July 2016 Farming Monthly National

INSIDE: New tools for optimising grass production page 27

Farming

MONTHLY National

July 2016

Also in this issue...

News

| Farming sector should encourage more women into the industry page 07

Internet of Things Also inside this month..

| How a Californian farmer slashed water consumption by 75% on avocado farm page 10

Maximising slurry... p30

To crop or not to crop.. p12

Deere expands Gator range p52

PLUS: Education | Grass | Pigs |Arable| Machinery | Tyres | Energy | ATV | Motors

CONTENTS July 2016

FEATURES 09

13

09 Pests Added complications for rat control

12 Arable To crop or not to crop...plus automated crop analysis

25

36 Livestock

42

42 Education

Livestock Event becomes Dairy Event, Harry West celebrates 50 years..

40 Buildings

Bishop Burton, Hartpury, North Shropshire College successes..

50 Tyres

Paul Huxley: A solid reputation..

Jean Marc ChauvirĂŠ sings Alliance praises

16 Cereals Post show review plus more..

22 Root Crops First LightTraxx beet harvester on Chinese soil, Advanced carrot handling...

REGULARS 06 News Resolving BPS 2015 queries

25 Grassland Improve what you get from grazing with BGS, Optimizing grass production..

28 Muck & Slurry Slurry storage, new Vogelsang dribble bar

04 | Farming Monthly | July 2016

10 On Topic Internet of Things & water consumption

32 Energy Latest news

44 Machinery New 295hp Axion...

52 ATV ATV news...covered.

56 Motors Latest motors news

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

66

Agriculture. Covered.

EDITOR Andrew Poulton editor@farmingmonthly.com EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES editorial@farmingmonthly.com ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Tel: +44 (0) 2476 353537 Advertising Director: Shona Beedham s.beedham@farmingmonthly.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Julie Smith j.smith@farmingmonthly.com Phil Barry p.barry@farmingmonthly.com ACCOUNTING Accounts Payable Manager: Cheryl Arnold c.arnold@farmingmonthly.com DESIGN & PRODUCTION studio@farmingmonthly.com

From the Editor...

So we are out - and everyone is running around like headless chickens proclaiming the end of the world.

There's more post Brexit coverage than there was pre...you can't open a newspaper or turn on the tv without being confronted by it. Negativity is the overwhelming feeling being portrayed.

But look out of the window – the sky is not falling...and as far as membership of the EU is concerned, I think that we would all agree that something had to change.

The definition of madness is continuing to do the same thing and expecting a different outcome.

I would liken our membership of the EU to this statement. It would have been so easy to continue treading the same path, business as usual - so to speak - and continue to moan and express our dissatisfaction at the state of the EU as a whole.

Unsurprisingly, Scotland are still hell bent on Grexit (Great Britain Exit) seemingly having an insatiable desire to join the EU whatever the cost.

But the majority has spoken and now we must

look ahead, not behind. Let's all just take a breath and consider the opportunity that the country now has – we can make our own decisions without being dictated to and having tied hands on our own legislation.

Let's consider first and foremost perhaps, a more United Kingdom, after all, that's what we should be, isn't it? Can't we all work together to make Britain great again? Can't we put aside the petty squabbles and in-fighting – get our heads together and plan for a future together – because together we are stronger.

It's going to take some time to extract ourselves from all of the EU 'strings & ties' – and so nothing much will change over this period. But it's quite clear that farming & agriculture should be first and foremost in the minds of the politicians when it comes to ongoing industry support – if everyone still wants to eat, that is!

There is no doubt that change is hard. But nothing that is easy is ever worth doing....

Andrew Poulton, Editor

SUBSCRIPTIONS subscriptions@farmingmonthly.com

Subscribe today!

ON THE COVER Beet harvesting in China with LightTraxx...

Enjoy your 12 month print subscription direct to your door for just £20!

Call us on 02476 353537 or visit our secure website at www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

Available in

PRINT. DIGITAL. APP.

Follow us 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, 15-17 Dugdale Street, Nuneaton, Warwickshire CV11 5QJ 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)

July 2016 | Farming Monthly | 05

| News

RPA sets out plans for resolving farmers’ BPS 2015 queries The Rural Payments Agency (RPA) has set out what it is now doing to resolve remaining queries for 2015 Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) payments.

B

y the end of June RPA will start writing to all claimants whose payments are part of its planned payment reconciliation process to let them know what is happening and what they

can expect.

Chief Executive of the RPA Mark Grimshaw said: “We are now focused on looking at 2015 payments where there’s a difference between the information on the claim and the information we hold, to make sure each farmer is paid for everything they were eligible for.

As of 26 June, 86,678, (99.5%) farmers have received a payment on their 2015 BPS claim “The past year has been about building the foundations of the new Rural Payments service, which will reduce fines for the UK and mean quicker and compliant payments for farmers.

“We have all the resources we need and expect 2016 to be easier for our farmers. It has already got off to a good start with a record 80% of claims submitted online.”

The process will initially look at around 13,000 individual 2015 BPS claims, many of whom wrote to RPA, investigating any

differences in land and entitlements held and making any necessary data adjustments and top-up payments.

Using farmer and industry feedback, RPA will: • Focus on getting as much money paid to farmers as quickly as possible by looking at those claims with the biggest payment difference first.

• Contact the farmer or agent if the RPA needs more information.

• Let the farmer or agent know the outcome once the work is finished.

• Issue a claim statement and explain to the farmer what they have done, when any additional amount is paid.

• Update the data it will use to check the 2016 claim when it adjusts a farmer’s 2015 claim information.

The new Rural Payments service has been designed to work in a different way to the old payment system by carrying out a range of prepayment checks to ensure the payments it issues are compliant.

Using satellite data, aerial photography and digital maps, it ensures land being claimed under BPS matches the information held in its system.

Where there is discrepancy between a claim and the information held on the Rural Payments service, only the amount of the claim that

matches is paid out, and penalties are applied before money is paid.

As well as the cases known to RPA, and so it can investigate all claim issues, the Agency asked farmers who believe their payment was not what they expected to write to them.

Anyone with a query can still write to RPA, so it can investigate.

As of 26 June, 86,678, (99.5%) farmers have received a payment on their 2015 BPS claim.

BPS guidance The decision by the British public to leave the European Union, does not mean there will be immediate changes. Until the UK formally leaves the EU, it still has a legal obligation to comply with the Common Agricultural Policy and all BPS scheme rules and regulations will apply. The 2016 BPS scheme guidance is available on GOV.UK/guidance/bps-2016.

18-month glyphosate re-approval is a step in right direction The NFU has today welcomed the announcement that the active substance glyphosate has been re-authorised for an 18-month period with no additional conditions of use placed on it. he NFU continues to push for the expected 15-year authorisation of the world’s most widely use weed-killer on behalf of its farmer members.

The NFU’s infographic launched today aims to communicate more effectively why glyphosate works for farming and the environment.

NFU Vice President Guy Smith said: “After many delays to any re-authorisation of glyphosate we’re pleased to see a positive decision has been made for agriculture. It is a

T

06 | Farming Monthly | July 2016

welcome endorsement from the Commission of science-based decision-making.

“We appreciate this 18-month period is well below the 15-year re-approval expected and politics has played its part in interfering with this; members can be assured that our goals have not changed. The approval of glyphosate offers an endorsement of the scientific scrutiny from EFSA, helping to maintain the competitiveness of agriculture, protecting the environment and allowing farmers to keep food safe and affordable.

“We also welcome the fact that no additional

conditions of use have been placed on the use of glyphosate – something the NFU has been pushing for.

“Echoing Commissioner Andriukaitis, it is important to clarify that once an active substance is approved – or renewed at EU level – it is then up to Member States to authorise the final products put onto their respective markets.

“I’m keen to see a science based approach free of politics and immune to the scare mongering we have clearly seen on glyphosate.”

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| News

Farming sector should encourage more women into the industry The farming sector needs to encourage more female participation in the industry and promote the significant role of women already working in agriculture.

Those were the key messages at today’s Women in Agriculture event hosted by Scotland’s Rural College at the Royal Highland Show. abinet Secretary for Rural Economy and Connectivity, Fergus Ewing, kicked off proceedings by launching plans for Scottish Government research into women working in farming industries.

He said: “We have commissioned this research to identify the challenges and come up with policy initiatives to improve women’s participation in farming.

In particular the contribution women make to agriculture in

C

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

Scotland and the wider rural economy which is not always visible.”

Professor Sally Shortall, has been commissioned by the Scottish Government to carry out the research, assisted by colleagues at the James Hutton Institute.

“While we will focus on

identifying the issues and producing actual policy recommendations to help improve the situation; the study is not antimen or about positive discrimination,” Sally explained. “It is about it is about improving the efficiency and economic viability of the farm and farming.”

Many of the other speakers echoed that message, that women in the sector were not interested in special treatment, merely for their skills and experience to be recognised and put to good use supporting the industry.

Gemma Thomson, Legal and Technical Policy Manager at NFU Scotland, said: “Promoting women in agriculture is not a new thing, but it is now building into a positive force. What we don’t want is positive discrimination however.

That would be negative. But agriculture needs to be much better at promoting itself as a real career choice for females.”

SRUC Board Member and Vet Kate Richards noted that: “Women often feel they have to be better and give more to be taken seriously. That is an image that needs to change with women accepted as equals.”

Fergus Ewing also spoke of need to change perceptions. He said: “What we need to achieve is to change that image of the average Scottish farmer – being

older and male.”

With over hundred women (and a few men) in the room, and seven inspirational female speakers, it is clear that that image is not necessarily a true representation of the industry. However, many of those at the event felt more needs to be done to encourage women into the sector, both those from a farming background, and those who might consider themselves ‘outsiders’.

One such ‘outsider’, SAOS’s Emma Patterson Taylor, said: “There are many advantages you can bring as an ‘outsider’ – you look at things from a different perspective and are not bound by the way it has always been done.”

SRUC’s Acting CEO and Principal, Janet Swadling, was also new to the sector when she joined SRUC twenty years ago.

She concluded the event by saying: “I did not come from a farming background, but I am absolutely passionate about what I do, and am proud to have led the national college for the land-based sector for two and a half years.

“I think as an industry we all need to do more to promote the great work being done by women and men in the agricultural sector, and try and get more young women in particular studying and working in this field.”

July 2016 | Farming Monthly | 07

| News

NSA asks for united livestock sector in face of Brexit disarray With nothing but political rhetoric and unanswered questions in the week since the British public went to the polls to make their voices heard on EU membership, the National Sheep Association (NSA) is working within the industry to ensure a united front on priorities for the sheep sector. hil Stocker, NSA Chief Executive, says: “NSA and other farming organisations continuously asked for a ‘Plan B’ during the referendum campaign, so people could go to the polls making a decision based on fact. But with the decision to leave having now been taken, the absence of such a plan means we are completely in the dark and rudderless. NSA is working on a list of priorities for the sheep sector and, knowing that other stakeholders will be doing the same, we want to work together to ensure a single voice for agriculture. Now is not the time for one-upmanship. Now is the time for clear dialogue & direction.

We want to set an example for the politicians and fight side-by-side for a positive future.”

P

NSA appreciates there will be many business sectors calling for action, but with farming and food providing more than 3.5 million jobs and contributing to 7% of the UK economy, it is clearly a sector that needs priority treatment.

Phil continues: “Farming is not only important to the economy, to employment and to the survival of rural communities, it also produces the most essential ingredient of life – food. Ensuring food security for the nation is essential at a time when markets, economies and political relationships are highly volatile, yet farming has taken a back seat in discussions before and after last week’s vote. A united voice from the agricultural sector must be heard. And the politicians who encouraged people to ‘vote leave’ need to be held to the attractive promises they made.”

08 | Farming Monthly | July 2016

NSA is consulting within its regional structure to finalist a list of priorities for the sheep sector, and is discussing options with other stakeholders about a united approach on the future of agriculture support and farming regulations."

In addition to the NSA position on the Brexit outcome, Christopher Findley, Private Wealth Partner at Bircham Dyson Bell had this to say: “The agricultural industry will now face the removal of the Common Agricultural Policy and all its subsidies, compliance regime and environmental legislation. Farmers will need to have their concerns addressed quickly and urgent fiscal and

political decisions are now needed. Without any support UK agriculture will face a deep recession and bankruptcy on a large scale.

Farmers have long criticised that whilst Brussels produced the framework legislation, UK legislators ‘gold-plated these with over-detailed rules resulting in a strict compliance regime and unnecessary red tape. It would be a false hope to think that Brexit will now lead to a bonfire of regulations and to a regulatory ‘light touch’ in respect of farm subsidy compliance and environmental control. It is likely that many aspects of the subsidy and compliance regime will be rolled over.”

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Pests

Rat control just got a bit more complicated..

Let’s assume that you have got your ‘ticket’ to continue buying and using ‘professional use’ rodenticides. Either you’ve got one of the new ‘Certificates of Competence’ or you’re a member of one of the ‘approved’ Farm Assurance Schemes. hat now? Carry on as before?

We sincerely hope not, for if we carry on as before, we’ll not see the reduction in uncontrolled leakage of these powerful and persistent chemicals into the environment which almost got them banned in the first place.

If we all agree that the label instructions on a pesticide have to be followed, then we all need to know what the recent changes actually mean in practice. They will require changes in the useage

W

practices of all professional users.

If not, we’ll lose these products and rat control will get a lot more difficult and expensive.

Firstly, the labels got a whole lot bigger, with the inclusion of the paragraph: Read the label before use. Using this product in a manner that is inconsistent with the label may be an offence. Refer to the CRRU UK Code of Best Practice (or equivalent) for guidance.

In other words, the CRRU UK Code of Best Practice is effectively part of the label, so must be followed.

Do you have a copy? Have you read it? Do you understand the practical implications of what it says? Have you got a written Environmental Risk Assessment for your property? Are you following the ‘Hierarchy of Risk’ requirements?

If you answer ‘no’ to any of the above, then you had better get advice as otherwise you could be in breach of the new requirements.

Secondly, the ‘fields of use’ on the labels – where you can or cannot use each product – have changed. It used to be a choice between ‘indoors only’ and ‘indoors and outdoors’, but not anymore. Now for ‘outdoors’ you have to choose between products that are approved for use ‘in and around buildings’ and those that have approval for ‘open areas’, when you buy your rat bait.

Once again, if you are unsure what these phrases mean, get advice, otherwise you could be breaking the Law. But does this all actually matter?

Who is going to know what you are doing on your own property, other than perhaps your Farm Assurance auditor on his annual visit?

Well, a key measure of success – or failure – of the Rodenticide Stewardship Regime, will be the results of anticoagulant residue analysis of non-target animals, especially from Barn Owls. The

industry is expected to provide data from at least 100 owls per year and the HSE are expecting to see a ‘significant reduction’ in residue levels as a result of these new requirements.

As most owls die from road traffic accidents, these bodies will tend to be on or near public highways and high residue levels will trigger a Wildlife Incident If we all agree that the label instructions on a pesticide have to be followed, then we all need to know what the recent changes actually mean in practice.

Investigation. If you are unlucky enough to be nearby, you will be investigated. What will they find?

Proper use of rat bait, properly documented, or what….?

One option, of course, is to employ a properly qualified, experienced and insured professional pest controller to take over the increasingly complicated rodent control on your farm.

The author is a Director of the National Pest Technicians Association. Telephone 01773 717 716 for assistance in finding an NPTA Member near you.

Label changes imminent Pest controllers and farmers are being reminded that all product labels of ‘Second Generation Anti-coagulant Rodenticides’ (SGAR’s) will need to be revised this year, in line with CRRU (Campaign for Responsible Rodenticide Use). roduct labels will include a new ‘stewardship phrase’ stating that it can only be applied by certified individuals, who are able to demonstrate compliance with UK rodenticide stewardship.

And leading the way in the roll out of this change is Bayer, the first company to amend all labels for their entire range of second generation rodenticide products.

Four products that make up the Bayer Rodilon® range will all come to the market at the same time with this stewardship message, during July.

“We know our products are essential to rodent control but we

P

understand the need to address the wider environmental impact, in an industry led solution to responsible rodenticide use,” says Richard Moseley, technical manager, Bayer.

“We work very closely with CRRU and our commitment to rodenticide stewardship is crucial to ensuring that our products are used in the most responsible way possible,” he adds.

Remaining stocks of old label products that do not require proof of competence will be available for purchase until 1 October 2016, and can be used up until 31 March 2017. After that date it will be illegal to use old label products.

July 2016 | Farming Monthly | 09

| On Topic

Farmer slashes water consumption connected Avocado farm Avocado trees monitored around the clock get irrigated water only when needed; farmer uses IoT to reduce water consumption he Internet of Things (IoT) is destined to touch every aspect of human endeavour making factories smarter, supply chains intelligent and now farms such as the first connected avocado farms, saving farmers vast amounts of water in growing avocados in the process.

IoT technology pioneer Spirent Communications plc is leading the charge with its open eco-system partners such as Oasis Smart Sim through its connectivity and embedded subscription business and recently showcased various connected solutions at the IoT World exhibition.

T

It takes 74 gallons of water to produce one pound of avocados and drought-stricken California produces 95 percent of avocados grown in the United States. Nearly all are grown in Southern California, in a five-county region that straddles the coast from San Luis Obispo to San Diego.

Like the rest of the state, the southern coastal region is locked in a drought and largely cut off from the flow of surface water from the state's big irrigation projects.

Avocado groves have been hit badly with sky-high water costs and reliance on water pumped from underground aquifers.

Water consumption is regulated in California with the state entering

10 | Farming Monthly | July 2016

its fourth year of drought resulting in water regulators imposing sweeping and draconian restrictions on the use of water.

The State Water Resources Control Board has even urged Californians to let their lawns die.

Some avocado farmers in California feeling the heat have turned to new methods in growing avocados such as higher density planting which enables some to produce twice as much fruit for the same amount of water.

But a new initiative from Spirent Communications in bringing about connected avocado farms might just be the perfect solution to make further inroads into lowering spiralling water costs.

... towards Spirent connected avocado farms Kurt Bantle is a senior solution manager at Spirent Communications and has 900 young avocado trees planted in his "back garden" in Southern California. Within his remit to develop Spirent's IoT offering, he decided to experiment into how avocados could be grown using less water through soil moist monitoring and automated irrigation.

Bantle divided his farm into 22 irrigation blocks and inserted two soil moisture measurement units into each block. The units contain a LoRa unit for narrow band data communication to a LoRa gateway

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| On Topic

by 75% at IoT by 75% and gets put under utility surveillance for suspected meter tampering as a result. which has broadband cellular uplink connectivity functionality.

The gateway also contains a Spirent partner Oasis reprogrammable SIM which becomes the enabler in remote water provisioning. All soil moisture data is collected from the avocado trees into a cloud and visualised by a presentation layer.

