October 2017 Farming Monthly National

INSIDE: Farm Business Innovation Show 2017 approaches page 26

Farming

MONTHLY National

October 2017

Also in this issue...

Security

| 6 simple steps to beat equipment theft page 36

Pumpkins, strawberries & flowers Also inside this month..

Pembrokeshire farmer embraces horticulture page 08

Specialist insurance p58

Perry’s celebrate 70 years p14

Farm safety in the spotlight p07

PLUS: Forestry | Education | Shows | Buildings | Machinery | Energy | ATV | Motors

CONTENTS October 2017

FEATURES 13

14

10 Arable Drone4rent, CropTec returns...

14 Grain 70 year anniversary for Perry’s

22

32 Slurry

26

42 SALTEX

Making best use of a valuable resource

36 Security

Show preview

44 Education

6 simple steps to beat equipment theft, ATVTrac relaunched

Coleg Cambria Llysfasi, NSC welcomes new Principle

18 Buildings The perfect grain store

20 UK Dairy Day Post show review

25 Fencing Fencing news

26 Feature Farm Business Innovation Show

27 Sheep Sheep gene insights

04 | Farming Monthly | October 2017

REGULARS 06 News Brexit hits farming, Farm safety...

08 On Topic Pembroke farmer embraces horticulture

28 Energy Latest energy news

46 Machinery Midlands Machinery Show and more

51 ATV ATV news...covered.

54 Motors Latest motors news

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

28

Agriculture. Covered.

EDITOR Andrew Poulton editor@farmingmonthly.com

Pembrokeshire farmer embraces horticulture

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ISSN 2044-0190 (print) ISSN 2044-0200 (digital)

October 2017 | Farming Monthly | 05

| News

The complicated web of interests as Brexit hits farming Chris Horseman, Editorial Director, Informa Agribusiness Intelligence.

s the EU’s chief negotiator Michel Barnier made clear last month, the clock is very much ticking on negotiations for the UK’s exit from the European Union. The amount that needs to be discussed and resolved remains huge, and one area set to be very complicated indeed are the agriculture and food production industries.

Supply chains between the UK and the EU are incredibly intertwined and trade of finished products is vast. There is a received wisdom that the UK will be negotiating with a ‘single entity’ of the European Union. However this ignores the much more complicated and nuanced picture of different interest groups amongst the EU’s remaining 27 member states.

So based on the interests of

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farmers across the EU, what kind of deal can the UK expect to get as Brexit negotiations continue?

There is an argument that many farmers would benefit from as many restrictions being placed on the UK’s ability to export agricultural products to the EU as possible. This includes the French beef industry which looks set to profit from less British competition.

They might also push for a harder border between the UK and Ireland, spotting the potential to fill the vacuum in markets that British beef might soon be less competitive in.

However, there are many more reasons to think that a deal that restricts trade too much might actually be unpopular with the EU’s farmers. Many rely on the UK market as a key destination for their products. Farmers across the EU will likely already be lobbying their national governments to influence negotiation towards the result that they want to see, particularly those that could see sales and profits slashed. The

06 | Farming Monthly | October 2017

National Farmers Union here in the UK is certainly already making sure it has its interests represented at the negotiating table.

For example, countries such as Germany and the Netherlands rely on the UK as a key agricultural export market. In fact, the Netherlands last year was the biggest EU food exporter to the UK, with an estimated value of over £5 billion. Many will argue that they have little to gain from having to find replacement markets elsewhere. Irish farmers in particular will be arguing against the introduction of a hard border that makes trade with the UK much more difficult.

What is important to remember is that different farming sectors in different member states are likely to have their own unique views on what kind of a deal should be struck with the UK as it leaves the EU. It will be interesting therefore to see where farming groups are most able to get the ear of their national governments to push their specific agendas. The consequences for this shape the effect on both farmers and consumers, who face the prospect of price and product changes in their local supermarkets.

Plans for the agribusiness sector post Brexit are still up in the air, but one thing is clear resorting to WTO tariffs for imports and exports will be catastrophic for

farmers on both sides of the Brexit divide and will have far-reaching consequences for the UK economy. The absence of a deal would in itself be a bad deal for agribusiness across both the UK and the EU, and consumers would also expect to see prices rise quite dramatically.

There are many more reasons to think that a deal that restricts trade too much might actually be unpopular with the EU’s farmers

There is still time to negotiate a deal that benefits both the UK and EU’s farmers, but the ticking of the clock should not be ignored. For those of us watching how these negotiations progress, one possible indicator of the end result will be which farming groups are lobbying the most, and which are successfully getting the attention of their governments. With so little hard information coming from either sides of the negotiations, farmers and the farming industry could well be one of the few indications we have as to the future relationship between the UK and the EU.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| News

Warning after 30 people die on farms in just 12 months An agricultural risk expert is urging farmers to be vigilant after new figures show 30 people were killed on farms in just 12 months – making agriculture the most dangerous industry to work in. igures from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have revealed that in 2016/17, agriculture had the highest rate of fatal injury, around 18 times higher than the All Industry rate*.

The main causes of death were ‘struck by vehicles’ (30 per cent), ‘trapped by something collapsing’ (20 per cent), ‘struck by an object’ (17 per cent), ‘contact with electricity’ (10 per cent), ‘falling from a height’ (7 per cent), and ‘injured by an animal’ (7 per cent).

Richard Wade, of Lycetts Risk Management Services, said: “It is worrying that agriculture remains one of the most dangerous industries, with the high fatality rate far-exceeding other industries.

“HSE’s research shows that vehicle-related activities consistently lead to more deaths than any other category, and that half of the workers killed by

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something collapsing were taking part in activities involving vehicles and machinery.

“So, while some of these deaths have been the result of freak accidents, many could have been prevented. Although this is a sad fact, this gives us hope that, with better practice on farms and safer use of machinery, incidents like this could become rarer.

“It is also promising to see that, although the fatal injury rate for agriculture has shown no clear trend over the past 35 years, there are signs of improvement over the past five years.

“Hopefully this is down to farmers being more vigilant about safety and risk assessments – but we still have a way to go.”

Agriculture has a 7.61 fatal injury rate per 100,000 workers – six times that of the construction sector.

Whilst 27 of the past year’s deaths involved workers, three were members of the public.

The age of the victims varies hugely, with the youngest being three and the oldest, 80.

Nearly half of the workers killed in agriculture were over 65 (13 out of 27 deaths) and more than 85 per cent of workers killed were over the age of 45.

Richard added: “What strikes me is the high death rate of older workers. Health and safety is a fundamental requirement of any farming operation, no matter how small or well-established it is, and minimising risk should be top priority.

“It is also alarming that selfemployed farmers make up a large proportion of deaths; 67 per cent 20 out of 30 – of those who died on farms were self-employed, whilst 23 per cent were employees and 10 per cent were members of the public.

“There is a danger that farmers who work for themselves harbour a perception that they do not need to carry out the necessary risk assessments or abide by the health and safety regulations, as they don’t have any employees or have been farming in a certain way for decades. But, as this research shows, this can have devastating consequences.

“It may also be a case of farmers, due to economic constraints, are having to manage

Richard Wade

difficult and labour-heavy jobs by themselves or with limited resources – and are therefore putting themselves at increased risk.

“It is imperative that farmers take health and safety seriously and do their utmost to protect themselves, their employees and the public, as well as procuring comprehensive insurance cover in case a tragic incident like this does occur.” *The figures for 2016/17 are provisional, covering the period between April 1 2017 and March 31 2017.

For information on keeping your farm safe, visit hse.gov.uk/agriculture.

To find out more about Lycetts or obtain further information about farm insurance, visit lycetts.co.uk

October 2017 | Farming Monthly | 07

| On Topic

Pumpkins, strawberries and flowers Pembrokeshire farmer embraces horticulture

Tucked away just outside of Haverfordwest in the beautiful Pembrokeshire countryside and just 5 miles from the coast is Brooksgrove farm. Normally when we think of a farm the usual livestock or dairy business comes to mind, but here you will find neither cow nor sheep. rooksgrove Farm is a small family run enterprise and has been in the Rees family since the 1950s. It was originally farmed as a small mixed farm supplying local customers with milk, meat, poultry, eggs and vegetables.

But, like many small farms using this pre-war model of farming, it became increasing difficult to make a living and the farm slowly fell into disrepair.

In 2011 the farm switched to horticultural production and now the third generation of the Rees family is growing a range of seasonal produce including, daffodils, strawberries, raspberries, gooseberries and pumpkins. They have also created a new native woodland by planting over 4,000 trees, as part of a Glastir Woodland scheme.

Speaking about the switch to horticultural production, Farmers’ Union of Wales member Gary Rees said: “ I chose horticulture as I have an interest in growing things and get much satisfaction from seeing something grow from a seed. Also, I felt that the modest acreage at Brooksgrove Farm would be more likely to earn a living by growing smaller areas of higher value crops.”

Today the family grow around 7 acres of daffodils, which is approximately 42 tonnes of bulbs. There are 20 varieties, the bulk of which are traditional yellow daffodils, with smaller quantities of ornamental narcissus. This gives

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08 | Farming Monthly | October 2017

them a flower season from January until late April, with most of them being supplied to Puffin Produce . Their beautiful Welsh Daffodils are now also available to order online as a gift sent straight from the farm.

To cover the summer season, Gary grows two acres of soft fruit, which includes five varieties of strawberries, three varieties of raspberries and one variety of gooseberries.

The season at Brooksgrove Farm lasts from about the beginning of June until the beginning of August, with most of their sales coming from the ‘Pick your own’ scheme and a small quantity going as wholesale.

Never afraid to try something new, Gary ventured into cut flowers for the first time this year, setting aside an acre to start with. “I thought I’d give it a go and some of it went very well, other aspects not so much. What did surprise me though was the interest from local florists and I look forward to continue working with them to develop the range of flowers we grow here,” said Gary.

Diversifying further Gary planted two acres of apples (400 trees) between 2016 and 2017 for eating and cider production. There are ten varieties of trees on two different rootstocks, which will give a small crop of apples in the first few years with output expected to increase after 4 to 5 years.

As summer turns to autumn, the green fields at Brooksgrove slowly change into a delightful blanket of patchwork orange. Three acres of

the farm are dedicated to eight different varieties of pumpkins, which were chosen for their size and colour.

Most of the produce is sold through the Pumpkin Patch which opens middle of October and even though it looked like it was going to be a bumpy ride for the crop this year, Gary is pleased with the outcome.

“We lost a lot of pumpkin plants with the wet and windy start to June this year. Fortunately, the bulk of the plants were planted a week earlier in a different field and have produced a good crop. We’re now getting ready to harvest them and look forward to welcoming everyone back to the farm to chose their favourite pumpkin to take home,” he said.

And like on any other farm, there is no such thing as an average day and the jobs are endless. “I just put my nose out of the door and there is a job to be done - ploughing, harrowing , planting, potting, mowing, building, digging, mulching, pruning, picking, packing, selling, delivering, website, social media, paperwork etc. - the list never ends.

“This time of year I would like to be finishing planting daffodil bulbs, pruning raspberries and getting the Pumpkin Patch ready. In future years this will also be apple harvest time as well as selling the last of the cut flowers before the frosts come,” he says.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| On Topic

Well on the way to success now, things have not always been easy and stumbling blocks have been many. “The two major problems have been the weather and trying to maintain a cash flow, whilst growing the business. Summer 2012 was very wet and saw a loss of 80-90% of the strawberry crop and an almost complete loss of the first trial of pumpkins.

“Add to this a poorer than expected first year daffodil yield and the well-publicised lending constraints on small firms by the banks it was a very difficult time. And this was just our second year of trading. And yes, I had given up the day job,” recalls Gary.

Looking forward to the next five years the family business is aiming to increase the amount of processing of their primary produce to help reduce wastage and add value. They’re also looking to increase online sales and develop the cut flowers.

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“We are just putting the finishing touches to our 6,000 sq ft nursery and will be using it for the propagation of our own plants. As a small business it is always difficult to compete with the prices of the larger growers and importers in a wholesale environment.

“But by being a grower-retailer and engaging directly with the customer, it is possible to have a viable farming enterprise on a smaller scale and still be competitive with pricing.

“If we could just have a greater commitment from local and national government to support local procurement then this would be a huge boost to rural enterprises of any scale,” said Gary.

FUW Deputy President Brian Thomas, who recently visited Brooksgrove Farm, said: “It was

a great experience walking around the farm with Gary and seeing all of the different aspects of the farm.

“He certainly is innovative and I think we can learn a lot from his attitude to trying new things.

What this enterprise here highlights, is the need for continued support for our small family farms and the need for improved procurement policies.

“It can not be underestimated how much family run businesses, like Brooksgrove Farm, contribute to the local economy and we simply can’t allow them to be a casualty of poor Brexit planning and failed negotiations.”

October 2017 | Farming Monthly | 09

| Arable

drone4rent...

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Our experienced crew of drone operators have the skill and experience needed to ensure you receive exactly the footage you need Drone4Rent provide aerial footage for a number of different industries, with a capability for offering both single and dual operators depending on your

requirements, as well as a thermal imaging option to help you achieve your goal. Companies for a number of different reasons, rely on our drone footage: • Aerial 4K filming • Data for industrial surveys • Agricultural mapping • Site inspections • 3D modelling • Property marketing • Small events • 360 panoramic footage • Motorsports When it comes to farming drones can provide the following services with more being constantly developed: • Health assessment • Crop spraying • Irrigation • Planting • Crop monitoring • Field and soil analysis

10 | Farming Monthly | October 2017

Lowest wheat bulb fly risk since monitoring began Cereal crops are at the lowest overall risk from wheat bulb fly (WBF) since monitoring began, according to findings from the annual AHDB autumn survey of this pest. onducted by ADAS, the autumn survey involves taking soil samples in September from 30 fields prone to WBF attack (split equally across sites in England, located in the East and the North) and counting the number of WBF eggs.

Historically, the threshold of 250 eggs/m2 has been used to provide a measure of overall risk. For the first time since monitoring began in 1984, none of the 30 soil samples was found to exceed this threshold.

Despite the low risk, some sites sampled had egg levels above the seed treatment threshold relevant to later-drilled crops, with the risk higher at sites located in the north of England.

Good progress was made with the winter wheat harvest in 2017, despite unsettled weather, and 90 per cent of the crop had been harvested by the first week of September, which is ahead of the five-year average.

