September 2016 Farming Monthly National

INSIDE: Make sure you’re ready for the future: CIPC page 18

Farming

MONTHLY National

September 2016

Also in this issue...

Red Tractor

| Farming industry gets behind Red Tractor Week page 30

Model ‘electric sheep’...

Also inside this month..

| Helping researchers keep flocks in fine fettle page 10

Don’t neglect ATV tyres... p49

ADF: Milking big savings p33

Maintaining tanks & silos p43

PLUS: Pests | Security| Tillage |Arable| Machinery | Buildings | Energy | ATV | Motors

CONTENTS September 2016

FEATURES 10

20

12 Arable

31 Security

Including new research...

16 Potatoes New developments, storage, handling machinery and more..

26

43

36 Buildings

Master Locksmiths Association offers practical advice for darker nights..

32 UK Dairy Day

RIDBA launches new Awards Event for 2017

38 Forestry

Preview of the upcoming event..

WinTree nursery management software

22 Pests Stewardship countdown, fly control..

24 Tillage Tillage Live! information including new machinery on show..

REGULARS 06 News Will you leave a ‘crippling’ tax bill?

28 Fencing Long life fencing solutions for solar farms, Electric fencing and more..

30 Red Tractor

10 On Topic Model ‘electric sheep’ help researchers

40 Energy

Red Tractor Week is almost here...

04 | Farming Monthly | September 2016

Focus on AD & Biogas..

44 Machinery One hundred years of JD and more..

51 ATV ATV news...covered.

55 Motors Latest motors news

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

49

Agriculture. Covered.

EDITOR Andrew Poulton editor@farmingmonthly.com

Model ‘electric sheep’ p10

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ON THE COVER PhD student Pip Jones sets up electric sheep

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

September 2016 | Farming Monthly | 05

| News

Farming families warned of ‘crippling’ tax bills Farmers across the UK risk leaving their children with ‘crippling’ tax bills after they die, one of the county’s leading rural lawyers has warned. elen Gough, an associate at Worcestershire law firm mfg Solicitors, says complex rules for inheriting agricultural land and buildings will see the Inland Revenue take more than it otherwise would need to, unless farmers plan ahead.

Ms Gough, part of mfg’s awardwinning Agricultural and Rural Affairs division, has urged farmers to consider their succession planning and whether their current business arrangements are suitable for the long-term interests of their family as well as being as tax efficient as possible.

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“Without that careful tax and succession planning, there is a very real risk that those inheriting farms and agricultural property will not only be left with a crippling tax bill but they may also have to face a dispute over who is entitled to what.”

“It is no exaggeration to say hundreds of thousands of pounds can be saved if planning is done early enough, and there is no price tag that can be attached to the peace of mind that such planning can bring.” she said.

“Without that careful tax and succession planning, there is a very real risk that those inheriting farms and agricultural property will not only be left with a crippling tax bill but they may also have to face a dispute over who is entitled to what.”

Ms Gough, a regular spokesperson on rural issues, said farmers must work with their children to establish what each member of the family actually wants and what they are working towards, as well as the future of the farming business. She said this ‘creates certainty’ and strengthens the next generation’s commitment, avoiding heartbreak and litigation after parents have died.

She added: “If things go wrong, then as well as the tax bill the farm may have to be split up and sold off, while families are broken apart by dispute and legal costs.

“Effective planning is not hugely

06 | Farming Monthly | September 2016

Helen Gough

expensive and it ensures that everyone knows where they stand.

Some people still think it isn’t a good topic to talk about, much in the same way as a pre-nuptial agreement before a marriage, but it is about fairness, protecting

assets in the long-term and once the plan is in place, everyone can get on with their lives and concentrate on running a successful business.

“You cannot start planning too early.”

