November 2014 Farming Monthly National

Farming

MONTHLY National

November 2014

Inside this issue...

News

FUW welcome Welsh Government badger survey |

On Topic

Smithfield | Smithfield Festival partnered by Farming Monthly National

Natural Nitrogen Fixation for agriculture |

Arable Research: Calcium uptake in tubers |

Buildings

| Make sure your buildings are fit for purpose

Muck & Slurry | Considering Catchment Sensitive Farming Also Inside: Education | Diet Feeders | Rural Security | Fuels | Arable | Tyres | ATV | Motors

Buy a single edition or subscribe at www.farmingmonthly.co.uk/subscriptions

Contents

28

12

November 2014

36 62

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Features

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Regulars

12 28 33 36 41 47 48 49

Arable

06 10 20 52 60 62

News

Potato research, Blackgrass, Croptec...

Muck & Slurry Catchment Sensitive Farming

Midland Machinery Show First ever event, we preview, we’ll be there..

Livestock Smithfield Festival partnered with Farming Monthly

Buildings Are your buildings fit for purpose?

Biosecurity Keeping it clean

Security Zedlock finalists in British Farming Awards

Catch up on the news that matters

On Topic Natural Nitrogen Fixation

Renewables Focus on wind plus AD & solar news

Machinery Custom Kubota, Hi-Spec Super Chopper & more..

ATV MK Dons receive Suzuki Ozark 250

Motors Fferm Ffactor and Isuzu - 6 time partnership

NEXT MONTH Livestock

Fencing Creosoted timber posts - fit & forget 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

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| News

New Forest commoners face grant change challenges Changes to payments that farmers receive to help them rear animals or grow crops are posing unique challenges for New Forest commoners. he Single Payment Scheme - part of the European-wide Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) - is being replaced, and the New Forest’s commoners and farmers are turning to the New Forest Land Advice Service to help them comply with new rules.

Commoners make use of ancient rights attached to their property to turn out livestock onto the open areas of the New Forest. Due to this unusual method of rearing and managing livestock, the new criteria pose some rare challenges in the National Park.

Many commoners own or rent small parcels of land, below the minimum amount needed to claim payments, as they mainly use the common land of the New Forest to graze their stock. Some also don’t have access to broadband or computers to complete the application process, which is due to move online in 2015.

The Land Advice Service is helping by: • Advising on how the use of common land can be taken into account when assessing a commoner’s right to payments • Giving payments advice over the phone and in person to commoners and farmers • Running drop-in sessions with talks from agriculture experts • Providing internet access for those without

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06 | Farming Monthly | November 2014

computers.

New Forest Land Advisor Rhys Morgan said: ‘By helping commoners to apply for their grants, the Land Advice Service is supporting the ancient tradition of commoning which, through grazing by free-roaming animals, shapes the unique landscape of the New Forest.

‘The advice also helps farmers and commoners manage their land in an environmentally-friendly way, benefiting the National Park’s unique mix of wildlife and habitats.’

The New Forest Land Advice Service works alongside a range of organisations to support farmers and commoners, including the Verderers, National Farmers Union, New Forest Commoners Defence Association and the Rural Payments Agency.

Simon Lunniss from the Rural Payments Agency, who spoke at a recent drop-in session at Lyndhurst Community Centre, organised by the Land Advice Service, said: ‘We are working hard to make sure the new CAP is as simple as possible and to minimise the burden on farmers and other applicants through working closely in partnership with stakeholders, such as the Land Advice Service.

‘I was pleased to have the opportunity to talk to around 100 commoners about the reforms

taking place, and I hope that this, and the continuing good work of the New Forest Land Advice Service, will ensure the transition period is as smooth as possible.

‘We will also keep up-to-date information available through the GOV.UK website at www.gov.uk/cap-reform.’

Young commoner Oliver Cook from Brockenhurst, who attended the event, said: ‘I thought that this was a genuinely useful event, as I was able to get an idea of how the new scheme will be tailored to the New Forest.

‘The payments we receive have been extremely important to nearly all of the Forest's commoning businesses in recent years, allowing investment into holdings and infrastructure. It is vital therefore that commoners understand how the new scheme will operate and what we need to do to meet its requirements.’

If you would like advice on CAP reform in the New Forest please contact Rhys Morgan on 01590 646688 or email rhys.morgan@newforestnpa.gov.uk The Land Advice Service is funded by the New Forest National Park Authority, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust and the Verderers.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| News

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November 2014 | Farming Monthly | 07

| News

FUW welcomes Welsh Government badger survey The Farmers’ Union of Wales has welcomed the recent launch (November 3rd) of a survey of badgers found dead in Wales. he survey is being conducted as part of the Welsh Government’s Bovine TB Eradication Programme and badgers found dead will be taken for postmortem examination.

FUW TB spokesman Brian Walters said: “It is now eight years since the last Wales-wide survey of badgers was undertaken by the Government.

“That survey was extremely useful in identifying national and regional prevalence of bovine TB in badgers, so we welcome the launch of this new survey and would encourage anyone who sees a dead badger to report it.”

The Welsh Government is asking those who come across a dead badger to note the location and call the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) on 0300 303 8268. The line is open during normal office hours, Monday to Friday.

APHA will, where practicable, endeavour to collect all carcasses reported. However, they also warned that it is important people do not handle

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dead badgers or interfere with a carcass in any way.

The previous Wales-wide badger found dead survey was carried out between October 26, 2005 and May 31, 2006. A total of 727 badgers found dead were reported to the State Veterinary Service, 459 of which were considered suitable for examination.

Across Wales the prevalence of bovine TB in badgers was found to be 13%, with estimates of prevalence highest in Gwent (26%) southern Powys (25%), Carmarthenshire (16%) and Pembrokeshire (15%).

In the more northerly parts of Wales levels were lower, but nevertheless concerning, being 7% in northern Powys, 3% in Ceredigion, 5% in northwest Wales and 3% in north-east Wales. By comparison, the proportion of Welsh cattle which tested positive for bTB in 2007 was 0.6%.

08 | Farming Monthly | November 2014

DEFRA farm income figures show volatility New farm business income statistics only serve to underline the volatility challenges across farming sectors, the NFU has said. ecent data from Defra, which focus on income from March 2013 to February 2014, show some significant swings in farm profitability across different sectors.

However, the NFU says this snapshot does not reflect the current market or changes in recent months, most notably the dramatic downturn in the fortune of the UK’s dairy industry.

NFU Deputy President Minette Batters said: “Commodity markets and prices have seen considerable fluctuations since the last dataset released from February, on top of high levels of volatility in the UK and global markets. Wheat prices which have fallen by 30 per cent per since this time last year; global dairy commodities which are down 45 per cent since their peak in February and UK beef prices fell to three year lows earlier this summer.

“The dynamics of agricultural

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commodity markets have shifted and this really is a new trading environment for all in the food chain. It’s essential that we have a long term approach in our farm businesses given the long production cycles involved, and we need to see a similar injection of longer term thinking from our partners in the supply chain.

“While the EU’s Common Agricultural Policy helps farming businesses manage volatility, we need to recognise this is changing and levels of support diminishing.

This means the Government has a greater role to play.

“My belief is that extending tax averaging and fiscal measures like capital and infrastructure allowances can all help to lessen the turbulence in farm businesses and ensure consistent investment patterns. The long term prospects for agri-food are positive, but we can’t plan for tomorrow if we can’t survive today’s challenging conditions.”

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| News

New lease of life for historic shepherd’s hut An historic part of the countryside is being brought back to life by Scotland’s leading furniture design school. he humble shepherd’s hut was once a common sight across much of the British countryside, allowing farmers to watch over their flocks by night, particularly during the lambing season.

The project by the Chippendale International School of Furniture, which has completed its first shepherd’s hut, complete with wood-burning stove, also aims to run a specific shepherd’s hut course in the summer of 2015.

The 4-8 week course will teach a range of woodworking skills, with students also building their own shepherd’s hut.

The traditional hut was a small one-room structure with cast-iron wheels and, internally, contained a bed for the shepherd, some basic amenities such as a stove, and feedstuffs and medicines for the animals.

The first recorded shepherd’s hut dates back to the 16th century and they were a common rural fixture in the 18th and 19th

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centuries. During World War II they were sometimes used as Home Guard outposts or as accommodation for prisoners-ofwar working on farms. However, by the 1950s, very few remained.

The Chippendale school, which takes furniture design students from across the world, believes that there are new markets for the shepherd’s hut – everything from home offices and spare bedrooms (with indoor toilet and shower facilities) to outdoor gyms, storage sheds or workshops.

With the shepherd’s hut being of limited size and with wheels, it more resembles a caravan than a fixed structure, and not normally subject to planning regulations.

Anselm Fraser, Principal of the Chippendale School, said: “Our intensive 30-week courses teach students traditional woodworking skills, as well as practical business skills to turn their craftsmanship into commercial success.

“But we also want our students to realise that excellence in

woodworking can be put to use in different ways – for example, boatbuilding or, in this case, bringing an almost-forgotten part of the past back to life.”

The school, which is now taking commissions for bespoke huts made mainly from Scottish Douglas Fir, also believes that history could turn full circle, with NFU Mutual in 2012 estimating that 69,000 farm animals were stolen at a cost to farmers of some £6 million.

“While we want to reinvent the shepherd’s hut for the 21st century, it may still have a role to play in keeping farmers’ livestock safe at night,” said Anselm Fraser.

Prices and further information

on the shepherd’s hut course, which will be run in July 2015, are available from the Chippendale school. Visitors to the school are With the shepherd’s hut being of limited size and with wheels, it more resembles a caravan than a fixed structure, and not normally subject to planning regulations. always welcome during office hours.

For more information visit www.chippendaleschool.com

November 2014 | Farming Monthly | 09

| On Topic

On Topic The potential for reducing the amount of fertiliser required whilst at the same time improving crop performance is a breakthrough worth shouting about

Results of Natural Nitrogen Fixation Trials are out - and it’s good news...

Azotic Technologies, the developer and producer of natural Nitrogen-fixation for increased agronomic benefit, has announced the results from the Company’s Field Trials in natural-nitrogen fixation for agriculture.

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hese results show that the Company’s N-Fix® technology (“N-Fix”) allows for a reduction in the amount of nitrogen based fertiliser (“fertiliser”) required as well as improving the performance of agricultural

crops.

These results were produced as part of on-going trials conducted by Azotic Technologies on the cropperformance of grass, wheat and oil-seed rape. The trials were aimed at determining whether the inoculation of a seed with the N-Fix technology could facilitate the colonisation of Gluconacetobacter diazotrophicus (Gd), a bacteria that converts atmospheric nitrogen into a form that the plant can use and thus enables the plant to satisfy around 50% of its need for nitrogen from the air as opposed to depending on harmful agricultural fertilisers in the ground.

The effectiveness of N-Fix on the trial crops was measured by the levels of chlorophyll observed in the leaves of test plants and the amount of biomass produced following inoculation. The results showed that on amenity turf, plants inoculated with N-Fix and with less than three quarters of the normal dosage of fertiliser produced the same amount of chlorophyll and a greater amount of biomass when compared to those plants that were given the normal dosage of fertiliser and which weren’t inoculated. On pasture grass, the results showed that those plants inoculated

10 | Farming Monthly | November 2014

with N-Fix and with only three quarters of the normal dosage of fertiliser produced higher levels of both chlorophyll and biomass when compared to those plants that were given the full dosage of fertiliser and which weren’t inoculated.

“We are delighted to be announcing the results of the field trials, results that clearly indicate the significance of the technology developed and look forward to further developing this technology and commercialising it for global use.”

The results also show that N-Fix stays with the plant longer than traditional fertilisers.

Commenting on the results of the trials, Peter Blezard, Chief Executive Officer at Azotic Technologies, said: “We are delighted to be announcing the results of the field trials, results that clearly indicate the significance of the technology developed. We have shown that the inoculation of Azotic’s N-Fix into plants can both improve crop performance and reduce the amount of fertiliser required, therefore suggesting that a widespread use of N-Fix could result in the global reduction in the amount of harmful fertiliser used, a natural boost to the quality of plants grown by farmers, and increased food security through increased global crop production. We look forward to further developing this technology and commercialising it for global use.”

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| On Topic

On Topic BASF's Jonathan Ball

Grass plots

The Technology Azotic’s N-Fix® technology is the first and only intracellular technology that enables all crops to naturally fix nitrogen directly from the air as opposed to being dependent on nitrogen based fertilisers. The technology aims to address the international market need for sustainable agricultural fertilisers.

Crops need nitrogen in order to grow, but currently it is only plants known as legumes that are able to fix their own nitrogen from the air. Other plants are dependent on nitrogen found in the soil, thus explaining the global dependence of farmers on environmentally unfriendly nitrogen-based fertilisers.

Azotic’s N-Fix® technology enables all plants to extract their own nitrogen from the atmosphere. The technology is applied to the seed and spreads systemically through the plant, enabling the organism to form a symbiotic relationship with the Gluconacetobacter diazotrophicus (Gd) bacteria that converts atmospheric nitrogen into a form that the plant can use.

The technology has a number of environmental, grower and consumer benefits. In terms of the environmental benefits, the fact that the technology reduces the global population’s dependence on nitrogen-based fertilisers will mean a reduction in the amount of nitrogen leaching, eutrophication and water pollution. In terms of grower benefits, the technology will naturally boost agronomic benefit and the quality of plants grown. Finally, in terms of consumer benefits, the technology will help solve the world’s issue of food scarcity by naturally benefiting global crop production; the technology will therefore ensure stable food reserves in line with new demand.

The technology has been exclusively patented in a family of patent and patent applications and Azotic is currently generating new IP based on further research and extension of the current patents. Proof of Concept has been established in a diverse range of crops, including maize, wheat, rice, oil-seed rape, potato and tomato.

Azotic Technologies The Company was founded in 2012 to commercialise the technology discovered by Professor Edward Cocking, Fellow of the Royal Society and Director at the Centre for Crop Nitrogen Fixation at the University of Nottingham.

More information can be found at www.azotictechnologies.com.

About Azotic Technologies Azotic Technologies is the provider of a natural-nitrogen fixing technology for the sustainable increase of crop performance and the reduction of nitrogen-based fertiliser use. The Company has a dedicated team of scientists working in its Nottingham based laboratories, and has business activities across the globe. The Company partners with international providers of biologicals, seed coatings and other agricultural products.

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November 2014 | Farming Monthly | 11

| Arable

Dr Papadopoulos checks on the field trials

Increasing Calcium in potato tubers Achieving adequate calcium (Ca) levels in potato tubers has always been the aim in the industry and an unmet challenge. Dr Apostolos Papadopoulos, Director and founder of Crop Intellect Ltd, summerises and discusses research findings with an aim to increase knowledge and enlighten producers. ncreased Ca content in the tubers is associated with a reduction in economically important defects such as internal brown spot, soft rots and hollow heart. Dr Apostolos Papadopoulos, Director and founder of Crop Intellect Ltd, has worked extensively on understanding the complex mechanisms involved in the uptake of calcium in plants.

Amongst fruits and vegetable crops, several years of research have been dedicated to further the

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knowledge of calcium uptake by potatoes. Crop Intellect has submitted a patent on selected molecules discovered to be effective in increasing the uptake of Ca in plant tissue and are incorporated in the crop nutrition product TECAL. Crop Intellect also offers PotiZon which is a unique product only for the potato crop.

The research findings of their work including other researchers are summarised here to increase knowledge and enlighten producers.

12 | Farming Monthly | November 2014

Ca is an important plant nutrient and essential for strengthening the plant cell wall for cell integrity as well as acting as a second messenger involved in many physiological functions and abiotic stress tolerance. External inputs containing Ca and plant genotype can affect the Ca levels in the potato plant. Several studies have demonstrated that applications of Ca in various forms including calcium nitrate and lime have the ability to increase the above ground Ca levels but this is not the case for the potato tubers. Ca like Sulfur, Boron and Copper are considered to be phloem immobile as they don’t re-translocate from older leaves to younger when these elements are in deficiency.

Transport of Ca is therefore believed to occur in the xylem tissue and it is not re-translocated via the phloem from the aerial shoot tubers and main roots.

Water absorbed by the main roots bypasses the tubers which has significant implications for field applied Ca. Research studies where Ca was radiolabeled to trace its movement within the plant, showed that the main root doesn’t provide Ca to the tubers. It is only the roots on the stolon and tuber that are able to increase the Ca internally. Furthermore, tuber tissue closer to the stolon had higher Ca levels compared to the opposite end of the tuber. Calcium available on the vicinity of the tuber i.e. to the periderm doesn’t contribute to the Ca in tuber tissue as it is not transported across the periderm. Ca in the periderm is manyfold greater than that in the internal tissue and levels fluctuate easier in the periderm with external Ca applications. However, no direct relation exists between periderm and internal calcium levels.

It is likely that due to differences in water potential between tubers and foliage, tubers don’t compete for Ca in the transpiration stream.

Tuber root

The water potential is nearly equal mostly in the evening although leaves always have a lower water potential which explains why only roots on the stolon and tuber are able to supply Ca to the tuber tissue. Therefore, the form, placement and timing of Ca are important when intended to increase tuber Ca. A highly soluble form such as calcium nitrate will likely leach if not supplied at regular intervals in the soil and will not provide a constant supply to the tuber. A persistent form of Ca such as present in LimeX (lime) can supply adequate levels when incorporated in the soil near the tuber. Ca solubility will be limited by the soil moisture but adequate quantities provide a constant supply during the growing season.

Several years of research have been dedicated to further the knowledge of calcium uptake by potatoes.

It is wrongly believed that foliar Ca applications will improve tuber Ca content. There is also no evidence to suggest that foliar Ca applications will reduce the removal of Ca from the tubers to the foliage as this is not a common physiological process. The foliage will typically have significantly higher calcium content than the tuber when Ca is present in the soil. It is the management of the transpiration stream and the consistent supply of Ca in the vicinity of the tuber that is directly related to the potential of increasing Ca levels in the tuber tissue through the uptake by the stolon and tuber roots.

For more information and advice on how to improve growing potatoes and to increase Ca content in the tuber please contact Crop Intellect Ltd.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Arable

GB seed potato exports resurge into Caribbean market A recent visit to Scotland by Cuban agricultural officials has led to a revised agreement for the importation of GB seed potatoes. upported by the unique partnership between Potato Council and Scottish Government to boost export opportunities, senior officials from Cuba’s Agricultural Ministry and Plant Health section travelled to Scotland this month to meet officials from Scottish Government, SASA, Fera and Potato Council to view our seed potato industry at first hand and discuss revised import conditions for GB seed potatoes.

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Agriculture employs around 20% of the Cuban population, and Cuban state farms hold over 70% of Cuba's agricultural land - about 6.7m hectares.

The Cuban visitors were given a focused tour encompassing Scottish Government’s SASA’s

plant health facilities, a seed potato micro-propagation facility, and visited a leading Scottish seed grower and exporter – all demonstrating the high health and quality of GB seed production.

In 2013, it was reported1 that Cuba spent over £1bn on food imports, representing around 60% of its domestic food requirement.

Since 2007, the government has made food security a priority and there is an increasing requirement for increased domestic crop production including healthy, highyielding potatoes.