When a tree needs to be watered, the solution turns the sprinklers on automatically to get the correct level of soil moisture for each tree. It then turns them off when the correct moisture levels are reached. The connected trees are monitored constantly day and night.

"Avocado trees typically take 4

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

acre feet (1 acre foot = 326000 gallons) of water per acre per year.

This is not only to supply the needed water, but also to leach the salts which build up in the soil," says Bantle.

"The soil moisture sensors let me drastically reduce water usage by telling me when to water and how deep to water to push the salts past the bulk of the rooting zone. The majority of the roots are in the top 8 inches of soil so there is a sensor there and one at 24 inches so I can see when I've watered deep enough to get the salts out of the rooting zone," adds Bantle.

He spent $8,200 for LoRa stations with soil moisture sensors,

valve controllers Lora gateway and cellular backhaul to soil moist monitor and automate, just-in-time irrigation.

The results proved staggering.

The annual cost of watering his 900 avocado trees was $47,336.

By connecting his trees with IoT technology, his annual water bill dropped to just $11,834 ... a 75% cost reduction. The hardware investment was recovered within the first six months.

But the results go far beyond the world of this pioneering farmer.

It paves the way for millions of small, medium and large-sized farms around the globe to emulate his experiment and slash millions of dollars off the cost of growing

Kurt Bantle fruit and vegetables.

The connectivity solution provided by Spirent together with its IoT ecosystem partners for avocado trees applies to every type of vegetable and fruit farming including almonds, olives, apples, oranges and tomatoes.

Spirent's Embedded Connectivity solution will be launched during 2016 in a phased manner so that the commercially available solution conforms to the corresponding GSMA specification releases.

July 2016 | Farming Monthly | 11

| Arable

To crop or not to crop With cereal prices still at a low ebb, the decision whether to crop problem areas or not is an important one for many arable farmers. The Stowmarket Monitor Farm, which held its open day on 10 June, is no different. onitor Farm host Brian Barker said: “You need to know at what point you are better off putting the poorest parts of your farm into Countryside Stewardship (CSS) and maximising yields and efficiency on the rest.

Does the new stewardship scheme offer a viable alternative?”

At the open day, local famers and visitors to the Monitor Farm discussed the future options for one of the fields at Lodge Farm.

Shrubbery Field is an irregularly shaped area of 13.5ha, surrounded by ditches, hedges and woodland. The bottom left corner of the field has high black-grass pressure. The field has been in winter wheat for two years, but is now growing herbage grass seed for the next three summers.

Brian describes this field as an average field over his farm: "It has a history of good consistent yields but nothing spectacular due to lower yields around the headland and in the short working corners."

In 2014/15, the crop net margin from the field varied significantly from a good profit on the higher-yielding areas to a loss on the poor parts (excluding BPS, rent and finance).

Members of the Monitor Farm group at Stowmarket were tasked with coming up with options for the field, taking into account: - Field shape and topography - Black-grass burden - Yield variation - Cost/efficiency of operation - Impact of drainage and woods - Opportunities provided by CSS Options that Brian highlighted to the group included: • Wall-to-wall crops (no CSS) • Roll over existing HLS options into CSS, with 0.5ha existing CSS and 13ha crops • New CSS (halfway house), 2.2ha CSS and 11.3ha crops • New CSS (straight line farming), 3.5ha CSS and 10ha crops • New CSS (maximum CSS income options), 4ha CSS and 9.5ha crops The final option, which would involve farming

M

just a rectangle in the middle of the field that fitted in with tramline width and leaving the rest for CSS, was calculated to be the most profitable at current prices. However, if wheat climbed to above £160 then other field options with larger cropped areas proved more profitable but only just.

The group exercises completed by the attending farmers came up with very similar options to those that Brian had highlighted. The general feeling on the day was that CSS could give a stable income over some areas of the farm.

“The new CSS doesn't have to cover the whole farm and so you can cherry-pick the best areas to deliver wildlife benefit as well as streamlining farm operation efficiency. The new scheme would pay by the option, so picking the right options for your farm can be very helpful in improving your farming system,” Brian said.

"CSS cannot be ignored in the current economic climate and I would be looking for a high percentage of my farm to apply the halfway house or straight line farming options to, but would have to consider location of options close to footpaths, tracks and roads so that wildlife areas are not disturbed by people using the paths.”

Tim Isaac, East Anglia Manager for AHDB Cereals & Oilseeds, said: “With current prices and agronomic challenges, there may be some situations where it’s better to leave loss making areas uncropped and look at stewardship options instead. Missing awkward corners and compacted headlands to employ straight line farming could reduce operating costs and increase yields. It may even create the opportunity to reduce fixed costs across the whole farm.”

Farm business management consultant Edward Barker added: “Although the CSS had a number of teething problems in 2015, it is wrong to think that it should be avoided at all costs. One of its great benefits is that it is a part farm scheme: you can put in as many or as few options as you wish across your farm. This means you can leave your more productive fields out of an agreement, and place more

options in a difficult or less profitable field. As a result, it is an excellent way of maximising income opportunities across a holding.”

Farm update Brian and the farm have been on a huge learning curve with their new strip till and direct drills. As well as experiencing the wettest year in the past five years (715mm in 11 months, against the five-year average of 610mm). Off the back of the Monitor Farm winter meetings and discussions with the AHDB guest speakers at the meetings they have made some changes to their farming system and their agronomy.

Some are still trials but other have been rolled out over their total acreage.

“Although the CSS had a number of teething problems in 2015, it is wrong to think that it should be avoided at all costs” The main changes include: • Applied liquid fertiliser top ups to the outside 6m of all crops • Increased micronutrients by loading them on early and then applying more specific nutrients later on if required.

• Applied sulphur with every nitrogen application to all crops.

• Reduced establishment costs by £159/ha • Trialling cover crops and some no-till • Fallowed some fields due to wet spring and grass rotation • Burnt off all the worst black-grass areas early when high plant numbers were found and mowing out worst patches again as they show up (7ha removed to date) • Drained 8ha, the farm’s first scheme since 1980s The next round of winter meetings at the Stowmarket Monitor Farm start on 4 November 2016 (11am at Wyverstone Village Hall, IP14 4SH) and continue on the first Friday of the month through to February 2017.

For more information, contact Tim Isaac, tim.isaac@ahdb.org.uk or 07964 975 078

Improving oilseed rape profitability Choosing an OSR variety with a high oil output can make a real difference to profitability in challenging market conditions, and should be one of the first considerations when choosing an OSR variety this autumn, says David Leaper of Agrii. hile varietal traits such as vigour, yield and disease resistance are rightly high on the agenda when assessing and choosing OSR varieties, oil content is often overlooked.

However oil bonuses are becoming increasingly important in the profitability of winter OSR and should be one of the starting points when choosing a new variety, he says.

“At 1.5% of the “double low” contract price for every 1% over 40% oil, oil bonuses on

W

12 | Farming Monthly | July 2016

£270/tonne base price can still bring in an extra £96.7/ha at 4t/ha for a crop over the 46% level.”

“Oil content is a stable trait in a variety so is a fairly guaranteed return and the overall premium only increases with yield, so its money in the bank.

“There are few if any ways to boost the oil content of a variety agronomically. On the other hand late-flowering applications of foliar nitrogen can reduce oil content but this is generally off-set by higher seed yields.“ The 14 most popular ‘double low’ varieties,

which account for about 70% of national planting, vary quite widely in their oil contents and therefore potential oil bonus, Mr Leaper notes.

“Looking at the AHDB oil bonus official trials data, Charger which is one of the top ten varieties in terms of seed yield at 107% of the controls, does not do so well on oil bonus for only offering 43.9% oil content and a resulting bonus of £85/ha.

“Campus, although a poorer yielder at 104% of the controls, does a bit better with an oil

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Arable

Strike a pose - bringing crop analysis into the 21st Century with automated field phenomics Scientists from The Genome Analysis Centre (TGAC) and the John Innes Centre (JIC) have received a grant from Norwich Research Park Translational fund for CropQuant, a computerised infield crop monitoring workstation for precision agriculture. ropQuant uses Raspberry Pi computers to control infield cameras to capture and process crop growth images.

In-depth analysis is then conducted on TGAC’shigh performance computers (HPC) to enable scientists across Norwich Research Park to link environmental data with crop growth and development to reduce farming costs.

Rising temperatures, drought, nitrogen uptake, plant disease and crop lodging are major threats to global crop production. While experienced breeders or farmers could identify some issues at early stages, human observations are expensive, time-consuming and sometimes subjective.

Advanced DNA sequencing technologies have made crop genome assembly a reality; however, these advances are restricted by the low-throughput and inaccurate field phenotyping. In order to enable agricultural practitioners (crop breeders and researchers, and farmers) to improve crop yields through field-based phenotyping methods.(1) Automated phenomics is introduced to measure phenomes, physical and biochemical yield traits of organisms, as they change in response to genetic mutations and environmental influences.

As an infield phenomics solution – CropQuant – invented by Dr Ji Zhou (TGACJIC) and Dr Simon Griffiths (JIC), the device continuously monitors crop growth to quantify structural features. This compares the crop’s DNA for early identification of typical genetic traits - such as drought, heat tolerance, disease resistance and nutrition; reducing potential costs.

Currently being utilised in a wheat field trial project on the Norwich Research Park CropQuant can automate the capturing of crop growth and quantify drought adaptation and colour changes during the growing season by utilising the workstation’s imagery and statistical results.

C

“The Agri-Tech industry indicates that the emerging field phenomics market demands cost-effective and reliable phenotyping devices, which can automate crop growth measurements and extract key yield traits data in a realistic field environment,” said Dr Ji Zhou, Phenomics Project Leader at TGAC. “CropQuant will provide an affordable solution to prevent crop losses, contributing to food security, as well as industrial and academic purposes.”

CropQuant, together with a tailored highthroughput analysis pipeline, surpasses existing crop phenotyping solutions in cost (2), mobility and maintenance. Environmentally, to aid precision agriculture, CropQuant could help farmers and breeders to control chemical applications to specific regions identified by workstations - protecting the quality of surrounding land and water.

To reliably quantify large crop phenotypic features, Dr Ji Zhou is developing new algorithms to conduct data analysis directly in the field using CropQuant. This function will be exceptionally beneficial for breeders or growers to speed-up their crop selection process. The

TGAC/JIC team are currently working with industrial partners to test CropQuant and gauge interest from targeted beneficiaries.

CropQuant can also be used in large crop improvement programmes conducted by leading biotech companies, agricultural research institutes, crop insurance companies, and governments accountable for preventing crop losses.

Dr Zhou, added: “We have not identified a comparable commercialised device in both industry and academia to CropQuant. Some research groups have placed digital cameras in the field to perform continuous crop imaging.

However, due to the design limit, those infield devices could only acquire images and do not have computation capabilities. Hence, they are limited in computer controlling and infield crop quantification, which cannot be easily improved for automated phenotyping and precision agriculture.

“The CropQuant device has a real potential to function as a service for agricultural practitioners and will benefit precision agriculture practices in the East Anglia region.”

content of 45.3% bringing in a bonus of £112/ha, which means that there is not actually much difference between the varieties in terms of gross output.”

“The conventional variety Nikita at 108% seed yield has one of the highest oil contents on the recommended list at 45.6% and therefore tops the AHDB official trials for both the east/west and north regions for oil bonus payment, bringing in an extra £129/ha and £118/ha, respectively.

This makes a big difference to the overall gross output of the variety and puts it right at the top in terms of profitability.

“It has been recognised for many years that oil contents are generally lower as you go further north, which is why Nikita has a slightly lower bonus in the north than in the east/west – but it’s still the top variety on the RL countrywide.”

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

July 2016 | Farming Monthly | 13

| Arable

Weak pound strengthens cereals exports Weakness in the Sterling since the start of 2016 has supported a boom in cereals exports, says the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB).

K grains have been amongst the most competitively priced in the world this season, generating strong demand from both inside the EU and further afield.

Season-to-date (July – April) barley exports are 35 per cent ahead of the same point last year at 1.76Mt. Forecasts suggest the pace is set to continue with exports hitting 1.9Mt by the end of the season – a 19 year high.

For wheat, season-to-date exports are nearly 30 per cent ahead of the same point in 2014/15 at 2.23Mt, a level not reached since 2011/12.

Dr Martin Grantley-Smith, AHDB Strategy Director for Cereals & Oilseeds, said: “We are gathering information on destinations for UK cereals and where we see newcomers to the market or changes in demand, we will be following up to secure trade on a longer-term basis.

“Although currency is always a driving factor in the global marketplace, we have excellent messages about the quality and traceability of cereals grown in the UK which stand us in good stead to develop strategic relationships with

U

overseas buyers who are less familiar with our products.”

Significantly increased requirements year-onyear have been seen in the traditional EU exports markets of France, Spain, Portugal and the Netherlands on the back of the pound slipping in value against the euro, making UK grain more competitive.

Dr Grantley-Smith added: “We are seeing unprecedented levels of exports at the moment, driven by stock carry over, competitive pricing and the weakened currency. While we’d usually be expecting exports to dry up by this time of year as old crop runs out, we envisage that exports will remain strong so long as UK grain remains competitively priced at an EU and global level.

“Even depressed markets are underpinned by exports and the strong pace of grain leaving the UK provides some bolster for a domestic market dominated by oversupply.”

Ongoing investment in port capacity at the Port of Tilbury and Peel Ports has also seen additional shipments leaving UK shores.

Frontier recently announced a 55,000t shipment of UK wheat had left Tilbury on a bulk

vessel bound for Indonesia. Meanwhile, Glencore Grain saw the first ever shipment from Peel Ports’ new grain loading facility at Sheerness, which left for Ireland at the beginning of June with 4,400t of wheat.

Paul Temple, AHDB Cereals & Oilseeds Chair, said: “It is great news that the industry is collaborating and investing in new, bigger and better grain storage and loading facilities. We are seeing more bulk carriers leave the UK with loads of more than 50,000t than we ever have in the past. This gives growers access to markets both on the doorstep and more far flung corners of the globe.

“It is a reminder that we truly operate in a global market and new opportunities can open up, even in difficult times,” he added.

AHDB Market Intelligence analysts say currency volatility will continue to be a key watch factor for UK cereals and oilseeds markets. For more on AHDB Cereals & Oilseeds work with overseas buyers and information on growing for export, visit cereals.ahdb.org.uk/exports

UK farmers benefit from Trade Prosperity shipment The UK’s biggest single shipment of grain is now loading at the Port of Immingham on the east coast, which is set to move 70,000 tonnes of feed wheat from UK growers across Yorkshire and Lincolnshire, to Vietnam in Asia Pacific. ith the trade fulfilled by Glencore Grain UK, it will have taken the crop yield from some 18,000 acres (7333 ha) and transported by over 2500 lorry loads to complete loading of the 229 metre vessel, mv Trade Prosperity.

When she sets sail in early July, the journey should take Trade Prosperity around 34 days to cover the 12,370 nautical miles to Vietnam, via the Cape of Good Hope, at an average speed of 15 knots.

Announcing the start of loading, Glencore Grain UK Managing Director, James Maw, said: “The scale of this record-breaking export exemplifies the importance of access to world

W

14 | Farming Monthly | July 2016

trade for UK growers.

“It highlights the essential role of contacts and experience offered by the global Glencore Agricultural products division in successfully negotiating the business half-way around the world, and then the immense logistics of physically delivering the supply of grain from UK farms.”

Glencore farm trader for Yorkshire and South Humberside, Julian Dunning, added: “After the huge harvest of 2015 it has been imperative to move large stocks of grain, before the new crop comes in this summer. This trade will have had a significant impact in underpinning all important crop values for the new season.”

He reported that with the vast scale of this

shipment, the company have had to work with a large numbers of farmers to co-ordinate and move the required volume of wheat. “We are fortunate to have so many extremely professional growers who understand the demands and have helped to achieve the loading, along with an excellent port facility at Immingham, operated by ABP, with the capability to manage such an immense shipment.”

Hitherto, the biggest single shipment of grain from the UK is believed to have been 66,000 tonnes, with most port capabilities limited to around 50,000 tonnes by loading facilities and deep water access.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Arable

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

July 2016 | Farming Monthly | 15

| Cereals

Upbeat Cereals 2016 as farmers build knowledge Cereals, the UK’s leading arable technical event took place at Chrishall Grange in Cambridgeshire on June 15 – 16 attracting visitors in search of information on new products, practical advice and insight into industry issues. he first day was exceptionally busy with over 1,200 tickets scanned in the first 20 minutes of the gates opening,” explains Cereals Event Director Jon Day, “and from the exhibitor comments so far, we know that while times are tough, our visitors are seeking the agronomic information, market insight and product knowledge that will ensure their businesses are sustainable now and in the future.”

Registration by BASIS members at this year’s Cereals event set a new record of over 1,700 during the two days.

BASIS Chief Executive Stephen Jacob commented: “our stand has seen visitor numbers increase for the past nine years in a row. This year we saw general attendance increase by more than 12%.”

With over 500 organisations exhibiting at the event, most of the 24,000 visitors attending the event took full advantage of the opportunities to network and meet existing and new suppliers..

“We were very busy, especially on the first day with many good enquiries and demo requests,” says Andrew Gamble, Marketing Manager of Väderstad. “As a smart, well organised show Cereals is ideal for us to present new products and meet and greet existing and potential customers.”

Everything we needed For Will Mallon, Managing Director of WM Agri 2016 was his first Cereals. “Cereals is the perfect opportunity for visitors to see and compare machinery. For example, we’d a customer that had been interested in our 5.3m maize blade for a while but wanted to see it for real before committing – he bought it there and then.”

Cutting edge technology Rothamsted Research showcased cutting edge technology in crop monitoring and innovative approaches to controlling pests, weeds and diseases at a joint-stand with partner institutes, which also receive strategic funding from the BBSRC, such as the John Innes Centre and the Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences (IBERS).

“Our hexacopter drone and a model of the Institute’s ‘Field Scanalyzer’ crop phenotyping

T

16 | Farming Monthly | July 2016

facility caught the attention of technology enthusiasts, says Dr Matina Tsalavouta Head of Communications & Public Engagement, “but for many farmers, the major talking-point was blackgrass and Cereals provided the opportunity for us to describe our work on herbicide-resistance and for farmers and scientists to share knowledge and experiences of controlling the weed.”

Other key areas at Cereals included improved cultivation and better soil health with The Soil Pit – a new feature for 2016 sponsored

by NIAB TAG and Rothamsted Research. It showed how cover crops can influence resilience to flood and drought, organic matter accumulation, leaching prevention, nutrient capture and nitrogen fixing.

“The Soil Pit was very popular. It allowed people to see what happens below ground,” says Dr Tsalavouta, “by inviting them to step 1.5 metres beneath the field surface and view layers in the soil.”