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| News

Defra TB strategy announcement - NFU response NFU President Meurig Raymond said: “Bovine TB remains a huge threat to beef and dairy farmers in large parts of the country. More than 28,000 cattle were slaughtered in England last year because of it and nearly 4,000 herds that had previously been clear of the disease were affected by it.” armers facing a daily battle against bTB in those areas that have been granted licences for badger control operations this year will welcome the news that finally action is being taken to tackle the reservoir of disease in wildlife in these areas.

Today’s announcement means that badger control will now be taking place in ten per cent of the area where cattle are at the highest risk of contracting bTB. “There is still a huge amount of work ahead to ensure the eradication of bTB from this country and I would like to take

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this opportunity to thank farmers for their continued support in working towards this goal.

“The Chief Vet has made it clear that dealing with the disease in both cattle and badgers is essential to tackling the disease effectively and that proactive badger control is currently the best available option for dealing with the disease in badgers. The number of areas that have expressed interest in carrying out badger controls in future years not only shows the sheer extent of the bTB problem farmers are facing but also the industry’s continued commitment to playing its part in tackling this devastating disease.

“We have always said that we must use every option available to tackle bTB, including cattle testing, cattle movement controls, improving biosecurity, and encouraging farmers to make informed decisions when buying cattle in from other areas.

“We will consult with our members before submitting our response to the consultation launched today on introducing further cattle measures, including more severe skin tests for herds in the area at greatest risk from bTB and increased surveillance testing for all herds in the areas on the edge of the disease spread.

“The new farm advice packs will

provide farmers with information to help them improve the effectiveness of the biosecurity measures they implement on their farms, and the updated online mapping tool will allow farmers to make better informed decisions when buying in livestock to minimise the risk of bringing bTB onto their farms.

“The NFU has always said that control of bTB in non-bovine animals has to be part of any strategy to tackle the disease so we welcome the consultation launched today on introducing further disease control measures for these species.”

Louise is putting Wales on the map at International Farming Seminar One local Young Farmers member will soon be representing the whole of Wales as she jets off to Norway this October.

lamorgan Young Farmers Club member Louise Evans is travelling to Norway this October to act as an ambassador for Wales at the annual Rural Youth Europe Autumn Seminar.

The event, which lasts a week, offers young farmers from across Europe the opportunity to learn about different cultures and traditions, as well as share their own.

On her trip to Oslo, Norway’s capital, Louise will be supported

by Welsh crisp manufacturers Jones Crisps, who use only Welsh potatoes and ingredients to produce crisps at their Gwynedd base. She has also received the backing of Welsh MEP Dr Kay Swinburne who has supplied her with Welsh dragon soft toy souvenirs and information about Welsh farming for the rest of the international visitors to Norway.

Louise said: "I am thrilled to have received such an array of produce.

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“The crisps from will go down a storm!

“A big thank you to Jones Crisps. I am a proud YFC member and I am going to make sure that Wales is recognised as being the best country at this year’s event".

This year’s seminar has been given the topic ‘Think, Love, Move, Do' and aims to identify social inclusion, raise awareness and challenge people’s mindsets.

The meaty topic will certainly raise some questions, especially with the changes in YFC and keeping it current and relevant for members.

Louise Evans, 24, who is an active member of Maendy Young Farmers believes that “the more you put into YFC, the more you get out".

“I am very lucky to have been selected to attend Norway. I am really looking forward to taking part in the seminar and hopefully see the Norwegian landscape as well as teach others about Wales.”

September 2016 | Farming Monthly | 07

| News

The more information available when selling cattle through livestock markets the more value that can be added

Encouraging UK farmers to enrol on schemes such as BVD free England for example, allows individual animal health information to be openly disclosed before committing to purchase, said Chris Dodds, executive secretary of the Livestock Auctioneers Association.

e believe that the more animal health information we can display in the sale ring at the time of sale the better informed prospective purchasers will be when making that decision to bid, giving them greater confidence and therefore better value,” he added.

