March 2014 Farming Monthly National

Farming

MONTHLY National

March 2014

Inside this issue...

Renewables

Tractors & Tyres

| Focus on AD

Latest equipment news |

Precision

On Topic

| Drones: A weapon for agriculture

Bee project |

Security | Think about security measures Also Inside: Groundcare | Forestry | Grain | Education | Silage | Pest Control | ATV | Motors

Contents

55

70

March 2014

42 51

FMN

Features

FMN

Regulars

12 21 24 26 28 32 34 42

Animal Health

06 11 15 38 52 60

News

Latest news

Groundcare Keep your grounds in order

Sprays & Sprayers Sector news

Pests Pest problems? Call the professionals.

Buildings Agricultural Buildings Show. CE Marking...

Fencing Keep livestock in...and predators out.

Security

All the latest need to know commentary

On Topic Bee project highlights nectar supply gap

Renewables Focus on AD

Machinery New machinery news

ATV The essential workhorse round-up

Motors What’s new on the road?

NEXT MONTH

Stay protected...

We take a look at Pest Control

Tractors & Tyres Latest news We welcome feedback and encourage readers to air their views. Have an opinion on a story or something you want to get off your chest? Write to us at the address below or email letters@farmingmonthly.com Whilst every attempt is made to ensure accuracy, the opinions expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of the Editor. The Editor also reserves the right to alter or edit material as necessary and no responsibility is accepted for inaccuracies. Full copyright applies. All rights reserved 2014.

Andrew Poulton EDITOR

Connect with us: Published in the UK by Farming Monthly Ltd, 15-17 Dugdale Street, Nuneaton, Warwickshire CV11 5QJ Tel: +44 (0) 2476 353537 Fax: +44 (0) 2476 353571 Editor Andrew Poulton Editorial Assistant editorial@farmingmonthly.com Advertising Director Shona Beedham s.beedham@farmingmonthly.com Senior Advertising Sales Jenny Tranter j.tranter@farmingmonthly.com Advertising Sales Jessica Hopper j.hopper@farmingmonthly.com Advertising Sales Oliver Shorrock o.shorrock@farmingmonthly.com Accounts Manager Cheryl Arnold c.arnold@farmingmonthly.com Production studio@farmingmonthly.com Subscriptions subscriptions@farmingmonthly.com For editorial and general enquiries or to advertise please call Tel: +44 (0) 2476 353537 or email sales@farmingmonthly.com

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| News

FUW urges members to give their views on RDP consultation The Farmers’ Union of Wales is urging farmers to make their views known following the publication of the Welsh Government’s consultation on the Rural Development Plan (RDP) for 2014-2020. armers can respond through the union’s head office, their local county office or directly to the Welsh Government via the response form on their website.

The proposals outline how the Welsh Government intends to spend the £953 million allocated to Pillar Two of the Common Agricultural Policy between 2014 and 2020.

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FUW land use and parliamentary committee chairman Gavin Williams said: “The union is encouraging farmers to look carefully at the proposals within the document and to express their views on where rural development resources should be spent over the next programme by responding to the consultation document and attending the RDP consultation events organised by Wales Rural Network .

“Following the Minister’s decision to top slice 15% of Pillar 1 payments to fund rural development measures, it is vital that farmers get engaged in the process to help shape the proposals which could benefit their businesses.”

Two RDP consultation events, organised by Wales Rural Network, will be held on March 10 at St David’s Hotel, Ewloe, Queensferry, Flintshire CH5 3YB and on March 12 at Hafod a Hendre, Royal Welsh Showground, Llanelwedd, Powys LD2 3SY. Those wishing to attend these meetings can register by contacting Welsh Government senior information officer Cath Midgley on 01686 620253 or 07817 405520.

The consultation document can be downloaded from the FUW’s website at: www.fuw.org.uk/Consultation/items/1359.html

Deadline day as CLA fears ‘second great train robbery’ The CLA has described the HS2 Environmental Statement as “blatantly disregarding the impact on landowners & farmers”. he organisation said the Statement, which ceases to take submissions at midnight tonight, sets out excessive and poorly justified land take for environmental mitigation which fails to take into account the huge impact on agriculture.

CLA Deputy President Ross Murray said: “The Department for Transport is standing back and allowing HS2 to undertake a despicable land grab and trying to

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get it on the cheap from affected farmers. This is the second great train robbery.

“The Environmental Statement fails to make a proper assessment of the impact on agriculture.

“While 80 pages of the statement is dedicated to bats, there is little mitigating the impact on the 300 or so farmers who are suffering now with the stress of losing their land, homes, buildings and livelihoods.

06 | Farming Monthly | March 2014

“Land managers and farmers have spent many years caring for this land and the habitats that HS2 will destroy, yet the compulsory purchase system will take far more land from them than is necessary.”

The CLA said HS2 Ltd’s environmental strategy was overly ambitious while landowners will be subject to poor compensation, paid many years too late, that will then be subject to tax.

CLA Chief Surveyor Andrew

Shirley said: “Our assessment is HS2 Ltd has over-estimated the required replacement habitat at every turn, by giving the original habitat greater value than it has in reality then adding more mitigation land just for good measure.

“We have consistently asked the Government to introduce a duty to minimise land take but there has been a reluctance to do so, resulting in an unjustified land grab of epic proportions.”

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| News

New headquarters for BDC Systems Following the most significant investment in the history of the company, BDC Systems has moved into new 19500 sq feet headquarters near Marlborough, Wiltshire.

he move follows a highly successful period of continuous growth with the company completely outgrowing its existing premises near Andover.

BDC Systems' Managing Director Andrew Head comments: “This is a highly significant chapter in the development of BDC Systems and will take us to the next level in terms of potential growth and our customer support

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capability. With a total four and a half acre site, the company has great scope for even further expansion.”

The full address of the new HQ is: BDC Systems Ltd, Grafton Road, Burbage, Marlborough, Wiltshire, SN8 3BA. BDC Systems is the UK's leading one stop shop for grain drying, cleaning, storage, handling and ventilation systems. The new HQ's 17000 sq ft warehouse will

enable the company to stock a much greater range of spares across the range and so further improve its renowned levels of customer service.

A new showroom facility will exhibit products from the range, including the world leading Skandia Elevator and Svegma grain drier brands. This showroom will be of particular interest to the company’s more locally based customers. The 2500 sq ft office facility is home to the company’s Sales, administration and technical support function which is headed up by Technical Director Andrew Lee. Andrew Head concludes:” Later this year we will also be celebrating our 20th anniversary and so all in all 2014 is a really big year for us. We would like to thank

A new showroom facility will exhibit products from the range, including the world leading Skandia Elevator and Svegma grain drier brands.

our customers for the support they have given us and we look forward to providing them with even better service and cutting edge grain handling technology well in to the future.”

More information is available at www.bdcsystems.com and from BDC Systems Ltd, Grafton Road, Burbage, Marlborough, Wiltshire SN8 3BA, Tel: 01672 810851, Fax: 01672 811141, email: info@bdcsystems.com

March 2014 | Farming Monthly | 07

| News

EHL Ingredients gallops in with new range of horse feed EHL Ingredients, a leading importer, blender and packer of natural and organic ingredients from around the world, is entering the animal feed sector with the launch of a ten-strong range of garlic, mint and mixed herbs products for the equine market, including a premium organic range of ingredients for racing horses and thoroughbreds. vailable now via wholesalers and distributors, the quality products are sold in bulk quantities and are aimed at animal feed and supplement manufacturers, processors and packers. They can be used alone or added to horse feed mixes to create bespoke formulations.

EHL offers ingredients suitable for equine feed, from the finest garlic granules and powder to dried peppermint, spearmint and mixed herb blends for horse feed mixes, available in standard or organic varieties.

Garlic has long been used to support a healthy respiratory system in horses, to aid the digestive system and acts as a natural insect repellent. The component responsible for many of garlic’s properties is allicin, which is a useful source of organic sulphur, however garlic also contains key vitamins and minerals, which have powerful antioxidant properties to support a horse’s overall health and wellbeing.

Mint is a soothing herb and a great digestive tonic. It the perfect addition to commercial

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horse feeds to enhance the flavour, making it more palatable for the horse.

These ingredients are available in bulk quantities, from 1kg, 3kg and 5kg bags to full 25kg sacks and have a shelf-life of up to 18 months, when stored in a cool, dry environment.

EHL Ingredients has been sourcing natural and organic ingredients from around the world for over 18 years and this is the company’s first move into the animal feed sector. It is using its expert sourcing and distribution capabilities to obtain and supply the finest, highest quality natural and organic ingredients for animal feed products.

Tasneem Backhouse, sales director at EHL Ingredients says: “It’s an exciting time for EHL Ingredients as we expand our portfolio and offer our natural ingredients to the animal feed sector. We have launched the products in response to customer demand as we received several requests for ingredients for horses. As a result, we have developed a specific range for horse feed manufacturers, using only the finest

high quality garlic. It is available in organic format too, as we have experienced demand from racehorse owners for premium, organic varieties. The garlic crop harvest for 2013 has increased by about 30% on the previous year so we have a fantastic supply of quality garlic products.”

“We are delighted to be able to offer customers in the animal feed sector our range of ingredients in a format that suits their needs and we look forward to working with animal feed manufacturers across the UK.” Tasneem concludes: “This new addition to our portfolio will help to drive the company forward as we continue to expand the business and become a major player in the UK food industry.”

Contact EHL Ingredients for details of your nearest supplier or to become a stockist.

To find out more about EHL Ingredients, visit www.ehl-ingredients.co.uk, email info@ehlingredients.co.uk or call 0161 480 7902.

Next Auctions on 10th March 2014 & 7th April 2014 commencing at 10.30am

08 | Farming Monthly | March 2014

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| Feature

Farmers must prepare for mis-sold swaps ‘end game’ Hard-hit farmers urged to join strategic debate on rate swap scandal: Scott Cowan, Director of armers are used to overcoming hardship and adversity but even some of the most resilient members of the farming community have been left reeling from the impact of the interest rate swap mis-selling scandal that has blighted thousands of UK farms.

Farming has emerged as one of the sectors that have been disproportionately badly affected by mis-sold swaps. Recent headlines have reinforced the extent of the financial hit to the sector which is an important contributor to the UK economy - a rising number of farm owners report being forced to sell land that has been in their families for generations in order to meet repayments linked to mis-sold swaps contracts.

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“I had a three hour ‘Fact Find’ call with two lawyers and an independent reviewer appointed by the bank. I now realise even that was a stitch-up...

Veritas Treasury is currently working on swaps compensation cases for farmers throughout the UK, from arable farmers in Lincolnshire to sheep farmers in Aberdeenshire. Many have expressed deep frustration and anger over their treatment by banks who sold them highly complex and toxic hedging products that were totally inappropriate for their business needs.

Our farming clients enjoyed positive longstanding relationships with their banks (prior to the swaps scandal), often dealing with special agricultural units that understood the economics and challenges of modern farming.

Many had used the same bank for generations and their own banking relationship manager introduced them to derivatives sales teams from a different part of the bank. For most, that marked the start of the problems they still face today, seven years or more after signing a swaps contract.

One client told us: “I trusted my bank manager and I believed I was doing the right thing by following his advice to take out a swap. He introduced me to his colleague who was a derivatives expert, that was why I thought it would be OK. I was trying to make all these decisions single-handedly in a portakabin on the farm.”

Another issue of concern is the stress

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farmers endure when they pursue compensation via the FCA review on their own, which can result in an adversarial encounter with their bank.

One of our farming clients approached Veritas for help after pursuing his own case unsuccessfully, he wrote: “I had a three hour ‘Fact Find’ call with two lawyers and an independent reviewer appointed by the bank. I now realise even that was a stitch-up... I am up against it now: a farmer against a corporate machine.”

The feeling of battling a corporate machine is a common one. The farmers we represent have demonstrated impressive entrepreneurial drive in expanding and developing their assets to augment modest farming incomes. Some diversified into converting disused farm buildings into offices, while others have developed dairies or wind farms. Banks were keen to fund loans, particularly while land values were high.

However, none of these farmers were equipped with the particular expertise needed to make important judgment calls in the highly complex area of derivatives. Some felt under pressure to accept a hedging product or risk jeopardising a loan. Some were persuaded to take a swap as a hedge against a rise in interest rates but they were painfully unaware of the serious consequence of interest rates moving dramatically downwards (as happened in 2008) or of punitive costs to exit from a contract.

There is an urgent need for farmers who have been (or suspect that they might have been) mis-sold a swap - to raise their voices and participate in a strategic debate on measures needed to resolve one of the worst financial scandals in recent history.

We are inviting farmers from across the UK to attend a Strategic Debate on Mis-Sold Swaps we are hosting with our partners Frenkels Forensic Accountants on March 20th at the Pullman Hotel, London NW1. It will be

London Seminar - March 20th 2014

chaired by broadcaster Andrew Neil and will provide farmers and other business owners with an opportunity to engage directly with prominent politicians and business leaders including members of the Treasury Select Committee and the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Interest Rate Swaps.

The swaps scandal is entering a crucial phase as the end of the formal Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) Review process approaches, with just a fraction of the £3.75 billion set aside for compensation paid out.

Banks are under pressure to wrap up cases by the end of May and there is a risk that the clean-up race might result in (even more) inconsistencies in compensation decisions or hastily-considered judgements which leave business owners with little recourse to appeal.

There is also a need to address the plight of people unhappy with the outcome of their case review and the thousands more unjustly deemed ‘sophisticated’ investors and excluded from the FCA review process. Veritas will be pursuing these issues and seeking answers to other important unanswered questions as the swaps scandal ‘end game’ begins in earnest.

Join us to have your say in the debate - visit our website for details. www.veritastreasury.com

Scott Cowan

MIS-SOLD INTEREST RATE SWAPS: A STRATEGIC DEBATE Join Veritas Treasury & Frenkels to debate the future as swaps ‘end game’ begins DATE & TIME: Thursday March 20th 1700-1930 hrs (networking till 2100) VENUE: Pullman Hotel, 100-110 Euston Road, London NW1 2AJ FREE EVENT: Book via www.veritastreasury.com

March 2014 | Farming Monthly | 09

| News

New environmental scheme for farmers to prioritise biodiversity Farming Minister George Eustice has announced that the new environmental land management scheme will provide funding for farmers and land managers who deliver benefits for wildlife, improve water quality and create woodland. r Eustice said: “We have a great track record in countryside stewardship schemes and we want to build on what has been started. The new scheme will prioritise promoting biodiversity and will be tailored to fit local needs. It will be more targeted so we can deliver wildlife corridors but there will also be grants available to all farmers.”

From 2016, the new environmental land management scheme will be targeted so that farmers can help deliver environmental priorities specifically related to their local area, focussing particularly on increasing biodiversity, helping wildlife and improving water quality. For example, if one area is home to rare farmland birds, farmers will be reimbursed for enhancing this habitat. If, in another area, agricultural pollution has affected local rivers, farmers will be able to apply for funding to reduce soil erosion and run-off from their fields.

The existing Environmental Stewardship and

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England Woodland Grant Scheme will be brought together into a universal scheme that will be open to applications from both farmers and foresters.

During EU negotiations on the Common Agricultural Policy, the UK pressed for each country to have the option to channel a greater proportion of CAP funding into delivering environmental benefits. As a result, £3.1billion of funding will be available for environmental schemes in England which is a higher proportion of the CAP budget than ever before.

Plans for England’s implementation of the EU’s Young Farmers Scheme to give extra support to farmers under forty years of age were also set out. Defra has announced the intention to apply this support to the maximum land area of farms. Young farmers will be able to claim a top-up payment for up to ninety hectares of their holding for the first five years of its operation.

The work of farmers and land managers through existing agri-environment schemes has

created habitats for rare farmland birds and pollinators and boosted rural tourism by improving the natural environment.

The new scheme will prioritise promoting biodiversity and will be tailored to fit local needs.

Since 2005, they have: • Managed 41% of English hedgerows, providing shelter and food for wildlife • Restored or newly planted 30,000 kilometres of hedgerows• Helped pollinators by sowing wildflowers in arable field margins • Helped increase breeding populations of nationally scarce farmland birds including the cirl bunting (increased by 600% since 1989) and stone curlew Nearly 52,000 farmers and other land managers have signed up for the schemes, covering over 6.4 million hectares - or 70% of farmland in England.

Farmland prices jump almost fifteen percent in one year Farmland prices hit yet another record high during the final six months of 2013, having jumped around fifteen percent in the space of a year, says the latest RICS/RAU Rural Land Market Survey H2 2013. uring the second half of last year, the average cost of farmland rose to £7,754 per acre* across England and Wales, hitting a record high for the ninth consecutive period. The cost of land is now 14.3 percent higher than during the same period in 2012 when an acre cost, on average, just under £6,800.

Growth in prices has been driven by the ongoing surge in demand from farmers looking to expand their operations, while the amount of land coming up for sale is continuing to lag well behind. However, with many areas having been subject to severe flooding in recent weeks, it remains to be seen what impact this will have on the price and saleability of farmland in some areas.

Despite remaining unchanged on the first half of the year, prices in the North West were the highest in Great Britain with the cost of an acre coming in at £8,813. Meanwhile, land north of the border, in Scotland, was the least expensive with an acre costing around £3,750.

Looking ahead, chartered surveyors are predicting prices to continue to rise over the coming year, given the significant supplydemand imbalance. That said, with floods having swept across the country, markets in the southern regions could well be significantly affected in terms of both transactions and prices.

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Jeremy Blackburn, RICS Head of UK Policy, commented: “Farmland price growth has been enormous in recent years. With commodity prices now having remained strong for some time, many farmers have been looking to expand their businesses and, with so little actually coming up for sale, competition for good land is fierce.

Despite remaining unchanged on the first half of the year, prices in the North West were the highest in Great Britain.

“Although, with floods having devastated large swathes of southern England, what remains to be seen is the impact this has on the market in these areas and further afield. It will not be surprising to see this have a negative effect on transactions. In fact, a lot of the best quality and highest value agricultural land in the UK is located close to rivers and on floodplains so this too could potentially have an impact on food production.” * Opinion based measure, £ per acre (based on median surveyor estimates of bare land only containing no residential component, not subject to revision)

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| On Topic

On Topic

Bee project highlights nectar supply gap season could Improving pollen and nectar availability at either end of the growing leading says , growers benefit ly ultimate and significantly boost farmland insects agronomy firm Hutchinsons.

nitial findings from its five-year Bee Project (see panel below) suggest that while many farms are doing a lot to encourage bees and other pollinator insects through stewardship schemes, much of the emphasis is on mid-season pollen and nectar production, resulting in comparatively low food supply for such insects in early spring and autumn.