One of the busiest events of the two day show was the Brexit debate hosted by the Oxford Farming Conference in a packed Arable Conference marquee. With close to 400 visitors keen to hear both sides, Farming Today’s Anna Hill brought some challenging questions asked by the audience to the speakers. Each participant was given a voting slip – and asked to leave by the ‘remain’ or ‘leave’ exit – the results were in keeping with other polls done on the day: Cereals event ‘Brexit Polls’ OUT: 64% IN: 36% “The panel session on the loss of active ingredients was also very well attended,” said Martin Davies, Oxford Farming Conference (OFC) Chairman, “giving event visitors a full and concerning update on the challenging regulatory environment in Europe.”

Cereals ‘must sees’ Visitors attending took full advantage of the Cereals ‘must-sees’ including displays of crop plots, business and specialist areas, machinery, post-harvest technology, renewables, spraying technology and equipment. A full programme of demonstrations took place in the Syngenta Sprays and Sprayers Arena.

Another first for 2016 was the event’s official support of a charity – the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (R.A.B.I).

Natalie Reed, Marketing Manager for Cereals comments, “2016 is the first year that we have had an official charity, and we are delighted at the support R.A.B.I has received from our exhibitors and visitors – thank you to everyone who took the time to find out more about this important charity and it’s work, and for all the donations.”

Stephen Noble, Head of Fundraising & Development at Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution continues, “We were thrilled to be chosen as the charity partner, as we recognised the huge potential of an industry-leading event to spread the word about R.A.B.I’s work and we grabbed the chance to make some brilliant new contacts over the two days, while cementing existing relationships. Best of all, we raised around £3,750; the vast majority of which was from collections on the exit gates, alongside a small raffle and calendar sales. We cannot thank Haymarket Events and Cereals enough for this wonderful opportunity.”

Plans underway for 2017 With the success of 2016 still fresh and top of mind - and #cereals16 topping 6,030 tweets this month – work is already underway on plans for new features for 2017’s event which will focus on areas of current relevance to growers from soil and drainage, to specialist crops and specialist business advice. These concept areas include: • The Specialist Crop Zone: dedicated to exploring novel plants and varieties that can thrive in the current agronomic environment, have added value and potential for the future.

• ‘Tomorrow’s World’: a glimpse at the most exciting up-coming technologies with applications to the arable sector • The Knowledge Bank: a chance for a short one-to-one consultation with the specialist of your choice: finance, legal, engineering, take your pick • Drainage & Soil: following on from the success of The Soil Pit, a chance to examine the impact of farm machinery and traffic on a designated plot

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Cereals

Fusarium monitoring: Infection risk update By the end of June, most of the GB winter crop area had reached or passed midflowering, with most of this crop area at moderate to high risk of fusarium infection, according to monitoring work funded by AHDB Cereals & Oilseeds. usarium head blight (FHB), which can lower both yield and quality of the harvested crop, can be caused by fungal Fusarium and Microdochium species. In wheat, F. graminearum and F. culmorum dominate, producing DON and ZON mycotoxins.

The AHDB fusarium monitoring service, which is led by ADAS, has been running since 2014 to provide the industry with a preharvest indication of regional mycotoxin risk.

The fusarium infection risk levels are determined using a simple model, which was developed and piloted as part of earlier AHDB-funded research.

The model uses flowering information, as well as daily rainfall data, to provide regional estimates of fusarium infection risk.

Crop growth stage information, used in the monitoring reports, is gathered by an established network of independent agronomists covering 30 counties in England and Scotland.

The weekly risk reports,

F

published on cereals.ahdb.org.uk/monitoring throughout the main flowering period, included a regional breakdown of the proportion of winter wheat crops flowering and estimates of whether they are at ‘very high’, ‘high’, ‘medium’ or ‘low risk’ of fusarium infection.

Dhan Bhandari, who manages grain quality research at AHDB, said: “So much of fusarium mycotoxin risk is driven by rainfall during the crucial GS59–69 and GS87–harvest periods.

“Last year, the main flowering period in England and Wales in mid-June was largely dry, so infection risk was low for many crops.

“So far, this summer has been far wetter and it has driven up the risk of winter wheat crops becoming infected by fusarium.”

Although the fusarium monitoring work provides a reasonable estimate of the fusarium infection risk across the country, actual field-level infection risk can deviate from the regional averages significantly.

Field-level risk is driven by many factors and growers are

advised to read AHDB guidance to put them in the strongest position to manage fusarium infection risks and mycotoxins as part of an industry-wide effort.

Dr Bhandari continued: “Due to the local nature of summer downpours, it is important that growers include rainfall figures from each field on the mycotoxin risk assessment.

“As always, we also advise that growers combine and store weathered or lodged crop areas separately and take grain samples to be in a strong position to market the crop and get the best return.”

How to sample grain In 2013, AHDB Cereals & Oilseeds issued its grain sampling guide, covering the essentials of when to sample and how to do it.

Four key periods for sampling exist. The first period is at harvest to establish the quality and direct grain storage and marketing decisions. The second is during storage to protect quality, by flagging up early signs of spoilage or infestation. The third is as grain leaves the farm to provide a record of what has been sold. The fourth is at commercial intake, where

Dhan Bhandari

buyers confirm that grain quality meets expectations.

If you would like to know more about sampling, including the difference between an ‘incremental’, ‘aggregate’ and ‘representative’ sample and how sampling can help you reduce waste and minimise charges, claims and rejections, visit cereals.ahdb.org.uk/harvesttoolkit The AHDB Harvest Toolkit web page also includes links to the latest mycotoxin information, as well as useful guidance to help growers avoid the most common problems associated with cereals and oilseed sales contracts.

Launch of new fully portable weighbridge Griffith Elder are pleased to announce that at the Cereals 2016 Exhibition they launched a new and innovative design of weighbridge that is fully portable. nlike conventional truck scales which need to be bolted down in one position, the Griffith Elder Portable Weighbridge can be moved from one site to another without re-calibration and with the minimum of fuss.

Conventional weighbridges go out of calibration when moved, however the Griffith Elder portable weighbridge is digitally calibrated in the factory and does not need to be recalibrated each time it is moved. Made to sit on a flat concrete surface the Griffith Elder Portable Weighbridge can be assembled on site within an hour. It is disassembled even more quickly when moving to a new site.

Each component of the portable digital weighbridge weighs less than 2.2 tonnes, so a typical farm telehandler can easily pick up and place each part. The weigh-beams just plug into each other with a single cable going back to the indicator and printer. David Elder says “We call it ‘plug-and-weigh’ because that’s what it is.”

The Portable Weighbridge can be run from mains electricity, or, if required can be powered from a 12 volt battery or solar panel battery charger. So, no electricity is needed at the site for the weighbridge.

U

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

There are a number of different widths and lengths to choose from. Most common are 3 or 3.5 metres wide and 15.3 or 18.3 metres long, though 21.3 metres long truck scales are becoming more popular as the lengths of lorries grow.

A range of software which is compatible with the Griffith Elder Portable Weighbridge is available to suit most farming businesses.

Griffith Elder provide grain storage software which does everything from automatically taking in moisture and other parameters from a meter such as the Dickey John or the Infratec Grain Analyser to providing full costs on the drying and storage of grain. A different software package for silage making stores all information on the intake of whole crop, including dry matter calculations and the amount in each clamp; and yet another specialist software is used for straw bale storage, again including dry matter and costs per tonne for storage.

Griffith Elder have weighbridges sold in the 1980s still working today. No messing, straight forward engineering from a British company.

For further information contact: 01284 719619 or visit www.griffith-elder.com

July 2016 | Farming Monthly | 17

| Arable

Contact your nearest dealer: Agratech NW Ltd Unit 8 Dale Mill Burnley Road East Lancashire BB4 9HU 01706 211399 www.agratech.co.uk

Sprayer Spares Ltd Unit 2-3 Moorlands Trading Estate Moor Lane Metheringham Lincoln LN4 3HX 01526 323521 www.sprayerspares-ltd.co.uk

18 | Farming Monthly | July 2016

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Cereals

New Holland’s Methane Power tractor makes UK debut at Cereals Farmers attending this year’s Cereals event got their first look at New Holland’s T6.180 Methane Power tractor which was unveiled at Agritechnica. he second generation prototype is based on a New Holland T6.180 standard tractor and features a 175hp (129kW) Nef 6 engine developed by FPT Industrial that delivers 740Nm torque.

The nine gas cylinders have a total capacity of 300 litres (52kg)

T

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

compressed methane, sufficient for approximately half a day of normal tractor operations.

The second generation Methane Power T6.180 delivers significant fuel saving of 20% to 40% compared to conventional fuels.

This tractor is an important step in achieving New Holland’s goal of energy independent farming as the methane is generated through

renewable biomass production.

When using bio-methane, the machine’s carbon impact is virtually zero.

On environmental performance, the new machine has 80% less polluting emissions than a standard diesel tractor and is already capable of fulfilling future greenhouse gas targets, which are expected to require a 20% reduction in emissions across

Europe by 2020.

The Methane Power tractor was located at the New Holland stand and the company’s staff were in attendance to demonstrate its skills and answer any queries.

This tractor is an important step in achieving New Holland’s goal of energy independent farming

July 2016 | Farming Monthly | 19

| Cereals

John Deere previews new sprayer at Cereals Event Featuring a larger 5000-litre capacity spray tank and a new ultra-lightweight but extremely strong carbon fibre boom, John Deere’s new R4050i self-propelled sprayer made its UK & Ireland show debut at Cereals 2016 in Cambridgeshire in June. cheduled to be in full production at the John Deere Horst factory in the Netherlands for the 2018 season, the R4050i will join the existing R4040i 4000-litre self-propelled model in the company’s market leading sprayer range in limited numbers from early 2017. Weight distribution on this bigger machine has been improved by removing around 900kg from the rear through the use of the carbon fibre boom, alongside the extra weight of liquid carried in the larger tank.

Able to spray at widths of 18 or 36m, the high-performance spray boom is considerably lighter than steel or aluminium designs.

However, the carbon fibre material used in its construction is around 5.5 times stronger than steel and is able to flex, which relieves the boom structure from the stress that can cause fractures in metal booms. The carbon fibre boom is specially designed to withstand the high dynamic loads created at high application speeds of 20 to 30kph, even with very wide booms.

The reduced weight of the carbon fibre boom, at around five times lighter than a steel equivalent, also has benefits for ride performance. The boom’s low inertia greatly reduces the undesirable roll and yaw movement often seen in wide spray booms. In addition automatic boom levelling systems, like

S

20 | Farming Monthly | July 2016

John Deere’s own BoomTrac, are able to control the ultra-lightweight boom with greater precision, enabling lower boom heights and higher speeds to be employed.

The R4050i is powered by the same 6.8-litre John Deere PowerTech PSS engine as the smaller machine, producing 235 rated hp (boosted to 255hp with intelligent power management/IPM). This engine meets Stage IV/Final Tier 4 emissions regulations by incorporating selective catalytic reduction (SCR).

The machine’s centrally located, easy to access cab provides a comfortable operating position and offers good visibility both on the road and in the field. The sprayer chassis features dual-strut independent wheel suspension for a smooth, fast ride, and hydraulic track width adjustment as standard.

There is also a choice of two-wheel, four-wheel or crab steering to suit different crop and field conditions.

The R4050i is equipped as standard with the John Deere GreenStar 3 2630 touchscreen display with full FieldDoc spray documentation and ISOBUS compatibility. The sprayer comes AutoTrac ready and with a free JDLink Ultimate subscription for one year, which enables a range of additional FarmSight precision farming solutions including new Remote Display Access and Wireless Data Transfer, as well as Service Advisor Remote.

Other standard features include a Hydro Handle multi-functional control lever, Solution Command electronic sprayer control for automatic filling, mixing, spraying and rinsing, and a 50-litre PowrFill inductor for safe transfer of crop protection chemicals into the main tank.

Total spray pump capacity is a maximum of 560 litres/min, with a flow of up to 380 litres/min.

John Deere’s established BoomTrac automatic boom levelling system can be upgraded to the new variable geometry BoomTrac Pro option, for increased application accuracy and efficiency. BoomTrac Pro automatically adjusts the height of the individual boom wings independently to match the terrain.

Instant crop or soil coverage to the full working width of the sprayer is provided by the standard pressure circulation system, which keeps the liquid solution moving along the stainless steel spray lines and right up to the nozzles, even when not spraying. Once spraying starts, the system feeds the spray lines from both ends to maintain a constant pressure and application rate.

To reduce input costs by minimising overlaps or skips, John Deere’s automatic Section Control system switches individual boom sections on and off when entering or leaving predefined areas, including headlands, while LED boom lights help to maintain high productivity at night.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Cereals

Contact your local dealer AGRICULTURAL MACHINERY GROUNDCARE MACHINERY Ripon Farm Services (Keighley) West Yorkshire Telephone 01535 632661, Visit www.riponfarmservices.com

A J & R Scambler & Sons Ltd Cambridgeshire Telephone 01954 718484, Visit www.compactmachinery.com

Ripon Farm Services (Ripon) North Yorkshire Telephone 01765 692255, Visit www.riponfarmservices.com

Godfreys Kent Telephone 01732 741177, Visit www.godfreys.co.uk

Ripon Farm Services (Stockton) County Durham Telephone 01740 630254, Visit www.riponfarmservices.com

Godfreys East Sussex Telephone 01323 846866, Visit www.godfreys.co.uk

Ripon Farm Services (Tadcaster) North Yorkshire Telephone 01937 835454, Visit www.riponfarmservices.com

Godfreys Berkshire Telephone 0118 402 6870, Visit www.godfreys.co.uk

Ripon Farm Services (Darrington) Pontefract Telephone 01977 795241, Visit www.riponfarmservices.com Ripon Farm Services (Ottringham) Hull Telephone 01964 622351, Visit www.riponfarmservices.com www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

July 2016 | Farming Monthly | 21

| Root Crops

First LightTraxx sugar beet harvester on Chinese soil The world needs sufficient food, while at the same time we want to reduce our ecological footprint.

Therefore Agrifac makes machines according to the “4 e for growers” concept. This means efficiency, economics, ergonomics and ecology are decisive in everything we produce. Only this way we are able to exceed the expectations of customers with the most innovative agricultural sprayers and sugar beet harvesters and keep our innovative and technological lead. he first Holmer Exxact LightTraxx is sold by HOLMER and produced by Agrifac Machinery B.V. in the Netherlands. The machine will work in the northern part of Inner Mongolia, an autonomous region in China, adjacent to Mongolia and Russia in the north. Here the HOLMER distributor has built a new sugar factory. The field structure in this area is middle sized, meaning the plots are smaller (about 3-5 ha) in comparison to the central part of Inner Mongolia, where we see plots between 150 to 200 ha.

For this reason HOLMER/Agrifac have introduced the LightTraxx, a middle sized, compact harvester. Until now in the region, one can count the 2 phase harvesting systems on one hand. These machines harvest in two steps, a seperate harvesting and a seperate

T

loading machine. With the LightTraxx we demonstrate the higher efficiency of this machine for harvesting in one step. Also the machine is very easy to access in case of maintenance, service and cleaning.

All the technique is combined into one light weight sugar beet harvester, the LightTraxx, still having equal capacity compared to bigger machines and prepared to work in both normal and heavy conditions.

Especially the natural variety is what impresses in China’s northern province.

Besides grasslands and fertile farmland, Inner

Mongolia is crossed by mountains and dominated in the north by desert landscapes.

Because of the long winter, the low rainfall in the summer and the nomadic traditions, more intensive agriculture has only developed in the last twenty years. Traditionally, mainly corn, rape, cereals and sunflowers are cultivated. The percentage of sugar beet is however growing every year with about 20%. With the advantages of the LightTraxx, we can rest assured that this is the first of many more sugar beet harvesters traveling from Agrifac Machinery B.V. in the Netherlands to the Orient.

Nutritional quality of carrots boosted by 40% with tailored growing conditions Vegetable growers could increase the nutritional value of their produce by adopting a tailored nutrient programme, potentially securing new premium markets. ccording to trials data, combining key nutrients and bio-stimulants specifically tailored to each field and crop can increase the nutritional value of carrots by 40%, as well as increasing marketable yields by 18%. This has the potential to open up new health food markets at a premium price, further boosting returns to growers.

Millions of people in the UK are known to be deficient in important nutrients, according to Dr Robert Hancock at the James Hutton Institute. “As many as 25 million people are deficient in selenium, 10 million in potassium, eight million in magnesium and three million are low in calcium,” he says. “Produce with higher nutrients, anti-oxidants, bio-actives and glucosinolate provides the option of a healthier lifestyle,

A

without people having to change their eating habits.”

The OptiYield nutritional programme was developed by Emerald Crop Science, with a sophisticated computer software system forecasting broad spectrum soil nutrient availability against demand in crops.

OptiYield then creates a bespoke soil and foliar fertiliser programme for each crop and field. It consists of 12 different nutrients applied throughout the crop’s lifecycle, alongside complementary biostimulants and microbial agents that significantly enhance growth and nutrient uptake.

In independent carrot trials the full programme boosted the potassium content per carrot by 24%, compared to the best practice control. Calcium levels increased by 2.5% and magnesium content rose by 54%.

Iron, another key nutritional

22 | Farming Monthly | July 2016

deficiency in many people, increased by 27%. At the same time, marketable yields jumped by an average of 18% compared to the control.

Simon Fox, director at Emerald Crop Science, says this demonstrates one of the most important aspects of the programme. “We only added a fraction of these nutrients through the foliar part of the programme, but by stimulating the crop at the right time with the right inputs it produces a healthy root mass that pulls all the additional nutrients from the surrounding soil,” he says. In the case of magnesium, only 3kg/ha was added through the programme but it resulted in an increase of 41kg/ha of magnesium in the carrots.

“It is the stimulation to growth that provides the crop with a healthier and larger rooting system, more vigorous

development and better nutrient circulation within the crop,” adds Mr Fox. “This in turn stimulates greater uptake of all nutrients, including things like selenium, and we believe boosts the production of vitamins and polyphenols (antioxidants).”

Improving the quality of food has already been a success for PJ Stirling, which produces high selenium content brussels sprouts for Marks & Spencer. These sprouts sell at a premium to normal types and are a hit with customers. As a result Marks & Spencer has shown interest in other high nutrient vegetables.

“While other supermarkets have a price war going on, M&S and Waitrose side-step this by targeting measurable quality,” says Dr Hancock. “As far as producers are concerned, this is another way into the market.”