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“There is a vital role for markets to play in helping buyers and sellers recognise the value of identification of health status in cattle and reward them by not just getting potentially improved prices but by having a healthier herd at home too” “By announcing at the point of sale in auction markets the disease status of

potentially every animal again demonstrates the strength of selling through livestock markets which highlights the growing importance of participating in such schemes, which is very often rewarded by improved prices.”

“We will continue to promote best practice in the industry which is the cornerstone to scheme participation and help add value to both the vendor and the purchaser by helping them articulate as much information on animals as possible,” he added, reiterating that in doing so it boosts overall confidence in our selling method.

“With a Bovine viral diarrhoea virus (BVDV) animal for example it is the Persistent Infected (PI) animal in the herd that needs identifying, so that purchasers do not bring them back to farms to infect the rest of the herd,” explained Mr Dodds.

“There is already evidence of cattle selling at a premium price if they are confirmed to have

been tested BVD free and there are clear economic implications of removing PI animals off farms across the industry.”

“We need everyone's participation in this eradication scheme for the true benefits to be seen and we need an effective database so that the correct health status information can be electronically displayed within auction market sale rings, for everyone to see.

“We are of course waiting for some of the finer points of the scheme to be concluded, but there is a vital role for markets to play in helping buyers and sellers recognise the value of identification of health status in cattle and reward them by not just getting potentially improved prices but by having a healthier herd at home too, until the database is in place we are relying on manual checking,” he concluded.

Addington Fund launch ‘Tup 1 Ewe’ Campaign Farming charity, The Addington Fund, has launched a new and innovative initiative to help raise vital funds for farmers in need, which will see sheep farmers donate live animals through auction markets around England and Wales. he new scheme, titled Tup 1 Ewe, enables sheep farmers to nominate the sale proceeds of ewes or lambs to the charity when arriving at participating livestock markets around England and Wales, from September 2016.

“Farmers can donate a ewe and lamb or lambs or they can give the progeny of the ewe as a store or finished lamb,” explains Ian Bell, Chief Executive, the Addington Fund. “The proceeds will then be sent to the Addington Fund direct from the auctioneer and the funds raised will support farming families in the region of the market.”

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“The Livestock Auctioneers Association Council is backing this new campaign and we hope to add more markets to our list of participating partners in the coming months” The Addington Fund, which offers a lifeline to farmers in desperate need of housing or emergency funds, has worked closely with the Livestock

Auctioneers Association Council (Strutt & Parker LLP, Shearwell Data and JG Animal Health are also supporting the scheme) to formulate this new scheme and ensure it is convenient and workable on busy sale days.

“We want to make donations easy and practical for the farming community. Livestock farmers have always been incredibly supportive of our charity and this offers a new and unique method of giving money to a worthy and much needed cause,” says Ian. “This predominately results in the Addington Fund working to provide housing for farmers who are forced to leave their homes,” adds Ian. “However, in certain counties, we also offer affordable housing to anyone currently working in, or retired from, an agricultural or a land based industry. A donation of just one animal could make a huge difference to someone’s future.

“The Livestock Auctioneers Association Council is backing this new campaign and we hope to add more markets to our list of participating partners in the coming months. Farmers should look out for details at their local market or ask their auctioneer,” concludes Ian. More information can be found at www.addingtonfund.org.uk

08 | Farming Monthly | September 2016

Ian Bell, Chief Executive, Addington Fund

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| News

Multi-million pound research project to examine the resilience of the UK pig industry More than £2 million has been awarded to scientists at the University of Lincoln, UK, to lead the most comprehensive study of the British pig industry ever conducted. s part of the Global Food Security (GFS) programme, which examines the resilience of the UK food system in a global context, the project will bring together all existing data with new scientific studies to accurately build an overview of the entire industry.

The academics leading the project will then produce a systems model, which will be used to predict how major economic and environmental changes will affect the industry, from farmer to retailer, and provide the kind of informed advice which has not previously been available to key decision makers.