March and September / October are the main months where nectar availability needs to be improved, project leader Bob Bulmer told attendees at Hutchinsons technical conference in Harrogate.

“Many insects, particularly Queen Bumble bees start flying early in the season, from the end of February onwards, so it’s vital they can replenish the energy lost during hibernation in order to breed properly for the coming season.

Likewise, other species, such as the ivy bee, are active late into the autumn and will need enough food sources to see them through the winter.”

He says a lot of pollinating insects have

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become reliant on a narrow range of arable crops, notably oilseed rape and peas, for their nectar supply and it is crucial to build more diversity into this supply throughout the year, not just the main summer months.

Simple steps Dr Bulmer believes this is relatively easy to do on farm and does not necessarily require expensive seed mixtures or taking areas of productive land out of production.

He acknowledges that it may be difficult and potentially quite costly to establish purposebought herbaceous seed early in the season, so instead suggests trying to identify and encourage naturally-occurring beneficial plants on certain uncropped areas, field margins or awkward field corners.

For example, ground ivy, white/ red deadnettle and dandelion are all useful species for extending insect food availability, while planting early flowering shrubby species such as goat willow and blackthorn can give longerterm benefits.

Changing cutting regimes on grass and

flower margins to delay flowering is another relatively easy way to extend food supply for insects, while including a particularly lateflowering variety of knapweed in any mix is a useful addition for boosting end of season food, he says. There are also a number of other wild species that flower later in the year, such as field scabious and wild carrot, he says.

March and September / October are the main months where nectar availability needs to be improved.

“Generally, if you get the plants right then everything else will follow, so getting more flowering species on farms will have a tremendous benefit for bees and other pollinator species, which are so crucial for pollinating farmland crops. It’s also a good way of creating positive news stories for farmers and ultimately helps improve the industry’s public image.”

The Bee Project needs you he Bee Project is a joint initiative between Hutchinsons and Gleadell Agriculture that started in 2012.

The five-year project initially involved a survey of two predominantly arable farms – Midloe Grange, Cambridgeshire and Worlaby Farm, Lincolnshire – to evaluate and quantify the availability of pollen and nectar through

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the year and find practical ways of balancing this supply.

Despite differences in the size, crop rotation and environmental practices already employed across each farm, both sites experienced low levels of pollen and nectar production in March and September/ October.

This year different plant mixtures are to be

trialled at Worlaby Farm to investigate which have the greatest potential for improving pollen and nectar supply early and late in the season.

Dr Bulmer is looking for other commercial farms to take part in the project and anyone interested should contact him directly on 07810 515892.

March 2014 | Farming Monthly | 11

| Animal Health

Major BVD initiative launches in England and Wales A major new initiative concerning one of the most devastating diseases affecting the cattle industry, BVD, Bovine Viral Diarrhoea - has been launched in England and Wales. he campaign, Farming Against BVD, includes an independent survey which aims to gain a clearer insight into this complex, confusing disease by seeking the views of farmers in England and Wales.

An expert panel, headed by Professor Joe Brownlie (Royal Veterinary College and Chairman of the BVD Scientific and technical working group), will then come together to analyse the findings, using them to shape and drive an industry response.

“BVD is a costly and complex disease, spread by a pestivirus that affects the reproductive and immune systems,” says Professor Joe Brownlie. “Persistently Infected (PI) animals are the main source of infection, but can be hard to identify without testing. Only total eradication will prevent the disease from spreading. Eradication Schemes in a number of European countries have already succeeded and Scotland and Ireland have embarked on similar schemes. The information being gathered will help the industry to develop a much needed scheme for England and Wales.”

The campaign has been initiated by Novartis Animal Health in partnership with key industry bodies, and results from the survey are due to be announced in the spring. Joining Professor Joe Brownlie on the expert panel will be Dr Peter Nettleton (Moredun Research Institute), Mansel Raymond (Dairy farmer and Chairman of the NFU Dairy Board), Caroline Dawson (Novartis Animal Health Veterinary Surgeon) and Paddy Gordon (Veterinary Practitioner).

Survey topics will include levels, and methods, of testing for BVD on farm, understanding of the role of PI animals and the financial impact of BVD on dairy and beef units.

Farmers will also be asked who they look to for advice and how they view the role of vaccination.

“Countrywide eradication may not be achieved for a number of years, although individual farmers can control the disease on their own farms within 1-2 years, providing substantial cost benefits” says Caroline Dawson, Novartis Animal Health Veterinary Surgeon. “The purpose of this campaign is to encourage farmers to take action now against BVD. By working closely with their vets, identifying and removing PI animals, BVD can

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be removed. Ensuring adequate biosecurity and a robust vaccination policy will eliminate the risk of bringing BVD back onto the farm.”

“Understanding what farmers understand about BVD, particularly the role of the PI animal,” concludes Professor Brownlie, “will enable members of the panel, and the wider industry including Novartis and the BVD Stakeholder Group, to meet farmer needs more

“BVD is a costly and complex disease, spread by a pestivirus that affects the reproductive and immune systems,” accurately. Greater awareness of the problem is vital - this is the only way that progress towards eradication will be made.”

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| Animal Health

Scientists to tackle burden of cattle disease on UK farms Researchers from the University of Liverpool are leading a new campai disease in cattle that costs the UK economy £300m each year.

he £1 million project will look at how to improve the detection and control of liver fluke, a disease that is transmitted by the dwarf pond snail and is found on over 75% of UK dairy farms.

The disease causes cattle to lose weight, become anaemic, lethargic and reduces productivity in dairy and beef herds.

Outside of the UK, there have also been examples of it being transmitted to humans.

Veterinary parasitologist, Professor Diana Williams, from the University’s Institute of Infection and Global Health, said: “This disease is on the increase, partly due to climate change and changes in farming practices and it is fast becoming difficult to treat because of growing resistance to medication.”

To combat this problem, scientists at Liverpool are collaborating with the farming industry, to undertake a four-year research

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gn to tackle a

programme that will improve management of the disease; use drug treatment sustainably; create practical differences in farming techniques; and develop detection processes to mitigate the impact of the disease on the UK farming industry.

As well as improving the use of treatments at specific times of year to slow the development of drug resistance, the team will create a system to categorise snail habitats that can be used alongside satellite imagery for individual farms.

Professor Williams added: “We will also look at husbandry practices and physical and environmental factors from a study of 250 farms to feed into statistical and mathematical models that will help us determine more effectively why some farms have fluke whilst others in close proximity do not.”

The initiative is co-funded by the

“This disease is on the increase, partly due to climate change and changes in farming practices and it is fast becoming difficult to treat because of growing resistance to medication.”

Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC), and the five UK meat and milk levy boards, EBLEX (English Beef and Lamb Executive), HCC (Meat Promotion Wales), Quality Meat Scotland, AgriSearch (Northern Ireland), and DairyCo. It also involves researchers from the Moredun Research Institute, the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology and the Scottish Rural University College (SRUC).

Receding flood waters pose danger to animals Vets at the British Veterinary Association (BVA) are warning animal owners in flood-stricken areas to be aware of the new dangers posed by receding flood waters. he water, which has flooded homes and land across the UK, is finally beginning to subside but vets are warning that the danger to pets and livestock remains. In areas where water has been contaminated by sewage, chemicals and other waste, farmers and pet owners will need to remain vigilant about potential health threats to their animals.

BVA President and vet Robin Hargreaves said: “The terrible flooding has devastated many areas and it will be a huge relief for residents to see the waters subside. Unfortunately, the

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challenges for animal owners remain, as contaminated water continues to pose a threat to pets and livestock.

“Pet owners should try to keep their animals from drinking contaminated water, as effluent and bacteria can be very harmful. It is also worth checking with your vet that you are up-to-date with all vaccinations. This will give your pet the best possible protection against diseases, such as leptospirosis, which can be spread through stagnant water.

“Farmers need to consider the risks posed by contamination both to drinking water and feed for their livestock. Both silage and forage

may have been contaminated by chemicals or waste and should not be fed to animals if they show signs of spoilage or mould. If alternative water or feed is not available it may be best to consider selling animals and reinvesting when conditions improve.”

Animal owners in affected areas should speak to their vet if they have concerns and check with their environmental health team, who should be in a position to advise on local levels of contamination.

For more information and advice from vets on animal welfare issues visit the BVA website at www.bva.co.uk/news

March 2014 | Farming Monthly | 13

| Education

Lantra announces the winner of its first ever Careers Competition A 13-year-old student from Devon is celebrating after being crowned winner of Lantra’s inaugural Careers Competition. imed at year 9 to 13 pupils across the UK, the competition asked students to research a career in the land-based and environmental sector and create material to promote it to inspire other young people. Bradley Gilmour from Marland School in Torrington impressed the judges with his wellresearched information pack about equine therapy for children with special needs. Bradley was presented with an iPad Air, kindly sponsored by the Society for the Environment, by Lantra’s Regional Partnership Manager Lyndsay Bird at a ceremony at his school on Friday. Marland School also received a prize of a Kindle Fire sponsored by ABC Awards.

The competition allowed students to present their chosen career in a number of formats such as a short documentary film, interview, audio visual presentation, illustrated case

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study, story board or information pack. The competition was designed to complement many aspects of the National Curriculum and as a useful exercise in encouraging students to explore career options they may not have previously considered.

Bradley’s information pack contained comprehensive details of entry routes to a career in equine therapy, including details of college courses and apprenticeships. It also featured an interview with someone working in the equine industry, as well as Bradley’s own personal reasons for choosing to research the topic.

Madge Moore, Lantra’s National Director for England who helped judge the competition said: “This is a well-researched information pack which contains a good level of information. It’s clear that he has a lot of empathy as well as passion for the subject. His approach was particularly

innovative and the layout was clear and engaging.”

The competition attracted interest from across the UK and prizes of £30 Amazon vouchers were also awarded for good effort to Zoe Whatley, Trinity LudfordTrigwell, Georgia Kennedy, Amy Burton and Fiona Murphy from South Wiltshire Grammar School.

The school also received an Amazon voucher worth £50, all sponsored by the Institute of Animal Technology.

“This is a well-researched information pack which contains a good level of information. It’s clear that he has a lot of empathy as well as passion for the subject.”

More information about landbased and environmental careers can be found here: www.lantra.co.uk/careers.

Profes fe essio onal Doctor torates es Agriculture and Food (DAgriFood) and Veterinary Practice ( VetD) Open to professionals working in the veterinar y or agri-food sectors, our Professional Doctorates develop the ability to integrate academic and professional knowledge.

Interested?

Interested? Get Get in in ttouch! ouch!

T: 01707 6669660 E: ilhp@r vc.ac.uk W: w w w.r vc.ac.uk /prof-doc F Follow o ll o w u us: s: @A ATPilhp

14 | Farming Monthly | March 2014

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| Renewables

Fre-energy AD plant at Lodge Farm

North Wales on-farm AD receives UK’s first RHI payment

Lodge Farm, home to the inaugural award winning “fre-energy” Anaerobic Digester, is the first AD plant in the UK to receive the Government RHI (Renewable Heat Incentive) payment.

ocated on the outskirts of Wrexham, North Wales, the farm comprises 1100 acres given over, on a fully organic basis, to a herd of 650 dairy cattle and has been running its AD plant for over 4 years. The fre-energy Digester generates a reliable and constant production of energy 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, with a generation capacity of 160kw of electricity and 195 kW of heat.

With the exception of the heat used to heat the digester, around 50kw of heat is used, on-site for two houses, two shops and the fre-energy office.

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Although our AD plant can also digest crops perfectly well, it is not restricted to non contaminated feed stocks only.

Surplus electricity is exported to the National Grid (sufficient to supply around 80 houses) and is eligible for the Feed in Tariff (FiTs).

Lodge Farm’s plant, which comprises a digester with capacity to process 33 tonnes of farm slurry each day, is unique in being able to continually process grit-laden waste materials. Unlike AD plants in mainland Europe, there is no requirement for the fre-energy system to be regularly shut down whilst the digester tank has to be emptied. Consequently, this technology has enabled Lodge

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Farm to run solely on animal slurries avoiding having to allocate valuable land, which is best served to sustaining the farm’s core dairy business, on which to grow crops as feedstock for the plant.

Continuity of energy supply and, therefore, RHI and FiT income generation, is also assured by the ability of the plant to process high strength feed-stocks, such as chicken litter. These feedstocks have the potential to create foam which, if it enters the gas output pipes, can irreversibly damage the CHP engine and compromise the AD process. The system at Lodge Farm allows the foam to be removed from the gas space without the need to reduce the digestate level in the tank.

Richard Tomlinson, fifth generation family farmer at Lodge Farm and Managing Director of fre-energy, the company Richard has set up to design, build and install the plants for other farmers, commented: “We have developed unique technology, for which worldwide patents have been granted, to enable farms to process their animal slurry as the core feed for the digester, Although our AD plant can also digest crops perfectly well, it is not restricted to non contaminated feed stocks only. AD plants are in use on thousands of farms elsewhere in Europe, none of these plants have been designed to deal with the problems associated with processing animal waste and many are therefore beginning to fail. As farmers

ourselves, we have invented technology that is proven to work on farms and have to date

installed plants on 3 further farms and are currently working on another two, all in the UK.”

March 2014 | Farming Monthly | 15

| Renewables

The number one event for sustainability in business Sustainability Live is the UK’s ultimate event for energy efficiency, energy recovery, water and wastewater management comprising of NEMEX, ENERGY RECOVERY and IWEX. he event offers the opportunity to compare products and services from a wide range of exhibitors alongside a freeto-attend Keynote and Seminar programme at Birmingham’s NEC from the 1st to 3rd April 2014.

“Better energy management can enable firms to reduce their energy bills and future-proof their business against long-term price rises and volatility,” says David Copeland, Marketing Director of Sustainability Live. “The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) believes that business activity on the ground can translate to a material impact on UK growth and jobs, supporting a domestic market worth £17.6bn and employing 136,000 people across the country.”

Sustainability Live will be launching its first Keynote Stage this year, situated in the heart of the exhibition and featuring expert speakers who will cut through the jargon to debate and discuss the latest sustainability policy and practice affecting business.

Over 250 leading companies will showcase their latest innovations and services at Sustainability Live, making it the perfect place to develop new business relationships, and find the best products to suit your organisation’s requirements.

Sustainability Live also has an extended and improved, CPD accredited seminar programme featuring panels of leading experts who will put the spotlight on the practical issues

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and feature the latest advice and case study examples.

NEMEX highlights The NEMEX @ Sustainability Live has a focus on energy efficiency, knowledge and expertise.

The seminars will present a number of compelling case studies that will provide visitors with the opportunity to learn how to make their organisation more energy efficient. NEMEX’s pioneering exhibitors will showcase the latest products and solutions for energy efficiency, including BSI Group, Energy Institute, ND Metering Solutions and Open Energi.

ENERGY RECOVERY highlights Energy Recovery is centred on EfW, Bioenergy and Anaerobic Digestion. The seminar programme at Energy Recovery 2014 includes a number of compelling case studies that will provide visitors with practical insights on how to develop waste-to-Energy (WtE) solutions, as well as the options available for turning residual waste into a useable form of energy.

Energy recovery’s seminar programme will include over 30 leading industry speakers from across the country in a new three-day seminar programme within the Energy Recovery Theatre.

The exhibition will showcase over 20 companies and organisations, including Siemens, BSI Group, and the Energy Institute.

IWEX highlights The key event for water and wastewater management, IWEX, will be having a special event to mark the 25th anniversary of the water

sector. A speaker panel session entitled ‘The Water Industry: 25 years since privatisation’ featuring Dan Rogerson, parliamentary under secretary of state for water, forestry, rural affairs and resource management, Defra will be the highlight of the event. The panel session will also include exclusive insights from Lord Moynihan, former parliamentary under-secretary of state responsible for water privatisation, Defra; Jonson Cox, Chairman of Ofwat; Sir Ian Byatt, former UK water regulator and Colin Skellett, executive chairman of Wessex Water.

Awards Taking place alongside Sustainability Live this year are the Environment and Energy Awards and the Water Industry Achievement Awards.

The Water Industry Achievement Awards takes place on1st April at Hilton Birmingham Metropole and celebrates and rewards outstanding innovation in the UK water industry.

The Environment and Energy Awards take place on 2nd April at the National Motorcycle Museum and is widely regarded as one of the highest accolades for sustainability in the corporate sector. It recognises excellence and innovation in sustainable business practices.

Sustainability Live 2014 is a free-to-attend event taking place at Birmingham’s NEC from 1st to 3rd April. To find out more, or to register, visit www.sustainabilitylive.com.

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| LAMMA

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March 2014 | Farming Monthly | 17

| Renewables

NFU approval for Bowler RHI review can put Tariff on long-term footing The NFU Farm Energy Service has recently welcomed a new partnership with Bowler Energy who are now one of their approved suppliers for both Wind and Solar Renewable Energy Systems.

he purpose of the Farm Energy Service, which operates in partnership with the Farm Energy Centre, is to offer a professional and trusted advice service to all NFU Members considering a Renewable Energy system. This service ensures that each, individual project is paired with the most relevant and suitable company to ensure they install the best energy system for their business and receive the highest return on investment.

With over 55,000 members, the NFU have a significant presence within the Farming Industry, the introduction of the Farm Energy Service enabled them to offer renewable energy advisory services from a well known and established company to ensure that the UK’s farming community were receiving the best advice possible.

The NFU Service which only offers supplier accreditation to companies which have passed their due diligence process which

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assesses their financial standing, duration of trading and track record in the industry. Bowler Energy, who are part of the John Bowler Group, were an ideal candidate with over 33 years trading within the free-range egg industry and an ever increasing presence in the Renewable Energy industry offering a full energy ‘We are excited to be starting this new partnership and are proud to become an approved supplier.” solutions to their customers.

Alex Bufton, Sales and Marketing Manager for Bowler Energy stated ‘We are excited to be starting this new partnership and are proud to become an approved supplier. This is a great opportunity for our company and we are looking forward to supporting the NFU Farm Energy Service.’

18 | Farming Monthly | March 2014

ADBA Chief “welcomes RHI announcement” eacting to recent news from DECC that the biomethane injection tariff will be reviewed, Charlotte Morton, chief executive, ADBA said: “We welcome the announcement that the government plans to review the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) biomethane injection tariff. The industry needs tariffs which will fairly incentivise all scales of biomethane injection, and biomethane support needs to be on a long-term footing to give certainty to developers and investors.

“This early announcement from government should help to provide certainty for the industry, allowing early sight of forthcoming changes. We will continue to work closely with

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DECC and our members to gather evidence to ensure tariffs are set at an appropriate level.