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Root Crops

New blight control option Grimme Irrigation - A Gowan Crop Protection Limited can now offer UK growers a completely new blight fungicide for the UK market, Presidium (dimethomorph and zoxamide). echnical Manager Robert Plaice reports that using a fungicide with contact, antisporulant and translaminar activity is key to success with more virulent blight. “The UK blight population is dominated by two particularly aggressive strains - 6_A1 and 13_A2. These strains are characterised by the ability to thrive at lower temperatures, by producing more spores from larger lesions and by cycling extremely quickly. At most stages in the blight life cycle, fungicides need to be able to control spores to stop infection. In Presidium we have two actives that tackle spores well.”

Zoxamide in Presidium acts on cell division of the fungus, preventing formation of the next nucleus, stopping germ tube elongation of spores and preventing infection. This

T

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

contact action occurs as the germ tube grows along the leaf surface or down through the waxy leaf cuticle into the leaf.

There is also anti-sporulant activity which delivers zoxamide’s activity on zoospores, the agent for tuber blight, where it inhibits spore development in the sporangia and subsequent spore release.

By reducing zoospore loading in the crop early on, zoxamide will enhance the activity of other fungicides that act on motile zoospores,” explains Rob. “Dimethomorph in Presidium also has fantastic anti-sporulant activity. It is also locally systemic, moving within the stem to control blight. This systemic activity helps to protect new growth in the leaves and will protect both upper and lower surfaces of leaves.”

Presidium has a Harvest Interval of 7 days.”

total solution

Grimme is a name that professional growers readily identify with potato and root crop machinery. Since irrigation often plays a key part in the potato year, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that Grimme UK has a total solution for this too. rimme Irrigation, available through Grimme’s own retail outlets in the UK, supplies literally everything a grower needs. This includes not just reels, pumps and fuel bowsers but also a complete range of fittings and accessories for Grimme and most other popular systems.

Grimme Primus and Monsun irrigator reels range in size from 90300m up to 125-750m and both are compatible with irrigation booms.

The thickest rear support legs on the market and oversized hydraulic rams are evidence of their inherent strength although this not at the expense of precision controls for faster set up and economic water distribution.

Not to mention unique solutions to some perennial irrigator problems including automatic rain gun levelling, a layflat storage winder as standard and smooth

G

walled drums to prevent damage to the specially designed stretch and wear resistant PE hose.

The reels, which Grimme backs with a 2 year parts warranty, are complemented by a choice of powerful but quiet pumps and fully bunded bowsers – all carrying the Grimme brand and offering the same blend of quality engineering and innovation that customers have come to expect.

However, Grimme Irrigation Centres also carry an extensive range of fittings and accessories to support not just Grimme irrigators but most other popular systems too. What’s more, you will find both parts specialists and service technicians keen to provide the expertise you need to keep your system up to date and performing as it should.

For more information, pick up a copy of the 2016 Grimme Irrigation Catalogue either in branch or online at www.grimme.co.uk

July 2016 | Farming Monthly | 23

| Root Crops

New carrot handling facility at Poskitts set to be the UK's most advanced As one of the UK's larger producers and processors of carrots, potatoes and combinable crops, M H Poskitt Ltd, better known as Poskitts, has chosen leading handling equipment manufacturer Tong Engineering to design a new carrot handling facility in-line with their business objectives of long-term growth, whilst minimising crop wastage. esigned to incorporate the latest optical sorting equipment, the new carrot handling facility is currently being installed on-site at M H Poskitt Ltd in Goole, East Yorkshire, and is set to offer fully automated sorting of Poskitts' over 1000 tons of carrots each week.

The new Tong carrot sorting facility will handle Poskitts washed carrot crop and is designed and built over two levels, incorporating a specially designed mezzanine floor to ensure the complete sorting process can be completed within one building on site at Poskitts. Washed carrots are received onto the new high-care stainless steel sorting line by a series of elevators and conveyors that feed an impressive seven-line optical carrot sorting system which integrates seven fully automated Visar Sortop optical sorters of which Tong is UK distributor. A sophisticated conveying system receives the sorted crop and transfers graded crop to boxes, bags, or onward for cooling, weighing and packing.

D

"As we continue to advance and invest in our vegetable handling processes, we are very focussed on not only improving the throughput and quality of our sorting processes, but we are also very committed to minimising the amount of crop that goes to waste" "As we continue to advance and invest in our vegetable handling processes, we are very focussed on not only improving the

throughput and quality of our sorting processes, but we are also very committed to minimising the amount of crop that goes to waste," explains Guy Poskitt, Managing Director of the family farming business M H Poskitt Ltd. "The new Visar optical sorters use an advanced camera system which will allow us to fine-tune grade specifications, ensuring no good carrots go to waste. Where our previous grading systems required a considerable amount of manual sorting and inspection, the new Visar sorters will sort crop automatically, ensuring a more consistent and accurately sorted end product. This will ultimately increase the percentage of saleable crop, resulting in an even better end product for our customers, including leading supermarkets, whilst maximising our yield for other markets too."

"We are proud to wash, pack and distribute all of our products from one site, ensuring we can control all aspects of production.

Tong Engineering really looked at our aims and objectives for the new sorting facility and have custom-designed an advanced system that meets our requirements, all within one of our existing buildings on site. We are very excited about the capabilities of our new sorting facility from Tong. I'm looking forward to seeing more of our carrot crop going to good use, and in doing so, minimising waste," added Mr Poskitt.

"The new Tong line at Poskitts is one of the largest and most advanced of its kind in the UK," said Charlie Rich, Export Sales Manager at Tong Engineering. "We have worked with M H Poskitt Ltd previously to supply other handling equipment for the farm, so our existing relationship meant that we were able to work very

24 | Farming Monthly | July 2016

closely with Guy and his team on this large-scale project to design it to their exact requirements. The intelligent controls and advanced camera sorting systems integrated within the facility will give Poskitts even more capabilities to achieve an exceptionally high quality end product, and this really reflects their position as one of the UK's leading carrot and vegetable producers."

The new carrot installation is due to be in full production for

Poskitts' busy carrot harvest and processing season this Summer.

"The new Visar optical sorters use an advanced camera system which will allow us to fine-tune grade specifications, ensuring no good carrots go to waste�

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Grassland

Image: Jon Moorby

Improve what you get from grazing with BGS The British Grassland Society has just held its summer meeting in Brittany, where we visited 5 commercial farms, as well as a research farm in Normandy. t was a departure from the norm for us, as the summer meeting is usually hosted by an affiliated local grassland society within the UK. Our group, mostly farmers but also some scientists and commercial members, learned much about livestock farming just across the Channel, as well as experiencing some typically excellent French food and hospitality!

I

“We saw a range of very diverse systems�

Brittany is an important livestock and also vegetable growing region, but NVZ legislation means that stocking rates are strongly limited, in an area where farms are generally considerably smaller than here.

The group were surprised just how constrained the farmers were in terms of stocking density, controlled by N loading rates, as well as strict rules about N applications, such as on maize after grass. However, the British farmers generally felt that their French colleagues have more Government support for farming, for disease control or herd health, as well as in how subsidies are paid.

We saw a range of very diverse systems, from a very foragebased, moderate yield dairy, to high-yielding dairy using a robot

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

with some grazing, as well beef units varying from primarily grass and forage finished animals, to intensive finishing indoors.

However, all had a focus on growing quality forage, and in most cases feed, on-farm, to reduce the cost of bought-in feed.

At the research farm in Normandy, two dairy systems based on grazed grass and maize plus grass were being evaluated for their effectiveness in terms of economic, environmental, and social (life balance) impacts, alongside other studies to assess the benefits or impacts of lowinput systems, including undersown maize and wheat.

The farmers we visited were all either pilot farms for dairy research organisations such as Institut de l’Elevage (the French Livestock Institute), the regional chambers of agriculture or members of Eilyps, the growth and performance organisation which is farmerfunded. It was evident that there is a great deal of practical help available to help farmers become more efficient either by lowering costs in their systems, or becoming more self-sufficient in feeding by growing more feed onfarm for protein or energy, or by improving forage utilisation.

Whilst we do not have such established advisory networks now in the UK, there is still some support available, whether organisation or farmer-led. One such example is the BGS grazing mentors project, which is now open to farmers wishing to get guidance from a fellow farmer to

increase what they get from grazing. We have mentors in Cheshire, Leicestershire, Shropshire, Yorkshire, Wiltshire

and Pembrokeshire so if is of interest please contact BGS at bgsoffice@britishgrassland.com

July 2016 | Farming Monthly | 25

| Energy

Contact your local dealer today: Western Farm Services (Knighton) Ltd Milebrook, Ludlow Road Knighton Powys LD7 1LR T: 01547 520160 www.westernfarmservices.co.uk

Ravenhill Knights Way Battlefield Enterprise Park Shrewsbury SY1 3AB 01743 461000 www.ravenhill.co.uk

Andrew Symons Borners Bridge Nr Pathfields Ind. Estate South Molton, Devon EX36 3LZ 01769 574455 http://www.andrewsymons.co.uk

Ravenhill Beech Business Park Tillington Road Hereford HR4 9QJ 01432 352333 www.ravenhill.co.uk 26 | Farming Monthly | July 2016

Andrew Symons River Tamar Way Dobles Lane Ind. Estate Holsworthy, Devon EX22 6HL 01409 254040 www.andrewsymons.co.uk

R.Hunt Ltd High Street Tilshead Salisbury, Wiltshire SP3 4RX 01980 621114 www.rhunt.co.uk www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Grassland

New tools for optimising grass production This article focuses on the latest research and highlight emerging technologies that are being developed to help farmers optimise the quantity and quality of their grass crops. here is growing pressure on UK farmers to use more home grown forage and reduce the use of more expensive imports, such as soymeal, in order to become more economically and environmentally sustainable. Currently, the average UK grass yield is 7.3 t/ha dry matter (DM). This is considerably lower than the potential yield, which is calculated to be over 20 t/ha DM, for lowland England. It is clear that there is a great opportunity to increase the yield (and quality) of grass crops to reduce the cost of purchasing alternative feedstuffs and improve sustainability.

It is estimated that within the UK, over 3 million hectares of the total land area is predominantly grazed by livestock and approximately 700,000 hectares of grassland is used to produce silage. Managing grassland and forage crops calls for the same level of precision as arable crops. However, very few precision farming technologies have been transferred from arable to grassland and forage crops.

Precision farming technologies have the potential to help farmers increase production efficiencies through several mechanisms: • Regular monitoring of grass yield and quality to optimise grazing performance /silage harvest.

• Yield mapping to identify fields or part-fields that are underperforming and require different management.

• Identify the crop husbandry and management changes required to improve yield and/or quality.

• Enable variable rate application of inputs, such as seed, fertiliser and crop protection products.

This article summarises four current research projects that aim to develop precision farming technologies for grass crops.

Review of tools for measuring grass growth It is recognised that relatively few producers measure and record grass growth or set pasture cover targets for various times of the year. This results in many farmers not

T

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

understanding the maximum potential from their grassland or livestock growth rates. To help farmers better understand grassland potential AHDB Beef & Lamb are funding ADAS UK Ltd to review available tools for measuring and managing grassland as well working with a small group of farmers to develop a blueprint for managing grass for beef cattle.

There are a number of hardware tools available to measure grass growth or pasture cover. Traditionally visual assessment, rising plate meters or electronic probes are used.

These methods are relatively skilled, timeconsuming processes that can quickly become monotonous when done with the frequency required to result in effective management decisions. The frequency of pasture assessment required is farm specific, but during the peak growing season is recommended to be at least every 7-10 days1.

The review is based on current tools used in grazing systems and includes those from the United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, mainland Europe, Australia and New Zealand and covers tools such as the sward stick, GrassOmeter or Automatic Pasture Reader for measuring grass and online or APP based tools for managing the grazing wedge (e.g. FARMAX or farmGRAZE).

Grass Sense - Tractor mounted sensors An Innovate UK project involving Yara, ADAS UK Ltd, Precision Decisions and ForFarmers is investigating how to develop the tractor mounted Yara N sensor to estimate grass biomass and N content from the spectral reflectance of grass crops. The N-Sensor will work across different: • Grass species and varieties; • Clover contents; • Amounts of lodging; • Farm systems (with and without history of manure); • Cutting/grazing strategies; and, • Grass growth class.

Results to-date have been very promising and indicate that the sensor can sense differences in grass biomass and N content in different parts of a field. Ultimately it is

anticipated that the sensor could provide a precise method of calculating the N fertiliser required on a field by field, and metre by metre basis. Precision application of N fertiliser could help optimise N fertiliser inputs and increase grassland productivity.

Satellite technologies Current technologies for measuring grass yield are either labour intensive or not well developed. An Innovate UK funded project aims to develop novel satellite sensing technology that will provide an inexpensive method of remotely sensing grass yield and quality. ADAS UK Ltd and Precision Decisions are developing techniques to exploit optical and radar remote sensing technologies to estimate grass yield and quality. An allied AHDB funded project will investigate the potential for developing existing grass growth models to make use of remote sensing information acquired by satellites.

Review of the Fertiliser Manual (RB209) New tools for measuring grass growth can only be fully exploited if the guidance for targeting crop inputs is up to date. The Fertiliser Manual (RB209) provides best practice information on the application of mineral fertilisers, manures and slurries to arable crops and grassland. AHDB are funding a consortium led by ADAS UK Ltd to provide an independent review of the Fertiliser Manual in order to bring the latest nutrient management research to farmers.

The project involves reviewing crop nutrition research carried out since 2009 with a view to publishing a new “AHDB Nutrient Management Guide (RB209)” by June 2017. The review has assessed recent data on grassland and forage crop productivity and has proposed a new format for grassland nitrogen recommendations for silage and grazing situations, based on N application sequences linked to contrasting levels of grass dry matter yield.

Authors: Pete Berry, Alice Willett & Paul Newell-Price For further information, contact Alice Willett on alice.willett@adas.co.uk or 01954 267666

July 2016 | Farming Monthly | 27

| Muck & Slurry

Vogelsang new Compax2 18m dribble bar World market leaders in dribble bars Vogelsang have now developed to their Compax2 range of dribble bars by adding an 18m version. he Compax2 range is designed around the self-propelled applicators, and as the name suggests, the compact design when in transport folds up completely behind the applicator, minimising the driver’s vision and keeping within the width of the applicator.

Compax2 dribble bars can also be fitted to conventional slurry tankers, and also importantly the umbilical cord market can be fore filled by adapting a pulling arm, which comes as an option by Vogelsang, making the

T

28 | Farming Monthly | July 2016

Compax2 range an all-round option for all users.

Compax2 18m has as standard two of the company’s proven distribution range ExaCut 40 which can handle high demand flow rates, but importantly distributes evenly across the width of the dribble bar, securing even crop growth.

Vogelsang patented CFC section control, is also a standard feature on the 18m Compax2, it acts as an anti-drip system, and also can bring in sections of the dribble bar to suite different tramline widths, as well as utilizing the liquid in short work.

The 18m also features the new in cab control panel which allows the driver full control of the dribble bar.

Compax2 dribble bars can also be fitted to conventional slurry tankers As pictured Compax2 18m can be fitted with Vogelsang base runner, allowing further use in different crops.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Muck & SLurry

Storage tanks not your bag? Slurry bags might be..

Tramspread, the slurry and digestate handling specialists, have been importing the Albers Alligator range of storage systems for 12 years, and as such have unrivalled knowledge and experience of their innovative and cost effective flexible storage systems, Bagtanks or ‘slurrybags’ as they are simply known to most customers. ermanent Albers Alligator Bagtanks can be supplied in any capacity up to 7000m3.

They are installed into an earthwork resembling a shallow lagoon and as standard, include fill/empty pipes with double valves and spillage vessels, Electric or hydraulic submersible mixers, full protective underfelt, and vegetation barrier for the banks. Other pipework and valve options are also available.

For temporary storage, the solution is the NurseBag. This simple, high capacity tank is

When a block of land has been spread, the Reeler reels the NurseBag onto its spool, expelling any remaining liquid as it goes. It can then be transported to the next site with the minimum of downtime. Multiple NurseBags can be served by one Reeler For information on the Albers Alligator range, or any other slurry or digestate handling equipment, call the Tramspread team who will be happy to offer advice based on their many years of experience. Telephone 01449 766133 for more information.

AD & Biogas Show H607 Livestock Event 2016 Stand No: LE538

P

used in conjunction with the NurseBag Reeler, which can be either linkage/fork tine mounted or a slow tow version mounted on a twin axle chassis.

A NurseBag is simply reeled out onto smooth level ground, and using the two standard 6” inlet/outlets can then be filled by tanker whilst liquid is simultaneously pumped out for spreading. The large capacities minimise downtime in the field, with up to 350m3 available to be pumped as opposed to the typical 40 – 60m3 of a conventional steel nurse tank.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

July 2016 | Farming Monthly | 29

| Muck & Slurry

Are you maximising the value of your slurry?

SlurryBugs has the potential to make huge savings on nitrogen fertiliser costs by capturing the nitrogen which would otherwise be lost to the atmosphere. Being in total control of fertiliser costs by maximising the nutrient content of slurry is still a massive area of cost saving that many dairy farmers can still exploit to the full. he two most relevant aspects of slurry analysis are pH and dry matter. The aim is to improve the nutrient value of liquid slurry and to achieve a pH which will encourage aerobic activity,” says Liz Russell, managing director of Envirosystems.

“Treating slurry in the summer is equally important. It is a time when bacterial activity in the store benefits from rising temperatures, even though slurry treatment is often considered to be a winter job.

“Making greater use of a farm’s resources is going to become an ever more essential part of the way farms are run in the future if we want to reduce the rocketing cost of everything that comes in through the farm gate.”

Maximising the value of nutrients within the slurry when they could otherwise be wasted – has been investigated in a four year PhD project at Lancaster University, with full results expected to be released this Summer.

“In treated slurry, the ammonium nitrogen appeared to be used up by the inoculants and was transformed into organic forms of nitrogen,” says Mrs Russell, who says the increased retention of nitrogen could explain the reduction in ammonia emissions (odour)

T

30 | Farming Monthly | July 2016

following treatment.

The research also looks at the potential of inoculated slurry to act as a vector for the changes needed to turn soil organic phosphorus into inorganic phosphorus and facilitate its uptake by plants roots.

Envirosystems offers a slurry analysis and “Slurry Calculator” service for its customers to help them to understand the value of their slurry. The “Slurry Calculator” provides dairy farmers with the opportunity to fully analyse slurry before and after treatment and to show precisely what nutrient resources they already have freely available to make use of.

Being in total control of fertiliser costs by maximising the nutrient content of slurry is still a massive area of cost saving that many dairy farmers can still exploit to the full.

The calculation will provide a farmer with the amount of mineral Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P) and Potassium (K) his slurry contains which means a more careful and considered purchase of bought-in fertiliser can be made.