PIGSustain: predicting the impacts of intensification and future changes on UK pig industry resilience is part of by the Global Food Security programme; with funding from the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC), Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) and Scottish Government. The University of Lincoln’s pioneering PIGSustain project was announced as one of five studies to receive a share of £9 million in the first round of GFS funding.

Led by Principal Investigator Dr Lisa Collins, Reader in the School of Life Sciences at the University of Lincoln, the project represents a major collaboration between academia and industry. Project partners include the University of Reading, University of Leeds and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, as well as the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board, Red Tractor, large-scale producers, pig veterinarians and government executive agencies for animal health.

Dr Collins, a specialist in animal health and welfare epidemiology, explained: “The world human population is expected to rise to 9.6 billion by the middle of this century, with global meat consumption predicted to double within the same time frame. In order to be able to feed this growing population, intensification of our agricultural systems will be necessary, but the sustainability of the industry as it currently stands is threatened by numerous external factors, such as competition for depleting natural

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resources, climate change, disease and environmental concerns.

“At present, we don’t have a continuous, objective and quantified understanding of the health and welfare of our national pig herd, we can’t predict how it will be impacted by future changes to the industry, and we are unable to tell how resilient the UK pig industry is as a whole – through PIGSustain we will address all of these uncertainties. This is a truly cross-disciplinary project, which pushes the boundaries of current scientific and social scientific knowledge in many directions.”

PIGSustain will gather data in order to understand how sustainable intensification and predicted climate changes are expected to impact on the entire pig industry – from the health, disease and welfare of the animals, to consumption patterns and retail prices, which ultimately impact farmers. Gathering information on emerging diseases with the UK pig population is particularly important for the team because, unlike any other animal, it is possible for pigs to translate animal diseases into human forms.

As part of the project’s work to track the health and welfare of pigs on farms year-round, Professor Nigel Allinson MBE from the University of Lincoln’s School of Computer Science will devise a new monitoring system which can be installed within pig pens. The work by Professor Allinson, Distinguished Professor of Image Engineering, will provide detailed, real-time measures of health and welfare on-farm which are currently lacking.

Representatives of the pig industry have highlighted the urgent need for a system which efficiently and accurately collects this information on a continuous basis to supplement occasional vet consults.

PIGSustain will develop a cutting-edge, automated computer vision system capable of collecting details of pigs’ wellbeing, which will provide the team with a clear understanding of how on-farm health and welfare measures match up against those observed at abattoirs. This system will be developed with a view to making it commercially available so that farmers and vets can continuously monitor their pigs.

The four-year PIGSustain project will also collect data from a

wide range of sources in order to assess how health and welfare are linked with climate, geography and other factors. For example, the team will collect retail data to understand the socio- and geographical demographics underlying consumer behaviour.

Using the extensive information gathered, the researchers will then develop a model to explain how

each industry component is related to, and has the potential to influence, another. Possible future scenarios and predicted trends will then be inputted to identify just how resilient the UK pig industry is, and what factors are critical for its future stability.

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September 2016 | Farming Monthly | 09

| On Topic

Model ‘Electric’ Sheep.. ..helping researchers keep flocks in fine fettle

10 | Farming Monthly | September 2016

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| On Topic

Have you ever thought how a sheep feels when it’s freezing cold or baking hot? And whether an animal’s reaction to the weather affects farm productivity? wo ewes in the fields of North Wales are helping find the answers. From a distance they look much like other sheep; but their thick fleeces, ear tags and woolly tails hide a hi-tech secret.

They are ‘electric’ sheep, life like models, with a special battery operated heating system which simulates the heat produced by a live animal. Researchers are using them to measure the effectiveness of trees and shelter belts to protect flocks from adverse weather.

PhD student Pip Jones takes the model ewes’ temperatures as she moves them around the fields at Bangor University’s research farm; comparing what happens in places where trees, hedgerows or shelter belts offer protection, against locations where there’s no shelter.