“The industry needs tariffs which will fairly incentivise all scales of biomethane injection”.

“Biomethane injected into the gas grid can deliver huge benefits to the British economy, helping to decarbonise gas supply to homes, businesses and transport, while boosting UK energy security by delivering a domestic source of energy which reduces the UK’s dependence on overseas fossil gas.”

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| Renewables

Time is running out for farmbased anaerobic digestion plants The government has recently u-turned on its commitment to review the Feed in Tariffs (FIT) for Anaerobic Digestion, resulting in an immediate 20% reduction in the FIT for small-scale (sub-500kWe) AD plants from 1st April 2014 followed by a further 10% from 1st October and another 20% in April 2015.

That’s a total reduction of 50% to the AD FIT in just 12 months. ila Energy co-founder Ruby Jones says “this is a devastating blow to the AD industry and in particular for UK farmers, as it hits precisely the rural farming community for whom an onfarm small scale anaerobic digestion plant means a viable business for generations to come. Farmers need to act now if they want an AD plant on their farm.”

Farmers who want a small scale AD plant (under 500kWe) have a very limited window of opportunity: they need to have grid connection, full planning permission and pre-accreditation from Ofgem in place by 30 September 2014 in order to qualify for the FIT from 1 April of 11.52p (250-499kWe) and 12.46p (sub 250kWe). After then they will be subject to a further 10% minimum degression.

Benefits of farm-based anaerobic digestion AD plants on British farms are exactly what our country and our economy needs as they provide far reaching benefits such as: • Using farm wastes as feedstock to produce energy (biogas, electricity and heat) and organic fertiliser • Increased income for farmers from the

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decentralised production of heat, electricity, biogas and fertiliser, providing additional and diversified local income streams • 20 year inflation linked generational investment • Increased crop productivity from the use of high quality organic fertiliser • Reduced cost of chemical/mineral fertiliser through digestate substitution • Local job creation for farm workers, engineers, plumbers, electricians, and construction workers • Landfill avoidance and waste reduction – rather wastes become an income stream Limited window of opportunity Qila Energy can arrange full funding for 499kWe AD plants for farmers and enable them to get the highest feed in tariff available. Full funding covers site lease, feedstock and operator salary and an opportunity to buy the plant back as an operating asset. But time is running out – this funding offer is only available until 1st July 2014. Farmers need to act now to benefit before it is too late.

Free grid quote As a first step in enabling farmers to find out

if they are eligible for an AD plant, Qila is currently offering a no-obligation, FREE grid connection quote. Farmers should email their farm maps to info@qilaenergy.com to get the ball rolling.

“Farmers need to act now if they want an AD plant on their farm.”

Qila Energy is a leading UK based developer of farm-based AD plants and the sole UK partner for Snow Leopard Projects GmbH whose proven 2-stage AD technology is up to 30% more efficient than single stage AD. Our 2stage AD plants separate out the hydrolysis stage of AD making our plants very robust and able to process up to 80% straw-based manure feedstock (e.g. cattle/duck/horse/pig manure, chicken litter) as well as waste veg, spoilt straw, oil seed rape straw, marginal land grass and flower mixes.

Visit www.qilaenergy.com email info@qilaenergy.com or call 020 3603 3016 Follow us: @QilaEnergyUK

March 2014 | Farming Monthly | 19

| Forestry

Hedge funds: Tree planting support available Charity launches extra assistance to landowners, smallholders and farmers who want to plant trees. he Woodland Trust is increasing the support it offers to landowners who wish to plant trees, with more funding now available for a wider range of planting projects, including hedgerow planting.

The Trust is now offering assistance to those who wish to plant hedgerows to connect existing woodland, and those who are planning larger or denser woodland planting projects. The Trust will also help landowners plant at higher densities than it has previously been able to – up to 1600 trees per hectare. It will also pay up to 60% of the cost of planting if landowners plant the trees themselves or 50% for schemes where the trees will be planted by contractors. With uncertainty still surrounding Government funding for treeplanting for the next two years due to CAP reform, this increase in planting support is much needed.

John Tucker, Director of Woodland Creation at the Woodland Trust, said: “Here in the UK, we know we’re far behind our European neighbours in the woodland stakes – we have just 13% woodland cover compared to a continental average of 44%. We also know exactly what benefits trees can offer us in terms of natural flood defences, habitat for wildlife, a source of sustainable fuel, and natural fencing and shelter on farmland. For these reasons and more, we need to plant trees, and that’s why we’re putting extra resources and energy into helping people to create woods and hedges on their land.”

Why plant trees?

Water - improving local water quality and reducing flood risk The damage caused by heavy rainfall impacts on farms, rural communities and urban centres.

Flood risks increase when rivers

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become silted-up due to soil erosion, and water quality is damaged when chemicals contaminate water courses: an estimated 25% of phosphates, 50% of nitrates and 70% of soil sediments in rivers are believed to come from the farming industry.

With severe weather events becoming more regular, the Trust is encouraging landowners to use woods, shelterbelts and hedges to help protect their land from storm damage, water erosion and to improve local water quality.

Research shows that trees increase water infiltration by up to 60 times, meaning less surface water flooding. Riverside trees stabilise banks to reduce erosion and silting, and harmful chemicals, pollutants, soil particles and fertilisers can be intercepted and filtered by trees planted along watercourses. By planting in flood catchments and upstream areas, landowners can also help reduce local flood risk.

Biodiversity - giving wildlife a helping hand New woods and hedges can provide a haven for wildlife, and make it easier for wildlife to travel through the landscape. According to the RSPB, half of England's hedgerows have been lost since World War II, due to factors including mismanagement, removal, and Dutch elm disease.

Hedges help support a wide range of our woodland birds and mammals, and are important for connecting habitats and linking woodlands to each other, creating wildlife corridors which allow our native species to travel through the landscape more easily.

Trees also attract insects which in turn pollinate crops and other plants. According to the Bee Farmers Association, at least 39 crops grown for fruit or seed are insect-pollinated. DEFRA estimates that pollination supports

20 | Farming Monthly | March 2014

£1 billion worth of UK food production each year.

Trees bring many other benefits, including a sustainable source of firewood, shade and shelter for livestock, and new beautiful natural places to cherish, enjoy and pass on to future generations.

Trees and woods integrated with other land uses means a more resilient landscape in the face of threats from climate change, diseases and pests, with healthy, diverse, ecosystems that work for people and wildlife.

What help is on offer?

Planting needn't involve losing productive land – the Woodland Trust can help people plant blocks of woodland, hedges connecting existing woodland, cover strips, or shelterbelts.

The Trust will pay up to 60% of the cost of woodland planting for landowners who will plant the trees themselves, or up to 50% of the cost for contractor-planted schemes. The total area of new woodland should add up to at least half a hectare, although smaller schemes will be considered on merit if they link existing woodland or benefit water.

Farm & woods - Keith Huggett

Funding is now available for new hedgerows which will link existing woodland (hedges must be at least 100 metres long and no longer than 250 metres, unless new woodland is also created with a total limit of 750 metres for any individual scheme).

Landowners interested in planting will receive free, expert advice including a site assessment from an expert who will help design the planting project.

Each scheme will be individually assessed, and tailored to a landowners’ needs, so anyone interested in finding out more about what help is available should call the Woodland Trust on 08452 935 689, email woodlandcreation@woodlandtrust .org.uk or visit woodlandtrust.org.uk/plant-trees

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Groundcare

Kubota: A dominant force in the groundcare sector The technology behind today’s leading groundcare machinery is moving apace.

With end users demanding more sophisticated machines to cater to widening remits, manufacturers have had to respond quickly to ensure the latest equipment meets the need. ubota is a familiar name in the farming arena, with its range of small and midrange tractors continuing to lead the marketplace. In the groundcare sector, the Kubota name is also a dominant force, and it’s ride-on mowers are well respected, prized for their reliability, robustness and superior engine quality.

As spring rolls around, we enter the season when ride-on mowers come into their own. This year, with the historic levels of rain hitting our shores, the subsequent sunshine and warmer climes ahead mean many operators will have their work cut out to keep on top of mowing duties.

To ensure mowing fleets are up to the task, Kubota has unveiled its latest ‘Spring Saver’ deal, which offers generous cash back on three of its leading ranges of rideon mowers – GR2120, T1800 and GR1600 Kubota’s GR1600-II is a stylish, durable and easy to operate cut and collect ride-on mower. Its powerful13.5HP, ETVCS diesel engine outperforms many larger petrol equivalents, whilst being extremely fuel-efficient and requiring minimum routine maintenance. The model also includes shaft driven HST transmission and Kubota’s glide cut direct easy dump grass collection system.

Packed with all the same

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features as the GR1600-II, the GR1600 ID caters for end users looking for both mulching and collection, thanks to Kubota’s 3-in1 Infinity Deck system, which allows a seamless transition between side discharge, mulching or grass collection mode. Both models are available with £200 cashback when upgrading to a Kubota ride-on mower.

The same generous £200 cashback offer is also available with one of Kubota’s petrol fuelled mowers, the18HP T1880. Built with HST transmission with cruise control, the T1880 delivers constant mowing speeds, whilst

the infinity mower deck, with a cutting width of over a metre, allows for easy transition from fine lawn work to rougher areas. The T1880 also enjoys cushion ride suspension and an optional grass collector.

Warmer climes ahead mean many operators will have their work cut out to keep on top of mowing duties.

March 2014 | Farming Monthly | 21

| Groundcare

Mower fleet boosted by cutting edge technology A fleet of ride-on lawnmowers is being geared up for the future thanks to installation of cutting edge tracking technology. ehicle solutions firm Motiva Group have produced a bespoke version of their Motrak monitoring system for The Landscape Group - a leading nationwide grounds maintenance and landscaping business.

High-tech units will be installed on 250 ride-on mowers – providing real-time data which will show precisely how each vehicle is being used.

The system is so precise that it will be able to keep track of when each machine is actually cutting grass, picking litter or running idle. It will even show when a driver is taking a break.

Real time monitoring and reporting will enable machine efficiency to be monitored and will provide contract managers with the ability to truly maximise productivity.

The unit, based around Motiva’s successful Motrak monitoring tool already widely used in cars, vans and trucks, was adapted for the fleet of machines in just six months.

A trial installation proved highly successful and the system has now gone live on 60 machines. The project will be rolled out to the rest of the fleet over the next few months.

Paul Holdcroft, head of Motrak at Stoke-onTrent-based Motiva Group, said: “Our customer had a requirement for their ride-on mowers to be tracked as they wanted to understand exactly what the machines were doing when they were out in the field.

“They wanted to see precise information such as how long the blades were actually down and working as part of plans to increase productivity.

“We already provide the company with trackers for 400 vans, tippers and four-wheel drives, so this idea was an extension of that.

“It was a complex request, but we came up with a solution which will provide tracking information for their whole fleet and which will give their contract managers direct details of how the machinery is being used.

“It will provide information on driver behaviour that can help reduce fuel costs and improve productivity by as much as 20 per cent.

“That can add up to massive for savings for anyone, let alone a company of that size and it will also have a huge positive effect on the environment as it helps to cut emissions too.”

Each mower will be fitted with a Motrak unit to provide a core tracking capability. A Human

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Paul Holdcroft - Head of Motrak

Machine Interface (HMI) keypad is interfaced to the device, enabling an operator to select a set of pre-configured status and reporting alerts relating to the operation of the machine.

The combination of the two devices will provide a mechanism of reporting positional telematics and additional messaging into the Motiva Gateway.

The HMI keypad is a 10 or 12-button numerical keypad configured to report status and alerting messages.

Automatic and physical indication of the cutting blades status will be achieved by the addition of a sensor detection input to the device from a relevant output on the machine’s control system.

Communication between the vehicle and the end-user viewing platform is performed using the device’s internal GPRS modem, which is fitted with a supplied SIM card.

The success of the venture has been an eyeopener for Motiva Group, who are now keen to explore other avenues.

Mr Holdcroft added: “We like to think of ourselves as a company that understands our customers and we have certainly done that with this project.

“Creating a bespoke solution for Motrak to be used in horticulture was something of a first for us, but it has helped to broaden our horizons.

A trial installation proved highly successful and the system has now gone live on 60 machines. The project will be rolled out to the rest of the fleet over the next few months.

“The system was obviously originally designed for cars, vans and trucks, but there are no end of other applications it could be used for.

“Tractors, road sweepers, refuse lorries and even milk floats - it just depends on how deeply customers want to monitor their vehicles.”

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| Sheep

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March 2014 | Farming Monthly | 23

| Sprayers

Stewardship welcomes recognition of low drift nozzles The announcement by the UK Chemicals Regulatory Department (CRD) to recognise low drift nozzles as risk mitigation measures for applications of plant protection products on broad acre arable and grassland crop is warmly welcomed by the consortium of the Say NO to DRIFT stewardship campaign.

ince early 2012, the initiative has proved that growers are prepared to use low drift nozzles to help retain the important insecticide, chlorpyrifos.

The move by CRD (link to announcement) is an important step for UK agriculture. It will help farmers to retain essential plant protection products that are currently on the market, yet threatened by increasingly stringent regulatory requirements.

It will also potentially close the gap between UK farmers and their European and global counterparts, who enjoy access to new, more innovative products, not yet registered in the UK. The CRD announcement details practical measures such as setting buffer zones in

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multiples of 6m – consistent with many commonly used farm sprayers up to a maximum 18m – in conjunction with low drift 3* LERAP rated nozzles.

Many farmers already use low drift 3* LERAP rated nozzles very successfully, but for new users further education schemes will be needed to support adoption, and to achieve compliance with both the new scheme, as well as existing LERAP measures.

The Say NO to DRIFT consortium has a long-standing commitment to product stewardship and will continue to assist farmers to make changes as the new scheme is implemented.

The Say NO to DRIFT stewardship campaign seeks future updates of the low drift nozzle

policy to include the use of air-blast sprayer (for use in orchards) with low drift 3* rated nozzles in orchards.

The move by CRD (link to announcement) is an important step for UK agriculture.

More information on Say NO to DRIFT can be found here: www.saynotodrift.co.uk

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Muck & Slurry

Contact your local participating dealer Morris Corfield & Co Limited Benthall Works, Shropshire TF12 5BB Tel: 01952 881000

Oliver Landpower Limited Home Park Works, Kings Langley, Hertfordshire WD4 8LW Tel: 01923 265211

Craven Arms, Shropshire Tel: 01588 673325

A14 Telford Road, Bicester Oxfordshire OX26 4LD Tel: 01869 329988

Bromyard, Herefordshire Tel: 01885 488884 Chester, Cheshire Tel: 01829 749391

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Brian Robinson Machinery Ltd East Cowton, Northallerton, North Yorkshire DL7 0DX Tel: 01325 378552

Wandon End, Luton, Bedfordshire LU2 8NY Tel: 01582 727111

March 2014 | Farming Monthly | 25

||LAMMA Pests

Pest control in Agriculture

Do you need help with preparing the right contract specification to suit your business needs?

BPCA can help you with all your pest control needs, from designing specifications, to finding a professional pest controller. Find out more at www.bpca.org.uk/advice

Often when we consider pest species on farms, we automatically think of rodents due to their ability to transfer diseases from pest to man and pest to animal. However, some pest species do not automatically cause a potential risk to health: in the right circumstances they can still be incredibly destructive to your land, crop, livestock or property. BPCA Technical Manager Richard Moseley explains why farmers should consider their pest control strategy this autumn. fter spending a considerable amount of time and money ensuring the crop in the field has been cared for in such a way as to maximise quality and yield, no doubt farmers will want to make sure that whilst in storage, the crop remains in tip top condition ready for sale. With this in mind, it’s important to take a step back and consider how you can prevent and control those core pests that are potentially causing the most damage to your business.

Rodents Rats and mice can inflict a great amount of structural damage as well as being a health hazard. They have been known to gnaw the insulation from electrical cables, create flooding by puncturing pipes, and even chew holes in gas pipes.

Rodents require three things – food, water and harbourage. By using the following good housekeeping techniques it should be possible to keep your premises rodent free: • Minimise the attractiveness of food storage/ preparation areas by ensuring that all areas are kept clean and that any gaps into buildings or

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storage areas are filled.

• Outdoors, don’t forget waste disposal areas close to your farm buildings. Rubbish should be kept in metal bins with close-fitting lids to prevent access by rodents and flies.

Remove rubbish and piles of discarded vegetation.

• Rats are neophobic - they do not like new items and changes to their environment. Take rats out of their 'comfort zone' by removing piles of scrap wood, gathered leaves, boards, pipes and abandoned equipment where rodents can hide.

Cut back weeds and clutter around buildings where possible.

• To keep rodents from entering a building, fix and replace cracked or broken doors and windows and keep drains and drain covers in a good state of repair.

Proofing involves using physical barriers at specific points where pests are most likely to gain access to a building, for example from sewers via a drain. Rats and mice can squeeze through very small gaps within a building; spaces between the floors and ceilings, behind skirting boards, ducts and conduits, and timber and plastic

26 | Farming Monthly | March 2014

casings to pipes and cables all provide perfect areas for harbourage.

There are several ways to spot if rats or mice are present. Mice produce between 40-100 droppings daily, 3-7mm long. Rats average 4050 droppings a day, each roughly 13-19mm. In a large infestation, a strong odour may be detected from the rodent’s urine, and shredded paper or burrows outdoors may indicate nests. If you do spot signs of an infestation, particularly within a roof space, it is imperative that your suspicions are confirmed by a professional; to the untrained eye, the droppings of bats can look very similar to mice droppings.

While pest prevention can be common sense, effective pest control requires in depth knowledge of the biology and behaviour of the pest in question, knowledge of the relevant legislation and also experience of which professional product will be most effective. It may be tempting to save money and attempt to control an infestation yourself but if you cannot satisfy the above criteria you could make a small problem a major one.

Pest Mammals Although pest mammals such as moles and rabbits may not an immediate cause a public health risk, they can still cause devastating damage in an agricultural environment. A good example of a pest that fits this scenario is the Mole. The soil from molehills in grass silage for example can result in spoilt and unpalatable silage, and can possibly be a source of Listeriosis in sheep. In many areas silage is already in short supply, so any pest that can contribute to it spoiling must be controlled.

Moles will also damage crop meant for consumption by humans as well as by animals. Where moles burrow under arable crops they can damage seedling and plants, resulting in wilting and death. Again,

as crop yields can be reduced due to poor weather conditions, it is essential that as much as your crop as possible is not lost to pest activity.