Report author, Dr Steve Ellis, ADAS, said: “It’s possible the good progress with harvest limited the opportunity for the fungi that adult wheat bulb fly like to consume to develop in cereal ears.

“When food sources are restricted, we know the females produce fewer eggs and this could have contributed to the low-risk year for this pest.”

Treatment thresholds Due to recent withdrawals,

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chemical options for control of WBF are limited to seed treatments. The thresholds for treatment are as follows: > Early-sown winter wheat crops (before November) are unlikely to benefit from seed treatment, as they have more time to tiller and are better able to withstand WBF attack > For late-sown winter wheat crops (November to December), seed treatments should be considered where WBF populations exceed 100 eggs/m2 (moderate risk) > For late-winter/spring-sown crops (January to March), seed treatments should be considered irrespective of the WBF population size Good progress was made with the winter wheat harvest in 2017 The threshold of 100 eggs/m2 is, therefore, only relevant to late-sown crops. For the sites located in the North, four were above this level. Only one site, however, was above this level in the East.

The WBF survey provides an indication of the overall risk level. As in-field risk depends on numerous factors, growers are advised to read the AHDB Wheat Bulb Fly publication to calculate the need to treat crops. The publication can be found, alongside the full survey results, at cereals.ahdb.org.uk/wbf

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Arable

CropTec 2017 – knowledge exchange event returns to drive arable innovation Forward-thinking farmers and agronomists will have the opportunity to explore a wide range of novel science and innovative technology when the CropTec Show returns to Peterborough at the end of November. ropTec is now recognised as one of the key diary dates in the arable calendar, having gained a reputation as the UK’s leading knowledge exchange event in the

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sector.

Farmers and their advisers are attracted by CropTec’s unique informal atmosphere that creates the ideal forum to exchange ideas and experiences, according to Elisabeth Mork-Eidem, group head of events at Briefing Media, which

organises the CropTec show.

“Content and knowledge exchange will remain the focus of CropTec. We would urge all farmers and agronomists looking to the future to come to Peterborough in November to discuss adaptation of new technology, cutting edge agronomy and best business practices.

“They can get advice from networking with like-minded industry peers, from the well researched, topical seminars and from visiting the exhibition hall and having the right conversations with relevant companies who have brought their best technical staff.”

CropTec’s key features include the trade stand exhibition, which includes a wide range of innovative products and novel thinking. Over 170 exhibitors had booked by mid September.

The popular seminar programme returns (see panel), hosting leading speakers covering the four key technical areas of crop breeding, crop establishment, crop nutrition and crop protection.

Last year’s seminars were standing room only, with visitors coming away with a wealth of knowledge that could be implemented on farm.

Four knowledge hubs, which consist of short, sharp presentations delivering key-take away messages, will also feature at CropTec 2017. The popular black-grass hub returns, and three new hubs will cover oilseed rape quality and weed management, biostimulants, and data & analytics.

CropTec also includes a sprayer demo area where visitors can drive

some of the most advanced sprayers in the market.

New for 2017 alongside the hubs is a Farm Innovation Zone, where visitors can speak to a range of leading agritech innovators.

Adama Agricultural Solutions returns as CropTec headline sponsor. “We are once again extremely pleased to be the headline sponsor for what we are sure will be another exceptionally successful CropTec show,” said Ali Bosher, marketing director for Adama.

“With a wide selection of industry-leading speakers covering a range of technical, practical and business issues, CropTec provides the perfect opportunity for farmers, agronomists and professional spray operators to learn more about the very latest developments in crop establishment, protection, nutrition, and yield enhancement.

“We look forward to the 2017 event and are proud to be able to support such a focused, professional and well-targeted event.

A maximium of six BASIS and six NRoSO points are available each day. FACTS CPD points will also be available.

The CropTec show is free for visitors to attend, provided tickets are booked in advance. Tickets will be charged at £15 on the day.

The event will take place at the East of England Showground, Peterborough, on Wednesday 29th and Thursday 30th November.

For further information on CropTec 2017, to book tickets and to sign up to the CropTec newsletter, go to www.croptecshow.com

October 2017 | Farming Monthly | 11

| On Topic

Contact your nearest dealer: Central Cropsprayers Limited Unit J Sandford Industrial Park Whitchurch Shropshire SY13 2AN 01948 840187 www.centralcropsprayers.co.uk

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

12 | Farming Monthly | October 2017

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| Arable

INPUTS 240 kg Liquid N applied in a 3way split before flag leaf T0 - Bravo or Amistar Opti if yellow rust is about T1 - Epoxi + Vertisan + Bravo T2 - Epoxi + Imtrex T3 - Proline

No till approach pays dividends

Second wheat yields have topped 11 t/ha for a Yorkshire grower, which he believes are down to a no-till approach. he variety, Evolution, yielded almost as much in the second wheat slot as it did as a first wheat on Rawcliffe Bridge Farm, near Goole, and Richard Hinchliffe puts this down to healthier soils as a result of adopting a no-till regime on the farm back in 2012.

“There was only a difference in a tonne between our first and second wheat yields from Evolution - both of which were higher than average for the season in this area, and if we had had more sunlight later in the summer, we could easily have been looking at yields such as those in 2015,” he says.

“The only downside was our second wheats had a lower bushel weight of 72-74 kg/hl, whereas with the first wheats it was up to 76 kg/hl.”

“Our focus here is to grow the biggest heap of grain we can get; milling wheats don’t do well on these silty loam soils, so we are always looking to push yields.”

On the basis of looking for ways to improve farm productivity, Mr Hinchliffe first began experimenting with no-till back in 2012, and now the whole farm is

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under a no-till system.

“We gave up ploughing about 16 years ago, and went to a min-till system and this seemed to work well. However we thought we could go even further and decided to try one field out under a no-till system with a new John Deere direct drill that we had just bought.”

“We started to see the benefits of no-till straight away as the ‘tester’ field soon turned out to be our best field.”

He highlights benefits such as; improved water penetration, increased worm numbers and better rooting. “All of which it make it much easier to manage the soils.”

“Moisture retention is much improved now and we are certainly seeing a much slower release of nitrogen in the soil, which I think gives us the equivalent of an extra week’s grain fill.”

“We still subsoil where needed, mostly on the heavier magnesium clays – at the end of the day we have to take a pragmatic rather than a dogmatic approach,” he points out.

“With very little black-grass to contend with, wheats can go in early. “Last year we decided to grow Evolution as both a first and

second wheat and drilled it from mid-Sept to early October, with the cleanest fields being drilled first.”

“Being able to drill earlier does mean that we can push yields that little bit more.”

“Our soils are a high pH of around 8, so we don’t have issues with take-all, which means that we can drill second wheats without too many concerns.”

“We use a higher seed rate for the second wheats; up from 350 seeds/m² to 400 seeds/m². My theory is that it is better to have a plant to manage than no plant at all and the high rate helps to counteract against slugs, which is one downside of the no-till approach.”

Richard Hinchliffe does all of his own agronomy. Septoria tritici and yellow rust are the main disease targets for his fungicide programme, with broad leaved weeds such as cleavers being a target in the spring.

Most of the wheats grown at Rawcliffe Bridge Farm are hard Group 4’s, with the exception of a small area of Belepi, Viscount and LG Motown.

This autumn Evolution will be the biggest variety grown on the farm, both as a second and first wheat, based on its performance

this year. Costello will also be grown for the third year running.

However Viscount, long time farm stalwart has started to drop away in yields, so Mr Hinchliffe will be trialling LG Motown as a replacement.

Evolution has performed very well in both the first and second wheat situations in Limagrain UK’s internal and external independent trials.

“Evolution appears to be more robust in dealing with take-all; probably an attribute of the variety originally being bred in Denmark and selected in second wheat nurseries which is a very testing environment,” says the breeder’s technical manager, Ron Granger.

“The variety appears to perform better in a second wheat slot than as a first wheat. On the AHDB Recommended List for 2017/18, as a first wheat, Evolution yields 102 % but move it into a second wheat slot and its performance jumps up to 103 %.”

October 2017 | Farming Monthly | 13

| Grain

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www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Grain

Perry of Oakley Celebrate 70 Years in the Agricultural Industry This year marks the 70th anniversary for Perry of Oakley Ltd, the UK’s most experienced manufacturer of materials handling and drying equipment. During those 70 years it has witnessed first-hand the evolution of the agricultural industry. he company was founded in 1947 by Tom Perry, a farmer’s son, who offered a mobile repair and manufacturing service to local farmers and businesses in the Oakley, Basingstoke area of Hampshire.

1949 saw Tom Perry designed and build the company’s very first belt and bucket elevator with a capacity of 5tph, and first grain cleaners. These early cleaners were equipped with mechanical sieves and aspiration to lift off dust and light rubbish. Today, Perry’s range of Belt & bucket elevators have been developed for both agricultural & industrial use and are available in capacities up to 1000tph at heights of up to 30m, while the range of grain cleaners provides a solution for every customer’s needs.

During the early 1950’s many new farm mechanisation aids were

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designed and manufactured by Tom Perry. These included tractor mounted buck rakes, trailers, dust reduction systems for combine harvesters and jog trough grain conveyors driven by petrol engines or electric motors. These conveyors had capacities of up to 5tph, as capacity requirements increased the first chain and flight conveyors were developed. These conveyors were the fore-runners of the conveyors that Perry’s currently design and manufacture with capacities up to 1000tph.

Since 1950, Perry of Oakley have sold thousands of machines, in the UK and abroad, handling and drying everything from standard cereals to digestate, pellets, minerals, dust, woodchip and even waste fish! Perry are so confident in the capabilities and longevity of their machines that they are now offering a 10-year guarantee on their standard agricultural conveyors (T’s & C’s apply).

With Tom’s passion for

improving agricultural machinery the business grew and in 1952 the first small factory was built in Oakley. Tom’s son, Nigel Perry joined the business in 1972 and shortly after Patricia, Nigel’s wife also came on board.

Under Nigel’s leadership Perry’s expanded to such a degree that in 1974 a brand new, purpose-built factory was built in Oakley to house the company. By 1990 the business had expanded again and required larger premises and Nigel made the decision to relocate the business to their current site in Devon.

The following year, David Perry, Nigel & Patricia’s son, joined the company having achieved a First Class Honours degree in engineering. David worked with his parents for 16 years until he took over as Managing Director in 2007, although Nigel and Patricia are still spotted around the factory 10 years after they retired.

David Perry has continued to expand the business investing in

the staff, the latest technologies, manufacturing capabilities, research & development projects.

Since David became Managing Director, Perry’s have released several key products including Ezi Quote, a revolutionary online quoting system allowing customers to produce their own quotes. He also released the Perry CentriKleens, a system that catches 97% of all dust and chaff emitted from driers.

Since 1955, when Perry’s first grain drier was manufactured with a capacity of 5tph, their grain driers have become the front runners of continuous mixed flow driers. This year has seen the release of their Savannah series drier, which is capable of capacities of up to 150tph. The Savannah series is a

cont..

October 2017 | Farming Monthly | 15

| Grain commercial specification drier, accessible and affordable to small farms.

Last year saw Perry release their Belt Drier, which has proven itself on a variety of products and was their most significant product release in over a decade. The Perry belt drier is one of the most popular and versatile driers available on the market for non-free-flowing products.

David has not just focused on the grain & industrial handling, he has also developed a whole range of handling, drying and storage equipment specifically designed for Biomass.

All Perry products are designed and manufactured in Perry's purpose-built facility in the West

Country using a depth of knowledge acquired during 70 years of business. Perry of Oakley in-house team now provide expert technical support for its machinery globally.

David Perry said: “Over the years there have been many changes but some things have remained consistent. We have always worked to a high specification and standard of manufacture, we aim to provide excellent customer service & support, we ensure that all of our customers have direct access to key design & engineering personnel and, we continue to fund research & development programs to ensure we provide the very latest technologies to our customers; and I’m sure this is why over 90% of our

16 | Farming Monthly | October 2017

customers buy from us repeatedly.

I am really proud of how this company has developed over the last 70 years. As well as major product releases, we constantly tweak and improve our products so the product range is always expanding and improving, plus this year we are the SHAPA Exporter of the Year award and have been listed in the top 100 Small to medium sized enterprises in the country.

Being a family run business means that we are really driven to see the business be successful, after all, it is literally my name above the door!

The future brings the prospect of new products, new challenges and new technologies which we

embrace and enjoy! Embracing new technology and maintaining our market position is really important to us. We need to make sure that our products are the market leaders in technological advances, which they are.

We have a 4th generation of Perry’s in waiting. I’d like to think that my children, Abi, Tom & Ted, will continue to fly the Perry flag to bring our customers the same great service and products that they are used to in years to come, but we are a way off of that yet!”

If you require information on any of the Perry product range please contact Perry of Oakley Ltd on +44 (0)1404 890300 or email sales@perryofoakley.co.uk

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| Grain

High protein hampered by Hagbergs?

Could high protein be hampered by Hagberg and gluten levels?

B wheat protein could be on track to be the highest on record, according to the first provisional results of AHDB Cereals & Oilseeds’ Cereal Quality Survey 2017. However, wet weather during harvest has affected Hagberg Falling Numbers (HFN).

Meanwhile, the provisional results for barley show that while specific weights and grain sizes are broadly in line with last season, higher nitrogen levels could prove challenging.

Wheat For the 2,858 wheat samples analysed by 31 August, the provisional average protein level was a record for the first release at 13.2 per cent. This compares to the three-year average at this

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stage of 12.1 per cent.

James Webster, AHDB Cereals & Oilseeds Analyst said: “We are seeing the highest ever average protein level for GB at this stage of the Cereal Quality Survey.

However, protein content is a weak indicator of milling and baking quality. As such there will also be a number of questions asked about the functionality of the protein (gluten) this season.”

Hagberg Falling Numbers for all of the wheat sampled to date averaged 259s, some way below last season when HFNs averaged 319s at the same point in the survey. The provisional result this season is also lower than the provisional result for the 2012 harvest (267s). However, it is worth noting that the averages of the nabim Group 1 samples is above the level required to meet the

requirements for full specification bread wheat (250s), at 260s Mr Webster added: “We have seen a great deal of variation in Hagberg levels across the wheat crop, with samples ranging from 79s to 432s. However, because the samples so far are biased to the earlier-harvested regions, we could well see the average Hagberg level falling further. Later harvested regions were hit harder by summer rainfall which led to a challenging stop-start harvest for many.”