Wind flow and microclimate around hedgerows are being measured by Pip’s colleague Yufeng He. Pip Jones said: “We’re looking at how weather is experienced on a ‘sheep scale’ and although it’s early days I’ve been really surprised by some

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measurements. Sheep use a substantial amount of energy just staying warm; and lose a lot of heat when it’s cool, especially when there’s a wind chill.

“On a hot day when the weather was around 30C at the study site, we put a model sheep in direct sun, and the fleece recorded a temperature of 60C, which is incredibly hot. This is where the shelter of trees could really contribute, creating shade in the summer and reducing the effects of wind-chill in winter.”

Dr. Andy Smith, Senior Lecturer in Forestry at Bangor University’s School of Environment, Natural Resources & Geography said: “If it’s very cold a sheep burns more energy to keep warm for survival and it needs more food.

Conversely if it’s too hot, animals tend to eat less and seek shade to keep cool. Both situations affect weight gain and productivity because energy that could go into growth is used to regulate metabolism instead.”

Heating elements and thermostats inside the models mimic heat produced by a live sheep’s metabolism. By measuring the difference between internal and external temperature,

researchers can work out how much energy the sheep loses just trying to deal with the weather.

So far the team has worked out that over the three months of winter, if it averaged a chilly 6C outside, 100 sheep would need to graze one eighth of a hectare of early spring grass just to produce the energy they needed to keep warm, energy that is therefore not available for growth.

Pip Jones added: "Tree-shelter from chilling wind could save energy and provide a real efficiency boost in the conversion of energy eaten to actual growth and health in our young livestock."

Exposure to cold winds can exacerbate flock welfare issues.

Outdoor lambing and early turnout of young lambs into fields increases the importance of shelter. Shelterbelts have potential benefits for reducing the risk of hypothermia in new born lambs, and mastitis in ewes. Planting trees and hedgerows can improve drainage, and provides an opportunity to fence off trees to divert sheep away from wet areas where fluke thrives.

The eventual aim of the research is to produce a practical

tool kit for farmers to show them the best places to plant for effective shelter and shade.

The model sheep were showcased at NSA 2016, the National Sheep Association’s show at Malvern.

The study is part of Multi-Land a research partnership finding ways to increase farm profitability and efficiency through sustainable agriculture, whilst improving resilience of the farmland landscape.

Pip's research, into the potential for tree shelter systems to save the energy and lives of livestock in adverse weather, is funded through the KESS scholarship in partnership with the Woodland Trust.

Helen Chesshire, the Woodland Trust’s senior farming advisor said: “Our advisors have years of experience, we can provide subsidised trees, on-farm assessments and bespoke planting schemes.”

To find out more about how we can help you to plant trees on your farm call 0330 333 5303 or email plant@woodlandtrust.org.uk All images: WTML/Laurence Clark

September 2016 | Farming Monthly | 11

| Arable

Desiccation, harvest, drying and storage of combining peas and field beans With winter bean harvest now very much in full swing, and with spring bean harvesting in the south only days away, it is timely to focus on the process of harvesting and postharvest drying and storage. ield bean desiccation As well as increasing production costs, there may also be loss of crop from the passage of the sprayer when desiccating.

Desiccation will not advance seed maturity and has a slow effect on green stems. However, if the crop is infested with green weedy material, or has a few late set pods which are still green, application of a desiccant will aid combining. It is important to apply the desiccant at the correct stage of maturity.

Application before this stage may result in reduced yield or loss of seed quality.

The most widely used material is diquat. A non-ionic surfactant can be added. Apply when 90% of the pods are dry and black and most of the seed is dry. At this stage most of the leaves have senesced and fallen but the stems are still green. The contact action is fast and harvesting can be carried out 4-7 days later. It can be used on crops for animal feed, human consumption or seed.