Robert Burns, Head of Seed and Export at Potato Council led the Inward Mission to Cuba earlier this year with SASA to progress official discussions. Rob advised “Cuba used to import 30K tonnes of seed potatoes each year, some of which came from GB. But in recent years this dwindled to just a few thousand tonnes. However, Cuba has an early growing season and an emerging requirement for

(middle) Mr Manuel Rodríguez Izquierdo, Seed Company of Cuban Agriculture Ministry and (5th right) Dr Liuva Pérez López, Relations Department, Cuban and Agriculture Ministry representing Sanidad Vegetal (Plant Health) with officials plant health experts from Scottish Government, SASA, Fera and Potato Council.

both fresh and processing varieties so there have been great hopes to revive this market as an important destination for GB seed.”

Agriculture employs around 20% of the Cuban population, and Cuban state farms hold over 70% of Cuba's agricultural land - about 6.7m hectares. In 2008, in a move to increase productive use of state land resources, private farmers and co-operatives were permitted to lease any unused land for production, and regulations were loosened so farmers could sell

directly to consumers.

Also, Cuba has been plagued by ‘El Marabú’ (Marabou), an invasive weed which has overrun large areas of agricultural land.

However, it turns out that Marabou is an effective biofuel and is now being cleared. This is releasing more land back into agricultural use, and no doubt helping to increase domestic food production - and sustainable potato crops - for the 11million population of this large Caribbean island.

South East Potato Day 2014 Potato Council’s fourth South East Potato Day takes place at St Mary's Bay Village Hall, Romney Marsh, Kent, 13 November, 2014. The technical event will provide local growers, agronomists and advisors with a focused programme of talks from industry experts. ot topics on the agenda include the latest on driving consumption, minimising waste, maximising water utilisation, and specific regional agronomic challenges.

Potato Council’s head of knowledge transfer Philip Burgess says, “The South East is an important growing area for potatoes with over 3,000 hectares planted last year by c.130 professional growers.”

“The event has been designed to examine specific topics of interest to local growers, to help them tackle new legislation and meet the ever-increasing demands for quality.”

After registration from 10.00am, Dr Rob Clayton, director of Potato Council will open the event. The morning includes Ken Smith from ADAS who will discuss management

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recommendations for tramlines and wheelings in potatoes and recommend practical techniques for improving water utilisation and reducing soil runoff.

Jan Hookey from the Environment Agency will address local challenges, specifically best practice to protect ground and surface waters and will focus on guidance for minimising pesticide and nitrate pollution.

While WRAP’s Karen Fisher will explore areas where supply chain waste can be minimised and efficiency improved to maximising potato profits.

Attendees will have plenty of opportunity for discussion and networking over an informal lunch before the afternoon sessions commence with Potato Council’s marketing manager Kate Cox presenting the challenges ahead for potato

market and what growers and supply chains can do to drive consumption.

Local independent agronomist Graeme Skinner will provide a technical overview, where there will be plenty of opportunity to raise topics that are of specific local interest.

To register for this event please Register Online at http://www.potato.org.uk/events/south-eastpotato-day-2014 or contact Miya Kotecha on 0779 220 9919 or email: miya.kotecha@potato.ahdb.org.uk

Visit the Farming Monthly website at www.farmingmonthly.co.uk and read our digital edition on your tablet or other mobile devices. www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

November 2014 | Farming Monthly | 13

| Arable

Plant health improvement Proposed legislation on agents in the spotlight as endocrine disruption arable land in Western Europe shrinks T

Bayer CropScience is calling on farmers, agronomists and other stakeholders in the agriculture industry to respond to a new public consultation on endocrine disruption.

Plant health ingredients enable higher crop yields to meet the rising food requirements of the region’s growing population.

he total arable land area in Western Europe is decreasing at a rate of 0.6 percent every year due to higher urbanisation.

Pressured by the huge demand for food in the region, agriculturalists are increasingly turning to plant health improvement agents to improve the yield and quality of their crops.

New analysis from Frost & Sullivan, Analysis of the Western European Plant Health Improvement Agents Market, finds that the market earned revenues of more than $7.55 billion in 2013 and estimates this to reach $8.72 billion in 2020. The study covers nitrogen-based, phosphate-based, potash-based and blended fertilisers.

“Escalating food prices, greater consumption of animal proteins, and the corresponding growth in demand for better hay for cattle feed, are also prompting agriculturalists to resort to plant health improvement agents,” said Frost & Sullivan Chemicals, Materials & Food Industry Analyst Dr. Nandhini Rajagopal. “However these advantages are being offset by the rocketing costs and shortage of raw materials.”

Since phosphate rock is a source of uranium for nuclear power plants, its availability for fertiliser production is limited. The consumption of phosphate and potash fertilisers is also dipping due to high extraction and transport costs as well as environmental impact.

The exorbitant prices of fertilisers in Western Europe have led to excessive imports, which in

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turn, exerts pricing pressure on domestic manufacturers. Forging strategic partnerships with mine owners and natural gas producers offers a way to blunt the impact of price volatility and raw material shortage.

The considerable emphasis on compliance with regulations for the use of plant health improvement agents also impedes the functioning of fertiliser plants.

Fertilisers used in agriculture are one of the main emitters of ammonia and greenhouse gases such as methane and nitrous oxide. The method and rate of application of plant health improvement agents are strictly monitored and controlled by the EU legislation, while the European Parliament defines the identification, composition and marketing of fertilisers.

he recently announced European Commission public consultation is looking for views on how to regulate chemicals in the environment in terms of their ability to interact with the endocrine (hormone) system.

Many natural and man-made chemicals can have an effect on this system including coffee, vitamin D, soya milk and paracetamol, but only if taken in excessive amounts.

The proposed new legislation is being applied to pesticides, biocides, and other chemicals, but current proposals could result in the loss of key classes of pesticide including the triazole fungicides and pyrethroids.

Bayer believes it is essential that the risk of harm occurring to endocrine systems is fully assessed when deciding whether to ban an active substance, and not just whether the chemical has the potential to

cause harm.

Dr Julian Little, a spokeperson for Bayer CropScience said: “We would ask farmers and agronomists, together with others in agriculture, what the impact of losing important tools for controlling Septoria and other diseases, would have on their businesses, their livelihoods and their sustainability in the long run. If you are concerned then it is important to convey your concerns during this public consultation.”

The public consultation runs until the 16th January 2015 and can be found at http://ec.europa.eu/eusurvey/run ner/ED-consultation. There is an opportunity to give information on a number of potential options as well an the opportunity to give a view on the legislation as a whole in section 4 of the online document.

The exorbitant prices of fertilisers in Western Europe have led to excessive imports, which in turn, exerts pricing pressure on domestic manufacturers.

“To ensure that they can achieve compliance and simultaneously gain market share, manufacturers need to invest in new technologies that can augment the total yield”, noted Dr. Rajagopal. “Better operational efficiency to make the optimal use of raw materials will be a huge help to plant health improvement agent manufacturers’ efforts to expand their profit margins.”

14 | Farming Monthly | November 2014

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| Arable

Essential advice for farmers and advisers at CropTec’s Innovation and Business hubs Two brand new feature areas at CropTec 2014 focussing on the key areas of innovation and business have been introduced to help forward thinking growers reduce their unit cost of production. isitors will be able to see some of the latest crop technology being researched and developed and will have the opportunity to influence future research priorities.

They will also be able to discuss the business performance of their own farms and compare it with units of similar size.

The R&D Innovation Hub will showcase the latest technological developments for arable growers and give an insight into some of the novel ideas that are currently in the pipeline. The feature is supported by Innovate UK, the new name for the Government’s Technology Strategy Board, designed to help business develop technology.

“All the products and ideas on show are designed to help UK growers become more competitive in an increasingly global marketplace,” says Stephen Howe, CropTec’s Development Director.

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“But this is an interactive feature where visitors will be asked for their views on which areas of technology deserve further development and investment. That is what CropTec is all about – it is a knowledge exchange forum where farmers can learn about the latest technology and those responsible for developing and marketing that technology can interact with farmers to learn from their ideas and ensure what they are working on is what growers need.”

The second new feature is the Business Hub which includes a business advice area and the CropTec cost clinic. The hub will allow visitors to discuss their farm business with a range of business experts and advisers.

“Managing the cost of production is essential in a shortterm market where prices are volatile and there remains much political uncertainty. But growers need to take a strategic approach when they look at reducing unit costs of production to avoid any

long-term damage to their businesses,” says Mr Howe.

“Advisers at the business hub will help farmers ensure that the decisions they make are made in a way that strengthens their businesses for the future.”

The R&D Innovation and Business Hubs will complement a full range of seminars covering the key topics of Crop Nutrition, Crop Protection, Plant Breeding and Managing with Precision. There are also more than 100 exhibitors at the East of England Showground venue in Peterborough.

“There are three Cs currently

driving arable production in the UK – CAP reform, Compliance and Cost of production. A visit to the fourth C (CropTec) is essential for any farmer or their advisers seeking to strengthen their businesses to meet the challenges ahead,” says Mr Howe.

CropTec takes place at the East of England Showground in Peterborough on the 19th and 20th of November 2014. Its Headline Sponsor is Makhteshim Agan UK. For more information or to book tickets see www.croptecshow.com or follow @cropTecShow.

‘Perfect storm’ threatens spring supplies of fertiliser, warns AIC With British fertiliser orders some 30% down on the past year and a prediction from the Road Haulage Association that there will be a driver shortage in the first quarter of next year, the Agricultural Industries Confederation is warning farmers to plan ahead to ensure product is available when they want it. he fertiliser industry’s monthly statistical report shows that the JulyAugust 2014 deliveries to farms were down by some 29% against the same period in 2013.

This is a shortfall of over 132,000 tonnes year on year. Last year’s total market saw fertiliser deliveries totalling 1.8 million tonnes up to the end of the critical application period in Q1.

Thus the increased pressure on logistics next year is forecast to be severe.

“Deliveries are down due to a number of factors, including lack of on-farm storage and cashflow concerns. However, this situation is a great cause for concern given predictions by the Road Haulage Association of a shortage of qualified drivers in the first quarter of next year – the critical period for fertiliser supplies,” said David Caffall, AIC Chief Executive speaking at the

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Confederation’s Annual Fertiliser Dinner in London. “In practice, the sooner fertiliser orders are placed, the more likely farmers are to receive deliveries on time.”

A RHA email survey conducted in September 2014 found that 70% of the 360 respondents said they were suffering a driver shortage and a further 20% said they expected to do so soon. Only 11% felt their business was not and would not suffer a shortage of LGV drivers.

“The survey drew strong response from larger members.

The UK faces the prospect of a damaging shortage of haulage capacity, due to a shortage of drivers who have a valid LGV driving licence,” says the Association in its submission to HM Treasury ahead of the Autumn Statement 2014.

November 2014 | Farming Monthly | 15

| Arable

Automatic Steering System – perfect for retro-fitting Visit David King Electronics, Stand 72, at Croptec to see the latest developments available from Müller-Elektronik including their Automatic Steering System detailed below.

RACK-Leader AUTO® is both the name of the product family as well as the name for the “app” which is required for steering. TRACK-Leader AUTO® Pro, TRACK-Leader AUTO® Iso and TRACKLeader AUTO® eSteer complete the product range for automatic steering using either the TOUCH1200 or TOUCH800 terminals from Müller-Elektronik . TRACKLeader AUTO® Pro is the hydraulic version of the automatic steering. TRACK-Leader AUTO ® Iso is the upgrade version for tractors and machines that are auto steer ready and only need to be equipped with a steering computer.

The last variant is TRACK-Leader AUTO® eSteer. This is an electric wheel motor, which can be installed on any machine quickly and easily. With these products Müller-Elektronik are able to offer to almost any type of machine a corresponding steering option with highly accurate results and good value for money.

With the new TRACK-Leader AUTO® MüllerElektronik offers products with state-of-the arttechnology. The steering computer includes the indispensable 6-axis gyroscope, which facilitates the assembly and more important, it is responsible for the outstanding result of the steering. The gyroscope detects all movements of the machine, roll, pitch and yaw; regardless of the driven path it compensates perfectly uneven and hilly terrain. Another technical highlight is the electric steering motor TRACKLeader AUTO® eSteer. A brushless drive,

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The new automatic steering system from Müller-Elektronik

which operates almost silently, combines high torque with low power consumption. The biggest advantage is the simple and quick installation of the steering wheel motor. It can be retrofitted and can be easily moved from machine to machine, which ensures the maximum utilization and a rapid return on

investment.

For further information about MüllerElektronik products contact their UK distributor David King Electronics Ltd on 01789731365, visit www.dkelectronics.co.uk or www.muellerelektronik.de/en/

New report highlights impact of loss of plant protection products on food production Scientists at Fera have welcomed the publication recently of a new report warning of significant reductions in UK crop production as a result of ever more challenging EU regulations for plant protection products (PPPs). ffective crop health protection is essential for achieving a sustainable intensification of agriculture and to meet the demands of a growing population for food. The Andersons report suggests a reduction in the number of active substances that will be available to farmers for the purposes of protecting crop health. Such a reduction will have serious implications for the control of weeds, pests and diseases in key UK crops including oilseed rape, peas, carrots, onions and apples, giving rise to lower yields and a build-up of resistance due to more reliance on a smaller number of PPPs. Dr Phil Newton, Director of Science at Fera, welcomed the report commenting, “The Anderson report highlights the need for robust integrated approaches to crop health and production, but this isn’t likely to

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happen overnight. The crop health and protection opportunities offered by science and technological developments are immense, but realising their potential requires a range of industry and research organisations, working together across the sector, in a national and international policy context.

“Right now, the UK Government’s Agri-tech Strategy provides just such an opportunity.

In response to this, Fera, together with a consortium of industrial and research partners, is bidding to establish a Centre for Agricultural Innovation in Crop Health and Protection, to develop new deployable integrated solutions to reduce threats and safeguard yield and quality in crops. ” The NFU’ s Healthy Harvest report underlines the importance of plant protection products to British food production.

16 | Farming Monthly | November 2014

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| Arable

CropTec: tackling arable farming’s major issues The announced speakers for the four CropTec seminars are sure to generate a lot of visitor interest as farmers take stock of the 2014 harvest and drilling season and plan their longer term arable strategies. he four seminar titles are Crop Nutrition, Crop Protection, Plant Breeding and Managing with Precision.

The seminars will run on both days of CropTec – 19th and 20th November and there will also be a scene setting introduction by overall Sponsor MAUK. The four seminars have also attracted sponsorship from major agricultural supply companies.

Crop Nutrition, sponsored by Yara Uk Seminar Chairman: Rosie Carne, Marketing Manager Yara UK Healthy diets for healthier growth. Ian Matts, Head of Agronomy at Yara UK, describes how a balanced crop diet improves a plant’s built-in mechanism for fighting disease.

Making the most of phosphate. Andres Rangel, Senior Scientist, Hanninghof Research Centre for Plant Nutrition. Improving phosphate utilisation efficiency Understanding soil quality for yield enhancement. Roger Sylvester-Bradley, Head of Crop Performance, ADAS and Daniel Kindred, Senior Research Scientist, ADAS. Better understanding of soil texture, depth and organic matter and how their management can result in higher yields.

Crop Nutrition, sponsored by BASF Seminar Chairman: Guy Gagen, Chief Arable Adviser NFU Practical Solutions to Pesticide regulations.

James Mills, independent agronomist and Tony

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John, Director of Strategic Development at Agrovista discuss the effects of new pesticide regulations in 2015.

Profiting from positive stewardship. Joachim Leyendecker, Global Sustainability and Product Stewardship - Crop Protection, BASF. How farmers and the pesticide industry are working together to protect the environment, reduce soil pesticide levels and increase profitability.

Managing to resist resistance. Reducing the threat of pesticide resistance against a background of reduced pesticide availability.

Plant breeding, sponsored by Syngenta Seminar Chairman: Andrew Ward, Lincolnshire farmer Scoring that 20:20 goal. Malcolm Hawkesford, Acting Head of Plant Biology and Crop Science Department, Rothamsted Research explains how Rothamsted aims to deliver its goal of 20t/ha of wheat by 2020 through genetic improvement and better understanding of soil types and climate.

Accelerated plant breeding: the future is bright. Cristobal Uauy, Project Leader Crop Genetics, John Innes Centre. A DNA revolution is redefining, accelerating and enhancing traditional breeding methods.

Delivering grower benefits from through advanced breeding technologies. Robert Hiles, Head of Cereals, North Europe Syngenta. How the commercial world is utilising a range of breeding technologies to drive yield and quality.

Managing with Precision, sponsored by Vaderstad Seminar Chairman: Peter Mills, Deputy ViceChancellor, Harper Adams University Putting precision into crop establishment.

Simon Griffin, Head of Science, SOYL. Ensuring that the crop gets the best start possible.

Making the most of your field data. Shamal Mohammed, Research and Knowledge Transfer Manager, HGCA. Plenty of data is being captured, but here’s how it can unlock and utilised.

Projects for profit in the pipeline. Calum Murray, Lead Technologist – Sustainable Agriculture and Food, Technology Strategy Board. This session will reveal some of the exciting developments being supported by TSB, encourage feedback and request suggestions for future areas worthy of support.

The seminars will run on both days of CropTec – 19th and 20th November.

CropTec takes place at the East of England Showground in Peterborough on the 19th and 20th of November 2014. For more see www.croptecshow.com or follow @cropTecShow. Over the coming weeks interviews with the speakers will be released for the use of the press.

This coming season is extra special as Väderstad is launching new models of Rapid, Carrier and the completely new Opus. These machines and other improvements are the result of our vision and from valuable input from farmers.

Interest Free Finance available

Opus, the new powerful cultivator.

Carrier L/XL with 51 or 61cm disc.

Rapid C/S with hydraulic drive.

www.vaderstad.com

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November 2014 | Farming Monthly | 17

| Arable

Target black-grass with spring barley agronomy Spring barley is one of the best crops for tackling even the worst herbicide-resistant black-grass, but crop agronomy must be tailored to weed control from the outset, leading agronomy firm Hutchinsons says. p to 98% black-grass control was achieved from growing spring barley in one commercial field at the firm’s blackgrass centre of excellence near Brampton, Cambridgeshire, last season and technical manager Dick Neale believes the crop can make a real difference to weed burden if managed correctly.

“Any spring crop gives you the option for extra stale seedbed control in the autumn and allows black-grass to germinate over the winter, but spring barley has the added advantage of being highly competitive and will have a massive competitive effect on springgerminating black-grass.”

But any grower opting for spring cropping primarily to control black-grass must do all they can to get the best results, even if that means compromising on yield, he says. “It’s worth taking a bit of short-term pain for the long-term benefits of reducing black-grass populations.

“Spring barley is traditionally a light land crop, so growing it on heavier, moistureretentive soils where black-grass is more of an issue, means there has to be a change in agronomy if we’re to optimise weed control and deliver a commercial crop.”

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“If you can present the chemistry with a low, stifled black-grass population, it’s possible to get very good levels of control.”

of black-grass emerging within the crop that has effectively been given a head start.”

It may be more practical to go straight in with the drill as the first cultivation in the spring. “At least the black-grass and barley will start growing at the same time and the crop should be able to outcompete it.”

Drilling should still be delayed until April, he advises, as the warmer soil and air temperatures will favour more rapid establishment and growth. “If you’re on heavier land, droughting-out later in the spring is likely to be less of an issue.”