“The nature of the fractured 2017 harvest will also raise questions over the consistency of quality of the domestic wheat crop relative to imported supplies.”

Specific weights this season are broadly in line with the same stage last year. At 76.8kg/hl they are the lowest since 2012, but not far off last year’s first provisional average

of 77.2kg/hl. Of the nabim Group 1 samples analysed to date, it looks like Crusoe has been most affected by the drop in HFNs, falling from 306s in last season’s provisional results to 247s in the 2017 first provisional estimates.

The first provisional results have a regional bias towards the East and South East, representing 36 per cent and 38 per cent respectively of the total sample.

Furthermore, nabim Group 1 varieties account for 62 per cent of the samples analysed to date. As we move toward the second provisional and final results, we will develop a much clearer picture of UK wheat quality, addressing the regional and varietal biases.

This will give us further clarification as to the extent to which grain quality was affected by the rain during harvest.

October 2017 | Farming Monthly | 17

| Buildings

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| Buildings

Creating the perfect grain storage Solution

Planning for harvest is a continual cycle. You spend months preparing, sewing, growing and harvesting and then once it’s complete, the process must begin again.

With many crops taking 11 months to grow, it is essential that your hard work is supported with the perfect storage solution. here are many external factors that can affect a crop once it is in storage; from moisture, fungi, mites and general hygiene, through to pests and structural issues, such as bowing walls and leaking roofs. It is therefore essential that suitable storage conditions are created to minimise waste and maximise returns.

Storing grain in tired buildings that allow access to the elements will only cause problems. Damp conditions act as a breeding ground for many species of insects and although drying the grain after combining will slow down insect development, it is essential that moisture content is kept to 12% to minimise the risk.

The structure itself is a vital factor and requires careful consideration.

A new grain store will offer a clean, dry, well-ventilated and watertight construction – but how

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is this achieved? High quality CE Marked steel and materials will prevent rain and other such weather penetrating the building.

Quality roofing will also reduce or eliminate birds and pests from gaining access.

Concrete panels are a key feature in a Graham Heath Construction Grain Store. They are easy to clean, hygienic and exceptionally durable, withstanding the force of a grain harvest with ease. Concrete panels are also quick and easy to install, simply slotting in between steel supports.

From the steel frames to the concrete panels, the key elements of every Graham Heath Construction building are produced at the business’ UK based site. Graham Heath Construction always strives to provide its customers with the highest quality, value-for-money solution.

October 2017 | Farming Monthly | 19

| UK Dairy Day

The cows came to Shropshire Visitor numbers reach peak record at UK Dairy Day. he BEST yet! The fourth UK Dairy Day in Telford saw crowds of people herd into the International Centre for a day dedicated to dairy. Record breaking visitors of 8,422 descended on UK Dairy Day – an 8% increase on the previous year - demonstrating the strength, positivity, and drive of the industry with thousands gathering to network, learn, and do vital business with suppliers.

Exhibitors, sponsors, and visitors have praised the day for its excellence, providing dairy businesses from right across the UK with the platform to communicate to a targeted audience, at a time when important decisions are being made by farmers ahead of winter housing. The International Centre was transformed into a gigantic dairy parade – with 186 show cattle in the main ring and every inch of its two great Halls, Ludlow Suite, Newport Suite, Concourse, first floor and external areas filled with dairy businesses from equipment, nutritionists, animal health experts, bedding suppliers to professional advisors and banks.

From farm to retail shelves, every facet of the dairy supply chain was represented amongst the 310 exhibitors.

The Cattle Lines were filled with pristine cattle ready for showing. Managed and coordinated by a team of extremely professional stewards the Cattle Show, featuring both The National Holstein Show and The National Ayrshire Show, was a real

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highlight of the day. Various awards were presented throughout the day to those who have made phenomenal effort to advance their breeds. The Interbreed Heifer Champion was awarded to Littlebridge Goldchip Honey, the Interbreed Senior Champion awarded to Illens Atwood Australia and the Interbreed Dairy Pairs awarded to Illens Atwood Australia & Icow Huddlesford Rosann 899. A special mention went to Dick Stapleton, a backbone of the cattle infrastructure team, who was awarded the Holstein UK Lifetime Achievement Award. The full list of results from the Cattle Show can now be viewed online: http://www.ukdairyday.co.uk/2017-show-results The Sharing Knowledge Zone with seminars, New Product Competition, Making More from Milk Zone and the Calf Rearing Zone proved to be a very popular area with many engaging in practical demonstrations of type classification, calf anatomy painting and cattle foot trimming.

The Dairy Prospects Post-Brexit seminar presented by AHDB drew a large crowd as farmers wanted to understand more about the future of farming post EU, and how Brexit will impact at ground level. Also in this area Herdwatch picked up the New Product Award for its innovative Farm Management App. They were closely followed by CowAlert by IceRobotics who were highly commended for their Automated Lameness Detection and the judges made a special mention to Dairy Spares for Trusti Tuber. The 12 shortlisted products were on display throughout the whole day with the winner being announced just after lunchtime. To view the 12-shortlisted new products visit: http://www.ukdairyday.co.uk/sharingknowledge/new-products Weatherbys Scientific had the hard challenge of judging the 310 trade stands on the day for their creativity, engagement, clarity of graphic and overall effect. ADF Milking picked up the award for the largest stand, Vetoquinol won best medium sized stand and the best small stand

went to Hingerose Ltd. The best external trade stand went to JFC Manufacturing.

Sue Cope, Event Director, commented on the shows’ success; “The UK Dairy Day team and its organisers Holstein UK and CIS, would like to say an enormous thank you to the dairy industry for their continued support. The energy and atmosphere felt at Wednesday’s show really does demonstrate the strength of our industry and positive future ahead. With recent milk price increases, farmers felt encouraged to look at new innovations at the show and plan for production. The Cattle Show is always a remarkable display with the country’s most sensational cattle on parade. I’d personally like to congratulate all cattle exhibitors for their effort and dedication in preparing every animal to such a high standard. It really is exemplary for British agriculture. As UK Dairy Day grows we are conscious of adding new elements to the show to keep it fresh and innovative and at the forefront of British farming. This year the UK Dairy Day app was downloaded by hundreds of people and the introduction of the NBDC Breed Village and Calf Rearing Zone were extremely popular.”

She concludes; “The 2017 UK Dairy Day has attracted its highest visitor numbers yet, including both a domestic and international following. It is down to our sponsors, exhibitors, speakers, team members, colleagues at the International Centre and most importantly, our dairy farmers that UK Dairy Day has progressed to become the UK’s leading dairy trade event and we are already excited to host the 2018 show.”

Save the Date for 2018!

UK Dairy Day returns on Wednesday 12th September 2018 at The International Centre, Telford, Shropshire.

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| Tillage

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October 2017 | Farming Monthly | 21

| UK Dairy Day

Getting the best return from your housing As thoughts turn to placing your animals indoors for the winter ahead, nothing contrast more than healthy productive outdoor pastures of the last 7-8 months to the harsh environment of living on concrete slats for the coming 4-5 months. In fact it is no wonder that animals don’t do as well during this period. ver time in the barn the cold, wet harsh concrete wears down the animals resistance and If you try to envision how to improve your cattle’s life indoors, words like dry, warm clean, stress free & comfortable spring to mind.

What is the one area in the barn that can have an immediate impact in improving the conditions for your animals during the winter period? Yes, giving your animal a dry, comfortable surface to walk upon is the most cost effective return on investment.

If you have SLATS, The Green Floor System by Comfort Slat Mats offers a dry, clean and comfortable floor which will benefit your cattle for the winter months ahead.

Improving the Environment In addition, the suppleness of the product simulates the normal grassland surface on which animals graze and allows the animal to stand-up or lie-down in a more natural manner. The profiled design of the slat cover

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encourages urine and faeces to move through the gaps between the slats and into the storage tank below the floor resulting in cleaner floors and thus cleaner animals.

The Green Floor System by Comfort Slat Mats has been designed as THE solution to prevent lameness caused by the slats by tackling the problems of 1.

Wet floors – a casual factor of lameness 2. Lack of grip 3. Unhygienic & Un-healthy floors 1 Curved – for the speedy removal of urine from the floor creating a dry walking area.

2 Dynamic / Cushioned core – designed to allow the claw to “grip” into the floor and 3 Snap-Lock – Encapsulates the slat rib Slat mat may be seen as too expensive, but in time will be deemed essential as their benefits become more accepted. Attributed benefits are reduced lameness, easier for animals to get up, more thrive and more comfort. Even if you feel mats are too prohibitive at today’s margins, you must plan for the future. Go see cattle units on

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other farms and see for yourself.

Check out how the mats are performing on these farms, are the mats secure and remain in position. Look at the surface for wear. Are the animals inclined to slip? Why not plan to do a couple of pens!

Cattle don’t like getting up from

a slatted floor, so if you see cattle or suckler cows getting up a bit like a horse, you know there is something wrong. Cattle are weary of getting up for fear that their knees will be in the slot when they pivot on them to get up. This increases stress and shortens feeding and lying times.

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| UK Dairy Day

New product launch - Moocall HEAT We are very happy to announce the launch of a brand new Moocall product - Moocall HEAT. It is a new heat detection system, available for dairy or beef operations. To celebrate our launch, we have a superb special offer, if you are willing to put down a 20% deposit on a Moocall HEAT system, we will include a FREE calving sensor. ost heat detection methods involve looking at the cow to try and determine when the cow is in heat.

Moocall HEAT is different, it uses nature to its advantage and monitors the bulls behaviour and his interaction with cows. Think of it like a chin ball for the 21st century. It doesn't need to be monitored or adjusted, and sends the information straight to a farmer’s phone.

The product • A rechargeable collar (8 weeks battery life) to be worn by either a stock bull or a vasectomised bull.

• RFID Moocall ear tags - one worn on each cow or heifer. These are passive, so they are designed to last the lifetime of the animal.

• Moocall HEAT measures bull and cow interaction over time, to build up a picture of the animals in the field. Then based on frequency of interaction over time, alongside bull activity and mounting

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behaviour it can accurately detect which cow is in her standing heat and alert the farmer via sms message and app update. Current testing is showing it to be incredibly accurate - over 98% accurate in our extensive testing to date.

• What it tells you • The exact time cows or heifers are in heat; • Whether a cow or a heifer repeats; • Due dates and when you can assume they are in-calf; • Bull health (mobility, virility & fertility); • Cow fertility over time.

• Cost • Moocall HEAT is priced at €1220 + VAT for a collar (50 eartags included) • Additional packs of 25 eartags are priced at €90 + VAT • After 12 months of usage, there is an annual charge of €285 + VAT (discounted by up to 20% if you own multiple sensors, or are also a calving sensor customer)

Moocall BREEDMANAGER Your Moocall HEAT sensor will automatically update the Moocall BREEDMANAGER mobile application. This means that heats, repeats, due dates and more will all be auto-updated within your herd management app. You won't fully appreciate the value of this until you use it, but trust us, it's incredible.

For example, if you had Moocall HEAT on a stock bull, Moocall BREEDMANAGER will let you know when each cow was in heat, when the bull inseminated her, watch her to make sure she doesn't repeat (and let you know if she does) and then mark her in calf once she doesn't repeat, and let you know the due date. Oh, we'll also remind you before she is due to calve so you can get your Moocall calving sensor on there!

On a vasectomised or teaser bull, all of the same information would be added, the only difference is you need to tell us

when you inseminated her, and to which bull. Don't worry, we make it really easy to do this.

To find out more about Moocall BREEDMANAGER, visit www.mooclal.com. By the way, Moocall BREEDMANAGER is free for anyone to use manually, regardless of owning our sensors or not, so be sure and spread the word.

How to order Moocall HEAT The Moocall HEAT system is now available for pre-order. Put down a 20% deposit today, and we will include a free Moocall calving sensor.

This will apply only to the first 500 Moocall HEAT systems ordered. We plan to deliver the collar in mid Jan / early Feb. Your new Moocall calving sensor (which now includes a new non-slip rubber) will be delivered as soon as the pre-order is in our system.

Owning the calving sensor also gets you 20% discount on future annual charges, so it's a win-win!

October 2017 | Farming Monthly | 23

| Diet Feeders

KUHN focuses on feeding and bedding efficiency at The Dairy Show KUHN Farm Machinery were focusing on feeding and bedding efficiency at this year’s Dairy Show at the Bath and West Showground, Shepton Mallet on 4th October, with the recently launched PRIMOR 15070 M large capacity trailed feeder and straw blower on display. he dual-purpose PRIMOR 15070 M feeder and straw blower is large enough to take up to four 1.30 x 1.20 x 2.70 metre rectangular bales or three round bales up to 2 metres in diameter. It can be configured according to the layout of farm buildings, with a side or multidirectional distribution chute (GL or GP model variant) enabling straw to be blown to the left or right.

Two powerful intake rotors feed the turbine with a beam of six hydraulic tines above the feed rotors enabling intake settings to

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be adjusted and regulated according to the type of product being used. The turbine itself can blow up to 18 metres to the right and is fitted with eight bolt-on blades for pneumatic fodder separation.

The PRIMOR 15070 M has the option of KUHN’s hydraulic unroll system to clamp subsequent round bales in place and stop them from rotating while the first bale is being fed through. It is also equipped with an hydraulic tailgate with a 1.2 tonne lifting capacity for self-loading round bales. The floor of the body is fitted with a 14mm diameter chain conveyor with an optional boost floor available to

provide extra feed conveyor torque for the distribution of heavier products such as grass silage.

In common with existing machines in the PRIMOR range, the 15070 M uses KUHN’s disengageable belt driven POLYDRIVE clutch system to drive two feed rotors which are

equipped with 34 cutting sections for ultimate control over cutting length and intensity: all PRIMOR machines are capable of feeding all types of feedstuffs including straw, silage and haylage.

Wessex BFR-180 modular feeding & bedding system Designed and manufactured in our Hampshire UK factory, the Wessex BFR-180 (patent pending) is a modular feeding and bedding system that can be a configured as a bale feeder (mode 1), a bale feeder with an extension chute (mode 3), or a straw spreader and bale feeder combination (mode 2). he BFR-180 only requires one tractor or telehandler to operate, and the maintenance is very low with only four grease points and no electrics!