Rabbits too can cause issues for farmers. Rabbits will eat a wide range of herbage, but will select more nutritious growth. This results in them automatically being attracted to agricultural crops as they tend to be more nutritious and will be plentiful when planted. This can result in serious economic loss for farmers and growers, and yield losses can be substantial where rabbit activity goes unchecked.

Rabbits can also cause extreme damage with their burrow systems.

Rabbit digging will undermine embankments and even structures, causing collapse. New and even established plants and trees can be affected as rabbits tend to damage the leading shoots and strip bark.

Even if rabbits are not causing issues on your land and live on your property, you still have a legal obligation under the PestAct 1954 to control them or prevent them accessing your neighbours land if they start to cause issues on their property.

Summary It is widely accepted by farming organisations that poor weather conditions will have a detrimental effect on farming yields and economic returns. Poor weather also forces pests like rats and mice to seek shelter and new food sources, often within your farm buildings. In such situations, it is essential that we do not ignore the pest species that can compound this situation even further by damaging the remaining crop and silage that farmers have access to.

If you need help or support to protect your yields, ensure that you use a professional to make sure that pest control measures are suitable, cost effective, and ultimately, legal.

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| Pests

Contact an accredited pest controller in your area

LINCOLNSHIRE Aveland Pest Solutions Ltd Brierley Cottage Stables, Sempringham, Sleaford, Lincolnshire NG34 0LU T: 01529 241159 M: 07889 403538 E: pests@avelandsolutions.co.uk W: www.avelandpestsolutions.co.uk “Integrated pest management for a healthier environment”

EAST ANGLIA Command Pest Control Church Lane, Preston St Mary, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 9NQ T: 01787 248049 E: sales@commandpestcontrol.co.uk W: www.commandpestcontro;.co.uk “Quality without compromise since 1986”

CAMBRIDGESHIRE DRE Pest Control 19 Wallmans Lane, Swavesey, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire CB24 4QY T: 01954 230708 M: 07836 245670 E: info@drepestcontrol.co.uk W: www.drepestcontrol.co.uk “A local family company since 1974”

Agricultural Buildings Show 2014 The Agricultural Buildings Show takes place this year at the Epic Centre, Lincolnshire Showground, Grange-de-lings, Lincoln on Thursday 3rd April, 2014. his unique event provides the farmer with a practical insight into the planning, design and construction of all kinds of installations from the simplest barn through to a complete new grain store or milking parlour.

Investing in buildings is one of the most significant and long lasting decisions a farmer will make, with the results being a vital factor in the success or otherwise of the business in the years to come. The Agricultural Building Show has been set up to act as reference point covering all facets of farm buildings. Its aim is to bring together farmers and the trade under one roof to discuss the best possible solutions for the farm business.

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The show is organised in association with Rural & Industrial Design and Building Association (RIDBA), which has detailed knowledge of the function and environmental requirements of modern agriculture and industrial buildings.

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“A new farm building – for housing stock, grain storage or a milking parlour – is probably the largest investment a farm is likely to make in a generation,” says Andy Newbold of show organiser, FarmSmart Events. “As severe weather in past winters has shown, it is vital to ensure the structure is designed and built to the correct standards using qualified and reputable contactors. These are the companies that exhibit at the event.”

Alongside a trade exhibition will be a seminar programme, where visitors can also learn about the latest building and planning issues, as well as hear about the practical aspects of managing a project from start to finish. This year’s planned presentations will include Alexander Creed from Strutt & Parker who will talk through the benefits of designing your farm buildings with solar in mind as well as a presentation on the new CE marking legislation due to come in to effect in July this year.

The show is organised in association with Rural & Industrial Design and Building Association (RIDBA), which has detailed knowledge of the function and environmental requirements of modern agriculture and

industrial buildings. Its members, many of whom will be at the event, offer a breadth of expertise about the siting, planning, design and construction of farm buildings. This expertise also extends to conversion for diversification and other rural building design issues.

Agricultural Building Show Event Facts: Date: Thursday 3rd April 2014 Address: Epic Centre, Lincolnshire Showground, Grange-de-lings, Lincoln LN2 2NA Tickets: £10 if booked in advance (£15 on the door) Telephone: 0845 4900 142 Web: www.farm-smart.co.uk/abs/booking

March 2014 | Farming Monthly | 27

| Buildings

Farmers warned by RIDBA to respect the CE Mark After July 1st farmers need to be extra vigilant about their new buildings, according to RIDBA. new regulation which could have far-reaching effects on the way farmers source new buildings is now less than five months away from coming into force.

CE Marking is not currently compulsory in the UK but after July 1st it will become a criminal offence, punishable by a prison sentence, for a steel framed building, which most agricultural buildings are, to be supplied without this mark.

It demonstrates, among other things, that the building is fit for purpose under BS EN 1090 Part 2 ‘Execution of Steel Structures and Aluminium Structures’. And in recent winters it appears many farm buildings may not have been fit for purpose, collapsing under the weight of snow because they were either not correctly designed or fabricated, luckily harming noone.

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One way that farmers can ensure the new buildings they are investing in are correctly designed and fabricated to CE Marking standards, and that lack of CE Marking does not impact on their deposit or insurance should anything go wrong, is by engaging a steel-framed building manufacturer member of RIDBA, the Rural and Industrial Design and Building Association.

RIDBA’s 120 members have been helped to meet the new regulation by being given preferential access to guidance manuals and training which has markedly reduced their costs in meeting the requirements, costs which they could have chosen to pass onto their client, the farmer.

More information on CE Marking is available in RIDBA’s new Farm Buildings Handbook, which is available at the reduced price of £10 in the run-up to CE Marking, or via www.ridba.org.uk.

RIDBA members supply over 65% of the UK agricultural market and over 15% of the total singlestorey steel-framed market. They erect more than 6,000 agricultural and industrial buildings a year and supply an area of over 4million²m of steel-framed agricultural and industrial buildings.

CE Marking is not currently compulsory in the UK but after July 1st it will become a criminal offence, punishable by a prison sentence, for a steel framed building, which most agricultural buildings are, to be supplied without this mark.

CE Marking imminent!

28 | Farming Monthly | March 2014

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| Buildings

Shufflebottom for security and strength The Agricultural Buildings Show is a great opportunity to visit the Shufflebottom stand to investigate the options for a new building on your farm.

JFC hutches: giving youngstock the best start Subheader he use of hutches has become a proven method of rearing calves. JFC Hutches have the added benefit of being easy to move, ensuring your calves have the best start in life whatever the weather throws at us.

Calves reared outdoors in Hutches, thrive on individual attention and receive individual feeds which can be monitored

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more effectively.

Natural outdoor ventilation eliminates the spread of viruses and infections such as Pneumonia and scours, so you will benefit from bigger, healthier calves at weaning, and improve an animal’s future productivity while reducing veterinary/drug costs and calf mortality. See the full range at www.jfcuk.com

Ideal ffor or emer emergency gency housing

Supporting Farmers with Innovative Solutions

hufflebottom, the first UK maker of steel-framed buildings for agriculture to achieve the European CE Mark, specialises in designing and manufacturing buildings to improve the efficiency of farm businesses.

“We have long relationships with many customers,” said director Alex Shufflebottom, who is the 2013-15 chair of RIDBA, the Rural and Industrial Design and Building Association.

“Gascoigne Farms, one of our customers in Scotland, have just ordered their eleventh building in eight years.”

For arable farmers S F and S W Stevenson, near Sudbury, Suffolk, their third Shufflebottom, a farm storage building, was

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chosen for its security features, strength and durability.

A family-controlled business dating from 1986, and a finalist in the 2014 Construction News Specialists Awards, Shufflebottom manufactures at Cross Hands near Llanelli in south Wales, and designs buildings for all types of farming enterprise, from cattle housing to vegetable stores.

After the Agricultural Buildings Show, Shufflebottom will be at the British Pig and Poultry Fair (May 13-14), Cereals – The Arable Event (June 11-12), the Royal Highland Show (June 1922), Royal Norfolk Show (June 25-26) and the Royal Welsh Show (July 21-24).

Compact Calf Hutch ing method per calf space The most cost effective rearing Acco Accommodates mmodaates up to 4 calves Adjustable roof & rear vents ents for better ventila ventilation ation 2 lifting hooks on roof for ease of transport One piece moulding - no timber required 25 years experience providing quality hutches!

Dimensions: 1800 x 2000 x 1100mm

t: 01691 659226

SHUFFLEBO OTTOM SHUFFLEB SHUFFLEBOTTOM

e: e: info@jfcuk.com

w: www.jfcuk.com

First British maker of steel-framed farm buildings to receive the European mark

◆ Built for durability and security ◆ Nationwide construction service ◆ Full planning and design service ◆ Bespoke buildings ◆ ISO 9001 Registered company ◆ CHAS & RoSPA member ◆ Grain and crop stores ◆ Factories and industrial units ◆ Kit buildings and Erected buildings ◆ Equestrian buildings ◆ General purpose buildings ◆ Sheep housing ◆ Dairy and pig units

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T : 01269 831831 E : enquiry@shufflebottom.co.uk W : www.shufflebottom.co.uk March 2014 | Farming Monthly | 29

| Buildings

SMP makes life easy Unique, patented portable cubicle system takes the effort out of moving or adjustments. stablished in Dungannon, Co. Tyrone in 2001, SMP Concrete Products Ltd entered the agricultural precast market with a revolutionary portable cubicle system which has been developed over the last 13

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years to gain it prominence in today’s agri market place.

SMP have developed a unique cubicle bed whereby the entire cubicle steelwork, either for the portable cubicle or adjustable cubicle system can be easily installed and removed from the

Original Galebreaker Galebreaker has 30 years’ experience in manufacturing ventilation and weather protection products. he Bayscreen is the original Galebreaker designed as an alternative to traditional timber boarding. It is produced in the UK at our manufacturing site in Ledbury, Herefordshire and can be found on farms worldwide.

The Bayscreen fabric has been wind tunnel tested at both Farnborough Testing Facility and Cranfield University and, as a result, Galebreaker guarantees all of it’s system solutions, including the Bayscreen, up to wind speeds of 60mph (Beaufort Scale 10). The tensioning straps are fixed directly to the screen, enabling the Bayscreens to be fully secured and taught on the building. The Bayscreen is fully adjustable whilst maintaining tension in the screen which is critical for weather protection. Less fabric movement gives the screens longevity, and our confidence in the quality of the Bayscreen means that we offer a unique 10 year product and UV guarantee.

Bayscreens are offered in a standard range of sizes from 3m wide to 20m wide. Each are fully adjustable to suit any width of bay.

The screens come in four heights; 1m, 1.5m, 2m and 3m. If you have requirements outside of these standards, we have the expertise to offer a tailor-made solution. Our inhouse engineers undertake testing of both materials and webbing to

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concrete bed with minimal effort which now holds UK, Irish and European patents.

Over the past number of years the product range has increased to include cattle slats, cattle drinkers – ranging in size from 20 Gal right through to 400 Gallon, all rapid empty with rubber / silicone bungs, slurry channels, feed troughs, and blocks and the recent development of a double sided feed trough and a sand kerb for dairy farmers wishing to bed their cows with sand.

The sand kerb is designed to create a cubicle ‘heel stone‘ behind which sand can be placed to bed the cow. The kerb is uniquely shaped to reduce the risk of the animal pushing forward

while lying in the bed, while also maintaining minimum sand spillage from the bed.

The kerb is easily fitted to an existing concrete floor or foundation by simply bedding it with sand or mortar and bolting down through the recessed holes in the kerb.

The new double sided feed trough / bunker is unique to SMP as the removable post system from the portable cubicle bed (patented), has been adapted to create a removable post in the trough to which a feed rail can be easily fixed.

For further information on our products please visit our website www.smpconcrete.co.uk or email accounts@smpconcrete.co.uk

ensure we offer the strongest solution possible. In fact the Bayscreen has been tested to a massive 1497kg breaking strain.

Galebreaker’s standard material, which is used widely on Bayscreens has proven to be three times as efficient in allowing fresh air into a building compared to traditional timber cladding. It also provides outstanding weather protection and allows plenty of light into the building, ensuring that your livestock have the best environment to thrive in. The hook and ratchet system used by Galebreaker for attaching the Bayscreen makes it simple and quick to install, and offers the flexibility to open up the bays during the hottest months of the year.

Goat farmer Charlie Whitehouse has a wide range of Galebreaker Products.

“Galebreaker really understand our farm requirements and are able to offer the best solution to protect our livestock in all weathers. The Bayscreen is a strong and flexible product which offers superb value for money. It’s the tension in the Galebreaker system that sets it apart. It’s clearly built to last.”

If you would like to discuss your own requirements further, please call the Galebreaker sales office on 01531 637900

30 | Farming Monthly | March 2014

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| Silage

Timing advice for growth enhancer for grassland Enhancing the growth rate of grassland in the spring so that stock turnout or cutting for silage can be brought forward would be a key objective for many grassland farmers. martGrass, a patented formulation of gibberellic acid, has been proven to enhance the growth rate of grass in the early spring, but its spray window is fast approaching and it is important to apply it at the right time in order to get the maximum benefit.

Stewart Woodhead, Technical Manager for Interfarm, explains that the spray window for SmartGrass is usually between mid-March to mid-April, depending on geography and weather patterns. “SmartGrass is applied at 20 g/ha as a conventional spray to grass leys for stock grazing or silage. It works on all grass species and both grass leys for stock grazing or silage are suitable for treatment. But it must be applied at the right time, which is at the start of active spring growth, when grass is between 10 and 15 cms. Air temperatures should be warming and likely to remain warm for 7 days.”

He emphasises that the sward must be of good quality, good fertility and adequate moisture in order to support the extra growth that SmartGrass will bring. “SmartGrass should not be used too late or if crops are suffering from saturated soils, pests or diseases or other stress factors. It is not a miracle cure.

Response from a good quality sward will always be far higher than from a poorer sward.

Nor is it a substitute for fertiliser – swards should have adequate nutrient supply to support the extra growth anticipated.”

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Stewart explains that SmartGrass accelerates the growth rate of grassland for about a 6 week period. “Gibberellic acid increases plant cell expansion and numbers, resulting in leaf and stem elongation. What you see is taller, lusher grass and increased dry matter per hectare, enabling earlier use of grassland for grazing or for cutting for hay or silage production. By bringing timing of the 1st cut forward, your second cut can also be earlier, bringing the whole season forward and maximising yield and quality during the spring peak in grass growth.”

The use of SmartGrass also helps with planning feedstuffs at turnout. Increased pasture production reduces the need for supplementary feeding, which can be expensive, says Stewart. “Treated grass has the same nutritional qualities as untreated grass.”

He warns that once rapid growth has started, grass produces enough of its own gibberellins and the opportunity to advance growth further will have passed. First year leys are naturally vigorous and may not give the best response.

Developed by Valent BioSciences Corporation, part of Sumitomo Chemical Company, SmartGrass is already used successfully in Australia, New Zealand, the USA and Chile. “Its UK registration follows three years development work across UK and relevant European countries,” says Stewart

Gibberellic acid increases plant cell expansion and numbers, resulting in leaf and stem elongation Woodhead.

For further comment and information, please contact Stewart Woodhead, Technical Manager, Interfarm UK Ltd. on 01354 741414 or 07818 036506 (mobile).

March 2014 | Farming Monthly | 31

| Fencing

JFG: Better together An exclusive new group offers farmers quick and easy access to quality . products along with preferential prices, special offers and free delivery

he new Jacksons Farmers Group – JFG –offers a monthly account as well as a host of other benefits.

The idea is that farmers can drop in and collect what they need when they need it, settling their account at a later date.

Kent fencing specialist Jacksons also believes that setting up a special group for farmers will help convey their ethos of providing high quality products that deliver lasting value and a low lifetime cost.

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The company last year published the Definitive Guide to Timber Treatment, which Jacksons created as a helpful, no-nonsense guide to the dos and don’ts of timber treatment, covering everything from timber types and pressure treatment to kiln drying and responsible sourcing.

The company’s ‘long term’ approach to fencing is supported

by Jacksons’ unique Jakcure 25year guarantee on all products.

The company, which will be talking to farmers about the benefits of joining JFG at Agri-

32 | Farming Monthly | March 2014

fencing

Expo, has also introduced five agricultural kits that are available to all farmers.

By buying the items as a kit rather than individually at retail prices, farmers can make savings in line with the best discounts applied for the JFG. Examples include a 3.6m universal gate hanging kit including posts and galvanised fittings for £172.35 instead of £252.35 and a 500m rabbit netting kit using machine round Jakcured stakes for £932.21, almost £200 below the retail price of £1,116.60

The company’s ‘long term’ approach to fencing is supported by Jacksons’ unique Jakcure 25-year guarantee on all products. (all excluding VAT and delivery).

For those unable to visit the Agri Expo show, details of how to apply to join the Jacksons Farmers Group and the agricultural kits can be found online at: jacksonsfencing.co.uk/farmers or call 01233 750393.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Fencing

Zedlock launches latest development of its gate lock Following the introduction of the Zedlock gate lock in November 2011, the manufacturer has now introduced a range of enhancements to the product, including new handle options and bespoke sizes. he Zedlock was introduced when its creator realised there was no credible alternative to a padlock and chain for large gates.

The primary requirement was the long ‘throw’ sliding bolt which would still engage into the gate post when the gap between gate and post was up to two inches. The Zedlock was designed with a unique 2.75”/70mm of movement, making it ideal for large gates.

One of Zedlocks’ customers is Hartpury College in Gloucestershire. Farm Manager, Peter Lord, contacted Zedlock when seeking a more practical alternative to high security padlocks and chains.

The Zedlocks were fitted by the Estates Craftsperson, Dave Buck, who found fitting them straightforward, commenting: ‘to be honest, the better quality the gate the easier they are to fit’. Not only does the ease of use appeal to Hartpury, but because the locks are fitted to the gate, they can’t be lost – a recurring problem with the £110 padlock & chain

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combination. Peter is planning to roll out Zedlocks across further areas of the college estate.

Product Development Whilst the Union lock mechanism remains unchanged, the sliding bolt now has a fluted design which improves the action.

At the closing end, a bevelled cut helps align the sliding bolt into the gate post.

The 4mm steel lock case is now Zinc Iron coated, with the option of a black powder coat finish.

Zedlock are now also offering an Industrial range – Zedlocks to suit frames from 10mm to 80mm diameter can supplied from stock, and specials to suit gate frames of up to 150mm can be made to order. A T-handle, operated from the underside of the lock box, is ideal for sheeted gates. Double gate kits, hinge pin protectors and keying-alike (now performed inhouse) are all popular options.

About Zedlock was incorporated in 2011 and is based in Petworth, West Sussex. Managing Director, Bruce Robertson, originally designed the Zedlock (Patent No.