Seed rates should be kept high where weed control is the priority, although Mr Neale says exact rates will vary depending on seedbed conditions and timing. As a rough guide, he recommends rates of around 400seeds/m2 for mid-April sown crops, while earlier sowings (mid-March) may be nearer 325 seeds/m2.

There are a number of pre-emergence herbicide options available in spring barley but Mr Neale says flufenacet should form the backbone of any programme. “If you can present the chemistry with a low, stifled black-

grass population, it’s possible to get very good levels of control.”

Manage lodging Lodging is one of the biggest challenges when growing spring barley for weed suppression and Mr Neale says extra care must be taken to manage this risk from the start.

That means careful analysis of background soil fertility prior to any nitrogen applications and adopting a robust growth regulation strategy where needed.

“Spring barley grown on light, sandy soil wouldn’t normally require a high PGR input. But if you’re growing it on heavier moisture retentive land then don’t be frightened to commit to decent growth regulators, such as products based on trinexapac-ethyl or prohexadione calcium + mepiquat chloride at earlier growth stages with ethephon applied around flag leaf emergence.”

“It’s all about developing a tailored agronomy package that delivers both weed control and a commercial crop from land that may not traditionally have been suited to growing spring barley.”

Mr Neale says the Cousins Surface cultivator, which has been designed for black-grass control, offers an effective answer across most soil types. The tines work at a consistent shallow depth of 50mm

Minimise cultivations Restricting soil disturbance to the top 50mm (2”) is key to controlling black-grass in any situation and spring barley is no exception, says Mr Neale.

“Some people prefer to plough heavy land and leave it exposed to frosts over winter, but that can create significant challenges when trying to get on in the spring to create a seedbed. Minimum tillage does give a better chance of establishing a seedbed, but it is still not an ideal solution.”

Mr Neale says the Cousins Surface cultivator, which has been designed for black-grass control, offers an effective answer across most soil types. The tines work at a consistent shallow depth of 50mm, which retains organic matter near the surface, encourages weed seeds to germinate in the top layer of soil and leaves seeds at lower levels undisturbed.

He acknowledges water can appear slower to infiltrate immediately after heavy rain, but insists that preserving the natural structure aids drainage throughout the profile and allows soils to “carry” machines more easily than after ploughing or discing.

Delay drilling If weather and soil conditions allow, Mr Neale says it can be useful to establish a flush of black-grass that is sprayed off prior to drilling barley in the spring.

A single shallow pass with a stubble rake in early to mid-March will stimulate black-grass germination, and can be done quickly with a relatively light tractor, he notes.

“If you do opt to do this though, you have to allow at least a month to ensure everything has germinated before spraying off with glyphosate.

Drill too soon and you could end up with a lot

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| Arable

Caution urged with metaldehyde Farmers looking either to apply metaldehyde slug pellets or make repeat applications this season, are being encouraged to act with caution. ecent data from the water companies is again revealing that the active has been detected in raw water above the statutory 0.1µg/l limit set for treated drinking water.

“Instigated by widespread heavy rainfall in early October, a number of areas nationwide have seen peaks in the detection of metaldehyde,” says Dr Jim Marshall, Water UK policy and business adviser.

“However, following a week of much drier weather, levels have dropped significantly, and reduced metaldehyde exceedances have been reported.

“I’d also like to add that generally these exceedances have been confined to streams and rivers,” he says.

Simon McMunn, of the Metaldehyde Stewardship Group (MSG), explains that the correlation between rainfall and exceedances is

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a clear one. However, farmers need to remain vigilant at all times when applying slug pellets.

“Slug pressure remains high, and with many late sown first wheat and second wheat crops in particular remaining at risk from slug attack, further metaldehyde treatments should be carefully assessed,” says Mr McMunn.

“What’s more, given the recent level of detections, it’s important to consider the field risk factors,” adds Mr McMunn.

“A field’s soil type, topography, presence of artificial drainage and its proximity to water are key to whether metaldehyde could be a risk to a watercourse that will subsequently be abstracted for drinking water.

“It’s also important to ensure no metaldehyde treatments are made when drains are flowing and heavy rain is forecast - the MSG guidelines are unchanged in stating this.

“It’s imperative that we work hard to prevent exceedances of metaldehyde in water to help

secure a future for this active and retain slug control choice. Visit www.wiyby.co.uk and enter the relevant postcode to find out if there is a metaldehyde risk in the area.”

Dr Marshall adds that the joint approach by the agricultural and water sectors over the past few years has seen marked improvement in reducing the concentrations of metaldehyde in watercourses.

“What’s more, I believe that by continuing to adopt good practice in applications, it should be possible to manage the risks posed by metaldehyde.”

Legumes provide benefits Overcoming business Including peas and beans in crop rotations increases productivity and helps the environment: New research armers need to be reminded just how beneficial growing peas and beans can be to their businesses and the environment. New European research, led by Scotland’s Rural College, suggests farmers could be encouraged to grow more legumes by introducing a “Legume Premium Payment” to woo them away from imported feeds like soya and grow their own.

This advice is drawn from a recently completed research project called Legume Futures, which looked at whether including peas, beans or other nitrogen fixing legumes, in a crop rotation improved the yields of the crops following them. Researchers also considered whether legumes improved biodiversity, and assessed their effect on greenhouse gas emissions.

The study found that adding legumes into a rotation can increase farm profitability by £46 a hectare. The extra income results from substantially increased yields of cereal crops grown after the legumes, in some cases by as much as 25%. Researchers found growing legumes in a rotation helps control weeds or pests and improves soils structure, leading to increased nutrient uptake.

Legumes can also reduce nitrous oxide emissions from the business by as much as 85%.

Nitrous oxide is a highly damaging greenhouse gas, with a global warming potential 298 times

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greater than that of carbon dioxide.

Yet despite these benefits the volume of legumes like peas or beans grown in Europe has dropped drastically. Fifty years ago 4.6% of arable land was devoted to them, now that figure is just 1.8%.

This is because most legumes are grown as animal feed and historically it has been cheaper to import alternatives like soya from abroad.

Researchers believe their work proves growing their own legumes could be a better option for arable farmers. They suggest a short term initiative of introducing a ‘Legume Premium Payment’ could encourage growers to re-integrate this crop into their systems and discover the benefits for themselves.

SRUC’s Professor Bob Rees, who led the project, says: “Our work has shown that increased cultivation of legumes could make a valuable economic and environmental contribution to agriculture, in Scotland, across the UK and Europe. In the past legumes played a vital role in supporting the fertility of farming systems. We expect this work, which has been welcomed in many European countries, will encourage farmers and policy makers to reevaluate the benefits of legume based farming system.”

While a proposal to couple part of a farmers support payments to growing legumes was included in the newly reformed CAP package it has not been widely adopted.

challenges focus of NFU Cymru/HGCA arable event Cereals and oilseeds growers farming in Wales will get the chance to discuss how to overcome arable business challenges this autumn. his year, the NFU Cymru/HGCA arable event will look at getting one step ahead of black-grass, the management of soil organic matter and the latest grain market information.

The event will also include an introduction to the new HGCA Monitor Farm located in the Vale of Glamorgan.

Mr Perkin Evans, Chairman of NFU Cymru's Combinable Crops and Horticulture working group, said: “We have assembled an excellent line-up of speakers covering research, business, as well as market information.

“The event will provide the first opportunity for many to hear about HGCA’s recent announcement to add a Welsh farm to its influential Monitor Farm programme.

Arable business efficiency is at the heart of this programme and this will complement the event line-up extremely well.”

Dr Paul Gosling, HGCA Research and Knowledge Transfer Manager, will present on the spread of herbicideresistant black-grass across England and Scotland, the lessons that are being learnt and

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how proactive management could help slow, even halt, resistance spread in Wales.

Prof Andy Whitmore, Research Scientist, Rothamsted Research will discuss research looking at the best way to ‘feed’ the soil with organic material applied at different rates, times and frequencies to improve soil health and crop yields in a relatively short period of time.

Mr Richard Laverick, HGCA Head of Regional Development, will introduce the new HGCA Monitor Farm in Wales and illustrate how the monitor farm programme plans to help farms stay successful despite current challenging circumstances – falling grain prices and increasing costs of production among them.

The programme also includes a discussion on the prospects for the grain market delivered by AHDB/HGCA market analysts Jack Watts and Anna Lockwood.

Including refreshments and lunch, the free-to-attend event takes place on 18 November 2014 in Cowbridge.

Bookings are being taken online (www.hgca.com/events) or by telephone (024 7647 8726).

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| Renewables

Funding mechanisms for wind turbines range far and wide Financial barriers should not stop a profitable wind turbine installation. wind turbine can prove to be an excellent investment as a result of energy savings, feed-in tariff income and export payments, but how to fund your wind turbine project is a major consideration. Thankfully, as the industry has matured, so has the availability and scope of finance options.

On first approach, there are three different ownership mechanisms to your wind turbine.

These are outright purchase, land rental or joint venture.

Outright purchase is suitable for landowners who wish to keep 100% of the generated energy, FiTs and export tariff. Payment for the turbine is sourced via existing financial resources or borrowed finance. Borrowed finance can either be secured or unsecured.

Secured finance options offer assets as security and are likely to provide the lowest interest rates. Landowners who prefer not to offer existing assets can consider offering the wind turbine as the asset, through borrowing systems such as Siemens Energy Efficiency Financing www.carbontrust.com/clientservices/technology/implementation Land rental is suitable for landowners who are interested in a wind project, but do not wish to outlay any capital and want someone else to take full responsibility for the permitting,

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installation and running costs. This option provides people with another source of income and offers the opportunity to receive reduced price electricity. This method of development has been present for quite some time, however many manufacturers and developers are expanding their interest in renting sites from landowners. Among many others, example manufacturers and companies looking for lease sites include Endurance, Evance, Northern Power, Capture Energy, Aeolus and Fine Energy.

Joint venture options allow the landowner to share the cost and risk of the wind turbine installation with the manufacturer or developer company. Clients typically put up between 20% to 50% of the purchase costs and then benefit from the appropriate percentage of income from the turbine.

If you’re interested in exploring other ways of sharing the cost of the turbine installation, it’s worth considering the option of involving your local community. This could take place through crowd funding, or through community grant support. Crowd funding is a relatively new phenomenon that can provide a financing platform for renewable energy projects. It allows anyone interested in renewable energy to invest their own money in a scheme, whether they want to invest £50 or £50,000. It offers the

Image courtesy of Aeolus Power

landowner a way of community investment into the wind turbine, and makes everyone feel like they have their own share of the installation.

Leading crowd funding companies include organisations such as Abundance and Trillion Fund.

Another way of involving the community financially is engaging with Government community grant support schemes such as the Rural Community Development Fund in England (www.wrap.org.uk/content/ruralcommunity-energy-fund), or the Community and Renewable Energy Scheme in Scotland (www.localenergyscotland.org). Both of these mechanisms offer free and impartial advice and support, alongside grants and loans for projects that engage with the community.

Whatever option you choose to pursue, it’s obvious that if you have a good site with a good wind speed, the opportunity of installing a wind turbine is yours, and will bring many benefits to the prosperity of your farm. For further information on installing your own wind turbine, visit www.renewableuk.com/en/renewableenergy/wind-energy/small-and-medium-scalewind/index.cfm

Renewables bonanza More than £81 billion worth of renewable energy projects are proposed by 2025, representing nearly half of all infrastructure spending in the UK. arbour ABI, which is a chosen provider of construction data to the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and the Government, has released new data revealing a total of 405 renewable energy projects in the pipeline. Worth a combined total of £81 billion, these projects now account for approximately 47 per cent of proposed UK infrastructure projects.

All but 17 of these schemes are new build, indicating the significance of the renewable energy sector within construction, with proposed projects including the £25 billion Severn Barrage, phases one to six of the East Anglia One offshore wind farm worth £10.8 billion collectively and the £3.75 billion Hornsea off-shore wind farm.

The data also highlights the importance of wind power in the renewable energy mix, with wind farms accounting for nine of the top 10 most valuable projects. It

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follows a report from the Adam Smith Institute and Scientific Alliance published on Monday 27th October which argues that wind farms are “unreliable” and “intermittent”.

Michael Dall, lead economist at Barbour ABI, commented: “The scale of renewable energy projects proposed in the UK is staggering and investment in this sector shows no signs of slowing.

“According to our latest Economic & Construction Market Review, utilities were the major infrastructure project type in September and this is no surprise given the number and value of contracts being awarded which is due, among other things, to the levels of subsidy currently provided by the Government.

“With a number of these projects already confirmed and many more at early stages of planning, the future of renewable energy construction in the UK looks bright.”

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| Renewables

Wind power boosts Leicestershire farm income and enhances abattoir efficiency The installation of an Endurance Wind Power E3120 wind turbine has reduced the running costs of a livestock farm near Melton Mowbray in Leicestershire, whilst at the same time increasing the operating efficiency of a new on-site meat processing facility. ark Gale farms 200 acres of arable land on the outskirts of Melton Mowbray with his business partner. Together they also own and manage Melton Meat Limited, the region’s largest sheep, lamb and goat abattoir.

“I knew I wanted to invest in either solar PV or wind turbine technology and for this site a turbine works best,” Mark explains. “We are located on top of an exposed ridgeline which has a constant supply of wind.

Installing a turbine also has the benefit of taking up very little land so we are still able to farm our entire acreage.”

Aeolus Power Wind-Energy Ltd, an approved NFU supplier for wind energy, installed an Endurance Wind Power E3120 turbine on land a few hundred yards from the farmhouse and buildings.

Mark selected the E3120 after visiting other similar machines in the vicinity and by taking advice from industry experts at various open days and renewable energy shows.

“At first I thought the E3120 turbine would be too big for our site and location, but having seen other E3120 machines in action I realised they weren’t actually too imposing. They also have good reputation for being reliable, well built and easy to maintain, with spares easily available via Endurance’s dealer network. They also give a fantastic output.”

The turbine was commissioned on 10th April 2013 and in its first 15 months of operation produced 208,000 kWh. “We’ve averaged 5.02m/s of wind speed during that period, and the turbine has been 100% reliable. It has contributed massively to the overall profitability of the meat business,” Mark explains.

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Figures from the turbine’s records show that 48% of the electricity generated has been used directly by the abattoir, farm buildings and farmhouse, with the remaining 52% exported back into the National Grid.

“We use electricity from the turbine to power the abattoir’s water heaters, chilled stores and sterilising equipment,” Mark describes. “Not only have we significantly reduced the site’s monthly electricity bills, we’ve also earned a decent income via the Government’s Feed-In Tariff scheme and through the sale of exported electricity.

The turbine is on target to pay for itself within five years, after which we’ll have free power for at least another 15 years. It has added to the business’ overall efficiency levels and future-proofed us against rising energy costs. It has also made it easier for us to ride out fluctuations in the marketplace which assists our ongoing business viability.”

The Endurance Wind Power E3120(4) has an OFGEM nett capacity of 79.5kW. Approved Endurance distributor and installer, Aeolus Power Wind-Energy Ltd can be contacted on: Tel: 01454 633 323 email: contact@apwe.co.uk or visit: www.apwe.co.uk

Mark Gale with the Endurance E3120 turbine which powers the new Melton Meat abattoir, farm buildings and farmhouse

Aeolus Power Wind-Energy Ltd are an NFU approved supplier

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November 2014 | Farming Monthly | 21

| Renewables

On-site renewable energy generation: a Fine plan On-site energy use and new turbine designs are the future for small-scale wind developments, argues Graham Hygate of developer Fine Energy. s the UK’s small wind energy market matures, two trends are becoming apparent which we believe are likely to shape the market as it develops further.

Firstly, manufacturers are developing turbines capable of extracting energy at lower wind speeds by increasing the length of the turbine blades. This increases swept area and gives the turbine access to larger volumes of moving air each second at any particular wind speed. As well as allowing economically viable levels of power to be extracted from the wind at lower wind speed thresholds, this creates greater forces throughout the machine and requires manufacturers to make their nacelle, tower and foundation designs more robust. The increase in cost one might expect to see as a result is largely being offset by reductions in unit price thanks to increases in production volumes since the feed-in tariff was introduced in 2010.

So we now expect to see a new, lower wind speed breed of machines replacing current models without significant price increases.

This movement towards designs which work better at low wind speeds is in part a response to the dwindling number of high wind speed sites suitable for development. The other factor driving change is commercial pressure from a rapidly degressing feed-in tariff, which is forcing developers and manufacturers alike to find ways to generate more energy at each site.

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The increasing importance of onsite usage is creating more demand for the capability to predict and meter onsite energy usage reliably, accurately and without incurring undue levels of cost. We find that we need to be able to estimate how much of a business’s energy needs will be met by the supply of clean energy we generate.

Secondly, as the feed-in tariff continues to fall and energy prices continue to rise, we are seeing an increase in appetite for renewable energy installations which deliver power to meet energy demand on site. This means that energy generated by the wind turbine, or turbines, is used to displace more expensive (and usually high-carbon) energy bought in from one of the major electricity suppliers. With daytime retail energy prices currently around 12p per kilowatt-hour and rising, it makes a great deal of sense to use energy generated by a wind turbine on site, rather than simply exporting it onto the local distribution network and selling it for around 5 or 6 pence per kilowatt-hour.

22 | Farming Monthly | November 2014

This idea of displacing fossil-fuel energy plays to the strength Graham Hygate of renewable energy Managing Director sources. Wind in particular Fine Energy Ltd attracts frequent criticism for being intermittent - the argument being that if we were 100% reliant on wind, there would be times when there would be no energy at all. This is undeniably true, but the fact is that wind is part of the UK’s energy mix, and every kilowatthour generated by wind is a kilowatt-hour that does not have to be generated using coal or other fossil fuels. When we consult with communities on our proposals for wind energy developments, we always quantify the expected energy output in terms of number of tons of coal displaced as we feel this is the most meaningful way to capture what wind energy like all renewable energy sources - is achieving.

Provision of clean energy to businesses is not restricted to the farming market. The acquisition of British turbine manufacturer Evance by Ecotricity, who have for many years been providing energy to businesses from large-scale renewable installations on site, we see as confirmation that large commercial enterprises are becoming more open to the opportunities offered by smaller-scale wind.

Businesses who consume a lot of energy but don’t have enough space for a wind turbine on their land, need not miss out - such businesses are increasingly turning to developers like us and asking them to find suitable locations on adjacent land for wind turbines to meet some of their energy needs.

The increasing importance of onsite usage is creating more demand for the capability to predict and meter onsite energy usage reliably, accurately and without incurring undue levels of cost. We find that we need to be able to estimate how much of a business’s energy needs will be met by the supply of clean energy we generate. This is a complicated calculation requiring an understanding of usage patterns and how these correlate with the seasonal and diurnal variations in wind resource at a site.

Rough estimates have to be treated with caution as ‘gut feel’ can be misleading in this area. For example, if a turbine producing 200,000 kilowatt-hours per year is used to supply a grain drier that uses 200,000 kilowatthours per year, how much energy will need to be imported? Answers to the editor on a postcard please. Hint: for how many days of the year does a grain drier typically operate?

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| Renewables

Gaia-Wind in Japan Entry standard for turbine sees Gaia-Wind short listed for export award. orld leading farm scale wind turbine manufacturer Gaia-Wind has today achieved Japanese certification for its GW 133 turbine, allowing it to enter the booming renewables market in that country. The news comes as Gaia-Wind is short listed for the prestigious Scottish Green Energy Award for Exports.

