – 33.6 (8.4 – 9.2). CO2 emissions 220 – 241g/km. †Example based on 8,000 miles per annum, non-maintained. Subject to status. UK residents 18+. Rental amounts shown are on the specific model stated plus VAT @ 20%. This offer excludes fleet and Members Affinity scheme sales, is only available through participating Isuzu dealers and is not available in conjunction with any other offers or with BASC, NGO or NFU member discounts. This offer is only available through Lex Autolease Ltd trading as Isuzu Contract Hire, Heathside Park, Heathside Park Road, Stockport SK3 0RB. Offers may be varied or withdrawn at any time. Offer ends 31.05.2022. Vehicle must be returned in a good condition to avoid further charges. You will not own the vehicle. If the vehicle has exceeded the maximum permitted mileage then a charge of 9.5p plus VAT @20% per excess mile will apply. The All-New Isuzu D-Max is Smarter Stronger Safer compared to previous model. Terms and conditions apply.