VISIT THE WEBSITE OR CALL US TO BOOK YOUR DEMO TODAY. Mode 1 - BFR-180 ROUND BALE FEEDER As a bale feeder, it can feed round bales of hay, haylage, straw and silage from either side with ease. Featuring massive 5.5ton rated chains with zinc-plated

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crossbars and a high spec Danfoss hydraulic motor, the BFR180 is a very reliable, seriously durable bale feeder that is simple to use and very easy to maintain.

• REQUIRES ONE DOUBLE ACTING HYDRAULIC SPOOL Mode 2 - BFR-180 ROUND BALE FEEDER & CROSSFIRE STRAW SPREADER With the innovative Crossfire straw spreader attached, bedding and feeding tasks can be undertaken with the same machine, bed from one side and feed off the other.

The Wessex Crossfire straw spreader is unlike conventional

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straw choppers as it spreads the straw in its baled length, with minimal dust and projectiles, and up to ten metres. Straw choppers are renowned for creating excessive dust, which in an enclosed environment can be a serious threat to the health of the stock. Chopping bedding straw also reduces its effective life span within the bedding area.

• REQUIRES ONE DOUBLE ACTING HYDRAULIC SPOOL Mode 3 - SIDEWINDER EXTENSION CHUTE The Wessex Sidewinder is an extension conveyor that attaches to the BFR-180 for high level

feeding into a trough or manger.

The Sidewinder extends to the left leaving the right free to feed or alternatively bed with the Crossfire straw spreader attached.

• REQUIRES TWO DOUBLE ACTING HYDRAULIC SPOOLS, OR ONE DOUBLE ACTING WITH DIVERTER VALVE Mode – 3 OR A COMBINATION OF ALL 3 MODES Feed into a trough or manger and bed straw with the same machine.

• REQUIRES TWO DOUBLE ACTING HYDRAULIC SPOOLS, OR ONE DOUBLE ACTING WITH DIVERTER VALVE

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Fencing

Strip grazing, winter Worried how long your grazing, movable sheep new fence will last? fencing?

A new fence is a significant investment,if wooden posts are used there is always a concern that the post will rot through at ground level while the rest of the fence is in perfectly good condition.

Need to keep your livestock contained temporarily....or rotate their pasture? lectricfencing.co.uk is the largest specialist online supplier of electric fencing in the UK. We have the most extensive and comprehensive range of Hotline Electric Fencing products to cover all of your electric fencing needs. From three reel systems to solar powered electric poultry netting systems and many different energisers for different systems and applications.

Autumn 2017 Offer – Three Reel System Available Now! We have an amazing autumn deal on our Premium Three Reel System which covers 500m... RRP £564.00…. It’s now £392.28! Our Three Reel System Autumn Offer is available from 1st October –31st December 2017!

What do you get in this kit?

• 3 x 3:1 Geared Reels

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• 3 x 500m 9 strand polywire • 5 x 10 pack posts • 2 x End system post with insulators • 1 x Reel fixing post • 3 x Reel fixing bracket • 1 x 2 pack hart clip double line connector You will require a source of power and an appropriate energiser to power this system: mains, battery or perhaps a nifty solar powered energiser? You may need some extra plastic posts if your ground is undulating or exposed to the elements. It’s also worth investing in a fence tester.

If you are not sure what you need - contact us - we love talking electric fencing! www.electricfencing.co.uk info@electricfencing.co.uk 01620 860058

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his problem has been exacerbated over recent years as current wood preservatives can prove to be less

effective.

However there is a proven solution to this problem that will ensure your new fence lasts at least 20 years in the form of a Postsaver ground line barrier sleeves.

Postsaver sleeves have been in production since 1994 and are proven to protect this vulnerable part of the post from ground rot.

With millions of sleeves sold worldwide and long term independent testing Postsaver sleeves really do work.

The sleeves combine an inner meltable bitumen sealant with a tough polythene outer, they're easily applied in around 30 seconds.

They are supplied in sizes to fit all fence and gate post sizes or in universal 'Wrap & Tack' sheet which can be cut to size to fit any post size For a tiny additional cost you can have the assurance that your new fence will last at least 20 years. www.postsaver.co.uk

October 2017 | Farming Monthly | 25

| Feature

Farm Business Innovation Show The Farm Business Innovation Show is Europe’s leading event for farmers, landowners and estate owners who are looking to find creative new ways to generate revenue from their land and the expert advice to make it happen!

Voted ‘Trade Show of the Year’ by the EN Awards in 2016, the show is returning to NEC in Birmingham on the 8th & 9th of November 2017 and is still completely free to attend (tickets available at the show website www.farmbusinessshow.co.uk). iven the current economic climate, it has never been more relevant or important to maintain stability in business and diversification is the best way that rural business owners can not only achieve stability but increase income and see profits grow. The Farm Business Innovation Show delivers new and innovative ways of diversifying which can increase profits and keep the traditional farm running. These revenue streams can range from hosting family attractions or holding a festival to opening a glampsite, becoming a wedding venue, or even renting your outbuildings as office space. The opportunities are endless!

Farm Business Innovation provides rural entrepreneurs with the inspiration, resources, and advice needed to diversify, innovate, and succeed through 200 seminars, 500 inspiring exhibitors, and case studies of people who have been there and done it. Of course diversifying a rural business takes more than motivation and inspiration, which is why the Farm Business Innovation Show is fully equipped with experts who can help with

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everything from Brexit, planning permission, and taxes to marketing and website design in order to give businesses all the tools they need to make sure any venture undertaken is successful. The seminars aim to be inspiring, educational and motivational, featuring such amazing speakers such as; Michael Eavis (Glastonbury Festival) who will discuss how the festival and farm work together, Geoff Sansome (Natural England) with a talk on managing environmental assets in the farm business, and Doug Gurr (Head of UK, Amazon) who will look at unlocking the digital potential of rural UK. We are also pleased to announce that we have several interactive debates taking place over the two days, all of which will have the best industry professionals divulging their thoughts on hot topics such as planning permission, social media, succession planning, weddings, equestrian business rates, and glamping. Amazon will also be running a Rural Academy Workshop to make help rural businesses make sure they are making the most out of their digital potential. On top of all of this the networking opportunities are almost unlimited. Plenty to learn and get involved in!

Your free ticket to the Farm Business

Innovation Show will also give you full access to its sister shows running directly alongside: Holiday Park & Resort Innovation, Country House Innovation and Family Attraction Expo.

As always the shows bring together all the tools and resources, and advice, in order to put rural business on the map in one of the most vibrant, dynamic, and competitive sectors in British business.

Running on the 8th & 9th November 2017 at the NEC Birmingham tickets to attend the show are free, visitors just need to register via the website www.farmbusinessshow.co.uk.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Sheep

Sheep gene insights could help farmers breed healthier animals Fresh insights into the genetic code of sheep could aid breeding programmes to improve their health and productivity.

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cientists have mapped which genes are turned on and off in the different tissues and organs in a

sheep’s body.

Their findings shed new light on the animal’s complex biology, including insight into the function of genes linked to immunity and meat quality.

Researchers say the insights could eventually inform animal breeding programmes aimed at improving farmers’ stocks.

Sheep have more than 20,000 different genes but not all of these are expressed in each tissue type in the body.

The team focused on genetic material called RNA, which is produced as an intermediate step when DNA code is translated into the proteins and molecules that make up cells and tissues.

RNA serves as a functional

read-out of exactly which genes are expressed in which tissues at any one time.

Researchers at the University of Edinburgh’s Roslin Institute analysed the total RNA produced in each tissue of the sheep’s body.

Their results represent a major step towards understanding how the sheep’s genetic information influences its physical traits.

The findings also shed light on the function of hundreds of genes whose role was previously unknown.

An online database has been created from the results, which is freely accessible to scientists working anywhere in the world.

The researchers hope this resource will help to further understanding of the sheep’s genetic make-up.

The project is a major contribution to the global Functional Annotation of ANimal Genomes (FAANG) initiative.

The study, published in PLOS Genetics, was supported by the Biotechnology and Biological Research Council (BBSRC). The Roslin Institute also receives strategic funding from the BBSRC. Professor David Hume, of the University of Edinburgh’s Roslin Institute, who initiated the project, said: “This is largest resource of its kind. Ongoing comparative analysis will provide insights to help us understand gene function across all large animal species, including humans.”

Dr Emily Clark, of the University of Edinburgh’s Roslin Institute, who coordinated the project, said: “Sheep are a central part of the rural economy in the UK and are essential to sustainable agriculture across the globe. The new resource represents a major step towards understanding how the sheep’s genetic information influences its physical traits, and provides a foundation to use this information to generate sustainable improvements in the productivity of livestock animals.”

Meirionnydd upland sheep farm shows how food production and environmental conservation go hand in hand

Over three quarters of the Welsh countryside has some environmental or conservation designation, highlighting the important role farming continues to play in maintaining our natural resources.

ver three quarters of the Welsh countryside has some environmental or conservation designation, highlighting the important role farming continues to play in maintaining our natural resources.

Showcasing exactly how food production and environmental conservation go hand in hand were Farmers’ Union of Wales Merioneth tenant farmers Geraint and Rachael Davies, who are the third generation of farmers to tend the land at Fedw Arian Uchaf, Rhyduchaf, Y Bala.

The couple opened the gates to their home farm, inviting visitors, including Cabinet Secretary for Environment and Rural Affairs Lesley Griffiths AM, to see the land and stock, the various elements of the Glastir scheme, with particular emphasis on the Capital Works and management options that are part of the scheme, as well as

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Capital Works which were part of the Tir Eryri scheme and administered by Snowdonia National Park.

An organic farm since 2005, it has been in the Glastir Entry scheme since 2013 and in the Advanced scheme since 2014.

The land, which lies approximately 900 feet above sea level, with much of it reaching up to 2200 feet, extends to 1200 acres, being mostly mountain land with approximately 200 acres of lower land, of which 70 acres is being kept to produce silage every year.

Here Geraint and Rachael keep 1000 Welsh mountain ewes and a Welsh Mountain Ram, which is turned out to the majority, while approximately 300 ewes are crossed with an Innovis Aberfield ram.

There is also a commercial herd of 40 suckler cows, the majority of which are Welsh Black Pedigree and are crossed with a Limousin bull. The calves are sold as stores

between 8-15 months to private buyers. Most of the lambs are sold at Bala and Rhuthun livestock markets.

To ensure a thriving wildlife and rare bird population, whilst also producing red meat at Fedw Arian - which includes a site of Special Scientific Interest - Geraint and Rachael work closely with FWAG Cymru, the RSPB Cymru and Natural Resources Wales.

Rachael Davies, a qualified Barrister who as well as helping to run the farm works as a subcontractor with Kite Consulting and has recently been appointed to the Board of Hybu Cig Cymru, said: “We are clear that food can be produced whilst maintaining and conserving the natural environment, they are not mutually exclusive. We can demonstrate, here at Fedwarian, that farming with the environment can aid the farming process.”

Geraint, who is the FUW’s county chairman in Merioneth, shares his wife’s beliefs that

farmers have an important role to play when it comes to maintaining the countryside and that both, food production and environmental conservation, can and must go hand in hand.

He said: “We have been working with a range of environmental bodies over the years, such as FWAG Cymru, and been involved in many environmental schemes. However, we are also food producers. It is really important that there is a good balance between the two.

You can’t have one without the other.”

Tegwyn Jones, FUW Meirionnydd County President, said: “I would like to thank Geraint and Rachael for welcoming us all to their farm and showing us what can be achieved if food production and agri-environmental schemes work together. As a family unit they do an amazing job.”

October 2017 | Farming Monthly | 27

| Energy

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| Energy

On-farm AD in a post-CAP world

By Charlotte Morton, Chief Executive of the Anaerobic Digestion & Bioresources Association (ADBA).

f one thing is certain about Brexit at the moment, it’s that everything is uncertain – and the future of UK farming is no exception. While Brexit negotiations are taking place as we speak, there’s still little indication from government as to what the future of farming in the

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UK will look like once we leave the European Union, and in particular how UK farmers will be supported once Common Agriculture Policy (CAP) payments are phased out.

What is needed now is action from government to reassure and support UK farmers. One key way in which it could do this is to provide support to the on-farm anaerobic digestion (AD) industry, which recycles organic farm wastes (including slurries, chicken litter, vegetable offcuts, outgrade crops, and animal by-products) and energy crops into renewable heat and electricity, low-carbon transport fuel, and nutrient-rich biofertiliser.

AD has a crucial role to play in keeping farmers farming, particularly in a post-CAP world.

Integrating AD into a farming business can provide a lucrative additional revenue stream whilst saving farmers money on energy, fuel, fertiliser, herbicide, and waste management. At a wider level, it can reduce current agricultural payments under the CAP by up to £1.5bn.

The UK therefore urgently needs a new agricultural policy that will directly support on-farm AD as part of broader efforts to support farmers to deliver environmental benefits. ADBA has called for swift action from the government to overcome uncertainty in the AD industry so it can boost the rural economy, creating 35,000 rural jobs and ensuring security of energy supply at a time when a third of the UK’s natural gas imports come from troubled Qatar.

But what should this support look like? First, in order to lock in the progress that on-farm AD has made over recent years, ADBA is calling for viable tariffs to be restored to the Feed-in-Tariff scheme and the AD capacity cap

to be removed. Second, it’s critical that the delayed legislation on the Renewable Heat Incentive is passed as soon as possible to enable new on-farm biogas and biomethane plants to be built.

The government also needs to get creative in providing additional revenue streams for on-farm AD plants, which offer such a huge range of environmental and economic benefits. How about credits for the production of renewable biofertiliser, which replaces fossil-fuel-based artificial fertilisers and returns nutrients to the soil? Or an agricultural greenhouse gas abatement fund that recognises the huge contribution to agriculture decarbonisation that AD makes?

Even something as straightforward as a more favourable tax system for AD could have a huge impact.

What is needed now is action from government to reassure and support UK farmers Progress and innovation in onfarm AD also needs to come from within the industry, which is why later this year ADBA will be launching its pioneering Best Practice Scheme. This will support AD operators to meet the highest environmental, health and safety, and operational standards and allow those certifying to benefit from reduced costs and improved plant performance.

When combined, all of these factors can help to make AD an even more attractive prospect for UK farmers, offering them vital support in an uncertain world.