GB2489293) as a secure and practical alternative to a padlock and chain. Since its introduction, further models and a range of accessories have been developed to widen the application of the lock. Zedlock Limited, The Barn, Strood Farm, Petworth, West Sussex, GU28 0JN. www.zedlock.com +44(0)1798 342251 sales@zedlock.com

Farm Manager, Peter Lord, contacted Zedlock when seeking a more practical alternative to high security padlocks and chains.

March 2014 | Farming Monthly | 33

| Security

Two key words – prevention and deterrent There’s no shying away from it, agri-crime is a continuing trend, and one that looks set to stay. Of those incidents that are reported, some are the work of opportunist thieves, whilst others are strategically planned by organised criminals and can have serious business consequences.

ike all trends, there are going are to be peaks and dips (see the NFU’s Mutual Rural Crime Survey for examples) but one thing will remain the same – and that’s the need for investment in security.

A well-planned security strategy will look at measures that are both preventative and act as a deterrent. The days of installing a single intruder alarm that isn’t monitored are sadly gone – if you think about it, by the time you are aware that the alarm is going off, valuable equipment could have been taken and you become just another statistic.

There are a host of reputable security providers that work closely with the farming

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community and looking at their websites they offer solutions ranging from simple access control to sophisticated integrated monitored systems. One such security provider is GBSG, who as a result of being based in the rural village of Donington, Lincolnshire understands the needs of the farming and horticultural sectors.

GBSG treat every site individually and before a security solution is proposed they will take into consideration the site’s location, the level of protection needed and the owner’s priorities.

For example, at peak times there might be a high level of casual staff accessing the site on a daily basis and a remotely monitored access control system might be the best solution,

34 | Farming Monthly | March 2014

whereby causal staff must provide their vehicles registration details to be allowed access. This element of

control reduces the risk of thieves posing as casual staff from entering the site.

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| Security

Security ideas Monitored alarms Security fencing

For more remote, unpopulated sites, a movement detection CCTV system might be the solution.

However, to be effective this system needs to be monitored; as there is no point reviewing CCTV footage after a theft has occurred.

Through monitoring, when a movement is detected, staff at the monitoring centre will receive an alert and can take instant action to see of this movement is a real threat, and if it is, they can take action by alerting the relevant authorities. Some security installers, including GBSG, will recommend that an audiochallenge system be installed with the CCTV, so that when the control room spot a threat they can give an audible warning saying that they are being recorded on CCTV

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and that the relevant authorities have been alerted.

GBSG – www.gbsg.co.uk / Tel 01775 821100

CCTV Access gates Heavy duty locks Vehicle tracking

A well-planned security strategy will look at measures that are both preventative and act as a deterrent. The days of installing a single intruder alarm that isn’t monitored are sadly gone – if you think about it, by the time you are aware that the alarm is going off, valuable equipment could have been taken and you become just another statistic.

March 2014 | Farming Monthly | 35

| Grain

On-farm grain sampling With the launch of its new Grain sampling guide, HGCA outlines the basics of good grain sampling. ccurate sampling tells you about the quality and condition of your grain. It is important at each stage of the supply chain because it can help reduce waste and ensure grain goes to the most appropriate end uses. Sampling may seem time-consuming, but paying attention will bring dividends.

Measuring key quality characteristics such as Hagberg Falling Number, nitrogen content and specific weight have been standard requirements for many years but recently, other challenges including mycotoxins have emerged. This serves to underpin the need to continually demonstrate due diligence.

For growers, keeping an eye on the quality coming off the combine is second nature but sampling in store and at dispatch allows growers to know more about the crop so it can be stored, sold and processed as efficiently as possible.

HGCA’s new Grain sampling guide lays out the basics of good sampling practice across the supply chain. The guide takes into account the latest industry protocols and puts them into a clear and concise format which explains not only how to sample but when to do it and why. This includes on-farm sampling and standard practice at commercial intake.

Sampling basics

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Grain is a variable commodity; the sources of variation are numerous including where it is grown, when it is harvested and how it is handled on farm. The aim of sampling on farm is to give a representative picture of a specific lot of grain such as a 30 tonne lorry or 100 tonne grain bin.

A sampling programme needs to take a number of small incremental samples from across the lot. This reduces variability and gives a more representative picture of the grain. The more samples taken, the closer the average will be to accurately reflecting any quality characteristic.

To make a representative sample, a number of small incremental samples are taken from different points in the lot of grain. These incremental samples are thoroughly mixed together to form an aggregate sample.

The final representative sample is taken from the aggregate sample.

Typically, two 1kg representative samples are taken from the aggregate sample; one is sent for analysis while the other is kept on farm as a record and a back-up. The flow chart below outlines this process. When following this method, the aggregate sample will usually weigh more than 2kg. Once you have all the representative samples you need, return the rest of the grain to the load.

HGCA has identified three key stages for sampling on farm; at harvest,

36 | Farming Monthly | March 2014

during storage and at out-take from the farm.

Know the harvested quality At harvest, sampling grain for moisture and temperature is essential to ensure it is dried and cooled to the right level for storage. Today, most farms use highly accurate sensors to do this, the only note of caution is to make sure sensors are annually calibrated and checked for accuracy.

For quality tests such as Hagberg falling number, specific weight or protein quality, samples taken as the grain goes into the store will be more representative than those taken from the bulk once the grain is in store. The only exception is for any contaminant produced during storage (eg insects or storage mycotoxins.

Taking samples at harvest is done either directly from the trailer or, for grain with high moisture levels, after it has passed through a drier. Page 9 of the HGCA Grain sampling guide explains how to take samples of grain as it comes into stores.

If you use a sampling spear to sample large bulks of grain, it is important to remember that it cannot reach more than 2m into the bulk so it is less likely to be representative.

Protect the harvested quality During storage, grain is still a living crop and, if not stored correctly, is susceptible to infection by moulds and infestation by pests. Keeping an eye on the temperature and moisture as well as checking for moulds and insects will make sure you can take action before your grain is damaged. Full details of how to do this can be found in the Grain Sampling Guide and HGCA’s Grain Storage Guide.

Provided the grain is stored well, key

quality parameters should not change significantly in store. Therefore, effective monitoring of your stored grain allows you to market your grain with confidence.

Know what leaves the farm Dispatching grain to the processor, merchant or other end-user represents the last stage of a year’s hard work.

Taking a representative sample of the grain as it is loaded onto lorries prior to dispatch helps ensure you get the best return for your work. The sample is a record of what is on the lorry and greatly reduces the possibility of disagreements between grower and buyer over the delivered quality. In addition, a number of farm assurance schemes require this sample to be available.

HGCA’s Cereal sellers’ checklist and Oilseed sellers’ checklist has useful additional information to help you when marketing and selling grain.

When loading, there are a number of ways to sample depending on the equipment available on farm. With loading buckets you can take an incremental sample by hand from every bucket before it is put on the lorry, however, this does require the presence of a second person.

Automatic bucket samplers are a safe and convenient way to sample and mean you do not need a second person, so they are particularly useful for people working alone – see page 13 of the HGCA Grain sampling guide for more details. If grain is loaded using a conveying system, locate a safe place to draw off samples close to the final loading location.

Come and speak to grain sampling specialists and get your copy of the guide at stand 1G at UK Grain.

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| LAMMA

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March 2014 | Farming Monthly | 37

| LAMMA

Featured Dealers: Sharnford Tractors Ltd Lutterworth, Leics LE17 5EH T: 01455 209300 www.manitou.co.uk Ravenhill Hereford HR4 9QJ T: 01432 352333 www.ravenhill.co.uk

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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

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| Machinery

Tractor dealer attracted by Thorworld wide ramp A bespoke three metre-wide mobile yard ramp from Thorworld Industries has improved loading efficiency and extended capability for tractor and plant dealer RJ & KD McLean Ltd. ith a growing UK customer base complemented by an expanding import/export business that has brought in orders from as far afield as Tasmania, the Dorsetbased, family-owned firm needed to invest in a new loading bay solution to meet demand.

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“We now have a superb piece of equipment that’s both practical and adjustable and has the capacity to take wide, heavy and normal loads.”

A critical requirement was the ability to cope with the diversity of trailers arriving from across Europe, as Henry McLean explains.

“We found that trucks from the UK often vary in height from those travelling from Germany or the Netherlands, so we set out to find a versatile solution that would enable us to load and unload whatever the style of trailer.”

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When RJ & KD McLean approached Thorworld, the company realised that the company’s needs matched those of a fellow customer for whom Thorworld had manufactured a bespoke wide ramp.

“Thorworld arranged for us to see the existing ramp in action, and it was immediately apparent that they could offer exactly the right width of ramp, adjustable design and quality of manufacture to fulfill its need,” confirms Henry McLean.

An equivalent ramp was duly manufactured and supplied to RJ & KD McLean and is already proving is worth across a variety of uses.

With an adjustable height, the ramp can be raised and lowered safely and with minimum effort, in order create the perfect loadinglevel for any size of truck, while the ramp’s 3-metre width ensures that operators can easily and safely unload a range of farm and plant vehicles.

Prior to purchasing the Thorworld ramp, the company

dealt with the intensity of its international custom using a selfconstructed loading ramp, which became increasingly unsuitable.

“The differences between the new Thorworld ramp and our previous solution just aren’t comparable,” Henry explains.

“We now have a superb piece of equipment that’s both practical and adjustable and has the capacity to take wide, heavy and normal loads.

“I can’t rate the ramp highly enough and would recommend this fantastic bit of equipment to anyone. I’d also like to recommend Thorworld’s customer service, but as our whole purchase ran so smoothly, I simply haven’t had the need to use it!”

“Having loaded over 170 foreign lorries plus many more UK lorries last year alone,, RJ & KD McLean requires ramp equipment that can take the weight of the load time and again,” concludes John Meale, Managing Director of

Thorworld Industries.

“We’re confident that the solution they’ve chosen from us will do just that.”

“We found that trucks from the UK often vary in height from those travelling from Germany or the Netherlands, so we set out to find a versatile solution that would enable us to load and unload whatever the style of trailer.”

For more information on Thorworld loading and unloading equipment and to obtain a copy of the latest Thorworld product catalogue contact: Thorworld Industries Ltd, Tel: 01246 260981, Email:info@thorworld.co.uk Web : www.thorworld.co.uk

March 2014 | Farming Monthly | 39

| Machinery

Widest pick-up on the market The VARIANT 385 – 360 range of variable round balers from CLAAS has been given several new features for the 2014 season. he variable chamber CLAAS VARIANT is ideal for baling hay, straw or silage, thanks to the freely selectable bale diameter and a higher level of compaction in comparison with fixed chamber systems.

For 2014, VARIANT 360, 365, 380 and 385 models will now be available with the new 2.35m wide XXL pick-up, giving it the widest pick-up on the market for round balers. By enabling the VARIANT to bale wider straw and grass swathes, this ensures that the high performance potential of the baler can be fully exploited.

However, the pick-up has not only been made wider; it has also been given automatic chain tensioning. This helps reduce maintenance time, so more time can be spent baling. The oil reservoir has also been enlarged from 3.0 litres to 6.3 litres and incorporates an integrated filter and continuous chain lubrication to again help reduce maintenance time. To ensure that the chains on the VARIANT are always provided with sufficient oil, the quantity of oil can now be adjusted according to requirement. In addition, a central lubrication system is also optionally available on the VARIANT 385 – 360, with all lubrication points centrally supplied with oil via two central lubrication blocks.

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For 2014, VARIANT 360, 365, 380 and 385 models will now be available with the new 2.35m wide XXL pick-up, giving it the widest pick-up on the market for round balers.

In addition, the hydraulic performance of the balers has also been increased, so the bale discharge is now completed within just 6 seconds, with the result that the process of opening and closing the tailgate (without tying time) is now 30% quicker than with the old models.

As an option, VARIANT balers can also be fitted with the moisture sensor from the QUADRANT range. Integrated into the left-hand side of the tailgate, the crop moisture content is displayed on the CLAAS COMMUNICATOR 2 terminal, which is used operate and monitor the entire work process from the cab.

40 | Farming Monthly | March 2014

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| LAMMA

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March 2014 | Farming Monthly | 41

| Tractors & Tyres

Discover AGCO event proves a big hit Event proves successful for everyone involved as new Farming Monthly team member, Jessica Hopper explains... he Discover AGCO event was never before seen, and with the international status of their brands, it was highly anticipated by all; including the customers, dealers, AGCO themselves, and just about anyone in the agricultural industry.

We found out about the event not that long before it was taking place, however from the response the dealers were giving, it seemed like a big deal – and we didn't want to miss out.

Upon entry to the event, the different sections separated by curtains and dedicated to each brand made it feel like we were going on a space-themed roller-coaster ride with all of the mood lighting and, after emerging from the strands of hanging fabric to a bustling hall of people intertwined with tractors, harvesters, balers, and an array of equipment, we didn't know where to begin...

The newest range to join the Challenger family is the E Series. With tractors that generate more power, save more fuel, deliver superior traction and importantly offer greater comfort, the 700E and 800E are the highest performance tracked tractors ever built. They boast an AGCO POWER™ 7-cylinder 431 max hp engine, in addition to superior hydraulics, optimum operator comfort and power-to-theground Mobil-Trac™ technology. You want serious results? You need serious machinery.

Advancing from the Challenger stand was a larger area dedicated to Fendt. Their new highhorsepower tractors boast a package of bundled expertise in terms of power transmission, electronics, efficiency and robustness. This includes new engine technology with twin turbochargers, SCR and passive diesel particulate filter, VarioGuide,

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42 | Farming Monthly | March 2014

SectionControl and AGCOMMAND telemetry system. To complete this rather impressive package, there is also Fendt's 5 year 6000 hour optional manufacturers warranty.

Moving on from the Fendt stand was a colourful display put on by Valtra, promoting something a little different to the others. Valtra's T163e EcoPower tractors offer two tractors in one at the flick of a switch. You have the option to choose between two different engine settings and see the difference in your tank and your pocket. What more could you want? The engine settings are either Eco or Standard, with fuel consumption reduced by a further 10% and an increased engine lifespan as well as this.

By far the largest section and most impressive array of machinery was dedicated to Massey Ferguson. Visitors had the chance to get 'up close and personal' to the most powerful MF tractor on the market. It's features include a new 6 cylinder 8.4L AGCO POWER Emission Complaint – Stage 4 Engine, up to 400 hp with their power management, increasing the amount of engine power that is available, boosting productivity in the field and on the road, clutchless operation thanks to Dyna-VT transmission, continuously variable working speeds from 0.03kph to 50kph with the unique Massey Ferguson Power Control Lever and Active Stop feature. Whatever you need – they have the full farming package.

If this wasn't already enough, Danagri-3S made an appearance alongside GSI promoting their grain, swine and poultry solutions. With more than 40 years of industry experience, GSI provides system solutions that enhance the productivity efficiency and profitability of your operation through grain storage, drying and material handling products. Danagri-3S are the

UK market leader in supplying the world renowned GSI range of equipment and we had the pleasure to meet the Marketing Director, Mark Unitt.

Shona and I were overwhelmed with how nice and welcoming the AGCO team were to us, and were delighted to meet some of the By far the largest section and most impressive array of machinery was dedicated to Massey Ferguson.

dealers we converse with often, including Keith and Trevor from Keith Davies Agricultural, Andrew from H Curtis and Sons, and Gavin and Martin from Chandler's – the most recently appointed Valtra dealer. All in all, it was a great event and we really do hope it becomes an annual event. What did you think? Tweet us at twitter.com/farmingmonthly

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| LAMMA

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March 2014 | Farming Monthly | 43

| Tractors & Tyres

John Deere introduces new 7R Series tractors John Deere’s new 7R Series tractors, available from January 2014, feature more powerful engines, a new transmission and a new top of the range model. he line-up will consist of six models delivering 210, 230, 250, 270, 290 and 310hp at rated engine speed. The flagship 7310R will be available in limited numbers from spring 2014 and will feature a new Stage IV compliant engine, while the other models will be powered by John Deere’s proven diesel-only engines.

New technology allows the 7230R’s former 9-litre engine to be replaced by a 6.8-litre unit, while still maintaining the same high maximum torque, torque rise and power bulge as before. The change to a smaller engine also increases the power density and reduces this tractor’s operating costs.

For transport and pto applications, the engines’ intelligent power management (IPM) system provides an extra 22hp on the 7290R and an extra 30hp on all other models. The range is expected to deliver two per cent better fuel efficiency overall.

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The line-up will consist of six models delivering 210, 230, 250, 270, 290 and 310hp at rated engine speed.

John Deere Stage IV engines are the latest development in the company’s building block approach to meeting emissions regulations. As a final step, John Deere has added a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system to its diesel-only engines and increased the fuel pressure to achieve more thorough combustion.

Even with the addition of SCR,

John Deere aims to reduce total fluid consumption to even lower levels than at present. However, the company will continue to offer improved Stage III B compliant diesel-only engines on both 7R and 8R Series tractors.

A CommandQuad transmission is available on the 7210R and 7230R models, and there is also a choice of e23 (late 2014) or AutoPowr transmissions across the whole model range.

AutoPowr’s ‘pedal mode’ enables the operator to change the ground speed while operating pto-driven equipment that demands constant engine rpm.

The newly designed, fully automatic e23 transmission offers 23 equally spaced power shiftable forward gears and 11 reverse, and is equipped with Efficiency Manager. This allows the operator to preset the working speed, and helps to save fuel by keeping the engine rpm at an optimum speed by automatically shifting up and throttling back.

A new CommandArm console is standard on all 7R Series tractors and replaces the right-hand console of previous models.

Featuring a more intuitive and ergonomic layout, the CommandArm groups the tractor controls by function and integrates completely with the new CommandCentre, which features a new interface and is available with either a 7 or 10in touchscreen display.

The new CommandView III Cab has a 40 degree swivel seat with back rest extension, and customers may choose between a standard air spring seat, the fieldproven ActiveSeat or hydraulic cab suspension (HCS) for extra driving comfort. The cab also features laminated glass for safety and a quiet operating environment, and

44 | Farming Monthly | March 2014

a refrigerator for storing food and drinks.

Integrated systems enable the use of John Deere’s FarmSight precision farming technology, and a hydraulic joystick with gear shift is available for the CommandQuad and e23 transmissions. Other options include a 360 degree LED lighting package and full coverage front and rear fenders.

New technology allows the 7230R’s former 9-litre engine to be replaced by a 6.8-litre unit, while still maintaining the same high maximum torque, torque rise and power bulge as before.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Grain

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March 2014 | Farming Monthly | 45

| Tractors & Tyres

Growth strategy sees acquisition of JG Plant

by Inscapes Inscapes, the Bridgend based sports ground engineering and commercial landscaping organisation, has acquired New Holland dealership JG Plant Ltd as a part of its growth and development strategy.