Glyphosate is not a true desiccant but can be used as a pre-harvest treatment to control perennial weeds. It must not be used on crops destined for seed.

Field bean harvest It is tempting to see beans as ‘tough in the field’ and that they will stand long after other crops such as cereals have been harvested. Other operations, including seed bed preparations and oilseed rape sowing, can often take priority over bean harvest. While the perception that beans can wait is true to a certain extent, once beans are ready to harvest, the quality will begin to deteriorate. Losses occur as pods open and start to shed seeds, and seed coat colour deteriorates with exposure to the air and light as pods split. Repeated wetting and drying due to rain increase the chances of staining as can combining when the stems are too green.

All of these factors reduce the chances of achieving good visual quality & the premium for human consumption. Equally to leave beans to over-dry in the field can lead to splitting and shattering of the grains in the combine, creating further losses of yield and quality.

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Drying combining peas and field beans The quality standard for peas and beans is usually 14% moisture content (MC) with 2% impurities, or a combination of the two that should not exceed 16%.

Drying can be more difficult with peas and beans than with cereals due to seed size, and while damaged produce is acceptable for compounding, mouldy produce is not. Peas and beans should not be over-dried and at higher temperatures texture may be affected and peas may split.

The large size of bean seeds makes drying difficult as they have a low resistance to air flow. It takes time to move moisture from the inside to the outside hence slow, gentle drying with ambient air is best.

1. Floor-ventilated bins are easy and relatively safe to operate.

When the initial moisture content is high, the transfer of the produce from bin to bin and the use of warmed air together with adequate ventilation may be necessary to avoid mould developing in the upper layers.

2. Radially-ventilated bins allow faster drying than floor-ventilated bins, but care must be taken not to overheat peas and beans.

3. On-floor drying using ambient or warmed air can be used, and provided there is sufficient volume of air and adequate ventilation, peas of relatively high moisture content can be dried using this method. Care must be taken not to load beans too deep if moisture content is high and if lateral ducts are spaced wider than 1 m.

4. Continuous flow driers designed to work on a short period/high temperature basis need more careful operation than other systems for peas. Use of continuous flow driers should be avoided for beans where quality is important, since they may cause cracking.

Storage of combining peas and field beans For safe storage, the maximum moisture content of peas depends upon the method and the length of time they are to be stored. Peas may be safely stored for up to 4 weeks at 17% MC, but if they are to be stored until the following spring, the moisture content should not be above 15%. If the peas are in bulk with forced

12 | Farming Monthly | September 2016

ventilation or frequently moved, the moisture content can be 1% higher.

Storage in dark areas is recommended for beans destined for the human consumption market to delay the development

of tannins which cause beans to discolour. Beans must be dried down to 14% MC for long-term storage in bulk - this is important since beans are often stored for some time before they are sold.

Maximimum recommended drying temperatures - Peas

Product

%MC

Max drying temp

Seed

>24%

37°C

Seed

<24%

43°C

>24%

43°C

<24%

49°C

Human Consumption Human Consumption

Maximimum recommended drying temperatures - Beans

Product

%MC

Max drying temp

Seed

>24%

34 - 38°C

Seed

<24%

38 - 43°C

Human Consumption

43 - 49°C www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Arable

Plant molecule crucial to improving stress tolerance in cereal crops

Jason Able

Tiny molecules found in plants are being targeted to breed cereals with the potential to deliver high crop yields under stressful growing conditions such as drought and heat. esearchers from the University of Adelaide found small generegulating RNA molecules already present in plants could be used to understand why certain strains of cereals fared better in adverse

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conditions.

Associate Professor Jason Able said by exploiting these RNA pathways, breeders around the globe would be able to more precisely engineer crops and develop varieties better equipped to handle adverse conditions.

“What we’re identifying is that

particular small RNA molecule controls or could control simple, important targets through the life cycle of a plant,” he said.

“Through understanding the functional role of these molecules we may wish to regulate, we may overcome particular environmental challenges.