Similar to the UK MCS scheme, this achievement allows Gaia-Wind turbines to attract the Japanese Feed in Tariff (FiT), vital to the economics of farm scale wind.

Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (ClassNK) provides the rigorous, technical certification process which validates the quality of the engineering, design and power performance of the GW 133 turbine system. Under the scheme, compliant small wind turbine systems with an output of less than 20kW are eligible for the Japanese FiT, whereby all the output supplied to the grid will be bought by the participating electrical power company at JPY 55/kWh for twenty years.

Gaia-Wind CEO Johnnie Andringa said:

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“With the most attractive feed in tariff in the world and a market size 1.6 times that of the UK, Japan will enable us to double our sales 2015. This will create more job opportunities and underpin our contribution to the UK renewable energy sector, while reducing our exposure to the UK domestic market to around 15% of our total sales.”

The success in Japan comes at a time when Gaia-Wind has, in response to a very challenging UK market for farm scale turbines, ramped up its export agenda.

Andringa continued: “We are thrilled to be finalists for the Scottish Green Energy Award for Exports. Our export focussed strategy has not only allowed us to increase sales overall by a projected 90% over 2013 but has enabled us to open or increase sales in, other markets including Italy, Denmark, the US, Australia, France and Israel. At 16,109 kilometres from our Glasgow manufacturing base, Tonga’s turbine sets the distance record for a Gaia-Wind export order.”

Ex-hurricane Gonzalo delivers record windfall for UK ‘energy farmers’ The stormy tail end of ex-hurricane Gonzalo might have dampened the start of the week across the UK, but for many diversifying farmers the weather brought a power generation windfall.

arm-scale turbine specialist Earthmill which has over 200 turbines on UK farms has released data from its fleet showing record power generation on Tuesday 21st October.

The firm’s collective turbine output peaked at over 10.5MW, and on the same day the entire output from all UK wind turbines also clocked up a new record average of 5.39 GW contributing 16% of the UK’s power, more than the country’s nine nuclear plants (13%) and every other type of generation with the exception of gas (25%) and coal fired (34%) power stations.

A typical farm scale turbine in a high wind area can deliver up to £10,000 in energy revenues in just a month, and even more during periods of sustained high winds.

“The miserable weather we regularly see during the British winter does have a welcome side effect for thousands of farmers and landowners generating power,” said Steve Milner of Earthmill.

“Whilst high winds can make traditional farming more difficult especially in exposed locations, this is exactly the type of weather forecast that our customers can feel good about

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as it significantly lifts their turbine generation rates and boosts their incomes,” he added.

During the week that saw the UK’s gas fired capacity reduced after a devastating fire at Didcot B station in Oxfordshire, the data showed that UK wind power is increasingly playing an important part in the country’s vital energy generation mix.

A typical farm scale turbine in a high wind area can deliver up to £10,000 in energy revenues in just a month.

“There is an army of farmers who have become small, independent power generators and who are now contributing significantly to the total of the UK’s power needs,” added Mr Milner.

“The subsidies provided under the Government’s Feed in Tariff Scheme are reducing, but the efficiency of the most advanced design of turbines is more than countering these reductions. That means we have crossed the line where wind is an economically viable income stream for farmers in an increasing number of locations,” he concluded.

November 2014 | Farming Monthly | 23

| Renewables

Solar Energy UK 2014 Our thoughts of this year’s event through the eyes of Laura Green, Farming Monthly National. n its 5th year, Solar Energy UK has established itself as the UK largest solar energy exhibition, with 200 exhibitors and over 4000 visitors. A theme which was common across the whole event was the promotion of commercial rooftop developments and the benefits this can bring to businesses.

With the rapid development of the solar industry, the show has grown in size with a 40% increase in exhibitor numbers since 2013.

The event provided the opportunity for land owners and installers to meet with the manufacturers to find out about the latest solar technology, as well as attending seminars for more specialist information from those working in the industry. With a large number of exhibitors it created a perfect opportunity for networking and business development.

A talk by the Minister for Energy and Climate

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Change, Amber Rudge, discussed the growth of the industry with 900,000 homes now powered by solar panels and the 140,000 jobs which have been created as a result of the growth.

She also highlighted the importance of

commercial rooftop developments and how the development can help to reduce the cost of energy bills.

The event will once again take place at the NEC in Birmingham from the 13-15 October 2015.

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| Renewables

Launch of new UTS products at EuroTier During the expo EuroTier 2014 in Hanover, Germany, UTS is going to launch three brand new products – one of them even awarded with a DLG silver medal. All three products revolutionise the operation of biogas plants with regards to efficiency, flexibility and performance. or the first time ever, operating parameters of substrate, changes in the viscosity as well as gas saturation in a biogas plant can be monitored and controlled during operation with the new UTS S.M.A.Rt mixing system. The automatic mixing control optimizes the mixer´s performance according to changing operation modes.

Depending on the priorities set (operation modes such as “mixing in fresh substrate”, “mixing the fermenter content” or “controlled gas desorption from lower tank areas”), the system takes care of the most efficient operation of the mixer based on the permanent collection of measuring data via the fully automated control unit.

This results in remarkable reductions in costs for maintenance and energy consumption of mixers as well as a substantial increase in operation safety and reliability. This unique product enables biogas plant owners to fully exploit their biogas plant´s potential with regards to

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flexibility, both regarding modification in substrate intake (e.g. biomass to wastes) as well as energy production (flexible power input). The UTS S.M.A.Rt-System will be awarded with the DLG silver medal 2014 at the expo Energy Decentral 2014 in Hanover, Germany.

UTS High Viscosity Pump HVP FDU – Chopper Mixing Pump with Active Degasification The new and patented UTS HVP-FDU is a world premiere in the area of high viscosity pumps.

This chopper mixing pump is equipped with a newly positioned impeller and is therefore able to pump highly viscose and gassaturated substrates with > 10% DM and at the same time degasify the material without any deficits in performance. This procedure is possible due to an ingenious system using internal pressure conditions. The UTS HVP-FDU combines a high flow rate, low energy consumption and an intelligent selfregulation which increases the efficiency of the energy transmission into the

substrate by adjusting to varying density ratios. Active degasification makes the UTS HVP-FDU the first self-regulating substrate suction pump in the world, which handles the problem of gas bubble formation not only symptomatically but causally.

UTS Separator FSP-B – Premium Class Separation for Agriculture UTS completes its range of separators for solid and fluid separation of slurry and digestate with the introduction of the new separator FSP-B. This brand-new machine was developed according the special needs of farms and is now available in two basic versions with different screen housing lengths (520 and 780 mm). The product series is built modularly, so that various modules, i.e. engine, medium supply, dewatering and press housing with output regulation, can be individually combined for the relevant application.

The new model Type B uses proven technology of the UTS FSP-A series which already has numerous content costumers due

to its efficiency, longevity, maintenance-friendliness as well as very little costs for wear parts.

By using most modern production procedures as well as standardized components for Type B separators, UTS offers its customers industrial standard machines at very attractive prices.

All three products revolutionise the operation of biogas plants with regards to efficiency, flexibility and performance.

The complete range of Type B separators including two models for the production of bedding material is available for purchase beginning November.

During the expo EuroTier 2014 in Hanover, Germany, UTS presents all three new products on their booth L30 in hall 25 and is happy to inform interested visitors.

November 2014 | Farming Monthly | 27

| Muck & Slurry

Reducing water pollution through Catchment Sensitive Farming

Using the right amount of slurry, at the right time of year, can result in huge savings for farmers

In a bid to help reduce water pollution across the UK, farmers are being encouraged to take part in the Catchment Sensitive Farming programme run by Natural England, in partnership with DEFRA. he programme which offers free, tailored advice and training on a number of ways to help reduce water pollution. The topics covered included manure and nutrient management, soil condition and pesticide management; as well as looking at the regulations in relation to slurry and agricultural fuels, cross compliance and NVZs. One area the programme focuses on the reduction of water pollution is through the economical use of slurry on agricultural land.

By using the right amount of slurry, at the right time of year can result in huge savings for farmers by reducing the amount of bagged fertiliser needed and less run off into water supplies. For example by applying slurry in late winter or spring, the crops can effectively use

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the nitrogen released from the slurry, in turn this will result in less nitrogen being absorbed by local water supplies.

As well as ensuring that slurry is stored correctly the Catchment Sensitive Farming programme enables farmers to become aware of issues surrounding Nitrate Vulnerable Zones.

By restricting the amount of slurry spread on land in areas where there are controls on the levels of nitrate in the soil, will reduce the amount of run off into water supplies.

Alongside reducing the levels of nitrogen

released from slurry, the levels of ammonia can also have a negative impact on both human health and the water supplies and so buy slightly altering the storage and handling of slurry these levels can be dramatically reduced.

Ensuring that any slurry stored has a floating cover or roof is just one way farmers can help to reduce agricultural water pollution.

For more information on the Catchment Sensitive Farming programme visit https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/n atural-england

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| Muck & Slurry

24m Dribble bar

Don’t muck about when it comes to slurry Tramspread (of Mendlesham) markets a comprehensive range of digestate and slurry handling equipment throughout the UK and Eastern Europe. ramspread is also involved with slurry and digestate storage using the Albers Alligator low profile slurry storage bags which range in size from 200m³ to 7,000m³. The storage bags are ideal for storing digestate because as a sealed vented store the high fertiliser value digestate is not diluted by rain water. Bags can be supplied with either electric or hydraulic powered mixers and fill and empty points. The company are also distributors for the Danishdesigned concrete Agri-Tank, produced in the UK by A-Consult, with sizes ranging from 183m³ to 6,500m³ and with a design life of 40 years.

Tramspread is well known for its range of umbilical equipment. Bauer pumping units and engines can be mounted on a basic slow-tow chassis or a newly designed full contractor high speed trailer pumping unit. All engine driven pumps are available with full SIL remote control.

Slurry and digestate applicators have

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changed considerably over recent years.

Slurry is applied to grassland using disc and trailing shoe injectors and the applicator now becoming very popular is the dribble bar as it is a multi-purpose applicator; it applies slurry evenly at low level on grass, growing crops and open land. The range of applicators from Tramspread consists of single and twin outlet applicator bars with spread widths from 8m to 24m, dribble bars 6m, 12m and 24m with macerators and a 6m and 7m dribble bar without macerator. All of the company’s umbilical applicators can be used in conjunction with ISO BUS for monitoring flow, application rates and field mapping. This information can be downloaded from an in-cab monitor via a USB stick and used in conjunction with the appropriate in-office computer program.

Umbilical Hose reelers – mounted and trailed, Engine driven pump units, slurry mixers from Reck and slurry separators from Nock complete the range of slurry and digestate

RECK Typhoon Rigid mixer

handling equipment available.

Tramspread Contracting Ltd operates a comprehensive Contracting service – using Tramspread equipment of course! – this service specialises in umbilical slurry and digestate spreading, typically applying over 600,000 cu m each year throughout East Anglia and beyond. Application is mainly in the Spring as an organic fertiliser top dressing to growing crops using Tramspread 24m dribble bars. All Tramspread umbilical systems are equipped with state of the art technology enabling accurate application, monitoring, mapping and recording. Slurry & Digestate are always tested for nutrient value from which application rates can be determined which in turn indicates to the farmer what has been saved in equivalent value terms of artificial fertiliser.

Further information is available from Terry Baker on 01449 766133, email: sales@tramspread.co.uk or by visiting www.tramspread.co.uk or

November 2014 | Farming Monthly | 29

| Muck & Slurry

Mobile separator from Bauer takes slurry management flexibility to new heights for large farms and contractors The latest slurry separation development from Bauer brings new ‘plug & play’ flexibility to slurry management for large farms and opens the way for contractors to provide separation services to smaller livestock units. he remarkably compact unit comprises a galvanised steel frame housing a pump and enclosed control panel, with a screw press separator mounted on top with all the necessary pipework.

Built-in pallet fork slots enable farmers and contractors to quickly off-load the unit from a trailer and pack it up again to move to a new location.

“It could be an ideal solution for the growing number of farms with more than one dairy unit and slurry storage and handling facilities,” says Adrian Tindall, UK & Ireland sales manager at Bauer. “For contractors, it offers a new service opportunity that will bring the benefits of separation to farms that cannot justify investment in their

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own system.”

The ‘plug & play’ unit requires minimal permanent infrastructure and is available with a choice of Bauer separators to provide different levels of output.

“The individual components are optimally integrated into the design for guaranteed stability and a long lifespan,” notes Hans-Peter Hojas, product manager at the Bauer Group. “It delivers a very high level of dry matter from slurry using a low amount of energy.”

All components are contained within and protected by a galvanised steel frame. They comprise a proven Bauer eccentric screw intake pump; a rotary discharge pump; an electronic control unit with cabling; and flexible intake, overflow and discharge piping with the famous

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The new Plug & Play mobile separation system from Bauer provides a complete slurry management system for livestock farms operating from more than one location and a separation service opportunity for contractors

Bauer quick coupling for easy connections.

Three versions are available: with the Bauer S655 or 655HD screw press separator, the mobile unit provides a typical throughput of 30cu m per hour and organic material up to 32% dry matter using a standard length screw with single screen.

The same dry matter performance is achieved with the S855 / 855HD separator but at throughputs of up to 40cu m per hour thanks to an extended screw

and double screen. Both separators are powered by a 5.5kW electric motor.

For separation and the opportunity to produce a soft, comfortable bedding material for cow cubicles, the mobile unit can be equipped with the Green Bedding version of the 855 separator, which has a 7.5kW motor and achieves outputs typically of 25cu m per hour producing material with up to 36% dry matter for daily production and use.

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| Muck & Slurry

Samson - when only the strongest will do Whether you choose the PG or PGII range, you can trust the strength, quality and capacity of Samson machinery. he Samson product range has been developed to satisfy the requirements of the professional user in terms of efficiency, flexibility, user friendliness and low maintenance costs. With slurry tankers ranging from 15-35M続, the smallest PG15 tanker has a starting price of 贈55,000.00 .

All Samson tankers are made using high tensile domex steel, the inside surface of the tank is treated with Epoxy, and all machines are painted with polyurethane paint.

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We have two ranges of tanker - the PG range of 15-25M続 which has been in the market for over 10 years and the new PGII range of 1635M続 tankers, which bring a whole new dimension of build strength, quality & capacity.

The PGII range can have a variety of builds from a simple ejector vacuum filling, to a very high capacity proven pump tower.

The PGII range has been developed to utilize larger wheel sizes for lower ground pressure but still keep within width and height requirement and also still retain the manoeuvrability of the older PG range.

With the new rear multi-lift being able to lift 9 Ton, the PGII range can work with the largest implements available with ease.

Spreading is all fully automatic with the SM6000 computer and in 2015 Samson will launch the new SM8000 computer, which will take slurry spreading automation to the next level.

Machines can also be fitted with a variety of Samson implements including drip hoses up to 30m, grassland injectors up to 12m and arable incorporators up to 8.5M.

November 2014 | Farming Monthly | 31

| Muck & Slurry

New Bauer Compact brings the benefits of slurry separation to smaller livestock farms A new small-size screw press separator opens the way for smaller dairy and pig farms to manage and utilise farm slurry more effectively. ith a typical output of around 5cu m per hour for cattle slurry and 7-10cu m for pig slurry, the Bauer Compact can be run at night on cheap-rate electricity to separate slurry into its liquid and solid fractions,

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significantly reducing demand for traditional slurry storage capacity.

The liquid fraction can be pumped to a lagoon for application by a small mobile irrigator or by tanker, while the solid fraction can be stockpiled for application by a traditional spreader.

The new Compact separator from Bauer is designed for dairy herds of around 100 cows to make better use of the liquid and organic constituents of slurry.

“We already have a comprehensive range of separators but the new Compact is a cost-effective option for dairy herds of up to 150 cows or so,” notes Adrian Tindall, Bauer UK & Ireland sales manager. “Slurry separation is an established technique that eases storage demands and makes better use of slurry as a resource but it hasn’t been available to smaller farms; the new Compact changes that.”

The Bauer Compact separator is smaller and lighter than the established S655 for up to 400cow herds and the S855 for herds with more than 400 cows. But it is no less well engineered, with a short but tough cast iron housing that encloses the press screw and 360 degree screen.

Slurry is fed into the housing from one side and pushed to the front by the screw, which is driven at just 19rpm by a 3kW electric motor through a reduction gearbox. A continuous plug of fibrous material is formed at the end of the housing where weighted outlet flaps regulate the pressure.

These can be adjusted to balance output, the consistency of

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the incoming slurry and the dry matter content of the separated fibrous material, which typically will be between 20 and 28%.

Liquid is extracted through a choice of 0.25mm to 1mm slotted screens and drains via a pipe emerging from beneath the screw housing to a storage tank or to a sump from where it can be pumped to a ‘dirty water’ lagoon.

The solids fraction is normally stockpiled in a bunker beneath the separator.

The small size of the Compact – it weighs 420kg and measures just 1.3m in length by 0.7m wide and stands 1m high – means it is easier to install as part of a waste management system.

“It also costs less – around £10,000 compared with the higher output S655 and S855 at £17,000 to £23,000,” says Adrian Tindall.

“Pipes, fixtures and fittings, and a control panel will only add around £3500, maybe more depending on the situation. So with the low running costs there is potential for a quick payback from being able to utilise the nutrient and organic matter content of slurry more effectively than when it’s kept whole.”

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| MMS

The inaugural Midlands Machinery Show With just a short time to go until the very first Midlands Machinery Show taking place at Newark Showground, the event is looking very promising with 160 exhibitors booked into 4 halls as well as the extensive outside space.

any exhibitors are naturally based in and around Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire but two companies are travelling from as far as Scotland and three from Ireland.

New products to be launched at the show include the new Fastrac 4000 R C Setchfield a family owned business based in Grantham; a new subsoiler by J H & W Skinns from Walcott, Lincolnshire and a new range of AUSA dumpers will be shown for the first time in this region by Britcom International Ltd from Market Weighton, East Yorkshire.

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An informative range of seminars have been planned for the two days and include such topics as “Improving Soil organic matter”; “Grandfather Rights and Rural Crime including the theft of plant and machinery. Presented by the professionals who deal directly with these topics, the technical seminars have been allocated NRoSO points for all those visitors who attend.

The organisers are hoping for an extremely successful launch on Wednesday 12 and Thursday 13 November and are already planning for next year’s show which will take

The organisers are hoping for an extremely successful launch on Wednesday 12 and Thursday 13 November and are already planning for next year’s show. place on 25 & 26 November 2015 Updates are available on www.midlandsmachineryshow.com and you can follow the event on Twitter @midsmachinery14 email us at: info@midlandsmachineryshow.com Telephone us on: 01636 705796

Products to launch at MMS R C Setchfield a family owned business based in Grantham will be showing the new Fastrac 4000 – series at the Midlands Machinery Show. ropelled by Finnish-built power in the shape of Sisu’s 6.6-litre block, it is tuned to pump out anything from 160-220hp and torque is up to 1,000Nm. A narrower chassis has made the turning circle tighter and visibility has been improved, too, with a new cab and the colour monitor taken from the 8000series. Established in 1984, R C Setchfield is this year celebrating 30 years in the business mainly focused on materials handlers and tractors and with their main franchise being JCB J H & W Skinns from Walcott, Lincolnshire will be launching a new subsoiler with a heavy duty yet simple fabrication design, built to cope with today’s fast paced cultivation. Alongside the subsoiler, the company will be showcasing their complete

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range of services from hydraulic and ram repairs, to general farm repairs and some of their range of fabrications. JH & W Skins have been operating for 118 years and offer the complete range of farm services from PTO parts and repairs to v belts, drive chain and bespoke fabrications.