Lancashire dairy farmer James Rogerson who runs the well-known Avenham Holstein herd has been treating slurry for the last five years and has achieved up to 70% less use of bought-in fertiliser.

This high-yielding herd decided to treat

slurry with the inoculant SlurryBugs to help capitalise on its total manurial value.

He has been able to gradually reduce the amount of fertiliser applied to grassland at Game Farm, Singleton, near Blackpool – a management decision based on the outstanding performance of his pastures following continued applications of treated slurry.

There has been no reduction in grassland performance on the farm even though fertiliser use has been reduced. In fact the opposite has been the case.

Although the decision to move heifers off the farm for rearing has slightly reduced the amount of slurry available, past years have seen the farm reduce fertiliser use by 70 tonnes of N and 20 tonnes of P and K. “These are figures that even I find difficult to get used to but that’s what we’ve actually achieved by treating the slurry and being able to make full use of its true nutrient value,” says Mr Rogerson.

For more information about SlurryBugs Call: 01772 860085 or visit the website www.slurrybugs.co.uk

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Muck & Slurry

New high flow slurry pump Hi-Spec Engineering will be using this year’s Livestock Event to launch the new HS385 high capacity slurry pump. he HS385 slurry pump is a completely new addition to the HiSpec range of paddle and vertical auger diet feeders, slurry tankers and muck spreaders, Kompactor ‘compaction/push-off’ trailers and slurry pumping equipment.

T

The HS385 is fully galvanised as standard Unlike the existing lower capacity, three-point mounted HS450 pump, the new HS385 is a completely new design that is twopoint lower linkage mounted and is hydraulically raised and lowered into the tank.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

The new high capacity HS385 pump is designed to meet the need of contractors and larger livestock farmers. Designed for use with tractors of at least 110hp, the HS385 has an output of around 3800 gallons per minute (17,000 litres/minute), so is ideal for use in larger stores and tanks.

The design of the new HS385

slurry pump is based around a heavy duty support frame and incorporates a safety platform to fully cover the tank when lowered in the working position. The design is such that unlike some two-point pumps, even when raising and lowering the HS385, there is no need to remove the PTO shaft.

The HS385 is fully galvanised as

standard and fitted with a quick change top fill outlet. The spout is quickly and easily adjusted and operated over a wide arc for thorough agitation and mixing.

As an option, the HS385 can also be specified with a hydraulic extension function that allows the working depth to be quickly and easily set from the tractor seat.

July 2016 | Farming Monthly | 31

| Energy

UK solar industry sees new record in electricity generation and launches initiative to raise standards in operations and maintenance New push comes as sector celebrates third Solar Independence Day and sees new peak of 23.9% of electricity demand. he UK solar industry has celebrated its third ‘Solar Independence Day’, the UK’s annual celebration of solar energy. To mark the occasion, which saw people all over the country post photos using the #SolarIndependence hashtag, the Solar Trade Association (STA) has launched its latest initiative to raise standards in the maintenance of big rooftop and ground mount solar systems.

It is estimated that the UK now has almost 12GW of solar PV, across homes, offices, schools, warehouses and on solar farms. This is enough to power the equivalent of 3.8million homes and new analysis by MyGridGB for the Solar Trade Association has shown that solar generation peaked early last month at 23.9% of UK electricity demand – a new record for the UK. According to the latest statistics, there are currently just over 800,000 homes with solar PV and 200,000 with solar thermal, which means that the UK now has just over 1million solar homes.

Raising standards in solar operations & maintenance The Solar Trade Association is keen to raise awareness of the fact that good quality operation and maintenance (O&M) of commercial solar rooftops and solar farms is essential to ensuring their performance, longevity and safe working condition. The body wants to ensure that the sector goes beyond

T

32 | Farming Monthly | July 2016

minimum standards and establishes best practice to raise the bar in this sector, and is today launching its new initiative Raising Standards in Solar PV Operations and Maintenance. This builds on the work that EUlevel body SolarPower Europe has done in its own O&M Best Practice Guidelines.

Mark Turner, Chair of the Solar Trade Association Operations & Maintenance (O&M) Working Group and Managing Director of Lightsource Renewable Energy commented: “With this initiative we want to raise standards and establish best practice across the UK in solar PV operations and maintenance, making sure people are aware that preventative action can avoid costly corrective action later. Solar PV plants have no moving parts but are power plants like any other, and therefore safety has to be our primary concern.”

Solar Independence Day 2016 The day also marked the Solar Trade Association’s annual Solar Independence Day celebration. The trade body is keen to highlight how solar can protect homeowners and businesses from volatile energy prices by reducing bills, can reduce the need for energy imports and, if the technology is given stable support, deliver future independence from subsidy.

Paul Barwell, CEO of the Solar Trade Association commented: “The UK has successfully deployed almost 12GW of solar across the UK, providing nearly

25% during peak generation. This is what the country and the world needs to decarbonise the energy sector at the lowest price to the consumer. The Government’s adoption of the fifth carbon budget is a good long term signal in this regard.”

“Solar Independence Day is about celebrating what a large group of small and medium sized businesses can achieve in a short period of time. We now need just one more push from the Government to help the solar sector reach its objective of zero subsidy by the early 2020s.”

It is estimated that the UK now has almos 12GW of solar PV, across homes, offices, schools, warehouses and on solar farms The UK solar industry is going through a difficult time at the moment, re-adjusting and re-calibrating after the massive changes in the support framework for solar earlier this year.

The STA is working with the Department of Energy and Climate Change and has put forward a number of minor changes that could help stimulate the market.

The Solar Trade Association will shortly be publishing the results of its State of the Solar Industry Survey, which it conducted in conjunction with PwC. Later this year the body will also be setting out its key policy asks to help support solar PV in the near and medium term.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Energy

Experience the benefits of the AgBag system There are significant advantages to be had by utilising AgBag for stored materials. ll oxygen is excluded within 7 minutes when using the AgBag system, which results in high quality feedstock and very low losses of nutrients and energy. In cases where the cost of the forage is high, the low losses in the AgBag contribute to an overall reduction in costs. Bagging before combustion (or bio-drying) actually dries and conserves the nutrients - biomass will burn more efficiently if allowed to dry. Using a patented aeration system, the air in the AgBag is effectively controlled to ensure the quality of the stored material. This also has the added advantage of eliminating odour problems.

The AgBag machine consists of 3 functional components – the feed table; the rotor and the tunnel with bag attachment. The compaction is indirectly created through the continuous input of material through the rotor into the bag, against the machine’s braking system. One person is required to

A

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

operate the machine – a truck or trailer is required for filling the machine. After the bags have been filled, they are immediately sealed and covered with protection nets.

There is no need to cover with plastic film or weighing down with sandbags or tyres, as with a conventional silo.

The quality of biomass stored in AgBags has been found to be very high. The reasons for low level losses during the fermentation process, are due to the rate at which the AgBags are filled and the aggressive mechanical treatment with total sealing of the contents during the storage period.

When managing a biomass digester or biomass boiler, flexibility is of the utmost importance. Prices for substrates influence the decision for the particular raw materials. Being able to take any feedstock that becomes available at an advantageous price is one way to increase profit margins that AgBag users have been able to take advantage of.

New deal announced to use British steel in local wind farms RenewableUK and Scottish Renewables are today welcoming the announcement by Liberty House Group that it has bought a British plant to make wind turbine towers using local steel. he plant’s equipment will be used in a new British manufacturing centre to supply the country’s leading offshore wind market and in the emerging tidal lagoon power industry.

The news is the latest in Liberty House’s ‘Green Steel’ initiative. Recently, it announced it will restart production at two Scottish steel plants, Dalzell and Clydebridge, to make onshore and offshore wind turbine towers.

RenewableUK’s Chief Executive, Hugh McNeal, said:

T

“This is great news and shows how the renewable industry can provide a market for steel produced in Britain. The growth of renewables in the UK is a huge opportunity for British businesses, as high demand for quality steel has increased” Jenny Hogan, Director of Policy at Scottish Renewables, said: “Renewable energy already supports 21,000 Scottish jobs, and it’s good news that a number of those employed at steel-works in Motherwell and Cambuslang could soon be joining the industry’s supply chain.”

July 2016 | Farming Monthly | 33

| Energy

Biomass: Viable solution or just hot air?

Biomass boilers can provide a sustainable heating solution for farmers who are looking to reduce their heating costs and in turn, provides access to the government’s Renewable heat incentive scheme (RHI). e asked the Renewable Energy Association to explain exactly what biomass energy is and how it might be of benefit to farmers and those living in rural locations that are ‘off-gas’.

Q1: Can you explain what biomass heating is and how it could be of benefit to farmers and those in a rural location.

Biomass heating is the use of sources such as wood chips and wood pellets to produce heat from a boiler or stove. There are several forms of biomass which include waste wood, biodiesel, and energy crops.

Farmers and those living in rural settings will have access to a range of such resources and may be better able to utilise these than those in urban settings. In particular, buildings and space for storing such resources are more widespread in these locations, for example sheds for suitably storing woodfuel.

Many in rural locations will also be off the gas grid and as such pay higher costs for their heating from oil sources. Biomass heating can reduce these costs while providing a high heat load , making it one of the most cost-effective forms of low carbon energy.

In addition: Wood heating is one of the lowest cost technologies for delivering the UK’s binding 2020 renewable energy targets of 15% renewable energy Wood heating accounts for over 95% of installations under the Non-domestic RHI, and this sector has grown by more than 40% over the past six months A DECC RHI survey (August 2014) highlighted 90% of non-domestic customers are happy with their installations Q2: What equipment is required and how much would a typical installation cost to install There are various options for each project, ranging from a simple heating stove, to large drying and combustion equipment. For a description of all the forms of technology see our website here:

W

34 | Farming Monthly | July 2016

http://www.woodheatassociation.org.uk/whychoose-biomass-heat/biomass-boilers-woodstoves/ Installation costs specifically for farmers are difficult to estimate as it varies a lot dependant on the sites requirements and the technology or feedstock they choose to install. However the Energy Saving Trust provide some useful estimates for domestic installations: http://www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/renewable -energy/heat/biomass For most projects the basic equipment requirements are a store for the biomass, hopper for feeding this in to the boiler and the actual boiler itself, which vary in size.

Most installations comfortably fit within a farm’s existing operations.

Any potential customer should contact reputable installers and obtain three quotes, for the most up to date cost information – you can find a list of companies to contact on the REA and Renewable Energy Consumer Code (RECC) websites.

Q3: What type of farm would work best for a biomass installation Any type of farm could potentially benefit from a biomass heat installation, all they need is to have the space available for the equipment and stores.

Q4: Any potential benefits/pitfalls – economic, environmental etc.

A biomass heating project can benefit from RHI payments and reduction or total replacement of a farm’s conventional fuel heating costs. Also, it is one of the best ways of reducing a business’s carbon emissions and becoming ‘greener’ as a whole. It is also worth noting that the feedstock is required to meet strict sustainability criteria as set by the government, ensuring both emission reductions and sustainable forestry practices.

The technologies are tried and tested and proven at thousands of sites across Europe and the UK as a relatively mature technology.

Q5: Running a biomass system: Types of fuel, ‘feeding’, maintenance

The most common used form feedstock used in biomass boilers is wood pellets, are generally made from compacted sawdust or other wastes from sawmilling and other wood products manufacture. Pellets are extremely dense and can be produced with a low moisture content (below 10%) that allows them to be burned with a very high combustion efficiency.

Other common forms of biomass feedstocks include Wood Chips, Logs, Miscanthus and Straw. Information on all of this can be found on our website here: http://www.woodheatassociation.org.uk/type s-of-biomass-fuel We would refer you to this guidance in terms of maintenance: http://www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/renewa ble-energy/heat/biomass It is important that any project fully complies with the sustainability standards for their fuel sources.

Q6: Why choose Biomass over other renewable energy sources We would say that all renewable options should be investigated- both heat and power, while one of the main benefits of biomass heat is that such projects can provide a significant amount of heating capacity to farms in a way that is not overly disruptive to ongoing business operations.

Q7: How about RHI/Brexit uncertainty (current EU Renewable Energy Directive ‘RED’) At present nothing has changed as a result of the ‘Brexit’ vote – the RHI is fully funded up until April 2021 and the Energy minister recently reconfirmed no unplanned changes were expected to the funding as a result of the referendum. In addition, many of the business case benefits for biomass heat are not based on Government support, for example improving on-farm environmental performance and reducing running costs, and these factors will remain.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Energy

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

July 2016 | Farming Monthly | 35

| Livestock

National Dairy Event 2017 launched The Livestock Event is reverting to its roots in 2017.

How the West was won – In 1966, the same year as England’s World Cup win, Harry West arry came from humble beginnings - born in Rowtonstall in Lancashire on 2nd April 1925, Harry was the eldest of 4 children. His father Jobe was a traveller who travelled throughout England and Wales selling carpets.

Harry explained that he is lucky to be here, because as a toddler his father was looking after him at night while his mother was away having his brother John.

Unfortunately, Jobe fell asleep with the candle burning and was awakened by his fellow travellers shouting that his caravan was on fire. They both got out in time but Harry still carries a scar from a burn to his arm. Harry was later told of the generosity of the fellow travellers who clubbed together to buy them a new caravan, as everything they had was lost in the fire.

When Harry was 5, his parents settled at Cumberbatch House, Lower Heath with 6 ½ acres of woodland, and with only a short walk to the school, it was ideal.

After leaving school Harry served his country in the Royal Navy for four years, where he took part in the D day landings. As an Able Seaman, he later had two tours to Australia on board the aircraft carrier HMS Formidable until he was eventually demobbed.

On his return from military service he began work at Cattle and Bowl Company, later to become the multinational Rubery Owen. It was there Harry gained valuable experience and good engineering knowledge. This prompted him to realise he could be doing the

H

rganiser, the Royal Association of British Dairy Farmers is returning the event to its traditional time slot with next year’s event scheduled for 6 September at The NEC, accompanied by a name change to the National Dairy Event.

“The event originally rescheduled from September to July in 2013, renamed Livestock Event and widened its remit to cover other livestock enterprises, similar to the very successful Eurotier held in Germany,” RABDF chairman, Mike King told a media briefing in London today, 28 June.

“It was anticipated that farmers would benefit from hearing about developments in other sectors and that the July date would be better for beef and sheep producers rather than just dairy.

“However, annual tracking of producers, visitors and exhibitors clearly indicates that while the changes have gained support over time, a specialist event in September remains the preferred option.

“The move to hold the event over one day rather than the usual two is simply down to cost; the single-day format will allow exhibitors who are reducing marketing costs in line with the fall

O

in demand for farm inputs, to save on hotel, stand, catering and personnel expenses.

“RABDF is acutely aware these changes will position the event in the calendar close to Holstein UK’s UK Dairy Day. RABDF and Holstein UK acknowledge that consolidation in the industry is already affecting both their events, and they have been discussing how to resolve this for the past year. Negotiations are ongoing, however with the 2016 event imminent, RABDF has been placed in the position of having to start discussions about next year’s arrangements with exhibitors.

“RABDF is hopeful that it will reach agreement with Holstein UK over a possible joint future event, however in the meantime, it has no wish to conflict with UK Dairy Day more than necessary, consequently it will not include any cattle showing at the 2017 event.”

He added: “We look forward to delivering an event in 14 months time that will continue to offer dairy farmers support, knowledge and information to help them progress their business’ future.”

36 | Farming Monthly | July 2016

same thing for himself and so became his own boss.

In order to fulfil his ambition, he needed somewhere with enough space to accommodate his engineering activities. With this in mind, he uprooted his family and 2 small children from their much loved, newly built council house in Prees, to a bus he renovated himself on his father’s property at Lower Heath. Harry remembers that his neighbours thought he was crazy to do so at the time.

1966 was a good time to start a new business as there was plenty of work around. Initially Harry specialised in light fabrication work, such as repairs to machinery for the local farming community.

From his modest workshop at Lower Heath, he went on to produce over 18,000 roll bars for a variety of tractors. As the premises grew and the workforce increased, he began to manufacture industrial and agricultural buildings, also taking on contracting work from Fullwood, Bland Milking Systems at Ellesmere, McConnell’s Machinery at Ludlow, GKN at Telford and bottle banks for the local council.

In 1979, the company started to provide its own purpose made agricultural machinery. This started with a Grain and Silage Trailer range, followed by the silver award winning Hi-Feeder.

1981 saw the introduction of the first Dual Spreader which gained the gold medal award and remains the market leading manure spreader to this day. The highly popular Comet Straw Chopper was to follow and in recent years the revolutionary Contra Flow Diet Feeder and large capacity Rear

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Livestock

– Harry West (Prees) Ltd celebrates 50 years (founder and present chairman) began his successful agricultural engineering business.

Discharge Spreader.

At 91 harry still plays an active part of the running of the company, and attends work on his bike every day. He is proud to say he has the support of four generations of his family working

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

at the company, as well as his valued employees, some of whom have been with him for over 30 years.

Harry shows little sign of slowing down. His input and guidance over the years has been

invaluable and he still strives to provide quality machinery and products to British farmers, who have been loyal to the West brand for the last 50 years.

The future of Harry West (Prees) Ltd is safe in the hands of the West

family with new and improved products to take us forward for the next 50 years.

Farming Monthly wishes Harry West all the very best on this momentous achievemnet.

July 2016 | Farming Monthly | 37

| Pigs

Holistic approach improves meat sustainability Sustainability is a real buzz word at the moment and is an especially high priority for the pig industry. ABN looks at what’s already being done, and how as a business, they can ensure that sustainability targets are met. r Steven Jagger, ABN pig nutritionist, recently spoke on the topic of sustainable pig meat production at the British Society of Animal Science (BSAS) conference this year, and stressed the importance of taking a holistic approach to improve sustainability.

‘The development that meets the needs of the present, without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs,’ has been a general definition of sustainability in the past. However, Dr Jagger explains that ‘responsible food production’ is a more realistic interpretation of the meaning of sustainability.

“Now more than ever, customers and shareholders expect companies to act sustainably, especially those involved in the food chain. It’s essential for companies to meet these consumer needs, and therefore we need to know how to do this.”

Dr Jagger spoke at the conference about taking a holistic approach to pig meat production in order to achieve sustainability within the food supply chain. “A holistic approach aims to connect four different goals - product affordability, quality, responsibility and safety - into product development and food production.

We must ensure that we deliver on each of these aspects to achieve a sustainable future.

“Sustainability means

D

affordability. Products must be affordable for the consumer. We are aware British pork producers have to be competitive so we need to consider how we can maximise efficiency to produce a cost effective end product.

“For example, looking at the efficiency of nutrient utilisation and how animals respond can help us to understand how to formulate feeds for high performance at a minimal cost.

“This can be influenced by genotype, general health and growth stage of animals. The more accurately the nutrients are balanced to compliment these factors, the more sustainable the system will be.”