G Plant, which is also based in Bridgend, is a well established sales, hire and servicing company for new and second hand tractor and plant machinery. The company was due to close through retirement by the current owner Terry Coles.

Inscapes, which already had a close working relationship with JG Plant, seized the opportunity to acquire the company recognising the huge benefits of the amalgation. These include shared overheads, consolidation of an experienced sales force, penetration into new markets and cost savings in terms of intercompany plant and equipment hire.

J

“It’s been a tough time recently for farmers, so it’s good news that the support offered by a local New Holland dealership will still be there. Gareth’s plans for growth are very exciting and I’d like to warmly welcome him to the New Holland dealer network.”

The acquisition allows the creation of 7 new jobs at JG Plant, with the combined operation now employing more than 25 local people. The new organisation will be based at JG Plant’s current location adjacent to Inscape’s premises in the Brackla Industrial

Estate.

Gareth Rees, Inscapes Managing Director, commented “We’ve been working with JG Plant for more than 15 years. When we found out that the company was planning to close, we recognised an opportunity that we couldn’t let go, particularly as we have an ever increasing demand for plant and machinery hire to carry out our own core activities at key UK locations.

“JG Plant has a client base of more than 2,000 customers which include farmers, local authorities, sports venues and construction and ground works companies. In short, our key target market and we already share a number of key customers; so it was a logical step to bring the two companies together. We will be basing our future operations from JG Plant’s current showroom and stores in order improve the customer experience for our mutual client base.”

Inscapes is planning to put in place a pro-active growth strategy to develop both businesses, with a projected turnover of more than £4 million over the next 12 months.

Adds Terry Coles, owner of JG Plant, “The Company was originally established in 1964 and we will be celebrating our 50 year anniversary in March 2014. Over the years, we have developed a reputation for delivering top brands with the highest standards of service. As a result, we have become a valued supplier of leading brands such as New Holland and Honda.

“When Inscapes approached us

46 | Farming Monthly | March 2014

Terry Coles shows Gareth Rees around a New Holland Tractor

regarding the acquisition we were delighted; not only did it mean that the JG Plant business would carry on into the future but also that new jobs would be created and our client base would continue to be serviced to the same standards as we have delivered over the years.”

New Holland Sales Area Manager Nigel Fawdry added: “The arrival of Gareth Rees will come as a great relief to JG Plant’s loyal customers who have appreciated its excellent service over the years.

“It’s been a tough time recently for farmers, so it’s good news that the support offered by a local New Holland dealership will still be there. Gareth’s plans for growth are very exciting and I’d like to warmly welcome him to the New Holland dealer network.”

News of the acquisition has been welcomed by both companies’ clients and in particular the farming community across the region that has relied on JG Plant’s services and access to high quality tractors.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Arable

Combines CaseIH 9120 with 35’ header & trailer, 2010, Full GPS. Auto Steering & Mapping.

CaseIH 9230 with 35’ header & trailer, 2012, 175 Rotor hours, Pro 700 screen, Air kit, CaseIH Warranty for 2013 season & subsidised CaseIH finance subject to terms & conditions.

CaseIH 7230 with 30’ header, 62 drum hours, Guidance ready, Pro 700 screen, CaseIH Subsidised Finance.

CaseIH 7120 Four Wheel Drive, 24’ header, 2009, 720 Rotor hours.

CaseIH 5130 with 20’ Vario header, CaseIH Warranty, CaseIH subsidised finance available subject to terms & conditions.

CaseIH 2166, 18’ header / trolly, 2140 hours.

John Deere 9780 CTS Hillmaster, 2002, 22’ header & trolly, chopper & Chaff spreaders.

New Holland TC56 c/w 15’ header / trolly, chopper, 2082 hours.

New Holland CSX 7080 c/w 20’ header / trolly, approx 800 hours.

Tractors 895 Stockman Special, one owner, genuine 2860 hours.

885L 4wd c/w Quicke loader, 4600 hours, one owner.

Maxxum 5130 Plus Synchro, 8000 hours, very clean.

Quantum 65c two wheel drive, 2010, 3771 hours, front weights.

Farmall 75c 4wd. 2013, only 40 hours, just like new.

JXU 75 4wd. 2012, 590 hours, 16.9 x 34 tyres, 40kph. weights.

JXU 1080 4wd. 3053 hours, 2004, Turf or Ag tyres.

NEW Farmall 55 two wheel drive, Roll bar, CaseIH Finance Package.

NEW JXU105 4wd 24x24 Power Shuttle & PowerShift, 540/1000 pto. 16.9 x 34 tyres, air seat, air conditioned cab, twin assistor rams, front mudguards & weights. CaseIH Finance Package.

Maxxum 125 Suspension c/w LRZ loader, 2009, 2920 hours.

Maxxum 125 EP c/w Quicke loader, 2012, 887 hours.

Maxxum 125 c/w Loader, 2011, 1562 hours.

NEW Maxxum 110 EP Cab Suspension3 speed PTO. large hyd. pump. CaseIH Subsidised Finance package subject to terms & conditions.

NEW Maxxum 115 EP Cab Suspension3 speed PTO. large hyd. pump. CaseIH Subsidised Finance package subject to terms & conditions.

NEW Maxxum 125 EP. 17x16 gearbox, Suspension, 540/1000 pto. air conditioned cab, 520/70 x 38 tyres, boosts to 165hp.

CVX150 Suspension, 2009, 2900 hours, 650/65 x 38 tyres.

CVX1155 Suspension, 2004, 3338 hours, 460/85 x 38 tyres.

CVX160 Suspension, 2011, 2369 hours, 650/65 x 38 tyres, 50kph.

CVX175 Suspension, 2009, 2578 hours, 50kph. trailer air brakes.

CVX195 Suspension, 2009, 4297 hours, 650/65 x 42 tyres.

Puma 125 Suspension c/w LRX150 loader, 2011, 2423 hours.

Puma 140 MC, 2010, 553 hours, Pro 300 Screen, 3 spd.pto.

Puma 140 Semi Powershift, 2011, 570 hours, 40kph.

Puma 140 Powershift, suspension, 2010, 700 hours, 40kph.

Puma 145 EP. 2012, 800 hours, 600/65 x 38 tyres, 40kph. trailer air brakes.

Puma 155 2009, 2611 hours, Powershift 40kph.

650/65 x 38 tyres.

Puma 155 PowerShift, 2008, 5000 hours, Front Linkage, 50kph + Creep.

Puma 160 EP Suspension 40kph. 2012, 1318 hours, 600/65 x 38 tyres Puma 180 Suspension, 2012, 560 hours, 650/65 x 42 tyres, 50kph.

Puma 180 PowerShift Suspension 50kph. 2011, 2554 hours, 650/65 x 42 tyres.

Puma 195 MultiController, 2008, 976 hours, AFS Pro 200 screen.

Puma 210, 2010, 4183 hours, Front Linkage, 620/70 x 42 tyres.

Puma 215 Suspension 50kph. 2013, 220 hours, 650/65 x 42 tyres.

Puma 215 Suspension 40kph. 2013, 253 hours, trailer air brakes.

Puma 215 Suspension 40kph. 2013, 500 hours, trailer air brakes.

Puma CVX 160 Suspension 50kph. 2012, 950 hours, 650/65 x 42 tyres.

Puma CVX 160 Suspension 50kph. 2012, 931 hours, 650/65 x 42 tyres.

Puma CVX 160 Suspension 50kph. 2011, 1975 hours, 580/70 x 38 tyres.

Puma CVX 160 Suspension 50kph. trailer air brakes, 2012, 272 hours.

Puma CVX 180 Suspension 50kph. Front Linkage, 2010, 2524 hours.

Puma CVX 195 Full Accuguide 2010, 4770 hours, 50kph. trailer air brakes.

Puma CVX 210 Front linkage, 2011, 2780 hours, 650/65 x 42 tyres.

Puma CVX 230 c/w Front Linkage, 2013, 650/65 x 42 tyres, Premium pack.

Magnum 225 Suspension, 2007, 2361 hours, 50kph.

Magnum 225 Suspension, 2011, 3120 hours.

Magnum 270, year 2000, 4760 hours, 710.70 x 42 tyres.

Magnum 285 Suspension 40kph. 2770 hrs.

2004, 710/70 x 42 Michelin.

Magnum 230, 2003, 5120 hours, 650/85 x 38 tyres, front weights.

Magnum 260, 2011, 1795 hours, Full Accuguide, air brakes.

Magnum 310 Suspension 40kph + Creep gears, 2010, 1480 hours.

Magnum 310 FULL GPS, 2011, 2255 hours, 710/70 x 42 tyres.

Magnum 310 Suspension, 2010, 2632 hours,

800/70 x 38 tyres.

Magnum 340 Suspension 50kph. weights, 2011, 588 hours.

Magnum 340 Suspension 50kph. 2011, 1746 hours, Front Linkage.

Magnum 340 Suspension, 2012, 747 hours, Full Accuguide, 710/70 x 42 tyres.

NEW Magnum 340 Anniversary model, Silver & Red livery.

Massey Ferguson 399 4wd 12x12 Shuttle, 1992, 5185 hours, 16.9 x 38 tyres.

4455 4wd 12x12 Shuttle, air conditioned cab, front weights, 2005, 3534 hours.

6170 Dynashift 4wd. 5456 hours, passenger seat, 18.4 x 38 tyres.

6455 Dyna 6 c/w Front Linkage, 2006, 825 hours, air conditioned cab.

Ford / New Holland TD75D 4wd 12x12 Shuttle, 2003, 4238 hours, air cond.cab.

TL 80 two wheel drive, 2002, 5190 hours, 12x12 Shuttle.

TL 90 4wd PowerShift & PowerShuttle, air conditioned cab, 2003.

TL 90 4wd Row Crops, Front Linkage, air conditioned cab, 3 speed pto. 2006, 4663 hours.

TS100 Plus 4wd Row Crops, 40kph. 3 speeed pto. 3845 hours, 2007.

TM175 c/w Front Linkage, Suspension 40kph.

2005, 5933 hours.

T6010 Delta 24x24 PowerShuttle & PowerShift, 2008, 1845 hours, passenger seat.

T6070 Range Command, 40kph Eco, 2010, 1335 hours, Creep gears, 650/65 x 38 tyres.

T7040 Power Command Suspension 50kph & Creep gears, 2008, 5800 hours.

T7060 Suspension c/w front Linkage, 650/65 x 38 tyres, 2008, 3826 hours.

T7070 Auto Command c/w Front Linkage, 40kph. 2010, 2087 hours.

T7220 Suspension, 19 speed, 2011, 2373 hours, trailer air brakes.

Other Makes McCormick MTX140 c/w Front Linkage, 2004, 6200 hours.

McCormick CX85 Xtrashift c/w Quicke loader, 2004, 2368 hours.

Kubota M9540 - 4wd. 2009, 900 hours, one owner.

Fiat 100-90DT, 1992, 7641 hours, good tyres, front weights, nice tractor.

Claas Ares 826 c/w front Linkage, 2347 hours, air conditioned cab, 20.8 x 42 tyres.

Deutz Agrotron M620 Suspension 50kph & Creep, 1150 hours, trailer air brakes.

Renault Ceres 436 4wd c/w Chillton Loader, 2003, 5900 hours.

John Deere 5620 4wd PowerQuad c/w front linkage & pto.

2007, only 1430 hours.

6320 c/w Front Linkage, 2004, 4320 hours, 18.4 x 38 tyres.

7530 Premium TLS 50kph. trailer air brakes, 710/70 x 38 Michelin.

Website with photographs : www.startintractors.co.uk Finance offered subject to terms & conditions.

Cambridge: 01223 835222 Swansea: 01792 310031 Penrith: 01768 210055 March 2014 | Farming Monthly | 47

Contact a local operator:

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Telescopic Handlers & Forklifts JCB 525-67 Farm Special Plus, one owner, very straight.

JCB 526 - 56 Agri PowerShift, 2009, 2500 hours, Q fit carriage, air conditioned cab.

JCB 528-70 Telescopic, year 2000, 2160 hours, PowerShuttle, Ex Water Authority.

Manitou 420 Buggiescopic, 4200 hours.

JCB 926 masted forklift, cab, showing 3142 hours.

Hedgecutters & Grass Mowers McConnel PA55, 1.2m head, XTC controls, 2008.

McConnel PA55 RightHand, 2008, 1.2m head, SwitchBox controls.

McConnel PA6570T, Linkage mounted, 2011, 428 hours, Revolution controls.

NEW McConnel 6570T, 1.5m head, Revolution controls, Linkage mounted.

NEW McConnel 5455, 1.2m head, XTC controls, linkage mounted.

McConnel 2.7 Elite flail mower, rear roller, 2008.

Plant JCB 2cx StreetMaster, Extenda Dig, 2006, rear breaker, good tyres.

Case 580 Super M, 2003, 8000 hours, buckets, pallet forks, ride Control.

Hitachi Zaxis 210 LC-3 excavator, reversing camera, breaker lines.

Case CX130 Excavator, year 2000, 6220 hours, breaker lines.

JCB 8008 Micro digger, roll bar, breaker lines, 1315 hours, buckets.

JCB 8035 ZTS excavator, 2007, 1750 hours, breaker lines, bucket.

JCB 8080 ZTS excavator, 2006, buckets.

JCB 8080 ZTS excavator, 2006, buckets.

JCB 8080 ZTS excavator, 2005, buckets.

Machinery Vaderstad CR300 Carrier, Linkage mounted, weights.

Quivogne 4m Tinemaster c/w Terracast V2 Seeder.

Quivogne 4.8m Tinemaster c/w V2 Seeder.

Simba 23c Hydraulic fold Discs.

Simba 3.8m SOLO 380, Scalloped Discs.

6 metre Roller, breaker rings, low use.

Vaderstad Concorde NZC 6 metre.

Twose 12.4m Hydraulic folding Roller.

Vaderstad 6m Drill, Rigid tines, Hydraulic fan.

McConnel 3m Discaerator, 7 leg.

AbbI 1000 Litre Fuel bowser.

Trailers A S Marston ACE 14 grain trailer, hydraulic door, air brakes, Super singles.

| Tractors & Tyres

Deutz-Fahr tractor range continues to excel The Deutz-Fahr tractor range has undergone some major developments – changes which not only introduce a new, modern styling but also instigate the latest technology in engine and transmission design.

SDF’s new flagship tractor – the 340hp 9340 which heads up the manufacturer’s 9 Series range.

aking pole position in the line-up is the new four-model 9 Series which, with the flagship 9340 rated at 340hp, takes the manufacturer into the high power zone.

Powered by 7.8 litre, twin turbo, sixcylinder Deutz engine having four valves per cylinder, there is an integrated electric control of the common rail fuel injection system.

This power is channelled through a TTV continuously variable transmission which, in transport mode allows a top speed of 40kph to be achieved at just 1350 rpm engine speed.

And then there is the award winning 7 Series – a three-model range which is equipped with six-cylinder, turbo-charged Deutz engines driving through TTV transmissions. The range

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48 | Farming Monthly | March 2014

topping 7250 is rated at 263hp.

The 6 Series offers a power range from 120hp to 190hp through use of four and sixcylinder, four valves/cylinder Deutz engines and, like the 7 and 9 Series, employs the electronically controlled Deutz Common Rail fuel injection system. With a choice of powershift or TTV transmissions, the 6 Series tractors offer a high degree of versatility for both for the arable and livestock sectors.

With a rated power of 95hp to 130hp, the new eight-model 5 Series range has been designed to combine high performance with fuel economy. The 3.6 litre, 4-cylinder Deutz engines use common rail fuel injection and use post engine exhaust gas treatment and External Gas Recirculation (EGR) to conform to

With a rated power of 95hp to 130hp, the new eight-model 5 Series range has been designed to combine high performance with fuel economy.

emission requirements. The 5 Series offers a choice of conventional, powershift or TTV transmissions.

In the 5, 6, 7 and 9 Series , Deutz-Fahr has produced a range of tractors which have been designed to meet the needs of the agricultural industry – from the large scale arable farmer to the smaller scale livestock farmer: stylish, comfortable to operate and above all, reliable.

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| Education

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March 2014 | Farming Monthly | 49

| Tractors & Tyres

MF Tractors and Planter scoop awards at key Central European farm machinery shows Honours have gone to Massey Ferguson farm equipment at AGROmashExpo in Hungary and the Polagra-Premiery International Fair in Poland.

A Gold Medal also went to the MF 5612 tractor at the Poznan International Fair in Poland

he MF 5611 tractor and MF 9812 row-crop planter both received prestigious International Premium Awards at AGROmashExpo in Budapest, Hungary’s biggest agricultural exhibition.

The MF 5612 won a coveted Gold Medal at Poznan’s PolagraPremiery Fair which this year attracted more than 40,000 visitors.

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In Poland, the Gold Medal is awarded to modern, innovative products manufactured using the latest technologies.

In making the awards, the jury in Budapest described the MF 5611 as having broad appeal in Hungary and made special mention of its AutoDrive system, Dyna4 transmission and reliable

AGCO POWER engine. The MF 9812 planter was praised for its planting accuracy, robust construction and narrow transport width.

In Poland, the Gold Medal is awarded to modern, innovative products manufactured using the latest technologies. Professor Grzegorz Skrzypczak, PhD, Rector of the University of Life Sciences in Poznan chaired the jury.

“We are thrilled to receive these three awards which provide further testament to the fact that we are delivering the straightforward, dependable machines that farmers need to produce their crops no matter where they are in the world,” says Campbell Scott, Massey Ferguson Director Sales Engineering and Brand Development.

Featuring the latest-design AGCO POWER 4-cylinder 4.4 litre engine, the 110hp MF 5611 and 120hp MF 5612 offer a choice of Dyna-4 or Dyna-6 transmission,

50 | Farming Monthly | March 2014

new front-axle suspension option and a loader-ready-from-factory option which includes a wide range of features to enhance ease of loader fitting, use and control.

The MF 9812 planter’s effective and versatile technology includes

The MF 9812 planter

the proven Positive Air Metering PAM™ - system and ‘Edge Drop’™ seed control. ISOBUS-ready, the machine features the efficiency of a Central-Fill System, and mainframe toolbars which fold forward to give a 3.5m width in transport.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Precision

New drone announced at Paris International Agricultural Show 2014 Parrot unveils a drone dedicated to the cartographic analysis of crops, in partnership with Airinov.

t the 2014 Paris International Agricultural Show, Parrot unveiled the 'eBee' drone from senseFly equipped with a multi-spectral sensor, the multiSPEC 4C, that is designed by Airinov following recommendations from the French National Institute for Agricultural Research (Inra).