You can find out more about how AD can benefit your farm by visiting adbioresources.org or by following us on twitter at @adbioresources

October 2017 | Farming Monthly | 29

| Energy

Biomethane perfectly positioned to meet new renewable fuel targets – ADBA The UK’s trade body for anaerobic digestion (AD) has welcomed the Department for Transport’s (DfT’s) response to its consultation on the Renewable Transport Fuel Obligation (RTFO), declaring biomethane to be ‘perfectly positioned’ to meet increased targets for renewable fuels. fT’s reforms will obligate fuel suppliers to provide 9.75% of all fuels from renewable sources by 2020, a doubling of the current 4.75% obligation that will then rise to 12.4% of all fuels by 2032, helping to align the RTFO with the Government’s Carbon Budgets.

Biomethane produced through the recycling of organic wastes and energy crops is one such fuel derived from renewable sources that can help fuel suppliers to meet this new higher target,

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particularly for heavier vehicles for which electrification is impractical or expensive.

With more than 80 AD plants across the UK already producing biomethane, the UK AD industry has sufficient capacity today to produce enough biomethane to power 80% of the UK’s entire bus fleet and the potential to produce enough biomethane to power 75% of all HGVs in the UK. It can also be used directly on farms to fuel agricultural vehicles.

Charlotte Morton, Chief Executive of the Anaerobic Digestion & Bioresources

Association (ADBA), said of DfT’s response to the RTFO consultation: “ADBA greatly welcomes DfT’s increased commitment to supporting low-carbon fuels, which are essential for decarbonising the UK’s emissions-heavy transport sector and meeting our Carbon Budgets.

“The rising of the obligation for renewable-sourced fuels to 12.4% by 2032 goes beyond what was originally consulted on and will create a positive investment environment for renewable fuels.

As a low-carbon, low-cost, and

technology-ready transport fuel that can deliver £2.1 bn in CO2e savings per year and dramatically improve air quality, biomethane is perfectly positioned to play a leading role in helping fuel suppliers to meet these increased targets.

“This news represents a huge opportunity for biomethane and will give plenty of food for thought and discussion at the ADBA Biomethane & Gas Vehicle Conference taking place in Leeds the week after next.”

New renewable energy record set 30% of all UK electricity from clean sources. enewableUK is highlighting new Government statistics which show that a record proportion of the UK’s electricity was generated by renewables in the second quarter of this year – with wind producing more than any other clean energy source.

New figures from the Department for Business, Energy

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and Industrial Strategy covering April to June show that a record 29.8% was generated by renewable energy sources in Q2 2017, beating the previous quarterly record of 26.9% set in Q1 2017.

45% of the UK’s clean electricity in Q2 was generated by wind alone (27% from onshore wind and 18% from offshore wind), due to increased capacity, particularly in onshore wind, and higher wind

30 | Farming Monthly | October 2017

speeds, according to the Government’s report.

RenewableUK’s Executive Director Emma Pinchbeck said: “It’s terrific to see that nearly a third of the UK’s electricity is now being generated by renewables, with wind power leading the way.

The UK’s renewable energy sector is an industrial success story, attracting investment, creating new jobs, and powering our economy.

Onshore wind performed

particularly well, with generation increasing by 50% compared to the same period last year. Onshore wind is the cheapest form of new power plant, so it plays an absolutely crucial role in keeping consumer bills down. When the Government holds the next set of competitive auctions for contracts to generate electricity, low-cost onshore wind deserves the chance to compete.”

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| Energy

Storm stirs renewable energy investment in South Australia

A year on from a storm that blacked out the entire state, South Australia has emerged from the electricity crisis to strengthen its position as a global leader in renewable energy.

outh Australia was plunged into darkness when a once-in-50-year storm ripped through the state on September 28, 2016, knocking down more than 20 electricity pylons and three major transmission lines. The cascading chain of events led to a state-wide blackout when the interconnector linking South Australia and Victoria overloaded.

Several federal ministers, including Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, seized on the opportunity to criticise South Australia’s reliance on renewable energy, which at the time provided about 40 per cent of the state’s total electricity.

One year later, South Australia has defied its critics and is ahead of schedule to reach its 50 per cent renewable energy target by 2025. It has also taken steps to stabilise the peaks and troughs of renewable sources that can contribute to supply problems.

According to the latest forecast from the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO), the state is powered by about 48 per cent renewables and is the second leading wind-powered region in the world behind Denmark.

A series of large-scale renewable project announcements by local and international investors since the storm has helped grow confidence in the sector.

In March, the South Australian Government announced a AU$550 million energy plan – including funding for the world’s largest lithium ion battery – to improve system security, reliability and market competition.

South Australia’s Executive Director for Energy and Technical Regulation Vince Duffy said the plan’s initiatives improved system security and reliability, while allowing for more conservative management of the grid.

This was confirmed this month when AEMO released its statement of opportunities report, which found that the South Australian Energy Plan would help alleviate risks to consumer supply in the state by acting to provide additional supplies to consumers at times of identified Unserved Energy (USE) risks.

“The Energy Plan is the practical response, where the Government came out and made some very significant changes to take back control of the energy system,” Duffy said.

“The minister has submitted rule changes looking to develop new markets and new processes to manage inertia and frequency

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control.”

Frontier Economics Managing Director Danny Price said the plan enabled South Australian Premier Jay Weatherill to take control of the state’s energy future and enable a smoother transition to even more renewable energy.

“After the blackout, Weatherill didn’t walk away from the problem, he just said, ‘well these are things that have to be fixed in the absence of any national leadership’,” Price said.

“The development and implementation of the South Australian Energy Plan is almost unprecedented in Australia in terms of recognising a problem and developing a coherent response and then executing it in a short period of time.”

Associate Professor Mark Diesendorf from the University of New South Wales said the statewide blackout was a catalyst for change in South Australia’s renewable sector.

“The blackout was both negative and positive. It was a nasty shock to some businesses and households at the time but it has also galvanised action in the renewables sector in the state,” he said.

“It has shown very clearly that you can’t leave strategic electricity planning to the market alone – you have to have some strategy guided by the government. I think South Australia is doing that now.”

Weatherill last month announced a AU$150 million Renewable Technology Fund – part of the energy plan – aimed at making the state’s renewables more reliable.

The fund will provide $75 million in grants and $75 million in loans to help private companies and entrepreneurs develop eligible projects.

Already $20 million from the fund has been pledged towards building the world’s largest lithium ion battery at the Hornsdale wind farm in South Australia’s Mid North, which is owned by French renewable company Neoen.

The 100MW/129MWh battery will be built by US tech giant Tesla and will be available to provide emergency back-up power if a short in energy is predicted.

Assoc Prof Diesendorf said investing in renewable storage systems, like lithium ion batteries, would pave the way towards 100 per cent renewable energy generation in the state.

“There’s a recognition in South Australia that the growth in variable renewables like wind and PV solar has to be balanced to some degree by storage and dispatchable renewables,” he said.

“One can’t run a large electricity

system just on variable renewables, the system needs some storage and some backup plants and what we’re seeing in South Australia, which I find very exciting, is the first batteries are going in.”

Global energy company Solar Reserve has also invested in renewable storage technology in South Australia, announcing last month that it would build a 150MW solar thermal in Port Augusta, pictured below, 300 km north of the South Australian capital Adelaide.

The plant will incorporate eight hours of storage or 1100MWh, allowing it to operate like a conventional coal or gas power station.

Electricity retailer Snowy Hydro and Singapore-based renewable energy developer Equis will also build a 100 MW solar farm near Tailem Bend, 100 km southeast of Adelaide. Reach Solar currently have the 220 MW Bungala solar farm about 12km from Port Augusta under construction, with Origin Energy entering a power purchase agreement for the output of the project.

Lyon Group also plans to build a 330MW solar generation and 100MW battery storage system in the state’s Riverland.

South Australian renewable technology companies, many of which bid for the State Government’s renewable technology funding, have further driven interest in the renewables sector.

Adelaide-based company 1414 Degrees said it could help cut South Australia’s power bills by 30 per cent with its cutting-edge silicon storage power plant, which stores renewable energy at extreme heat and releases it when needed.

In August, solar technology company Fluid Solar unveiled its new head office in Adelaide, which will run completely on renewable energy, independent of the state’s power grid.

Commercial-scale rooftop solar systems are also being installed at an unprecedented rate in South Australia as companies across all industries attempt to find less expensive and more reliable ways to power their businesses.

The AEMO report found that the continued growth in rooftop PV in South Australia, increased energy efficiency and the closure of the automotive industry would lead to an overall 3.6 per cent decline in consumption from the grid in the state over the next decade.

South Australia consumes about 7 per cent of the energy available on the national grid it shares with New South Wales (37 per cent), Queensland (28 per cent), Victoria

(23 per cent) and Tasmania (5 per cent) The state’s position on the western edge of Australia’s national electricity grid has placed it at the mercy of the eastern states during times of peak demand for many years.

However, the closure of the coalfired Hazelwood plant in Victoria at the end of March and the recent announcement the Liddell Power Station in New South Wales will close in 2022 has spread shortfall concerns across the entire national grid.

Assoc Prof Diesendorf said the recent renewable energy investments in South Australia had made the state a big influencer in energy policy.

“South Australia is certainly influencing Victoria, which has now set its own substantial renewable energy target and is encouraging more solar and wind farms,” he said.

“It’s also an international beacon because it’s up there, as a large grid with about 50 per cent renewable electricity, alongside Denmark.”

“If the stars align, I see no problem long term in South Australia going to 100 per cent renewable electricity as early at 2035 provided it has a clear strategy to do that reliably.”

Australia’s Chief Scientist Dr Alan Finkel released an Independent Review into the Future Security of the National Electricity Market in June. It recommended Australia adopt a Clean Energy Target.

Duffy said the South Australian Government was now looking to the Federal Government to implement a national clean energy strategy.

“I think the blackout highlighted the issue as part of a national agenda rather than just being something South Australia needs to be aware of,” he said.

“We’re looking for a long-term Commonwealth response to have a Clean Energy Target, so that we can have a long-term investment framework that helps the transition to meet Australia’s Paris climate agreement commitments.”

South Australia accounts for about 40per cent of Australia’s wind generated electricity.

Since the 2016 AEMO report, no new generation withdrawals have been announced in South Australia and 220MW of new solar generation and 109MW of new wind generation has met AEMO’s commitment criteria, totalling 329MW of new committed generation.

Additionally, the capacity of all renewable projects proposed in South Australia currently totals about 4500MW.

October 2017 | Farming Monthly | 31

| Slurry

Green Bedding separator from Greencrop Greencrop, the official importer of the Sepcom range of slurry separators for farm and AD, offer the Visscher/Sepcom green bedding separator, manufactured by the Italian Wam Group and Visscher Holland. reen bedding has now become of great interest in the UK after its popularity in the USA and Europe for some years. Visscher have been involved from the beginning, and have developed an automatic separator system and have over 450 working units in Holland (both static and mobile). They also have over 90 in Germany, plus units in Italy, Belgium, Denmark, Portugal, Lapland and now a number of units installed in the UK. After a full review the process has now been accepted in the UK. The Visscher/Sepcom green bedding separator is designed to produce recycled bedding material from the separated slurry. The benefits of this system give cow’s better comfort in the cubicle, helps keep them cleaner and help to reduce mastitis levels in the heard, whilst also reducing bedding costs. The separator has a lower electrical demand than other machines as it is fitted with a 5.5kw motor. Due to its larger screen area and auto adjusting head, its power requirement is

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reduced. The Visscher/Sepcom will produce bedding with a dry matter content of 33-37 per cent.

The unique polymer sectional auger as standard, which has proved itself on other Sepcom separators for its cleaning ability during use as well as significant advantages in keeping the screens cleaner, it aids a higher degree of separation than a steel screw system. The final part of the separation is by a Visscher screen mounted in the centre of the solid core, this allows the moisture from the inside of the solids out through the centre, thus not trying to squeeze all of the liquid to the outside. This works in conjunction with the Patented Visscher automatic press module head which adapts the counter– pressure to the medium`s consistency. This allows the module to automatically apply optimum pressing force. The system will continuously adjust itself to the pre-set value and this has a very close relationship with the dry matter percentage and capacity.

The PLC controller can be adjusted to the dry matter

32 | Farming Monthly | October 2017

content/mass balance desired for nutrients and dryness. Only about 70% of the daily produced slurry is needed for bedding, a simple turn of a dial on the panel decreases the amps, saving energy costs and produces a faster standard separation DM for spreading on to

the land. This means you don’t have to climb up and adjust the separator outlet manually every time.

For further information please contact Greencrop at enquiries@greencrop.co.uk or visit www.greencrop.co.uk

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Slurry

Storth machinery: Engineered to perform Ammonia Gas is a major contributor to air pollution across the globe and at Storth, we knew we could do more to help reduce air pollution. ollowing intense research, we designed and produced a complete range of Slurry Handling Machinery, to suit the everchanging needs of Farmers and Contractors worldwide. We listened to and responded to our customers and designed a complete system, starting with the cow, ending back in the field.

As most Gas Emissions are released on the spreading of Slurry, Storth manufactured in our British based factory, a range of galvanised Dribble Bars and a Trailing Shoe Injectors, to help assist with precision application, whilst meeting the most demanding needs of the agricultural market. This type of slurry application assists with the amount of nutrients available to crops, as traditional methods of spreading slurry see that most nutrients are lost in the atmosphere, releasing the harmful

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Ammonia Gas. Our range of Dribble Bars reduce the surface area of which slurry is exposed to, lowering nutrient losses by as much as 5% in comparison to Spreader Bars.

Every farm is different, therefore Storth developed a range of Umbilical Equipment to help accommodate most farmers and as such, the Vertical Fold Dribble Bar and the Trailing Shoe Injector were made. The Vertical Fold Dribble Bar incorporates a close coupled central frame design, giving narrow transport width, as well as the strength to facilitate the optional HD Female A-frame. Prior to slurry being applied to the ground, it is processed by the NovaCut Macerator, giving an even-better consistency to the slurry being applied. The Trailing Shoe Injector, is designed for use on grassland and arable land, for applying slurry to the soil surface with minimum contamination to the plant leaves. To find out more, please visit our website

www.storthmachinery.co.uk

October 2017 | Farming Monthly | 33

| Slurry

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| Slurry

Making best use of a valuable resource Of all the techniques available for putting cattle slurry on to grassland, the simple dribble bar has become the firm favourite amongst farmers in Scotland, according to a contractor’s experience. ee Dacre has been handling farm slurry pretty much since he started contracting 12 years ago, operating on dairy and beef farms south-west of Dumfries. He runs two umbilical outfits, each comprising a tractor-mounted dribble bar, a reeler for the hose, and an engine-powered pumping set.