Quality is another factor of sustainability that needs to be considered. “A good eating experience means customers are more likely to want to eat the product again,” says Dr Jagger.

“By looking at dietary components, such as vitamin D, which can affect meat tenderness, we can ensure customers continue to have an enjoyable eating experience which contributes to achieving long-term sustainability of pig production.

Current, on-going research is looking into how pigs can be fed as individuals, with nutrition tailored to each animal for precise feeding that will help increase efficiency and sustainability.

“We may not be far off from precision feeding becoming a reality within the industry, but it will still be vital that all four aspects of

Steve Jagger

the holistic approach to pig meat production are factored in to ensure maximum sustainability

within the supply chain,” says Dr Jagger.

Precision pig farming project under way A £300,000 project to improve the efficiency of UK pig production through precision farming is now under way. consortium of farmers, vets, nutritionists, buildings specialists and technologists is looking at how harvesting ‘real time’ information direct from the piggery will lead to more accurate and relevant decision-making and management changes.

Led by Dr Sadie Douglas, the consortium comprises D C & R J Allen & Partners, ARM Buildings Ltd, Farmex Ltd, Garth Pig Practice Ltd, J M Sankey, D A & E M Skinner, Stockcroft Ltd and Yorkwold Pigpro Ltd. Additional support is provided by subcontractors Primary Diets and Dicam Technology.

“The objective is to

A

commercially pilot the Barn Report Pro system which captures ‘live’ on-farm data enabling cash-saving management decisions to be made rapidly rather than retrospectively,” said Hugh Crabtree, Farmex managing director and one of the primemovers behind the project.

As part of this, farmers are using monitoring systems — including in-pen growth sensors — which will beam data direct to the farm’s computer. This helps identify specific areas where efficiency can be improved such as energy use, reduced water waste, improved feed conversion and intake, and temperature control.

Monitoring will also alert farmers of any failures of, for example, feed

38 | Farming Monthly | July 2016

Dr Sadie Douglas with Aberdeenshire farmer Danny Skinner

or water delivery systems.

Funding is being supported by a 40 per cent grant from the UK’s

innovation agency, Innovate UK (IUK)

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Pigs

It’s not just a grunt: pigs really do have something to say The grunts made by pigs vary depending on the pig’s personality and can convey important information about the welfare of this highly social species, new research has found. cientists specialising in animal behaviour and welfare devised an experiment to investigate the relationship between personality and the rate of grunting in pigs. They also examined the effect different quality living conditions had on these vocalisations.

Findings from the study, carried out by researchers from the University of Lincoln, UK, and Queens University Belfast, are published in the Royal Society journal Open Science (29th June 2016).

S

“The sounds they make convey a wide range of information such as the emotional, motivational and physiological state of the animal” The study involved 72 male and female juvenile pigs. Half were housed in spacious ‘enriched’ pens with straw bedding, while the other half were kept in more compact ‘barren’ pens with partially slatted concrete floors, which adhered to UK welfare requirements.

To get a measure of the pigs’ personalities, the researchers conducted two tests: a social isolation test and a novel object test. Each pig spent three minutes in social isolation, and five

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

minutes in a pen with a large white bucket or an orange traffic cone they had not previously encountered. Their behaviour, including vocalisations, were observed. These tests were repeated two weeks later, allowing the researchers to determine if the pigs’ responses were repeatable – the defining characteristic of personality (also known as ‘coping style’ in animals).

They also recorded the frequency of grunts they made by counting the number of grunts produced per minute of the test, and investigated the effect different quality environments had on the sounds made.

The study indicated that pigs with more proactive personality types produced grunts at a higher rate than the more reactive animals.

The study also found that male pigs (but not females) kept in the lower-quality conditions made fewer grunts compared with those housed in the enriched environment, suggesting greater susceptibility among male pigs to environmental factors.

The results add to evidence that acoustic signalling indicates personality in pigs. This may have had far reaching consequences in shaping the evolution of social behaviours, the researchers believe. The findings also suggest personality needs to be kept in mind when using vocalisation as a measure of the animals’ welfare status.

Principal investigator, Dr Lisa Collins, a specialist in animal health, behaviour and welfare epidemiology in the School of Life Sciences at the University of Lincoln, said: “The domestic pig is a highly social and vocal species which uses acoustic signals in a variety of ways; maintaining contact with other group members while foraging, parent–offspring communication, or to signal if they are distressed.

“The sounds they make convey a wide range of information such as the emotional, motivational and physiological state of the animal. For example, squeals are produced when pigs feel fear, and may be either alerting others to their situation or offering assurance.

Grunts occur in all contexts, but are typical of foraging to let other members of the group know where they are.”

Mary Friel, lead author of the study and PhD student at Queen’s University Belfast, added: “The aim of this research was to investigate what factors affect vocalisations in pigs so that we can better understand what information they convey. Understanding how the vocalisations of pigs’ relate to their personality will also help animal behaviourists and welfare experts have a clearer picture of the impact those personalities have on communication, and thus its role in the evolution of social behaviour and group dynamics in social species.”

July 2016 | Farming Monthly | 39

| Buildings

Building a solid reputation Paul Huxley Construction is an independent and privately owned British company boasting many decades of experience in the steel framed building construction industry. s one of the country's leading suppliers of steel framed buildings for agricultural, industrial and equestrian use, PHC manufacture more than 150 buildings annually.

Proud to be a British manufacturer, they are based at their own premises in Oswestry,

A

North Shropshire, close to the English-Welsh border. All of their materials are from UK suppliers and locally sourced where possible.

The company provide a full spectrum of planning-toinstallation services for both kit and tailormade steel framed buildings, whatever size, location, use and requirement and their

Co me BL AC us a and K I t th se SL e e ES HO W

40 | Farming Monthly | July 2016

team of staff offers high levels of experience, enthusiasm and attention to detail.

A company representative said: “We have gained an enviable reputation for professionalism, customer care, high quality products and affordability – and we enjoy many repeat orders.”

“We are always happy to pick up the phone to discuss your steel framed building requirements.”

There is a 4-6 week turnaround on supply only buildings. Call 01691 610083 or 07852 172071 for more details.

Equestrian If you run an equestrian business the chances are you are looking for a tailormade steel framed building or unit. Every riding school or livery yard is different and the size and shape of the buildings needs thoughtful planning and design.

Having worked with many equestrian business owners, the company are very familiar with the exacting requirements for riding arenas, manège covers, stables, tack rooms, wash rooms, muck stores, horse walkers and more.

“The standards of our equestrian buildings are also fitfor-purpose, with animal welfare at the forefront of all design aspects.”

Agricultural Paul Huxley Construction have worked with many agricultural enterprises, from small scale “lifestyle” farms to large livestock and crop producers.

“We are experts in all the many types of facilities required for storage and housing in a busy and modern farming business. We can advise and guide on the right steel framed building to perfectly to suit your needs. It could be that a standard kit-framed building will “We have gained an enviable reputation for professionalism, customer care, high quality products and affordability – and we enjoy many repeat orders” suffice or perhaps you are looking for something that is designed to suit your exact farming requirements.”

“We plan, design, manufacture, supply and construct off-the-shelf and tailormade buildings for every use that you can think of, including sheds for cattle, sheep, pigs and chickens, milking parlours, lambing units, straw barns, grain stores and dryers, silage clamps, cubicle buildings, lambing sheds, dairy units, workshops and general purpose stores. If you already have a building, we can create a bespoke extension such as a lean-to or side apex and we also offer top-to-toe refurbishment to turn an old style farming unit into an efficient and modern looking building.”

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Buildings

Novel use of Poundfield AlfaBlocs as security walling Poundfield Products of Ipswich in Suffolk, the UK's leading manufacturer of pre-cast concrete retaining wall systems, usually supplies its freestanding Alfabloc product to farms and waste handling companies where they are used to provide a robust and versatile solution for storing either grain or a variety of waste products. owever, regional house builder Mersea Homes of Colchester in Essex decided that four of Poundfield's 2440 mm tall Alfablocs would also provide an ideal alternative to a traditional timber hoarding at the main entrance to its new site in north Colchester where the company is building 1600 homes over the next fifteen years.

Mersea Homes is always keen to secure its sites as best as possible and immediately recognised the many advantages offered by Poundfield's walling

H

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

system. In particular, Alfablocs are extremely durable and difficult to move without the correct handling equipment but, if required, can be easily relocated to meet the needs of changing circumstances. In addition, to facilitate the fitment of a pair of sturdy metal gates, Poundfield fabricated special metal end covers for the Alfablocs situated each side of the site entrance.

Alfablocs are available in a range of six sizes from 1220 mm high by 2000 mm wide up to 6050 mm high by1220 mm wide and is the only interconnecting, freestanding wall system on the market.

July 2016 | Farming Monthly | 41

| Education

Peas prove a success for Bishop Burton team Bishop Burton College has won the 2016 Cereals Challenge having risen to the challenge of growing the most profitable crop of peas. ast year’s winner’s Easton & Otley College claimed second place and Harper Adams University came third.

Teams from Newcastle University, The Royal Agricultural University, Harper Adams University, Bishop Burton College, Risheholme College and Easton & Otley College qualified in a competitive process for the Challenge, and were subsequently each allocated a plot at the Cereals site at Chrishall Grange Farm in Cambridge for which they have had complete responsibility over since February through to the Cereals Event.

The team of three from Bishop Burton College who are studying for a Foundation degree in Agriculture secured their win by an attention to detail across all elements of the competition. The team goes away with a trophy and £1000 prize money to share between the team members plus an additional £500 for the College.

Team captain Rhys Jones along with team members, Harry Torn and Shane Hardgrave, were thrilled with their win. “We didn’t know much about peas as a team initially so we had to source information from reference texts such as the PGRO Agronomy Guide, to gleaning information from the web as well as talking to our lecturers. We then pooled all of this information and agreed the recommendations as a team- and it obviously worked – we are

L

really pleased with how the peas look,” says Rhys.

“It is the first time that peas have been grown in the seven years that the Cereals Challenge has been running, in recognition of the UN declaring 2016 the International Year of Pulses, so we at the PGRO were delighted to be involved and support the Challenge,” says Roger Vickers, CEO of the PGRO Judged by Keith Norman, technical director at Velcourt, Dick Neale, technical manager of Hutchinsons, and Roger Vickers and Steve Belcher from the PGRO, the final results are based on each team’s agronomic recommendations (evaluating their appropriateness and timeliness for each recommendation), input cost management, estimated crop yield and the quality, as well as harvesting advice.

Dick Neale puts down the teams win to an attention to detail across every area of their programme. “The team chose a profitable variety, the marrowfat Sakura from the start, and their herbicide, fungicide, insecticide and nutritional recommendations were well thought through and justified- and getting this right on paper was translated into how well the plot looked,” says Dick Neale.

Keith Norman agrees and says that the team got it right from the start.” The crop established well, the seed rate was kept at its correct rate of 74seeds/m² and the team got the early nutrition right, which on the light soils of Crishall Grange

Bishop Burton College, Winners of the 2016 Cereals Challenge l-r: Harry Torn, Shane Hardgrave, Rhys Jones (team captain)

is crucial.”

Set up as a joint initiative between Hutchinsons and Velcourt to offer an insight into careers in agronomy or farm management, the Challenge has proved a success in its seven year history with 5 students joining Hutchinsons successful Agronomy Foundation Training Programme, whilst Velcourt has employed 6 students as farm managers Jacqueline Tilney, part of this year’s Easton & Otley team, says that the Challenge has really piqued her interest in agronomy as a career. “I’ve had an interest in agronomy but being part of the Challenge has really confirmed this, as I’ve had a chance to see firsthand how decisions on inputs and crop management can have such an impact on the crop - and that’s fascinating.”

Hanna and Salla at the Walford Farm

42 | Farming Monthly | July 2016

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Education

Could you be the next chapter in Hartpury’s success story?

With Hartpury’s stunning 360-hectare estate as your classroom, including our own Home Farm, and 100% of our agriculture students finding work after their studies, we can help you open the door to your dream career; whether that’s getting hands on with agricultural machinery as an engineer, being a gamekeeper or diversifying on your family farm. e offer a range of vocational qualifications, from Diplomas in Agriculture, Landbased Mechanisation, Agricultural Engineering and Countryside Management (Game) to agricultural apprenticeships. And new for September 2017, we’re launching a new Honours degree in Agriculture (subject to validation) with opportunities to study abroad in the USA, New Zealand, Canada or Australia, to gain a wealth of practical and work experience, to benefit from the extensive commercial activities on and off site and to develop

W

groundbreaking research while working in the industry.

Our students have gone on to become farm and estate managers, agronomists, agricultural advisors, sales managers and lecturers, while others have set up really successful businesses. Take Hartpury graduates Tom Mitchell and Aimee Parry for example, who run the Happy Goat Company; breeding and rearing more than 100 goats to produce top quality goat meat, including burgers, sausages and the very popular new goat, apricot and almond tagine. Supplying pubs, restaurants and farmers’ markets but also selling on the internet and

image courtesy Hereford Times

at the farm gates, Tom and Aimee’s business is continuing to grow.

If your dream job is working with animals, in the great outdoors or in the sports industry, Hartpury also offers qualifications in sport, equine, outdoor adventure and uniformed public services at both

College and University Centre level.

There’s still limited availability on some courses for September 2016. Contact admissions@hartpury.ac.uk to discuss the options, or discover your future at www.hartpury.ac.uk

NSC hosts Finnish students in Erasmus Exchange North Shropshire College’s (NSC) Walford Campus has played host to students from Finland for four weeks.

SC has welcomed Hanna, Pinja and Salla from Koulutuskeskus Vocational Education Centre in Finland. The students have worked with the Walford Farm Manager, Richard Aldis and local farmer Roger Tomley in Oswestry.

Also they got to live a day in the life of a agriculture student and learn about the local farming history, as well as having hands on experience.

The visit was organised by the Enterprise and Development Team at NSC, who have been working closely with their equals in Finland to create an enriched and informative visit for the students at the College and in the UK. Bev Parry, event organiser, commented “Hanna, Pinja and Salla all enjoyed their stay in England and

N

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

were able to experience the farming culture of the UK.” In September 2016 14 of NSC’s very own students, including agriculture students and apprentices, will be travelling to Finland to stay with local farmers, with the aim of the trip being to experience farming the Finnish way. This visit is one of many that NSC students have been able to access in recent years, thanks to the Erasmus+ Programme.

European funding is used to support students from different areas of curriculum, to experience cultures and work placements abroad for two weeks.

For more information on the Erasmus+ programme or Enterprise and Development, please visit our website www.nsc.ac.uk or call Bev Parry on 01939 262154.

July 2016 | Farming Monthly | 43

| Machinery

Kubota at Cereals 2016 Kubota’s much anticipated M7001 Series tractors have been arriving at dealerships and on farms across the UK since the turn of the year, and the company’s three newest models were on show, at Cereals 2016. ailed as a key new addition to the 135-175 HP tractor category, the M7001 Series models took centrestage at the arable industry’s leading technical event, which welcomed an estimated 25,000 farmers, agronomists and industry professionals.

Available in three options, Standard, Premium and Premium KVT, the M7001 Series is designed for carrying out a wide range of jobs on both mixed and arable farms and comes with a host of features to maximise performance, reliability and operator comfort and control.

Powered by Kubota’s world-

H

renowned engine technology, the M7001 is fitted with a powerful V6108 engine with full Stage IV compliance, including DPF and SCR technology to clean up emissions, resulting in a cleaner, more environmentally friendly tractor.

The Standard and Premium models feature a powershift transmission whereas the Premium KVT is a CVT. The Premium models in the M7001 Series range feature an interactive touch-screen K-Monitor that manages all functionality intuitively, including headland management, ISO-BUS implement control, GPS-controlled autoguidance and a camera function.

Rob Edwards, Kubota UK’s

44 | Farming Monthly | July 2016

Business Development Manager for Agriculture comments: “Cereals is one of the premier events in agricultural calendar and one that still draws huge numbers of visitors each year. We were delighted this year to speak to an audience of new and prospective customers, some of whom have already put the new machines through their paces as part of

dealer ride and drive days.

“We enjoyed talking to visitors about the new models and the many benefits they offer to existing Kubota customers and to those who have never used Kubota before.”

At Cereals 2016 Kubota also showcased its MGX-II series (100HP to 135HP), its hugely pop

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Machinery

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

July 2016 | Farming Monthly | 45

| Machinery

New 295hp AXION The AXION 800 tractor range has been further expanded with the addition of a new model – the AXION 870 CMATIC which has a maximum power output of 295hp. his follows the introduction of the new 205hp AXION 800 earlier this year, and means that CLAAS is now offers six models in this awardwinning range.

As with other models in the AXION tractor range, the new AXION 870 is powered the tried and tested 6-cylinder FPT engine, which has a 6.7 litre displacement and fulfils the Stage IV (Tier 4) emissions standard.

T

Like the entire AXION 800 model series, the AXION 870 is also equipped with a new front axle as standard However, where it differs is that instead of a fixed power output, for greater flexibility and economy the new AXION 870 uses the CLAAS POWER MANAGEMENT (CPM) system. At speeds above 14 km/h and whenever PTO work is being performed, the system

automatically provides additional torque and an extra 15hp of power through the electronic engine control system.

Like the entire AXION 800 model series, the AXION 870 is also equipped with a new front axle as standard. It is up to 380 kilograms lighter than the previous axle and allows an increase in the permissible gross vehicle weight of up to one tonne.

Overall, the new AXION 870 is 31 hp more powerful compared to the AXION 850 CMATIC, but is the same operational weight. Due to its low unladen weight combined with high power, the AXION 870 is therefore ideally suited for a wide range of cultivation tasks or heavyduty PTO driven operations such as baling, slurry spreading or grass harvesting. This makes the AXION 870 a very attractive alternative to the next model up in the AXION 900 model series, especially for use between multiple farms and for large farm operations.

Drive to the axles is through a continuously variable CMATIC transmission. All the main

46 | Farming Monthly | July 2016

important functions of both the tractor and the equipment can be conveniently controlled using a combination of function keys in the armrest or with the CMOTION multifunction lever and via the CEBIS terminal.

Standard specification includes up to seven electronic spool valves and thanks to the CSM (CLAAS Sequence Management)

system, the operator is able to setup and control a wide range of headland and implement management sequences.