“We can now take that information forward and use those selection lines in making new potential varieties.”

Potential areas for development include the reproductive timing in plants, or alteration of root structures, in order to make crops less susceptible to environmental stress.

“You could manipulate or understand what molecules control flowering time traits and then bring forward the maturity of that plant for example, so that it avoids heat stress,” Associate Professor Able said.

Associate Professor Able is Head of Agricultural Science within the University of Adelaide’s School of Agriculture, Food and Wine and is senior author of the paper on SMARTER cereal breeding: Small RNA-Mediated Adaptation of Reproductive Targets in Epigenetic Regulation, which is published in the journal Trends in Plant Science this week.

He said using the same research, grain yields and quality could also be improved by altering the developmental stages of cereal crops.

While current study has looked at plant development suited to Australian growing conditions, Professor Able said the same research would also be useful in other climates.

“It could be applied worldwide, and there’ll be people around the

world who will be working towards what we’re working towards.”

“Continual improvement through plant breeding underpins food security globally.

“With the world’s population set to reach more than nine billion by 2050, we need to intensify our efforts in breeding new cereals and other food plants with improvements in yield, quality and disease resistance.”

According to the United Nations Food and Agricultural Association, cereal crops make up more than 50 per cent of all food based energy, with more than 1091 million tonnes produced for food usage over the past year.

Drought stress impacts wheat yield in particular, with approximately 32 per cent of all wheat crops in developing countries experiencing drought stress during the growing season.

Because the RNA molecules identified by research are already present in all organisms, the findings can be applied without the need for genetic modification.

“These molecules are already out in the field as we speak, it’s just that we haven’t really been able to put a handle on them previously,” Associate Professor Able said.

“So it’s just a matter of the breeders getting hold of that information and starting to make those strategic breeding crops to develop that variety.”

South Australia’s capital Adelaide has three long-standing public universities, Flinders University, University of South Australia, and the University of Adelaide, each of which are consistently rated highly in the international higher education rankings.

September 2016 | Farming Monthly | 13

| Arable

UBC research aims to help Canadian flax farmers A UBC professor’s flax research could one day help Canadian farmers grow a car fender. n a recent study, UBC researcher Michael Deyholos identified the genes responsible for the bane of many Canadian flax farmers’ existence; the fibres in the plant's stem.

“These findings have allowed us to zero in the genetic profile of the toughest part of this plant and may one day help us engineer some of that toughness out,” says Deyholos, a biology professor at

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UBC's Okanagan campus. “With further research, we might one day be able to help farmers make money off a waste material that wreaks havoc on farm equipment and costs hundreds of hours and thousands of dollars to deal with.”

As part of his research, Deyholos and his former graduate student at the University of Alberta dissected thousands of the plant’s stem under a microscope in order to identify which genes in the plant's make up were responsible for the growth of the stem, and

which weren’t.

Due to the length of the Canadian prairie’s growing season, where flax is grown, farmers typically burn the stems, known as flax straw, as opposed to harvesting the material. In many European countries, flax straw is used as an additive in paper, plastics and other advanced materials such as those used in the production of automobiles.

Currently, Canadian flax is used only for the value of its seeds, which can be eaten or broken

AHDB Horticulture provides vital Diamondback moth control A new 120 day EAMU (Extension of Authorisation for Minor Use) has been authorised for 'Benevia 10OD’ for use as an insecticide on Brussels sprout, broccoli, calabrese, cabbage and cauliflower for the control of Diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella). he Chemicals Regulation Division played an important role to ensure that authorisation was identified as a priority and rapidly evaluated for UK Brassica Growers.

Diamondback moth is a pest of Brassica crops including oilseed

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rape. It is a relatively small moth so the eggs can be hard to find.

Newly-hatched caterpillars burrow into the foliage to feed but then come out onto the leaf surface as they grow larger and cause characteristic ‘windowpane’ damage.