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“Running costs have been absolutely zero over the past four years and 3700 hours of work, even though it’s handled around 70 million gallons of slurry in that time” The pump set supplied by Bauer dealer Gordons at Castle Douglas features a Bauer Magnum SX2000 centrifugal pump, which in a true sense is the beating heart of the whole operation.

“The pump has a big influence

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on our efficiency and running costs,” says Lee Dacre. “We’re typically pumping slurry on level going at close to 200cu m/hr but more like 120-140cu m/hr uphill when it can be a hard slog for the engine, but it’s a fuel-efficient outfit thanks to the efficiency of the pump.

“The Bauer Magnum is not cheap because of the specification and high quality materials used,” he acknowledges. ”But running costs have been absolutely zero over the past four years and 3700 hours of work, even though it’s handled around 70 million gallons of slurry in that time.”

Apart from changing the gearbox oil and adjusting the cutter plate twice a year to compensate for slight impeller wear, the unit has not been touched, he adds. And re-setting the cutter plate is a simple 15-20 minute job completed using externally-mounted adjusters.

“When the time comes to a change the different make of that’s on a set I bought second-hand, there’ll be another Magnum going

in, no question, because of its proven performance, durability and low running costs,” says Mr Dacre.

Magnum SX centrifugal pumps feature a suction flange with a ribbed inlet and flow control function, an impeller of spheroidal graphite iron with hardened cutting edges and a cutting flange made of chromium steel casting.

Back vanes on the cast impeller keep the large seal area free of debris and the lack of internal bolt heads minimises turbulence inside the impeller housing.

October 2017 | Farming Monthly | 35

| Buildings

The Equipment Register (TER) is Europe’s largest managed database of theft and ownership records for used Plant and Agricultural equipment, providing a specialist online service for due diligence since 1995.

We work closely with many sectors within the industry, ranging from members of the public, dealerships, auction houses and law enforcement to not only safeguard reputation but also help reduce financial loss.

Without carrying out vital due diligence this can make unwitting buyers and sellers vulnerable to substantial financial loss.

It is government policy in virtually every country to reduce the ability of criminals to sell stolen items by encouraging due diligence searching by buyers, finance houses/lenders, dealers, auction houses, insurers, and other parties. It helps reduce theft as criminals find they cannot sell stolen goods at or for much less than market price which becomes a clear indicator.

TER offers the public the opportunity to carry out proper due diligence checks that are essential to safeguard buyers, sellers and owners against criminal An example of this is TER’s monthly onsite presence at activity.

Cheffins machinery auction. Cheffins, who host the The cost of a TER check is negligible compared to the world’s largest monthly plant and agricultural sale, cost of the machinery, inconvenience, financial and carry out scrupulous checks to ensure that the firm reputational damage that can occur if stolen does not deal in stolen goods. equipment is purchased without checking.

To help strengthen these checks, TER are present at TER is offering readers of Farming Monthly a 15% the monthly auctions, checking all lots against their reduction on the regular cost of the check until the database, substantially reducing the chance of a sale 31st of January 2018. Simply enter the promotional of stolen goods. code FARM2017 before you check out of the payment The market for second-hand machinery is particularly section. vulnerable to fraud and theft. In 2016 alone 2,996 stolen items of stolen machinery were reported.

Check equipment, get valuations, register items, get security advice, report theft and improve the chance of recovery.

36 | Farming Monthly | October 2017

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| Buildings

During the last 12 months reported thefts of pre-2010 machinery have increased, as thieves are targeting plant and machinery that was not factory fitted with immobilisers or security markings.

This is particularly true of mini diggers and smaller dumpers without the latest theft protection. Reported thefts of Quad bikes and trailers have also risen during the last 12 months.

Before buying machinery, particularly pre-2011 machinery it is important that due diligence checks are made; for post 2011 machinery it is important to check that there is no outstanding finance on the item. TER checks are made through our website www.tereurope.org Unfortunately, when older machinery is stolen the victim often does not have all the details (serial, engine, chassis numbers) to report the theft making it easier for the thieves. Registering your equipment with TER means that all the details are securely held. This service is free for up to 5 items of plant and equipment. Please visit our website www.tereurope.org.

If your machinery is stolen you can report it directly to TER through our website.

TER is dedicated to making it harder for thieves to profit from theft by making it harder for them to sell stolen equipment.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

October 2017 | Farming Monthly | 37

| Security

New police operation launched to tackle poaching in Wiltshire Wiltshire police have recently launched Operation Artemis in a bid to tackle all aspects of poaching across the county. he public are encouraged to report all incidents of poaching to help build a better intelligence picture and enable our officers to target offenders through rural operations.

The operation will also aim to advise our rural communities how they can best prevent and disrupt poaching activity on their land.

The operation sits under the nationally recognised poaching operation Project Trespass which aims to coordinate action across England and Wales through prevention, intelligence, enforcement and reassurance.

Rural Crime Officer PC Marc Jackson said: “As part of the rural crime partnership we have listened to the concerns of landowners,

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farmers, game keepers and agricultural workers within Wiltshire.

“We understand the impact poaching has on their livelihoods and the resulting fear of crime that comes from this.

“We want Operation Artemis to reassure our rural communities that we do take poaching seriously, and anybody found to be committing such offences here will be dealt with robustly. Wiltshire is not a soft touch and we will use the full legislation powers that have been given to us as the police.

“The image of poaching has drastically changed over the years.

The idea of poachers just taking one for the pot is no longer the case.

“Many of the groups involved

38 | Farming Monthly | October 2017

are very organised and travel vast distances, across numerous counties to participate in poaching.

“Often poaching involves vast amounts of money through illegal betting and can be connected to other crimes like burglaries, thefts and can involve intimidation and violence towards landowners and gamekeepers.”

Poaching becomes more frequent when the harvests come down at the end of the summer, peaking in October and December. This year harvests have been early so potential poachers can access the fields earlier than usual meaning we are already seeing an increase in poaching in September.

Poaching can take many forms, from hare coursing, shooting deer

at night to using catapults to take pheasants.

Police and Crime Commissioner Angus Macpherson said: “Wiltshire is a rural county and those living in isolated locations can be vulnerable to crime types that do not affect urban areas.

“It is important that the Force police rural crime as part of its overall policing.

“Rural crime can have a huge impact on local people and businesses. I welcome this new operation and applaud the ongoing work being done by the Rural Crime Team and the Wiltshire Rural Crime Partnership to help keep Wiltshire safe.”

When reporting incidents, call 101 and quote ‘Operation Artemis’.

If a crime is in progress call 999.

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| Security

ATVTrac re-launched with added value Renowned asset tracking experts, BikeTrac have re-launched their popular ATV device, now known as ATVTrac and offering farmers, estate managers, local authorities and individual users real peace of mind from theft. long established and proven product in the motorcycle security market, BikeTrac moved into the ATV field in 2012, offering customers a comprehensive Thatcham approved device that quickly gained recognition and endorsement from major manufacturers.

Bike Trac’s Bill Taylor announced relaunched ATV version, commenting, “With the re-launch of ATVTrac we’re now offering a dedicated team for the ATV sector, bringing market specialists onboard and developing the dealer network both in the UK and Ireland.

“On top if this, we’re now offering a simplified service with first-year subscription fees now included in the purchase price, while our dedicated online portal allows the view of multiple units under one log-in. This combined with endorsement from Can-Am, Kawasaki and Polaris and Suzuki offers additional peace of mind.”

ATVTrac’s technology means that as soon as a machine is unlawfully moved, the unit will send the owner a text and email to notify movement, with the system automatically triggering a breadcrumb trail on the online portal for the user and law enforcement authorities to track. On top of this, the system also keeps tabs on battery voltage, notifying the owner again via text or email if it drops below a certain level, as well as the unique ‘ATV

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Over’ function too that notifies a colleague or loved-one if a machine tips over an 80-degree angle with the ignition switched on.

On top of these functions, ATVTrac can really score for fleet users too, where the online portal can track numerous machines on one-screen allowing central control centres to know the exact whereabouts of their machines and staff, to be able to manage and react on location to jobs or tasks as they occur, as well as additional peace of mind for lone workers and farmer safety.

With this know-how and the latest technology built in to ATVTrac, users are not only able to track the whereabouts of their machine night and day via the online web portal, but can also use the unit to view usage on satellite mapping, keep tabs on mileage and hours used. Users even know if a machine is involved in a roll-over incident. In the event of a theft RF (radio frequency) is utilised to help locate the vehicle if it has been hidden in a container / garage / van or out house.

ATVTrac is backed up by BikeTrac’s Secure Operations Centre that also receives alerts and works with the authorities on your behalf to track and recover stolen machines.

ATVTrac has a recommended retail price of £399 inc VAT, plus install from our growing network of dealers and with the first year subscription included in the purchase price.

Further subscription costs £9.99 per month or £99.99 per year. ATVTrac has no other hidden

costs, all text notifications and emails are included in the subscription cost. And for the launch all NFU members can claim a 12.5% discount off the unit price. And by using CESAR an additional 12.5% discount is available, 25% discount in total.

For consumer enquiries please contact hello@atvtrac.co.uk

October 2017 | Farming Monthly | 39

| Forestry

Branch out with woodland The Forestry Commission is encouraging landowners and land managers to start planning now to apply for funding for woodland creation available through the 2018 Countryside Stewardship Scheme. pplication forms and guidance for the Countryside Stewardship woodland creation grant are now available online. This is much earlier than in previous years; giving landowners, managers and agents more time to develop their plans ahead of the window for submitting applications opens in January 2018.

Countryside stewardship offers two year capital grants of up to £6,800 per hectare to support

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ground preparation, fencing and tree protection and initial maintenance, and an option to subsequently apply for a maintenance payment for up to 10 years, covering the initial period while trees become established.

This funding aims to create woodlands for biodiversity, water quality and flood management.

But woodlands also offer economic opportunities in rural areas. As woodlands mature they can provide a good source of income thanks to thriving timber and woodfuel industries and

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multiple recreational uses. Other benefits include carbon storage, shelter for livestock and improved soil.

If you have land available and want to realise some or all of these benefits by planting new woodland you are encouraged to start preparing applications for the funding now. Applicants are advised to contact the Forestry Commission as early as possible to get the most out of the advice and assistance on offer.

The application process has been improved this year, making it easier to apply. For example, the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) requirements are now an integrated part of the application process, making it clearer and easier.

Richard Greenhous, Director of Forest Services for Forestry Commission England said: “By investing in woodlands now, you will be in the best position to reap the benefits of a sector with a bright future, thanks to rising timber prices and new opportunities in carbon storage.

By planting trees now, you are also investing long term in our landscape and environment.

“Our Forestry Commission teams are on hand to advise on applications and help you make

the most of funding available to create valuable new woodland.

We can help applicants ensure they have all the information they need to plant the right trees in the right places, in order to meet your project’s goals.

“We look forward to hearing from applicants who want to reap the economic, environmental and social benefits of sustainable woodland creation.”

The Woodland Creation Grant is open to all land managers - owner occupiers; tenants, land lords and licensors, as long as they have control of all the land and all the activities needed to meet the obligations of the grant for the full duration of the agreement.

Successful applicants will receive: a 2 year capital grant (for ground preparation, fencing and tree protection and initial maintenance, including new this year wall top netting and access infrastructure) opportunity to apply for annual maintenance payments for up to ten years (to ensure the best start for your woodland) To access the forms and guidance please visit: https://www.gov.uk/government/co llections/countryside-stewardshipwoodland-support

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Energy

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

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

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

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

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

Mawsley Machinery Brixworth, Northampton T: 01604 880621 https://mawsley.stihl-dealer.co.uk

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

Davenport Western Yeovil, Somerset T: 01935 425311 www.davenportsaws.co.uk

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October 2017 | Farming Monthly | 41

| SALTEX

SALTEX: Your industry - your show Europe’s largest annual turf management event is set to offer limitless opportunities. hen SALTEX 2017 opens its doors at the NEC Birmingham on 1 and 2 November, all those working in or associated with the grounds care industry will be offered a world of limitless opportunities in which they can discover the latest trends and innovations, connect with colleagues and learn from top industry professionals.

SALTEX 2017 is once again set to be the unmissable annual event for grounds care professionals and manufacturers from all over the globe. From show features, to educational topics, the show is continually evolving with the people of the industry in mind. Here’s why…

Over 300 exhibitors – See the best in innovation & excellence With over 300 exhibitors on the show floor, many of whom plan to launch a multitude of new products, SALTEX 2017 is set to play host to the most technologically advanced equipment showcase in grounds management.

The exhibition continues to attract some of the sector’s biggest names ensuring that visitors can again expect to see an impressive line-up of world-class innovation for use by managers of pitch, grounds, landscaping, park and estates. John Deere, Toro, Ransomes Jacobsen and Kubota have all confirmed that they will be returning to the show for a third consecutive year to showcase their latest product innovations. They will be joined by

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companies such as STIHL, ICL, Rigby Taylor, DLF Trifolium, Dennis & SISIS, Charterhouse Turf Machinery, Advanced Turf Technology, Fleet Line Markers, plus many more leading companies.

Learning LIVE – Your door to the future Now in its third year, SALTEX’s free-to-attend education programme has gone from strength to strength. For 2017, the programme will follow the same successful format developed over the past two years situated within four purpose-built seminar theatres on the show floor with state-of-the-art sound systems and screens.

There will be a number of expert speakers from the UK and abroad focusing on issues that surround the industry and visitors can expect to hear from the likes of Jonathan Calderwood (Paris Saint-Germain FC); Steve Chappell (PGA Centenary Golf Course at the Gleneagles Hotel); Mark Pover (The Football Association); Allen Reed (FC Dallas); Chris Wood (ECB); Justin Smith (All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club); Roy Rigby (Manchester City FC); John Moverley (The Amenity Forum); Lee Marshallsay (Charterhouse School); Ben Hastie (Cheltenham Racecourse); John Ledwidge (Leicester City FC); Stuart Kerrison (Essex CCC) and many, many more.