The AXION 870 is fully ready exfactory to use the complete range of CLAAS GPS steering and automated headland turning systems, controlled using either the S10 or S7 terminal.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Tyres

Featured Dealers: Farmstar Limited Marr, Doncaster DN5 7AU T: 01302 786786

Market Weighton,York YO43 3GA T: 01430 875900 Brigg, North Lincs DN2 8NF T: 01652 654944 www.farmstar.co.uk

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

Robert D Webster Ltd Owstwick, Hull HU12 0LH T: 01964 670251

Goole, N. Humberside DN14 7DZ T: 01430 430624 Driffield, E. Yorkshire YO25 4RF T: 01262 420226 www.robertdwebster.co.uk

Sharnford Tractors Ltd Lutterworth, Leicestershire LE17 5EH T: 01455 209300 www.manitou.co.uk

July 2016 | Farming Monthly | 47

| Groundcare

SALTEX gets bigger Organisers of SALTEX 2016, which is being held on 2 and 3 November at the NEC, Birmingham, have revealed that the show is expanding to accommodate an increasing number of exhibitors. The extra floor space marks a show growth of 1,120sq/m as exhibitors continue to sign up for the event. In fact, 81% of allocated space at SALTEX 2016, which includes the extra floor space, has already been accounted for. he extra space will not only allow for more exhibitors to showcase an even wider range of products and services, but also provides an extra seminar theatre to accommodate an enhanced free-to-attend LEARNING LIVE programme plus Young Groundsmen’s Conference sessions, sponsored by Rigby Taylor and Top Green, which will now be held on the show floor.

Last year’s conference, organised and hosted by the Institute of Groundsmanship’s (IOG) Young Board of Directors, which saw many of the industry’s leading experts taking part, was held in a separate room just outside of the exhibition halls. However, post-show feedback revealed that visitors would prefer this to be integrated into the show area.

Organisers have listened and acted upon this feedback by enabling its

T

new location.

Students and aspiring groundsmen interested in a career in turf management will be able to network with leading companies, view the latest technology and learn more about pathways into the industry by attending informative Young Groundsmen’s Conference sessions – within one easy-toaccess location.

The relocation of this conference is just one of a number of revisions which are being implemented by the IOG to ensure that the show maintains a fresh feel. Last year’s education programme, LEARNING LIVE, saw 1,655 minutes of free seminars, and post-show visitor feedback revealed it to be extremely popular. This year, show organisers are planning an even more exiting programme with a greater depth of content and quality.

Commenting on the updated programme, IOG CEO Geoff Webb

48 | Farming Monthly | July 2016

said: “Last year’s LEARNING LIVE programme was hailed as a great success – we had a huge range of subjects and there was something for everyone. Preparation for the 2016 LEARNING LIVE programme is already well underway and will address the issues that surround our industry.

For example we will be looking at the EU Debate – whether we are out or in, the 2016 European Championships in France and the Olympics in Brazil.

“We have now commissioned a fourth lecture theatre to expand the number of presentations across the two days. Pencilled in already are expert speakers from the UK and abroad. The Young IOG are also joining the LEARNING LIVE programme with some dedicated sessions in purpose-built seminar rooms with better sound systems and screens – a direct improvement from 2015 – based on speaker and visitor feedback.

“All in all we are looking at a growing event which we look forward to welcoming you to in November.”

Since SALTEX was first held in 1938, the event has brought the industry together to network, learn and view the latest innovations.

While remaining true to these core principles of SALTEX’s heritage, it is apparent that the show is moving with the times and now reflects a unique and modern 21st century trade show.

Last year’s audited visitor figures confirmed 8,714 visitors spanning 45 different nations and the exhibition’s role as the industry’s principal showcase was evident.

SALTEX 2016’s improved show features and unrivalled industry support are set to work together to create the freshest and most exciting turf management event to date when the doors open later this year.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| ATV

Briants of Risborough Ltd Princes Risborough, Bucks T: 01844 343663 www.briantsltd.co.uk

World of Power Buxton, Derbyshire T: 01298 213101 www.worldofpower.co.uk

Lakedale Power Tools Croydon, Dartford & London T: 020 8683 0550 www.lakedalepowertools.co.uk

Spaldings Limited Lincoln, Lincolnshire T: 01522 507500 www.spaldings.co.uk

Charles H Hill Ltd Woodhall Spa, Lincolnshire T: 01526 388281 www.charleshhill.co.uk

Express Mowers Ltd Stourbridge, West Midlands T: 01384 443499 www.expressmowers.net

DM Chainsaws Arundel, West Sussex T: 01243 554065 www.dmchainsaws.co.uk

Ermin Plant (Hire & Services) Ltd Gloucester, Gloucestershire T: 01452 526616 www.erminplant.co.uk

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

July 2016 | Farming Monthly | 49

| Tyres

Big savings, minimal wear: I am a fan of Alliance for over 10 yrs The story of Mr. Jean Marc Chauviré and his first-hand experience with Alliance tires / A372 IF / A380 / A390. ometimes the most durable relationships start uphill. Uphill and literally on the hill in the case of the long lasting partnership between ATG and Jean Marc Chauviré, agricultural work contractor from Malguénac, a small village nestled in the hills of Brittany (France).

Monsier Chauviré runs his company of 12 employees together with his wife Chantal and is a local opinion leader as member of Entreprenues des territories des Bretagne. And, more than anything else, he is a professional greedy for the latest technologies available on the market.

“It’s now more than 10 years that we provide Mr. Chauvire’ with innovative technical solutions” explains ATG Field Engineer Nicolas Boileau, “and we are especially proud of this long term collaboration because it actually started in a less desirable way: he called us to complaint”.

A definitively well solved problem if after a decade Jean Marc Chauvire’ is still the one who wants to know first what is going on in ATG’s world.

“I like to be updated, I love being aware about the latest news from the market” adds Mr. Chauviré, “I am completely aware about the challenges I have to face on daily basis while doing my work, and I am equally aware that ATG people are always there to help me in finding the best solution. It is a matter of sharing knowledge: they genuinely listen to me and I trust them”.

Chauviré’s machines work both on field and road, therefore he is always looking for tires that can perform efficiently everywhere, no matter what kind of ground they are riding on.

“Reducing tires cost is key because of the high usage they are subjected” reports Nicolas Boileau, “We offered him high performances Alliance tires, with outstanding behavior in any condition and able to guarantee an excellent value for money”.

A372 IF tires (Agriflex 600/70R30, 710/70R42) are Mr. Chauviré’s latest purchase from ATG range: he mounted them on his

S

50 | Farming Monthly | July 2016

Fendt tractor two weeks ago and, after 200 hours’ work, he gives his thumbs up.

Perfect for all kind of applications, the tires pressure can be reduced by 20% while carrying the same load as the previous standard tire.

“A372 IF tires provide an excellent level of comfort combined with smoother ride with less vibration and low road noise” points out Nicolas Boileau, “They significantly help in reducing driver fatigue and in addition mechanical stress”.

Mr. Chauviré confirms “This is the very first time I am using them: I bought A372s because I wanted to have my own opinion about this kind of Alliance technology for tractors and so far I am 100% satisfied with them”. And he adds: “I am particularly happy with the wear characteristics after 200 hours, which is showing to be minimal”. So happy with the A372 that he is already planning to add more power to improve his tractor and to push the machine even more to ensure extra torque.

“Thanks to these new tires I will save time and fuel, maintaining the high quality of the work”, he concludes.

“I truly believe A372 IF is a really multipurpose tire that can ensure users high tech solutions for any issue they might face in their daily job. The market is very demanding when it comes to performing well on the field without damaging the soil” explains Nicolas Boileau, “By using these tires you can significantly reduce compaction and improve the overall efficiency of your operation”.

A380 is one of the most popular tires in the Alliance flotation range: no matter the weather, no matter the ground, they continue to perform.

“I have been using these tires for 10 years, actually they were the very first Alliance product I bought, and I keep on being a big fan of them” Mr. Chauviré confesses. “What I appreciate most is their outstanding selfcleaning abilities, definitively a big plus when towing the trailer. Thanks to the A380 design the tire will keep rolling under all conditions with minimum rolling resistance, allowing you to easily pull the trailer without using any extra power. A key factor also is the unlikely hood of unpleasant fines due to bringing mud on to the road”.

Mr. Chauviré is also using A390. Designed for road transport, it presents a non-directional pattern, as well as the A380. “This tire is really cost-efficient, its flat profile block pattern has low rolling resistance combined with a strong yet flexible casing that provides an even footprint reducing significant wear. during intense road activities.

The private collection of Alliance tires is not complete yet. He has just bought some brand new spreaders fitted with Alliance 650/75R32 and A360 as original equipment.

“There is a specific reason why I have been choosing ATG for the last 10 years: because of the high quality of their products – of course – but also because of the amazing collaboration I have with their team here in France” concludes Mr. Chauviré “They have always been there for me: anytime I need suggestions about a tire or advices about how to get the best from its technology, or even just a chat while taking together the pressure of a tire, they are always ready to come here and help me. This attitude makes the difference, for real”.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| ATV

www.stalhameng.co.uk

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

July 2016 | Farming Monthly | 51

| ATV

John Deere expands Gator Range for 2016 John Deere has added three new models to its ever growing Gator crossover 4x4 utility vehicle range for 2016, including a more affordable mid-size machine. he Gator XUV 590i and 590i S4 four-passenger utility vehicles are designed for customers seeking a combination of performance and comfort, with a range of customisation and attachment options. Equipped with a powerful twin-cylinder 32hp, 586cc petrol engine and independent four-wheel suspension, the XUV 590i can accelerate quickly to a top speed of over 45mph.

Both models are equipped as standard with power steering and an 875W/65A alternator to run auxiliary attachments such as lights, winches and sprayers without the risk of discharging the battery.

T

Features on this machine include an ergonomic operator station, a quiet 16hp, 570cc V-twin petrol engine providing swift acceleration to a top speed of 28mph, independent four-wheel suspension and multiple attachment options Ground clearance is a minimum of 267mm (10.5in) on the 590i, which has a load capacity of 363kg and a towing capacity of 499kg. The S4 version has a ground clearance of 236mm (9.3in), a load capacity of 544kg with the rear passenger seat folded down, and is also capable of towing up to 499kg.

52 | Farming Monthly | July 2016

Drivers and passengers alike will appreciate the low noise and vibration levels of these new Gators, which are achieved by isolating the powertrain and utilising sounddampening material around the engine and continuously variable transmission (CVT) intakes.

Other features on these two models include class-leading ergonomics and legroom, a large 28litre fuel tank and a backlit instrument cluster that provides vehicle information such as speed, engine rpm, fuel level, coolant temperature and warning lights that include power steering plus seat belt and maintenance reminders.

In addition to the two XUV 590i Gators, the new mid-size XUV 560 is aimed at those looking for a more affordable 4x4 utility vehicle but with the same levels of comfort and versatility expected of John Deere’s popular Gator range. Like the XUV 590i two-person Gator, this model also has a minimum ground clearance of 267mm (10.5in), plus load and towing capacities of 363 and 499kg respectively.

Features on this machine include an ergonomic operator station, a quiet 16hp, 570cc V-twin petrol engine providing swift

acceleration to a top speed of 28mph, independent fourwheel suspension and multiple attachment options. The carburettor is tuned for rapid throttle response, reliable cold-weather starting, smooth midrange power delivery and quiet idling.

The XUV 560’s roll-over protective structure provides easy entry and exit, three-point seat belts and side grab handles to ensure the operator and passenger are safe and well protected.

This model also offers sealed underhood storage and features a large, one-piece cargo box made of a composite material that eliminates rust and dents and reduces noise.

The truck-like tailgate can be opened with one hand, or removed for easier cleaning of the cargo area and to carry longer items.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| ATV

Take a closer look at the

Kawasaki Brute Force range

Made up of four models, the Kawasaki ATV range offers a variety of products to suit the diverse needs of riders, whether using the machines for work or pleasure – both… he entry level Brute Force 300 is priced at £4029 and has many of the features you’d expect from a much larger – and expensive – ATV. With CVT transmission, disc brakes on the front and rear, plus a water-cooled 271cm³ engine.

Equipped with robust carriers on the front and rear, the Brute Force 300 can carry 20kg on the front and 30kg on the rear – little touches like the built-in tie down hooks come in handy to secure loads – a front storage compartment can stow four 500ml bottles. Quality all-digital instrumentation is easy to read with all the key information included. Available in Super Black and Bright White.

Next up is the Brute Force 650 4x4i. Powered by a water-cooled V-twin engine tuned for muscular torque and effortless pulling power.

Priced at £6589 and available in Super Black, the 650 has selectable 2WD and 4WD, manual reverse override, automotive style

T

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

instrumentation and useful front 120w and rear 60w accessory power sockets with water resistant covers. A high mudguard and wet brake ensure internal components aren’t effected when off-road and limited slip differential and all-round Independent suspension mean you can make the most of the 650 engine on uneven and loose ground.

Designed for high performance off-road performance, the Brute Force 750 4x4i EPS boasts industry leading features – including speed variable Electronic Power Steering (EPS), increase in the torque and all-day working performance of the 750cm³ V-twin engine and great chassis control. Priced at £7629, the 750 is the biggest of the Kawasaki ATV bunch.

Double wishbone front suspension ensured generous wheel travel and minimal body roll, power headlights mean vital hours are added onto your day due to increased vision in low light conditions and digital instruments mean all the important information can be seen clearly

and at a glance – including fuel gauge, speed, temperature gauge and warning indicators.

Colour options include Super Black, Bright White and brand new for 2016, Camo.

For more information on the full Kawasaki ATV and MULE range or to find your local authorised dealer, visit: www.kawasaki.co.uk All new or used Kawasaki ATV and MULE machines, from an authorized UK dealer come with 2 year warranty and are eligible for free or highly subsidised EASI® operator training*.

The European All-Terrain Vehicle Safety Institute (EASI®) is a not for profit organization which provides safety training courses for ATV and SbS operators. Sponsored by the leading five manufacturers, the UK operation delivers a programme of specialist ATV and SbS operator training courses designed to improve operator skills, safety levels and awareness of the capabilities of ATVs. *subject to qualifying terms, conditions and availability.

July 2016 | Farming Monthly | 53

| ATV

Polaris

..customise your Polaris Ranger

It’s good to know the Polaris engineered parts and accessories available for your Polaris Ranger are developed by the same people who design the vehicles. Polaris emphasise this with: “nobody knows these machines better than us.”

ver the past year Polaris has been enhancing existing products and creating new accessories from storage to shooting and cabs to comfort, creating an exceptionally wide range of accessories to enhance and customise the Ranger.

“Right from the start the accessories are designed, rigorously tested and meticulously fine tuned alongside this most popular side by side, making sure they are completely in sync with one-another to elevate your offroad experience,” say Polaris. Take the Lock and Ride Pro-Fit cabs which fit quickly and simply, giving you the options of with or without

O

doors and tip-out windscreens.

Dedicated mounting points are engineered directly into the vehicle, eliminating the cab framework and providing a much larger field of vision. Everything installs in minutes without using any special tools and how you customise your cab is entirely up to you.

Lock and Ride has certainly revolutionised off-road vehicle customisation, offering everything from cargo boxes, the Polaris Northstar Cooler (which is certified ‘bear proof’), Tool Rack and Chainsaw Mount right through to Gun Mount Boots and in cab Gun Mount, for shooting and gamekeeping. Polaris’ partnership with Kolpin also offers the Kolpin Gun Boot and ratcheting Rhino

54 | Farming Monthly | July 2016

Grips.

When you have need of a winch with performance you won’t do better than the 4,500lb winch engineered and built by Warn exclusively for Polaris with full sealing for maximum water resistance and a patented roller disc brake for assured holding power. That’s more than enough to pull you or others out of sticky offroad situations.

You can protect your Ranger with brushguards in durable matt black finish and rugged styling, with integrated mounting holes for easy installation of lights. These offer reliable protection for the grille, lights and bodywork in tough off-road situations. Nerf Bars provide additional protection to the side of the vehicle, with an

integrated boot scraper to help keep the interior clean. Lightbars and Cannon lights will enhance your off-road experience even more, while elevating the vehicle’s sporty, high-performance style.

The Polaris Ranger accessories cover just about everything you need for work and leisure enjoyment from a gated shifter right on to pandering to your creature comforts with a heater, heated seats and even a heated steering wheel. What more could you ask for? No doubt the people at Polaris are thinking about that as well.

For full details visit your local authorised Polaris dealer. www.polaris-britain.com Tel: 0800 915 6720.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| ATV

Light footed weed control with

Honda ATV Rain showers and warm weather have combined to produce ideal growing conditions for weeds but a Honda ATV can save the backache associated with using traditional knapsack sprayers for control. onda ATV’s ability to operate safely on undulating ground while minimising damage with its low ground pressure tyres has meant that weed control duties have become a popular application. The ability to carry larger tanks on the load racks means ATV sprayers can work for longer between refills, while electric pumps dispense with manual pumping, but the ATV’s compact size means compact working areas can still be accessed.

Capacities tend to be from approximately 25-135 litres and the type of use dictates the level of complexity required. For spot spraying by hand lance, a low output on-demand pump, driven from the ATV’s battery is adequate.

Most purpose-designed sprayers include a length of hose allowing the operator to park the ATV and sprayer close to the area to be treated and then walk around with the lance, targeting the weeds.

For larger areas such as paddocks or problem weed populations in arable crops, booms are usually preferred.

Typical sizes are from 3 to 7

H

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

nozzles, providing spray widths from 1.5-3.5m. Spray pressure regulation is essential, allowing various nozzle sizes to be used

and the flow rate to be adjusted to match the working speed.

For higher application rates and wider booms, sometimes up to 12m, much higher pump capacity is provided by petrol engine powered pumps, but trailed units are generally favoured allowing larger tanks to be used.

The Honda range of ATVs provides superb carrying and towing performance and the weight limits are clearly displayed on the load racks and tow hitches.

For paddock or farm headland spraying with a small, mounted sprayer a 2wd model will usually be adequate on level ground but, for steeper slopes and softer ground conditions, 4wd will be an advantage. Larger trailed sprayers will almost certainly mean one of the larger Honda Foreman models will be needed.

Because Honda’s range of

utility ATVs is designed for work applications, all models from the TRX420 Fourtrax up come as standard with high capacity alternators and external 12-volt power capable of powering most electric sprayer pumps.

For advice as to which of Honda’s wide range of ATVs will best suit your needs it will be well worth consulting your local main dealer, who will also be pleased to recommend a suitable sprayer.

Many also supply protective clothing and accessories, and can provide details of organisations which provide training in the safe use of pesticides, so it will be well worth getting in touch. Whatever your situation, the dealer will have a cost-effective solution to speed up your spraying and save your back.

July 2016 | Farming Monthly | 55

| Motors

Pricing & specs for new FIAT Fullback announced FIAT Professional has announced pricing and specification details of the new Fullback pickup truck ahead of its UK launch on July 4. ngineered to meet the broad needs of business users – both professional and recreational the new FIAT Professional Fullback offers the kind of flexibility and dependability its name suggests: A fundamental playing position in rugby or American football; the fullback which requires an intelligent and adaptable player capable of dealing with any situation.