Aerial imagery with drone for precision agriculture "In the 50's, civil aviation revolutionized agriculture. In the United States, the use of small planes and helicopters by farmers quickly became very common. Drones are a natural evolution: much less expensive, full of sensors, precise thanks to GPS and easy to program.

Their adoption by farmers will be fast and I believe that seeing drones flying above crops and vineyards will soon become as common as seeing tractors," says Henri Seydoux, founder and CEO of Parrot.

Fast to deploy, taking off autonomously,

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flying in swarms below 150 m altitude, guided by their GPS and affected by the clouds, the senseFly/Parrot professional drones make it possible to cover 10 hectares in a few minutes, with precision and a picture resolution 20 times higher than the satellite.

Developed by Airinov, a French start-up specializing in imagery for precision agriculture, and embedded on a 'eBee' drone, the multiSPEC 4C multispectral sensor measures the reflectance of crops, namely the quantity of light reflected by the leaves, in order to obtain information on the status of photosynthesis.

These observations are excellent agronomic indicators, making it possible - for example - to estimate the quantity of biomass or the requirements of fertilizers.

An agronomic interpretation for recommendation of fertilizer requirements Once the eBee drone from senseFly/Parrot has automatically returned to its takeoff point,

“Seeing drones flying above crops and vineyards will soon become as common as seeing tractors" and thanks to models developed by Inra, the collected images make it possible to create a map of the characteristics of the observed crops. Key indicators, like the quantity of biomass or the level of foliar nitrogen, can then be estimated.

These agronomic indicators are then converted into fertilizer recommendations, allowing the farmer to optimize the amount of nitrogen and to improve the quantity and quality of their average crop yield.

The Versailles and Toulouse centers of Inra will be soon equipped with eBee drones from senseFly/Parrot for the analysis of their experiments in crops.

The eBee drone will be availabe from this month (March 2014).

Trimble UX5 set for take-off The use of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) by both agronomists and growers for monitoring crop health has increased in recent years and looks set to become a key element of precision farming technology. he all-new TrimbleÂŽ UX5, available through Cambridgeshire based precision farming specialists AS Communications (UK) Ltd provides an industry leading solution for fast and safe aerial data capture.

The Trimble UX5 is a newly developed UAS that can be used to easily capture aerial images for monitoring crop health as well as for other applications such as measuring crop height and locating cattle and forage over large areas. With a built-in 16.1 MP camera modified to capture the near infrared (NIR) spectrum, the UX5 can also be utilised to help deduce vegetation indexes for both crop health assessment and variable rate

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applications.

Built with an innovative design based on a production method patented by Trimble, the UX5 can fly at 70 km per hour and can cover a one square km area at a 5 cm image resolution in a 45 minute flight. Use of the Trimble UX5 within the UK is subject to restrictions defined by the UK Civil Aviation Authority, for details of restrictions please visit: www.caa.co.uk/uas.

Manufactured from EPP foam with a carbon frame structure, the UX5 has an easy-to maintain airframe that can be renewed through a plug-and-play fitting of protected internal electronics. High propulsion allows for a quick take-off while built-in thrust technology provides a shore and steep landing circuit allowing for

The Trimble UX5 is a newly developed UAS that can be used to easily capture aerial images for monitoring crop health as well as for other applications.

landing in confined spaces.

For more details on the UX5 please contact AS Communications on (01480) 861824 or visit: www.ascommunications.co.uk.

March 2014 | Farming Monthly | 51

| ATV

The best just got better Honda brings decades of car design know-how to boost efficiency, comfort and handling of utility ATV range onda has applied decades of technology and design know-how from car manufacturing to enhance its utility ATV range. Developed at its Car R&D centre in Ohio, for the first time using Computer Aided Engineering (CAE), the new models offer fuel efficiency gains of 10% over their predecessors and enhanced rider comfort, handling and durability. With changes to both the best-selling all-rounder, the TRX420, and the ultimate workhorse, the TRX500, the new models further underline Honda’s reputation for build quality, reliability and value for money with its uniquely ‘Built for Purpose’ utility ATVs: - Developed using CAE for the first time - Enhanced fuel injection system increases fuel efficiency by 10% - Stiffer, lighter frame enhances ride and comfort - All-new bodywork offers better protection for ATV and rider - Automotive spec fuel pump offers optimum efficiency - New swingarm and enclosed rear axle bring increased durability - 21% increase in on-board power increases capability - Rack weights up on TRX500 for greater utility Efficiency up, running costs down An important aim of the development process was to improve fuel economy by 10%

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52 | Farming Monthly | March 2014

to reduce running costs and meet emissions regulations, without sacrificing performance. The new models deliver just that, with the added benefit of smoother throttle control and power delivery, thanks to an enhanced fuel injection system with optimised mapping, using feedback from an O2 sensor located in the exhaust.

Comfort and control up for more time in the saddle Ride is more stable, predictable and smooth as a result of using CAE to develop the new frame, now some 20% stiffer and 5lb lighter than previously. Handling and comfort are further enhanced with increased travel to both the front and rear suspension – now adjustable for preload - delivering more precise traction and rider comfort whatever the job in hand.

The TRX500 also now features an ondemand electronic diff lock system, providing a selectable front differential lock for maximum traction in tough terrain. Additionally, the rear brake on the TRX420 now sits inside the wheel to give increased ground clearance.

The new models also benefit from a secondgeneration EPS system, offering increased manoeuvrability at low speed when either loaded or unloaded, decreased kickback and lower driver fatigue. Significant changes to the shift map in the ECU also deliver improved shift performance, to reduce the chance of gear ‘hunting’ and giving greater responsiveness.

Durability up to protect both the rider and their investment One of the most immediately noticeable changes to the new models is the all-new bodywork; more rugged and functional to improve durability and better protect the rider from mud and debris.

To keep servicing costs down the new models feature an automotive-specification fuel pump from a Honda CR-V, with new filters offering a fivefold increase in life to 100,000km.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| ATV Uniquely, the result of some clever Honda thinking, the pump now sits within the fuel tank to reduce exposure to heat. Additionally, a new one-piece centre cover means no tools are required to access key engine components and the fuel tank.

A host of further durability enhancements offer better protection of key components including a new swingarm, an enclosed rear drive shaft axle and sealed knuckle bearings. Plastic CV boots now replace rubber, offering 65% greater puncture resistance and twice the tear strength.

Capability and usability up to get the job done To further increase the capability of the range-topping TRX500, rack weights are increased significantly, from 30 to 40kg on the front and from 60 to 80kg on the rear, with maximum weight capacity up from 220 to 250kg. This increases load-carrying ability and allows use of a wider, heavier range of applications and attachments.

On-board electrical power is also increased by more than a fifth (21%), with the addition of a new dry-type battery with an uprated ACG;

allowing the use of higher-power applications such as sprayers and slug pelletters.

a close cut without scalping.

On the other hand, if your day means dealing with brambles, bracken, long grass and dense vegetation, the Wessex AF/AFC flail mowers are ideally suited to this and maintaining forestry and woodland areas. You can choose a side mounted (AF) or central mounted (AFC) engine option and 1.2m and 1.6m working widths, with four variants of wheel configuration. This offers a wide range of applications and satisfies the legal requirements of the British HSE. The stability of the AFC is ideally suited to working on steep banks and there’s a full-width anti scalp roller to take the weight of the machine should a wheel drop into a rut. A triple belt drive ensures top performance and reliability. The 5mm steel plate deck offers durability and strength and heavy-duty y-

You can choose from Briggs & Stratton or

The TRX500 also now features an on demand electronic diff lock system, providing a selectable front differential lock for maximum traction in tough terrain.

Usability enhancements include a revised digital meter, offering better visibility of key indicators; while a thicker, more cushioned seat and an optimised rider triangle offer greater comfort for a wider range of operator. Higher output lights give more focused light distribution at both low and high beam; while the assist light on the TRX500 now works independently of the main headlights, increasing ease of use when the front rack is loaded.

The new models will be available in both red and green, with a wide range of accessories, from Authorised Honda Dealers across the UK from February 2014. Prices remain the same as for the outgoing models at 1st November 2013, starting at £7068 inc. VAT for the TRX420FM and £8184 inc. VAT for the TRX500FM. The new models continue to enjoy a two year warranty, subject to following the service schedule.

Tow and mow with Wessex Owners of ATV’s and UTV’s or anyone thinking of acquiring one as a workhorse will find the Wessex range of towed mowers well worth a look. ou may be a landscaper, contractor, owner of an estate, farm or smallholding or perhaps an equestrian facility. Either way, there’s no doubt the convenience of a quad or side by side utility vehicle quickly becomes an essential part of life and it makes sense to complement it by hitching on a mower and off you go to mow, topping the pasture or fine cutting the turf.

Take the Wessex AR Series and you have a choice of versatile machines, several with electric start, offering you rotary mowing at reasonable cost with 1.2m, 1.5m and 1.8m working widths. There is also the option of standard side mounted wheels or in-line rear wheels if you have to work close to fences, borders or under overhanging hedges.

You can choose from Briggs & Stratton or Honda engine power and all models feature three overlapping rotors to eliminate uncut strips of grass, with rigid cutterbar blades for durability.

Drive is transmitted to the rotors via two veebelts and a centrifugal clutch, with both belts tensioned simultaneously by one simple sliding action of the engine mounting bracket.

The cutting height range is 25mm to 140mm (1” to 5½”) so there is plenty of scope for cutting a variety of areas and in standard form, with the wheels directly in line with the rotors, ground contours can be followed accurately for

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Honda engine power and all models feature three overlapping rotors to eliminate uncut strips of grass, with rigid cutterbar blades for durability.

pattern flails effectively mulch material for even distribution.

If you’re looking for a budget model the Wessex AT110 topper is another ideal choice and what’s more, this is all backed by over fifty years of manufacturing for durability and peace of mind.

Get towing with Wessex International - call 01264 345870 or visit www.wessexintl.com for more information.

March 2014 | Farming Monthly | 53

| ATV

Polaris launches new flagship ATV The legendary Polaris Sportsman 500 has been the flagship of the Sportsman line since 1996. Now Polaris has taken what is the best selling 4x4 ATV of all time and, they say, made it better with the launch of the Sportsman 570. he addition of Electronic Fuel Injection takes the Sportsman to a new level with twenty percent more power, while offering more comfort and convenient features yet still keeping to keen pricing in its class. Polaris will offer two models, the Sportsman 570 Forest, which comes with a winch, mirrors and lights and the 570 EPS with power steering.

At the heart of the Sportsman 570 models is the new liquidcooled Pro-Star™ 570 engine delivering smooth, efficient power in abundance for work and recreation. Originally launched on the RZR 570, the engine features dual overhead cams and 4 valves, together with the automotive style electronic fuel injection. The engine also lives up to the Sportsman’s well-earned reputation as a workhorse by offering 1,225 lb/555 kg of towing capacity to tow trailers loaded with material and equipment.

With the new engine now transversely mounted, the ergonomics have also been

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greatly improved for added comfort. The front of the seat and side panels have been narrowed by over three inches (8.26cm) and the floorboards have deeper heel pockets to allow riders to move their feet back an additional 2” (5.08cm). The width between the rider’s feet has been reduced by 1” (2.54cm) with the result that mounting and dismounting the ATV is much easier, with improved mobility while riding. The new body style of the Sportsman 570 units has an updated front rack and industry-exclusive rear rack, the latter featuring durable exposed tube steel construction and Lock & Ride® technology. At the front, the rack offers a 6.5 gallon/24.6 litre capacity storage.

A new alternator provides increased electrical output, with 40% more power for driving accessories such as winches and lights.

For added efficiency the range of the Sportsman 570 has increased by 11% due to the larger fuel tank. The convenience features mentioned include an ISO-mounted engine for reduced

54 | Farming Monthly | March 2014

engine vibration and a smooth start-up. The wet sump configuration makes oil changes and overall maintenance much simpler. The Sportsman traditional legendary ride features independent rear suspension with 9.5” (24.1cm) of travel to minimise body roll and keep the ride smooth. There’s a full 11.25” (28.6cm) of ground clearance and on-demand, true all-wheel drive that keeps you moving, automatically engaging all four wheels when you need more forward traction and reverting back

Polaris will offer two models, the Sportsman 570 Forest, which comes with a winch, mirrors and lights and the 570 EPS with power steering. to 2WD when you don’t. The Sportsman 570 joins the ranks of the other best-selling models in the Sportsman range, bringing a new level of power and sophistication to ATV riding.

Polaris Britain Ltd. 0800 915 6720 www.polaris-britain.com

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| ATV

Lambing time for Ranger Martyn Fletcher, Flockmaster at Chilbolton Down Farm, explains why Polaris Ranger was his choice of work-horse.

hilbolton Down Farm, near Stockbridge in Hampshire, is a 750ha (1,850-acre) estate with about 300 acres of grassland. Martyn Fletcher is Flockmaster here to a flock of 1600 pedigree Lleyn. He introduced the Lleyn in 2005/6 and at the same time started full EID (Electronic Identification) recording to gather management data on ewe performance.

The Lleys were lambed outside for the first time in 2008. “We started with 150 Lleyns, followed by another 400. In those days we

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were using quads which were extremely reliable and we got the job done.

The sheep lamb outdoors in April,” says Martyn, “the problem is, with the extra work involved with a pedigree flock we need two people on each the team for outdoor lambing and that means moving around at speed to catch ewes and lambs.”

Martyn’s son had used a Polaris 4x4 on a hill farm in New Zealand and suggested looking into a Side

by Side to replace the quads.

Hampshire Polaris dealers Rafferty Newman were contacted and a

demonstration of a Polaris Ranger 400 led to immediate purchase.

“We looked at the price, which was close to that of a quad, and the Ranger is compact. We didn’t want to go much bigger than an ATV.” Martyn adds.

Other considerations were the need for an additional Ranger in the busy lambing period, which they are able to hire from the dealer, good acceleration, space for the dogs and the ability to tow a hefty trailer.

There’s plenty of electric fencing to be done when they are not lambing. Martyn found the Polaris Lock & Ride system ideal for mounting boxes on the Ranger and the only non-standard addition has been after-market tyres to deal with the extremely wet conditions that have prevailed this year. He is particularly impressed with the on-demand allwheel drive and diff lock.

A year on from the delivery of

Martyn’s son had used a Polaris 4x4 on a hill farm in New Zealand and suggested looking into a Side by Side to replace the quads.

the Ranger he lists his reasons for recommending the Polaris: safety comes first when working at speed, two seats accommodate each team, the ranger has the acceleration to move with the sheep and there’s plenty of carrying space for dogs and equipment. Above all the Ranger has been reliable and ideally suited to dealing with a flock of 1600 at lambing time.

Contact Polaris Britain Ltd on 0800 915 6720 or visit www.polarisbritain.com for more information on the Ranger.

March 2014 | Farming Monthly | 55

| ATV

Taking utility ATV design to the max!

JCB’s nimble Workmax side-by-side vehicles take some of the shake,

obust fully independent rear suspension with dual-rate coil springs gives a more compliant ride than other UTVs and provides class-leading laden ride height to avoid scrapes along rutted tracks.

It’s just one of a number of features that illustrate the attention to detail that has gone into the Workmax machines to make them the sturdiest, most economical and safest vehicles of their type.

MacPherson strut suspension handles the rough and tumble up front, while the all-round disc brakes that provide confident braking performance when on the move also contribute to secure parking when the vehicle has to be stopped on a hill.

Pull up the hand-brake on a competitor UTV pointing down a steep slope and see if it stays there. Unlike machines with just rear park brakes and an open diff, the Workmax 800D automatically engages the rear diff lock and four-wheel drive to hold the vehicle securely.

There are three diesel-engined Workmax models – the 20hp 800D 4x4 is an ideal working runabout and usually the best choice for stockmen moving up from a quad bike. The 800D will tow half a tonne and carry 400kg of its 600kg payload in the all-steel tipping load box.

The heavier-duty 26hp 1000D 4x4 is built for more demanding work and has the extra performance to go with it, plus the capacity to carry 500kg of its 700kg payload in the cargo box.

With six wheels and tyres to spread the load, the JCB Workmax 6x4 is a more specialist vehicle with a 21hp engine and permanent fourwheel drive giving it the ability to tow 500kg while also carrying a 500kg load.

In each case, a protective liner can be fitted to the box and hydraulic tipping installed in place of the standard manual arrangement.

Despite the Workmax’s lively performance, fuel economy is best in class. Extreme off-road tests with the Workmax 800D carrying a full

rattle and roll out of driving a utility ATV.

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load revealed that an operator clocking up 20 miles a day could save as much as 1000 litres of diesel over other diesel UTVs – and go a lot further between fill-ups.

All three JCB Workmax UTVs come with twospeed CVT drive, selectable four-wheel drive and a diff lock. They also come as standard with a full ROPS frame, inertia reel seatbelts, roof and speedo.

There are plenty of options – so buyers can spec their machines however they wish – including the plastic or glass front windscreens, hard panel doors and heater. The Workmax 800D is also available homologated for extended road travel.

All have comfortable seating for two (with either individual or bench seats on the 800D) and adjustable headrests for added safety and

A number of features illustrate the attention to detail that has gone into the Workmax machines to make them the sturdiest, most economical and safest vehicles of their type. comfort.

An attractive car-style instrument panel and switchgear add to the driving experience, and the hard-wearing flat floor of the cabin is easily washed off after a day of muddy field or woodland work.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| ATV

New Forest Garden Machinery 316-318 Salisbury Road Totton , Southampton Hampshire SO40 3ND 023 8087 1764 www.nfgmltd.co.uk

Greenlow ATV Greenlow House Royston Road, Melbourne Hertfordshire SG8 6DG 01763 260239 www.greenlow.co.uk

158 Performance Unit 1/2, Tallington Services, Main Road, Tallington, Lincolnshire PE9 4RN 01778 341144 www.158performance.co.uk

Extreme Quads Ltd Unit 5, Fleet Road Industrial Estate Holbeach, Spalding Lincolnshire PE12 8LY 01406 420002 www.extremequads.co.uk

XP Bikes 17 Hareleeshill Road Larkhall ML9 2EX 01698 881 885 www.xpbikes.co.uk

Off Highway Plant Solutions Tel: 01305 858623 Mob: 07899 848569 Email: sales@sphere24.com www.sphere24.com

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

March 2014 | Farming Monthly | 57

| ATV

It’s easy to choose the right ATV l range encompasses over 30 years of Suzuki is the original innovator of 4-wheel ATVs. Today, each of the 8-mode miles. The result is Suzuki’s well deserved development and customer feedback, backed by millions of hard working available. reputation for designing and building the most operator-friendly ATVs

ll ATVs in the Suzuki range come with outstanding features, build quality, power and performance as standard.