Britcom International Ltd from Market Weighton, East Yorkshire have been CAT compact dealers for North & East Yorkshire and Lincolnshire for just over three years, but from September will be taking on coverage of West Yorkshire and adding an additional sales person to the team to cover this new area.

Their new range of AUSA dumpers will be launched in the Yorkshire and Lincolnshire regions (and a little bit beyond) and showcased at the Midlands Machinery Show.

November 2014 | Farming Monthly | 33

| MMS

Witham Group at new Midland Machinery Show Trading since 1921, Witham Oil and Paint Ltd is a privately owned business with its Head office and lubricant manufacturing based in Lincoln. The paint manufacturing factory is in Lowestoft and its trade centre and distribution depot based in Soham. The business is now collectively known as The Witham Group. ver the past 90 plus years, the family run business has grown from humble beginnings originally making cycle oil and candle wax to become acclaimed manufacturers of a huge range of commercial lubricants and paints. Specialising in agriculture, automotive, haulage and marine industries, Witham also supply other markets such as engineering companies, plant machinery, international race circuits and pipework producers, all with reputable lubricants, greases, paints and coatings.

Oil and Paint production traditionally works within an industry where the use of additives, chemicals and energy is essential to the manufacturing process. However, the Witham Group is totally committed to ensuring that wherever and whenever possible, our activities including raw material purchasing, manufacturing and distribution, waste generation and disposal, minimise the effect on the Environment.

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The Group is immensely proud to have been granted the Royal Warrant to HM The Queen for the products and services supplied to the Royal Estate in Sandringham.

This year we will also be at the new Midlands Machinery Show, where we will ensure prospective customers get the chance to find out what we do and how we can help them. We pride ourselves on our long standing relationships with many of our customers and enjoy working with them to achieve more from their vehicles and machinery.

So what makes Witham unique to customers? MD Nigel Bottom says “ We are a family business based on traditional values, our ethos for the past 90 years has been to provide our customers with quality, reliable products. We use the latest technology and offer online help such as our Lubricant Finder which helps you find the right oil for your vehicle at the touch of button. We help you store your lubricants safely and environmentally friendly by providing free bulk storage tanks.

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Underpinning all our services and products though is my belief that you should strive for excellence.”

Currently Nigel is President of the United Kingdom Lubricant Association, and on the Board of the VLS and UEIL, the European trade associations lobbying for fairness and quality in the provision of lubricants throughout Europe.

He adds, “We believe that oil related failure in any one of the key components of agricultural machinery will result in costly and timely breakdown. It is therefore vital to use products that meet the right specification and that is why we have already established strong supply links with the largest agricultural buying groups throughout the UK. That is also why we support the new Midlands Machinery Show as we know quality reliable products are what farmers really need.

Witham Group has been intrinsically linked with agricultural machinery manufacturers supplying the large majority in one way or another with both our

Qualube Lubricants or WOCO Paint coatings since 1921.

To be involved in the new Midland Machinery Show is very exciting. I am sure the show will provide all agricultural linked businesses the platform to share the latest products and technology, find quality products at good prices, whilst at the same time give the agricultural industry chance to catch up with old faces and exciting exhibitors.”

For more information contact Nigel Bottom MD Witham Group 07702525345 Email: nigel.bottom@withamgroup.co.uk www.withamgroup.co.uk

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| MMS

Master Driers: Industrial in design strength and performance The 2015 range of Master Driers that will be exhibited at the Midlands Machinery show this November incorporate many new features. he popular 12 Ton Model is fully Galvanised and the whole range introduces ‘New Age’ Technology which can be personalised to meet individual requirements, with capacities from 10 Ton - 45 Ton and flexibility in specification.

The principle of drying remains the same, but, the emphasis has been to make Master Driers ‘user’ friendly. They offer efficient drying and simplified operation with manual or automatic programmes.

The new operating systems are incorporated in both the Electric and PTO driven Driers.

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Introduced for this season is our new range of mobile Grain Cleaners for use with most combinable crops.

The operating systems include an Audible Alarm or Auto ‘Cut Off’

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which will alert the Operator when the Drier is loaded, to avoid overflow of grain. Also included is an internal Moisture Meter for monitoring temperature and moisture, together with an Automatic ‘Cut Off’ of the Burner at a predetermined moisture.

The Master Eye Telephone Combinator Messaging System will keep you in touch with your Drier, alerting the operator when drying is completed or if the Drier is in need of attention.

One unique feature option available on all models is the “3 Stage Burner”. It is designed with three fuel nozzles which operate in any sequence to give a wide range of temperatures. The main advantage is that it is not necessary to change the fuel jet which simplifies the operation of the burner when drying different crops. This option is available at no extra charge Introduced for this season is our new range of mobile Grain

Cleaners for use with most combinable crops. The models we have on offer are the 572 with a 70 ton/hour operating capacity and the 772 which has an operating capacity of 100 Tons/hour. Both models are equipped with a hydraulic drive or electric drive.

Masters have also successfully introduced a new range of square section fully galvanised wet grain bins to complement its range of grain driers. These are available from 3 – 40 Ton capacities and are supplied as a flat ‘self-assembly’ kit.

For more information on the

New Generation of Master Driers please call 01787 228450 or visit www. Masterfarm.co.uk

November 2014 | Farming Monthly | 35

| Livestock

Double success for last year’s champion With an enviable primestock showing record the 2013 East of England Smithfield Festival sheep champion Robin Slade made it a double win last year, bagging the carcass championship as well as the live lamb title. or Mr Slade, who has been running pure Dutch Texels for more than 30 years his 2013 Smithfield live champions were a departure from the norm, with these being by a Beltex sire.

However, his carcass champion was a pure Dutch Texel from his closed flock which uses a five family system to rotate bloodlines around the flock and maintain quality in both the females retained and the rams sold for commercial prime lamb production.

Herefordshire-based Mr Slade will be returning to Peterborough this year with another quality team seeking to defend both his championship titles again what will no doubt be strong competition in both the live and carcass classes.

Dreams do come true for last year’s beef winner Since an early age, Castle Douglas-based Drew Hyslop has dreamt of winning the coveted Smithfield silverware and in 2014 his dream came true with his Charolais cross heifer Bang Tidy.

And what a fairytale story his win was.

Purchased from the multi Smithfield championship winning Dunlop family of Hole

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House, Ayshire, Bang Tidy went all the way under fellow Scottish judge Archie MacGregor of Allanfauld.

It was a case of tears all round for Drew, who, helped by girlfriend Katie Davidson, had travelled down to compete at the event, which he says is “THE only title commercial exhibitors really want to win.”

“Smithfield holds a dear place in my heart, I’ve admired many a Smithfield champion and have the greatest respect for the top breeders and show men and women who have lifted that trophy. I’m honoured to be in such prestigious company.”

The icing on the cake was having the heifer piped in to the sale ring to the enchanting

sound of Scottish Bag Pipes, before Newark Livestock Market auctioneer Paul Gentry leveled his gavel at £8000 to William and Robert Woodward buying on behalf of Harrods.

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| Livestock

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November 2014 | Farming Monthly | 37

| Livestock

Aberdeen-Angus strength at East of England Smithfield Festival

Smithfield interbreed calf

The Aberdeen-Angus breed has a deep association with the Royal Smithfield Club and the prestigious Smithfield event, now under the title of the East of England Smithfield Festival. xhibitors from all over the UK fly the flag for the breed, regularly dominating in the native championships and now, more recently, the pedigree calf show which is also held at the event.

Last year saw a phenomenal success for the breed as Matt Currie, Dumfries, made the long journey down to compete with his purebred Aberdeen-Angus steer Base Jumper. Sired by Catrionas MacAllan, this one went to the show off the back of an Angus championship at the Scottish Winter Fair. Base Jumper also took his championship honours in the hands of supreme champion owner, Castle Douglas-based Drew Hyslop.

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Continuing a Scottish theme for the event and enhancing the fact exhibitors are prepared to show at this prestigious event, the winner of the pedigree Aberdeen-Angus calf show also came from across the border.

Clackmananshire-based Carol Rettie took top honours with a heifer she and her husband Richard bred, Retties Ladt Ruth. Now owned by Isle of Skye breeder Donald Rankin, Lady Ruth had won of the best show careers as a calf and ended her run of success at the Peterborough event by securing the pedigree calf interbreed championship.

Discussing the event, assistant breed secretary Neil Caul said: “Smithfield is an event

everyone involved in the showing scene wants to win. The addition of the calf show at the event means the breed is showcasing some of its best, young genetics at a national level and these animals will often go on to bigger and brighter futures in the show or sale ring the following year.”

Continuing a Scottish theme for the event and enhancing the fact exhibitors are prepared to show at this prestigious event, the winner of the pedigree Aberdeen-Angus calf show also came from across the border.

This year’s event sees noted breeder Donald Bigger of the Chapleton Angus and Beef Shorthorn herd take to the ring to judge the pedigree calves. Donald has judged all over the UK and further afield and is no stranger to success having sold many high priced bulls at official Society sales in Stirling, Scotland.

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| Livestock

RPA to give vital CAP information at Smithfield The Rural Payments Agency (RPA) will be providing vital policy information for new and young farmers at the East of England Smithfield Festival on 4-5 December. ommon Agricultural Policy (CAP) experts will be on hand to answer visitors’ questions and copies of the Defra’s new CAP Reform leaflet will be available on the Agency’s stand (details TBC).

The leaflet explains how farmers could be eligible for new Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) entitlements from the ‘national reserve’, and young farmers can also find out whether they are eligible to claim a top-up payment worth up to 25 per cent of the average value of their entitlements.

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Most existing Single Payment Scheme (SPS) customers will qualify for BPS, but some operating certain non agricultural businesses will not be eligible.

Up to three per cent of the total Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) budget, part of England’s budget under the Common Agricultural Policy, has been earmarked to

create entitlements for new farmers and young farmers, if they currently have more land than entitlements.

The new entitlements for young farmers will be generated from the National Reserve. The RPA will allocate these entitlements according to the amount of eligible land farmers declare on their 2015 Basic Payment Scheme application and how many

entitlements they already have.

A further two per cent of the BPS budget will be used to give extra money to young farmers if they have taken control of their farm in the last five years.

Most existing Single Payment Scheme (SPS) customers will qualify for BPS, but some operating certain non-agricultural businesses will not be eligible. The leaflet provides further detail

around the ‘active farmer’ requirements of the scheme and definitions of those who may not be eligible.

The leaflet also includes more information about hedges and how they can be counted as Ecological Focus Areas. Rules around the width, length, height and location of hedges are all covered.

Smithfield Festival 2014 An opportunity for farmers to not only show their primestock but also a chance to find new ideas to help manage costs and boost output. Don’t miss it! his year’s East of England Smithfield Fesitval, which once again has Newark Livestock Market as the major cattle sponsor, will again see top drawer cattle and sheep on show in the primestock classes as well as the ever expanding pedigree calf shows.

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“Showcasing the very best of British livestock breeding, including genetics and livestock technology.”

Wendy Morgan of Llangadog, Carmarthenshire, a well known Welsh primestock and baby beef exhibitor will be placing the primestock entries. Along with Derbyshire-based farmer and butcher Matthew Prince who will be this year's judge in the sheep rings.

The event will again host lamb carcass and beef ribs competitions to showcase the

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very best stock on the hook.

Event organiser, Kerry Buttriss commented "These classes continue to prove popular and are a great way for producers to demonstrate the quality of their livestock without the need to prepare them for the showring.”

Also returning this year are the popular Young Stockpersons competition and the College Challenge, both of which are deigned to allow the next generation of farmers and stock people to showcase their skills, explained Mrs Buttriss.

“Alongside an exceptional show of top quality primestock, the show will also help showcase the very best of British livestock breeding, including genetics and livestock technology.” “ A day at the East of England Smithfield Festival will give farmers the chance to find innovative and proven ideas to help manage their costs and boost output at the same time,” she explained.

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| Livestock

Charlie Maclaren of the National Beef Association (NBA) asks: “Why is everyone suddenly talking about Mycotoxins?”

Here Charlie gives some detailed information on what they are, where they come from and how to identify if you have them. Also he importantly gives some advice on ways to ways to deal with the problem. hese toxins have been about for years but it is only now that many in the industry are starting to realise what a detrimental effect they can have on stock.

What are Mycotoxins?

In very simple terms; they are the waste product of Fungi, they are not a living organism.

Where do they come from?

These fungi are found naturally on grasses, straw and most living plant life, and are found throughout the growing season.

How to identify Mycotoxins: Mycotoxins are microscopic, and cannot be seen in forage so it is impossible to identify them with the naked eye. However, you will be able to spot tell-tale signs that the forage been eaten contains Mycotoxins by watching the cattle.

If you have milking dairy cows the signs are easier to spot; a sudden drop in milk being the most obvious, or cows not achieving expected milk yield. In the main, these symptoms affect newly calved cows more aggressively, resulting in very loose dung and a rapid loss in weight.

These same symptoms will affect beef cows, causing a mixture of calving problems including still born calves, and a variety of other problems all connected with the animal’s immune system. These problems will show themselves in many different forms.

“It is worth noting,” says Charlie, “that a

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suckler cow’s diet is based predominately on silage unlike the modern dairy cow so the effects can be even more severe.”

This year Zealalenone is the most prevalent Mycotoxin and is being found in forages, barley and straw. The clinical signs are: • Abortions • Decreased embryo survival • Infertility and mammary gland enlargement of virgin heifers • Oedema and hypertrophy of the genitalia in pre-pubertal females (Water retention) • Vaginitis (swollen) • Vaginal secretions (Discharge) • Feminisation of young males (Tastical infection) • Infertility of young males The common effects of Mycotoxins are: • Variable feed intakes • Inconsistent milk yield • Reduced fertility • Scouring • Acidosis-type symptoms • Lethargy • Impaired immune function/poor response to disease or infections • Poor rumen function • Muscle tremors • Bloody faeces • Lower leg / teat swelling • Unsettled cows • General poor performance without any alternative explanation

The symptom is a swollen hock Ways to confirm you have Mycotoxin issues: Until now testing for Mycotoxins has been expensive and tests were never terribly effective as there are hundreds of different Mycotoxin strains and you had to state which toxin you wanted the lab to look for.

Now there is a simple test which will test for the two most commonly found toxins, Zearalenone and Deoxynivalenol, commonly known as Zon and Don. This can be completed when sampling your silage for feed value or at any other time with a pit-face sample. This method highlights the potential problem before it becomes one.

The other method, commonly used by dairy farmers is to add a Mycotoxin binder to the cow’s diet at 50gms per day. Within a few days you will see usually an increase in milk and a firming of the dung.

To Conclude Charlie said: “It is so important that we get in front of these toxins as if you try to play catch-up you will be too late.”

If you require more information you can contact Charlie Maclaren on: Mobile: 07711 84 94 74 Home:01644 470 206 or email: charlie@mvtscotland.co.uk

Zintec Agri relocates to meet increased customer demand Farm animal nutrition business Zintec Agri has grown its turnover by 20% over the past six months, and will soon be relocating to cope with soaring demand. he firm, which became part of the Denis Brinicombe Group last year, manufactures and supplies feed and animal health products to farmers across the UK. Currently operating out of its Shobdon site in Herefordshire, it will be relocating to Denis Brinicombe Group’s main site at Crediton, Devon, by the end of the year.

“It’s very exciting to be investing in growing the Zintec brand and boosting production, as well as improving our customer service by bringing all the operations under one roof,” says managing director Keith Greig. “We will be investing over £150,000 in our Crediton plant to cope with the extra tonnage, and have increased our national sales team significantly to improve coverage and the level of on-farm support.”

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Zintec, which produces bagged and bucket minerals, proteins and concentrates; as well as liquid feeds and animal health products, complements Denis Brinicombe Group’s business by strengthening both direct farm sales and merchant trade. “It is a great brand with good products, which we have enhanced and improved through consistent sourcing of raw materials,” says Mr Greig. “By merging the two businesses we have enhanced the growth of B2B Nutrition and can offer an extended range to our customers.”

Chief executive James Brinicombe will be managing the new investment and Zintec’s move to Crediton. “By relocating the manufacturing site we will improve security of supply to meet growing demand, as well as improve delivery times through transport

efficiencies,” he says. “We have also introduced a new freephone number, to make farmer orders even easier to place, wherever they are in the country.” The new number is 0800 592023.

For more information visit www.brinicombegroup.co.uk

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| Buildings

Farmers’ deposits under Be Smart with your assets threat?

Agricultural buildings are a key source of development potential on your land.

Farmers are warned by RIDBA that their building deposits may come under threat.

t is now four months since a new regulation which could have far-reaching effects on the way farmers source new buildings came into force.

CE Marking became compulsory in the UK on July 1st when it became a criminal offence, punishable by a prison sentence, for a steel framed building (which most agricultural buildings are) to be supplied without this mark.

RIDBA (the Rural and Industrial Design and Building Association) which has campaigned for steel frame building contractors to comply with the new legislation, is now warning farmers of the future threat if they employ companies which are not complying.

National secretary Tony Hutchinson said: “To date, trading standards have been taking a soft approach if they know frame manufacturers are working towards CE Marking.

“But we expect this to change soon, when they will start clamping down on frame manufacturers who are not accredited. In time, this could mean that some will have to stop trading, which raises the question of what happens to any deposit a framer pays for a building if the frame manufacturer has been forced to stop work before he has supplied it.”

CE Marking demonstrates, among other things, that the

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f they are currently in use, or last used, for agriculture and are in a sound condition, an opportunity exists for converting them into residential units under permitted development rights.

The Government published legislation in April 2014 that now allows agricultural buildings to be converted into a maximum of three dwellings without the need for planning permission.

They have established a ‘prior notification’ procedure, whereby a straightforward application is submitted to the Local Planning Authority (LPA) to confirm that the change of use meets the relevant legal tests and thresholds.

Up to 450 square metres of floor space can be converted in total, providing that the relevant building(s) are or were last used for agricultural purposes and that agreement between the landlord and tenant has been confirmed.

The LPA will be able to comment on the application only insofar as highways, noise, contamination and flooding. Planning policies are not relevant. Providing that there are no significant issues in respect

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of these criteria, and it is demonstrated as such, the application should be approved.

Permissions are already being granted up and down the country and Smart Planning are at the forefront of obtaining these consents. We have assisted our clients in determining their eligibility under the permitted development right tests, and subsequently delivered to them the schemes that they desire.

We offer a range of Planning Consultancy Services for all our clients, including plan drawing/preparation, professional statements, completion of forms and guidance on how to maximise assets within the planning environment.

Our client base is nationwide, so we can represent you no matter where your property is. If you have the aspiration, we can help you achieve it. Whether this is developing a scheme under the agricultural permitted development rights, or seeking permission for other forms of development, Smart Planning is here for all your planning needs.

building is fit for purpose under BS EN 1090-1:2009 ‘Execution of Steel Structures and Aluminium Structures’.

Recent winters appear to have shown that many farm buildings may not have been fit for purpose since they have collapsed under the weight of snow because they were either not correctly designed or fabricated. Luckily no-one has been harmed but another winter approaches.