With the new Fullback, FIAT Professional enters the buoyant medium-duty pick up segment which accounts for 650,000 vehicles a year in the EMEA region (Europe, Middle East and Africa) representing 22% of the total LCV market. In the UK more than 40,000 pickups were registered in 2015 – a jump of 20% compared to 2014 – so it is clear that there is a growing audience, both internationally and in the UK, who see the rugged and practical pickup truck as an ideal solution to their broad spectrum of vehicle needs.

In terms of styling, the front of the FIAT Professional Fullback adopts the upmarket appearance of a sports SUV with its swept-back fascia, chunky front bumper and roomy cabforward layout. Distinctive swage lines along the flanks tie the front of the pickup truck to the rear and, along with the sweeping shape of the front and rear lamps, help fully integrate the load bed as part of the vehicle’s overall design.

Detailing is tasteful and restrained with two strips of satin silver trim used to frame the front grille on the entry-level SX, while LX versions also have a subtle satin silver trim around sump protector, as well as chrome-finished door mirrors, door handles and side steps. Attractive 16-inch alloy wheels are standard on the SX while the profile of the LX model is enhanced with 17-inch alloy wheels and substantial, bodycoloured wheel arch protectors.

E

56 | Farming Monthly | July 2016

The interior combines the functionality of a work vehicle with the comfort and elegance of luxury vehicle with an attractive and ergonomically designed, two-tone black-andsilver dashboard, supportive and comfortable seats and impressive rear passenger room.

Standard equipment on the SX version includes remote central locking, electric windows and mirrors, Bluetooth connectivity (phone calling and music streaming), DAB digital radio, a leather-trimmed steering wheel and gearknob, steering-wheel mounted remote audio controls, air conditioning (including rear vents), Start & Stop, front fog lamps, a tubular side step and a host of safety features including seven airbags, advanced ESC with ASR, TSA (Trailer Stability Assist), LED DRLs, hill start assist and cruise control with a speed limiter. Lane Departure Warning and a reversing camera are both standard on the LX version.

The FIAT Professional Fullback SX is powered by an aluminium-block, 2.4-litre diesel engine with a variable-geometry turbo charger which produces 150hp and 380Nm of torque yet its official combined-cycle fuel economy figure is just 44.2MPG (6.4L/100km) and its CO2 emissions are 169g/km. The standard SX transmission comprises a six-speed manual gearbox with on demand four-wheel drive system with three electrically-selected settings: 2H, 4H and 4L. The power and torque outputs of LX version are increased to 180hp and 430Nm, while the full-time four-wheel drive system has four electrically-controlled settings: 2H, 4H plus 4HLc and 4LLc with a locking central differential for improved traction. Its official combinedcycle fuel economy figure is 42.2MPG (6.6L/100km) and its CO2 emission figure is 173g/km.

Technical highlights across all FIAT

Professional Fullback models include a onetonne payload with a bed length of up to 1.52m, 3,100kg un-braked towing capacity (2,700kg for the SX model), best-in-class turning circle. Sophisticated double wishbone front suspension and a solid axle with leaf springs for maximum reliability and sturdiness.

Standard equipment on the LX includes keyless go, leather upholstery, electricallyadjusted and heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, bi-xenon headlamps with washers, enhanced body styling, privacy glass and a 6.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with DAB, Bluetooth connectivity and satellite navigation as standard. Lane Departure Warning, a reversing camera and a comfortoriented “Touring” suspension are also included in the generous LX specification.

When equipped with a five-speed automatic transmission, the LX version adds an upgraded 7-inch infotainment system and transmission paddle gear shifters.

Available as a double cab only and with allwheel drive standard on all versions, the FIAT Professional Fullback starts at £20,995 (excluding VAT, VED, delivery and plates) for the SX version. The high-specification LX manual is priced from £22,995 (excluding VAT and OTR charges) while the LX automatic is priced from £24,395 (excluding VAT and OTR charges). The new FIAT Fullback will be available to order from FIAT Professional dealers from 4 July.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Motors

Renault introduces its first global one-tonne pick-up: Alaskan Renault takes the wraps off Alaskan, a one-tonne pick-up that takes a completely fresh approach to the pick-up segment, including a stunning look that incorporates an imposing front-end. oth robust and comfortable, Alaskan delivers exceptional driving comfort enhanced with a cutting edge five-link rear suspension and a tough, fully boxed frame.

Alaskan is a powerful, ingeniously designed vehicle that combines outstanding off-road ability and best-in-class fuel economy with the Renault 2.3-litre dCi engine under the bonnet.

In addition to meeting the needs of professional customers, it is the perfect companion for leisure use and everyday motoring.

Moreover, thanks to its Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) expertise, Renault provides a wide range of services, conversions and accessories to fulfil the broad diversity of customers’ needs.

Following the launch in Latin America last year of the Duster Oroch, a segment-breaking half-tonne pick-up, Renault has global ambitions for Alaskan in the pick-up market.

This market accounts for five million units worldwide annually: more than one-third of the world’s LCV sales.

B

Building on its position as Europe’s number one LCV brand for 18 years, as well as on its strong footings in South-America and Africa, Groupe Renault is shifting up a gear with Alaskan which will be manufactured in three industrial sites.

Alaskan launches in the strong pick-up markets of Latin America where Renault is a long-time player. It will initially go on sale in Colombia.

More news about a possible UK launch soon.

MTC Subaru

Perkins

Cambridgeshire 01733 822 943 www.mtc-subaru.co.uk

Essex 01371 483 379 www.perkins-subaru.co.uk

Cambridge Subaru

Pinkstones Subaru

Maple Garage Ltd

Cambridgeshire Tel. 01223 841 616 www.cambridge-subaru.co.uk

Staffordshire 01782 484 959 www.pinkstones-subaru.co.uk

East Riding of Yorkshire 01964 782 295 www.maplegarage-subaru.co.uk

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

July 2016 | Farming Monthly | 57

| Motors

MTC Great Wall Cambridgeshire Tel: 01733 309782

Great Wall Bath Somerset Tel: 01225 473014

Garland Great Wall Hampshire Tel: 01252 367373

Winchester Motor Co. Hampshire Tel: 01962 866331

www.mtcars.co.uk

www.bathhonda.co.uk

www.winchestermotorgroup.co.uk

www.winchestermotorgroup.co.uk

58 | Farming Monthly | July 2016

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Motors

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

July 2016 | Farming Monthly | 59

60 | Farming Monthly | July 2016

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

Guy Salmon Knutsford

Kentdale Kendal

01565 632525, www.guysalmon.knutsford.landrover.co.uk

01539 814444, www.kentdale.kendal.landrover.co.uk

Barretts Ashford

Duckworth Land Rover, Boston

01233 506070, www.barretts.ashford.landrover.co.uk

01205 449758, www.duckworthlandrover.co.uk

Barretts Canterbury

Duckworth Land Rover, Market Rasen

01227 475475, www.barretts.canterbury.landrover.co.uk

01673 799393, www.duckworthlandrover.co.uk

Rybrook Huddersfield Land Rover

Conwy Land Rover

01484 516016, www.rybrook.huddersfield.landrover.co.uk

01492 580000, www.conwy.landrover.co.uk

Rybrook Copley Land Rover

Stafford Land Rover

01422 363340, www.rybrook.halifax.landrover.co.uk

01785 214140, www.stafford.landrover.co.uk

Hunters Norwich

Matford Land Rover

01603 944836, www.hunters.norwich.landrover.co.uk

01392 825825 www.matford.exeter.landrover.co.uk

Lloyds Kelso

Cambrian Aberystwyth

01573 224345, www.lloyd.kelso.landrover.co.uk

01970 624841, www.cambrian.aberystwyth.landrover.co.uk

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

July 2016 | Farming Monthly | 61

| Motors

New Volkswagen Tiguan is cool, calm and connected The need to integrate today’s consumer technologies such as smartphones seamlessly into our homes, offices and cars is becoming essential for many. Recognising this trend, when designing the new Tiguan, Volkswagen engineers have ensured the car is packed with state-of-the-art features that support connectivity and functionality more easily than ever. he new Tiguan’s cool, calm, connected nature enables its driver and passengers to stay in touch while on the move. Whether it’s getting the latest traffic information, streaming some music or dictating a text hands-free the latest Volkswagen SUV is equipped for the task.

All new Tiguans offer, as a minimum, Volkswagen’s impressive Composition Media system. This includes an eightinch colour touch-screen, DAB digital radio receiver, CD player, USB connection and the simultaneous pairing, via Bluetooth, of two compatible mobile phone devices.¹ Once a smartphone is paired with the Tiguan the driver or passenger can make and receive phone calls via the car’s built-in microphone and infotainment speakers. When the car is stationary the driver or passenger can even read and reply to SMS text messages using the touchscreen display, if they have an Android smartphone.

Internet on the move Of course mobile phones now do so much more than merely text or call contacts. This is where Volkswagen’s Car-Net comes in.

Car-Net refers to in-car internet connectivity and it brings the best functions of a smartphone – entertainment and convenience –

T

into the Tiguan, simply and securely.

A range of services are available, and for access to the full functionality all the driver needs to do is set up an account at volkswagen-car-net.com and download the Car-Net app to their smartphone.

Car-Net kicks off with the AppConnect system. Available on entry-level S trim, and standard on all other trims, App-Connect allows the display screen of a smartphone to be ‘mirrored’ on the Tiguan’s Composition Media touch-screen by connecting the phone via a USB cable.² This is compatible with smartphones that run Apple, Google and Android operating systems, meaning the function is available to almost every smartphone user.

Crucially, the Tiguan also allows the use of certified apps on its infotainment touch-screen. And if the app supports voice control then that will work in the Tiguan too! With safety in mind, only certain apps can be used while the Tiguan’s wheels are in motion.

One such app is MirrorLink’s Cam Connect. This allows the infotainment display to be connected to a GoPro camera, which can be mounted in the vehicle or in a trailer that’s being towed by the Tiguan. This is useful if you have a dog in the rear of the vehicle, or if you’re towing a horse box and you want to check on your animal without having to

62 | Farming Monthly | July 2016

pull over.

Tiguan’s active information The most comprehensive mobile connectivity available in new Tiguan is Car-Net ‘Guide and Inform Plus’. Optional on S, SE Navigation, SEL and R-Line trims, ‘Guide and Inform Plus’ adds voice activation technology to the already thorough ‘Guide and Inform’ offering. It brings Google Earth™ into the car, while Google Street View™ can also be displayed on the colour touchscreen.

A crucial feature of Car-Net is the way in which the Car-Net app acts as an e-Remote for the new Tiguan. Before the driver gets into the car, he or she can use the CarNet e-Remote to pre-set the air conditioning so the cabin is at their preferred temperature. The eRemote also displays the vehicle’s mileage, last parking position and will even inform the driver if the headlights are on or not.

The connectivity of the new Tiguan makes it one of the most advanced cars in its class, but it’s far from a ‘one trick’ SUV. Another

technological highlight is the Active Info Display: a 12.3-inch high resolution TFT display screen located in the instrument binnacle. It offers a digital speedo and tachometer, and the display can be customised to show almost any of the car’s other parameters.

Particularly useful is the widescreen navigation display, which replicates the information on the TFT display in the centre console.

Active Info Display is available on trims from SE and up, and is standard on the SEL and R-Line models.

Another key feature is the Headup Display that projects driving information, including current speed and the speed limit, onto a retractable screen within the driver’s field of vision. This fighter jet-inspired technology is an option on Tiguans from SE and above.

Brimming with technology, the new Volkswagen Tiguan is on sale now. For full details, together with brochures and pricing and to use Volkswagen’s online configurator, please visit www.volkswagen.co.uk

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Motors

ARCHIE MOSS Leicestershire 01530 553 785 www.archiemoss-isuzu.co.uk

GARLAND MOTORS Hampshire 01252 884 026 www.garland-isuzu.co.uk

HOLDCROFT ISUZU Staffordshire 01782 484 954 www.holdcroft-isuzu.co.uk

BOB GERARD LTD Leicestershire 01162 149 052 www.bobgerard-isuzu.co.uk

JEFFRIES OF BACTON Suffolk 01449 424 758 www.jeffriesofbacton-isuzu.co.uk

CORDWALLIS GROUP Oxford Tel. 01628 622264 www.cordwallis.com

BURRELLS MOTOR GROUP South Yorkshire 01302 515 763 www.burrellsmotorgroup-isuzu.co.uk

NORTHGATE ISUZU Kent Tel. 01227 829930 www.northgate-isuzu.co.uk

DAVID TAYLOR GARAGES LTD Gwent 01873 810304 www.holdcroft-isuzu.co.uk

DUCKWORTH ISUZU Lincolnshire (North) 01673 799 393 www.duckworthisuzu.co.uk

YORK VAN CENTRE North Yorkshire 01904 275 211 www.yorkvancentre-isuzu.co.uk

MAPLE GARAGE East Riding of Yorkshire Tel. 01964 782292 www.maplegarage-isuzu.co.uk

DUCKWORTH ISUZU Lincolnshire (South) 01205 449 758 www.duckworthisuzu.co.uk

MARK WEATHERHEAD LTD Cambridgeshire 01954 574 562 www.markweatherhead-isuzu.co.uk

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

July 2016 | Farming Monthly | 63

| Motors

64 | Farming Monthly | July 2016

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

July 2016 | Farming Monthly | 65

| Motors

Kate Humble takes delivery of new L200 Series 5 Broadcaster, businesswoman and farmer, Kate Humble, has taken delivery of an all-new Mitsubishi L200 Series 5 after the model’s forerunners became one of the most important tools on her farm. he well known TV presenter is currently busy gearing up for The Big Day Out, a weekend festival of food, music, crafts and fun at her farm, Humble by Nature, in the Wye Valley, Monmouth, and the L200 is already being put to good use.

Kate has admired the versatile and dependable pick-up over the years since buying her first – a battered second hand Series 2 – and has since gone on to become a Mitsubishi brand ambassador.

The new Series 5 is Kate’s fourth L200 and the adaptable allrounder has become the go-to vehicle on her working farm where it is used for everything from transporting animals to getting things ready for the Big Day Out, which takes place from Friday, July

T

1st to Sunday, July 3rd.

Kate also uses the pick up for business, travelling to filming locations and personal appearances across Europe.

Taking delivery of the new L200 Series 5, an excited Kate said: “I absolutely love the L200.

“With my lifestyle, I want a vehicle that’s really going to work and one that isn’t phased by anything.

“For me, that’s the L200 because it does exactly what it says on the tin and is up to any job.”

Kate, whose second book, A Friend for Life: The Extraordinary Partnership Between Humans and Dogs came out at the end of May, added: “I’ve been through the L200s over the years – this will be my fourth – and the Mitsubishi designers and engineers have been winning me over with a

New powertrain option for Hyundai Tucson Hyundai Motor UK’s best-selling model, the Hyundai Tucson compact SUV, is now offered with a fifth powertrain option. A dynamic and efficient 141 PS 1.7-litre turbo diesel with seven-speed double clutch transmission (7DCT) and two-wheel drive (2WD) is available to order in the UK. yundai Motor’s inhouse developed 7DCT system offers a choice between fully automatic operation and sequential manual gear changes, selected with the gear lever for greater driver involvement. The 7DCT provides improved fuel efficiency and lower CO2 emissions compared to a sixspeed automatic transmission emitting only 129g of CO2 and offering fuel consumption of 57.6 mpg on a combined cycle. The turbo diesel engine provides a maximum torque of 340 Nm over a wide rev range of 1,750 rpm to 2,500 rpm.

For further efficiency, the new powertrain comes with Hyundai’s Integrated Stop & Go (ISG) system as standard, which is also available for the 1.7-litre (116PS), and the 2.0-litre 2WD (136PS) diesel engines as well as the 1.6litre petrol engine.

The Tucson is one of the safest vehicles in its segment and received the maximum five-star

H

Euro NCAP safety rating. It benefits from a solid body structure featuring 51% of ultrahigh strength steel for improved torsional rigidity and impact resistance and a host of innovative passive and active safety features like Autonomous Emergency Braking with pedestrian recognition that can stop the car automatically if a crash is predicted. The Tucson’s list of safety features also includes a Blind Spot Detection alerts the driver to approaching vehicles, Rear Cross Traffic Alert which scans a 180-degree area behind the vehicle alerting the driver if there is approaching cross-traffic and the Lane Keep Assist System applying steering correction in case of unintended lane departure.

Additionally the Active Hood cushions the impact shock in case of a frontal collision.

The new 1.7-litre CRDi 7DCT powertrain is available to order in the UK now across the Tucson range from SE trim and above.

66 | Farming Monthly | July 2016

better driving experience and more creature comforts each time.

“As soon as you drive the new Series 5 you can feel the improvements Mitsubishi has made. It has a lighter touch and is

instantly more responsive and car like. We have already been putting it to work on the farm and it can handle everything we need it to.”

For more information on The Big Day Out go to www.humblebynature.com/bigdayout

4,000,000 Dacias...

Worldwide milestone celebrated at the 2016 French Dacia Picnic. acia continues to grow, selling its 4 millionth vehicle and setting a new record in its young history. This milestone was celebrated with the Dacia community at its annual picnic on Sunday at Domaine de Courson in France. With his purchase of a Duster, Denys Charrasse became the brand’s 4 millionth customer and, in turn, a part of Dacia’s history. Mr Charrasse was welcomed and celebrated at the Dacia France Picnic by more than 11,000 participants at the event, who had the opportunity to sign a commemorative Duster prepared for the occasion.

Dacia is enjoying great success in the 44 countries around the world where its vehicles are marketed. Since the beginning of the year, the brand ranks fifth in the passenger car segment in France, with its Sandero already a leader of the passenger cars sold to individuals. In the UK, Dacia regularly outperforms much larger and well-established brands in its segment thanks to strong Sandero, Duster and Logan MCV sales, with over 78,000 Dacias sold in the UK since its launch in April 2013.

D

Dacia has won numerous awards in the UK since launching just over three years ago including What Car?’s ‘Best Small Car under £12,000’ for four consecutive years for the Sandero. One of the UK’s largest automotive owner satisfaction studies, Auto Express Driver Power, has placed Dacia in its top five best manufacturers for three consecutive years, out of 32 brands featured in the 2016 survey, with customers praising the brand’s reliability in particular.

Dacia has won numerous awards in the UK The eighth edition of Dacia’s yearly picnic was again a great success. Customers and their families enjoyed a day full of events such as volleyball, football, sailing, photo booths and workshops. Dacia organises these events across the world to thank its enthusiastic customers and ever-growing community.

Dacia UK’s Dacia Day for owners will take place on 13th August at Bruntingthorpe. More information will be provided via the Dacia UK Facebook page in the coming weeks.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

July 2016 | Farming Monthly | 67