IOG and Basis CPD points are also available for all Learning LIVE sessions.

Outdoor Demonstrations – See what

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| SALTEX products will work for you As well as a wide range of innovative products on display within the three large halls, visitors to SALTEX will have the chance to see many of these in action through the outdoor demonstrations which will be taking place on a grass area directly outside the SALTEX halls 6,7 and 8.

The SALTEX College Cup – Putting student turf managers on the big stage The SALTEX College Cup, sponsored by Ransomes, is a national student-led sports-turf challenge that will take place on the first day of SALTEX. It is an academic test of turf management knowledge for student competitors in teams of four who are enrolled at colleges throughout the UK on relevant courses of study. Last year’s winners CAFRE College in Antrim, Northern Ireland, experienced an unforgettable day when they were part of the Wembley grounds team at the showpiece of the UK’s most historic sporting competition – the FA Cup Final. SALTEX College Cup winners 2017 will get the chance to get involved with pitch preparation at the 6 Nations, Scotland vs England rugby match, at BT Murrayfield Stadium.

Pathology & Soil Science LIVE – Improve your soil profile The Pathology & Soil Science LIVE area will be located on the IOG Hub (stand number C180) from 11am to 1pm each day and will allow visitors to look in detail at the symptoms of some common turfgrass fungal disease problems, as infected plants are magnified and displayed on a large screen. Visitors who may have any soil profiles that are causing problems or concerns are welcome to bring in their own samples to discover how it could be improved.

Pathology & Soil Science LIVE will be hosted

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by renowned turf consultant Alex Vickers and MD of the Turf Disease Centre Kate Entwistle.

The Young Groundsmen’s Conference – The first steps to a rewarding career Sponsored by Rigby Taylor/Top Green and organised by the (Institute of Groundsmanship’s (IOG) Young Board of Directors, the Young Groundsmen’s Conference, is an ideal opportunity for young people looking to advance their career in the groundscare industry, and will offer information on educational opportunities, a guide to what some of the top grounds managers are looking for in a young recruit, and the chance to hear from industry professionals working at some of the most elite venues in the world.

Ask the Expert – Free personal advice For face-to-face turf care advice, visitors can speak directly to one of eight IOG regional pitch advisors linked to The FA, the ECB, and the Football Foundation-funded Grounds & Natural Turf Improvement Programme. This feature will be available through the free Ask the Expert advice centre located on Stand E180.

New for 2017 – The Job Clinic – Stand out from the crowd Visitors can visit SALTEX 2017’s new feature - the Job Clinic. Located on the IOG Hub, industry expert Frank Newberry will be hosting 15-minute one-to-one sessions covering CV writing to interview techniques. To book an appointment with Frank, visitors are advised to go to the IOG information desk on the IOG Hub as early as possible to avoid disappointment.

The IOG Industry Awards – Celebrating the very best in groundsmanship SALTEX will once again be combined with the IOG’s annual Industry Awards dinner. Held on the evening of the first day (1 November) at the National Conference Centre, within the

National Motorcycle Museum, which is near to the NEC, the event will be hosted by talkSPORT Radio’s Mark Saggers.

The ceremony is the UK’s biggest celebration in groundsmanship; with a record number of 22 awards up for grabs this year. Kev Orkian, a musical comedian who is a Britain's Got Talent finalist, has entertained royalty and headlined in Las Vegas, will be on hand to provide the after dinner entertainment.

Located in the centre of the UK, whether you are travelling from overseas or within the UK, the NEC is easy to get to by car, rail or air.

SALTEX 2017 is free to attend. To register your attendance and beat the queues visit www.iogsaltex.com Follow SALTEX on Twitter @IOG_SALTEX and Facebook – www.facebook.com/IOGSALTEX

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| Education

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| Education

Coleg Cambria Llysfasi Llysfasi is located in the beautiful Vale of Clwyd, near the market town of Ruthin, and is within short travelling distances from Shropshire, Powys, Cheshire, and the Wirral. tudents can enjoy free transport from key areas around these counties, subject to eligibility. There is also excellent on-site accommodation which is ideal especially for those who come to the College from further afield.

Llysfasi has a range of departments, namely Agriculture, Agricultural Engineering, Animal Care, Countryside and Wildlife Conservation and Forestry and Arboriculture.

Alongside the successful farm and agricultural offer, Llysfasi also has a range of other high profile land-based courses, supported by new workshops for agricultural engineering and plant machinery.

The Animal Management Centre gives students experience of small animals and they have access to the range of large animals which supports their employability skills in all areas of animal health and welfare. This also gives them the knowledge

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and hands on skills to progress their careers through employment or higher education in a range of subjects including vet nursing and veterinary care.

The College has a successful countryside management department which incorporates, Forestry and Arboriculture and Countryside and Wildlife Conservation. These courses have direct access to the whole farm estate which includes the excellent commercial woodland and forests which gives students an outstanding practical resource to develop their skills.

Teaching staff at the College are all highly trained individuals with many years experience in industry and are passionate about providing a high quality student experience to ensure that they are ready to progress to either employment or higher level courses.

College welcomes Ian Clinton OBE as new Principal North Shropshire College (NSC) has welcomed the new Interim Principal and Chief Executive, Ian Clinton OBE who has taken over from previous Interim, Peter McCann. an is a highly experienced and qualified Principal and the College is looking forward to continuing the significant improvements which have been seen within the College this year including Residential Care, Teaching and Learning and also the Nursery Provision.

Ian says of his new role at NSC, ‘I am delighted to be joining NSC at the start of what I am sure, will be a busy & very successful year.

The range of courses offered by the college is increasing yet again this year and my new colleagues and I welcome the chance to enhance the career prospects of our current and new students and, of course, meeting the needs of local and regional business and employers. I am sure my talented staff and I, with the support of our Board, will continue to develop and build on last year's many successes. A bonus for me is the great location and I am enjoying Oswestry already!’

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Gillian Richards, Chair of Governors comments on Ian’s arrival, “The Board is delighted with the achievements the College has enjoyed, and we expect these will continue, through Ian’s firstclass leadership of the team of committed professionals that work at the College.”

For more information, or to apply for courses starting in September 2017, please visit the website at www.nsc.ac.uk or call reception on 01691 688000

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| Machinery

Farming machinery and techniques to launch at Notts event Local farmers are looking forward to the return of a popular machinery show where new products, machinery and technology are set to be unveiled. he Midlands Machinery Show is taking place on Wednesday 22 and Thursday 23 November at Newark Showground in Nottinghamshire.

More than 250 agricultural businesses are exhibiting at the event – organised by the Newark and Nottinghamshire Agricultural Society - which will not only give them the opportunity to discuss advances in their products and services, but also allow farmers to discover how such techniques can help to improve the productivity of their land.

Joe Allen from Gainsboroughbased Chafer Machinery has exhibited at the event since it was set up four years ago and says it has reaped dividends for the firm, which manufactures specialist spraying equipment.

He said: “Midlands Machinery

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Show is an ideal opportunity for farmers and agricultural businesses to congregate and discuss how the farming industry is faring across the country.

“They really benefit from meeting others within their community, seeing new technology and actually being able to spend time talking to other exhibitors about how their machinery and products can benefit their farms.”

George Taylor, Midlands Machinery Show manager said: “Technology is advancing at a fast rate within the agricultural industry, and it is really important farmers invest their time in attending events, such as the Midlands Machinery Show, to determine how this can be used to increase productivity and improve efficiency on their farms.”

As well as new technology being showcased, soil health and drones which can help improve

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precision farming, are being discussed as part of a series of expert seminars by crop precisionist Hutchinsons. JRH Water Management, which specialises in rain water harvesting and water technology, will also be holding a professional seminar throughout the event.

Joe continued: “Midlands Machinery Show is an event to do business, and I am very much looking forward to this year’s event to showcase our crop spraying equipment, and a selection of chemical and fertiliser applicators, whilst also networking with other farmers from across the region and beyond.”

For anyone looking to upgrade

their 4 x 4 in the near future, there will be an opportunity to test drive a selection of new vehicles on a specifically designed off-road course, courtesy of Trenton, Stoneacre, Listers, Nunns, Duckworth and Hatfields dealerships and sponsored by Woldmarsh, The Farmers Buying Group.

To find out more about how to exhibit your farming business at this year’s Midlands Machinery Show visit www.midlandsmachineryshow.co m For regular show updates please follow the show on Twitter @Midsmachinery17 or join the conversation at #MMS2017

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| Machinery

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| Machinery

New generation of ARION A New Generation of sprayers from FarmGEM 600 and 500 tractors has been designed and trialed and are now available

The CLAAS AXION 900 series of high powered tractors for contractors and larger farms was first launched in 2011 and quickly established itself on the market. It is particularly appreciated for its enormous tractive power, perfectly matched engine and transmission, exceptional ease of operation and high fuel efficiency.

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The range has also been extended and now includes amenity, orchard & vineyard, mounted, trailed and selfpropelled sprayers.

he amenity, mounted vertical fold boom and some trailed models being completely new, but retaining many familiar FarmGEM features and options.

Managing Director Terry Fixter said “it was time to refresh our offering of machines, so after listening to the needs of existing owners and operators we have designed new models incorporating new features and the very latest technology. We have also updated our logo and colour scheme to mark this New Generation of machines” The new models in the trailed range are the Innovator, Pioneer and Atlas. The Innovator Trailed Sprayer offers customers a budget a machine with a 24 metre boom. It retains a high quality finish and robust build strength and features such as rate control terminal with a 5.7” colour screen, 7 spray sections and fluid re-circulation. The Pioneer model replaces the popular Diamond model and retains the proven “Self-Trak” drawbar, has axle

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LAAS now presents the new generation of the AXION 900 series, which has undergone systematic refinement and offers many new features. These include more powerful engines with a lowspeed concept, optimised CMATIC transmission control, the new CEBIS terminal with touch display and CMOTION multifunction control lever, as well as the new CIS+ equipment option with multifunction armrest.

Powerful engines and a new top model delivering up to 445 hp All new AXION 900 models have the proven and highly and sophisticated 6-cylinder FPT Cursor 9 engine with 8.7 litre cubic capacity. This engine meets all the requirements of the Stage IV (Tier 4) emissions standard. It also has a new, variable geometry turbo as standard equipment, delivering optimum charge-air pressure according to the current load and engine speed.

As a result, 70% of maximum torque is available even when idling. The maximum output of these models (AXION 920 – 960) has been increased and now ranges from 325 to 445 hp (in accordance with ECE R 120). As usual, the new AXION 900 tractors transfer their full power from a standing start and at all forward speeds without a boost.

More torque at lower speeds Thanks to the advanced lowspeed concept, the AXION 900 engine develops 18% more torque

suspension, joystick control and a rate control terminal with a 8.4” colour screen. The feature packed Atlas tops the new range, it comes with auto axle steering, air suspension, boom widths to 28m or to 36m with the “Tri Fold boom.

All models have either 3300 or 4400lt tanks, the two stage folding heavy duty “Series 3” boom with “3D” active boom suspension controlling boom bounce, incline and yaw, providing a very stable platform for the spray nozzles, the bounce suspension remains active when the boom is in its transport position, protecting the boom when travelling over rough farm tracks and roads. DGPS auto section or individual nozzle control, ultra-sonic auto boom levelling, LED night lighting and many more new features are available. They are also covered by the FarmGEM three year construction warranty.

than previously at a lower speed (up to 200 rpm lower). This reduces fuel consumption and guarantees optimum driving performance for all field and transport applications.

Further fuel savings of approximately 2 litres per hour are achieved by automatically reducing the idling speed from 800 to 650 rpm when stationary. In ECO PTO mode, up to 95% of the maximum engine output is transferred to the PTO shaft despite the reduced engine speed, allowing heavy implements to be operated at a lower engine speed.

Continuously variable CMATIC transmission with updated hardware and software All models in the new AXION 900 series are equipped as standard with the updated, continuously variable ZF Terramatic transmission which has proved itself in the AXION 800. It has been adapted to the higher output of these tractors and features outstanding stability and power transmission with a high mechanical component, providing optimum efficiency in all speed ranges from 0.05 to 50 km/h.

For more information visit www.farmgem.co.uk or call Cliff on 07825 180948

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| ATV

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| ATV

Polaris twin peaks

Now the Polaris Ranger Diesel and Ranger XP900 are virtually identical twins and both offer peak performance. ou have the choice of a petrol engine with the Ranger 68hp XP900 ProStar engine that is purpose built, tuned and designed for balanced and smooth, reliable power. The Engine Management System (EMS) delivers the torque and horsepower you need while allowing for optimal fuel economy. Should you prefer Diesel, the Ranger Diesel HD is built for purpose as well with a 1028cc Kohler 3-cylinder overhead cam liquid-cooled engine. This proven, high performance diesel engine utilizes indirect injection and delivers smooth power with reduced combustion noise. The compact, heavy-duty design has a cast iron crankcase for durability and an aluminium cylinder head for weight reduction.

Both these twins are real workhorses with Active Descent Control for controlled hill descents,

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automatic four-wheel braking on steep inclines and Electronic Power Steering. To make life really comfortable, the industry exclusive Lock & Ride Pro-Fit cab system provides a new standard in accessory integration. The highly modular design offers options from robust canvas doors and a poly windscreen, to premium automotive glass tip-out windscreens and electric windows. The roof and rear panel on the Rangers come as standard. The ideal seat height combines with wide foot clearance for easy entry and exit. There’s a full ten inches of tilt steering adjustment and room for three adults. The payload capacity on these machines is 680.4 kg, with a gasassisted rear dump box that can handle a hefty 454 kg of materials and a full-sized pallet. A 7-pin trailer socket comes fitted as standard and when it comes to towing there’s 907kg of class-leading towing capacity on tap. When the going

gets rough the on-demand all-wheel drive kicks in for more forward traction when its needed, reverting back to 2WD when the terrain smoothes out.

Smooth is what these Polaris Rangers are all about, from the ride and handling to the descent down steep inclines, the 30.5cm ground clearance, power steering and VersaTrac Turf Mode that unlocks the rear differential for easier, tighter turns that won’t tear up grass. All new Polaris Rangers and Sportsman models (excluding

Youth) also come fitted with CESAR security systems as standard. And if you’re not quite ready to purchase a new Ranger there is, in addition to the XP900, the even more powerful petrol Ranger XP1000 coming along for 2018.