This commitment to excellence in engineering is backed by our promise of value for money, aftersales support and a two year warranty. From farming and estate management to recreation, there is a Suzuki ATV to meet all your needs.

Suzuki KingQuad 500 Power Steering The engine’s specially designed cylinder head and piston provide outstanding power and torque across the rev range for making

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light work of shifting hay bales and heavy kit around the farm.

With plenty of power and precise handling the KingQuad 500 ensures your daily route is anything but routine. When things get serious, the 4-wheel drive, fully independent suspension and advanced engine braking system will overcome the sinking feeling in your stomach on the way up and down misconceiving slopes.

The power steering model is perfectly suited to long stretches in the seat or regular riding on bumpy terrain, whilst the standard model is a smart choice for those with less extreme

demands, but equal needs for the rest of the great features.

From farming and estate management to recreation, there is a Suzuki ATV to meet all your needs.

Whichever model you choose, you can rely on the KingQuad 500 to toil long before and past a nine-to-five.

Key Features Suzuki electric power steering

Push button 2WD/4WD selection

493cc fuel injected engine

Independent suspension

The option of speed sensitive power steering allows easy manoeuvring at low-speed and eliminates bump-steer at higher speeds.

Whether you need to tread carefully or storm over obstacles, the selectable 2WD/4WD with optional differential lock is at the touch of a button.

More power and torque is ideal for towing heavy loads and traversing demanding terrain, the fuel injection supplies it in a controllable manner.

Fully independent double wishbone front and rear suspension, with 5-way adjustable settings, provides the ultimate comfortable ride even over rough terrain, making it easy to ride all day long.

58 | Farming Monthly | March 2014

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| Motors

Contact your nearest participating dealer...

Abrey Agricultural Pond House Pamphillions Farm Debden, Saffron Walden Essex CB11 3JT 01799 543208 www.abreyagricultural.com

Ieuan Evans & Son Tegfan Garage 30 Carmarthen Road Llandeilo Carmarthenshire SA19 6RS 01558 822542 www.atvuk.co.uk

Martin Pears Engineering Three Corners Halwell Totnes Devon TQ9 7JE 01548 857956 www.mpearsengineering.co.uk

Mike Pryce Agricultural Machinery Green Fields Farm Four Crosses Llanymynech Powys SY22 6RF 01691 830308 www.mikeprycemachinery.com

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

Wadsworth Quads 204 Barnsley Road, Flockton, Wakefield, West Yorkshire, WF4 4AB 01924 840319 www.wadsworthquads.co.uk

March 2014 | Farming Monthly | 59

| Motors

All new Fiat Panda Cross debuts at Geneva show The all-new FIAT Panda Cross made its world début at the Geneva Motor Show on March 4th, 2014.

uilding on the successful formula of the FIAT Panda 4X4, a car that’s as happy in city traffic as it is taking on the toughest off-road conditions, the new Panda Cross offers even more all-terrain capability thanks to a host of new features, better performance and improved ground clearance.

Key to the additional off-road ability of the FIAT Panda Cross is its standard ‘Torque-onDemand’ transmission system, which utilises the vehicle’s ELD (Electronic Locking Differential) and advanced ESC (Electronic Stability Control) systems to manage the engine’s torque delivery in difficult driving conditions. The advantages of this system are that it is both fully automatic and requires zero maintenance and it is controlled by the new Terrain Control selector, which offers the driver three driving modes depending on the driving situation: AUTO – Automatic distribution of drive between the front and rear axles in accordance with the available grip LOCK – 4WD is optimised for off-road use at speeds of up to 30mph, with distribution of torque controlled by braking slipping wheels and thus transferring the drive to those with the most grip HILL DESCENT – For optimum handling of particularly steep hill descents or when driving down extremely bumpy laneways In addition, the FIAT Panda Cross is also fitted with oversized all-season 185/65R15 tyres, larger than those fitted to the standard Panda 4x4, which were developed specifically to combine drivability and traction in lowtraction situations with positive on-road handling on both wet and dry surfaces.

The suspension of the FIAT Panda Cross has been developed to combine on-road comfort, handling, road-holding and safety with improved off-road characteristics. An independent MacPherson suspension is employed at the front while a torsion beam layout has been developed for the rear to accommodate the all-wheel drive mechanicals,

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thereby saving weight and providing better ride and acoustic characteristics than the semitrailing arm arrangement of the previous generation Panda Cross.

In addition to its generous ground clearance – 16cm for the MultiJet II version and 15cm for the TwinAir Turbo version – the FIAT Panda Cross also benefits from improved approach and departure angles: Its 24° approach angle represents a three degree improvement over the previous model, while its 33° departure angle represents an improvement of one degree. The new FIAT Panda Cross also boasts a break-over angle of 20° and a 31.5° (70%) climbable gradient.

Two engines will be offered in the new FIAT Panda Cross, both with Start&Stop as standard and both offering a five horsepower boost compared to the standard FIAT Panda 4X4.

The new 0.9 TwinAir Turbo engine now produces 90hp at 5,500 rpm and 145Nm (107 lb ft) of torque between 1,900rpm and 3,000rpm, or 100Nm (74 lb ft) at 2,000 rpm in ‘Eco’ mode. This engine, on the combined cycle, offers an impressive fuel consumption figure of 57.6mpg and CO2 emissions of 114g/km, and comes equipped with a sixspeed manual transmission with a unique firstgear ratio that was specifically engineered with off-road driving in mind.

The 1.3 MultiJet II turbo-diesel delivers a maximum power output of 80hp at 4,000rpm and generous 190Nm (140 lb ft) of torque at just 1,500 rpm but thanks to its low weight of just 140kg there are no ride or handling compromises, on or off road. On the combined cycle, the 1.3 MultiJet II engine returns 60.1mpg and its CO2 emissions are just 125g/km.

Styling-wise, every detail of the Panda Cross has been designed to make it immediately recognisable and distinctive: The front end features new light clusters, a new bumper and new fog lights integrated into front facia. New LED DRLs are also built into the skid plate, which is finished in a satin titanium colour with perforations that recall the Panda’s signature

“squircle” motif.

From the side, wheel arch extensions, side mouldings with the ‘Cross’ logo and new roof bars with a satin titanium finish set the FIAT Panda Cross apart from its siblings, while its new 15-inch alloy wheels sport a five-spoke V design and a burnished metal finish. The rear end is also revised with a new bumper with under-body protection, echoing the design of the front skid plate, a new rear light cluster and a chrome tail pipe. Finally, new tow hooks finished in brilliant red emphasise the off-road character and complete the look of the new Panda Cross.

Key to the additional off-road ability of the FIAT Panda Cross is its standard ‘Torque-on Demand’ transmission system.

The new Panda Cross joins the Panda Trekking and Panda 4X4 to offer customers a unique range of extremely capable and characterful mini-SUVs. Having invented the segment in 1983, the Panda 4X4 range has amassed 500,000 sales since it was first introduced and since the Panda Trekking and Panda 4X4 were introduced, just over a year ago, around 26,300 units have been registered, underscoring the enduring popularity of these distinctive vehicles. Approximately 30,000 examples of the previous-generation FIAT Panda Cross, which was first launched in 2004, were registered and it is expected that the new model will not only build on this success but also consolidate the success of the wider FIAT Panda range, which is the second-best seller in its segment in Europe, after the FIAT 500.

Together with the FIAT 500, the Panda has led FIAT to a position of undisputed leadership in the A segment in 2013 with a market share of more than 27% in Europe.

The new FIAT Panda Cross is due to go on sale in the autumn with pricing, final UK equipment specifications and technical details to be announced closer to its launch.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Motors

Contact your local participating dealer CJB Great Wall Hertfordshire Tel: 01279 656265 www.cjbmotorsales.co.uk

Cross Roads Warwickshire Tel: 01608 661544 unityautomotive.co.uk

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

PMS Greens Ltd Pembrokeshire Tel: 01437 767767 www.pmscars.com

Ryedale Garages Ltd North Yorkshire Tel: 01751 431343 www.ryedalegarages.co.uk

David Cook Motors Lancashire Tel: 0161 624 1441 www.davidcookmotors.co.uk

March 2014 | Farming Monthly | 61

| Motors

Carstins West Midlands Tel: 01676 533145

Subaru Newcastle Tyne & Wear Tel: 0191 228 8020

Cross Roads Warwickshire Tel: 01608 661544

Beechwood Subaru Derbyshire 01332 381 900

www.unityautomotive.co.uk

www.unityautomotive.co.uk

62 | Farming Monthly | March 2014

www.subarunewcastle.com

Europa South Yorkshire 0114 285 9955

www.europaprestige.co.uk

beechwoodsubaru.co.uk

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| Motors

Unity Automotive Cambridgeshire 01733 893704 unityautomotive.co.uk

Cross Roads Warwickshire 01608 661544 unityautomotive.co.uk

Maple Garage Ltd East Yorkshire 01964 670392 www.maplegarage.co.uk

Tallis Amos Group Leominster Herefordshire 01568 613434 www.herefordshireisuzu.co.uk

Bob Gerard Limited Leicestershire 01162 592224 www.bobgerard.co.uk

Carstins West Midlands 01676 533145 unityautomotive.co.uk

R. Hunt Isuzu Hampshire 01264 860532 www.rhunt.co.uk

Jeffries of Bacton Suffolk 01449 781087 www.jeffriesofbacton.co.uk

Hammonds of Halesworth Suffolk 01986 834090 www.hammondgroup.co.uk

Bulldog Twyford Berkshire 0118 9321 331 bulldogtwyford.com

Garland Motors Ltd Hampshire 01252 367373 www.garlandskoda.co.uk/isuzu

York Van Centre North Yorkshire 01904 470170 www.yorkvancentre.co.uk

Tallis Amos Group Bibury Gloucestershire 01285 740115 tallisamosgroup.co.uk

Isuzu North London Middlesex 0208 804 6135 www.isuzunorthlondon.com

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March 2014 | Farming Monthly | 63

| Motors

Drive away an Amarok from ÂŁ299 a month.* 1RZ ZLWK D Éœ 36 HQJLQH EHVW LQ FODVV FDUJR DUHD RI P DQG LPSUHVVLYH RII-URDG SHUIRUPDQFH WKDQNV WR VHOHFWDEOH 027,21ÂŽ IRXU-ZKHHO GULYH $OVR DYDLODEOH ZLWK DQ RSWLRQDO Éœ 36 HQJLQH DQG FRPHV ZLWK IRXU VHUYLFHV IRU WKH SULFH RI WZR ZKHQ SXUFKDVHG RQ ILQDQFH †3RS LQ DQG DVN XV IRU PRUH GHWDLOV

Business users only. *Plus VAT and initial rental. Contract hire quotation based on Amarok Startline 2.0 TDI 140PS. Offer based on a 3 + 35 payment profile and 10,000 miles per annum. 6p per mile (plus VAT) charged for mileage travelled in excess of the contracted mileage. Available on contract hire or finance lease terms. †Class 4 only. Offer applies to Amarok Startline 2.0 TDI 140PS purchased using Volkswagen Finance. The service plan is valid for 4 consecutive services, 2 interim services and

64 | Farming Monthly | March 2014

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| Motors

Alan Day Van Centre Pinkham Way, North Circular Road, New Southgate, London.

Telephone: 020 8920 4000.

Find us on your sat-nav using N11 3UT. www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/alandaynewsouthgate

Pentraeth Van Centre

JCT600 Van Centre (Hull) Saxon Way, Priory Park West, Hessle, Hull, East Yorkshire.

Telephone: 01482 908 520.

Find us on your sat-nav using HU13 9PB. www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/JCT600Hull

JCT600 Van Centre (York)

Henffordd Garage, Menai Bridge, Anglesey.

Telephone: 01248 716 344.

Centurion Park, Clifton Moor, York.

Telephone: 01904 848 302.

Find us on your sat-nav using LL59 5RW.

Find us on your sat-nav using YO30 4WW.

www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/pentraeth

www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/JCT600York

Greenhous Volkswagen Van Centre

JCT600 Van Centre (Sheffield)

Ennerdale Road, Harlescott, Shrewsbury, Shropshire.

Telephone: 01743 600 031.

Europa Close, Europa Link, Sheffield, South Yorkshire.

Telephone: 01144 040 023.

Find us on your sat-nav using SY1 3TL.

Find us on your sat-nav using S9 1XS.

www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/greenhous

www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/jct600sheffield

Greenhous Volkswagen Van Centre (Bilston) Trinity Road, Bilston, Wolverhampton.

Telephone: 01902 546 561.

Find us on your sat-nav using WV14 7EF. www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/bilston

2 full services. Services must be used consecutively prior to the vehicle reaching 8 years old. Further charges may be payable when the vehicle is returned. Indemnities may be required. Subject to status. Available to over 18s in the UK only. Available for Amarok registrations before March 31st, 2014, subject to availability. This offer may be varied or withdrawn at any time. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle Finance, Freepost.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

March 2014 | Farming Monthly | 65

| Motors

Škoda Superb range boosted by Outdoor and Outdoor Plus models ŠKODA’s award-winning Superb now boasts even greater diversity and appeal, thanks to the launch of two new lifestyle-oriented models. he Superb Outdoor is returning to the range for the first time since the model’s facelift during 2013. With off-road adventure styling as standard, the car features additional specification above the SE trim on which it’s based, and is available with four-wheel-drive transmission for grip and extra peace of mind.

Standard equipment includes new front and rear bumpers, wheel arch and side sill extensions, loading sill protection and side body mouldings. All are finished in matt grey.

Additional kit includes 18-inch ‘Trinity’ anthracite alloys, Hill Hold Control, tyre pressure monitor,

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integrated front headlight washers, heated washer nozzles and sunset glass.

The ŠKODA Superb Outdoor and Outdoor Plus will be available with one of two existing transmissions – the 2.0-litre TDI CR

Chertsey dealership helping others in floods

140PS 4x4 DPF or 2.0-litre TDI CR 170PS 4x4 DSG DPF. The on-theroad price for each Outdoor model is £26,995 and £29,235 respectively. That’s a £2,000 premium over SE trim, but with such a high specification it represents exceptional value-formoney.

For customers who want the ultimate in luxury and comfort for their adventures, the ŠKODA Superb Outdoor Plus adds full

With off-road adventure styling as standard, the car features additional specification above the SE trim on which it’s based, and is available with four-wheel drive transmission. leather upholstery and an ‘Amundsen’ satellite navigation system with integrated DAB digital radio. It costs a further £1,000.

A Mitsubishi dealership has been helping the floodaffected community in Chertsey, despite suffering due to the weather themselves. hertsey Mitsubishi had to temporarily close after their workshop and offices were flooded.

The Thameside dealership, which is next to the main bridge in Chertsey, succumbed on Monday, February 10th, after weeks of persistent rain.

Sales Manager Saul Hodder used a Mitsubishi L200 pick-up truck to deliver sandbags to local residents in the area.

He said: “I went out delivering sandbags to people’s houses.

The water had gone down a bit but we were expecting more bad weather.

“I had been coming in and looking after the place and though the offices were ok, the workshop was still full of water.

We could carry on with day-today admin here but we had to close the dealership.”

The Army was brought in on Thursday (Feb 13) and they had to put a large aquadam in place on the road outside the dealership to prevent more flooding, which blocked access

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to the dealership.

Mr Hodder said: “They thought there was more rain to come so we were preparing for the worst case scenario.”

As the dealership is part of the CCR Motor Co, which has 10 other Mitsubishi dealerships in the south, staff were able to work from the group’s dealerships in Putney and Chessington.

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Landrover celebrates 25 years of Discovery with exclusive XXV Special Edition Land Rover has unveiled a new Discovery XXV Special Edition as a celebration of the 25th anniversary year of the original launch of its versatile family SUV. irst introduced in 1989, the Discovery revolutionised the 4x4 landscape. Its combination of contemporary design, spacious and user-friendly interiors, unflinching capability and extreme versatility made it an instant hit. With the release of each new generation, the Land Rover Discovery has cemented its position as the most capable, versatile SUV in the world.

Thanks to its formidable array of innovative and award-winning technologies, from Terrain Response® to Hill Descent Control, the Discovery is as comfortable taking on everyday journeys as it is tackling the world’s harshest terrain – as numerous intercontinental expeditions have proved. Over its 25 years it has been chosen as the explorer’s choice to take on challenges and adventures; Sir Ranulph Fiennes used an original Discovery in his exhibition to discover the Lost City of Ubar, while the Discovery 3 was used on the record holding London-Cape Town drive in 2013.

Discovery models have also been used in Land Rover’s own famous G4 Challenge and Camel Trophy.The XXV special edition is based on the existing HSE Luxury specification and has been built to commemorate 25 years of Land Rover’s iconic family SUV. The special edition vehicle has a unique interior colourway, distinctive external badging and a sophisticated and premium interior lined with Windsor leather.

Phil Popham, Group Marketing Director at Jaguar Land Rover, said: “Since its inception

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70 | Farming Monthly | March 2014

the Land Rover Discovery has been pivotal to the success of the brand and has now become an iconic design in its own right. Discovery has led the way in terms of innovation, featuring technologies such as Terrain Response, which made off-roading much more accessible. The Discovery XXV Special Edition is the ultimate in sophisticated versatility and a fitting tribute to the legendary status of this iconic Land Rover.”

Distinctive Exterior Available in Causeway Grey, it features Narvik Black grille surrounds and mirror caps, and Dark Atlas features on the grille and fender vents. Silver full-length roof rails, body-coloured handles and a stainless steel bumper accessory tread plate complement the exterior.

Also featuring distinctive XXV badging on the front door and tailgate, the special edition is fitted with newly designed 20-inch five-splitspoke forged alloy wheels in a light polishedsilver finish.

Sophisticated Interior The XXV Special Edition builds on the Discovery’s HSE Luxury specification, to create a sophisticated and premium interior. Features such as the fascia, the instrument panel binnacle and door top rolls are generously lined with Windsor leather. The XXV will feature a unique interior colour way in Cirrus.

Additional luxurious highlights include twist pile carpet mats and a leather-wrapped wooden steering wheel, while subtle XXV embossing throughout adds to the high-quality British workmanship of the XXV Special Edition.

Over its 25 years it has been chosen as the explorer’s choice to take on challenges and adventures; Sir Ranulph Fiennes used an original Discovery in his exhibition to discover the Lost City of Ubar, while the Discovery 3 was used on the record holding London-Cape Town drive in 2013.

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