Farmers can ensure the new buildings they are investing in are correctly designed and fabricated to CE Marking standards by engaging a steel-framed building manufacturer member of RIDBA, listed on their website at www.ridba.org.uk/cemarking.htm.

RIDBA’s 170 members have been, and are being 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 the farmer.

RIDBA members supply over 75% of the UK agricultural market and over 20% 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 4.5million²m of steel-framed agricultural and industrial buildings.

November 2014 | Farming Monthly | 41

| Buildings

Winter stabling: the devil is in the details The winter months can present difficulties for horse owners who are passionate about their animals and those in the equestrian industry who like to ensure the best possible care is given to provide a warm and safe environment during this difficult period. n the UK, the seasonal weather patterns mean that changes need to be made to daily routines and there are many factors, which can influence the results.

Some owners will worry about whether their horses are receiving a good enough winter turnout whilst private and business owners of stabling facilities need to ensure a safe and secure working environment for both horses and staff alike.

Options Essentially there are two main options that can be looked at for winter stabling solutions: • Full stabled livery • Loose barn livery As with most decisions in life, the devil is in the details and in this case they will revolve around the standard of facilities, the cost of services and, of course, the severity of the weather itself. The primary concern during the winter months is to ensure the horses are not left standing in wet mud as it causes mud fever. With little grass during the winter a good supply of

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feed and hay/haylage is required which has to be kept dry.

Full stabled livery As the title might suggest, a full stabled livery package includes everything from mucking out, feeding, bedding, and ad lib hay.

As a rule there will be a daily turn out for anything up to 7 hours and then full stabling overnight.

The facilities would have to meet a certain standard to fulfill these criteria, as wet and muddy conditions can mean a full turnout is impractical and in some cases dangerous. Modern construction methods and outdoor dry areas would need to be in place in order to fully guarantee the delivery of the services. As with any kind of ‘all inclusive’ deal, full stabled livery is unlikely to be the cheaper option but the extra features and services provided can be worth the extra cost.

Loose barn livery - (Note that this option is only for young stock) Loose barns with deep litter bedding and access to large bale ring feeders can accommodate a number of horses at any one time.

42 | Farming Monthly | November 2014

Usually this approach will include feed, hay and the barn being skipped out included in the cost.

It’s not quite the same as full individual stabling however the horses do have much more freedom to move around as they are constantly in a herd environment. Essentially the situation is similar to a large field shelter. Although this is a much cheaper option than full stabled livery the ‘natural environment’ in terms of herd socialisation might not suit every individual horse or

owner.

NB: Whilst the horses have more freedom to move around, this setup would normally be used for young horses without shoes.

Competition and older horses would not be put in this environment for fear that they could kick and harm the other stock.

For more details contact Graham Heath Equestrian on 01270 781158 or visit www.gh-equestrian.co.uk

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| Buildings

2015 FAB awards deadline draws near The deadline for the 2015 FAB awards by RIDBA is closing fast. teel-frame building contractors only have a couple of months left to enter the 2015 FAB (Farm and Agricultural Buildings) awards run by RIDBA (the Rural and Industrial Design and Building Association).

The deadline for entries for completed working buildings built between January 2013 and December 2014, giving potential entrants two whole years’ worth of projects to consider relevant for the awards, is New Year’s Eve, December 31st.

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The host for the 2015 awards is Tom Heap, TV presenter of Countryfile and Animal 24:7 and of Costing the Earth on BBC Radio 4.

The 2015 awards have been extended to include farm buildings of different sizes and for nonagricultural use as well as light industrial buildings.

As well as an overall first, second and third prize there will now also be awards for working

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farm buildings below and above 250m2, buildings changed for diversification, equestrian buildings and the most unusual building.

The FAB awards aim to recognise and rewards contractors and clients who have taken the time and effort to ensure their new farm buildings are sympathetic to and even complement the local landscape, while ensuring they are fit for purpose and have been designed with sustainability in mind.

Entries in all categories are judged on three criteria, with 50% of the marks being allocated for aesthetics/design, 30% for functionality/fit for purpose, and 20% for sustainability. The buildings must be supplied by a RIDBA corporate member, typically a contractor or fabricator of steel or timber-framed buildings.

Winners will be announced at a gala presentation dinner at the Royal York Hotel in York on Friday 24th April 2015 following the organisation’s AGM. The winner of the 2013 inaugural awards was Cross Lanes organic farm in Barnard Castle, which was designed and built by the town’s

specialist contractors Simpson & Allinson.

The 2013 winner of the sustainability category, and the 2013 third winner overall, was the Old Railway Line Garden Centre farm shop and restaurant in Brecon. Winner of the functionality category was Stowells Farms’ 500cow dairy complex and anaerobic digestion plant capable of producing enough electricity from manure and waste crops for 1,000 homes, in Wilcot, Wiltshire.

Second placed overall was The Countryside Restoration Trust’s dairy unit at Pierrepont Home Farm in Frensham, Surrey, and winner of the non-RIDBA category was Hadspen Estates Shop’s cow shed at Shatwell Farm, Yarlington, Somerset, which features a covered feed line disguised as a

stone colonnade.

The host for the 2015 awards is Tom Heap, TV presenter of Countryfile and Animal 24:7 and of Costing the Earth on BBC Radio 4.

Tom is also a regular reporter for Panorama.

Sponsorship by manufacturer affiliates of RIDBA are available to supplement last year’s sponsors who are supporting again this year - Marley Eternit, Wedge Galvanising, Kingspan Insulated Panels, Brett Martin Daylight Systems and Steadman’s.

RIDBA’s 200+ members comprise contractors, designers, colleges, surveyors, land agents, planners, manufacturers and clients. The organisation campaigns on their behalf in the fields of good practice, health and safety and new legislation.

November 2014 | Farming Monthly | 43

| Buildings

A leading light in agricultural buildings Farm buildings are an important investment for any farmer so long term performance is a prerequisite when specifying construction products and materials. Guaranteed to improve the working life of an agricultural building for over 25 years, Farmlite GRP rooflights from Brett Martin Daylight Systems will provide free, quality natural light which is proven to encourage healthier, more disease-resistant livestock and improved conditions for farm workers. nferior rooflights commonly used in farm buildings are well-known to degrade quickly, leading to a rapid loss of light transmission within the building and with it all the advantages that natural light can offer. Brett Martin’s Farmlite GRP rooflights are designed to combat these problems by providing a more durable, transparent and longer lasting agricultural rooflight.

Developed with anti-yellowing technology that resists the long term damaging effects of UV radiation, Farmlite GRP rooflights bring value, light and durability to improve the working life of a farm building. Each rooflight sheet comes with dual action UV surface protection and specially formulated UV resistant resins as standard, so the effects of weathering are greatly reduced and the rooflights stay clearer for longer.

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44 | Farming Monthly | November 2014

Increasing yields Rooflights make a vital contribution to every building, from improving internal conditions to reducing energy use and running costs. At a new-build dairy farm expansion in Martock, Somerset, over 1,500m2 of Farmlite GRP rooflights were installed to improve internal living conditions and provide long term, high quality natural light for up to 800 cows.

Designed and fabricated by AJ Lowther & Son, the 9,850m2 steel framed building has been built as part of the expansion of the 1,100 acre Witcombe Farm site. With the existing farm buildings over 40 years old and renovation not a feasible solution, the owner required a newbuild dairy unit that would meet stringent animal welfare and environmental regulations.

As part of the design, it was essential to bring as much diffused natural light into the building as possible. Working closely with the client, AJ Lowther investigated a variety of options before selecting Farmlite GRP rooflights which are guaranteed to offer the best long term performance in terms of structural durability and light transmission.

By maintaining their natural translucency, Farmlite rooflights provide free, quality natural light which is proven to encourage healthier, more disease-resistant livestock. They also ensure improved conditions for farm workers and can contribute to energy savings by helping reduce the consumption of electric light in the farm building when used in combination with lighting control systems.

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| Buildings

New CE Marking Door Regulations Since 1st July 2013 all door makers have been legally obliged to CE mark every non-fire industrial and commercial door they supply. rior to 1st July the CE marking of powered doors was mandatory as set out in the Machinery Directive.

Manual doors were governed by different EU rules – the Constructive Products Directive. This ruled that CE marking for manual doors was voluntary, not mandatory.

ENHANCED REGULATIONS Manual Doors: the Constructive Products Directive is now called the Constructive Products Regulation. CE marking and compliance is now mandatory for manual doors, including testing monitoring and issuing a Declaration of Performance.

Powered Doors: CE marking continues to be mandatory under the Machinery Directive but now must also comply with the Constructive Products Regulation.

Thus the manufacturer has to issue a Declaration of Performance for each model of door sold. The

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regulation also clearly specifies who should undertake the initial testing and who monitors the production system to ensure that the Declaration of Performance are maintained.

In summary, all doors must be CE marked and this is valid for all countries in the EU. GALEBREAKER DOORS Since 2005 Galebreaker have been CE marking both manual and electric doors. For powered / electric doors this was done following the procedures and guidelines detailed in EN13241.

Galebreaker used the data detailed in EN13241 to streamline their design process to mitigate risk and so were able to also CE mark manual doors.

Declaration of Performance documents for Galebreaker products are available on their website in the customer support area.

All Galebreaker doors are sold

with the expectation that they will be operated by trained users in a controlled area. Agridoor® Electric models are fitted with a highly sensitive safety edge system.

WHY SHOULD BUYERS CARE IF A DOOR IS CE MARKED? The following text is taken from the Door & Hardware Federation’s website: “It is vital that specifiers choose CE marked products from DHF members. Why? • peace of mind that the product has been checked to ensure it complies with health and safety and some environmental regulations.

• no need for specifier to check compliance (but a check still needs to be made to ensure it complies with Building Regulations.

• no need for specifier to carry out risk assessments (but the building owner or user will still have to carry out risk assessment.

Choosing a CE marked product from a DHF member company means that the CE mark is evidence of compliance relating to product safety under health and safety legislation - and so It helps protect the architect’s or specifier’s client against litigation in the event of an accident occurring.”

Galebreaker have been DHF members since 2011. For more information visit http://www.dhfonline.org.uk/indust rial-group-ce.aspx

November 2014 | Farming Monthly | 45

| Anniversary

18 years and counting...

Farming is tough - but we’re here with you to help fill in the gaps and keep you up to date with industry news.

was going to start out by saying that magazine printing is a tough business. And here we still are, after 18 years and through the toughest of times. Things don’t get any easier..etc. etc. but I thought - wait a minute - how self indulgent.

This isn’t really about us - and nor should it be.

This is about you - our faithful and dedicated readers. It’s about our valued and committed advertisers. It’s about working together, sharing the good times and the bad.

You, readers, will continue the struggle to feed us, whatever the cost. Our advertisers will continue to highlight the products and services that will help you to achieve this goal. And us?

We’ll continue to report on the ever changing landscape that is UK farming. The challenges, the trials and the tribulations of being a farmer. We’ll try our best to help you along the way and maybe pass the time a little (if you have any spare time to pass!).

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We encourage you to let us know how we can do better - let us know what you want to see covered, write in and share your views and be a part of the Farming Monthly National story.

Send you ideas, comments or stories to The Editor, Farming Monthly National, 15-17 Dugdale Street, Nuneaton, Warwickshire CV11 5QJ or email us at letters@farmingmonthly.com We look ahead to a positive and productive New Year for everyone associated with the farming industry - best of luck to us all!

46 | Farming Monthly | November 2014

Farming

MONTHLY National

November 2014

Inside this issue...

News

FUW welcome Welsh Government badger survey |

On Topic

Smithfield | Smithfield Festival partnered by Farming Monthly National

Natural Nitrogen Fixation for agriculture |

Arable Research: Calcium uptake in tubers |

Buildings

| Make sure your buildings are fit for purpose

Muck & Slurry | Considering Catchment Sensitive Farming Also Inside: Education | Diet Feeders | Rural Security | Fuels | Arable | Tyres | ATV | Motors

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| Biosecurity

Briggs & Stratton Power Products available from 1500+ Henton & Chattell dealers nationwide Henton & Chattell, the UK’s leading distributor of powered garden machinery, is now a major supplier of Briggs & Stratton power products. s the world’s largest manufacturer of petrol powered engines, Brigg & Stratton is renowned for its performance and quality. This extends across the company’s entire range, including its generators, pressure washers and water pumps.

A pressure washer from Briggs & Stratton makes outdoor cleaning faster, easier and effortless. They can deliver up to 75 times more power than an ordinary garden hose, enabling users to blast away dirt, moss and mould in an instant.

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Peter Chaloner, managing director of Henton & Chattell, commented: “Petrol powered pressure washers are a key piece of equipment in garden maintenance. They can transform surfaces in no time and help clean hard to reach areas or remove dirt that manual methods may not be able to tackle. The Briggs & Stratton models are efficient and powerful, and deliver unbeatable cleaning performance whilst making the task of outdoor cleaning quick and easy”.

Add to this the benefits of portable power from a Briggs & Stratton generator which

include effortless starting, easy to access sockets and up to 7000W of power, and the choice is easy. There are currently six Briggs & Stratton generators available; two for home application and four for professional use.

Briggs & Stratton power products are available from Henton & Chattell’s nationwide network of 1500+ dealers.

For more information, and to find you nearest dealer, visit www.hcuk.co

Safer, cleaner, faster, cheaper: Best practice hot water cleaning for pig units delivers thorough and effective results in significantly less time. utbreaks of disease in pig farms are costly. When disease strikes, a destock is a last possible resort, which has major time and cost implications. Already very active in the agriculture sector and wellpractised in the development of effective cleaning processes, Kärcher is supporting the The British Pig Executive (BPEX) in its quest to improve herd health and combat endemic disease.

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Safer, cleaner, faster, cheaper.

Setting out to measure how the current cleaning practice of cold water cleaning followed by lime wash could be improved by using a hot water pressure washer with detergent and disinfectant, Kärcher worked alongside BPEX, respected vets, stockmen and farm managers. “The project involved taking swabs from pig housing on a case study farm, following cleaning. The samples were then tested for two common types of harmful pathogen; Salmonella and Enterobacteria, as

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a way of measuring the efficacy of the cleaning process” explains Louise Wall - Regional Health Coordinator, BPEX. As well as monitoring levels of bacteria, the time taken to perform the cleaning and disinfection stages was noted.

The study took place at Richard Ellis’ 850-sow breeding and finishing enterprise at Shire Oaks Farm in Alne, Yorkshire. To replicate the traditional cleaning method, two test buildings were pre-washed by a stockman using cold water only. Then, to investigate the effectiveness of hot water cleaning, one farrowing house was cleaned using a Kärcher HDS 7/10-4M mid-class hot water machine. Both farrowing houses were subsequently disinfected using a Kärcher’s InnoFoam System attached to the pressure washer. Providing quick coverage, this simple to use twin lance foam system for the pressure washer lets the operator apply detergent via the foam nozzle and very easily switch to the high-pressure water jet to rinse clear.

This methodology can be used

for keeping any animal housing clean, however it is especially useful in a destock situation. Here it ensures the cleanest possible environment given the time and resources available, allowing the maximum time possible for buildings to rest – the drying out and resting stage before restocking is critically important in killing any remaining diseasecausing bacteria by desiccation.

Historically, Richard Ellis’ pig buildings have been cleaned with a cold water pressure washer followed by a lime wash, however he explains how participation in the project has altered his

approach: “It has made me more aware of potential sources of infection. In future, I plan to preclean with cold water, followed by a hot power wash with detergent and then a disinfectant. Pig diseases are expensive and it is important to do all I can to prevent any infection being passed from one group to another via equipment and housing.”

To find out more about how Kärcher can make a difference to the safety, efficiency and profitability of your business, please visit www.karcher.co.uk, email cleaning@karcher.co.uk or call 01295 752142.

November 2014 | Farming Monthly | 47

| Security

British Farming Awards: Zedlock “Machinery Innovator of the Year” finalist Zedlock (Petworth, West Sussex) is pleased to announce their selection as a finalist in the “Machinery Innovator of the Year” category of the British Farming Awards. he awards, now in their second year, aim to celebrate innovative and determined farmers who have, and are, making changes to their business in a bid to successfully grow and secure a future in British agriculture. The winners will be announced at the awards

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presentation evening, this year being held at Chateau Impney Hotel, Droitwich Spa, Worcestershire, on Thursday, October 23.

Zedlock director, Bruce Robertson, explains “I invented the Zedlock because I was looking for a more secure alternative to a padlock and chain. In the yard at

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the farm I have an Ifor Williams trailer, amongst other equipment, and I was only too aware how easy it was to crop a chain with bolt cutters or smash the padlock with a hammer,” he says. “However, in creating the Zedlock I also solved two other problems; locks freezing and losing the padlock. Because the Union lock mechanism in a Zedlock has brass levers, it is much less prone to freezing than a padlock, and being integral to the gate, there is no chance of losing the padlock.”

Product Development Since the company’s launch in 2011, the range of locks has developed and expanded. Whilst the Union lock mechanism remains unchanged, developments include a fluted design for the sliding bolt, which improves the action and, 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 also offering an Industrial range – with Zedlocks to suit frames from 10mm to 80mm diameter which are supplied from stock and specials to suit gate frames of up to 150mm being 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 are all popular options. Upcoming developments include locks for shipping containers and potentially an automated version.

Zedlocks are made in England and all the final assembly work is carried out in the barn at Strood Farm. Prototypes are still made in the barn and tested on farm before going into production.

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| Fencing

Creosoted timber available at Wooden Supplies Wooden Supplies has been pressure treating timber for over a 100 years from our site based on the Althorp estate in the heart of Northamptonshire. ll of our timber is sourced locally and only from managed forests, 98% of our timber is redwood and is seasoned to below 28% moisture content, which is the British standard for pressure treatment. This allows the timber to take on the required amount of creosote whilst in the vacuum. Once it is removed from the tank the timber is a black/grey colour that once exposed to the sunlight turns that distinctive

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chocolate brown. With it being a coal tar treatment livestock will not chew the treated timber as with modern water based alternatives.

We firmly believe that pressure treated creosote is still the only tried and tested method that will withstand the condition of timbers that are used in ground contact.

We have yet to see a telegraph pole be treated with any of the modern water based alternatives.

The new “incised� and HC4 treatments in reality have no

historic data to back up the claims of a 15-20-25 year guarantee and these guarantees if the small print is read will replace any posts deemed to have failed. Many of our fencing contractors are now dubious, as these guarantees do not cover labour time and some are now embroiled in disputes with land owners and suppliers alike.

We have many glowing testaments from customers who have had to replace wire that has rusted away but the creosoted

posts are still as good as new, we recently heard from a local farmer who had moved a fence line he had erected well over 20years ago and was able to reuse the stakes we had supplied!!!

We are able to deliver nationwide via our own fleet of transport vehicles and have the ability to off load with our forklift equipped vehicle. Creosote really is the fit and forget solution to your agricultural fencing needs.

November 2014 | Farming Monthly | 49

| Forestry

Demand for Grown in Britain timber increases As the second annual Grown in Britain Week kicks off, sales of British wood products are up 7%, marking a real step change in wood culture across the UK and significant progress since the Grown in Britain initiative launched in 2013. he amount of UK woodland in management has risen to 60% this year, with 250,000 hectares of forest soon to be licensed as Grown in Britain and millions of tonnes of Grown in Britain timber working through the wood chain and into the marketplace.