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

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| ATV

Kawasaki

British Superbike star Leon Haslam takes delivery of a Mule Pro‑DX

British Superbike star and JG Speedfit Kawasaki rider Leon Haslam has added to his collection of Kawasakis by taking delivery of a new Kawasaki Mule Pro-DX utility vehicle.

ith a career largely spent racing in the British and World Superbike championships, Haslam is usually associated with two wheels but when it comes to life at home on his Derbyshire farm, he needs something with a wheel in each corner – something that’s tough and capable of handling serious hard work.

With selectable two and four-wheel drive plus rear differential lock, power steering, 907kg towing potential and a tipping cargo bed capable of holding 453kg, the Mule Pro-DX makes light work of tough jobs. Haslam plans to put it to work straight away and said: ‘We’ve got wild boar, deer and horse liveries on the farm so transporting food and hay for the animals is really important and having the Mule Pro-DX with its large cargo bed will make that job a lot easier and quicker. I also do a lot of training here on my motocross bike so I’ll be using the Mule for moving dirt along with towing rollers and trailers.

‘Unlike a lot of utility vehicles I’ve used previously, with the Mule you’re fully enclosed with windscreen and doors, which means that when the winter months roll around, I’ll be better protected from the weather while I’m at work using it to move things around the farm.’

With a high torque three-cylinder diesel engine, the Mule Pro-DX isn’t quite as potent as the 200+bhp Ninja ZX-10RR Haslam races in the British Superbike Championship, but after a short initial test drive, he was impressed and said: ‘The land that we’ve got here is very undulating so being able to get up the hills

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while carrying things and towing heavy loads is really useful. From what I’ve experienced of it so far, the Mule makes light work of climbing up banks and hills. Getting through bogs and troughs doesn’t seem to be an issue and I’m keen to get it out on the MX track and am looking forward to getting things done with minimal effort.’

Simon Riches, ATV and Mule Product Manager at Kawasaki UK, said: ‘With the recent introduction of the Mule Pro models into the UK market, it’s now becoming the choice of many professionals with its strong Mule heritage stretching back over 30 years.

The Mule Pro-DX and DXT models have rapidly gained a reputation for reliability and performance and its fantastic to see Leon has recognised this in his choice of utility vehicle for use at home on his farm.’

For more information, or to view the whole utility range from Kawasaki, visit: www.kawasaki.co.uk For more information

Contact your nearest dealer

Day & Coles Ltd Newton Close, Park Farm Ind. Est. Wellingborough NN8 6UW 01933 673900

D H Wadsworth & Sons Malton - 01653 692244 Flockton - 01924 840319 www.wadsworthquads.co.uk

Southam Agri. Services Southam, Warwickshire CV47 2DH 01926 813426 http://southamagri.co.uk

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| ATV

Honda ATV

The ideal solution for outdoor stock care this winter

With winter approaching and the challenge of looking after livestock outdoors the Honda Pioneer 700 utility vehicle will be a very welcome addition to any farm fleet. he new utility vehicle offers the same goanywhere ability as Honda’s range of conventional ATVs and has a powerful 675cc petrol engine driving through an efficient torque converter transmission allowing it to carry and tow heavy farm loads with ease. Independent suspension front and rear with an impressive 27cm ground clearance makes it ideal for rutted field gateways or farm tracks, and selectable 4wd with locking differentials ensures a firm grip on slippery grass slopes, or for travelling through deep mud or snow.

The Pioneer’s petrol engine is quieter and smoother than diesel engine-powered alternatives. This advantage has proved especially popular with gamekeepers and other users spending long working hours on the machine. Excellent fuel economy from the low-revving power unit keeps running costs low and a large 30-litre fuel tank allows long operating periods without refuelling. The compact engine and transmission is centremounted, low down in the vehicle, helping ensure excellent stability which is essential for safe hill farm operation.

The large rear load platform can carry up to 386kg of feed or bedding and, where even larger

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quantities are needed, the optional rear hitch provides up to 680kg towing capacity. Another benefit of the Pioneer over a conventional ATV is its ability to carry up to three passengers almost anywhere safely, including areas inaccessible to road-going 4x4s or tractors. This makes it ideal for tasks such as livestock handling away from the yard, where its ability to transport people and equipment wherever needed offers significant time and cost savings.

Comfortable, supportive seats and standard power steering along with well laid out controls make the new model easy and fun to drive and reduces driver fatigue during

extended operating periods. A range of weather protection options is available for the Pioneer including a full cab with ‘proper’ doors and even an effective heater to help clear windows of ice and condensation, and keep occupants warm and dry.

Powerful work lights are standard, ideal for travelling to and from work areas and checking stock after daylight hours.

Honda’s conventional ATV lineup is a firm favourite with farmers and includes utility models from 250 to 680cc with manual or automatic transmission. Sharing many proven design features, the new Pioneer 700 complement the

range, offering a practical option for those with larger or heavier loads to carry or personnel to transport around the farm.

Like the full range of Honda’s conventional ATVs, the Pioneer comes complete with free-ofcharge operator training through the industry’s EASI scheme helping ensure users drive safely and get the best from their machines. The same 2-year manufacturer’s warranty provides peace of mind for owners and your local main dealer will have fully trained sales and service staff ready to look after your requirements.

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| Motors

Born confident? Order your T-Roc now!

Volkswagen is shaking up the SUV sector with the arrival of its stylish new compact SUV: the T-Roc. And, echoing the new car’s marketing tagline, those ‘born confident’ are being invited to order the new model at Volkswagen Retailers nationwide. o secure one of the initial 1,000 new T-Rocs on offer, and become among the first in the UK to drive it when cars arrive in showrooms and deliveries begin in December, buyers are being invited to visit their local Retailer to order their new car.

It is anticipated that demand for the initial cars will be strong, even before a more comprehensive line-up of T-Roc trim levels opens for order in December, and as an extra incentive this first group of 1,000 retail buyers are being offered smart T-Roc accessory running boards – worth £565 – free of charge, further helping them stand out from the SUV crowd.

The T-Roc sees Volkswagen enter a new market segment with this stylish and sporty model. Sitting beneath the established and extremely popular Tiguan SUV, and above the forthcoming new T-Cross small SUV, the T-Roc represents a key element of Volkswagen’s ongoing SUV offensive.

Form and function A wide and long stance allied to a relatively low roofline and steeply raked C-pillar underscore not only the T-Roc’s sporting style but also its dynamic and engaging ride and handling characteristics.

T-Roc measures 4,234 mm long (252 mm shorter than the Tiguan), and it has a 2,603 mm

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wheelbase. The SUV’s width is 1,819 mm (excluding door mirrors), and its height is 1,573 mm. For comparison, the current Golf measures 4,255 mm long, 1,799 mm wide (excluding mirrors), 1,452 mm high, and has a wheelbase of 2,637 mm.

Luggage space in the five-seat T-Roc is generous. Indeed the five-seat car has one of largest luggage compartments in its class – measuring 445 litres when loaded up to the top of the second row seat backrests.

Its styling is also defined by its short overhangs: (831 mm front, 800 mm rear) and large track widths of 1,546 mm (front) and 1,541 mm (rear).

Discussing the T-Roc’s distinctive looks Volkswagen Head of Design, Klaus Bischoff, said: “Volkswagen has created another authentic SUV with the new T-Roc. In launching this crossover we are also bringing a very expressive, even ‘sassy’, design to the streets.

This emotional component makes it likeable.

The T-Roc is therefore equally well suited for the urban world as it is for great adventures.

Engineered to perform Like its larger Tiguan sibling, the new T-Roc will in time be offered with a broad range of turbocharged engines: three petrol engines (TSI) and two diesels (TDI) units, with – depending on engine choice – the option of manual or DSG automatic gearboxes and in front- or 4MOTION all-wheel drive formats.

Every all-wheel drive version of the T-Roc also has 4MOTION Active Control with driving profile selection as standard. The system is operated via 4MOTION Active Control on the centre console. The driver uses it to activate four higher-level modes and various pop-up menus. When the rotary switch is turned to the left, one of the two on-road profiles is activated: ‘Street’ and ‘Snow’.

When the switch is turned to the right, the two off-road modes are available: ‘Offroad’ (automatic setting of off-road parameters) or ‘Offroad Individual’ (variable settings).

4MOTION Active Control adapts relevant assistance systems to the driving situation in seconds.

Driving Profile Selection is also included as standard in 4MOTION models. It allows the driver to individually control – depending on standard and optional equipment available – parameters for DSG; automatic air conditioning; electromechanical power steering; Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC). Five profiles – Comfort, Normal, Sport, Eco and Individual – are available. For models with front-wheel drive, Driving Profile Selection can be specified as an option.

For more details on all the new T-Roc, together with brochures and pricing, and to use Volkswagen’s online configurator, please visit www.volkswagen.co.uk

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| Motors

“Field Trip” ...ERS’s agriculture team visit Kimberley’s father’s farm

Giving farmers one less thing to worry about in the ever-changing agriculture sector Kimberley Dodd - Swansea team

RS has specialised in the provision of agricultural motor insurance policies for over 50 years and has an established team of specialist underwriters based at its London offices who deal exclusively with agriculture brokers and complex farming risks day to day. However, it has recently launched a new, dedicated agriculture operations unit, creating a bigger team that will be even more responsive to brokers and customers wanting easy access to its farming operations.

As Kimberley Dodd, assistant underwriter within the new team explains, “Many of us in the agriculture operations team have our own personal connection with the sector. In my case, my Dad grew up on a farm when he was a young boy and a year ago he made the leap into ‘Farmhood’ once again and bought a smallholding, with 10 acres of land. Having seen first-hand the time he’s put into organising the estate and making sure that his machinery and equipment was fit for purpose I can understand just what farmers have to contend with in addition to the day-to-day running of their farms.”

The agriculture operations team supports ERS’s established agricultural underwriting specialists who create bespoke motor policies for high-value agricultural vehicles as well as large rural estates. Based in Swansea, each

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Change is afoot in the farming industry. These are fascinating times within agriculture, with the sector facing a raft of challenges and opportunities, including the pros and cons of evolving areas of growth and of course, the ongoing dicsussion around Brexit and farm subsidies. member of the new 14-strong team has been given specialist training in the specifics of dealing with agricultural cases; including providing quotes, handling renewals and responding to claims within a certain reported timeframe.

“The moment a broker calls us, they know they’re speaking to someone who understands the industry inside-out,” says Kimberley. “The processes for compiling agriculture polices and handling claims differ significantly from those for standard motor insurance and being a dedicated team means that we can focus purely on our agriculture business. There is always someone here that can apply a specialist lens to an issue.”

The increasing presence of new and advanced machinery on farms, alongside more traditional vehicles, and with the growth of socalled ‘agri-tourism’, presents different risks should anything break down or malfunction.

The vast majority of farmers have insurance policies for exactly this reason.

According to Kimberley, “Having a father working in the industry certainly instils that sense of detail as I appreciate that for our brokers’ customers their farm IS their livelihood so they need us to be thorough when it comes to their specific requirements. When you have that perspective on things it helps you think outside the box when looking at an individual case. This manifests itself in a number of ways,

including the way we’re able to construct our policies – to make a policy which is often multifaceted in terms of the cover it provides, easy for farmers to reference and manage.”

As a broker-only insurer, ERS have made it their business to help agriculture brokers ensure that their clients are equipped with policies that fit their needs.

“Farmers may always be at the mercy of unpredictable external factors – particularly around major seasonal moments such as harvest time – but they deserve to have absolute certainty that vehicles and machinery will not let them down at this critical point in the calendar year”, notes Kimberley.

It’s an exciting time with new ideas and technology bringing a fresh vibrancy to the sector, but as the pace of change continues to accelerate, more than ever before, speed and efficiency of service is a must for any insurance provider. The creation of ERS’s dedicated agriculture team is a response to this customer need to ensure they can support all types of farming operation - however complex or diversified - giving busy farmers-cumentrepreneurs one less thing to worry about as they build successful and sustainable businesses.

To find out more about ERS go to ers.com

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| Motors

Be prepared: Škoda Kodiak Line-up gains new Scout model ŠKODA’s award-winning Kodiaq range is set to earn its badges with the arrival of a new Scout model. Priced from £32,330 and positioned between the SE L and Edition models, the Scout is the first new addition to the Kodiaq range since the seven-seater SUV arrived earlier this year. o meet anticipated customer demand, the Scout is available with six engine and transmission options, all of which feature fourwheel drive. The engine range consists of two petrol offerings, a 1.4 TSI unit that produces 150PS and a 2.0 TSI unit that generates 180PS. The 1.4 TSI is equipped with a six-speed manual transmission as standard with a seven-speed DSG available as an option, while the 2.0 TSI features a seven-speed DSG as standard.

Customers opting for diesel can choose between two 2.0 TDI units with outputs of 150PS and 190PS. The 150PS version offers the choice of a standard six-speed manual gearbox or a seven-speed DSG while the range-topping

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190PS version is equipped with a seven-speed DSG as standard.

In keeping with ŠKODA Scout models, the Kodiaq Scout comes with a tent-full of special features that mark it apart from other models in the range. The bespoke exterior design package includes special Scout off-road front and rear bumpers, a rear diffuser, Scout plaques on the front wings and silver door mirrors. 19-inch Crater Anthracite alloy wheels complete the rugged new look.

Inside, the Kodiaq Scout features Alcantara trimmed seats and door panels, along with wood finish dashboard and door inserts and a Scout plaque on the dashboard. Equipped with seven seats as standard, Scout cabin also features aluminium trimmed pedals and LED ambient lighting.

As befits a model bearing the

62 | Farming Monthly | October 2017

Scout badge, the newest member of the Kodiaq family is ideally equipped for adventures off the beaten track. All models are equipped with an off-road mode that adapts the chassis, engine and brake settings for rough terrain. It also engages Hill Descent Assist on steep downhill slopes, holding the car at a safe speed while it's descending. The Scout also features a ‘rough road package’ as standard that includes

a tough engine guard and underbody stone guard.

Scout models have been part of ŠKODA’s range since the first Octavia Scout joined the range in 2007. Characterised by their rugged design and enhanced offroad ability, Scout models have won numerous industry accolades and enjoy a loyal following with buyers. The Kodiaq Scout will join the current Octavia Scout model in the brand’s 2017 line-up.

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October 2017 | Farming Monthly | 63