The initiative continues to attract high profile support from brands such as the Kingfisher Group, Crown Estate, B&Q, Travis Perkins and STIHL, as well as securing the backing of sector bodies such as the UK Contractors Group, representing £26 billion of construction spend. This year alone: • A Grown in Britain Forest Carbon Scheme has been launched which – certified under the Woodland Carbon Code – has planted its first 100,000 trees; • Three new research projects have been launched, exploring how to add value through thermal, chemical and preservative treatments; and • A new curriculum pack for schools has been published to

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educate the next generation on the importance of forests and wood in our daily lives – available at www.forestsforthefuture.co.uk/unitoverview/our-wood-culture Sir Ian Cheshire, Group Chief Executive of Kingfisher and Chairman of the British Retail Consortium comments: “An answer to British timber sustainability lies with Grown in Britain, and the work it’s doing to promote home grown wood in order to create supply and demand for the materials we come into contact with every day. This benefits the consumer, the landowner, our woodlands and the economy.

“We’re a supporter of the project and it ties in with our aim to develop a sustainable home improvement sector that can be both profitable and better for the world in which we live.”

Small, medium and many major organisations have signed up to support Grown in Britain and its licensing scheme since it launched in July. Designed to allow the timber supply chain and the public to identify and purchase products

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produced from British timber, the scheme is the first of its kind for the UK wood market, putting it on a par with more established initiatives promoting home-grown produce in the food sector, such as Red Tractor.

Dougal Driver, CEO of Grown in Britain, explains: “80% of the timber we use in the UK comes from abroad but the message from the construction and retail sectors is clear: their preference is timber Grown in Britain.

“Recent research with the construction sector, for example, has shown that over 60% of those surveyed would be prepared to include a clause requesting the use of Grown in Britain timber in their contracts.

“Our focus this year has been on creating and launching a license scheme that highlights and promotes British timber products, and gives a guarantee of their source and origin.

“When a customer buys a Grown in Britain licensed and labelled product they have assurance that it’s home-grown here in the UK. It’s a proud mark that enables customers to buy authentic British wood products, safe in the knowledge that the forests and woods are protected and managed to the Government’s UK forestry standards.”

Currently employing 40,000 people across the UK and contributing £6.5billion to GDP, the UK’s forestry, wood processing and manufacturing sectors are a critical home-grown resource – but there’s more that could be achieved. Against a European average of 37%, there is only 13% woodland cover in the UK. Sir Harry Studholme, Chair of the Forestry Commission, said: “It’s great to see forestry and

the businesses that use timber thriving. Grown in Britain is doing a wonderful job making people aware of the importance of British forestry to our economy and society. People are connecting their love of trees with their love of wood and this helps build new markets.

“An answer to British timber sustainability lies with Grown in Britain, and the work it’s doing to promote home grown wood.”

“This is true for all woods that supply our timber - both the softwoods we use for building and our higher value hardwoods. Here in particular there’s a very special opportunity for the broadleaved woodlands that supply our hardwoods because by bringing these often neglected woodlands back into production we can improve habitats at the same time as providing new employment.

“We also need to create new woodlands to provide our timber and fuel in decades to come. This should become easier if we can show real returns on our current woodlands, and building new and profitable markets is the way to achieve this. The exciting role for Grown in Britain is to turn this vision into reality.”

The Grown in Britain initiative is about bringing together people and businesses from across the forestry, construction and retail sectors to both generate demand, and support woodland creation and management. Grown in Britain Week 2014 (13th – 19th October 2014) will be marked by a series of national events, celebrating progress to date.

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| Buildings

Startin Tractors Limited Twycross CV9 3PW Telephone : 01827 880088 Website with photographs: www.startintractors.co.uk email: sales@startintractors.co.uk www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

November 2014 | Farming Monthly | 51

| Machinery

Custom Built Kubota is the perfect choice To assist with the completion of day-to-day activities, hill farmers Michael and Sion Maiden, from Mid Wales, were looking for a particular kind of tractor. After a rugby accident left Sion paralysed and a full time wheelchair user, he needed a tractor that would provide him with ease of access and controls to suit his needs. ith the help of his local dealer, GNH Agri Ltd, the Kubota M110GX was chosen as the perfect machine to suit all of Sion’s needs. The M110GX offers a range of features for easy access and operation including intelligent technology such as PTO and RPM control and ergonomically designed displays, controls and a finger touch gears and shuttle lever. All of these are strategically located around the steering wheel and armrest for convenience.

In addition, the spacious cab design has no centre pillars and a wide rear view for unobstructed operation, while the roof hatch provides clear visibility for full height loader operations. This all meant that Sion was able to find the functionality he required, without comprising on the

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performance or efficiency he needed from a tractor.

Kubota’s M110GX offers classleading levels of performance, utilising an advanced turbo charged 4 cylinder Kubota CRS diesel engine that has been designed for greater efficiency, whilst still providing the torque and power to get the job done on any farm or field.

Further explaining his choice, Sion commented: “I chose the M110GX because of its excellent cab access and value for money.

The price for the specification when compared to similar machines was incredible - I was also very happy with the two year warranty that was included as part of the package. I use the tractor every day on the farm for livestock feeding, livestock production and all the grassland work on the hillside and it’s been excellent in

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meeting my specific needs. I trusted Robert at GNH Agri to give me a suitable tractor and he hasn’t disappointed.”

The only modification that the tractor needed to allow Sion to use it was to have a manual lever fitted to work the foot break, and this adaptation was swiftly completed by local craftsman Eifion Jones and the team at GNH Agri to ensure the Kubota tractor was seamlessly customised to Sion’s requirements.

Robert Parry from the dealership added: “Sion came to us with the belief that a Kubota tractor would be the right choice for him and we certainly encouraged that decision. Kubota is viewed as a very genuine organisation that always puts their end users first and for this reason their machines are dependable and trusted. The M110GX in

particular was a good match for Sion as it already possessed many of the features he was looking for – adding up to a tractor which he could use comfortably and conveniently.

“We only had to slightly adapt the machine slightly so that Sion could use it. Sion had every faith in us as his dealer to give him a high performance tractor and we were happy to put that faith in a Kubota machine.”

For more information on Kubota and its extensive range of solutions for the agriculture, groundcare and construction sectors visit www.kubota.co.uk or call 01844 268000.

GNH Agri Ltd has been supplying high quality farm machinery to the agricultural community since 1992. For more information please visit their website http://www.gnhagri.co.uk/.

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| Groundcare

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November 2014 | Farming Monthly | 53

| Tillage

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

Expanded versatile ELIOS range Originally introduced in 2009, in the UK the ELIOS has proved the ideal tractor for those needing a compact, lightweight but powerful tractor for jobs as diverse as working in poly tunnels on fruit farms, as a general yard tractor on livestock farms or for grounds maintenance at sports clubs. new generation of ELIOS tractors has now been introduced, but whereas the original range had just three models with power outputs from 75 to 88hp, the new ELIOS has been expanded to four models, which still start at 75hp but now includes versions with maximum power outputs of 92hp and 103hp.

The design of the new ELIOS gives it a low overall height to the top of the cab of just 2.37 metres on 380/85R tyres. However, thanks to the new design for the chassis which has a low centre of gravity, the front overhang is now some 24cm shorter, which means that whilst the wheelbase is 2.16m, even with a folded front-linkage, the overall length is just 3.82m, making the ELIOS ideal for use where access is restricted.

FPT engines The new ELIOS is powered by a 4-cylinder, 3.4 litre FPT

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turbocharged and intercooled high torque engine. This has a wide constant power range from 18002300rpm and is fitted with a viscofan and a diesel particulate filter (DPF) with automatic regeneration to meet TIER 4i emissions regulations. The top-of-the-range ELIOS 240 also features CPM (CLAAS POWER MANAGEMENT), giving the 92hp engine an additional 11hp boost in power to 103hp under certain conditions.

CPM is activated when the tractor goes above 13 km/h in gears 2, 3 or 4 in range III or if the PTO speed starts to drop.

A new feature on the ELIOS is an engine speed memory, which allows the speed to be adjusted precisely at the push of a button, which will be particularly useful for PTO work, and a second engine speed memory is also available as an option.

To meet the wide range of uses tractors of the size are used for,

four different transmissions are available for the new ELIOS. Fourwheel drive models are all fitted with a 24/24 transmission with the option of a mechanical splitter and reverser, TWINSHIFT powershift and mechanical reverser or TWINSHIFT powershift with REVERSHIFT clutchless reverser, all of which have a minimum forward speed of just 500 metres/hour. All 2-wheel drive models come with a 12/12 transmission with a mechanical reverser.

The new ELIOS is available with a choice of two hydraulic systems.

For general work, there is the option of a 59 litre/minute (l/m) pump that serves both the rear linkage and the spool valves. For more demanding work, for instance where the ELIOS will be fitted with a front loader, a two pump system is available, with a 59l/m pump that serves the spool valves and a second 26l/m pump to serve the rear linkage.

Depending on requirement, two or three mechanical spool valves can be fitted, one of which has flow rate adjustment. Alternatively four electronic spool valves are available, each with flow rate adjustment. All spool valves are also colour coded for easy connection.

Again depending on requirement, the ELIOS can also be specified with a mechanical or electronically controlled rear linkage. The standard linkage has a lift capacity of 2.6 tonnes, but this can be increased to 3.2 tonnes with an optional additional lift ram. A fully integrated optional 2.8 tonne front linkage is also available.

A new feature on the ELIOS is an engine speed memory.

The cab on the new ELIOS has been completely redesigned and the full width frame incorporates a new glass room to enhance the feeling of space and to provide good visibility over a raised front loader. The cab specification includes the choice of a mechanically or air-suspended seat, air conditioning with the the option of carbon filtration for spraying and an adjustable steering wheel.

The controls are all grouped on the right hand side of the seat.

Where a front loader is fitted, this can be controlled either hydraulically using a FLEXPILOT joystick or electronically with the ELECTROPILOT, both of which are factory fitted.

November 2014 | Farming Monthly | 55

| Machinery

Root crops cut down to size Root crops such as stubble turnips, stock grade potatoes or carrots can be an ideal, low cost source of livestock nutrition. However, using crops such as these and achieving even distribution throughout a complete diet mix can be difficult. o overcome this problem, Hi-Spec Engineering Ltd has developed the Super Chopper. Compatible with all models in both the Vertical Auger and the MixMax paddle-type diet feeder range, the Super Chopper enables root crops to be quickly and easily cut down to an optimum size for digestion, before being evenly blended into the diet mix.

The Super Chopper is mounted on the back of the Vertical Auger or MixMax diet feeder. After loading into the high capacity hopper, the roots are initially cleaned and any soil removed using a special cleaner chain. For heavily soiled crops, there is also the option to use water.

Having been cleaned, the roots are cut into small nuggets (between 25-40mm) using a spring

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loaded chopper bar. The chopped roots are then transferred into the main mixing chamber, where the mixing action of the augers or paddles ensures that the roots are fully and evenly incorporated into the rest of the ration.

The benefits of the Super Chopper are that by being able to incorporate chopped root crops into the diet mix, this avoids having to feed the roots separately using an auger bucket and also ensures that only the required amount is used, so the chopped material stays fresh.

Also the small chop size ensures that the root crop is easily digested for optimum nutritional value and because it is thoroughly incorporated into the ration, it avoids the problem of stock selectively eating.

Contact Hi-Spec for more information.

Avant trumps skidsteer for Staffs farmer When Graham Mellor and his step-mother Sheila needed to replace a 20 year old skid steer loader on their Staffordshire farm, they were delighted to discover the many advantages offered by an Avant R28 compact multi-purpose loader. urchased by Mr. Mellor's grandfather in 1949, 100 acre Windycote Farm near Stoke-on-Trent is currently home to 100 pedigree Suffolk ewes and 30 short horn suckler beef cows.

Although the farm uses a conventional tractor/loader for many heavy duty tasks, the Avant is now proving ideal for working around the many buildings where space and access are both at a premium.

Supplied by local dealer Robert Lee (Plant), the R28 is used mainly for handling large bales of straw and silage weighing up to 500 kg and, with a quick attachment, for mucking out duties with a bucket.

According to Mr. Mellor: "The Avant is much easier to drive than our old skid steer machine and its all-wheel drive and good

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ground clearance means we can now also use it in the fields."

Unlike other models in the growing Avant range, the RSeries design puts the driver on the rear section of the articulated chassis, making it more suitable for use in very confined areas where the layout makes it easier to negotiate tight turns and reverse with both accuracy and safety.

The R28 model chosen by Mr. Mellor is powered by a Kubota diesel engine developing 21kW (28 hp) via an hydrostatic, 4 wheel drive transmission.

Compared with other makes of rear-seated loader, the Avant design offers a much more compact package with the additional benefit of a telescopic boom which provides a maximum lift height of 2790 mm in the case of the R28.

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| ATV

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November 2014 | Farming Monthly | 57

| Machinery

Harvesting record CR.ushed by New Holland New Holland Agriculture smashes the current GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for most wheat harvested within eight hours with the CR10.90 combine. ew Holland Agriculture has reclaimed the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title, harvesting an impressive 797.656 tonnes of wheat in eight hours with the world’s most powerful combine: the 653hp CR10.90.

“We are extremely proud to have recaptured the Guinness World Records title for harvesting almost 800 tonnes of wheat in eight hours, shattering the previous record by more than 120 tonnes,” stated Hedley Cooper, Head of Harvesting Product Management. “This record demonstrates the unsurpassed capacity and productivity of the CR10.90, especially as the current record of 675.84 tonnes was broken after just six hours and 36 minutes!”

Record breaking performance The record was set on 15th August 2014 at HR Bourn and Sons Farm in Grange de Lings,

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near Wragby, Lincolnshire, United Kingdom. The field was sown with Santiago wheat in the autumn of 2013 before it was chosen in May 2014 for the record breaking attempt, which meant that it represented real world growing conditions.

The record breaking day’s harvesting, which started at 11:17am, was characterised by changing weather conditions, with the ambient temperature ranging from 18-21°C and light showers occurring from 17:30pm onwards.

The CR10.90’s average throughput was 99.7 tonnes/hour and peaked at 135 tonnes/hour in a crop yielding an average of 9.95 tonnes/ha and an average moisture content of 16.2%. The record was achieved using a mere 1.12 litres of fuel per tonne of grain harvested, with the straw chopper engaged throughout the day.

The entire day’s activities were overseen and verified by Mr Pravin

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Patel, the official GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS Record Adjudicator, who was assisted by Alan Robson, Chaplain for Agriculture of Lincolnshire as the second independent witness.

The record-breaking CR10.90.

Packed with advanced harvesting technology The record-breaking CR10.90 is equipped with New Holland’s unique Twin Rotor® technology featuring Twin Pitch High Performance rotors combined with the Dynamic Feed Roll™ system (DFR), which proved indispensable in breaking the record especially as the weather conditions deteriorated in the late afternoon.

Powered by the award-winning Cursor 16 engine, which develops some 653hp, the CR10.90 is also compliant with the Tier 4B emissions regulations, using advanced ECOBlue™ HI-eSCR technology to meet them. Traction, in the changeable conditions, was guaranteed thanks to the unique SmartTrax™ rubber track system with Terraglide™ suspension.

The extra-long 10 metre unloading auger and super-fast 142 litres/minute unloading speed made quick work of the constantly filling grain tank. The CR10.90 was also equipped with IntelliSteer™ fully integrated auto guidance,

which ensures accuracy of 1-2 cm optimising the effectiveness of the 13.7 metre 840CD draper-header during every pass, the whole day long.

“We are extremely proud to have recaptured the Guinness World Records title for harvesting almost 800 tonnes of wheat in eight hours, shattering the previous record by more than 120 tonnes,” “The Guinness World Records title has further reinforced the CR10.90 combine as New Holland’s flagship harvesting product, and cemented its position as the world’s leading combine harvester,” stated Carlo Lambro, Brand President of New Holland Agriculture. “The record-breaking combine, built in our Centre of Harvesting Excellence in Zedelgem, Belgium, is the world’s first Class 10 rotary combine and exemplifies the excellence of Twin Rotor® technology, developed by New Holland 40 years ago. We are offering our customers the best possible solutions and continually improving our Brand’s performance and results in the combine business.”

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| ATV

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

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

LRS (Lincs) Ltd Unit 9-10 Belton Lane Ind Est Belton Lane, Grantham Lincolnshire NG31 9HN Tel: 01476 565999 www.lrs-uk.com

November 2014 | Farming Monthly | 59

| ATV

MK Dons Handover: Left to right: Daniel Cole, Corporate Partnerships Manager, MK Dons - Shane Nedley, Safety Systems Co-ordinator, MK Dons - George Cheeseman, Sales and Marketing Manager, Suzuki ATV & Marine Division

Suzuki ATV helps kick off sponsorship deal As part of Suzuki GB’s title sponsorship of MK Dons Football Club, the company has delivered an Ozark 250 ATV for use at the stadium by maintenance staff. arlier this year, it was announced that Suzuki had become the official title partner to the club, which would see the worldfamous Suzuki logo feature on its team shirts throughout the 2014/15 and 2015/16 seasons and would result in a whole package of advertising and branding opportunities.

Now, Suzuki’s ATV division has further cemented its relationship with the club by providing an Ozark 250 complete with a trailer on a long-term loan for the club’s ground staff to use around the stadium complex. “We’re so thankful to Suzuki for providing us with an Ozark 250,” says Daniel Cole, Corporate Partnerships Manager at MK Dons, “The ATV will prove to be an invaluable

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resource, making day-to-day work easier – particularly for our stadium maintenance team. This will include day to day duties including setting out traffic cones and barriers in preparation for home matches.”

The Ozark 250 – Suzuki’s introductory utility ATV – is widely praised for its maneuverability and light steering and with handy carrying racks and a remarkable towing capacity for its size, is set to make light work of the team’s daily demands.

This loan agreement further demonstrates Suzuki’s support to the MK Dons as George Cheeseman, Sales and Marketing Manager – Suzuki ATV and Marine Division, explains, “We are proud to continue this exciting partnership with the Dons. We see

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this latest agreement as further reflection of our commitment to supporting the club as a whole so as to ensure continued success on and off the pitch.

“I’m confident that the Ozark 250 is the perfect machine for their needs and look forward to hearing

how it helps to improve efficiency and productivity at the club.”

For more information about Suzuki GB and its range of hardworking ATVs, visit www.suzuki-atv.co.uk or follow @SuzukiATVsUK on Twitter.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Motors

Isuzu Salisbury Wiltshire 01722 412222 www.isuzu.co.uk

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

Mark Weatherhead Ltd Cambridgeshire 01954 210355 www.markweatherhead.co.uk

Isuzu North London Middlesex 0208 8046135 www.isuzunorthlondon.com

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

MRG Chippenham Wiltshire 01249 443300 www.mrgcars.co.uk

Riverside Eastern Ltd North Yorkshire 01723 862242 www.riversidemotors.co.uk

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

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

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

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Archie Moss Leicestershire 01530 553504 www.archiemoss.co.uk

November 2014 | Farming Monthly | 61

| Motors

Isuzu UK teams up with Fferm Ffactor for 6th series Isuzu UK will once again be saying ‘Shwmae’ (‘Hello’) to S4C, as it returns as headline-sponsor of hugely-popular Welsh-speaking agricultural reality television show, Fferm Ffactor for a sixth consecutive series.

he Japanese pick-up manufacturer will provide the winner of the hit television show, broadcasting now, with a brandnew Isuzu D-Max pick-up.

Fferm Ffactor aims to find the best farming talent in Wales and presents 10 contestants with a series of daunting challenges, which test their practical skills, farming expertise and business acumen.

William Brown, General Manager at Isuzu UK, commented: “Fferm Ffactor has really struck a chord with rural audiences ever since the first series in 2009 and it continued to attract new audiences in new ways. In 2013 it was one of the most popular choices on S4C’s online, on-demand service, Clic. Farming is a critically important industry across Wales and Isuzu is delighted to once again help Fferm Ffactor to find the stars that make it tick.

“Isuzu UK is proud that the new series will

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once again finish with the winner driving off in an Isuzu D-Max. Gwenno Pugh, last year’s winner, can certainly testify to its qualities as a tough, dependable and refined workhorse,” concludes Brown.

Gwenno Pugh, a livestock farmer, was Fferm Ffactor’s first ever female winner. Based in Gwynedd, the 28-year old drove away from the series finale in a fully-specified Isuzu D-Max Yukon.

The 2014 series will see new presenter, Ifan Jones Evans, take over the reins to provide the contestants with support, laughs and a shoulder to cry on. This year’s competition includes cattle, dairy and agricultural farmers, as well as the youngest-ever participant, 20year old Gethin Eifion.

The D-Max is available in three body styles – single, extended and double cab – with prices starting from £14,749 (CVOTR) for the entry-

Ifan Jones Evans takes over the reins of Fferm Ffactor 2014 sponsored by Isuzu

level single cab 4x2 rising to £25,995 (CVOTR) for the special edition Isuzu D-Max Blade Auto.

The Isuzu D-Max is fitted with a super-efficient 2.5-litre twin-turbo diesel engine, producing 163 PS and 400 Nm of torque and able to tow a class-leading 3.5-tonnes (braked), which can be mated to a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission. Every new D-Max sold comes as standard with the company’s pioneering five-year / 125,000-mile warranty.

Free motoring for mother and her Outlander PHEV A mum-of-two from Christchurch is enjoying free motoring, thanks to the installation of solar panels on her home to power her Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV). oz Drinkwater doesn’t pay a penny for the electricity she uses during the day, which means she can charge her PHEV and drive without having to pay for fuel.

The family-sized SUV uses both electric and petrol power. Unlike non plug-in hybrid vehicles, the Outlander PHEV can travel substantially further on battery power – 32.5 miles – more than enough to accommodate Roz’s journeys, whether it’s the school-run, weekly shop or visiting her mum.

Roz said: “There’s plenty of battery power to do everything I need to do. I just stick it on charge when I get home and I never need to go to a petrol station. It’s brilliant, I absolutely love it. Even if you take away how economical it is, I would still love the car. It doesn’t feel like you’re driving an electric car, it’s really

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comfortable.”

The impressive electric range of the PHEV gives the vehicle significant environmental credentials. It emits just 44g/km of CO2 and the official combined fuel consumption figure is 148mpg.

Roz bought the vehicle from Poole Mitsubishi in July and has only filled it up once since then. The solar panels on the family home are on a 20-year lease and as part of the deal, their electricity is free during the daytime.

“I’m literally running it for free,” said Roz, who has an 11-year-old son and 15-year-old daughter.

“There’s no road tax because of how environmentally friendly it is and I’m not paying for charging it. It’s fantastic.”

Roz added: “It’s the perfect car for me. It’s got great boot space for all the children’s stuff and the dog. It blends the practicality and economy with space and comfort. It’s great.”

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| Motors

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November 2014 | Farming Monthly | 63

| Motors

Working with you to bring you more style and better performance.

Rugged it may be, but the Amarok pick-up offers car-like driving and a refined interior with premium styling and functional design. The comfortable interior and convenience of an optional eight-speed automatic gearbox mean it’s as comfortable in town as it is off-road.

With its powerful 2.0-litre TDI engines and the dynamic all-terrain benefits of the intelligent 4MOTION® four-wheeldrive, it will take you anywhere you need to go. Offering maximum payload of 1,145kg and towing capacity of up to 3,200kg, it boasts the widest load area in its class so you can fit in a Euro pallet sideways.

Call us today to book a test drive or pop in to ask for more details.

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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.

Available for Amarok registrations before December 31st, 2014, subject to availability. Indemnities may be required. Subject to status. This offer may be varied or withdrawn at any

64 | Farming Monthly | November 2014

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| Motors

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

Telephone: 0208 045 3483.

Listers (Coventry) Van Centre 347-367 Bedworth Road, Longford, Coventry, West Midlands.

Telephone: 01905 670 999.

Find us on your sat-nav using N11 3UT.

Find us on your sat-nav using CV6 6BN.

www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/alandaynewsouthgate

www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/listerscoventry

Greenhous Volkswagen Van Centre

JCT600 Van Centre (Sheffield)

Ennerdale Road, Harlescott, Shrewsbury, Shropshire.

Telephone: 01743 384303.

Europa Close, Europa Link, Sheffield.

Telephone: 0114 404 0028.

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

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

www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/greenhous

www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/jct600sheffield

Listers Van Centre Worcestershire

JCT600 Van Centre (York)

North Bank, Berry Hill Industrial Estate, Droitwich.

Telephone: 01905 670 999.

Centurion Park, Clifton Moor, York.

Telephone: 01904 848227.

Find us on your sat-nav using WR9 9AU.

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

www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/listersworcestershire

www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/JCT600York

Volkswagen Van Centre (Birmingham)

JCT600 Van Centre (Hull)

St Stephens Street, Birmingham, West Midlands.

Telephone: 0121 546 0069.

Saxon Way, Priory Park West, Hessle, Hull, East Yorkshire.

Telephone: 01482 908620.

Find us on your sat-nav using B6 4RG.

Find us on your sat-nav using HU13 9PB.

www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/birmingham

www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/JCT600Hull

Greenhous Volkswagen Van Centre (Bilston) Trinity Road, Bilston, Wolverhampton. Telephone: 01902 219303.

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

6p per mile (plus VAT) charged for mileage travelled in excess of the contracted mileage. Available on contract hire or finance lease terms. Available to over 18s in the UK only. time. Terms and conditions apply. Finance providers may pay us for introducing you to them. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle Finance, Freepost VWFS.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

November 2014 | Farming Monthly | 65

| Motors

Perkins Garages Ltd Essex Tel: 01376 550899

www.perkinsgarages.co.uk

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Pinkstones Subaru Staffordshire 01782 711661

www.pinkstones.subaru.co.uk

Cambridge Subaru Cambridgeshire Tel: 01223 554055

www.cambridgesubaru.co.uk

MRG Chippenham Wiltshire 01249 443300 www.mrgcars.co.uk

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Nissan Qashqai: innovation & excitement times two million Less than eight years after inventing the crossover segment, the Nissan Qashqai has once again made automotive history after production passed two million units in record time. ith Nissan’s unrivalled package of quality, styling and technology, the Qashqai has reached its latest manufacturing milestone quicker than any other model in the history of the UK car industry.

Designed, engineered and built in Nissan’s UK facilities for European customers, this latest landmark caps a remarkable 2014 for the Qashqai, with January’s launch of the new generation model sparking a string of accolades including What Car? magazine’s coveted Car of the Year.

Paul Willcox, Chairman, Nissan Europe, said: “The Qashqai is helping Nissan to go from strength to strength in Europe. Two million customers can’t be wrong. This is further evidence of their trust in our brand. Thank you to all of our loyal customers and I congratulate all my colleagues in Sunderland for reaching this latest milestone.

“The Qashqai is one of 12 new models we have launched in the past 12 months in Europe, which has given Nissan the strongest and most cohesive line-up in our history.”

The two millionth Qashqai to roll off the production line was a magnetic red model in the new n-tec grade which is destined for a UK customer. Introduced last month, the new grade includes unique new styling features as

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well as Nissan Safety Shield technologies like Forward Emergency Braking, Traffic Sign Recognition, Lane Departure Warning and High Beam Assist.

Nissan has invested £534 million in the design, development and production of Qashqai in the UK, supporting more than 11,000 jobs in the UK car industry. Of the two million Qashqais made in Sunderland since December 2006, 85% (1,706,633) have been exported to 132 international markets, from the Congo to Qatar.

UK Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, the Rt Hon Dr Vince Cable MP, said: “Nissan is one of the driving forces behind the UK’s world-renowned automotive industry. They currently employ more than 11,000 people across the UK and have invested more than £500m in the innovation, design and production of this car, directly supporting the local and national economies. The UK automotive industry is thriving. Last year, we increased our production to more than 1.5 million cars in the UK – that’s a car rolling off the production line every 20 seconds.

“Through the UK government’s industrial strategy we are backing the automotive sector as it goes from strength to strength. We are providing the right environment to give

businesses the confidence to invest and create high-skilled jobs.”

Qashqai is made alongside the all-electric LEAF on Line 1 at Nissan Sunderland Plant, which has been on round-the-clock, three-shift production since 2010 in order to meet customer demand, with a car currently rolling off the production line every 62 seconds, or 58 per hour.

Fundamental to the Qashqai’s development were Nissan's European Design Centre in Paddington and European Technical Centre in Cranfield, Bedfordshire. The popularity of Qashqai has also helped Nissan to reach record market share in the UK, with sales and marketing operations based in Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire. More than 11,500 people are employed in total at these sites and in UK dealerships, supporting a further 26,000 jobs in the UK supply chain.

Total global production of the Qashqai now tops 2.5 million, with the first generation Qashqai also made by Nissan in China and Japan. From 2015 the new Qashqai will also be manufactured in Nissan’s plant in St. Petersburg for domestic sales in Russia.

The Qashqai is now closing in on the Micra as the highest volume car in the history of Nissan Sunderland Plant, with 2,368,704 Micras made in Sunderland over an 18-year period.

November 2014 | Farming Monthly | 67

| Motors

NEW DISCOVERY SPORT THE FIRST IN A NEW GENERATION

Jaguar Land Rover confirms its all new Discovery Sport for Brazil facility Jaguar Land Rover have confirmed, at the Sao Paulo International Motor Show, that its breakthrough Land Rover Discovery Sport will be one of the first models to be built at its new R$750m (£240m) local manufacturing facility in Itatiaia, Brazil. he new factory, which will see a total investment of R$750m (£240m) by the end of 2020, will supplement UK production and have the capacity to build 24,000 vehicles annually for the Brazilian market. With the first vehicle driving off the production line in 2016, 400 jobs will be created initially and this is expected to almost double by the end of the decade.

In addition, Jaguar Land Rover will also utilise Itatiaia’s access to the local supply base and skilled workforce – one of the main reasons Jaguar Land Rover selected its location – for nearly 1,000 jobs that will also be created across the local supply chain.

With all agreements in place, following the announcement of the facility in December 2013, Jaguar Land Rover will start construction of the new facility at the end of the year, making it one step closer to becoming the only British car maker to open a local manufacturing facility in Brazil. This new factory will be Jaguar Land Rover’s first wholly-owned manufacturing plant outside the United Kingdom.

Speaking at the Sao Paulo Auto Show, Phil Popham, Group Marketing Director, said: “Brazil and the surrounding regions are very important to Jaguar Land Rover. With customers in Brazil showing an increasing appetite for highly capable premium products,

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68 | Farming Monthly | November 2014

we are proud to confirm that our new breakthrough Discovery Sport will be manufactured at our new Brazilian facility.”

Jaguar Land Rover is committed to its ambitious plans for increasing the manufacturing footprint of the company to create additional capacity. This new manufacturing facility will play an important role in supporting the significant growth opportunity identified in Brazil and across other South American markets.

The all-new Discovery Sport is the world’s most versatile and capable premium compact SUV and is the first member of the new Discovery family. Featuring 5+2 seating, the Discovery Sport has a footprint no larger than existing 5-seat premium SUV’s, resulting in the ultimate use of interior space.

With a responsible business model in the UK, Jaguar Land Rover is getting ready to launch its Inspiring Tomorrow’s Workforce programme as part of its CSR strategy in Brazil.

This looks at improving the employability of the unemployed from the local community of Itatiaia and nearby Resende with the end goal of preparing them for work. It is a programme that Jaguar Land Rover has already successfully piloted in the UK with a number of unemployed gaining employment or an apprenticeship within the company and its wider supply chain.

Jaguar Land Rover in Brazil Jaguar Land Rover has had a presence in the Brazilian market for more than 20 years. Its national sales company is based in Sao Paulo, employing almost 100 people. By March 2015 there will be 42 dealers across Brazil as part of the company’s further expansion plans.

“Brazil and the surrounding regions are very important to Jaguar Land Rover. With customers in Brazil showing an increasing appetite for highly capable premium products, we are proud to confirm that our new breakthrough Discovery Sport will be manufactured at our new Brazilian facility.”

Since 2012, the Jaguar dealer network has grown from two to 18 showrooms and in 2013, Jaguar sales were up 385 per cent year-on-year making it the fastest growing luxury brand in Brazil.

So far in 2014, Jaguar Land Rover has sold 7,346 vehicles in Brazil year-to-date, with the strongest-selling models being the Range Rover Evoque, Range Rover Sport and Discovery.

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DESIGN DNA REBOOTED Call us today to book a test drive.

Inside and outside seamlessly blend into a vehicle that clearly communicates its Discovery DNA whilst firmly looking forward.

Armstong Massey - York 01937 531531 armstrongmassey.landrover.co.uk

Carrs - Truro 01872 263377 carrs.truro.landrover.co.uk

Hunters - Southampton 02380 215800 hunters.southampton.landrover.co.uk

Matford - Exeter 01392 825825 matford.exeter.landrover.co.uk

Guy Salmon - Knutsford 01565 632525 guysalmon.knutsford.landrover.co.uk

Rocar Moores - Huddersfield 01484 582817 rocarmoores.landrover.co.uk

Barretts - Ashford 01233 506070 barretts.ashford.landrover.co.uk

Hunters - Norwich 01603 944836 hunters.norwich.landrover.co.uk

Barretts - Canterbury 01227 475475 barretts.canterbury.landrover.co.uk

Copley - Halifax 01422 520528 copley.landrover.co.uk

Ripon Landrover - North Yorkshire 01765 646464 ripon.landrover.co.uk

Lloyds - Kelso 01573 224345 lloyd.kelso.landrover.co.uk

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November 2014 | Farming Monthly | 69

| Motors

Ford delivers most powerful diesel Kuga ever Ford offers most powerful diesel Kuga SUV; 2.0-litre TDCi engine delivers 180PS and 400Nm of torque. he Ford Kuga is now available with a significant range of upgrades that include the smart utility vehicle’s most powerful diesel powertrain to date.

Improvements to the Kuga’s diesel and petrol engine range also deliver lower CO2 emissions. Kuga is offered with more advanced technologies as standard that help reduce fuel consumption and lower emissions, including Auto-Start-Stop and Active Grille Shutter.

“Ford has updated the Kuga range with models that deliver more power and lower emissions. Tiger Eye metallic is a bold new colour not previously seen on any Ford vehicle, and SYNC with AppLink will help ensure drivers can be more connected on the move while keeping their eyes on the road and their hands on the wheel,” said Roelant de Waard, vice president, Marketing, Sales and Service, Ford of Europe.

Ford’s 2.0-litre TDCi diesel powered 95 per cent of the Kugas sold in the UK during the first nine months of 2014. Ford has now increased peak power of the engine by 17PS to 180PS

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and peak torque to 400Nm, up from 340Nm. This engine choice will deliver the most pulling power ever for Kuga, particularly when combined with Ford’s Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system that is chosen by most customers.

Ford is introducing its new 1.5-litre EcoBoost petrol engine to Kuga, reducing CO2 emissions to 143g/km from 154g/km – an improvement of more than seven per cent over the outgoing 1.6-litre EcoBoost engine*. Ford will also offer a 150PS 2.0-litre TDCi option that delivers 122g/km CO2* – an improvement of 12 per cent.

Smart utility vehicle Ford SYNC with AppLink will now enable drivers to voice-activate apps, while keeping their eyes on the road and their hands on the wheel. These already include leading musicstreaming service Spotify, Audioteka, Glympse and Radioplayer.

Ford’s latest sales data revealed a high takerate for Kuga’s advanced driver assistance technologies: around a third of vehicles were sold with Rear View Camera and more than half

featured Active Park Assist technology that helps drivers to parallel park.

On top of the Cruise Control with Adjustable Speed Limiter, that is offered as standard on the Titanium series and above, Kuga is also available with Adaptive Cruise Control including Forward Alert, which warns drivers if they are travelling too close to the vehicle in front.

Another standard technology is the Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, which warns if any of the tyres lose significant pressure during a journey. Further available technologies include Hands-Free Tailgate,Blind Spot Information System,Active City Stop,Lane Keeping Aid, Lane Keeping Alert, Auto High Beam,Driver Alert, and Traffic Sign Recognition.

Since Ford’s new Kuga’s launch in the UK, supplied by Ford’s Valencia assembly plant in Spain, more than 200,000 vehicles have been sold across Europe.

Ford’s expanding range of SUVs in Europe already includes the all-new EcoSport and will also next year include the charismatic, spacious and smart Ford Edge.

Kia offers flexible rental solution Launching at 12 dealerships across the UK, Kia Motors UK Ltd is now able to offer a flexible rental solution to both retail and business customers – Kia Rental. Flexibility for the individual customer is the key element in the Kia Rental programme. rials of the scheme have already proved popular for those dealerships with business customers. David Dench, Managing Director of Triangle of Chesterfield says Kia Rental offers a competitive choice. ‘Many of the businesses using Kia Rental have said that if our quality of service is as strong as that of our fleet sales, they would prefer to come to us as it out performs other providers.’

All models in the range are available on the programme with each dealer determining the exact makeup of their own individual fleet. With short holding periods and high preparation levels, the customer experience is similar to

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driving a brand new car.

The range extends from the Picanto - Kia’s small city car, the frugal Rio, the ever popular cee’d range as well as the family focused Carens MPV. 4x4 options are covered by the Sportage and the larger Sorento.

Automatic transmission and factory fitted sat nav systems are available on selected cars. Some dealers have added tow-bars to all-wheel drive models to really create a flexible range to meet customers’ diverse needs. Child seats are also available on request.

John Hargreaves, Head of Fleet and Remarketing at Kia commented, “The Fleet area is an

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important part of the business for Kia and focusing on what our customers want and adapting to their needs is an important part of growing the business.

“Kia Rental has had a positive start, we’ve even had one rental customer who was so impressed with the car he came back and

bought it. The overriding feedback from customers has been that service not price counts. Kia Rental reflects a grown-up attitude to business’ fleet needs.” Added Hargreaves.

For full details on Kia Rental and to book online visit www.kia.co.uk/rental.

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Garland Great Wall Hampshire Tel: 01252 367373

David Cook Motors Lancashire Tel: 0161 624 1441

www.winchestermotorgroup.co.uk

www.davidcookmotors.co.uk

Hepworth Motors West Yorkshire Tel: 01484 683172

Ryedale Garages Ltd North Yorkshire Tel: 01751 431343

Deal of Kelverdon Essex Tel: 01376 570331

Dowleys Oxfordshire Tel: 01993 842345

www.hepworthgreatwall.com

www.ryedalegarages.co.uk

www.dealofkelverdon.co.uk

www.dowleys.co.uk/greatwall