The AHDB-funded Pest Bulletin has been monitoring Diamondback moth, identifying

14 | Farming Monthly | September 2016

high numbers during June and July. The Pest Bulletin is updated each week and provides valuable oversight on 13 different pests and the information has allowed the growers to plan control measures ahead to mitigate yield losses.

Commenting on the Pest Bulletin, and associated Pest Blog, Dr Rosemary Collier, Director of Warwick Crop Centre said, “This is

down into flaxseed oil. Flaxseed oil is used in the manufacturing of paints, linoleum, and as a key element in the manufacturing of packaging materials and plastics.

According to the Flax Council of Canada, Canada is one of the largest flax producers in the world with the nation’s prairie provinces cultivating 816,000 tonnes of the plant in 2014/15 on 1.6 million acres of land.

Deyholos’ research was recently published in the journal Frontiers of Plant Science. an important service for growers and we have been providing key intelligence on the major pests of vegetable crops by forecasting and monitoring fluctuations in pest numbers. This information provides guidance for growers as to when specific control measures need to be put in place.”

Vivian Powell, Crop Protection Senior Scientist (Pesticide Regulation), helped organise the EAMU working with members of the Brassica Growers Association said, “It is great that we worked with growers, regulators and the manufacturer to obtain use of this new product that will help them alleviate issues with Diamondback moth. Our work is all about finding the solutions to problems that work effectively and efficiently and which can be integrated into IPM strategies.”

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| Arable

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

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

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

September 2016 | Farming Monthly | 15

| Potatoes

Potatoes

and storage..

16 | Farming Monthly | September 2016

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| Potatoes

HK Timbers: Better value than ever.... and new products With over 40 years supplying potato boxes and now also supplying other packaging products, HK Timber products is the recognised nationally as leaders in quality, service and value in the industry. The efficient factory allows HK Timbers to produce boxes very quickly and they have the unique ability to store up to 25,000 boxes on site at any one time, allowing orders to be delivered when required.

K Timbers Manging Director, Richard Bundock, said ‘Since joining the business towards the end of last year we have made some major changes in our pricing policy.

Firstly it became obvious to me that HK Timbers wasn’t talking enough to its customers and as such our prices weren’t offering the right value for money that they should. While using the same high quality Swedish timber (actually from the North of Sweden – Not Russian Not German..) and manufacturing skills I have changed our cost model so that many customers are paying much less for their boxes than they did in 2015. This change has obviously been appreciated and we have seen the return of many old customers to us.

As well as improving our value we are also launching new products. We have just opened a new production facility near Peterborough to manufacture Produce Trays. Its early days but already the volumes look like we will have to invest in more machinery as this side of the business looks to grow quickly and strongly.

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2016 has been a very exciting year so far, 2017 will take this even further…’.

HK Timber boxes are predominantly made from imported timber which is proven to last much longer than home grown timber. Many of their customers still have boxes in use which are more than 15 years old (some as old as 30 years…) proving their products are a sound investment.

Manufacturing Potato Boxes is, as one would expect, a very seasonal business, the busiest part of the year being April /May through to early November. There are therefore significant financial advantages for both customer and supplier should purchases be made out of season between November and March. This year we have seen early buyers saving on average £4/box against later purchases.

Services offered by HK Timbers include: • Unique farm specific potato or vegetable boxes • Produce Trays • Corrugated cartons • Log boxes

September 2016 | Farming Monthly | 17

| Potatoes

Make sure you are ready for the future with CIPC CIPC labels and Stewardship guidance updated for 2016/17. hanges for the forthcoming year to product labels for chlorpropham (CIPC) have recently come into force and, on 1 August, the Potato Industry CIPC Stewardship Group released its updated guidance for the forthcoming season.

CIPC is an essential for the control sprouting and is applied to almost 2 million tonnes of potatoes stored each year across the industry in Great Britain.

In line with the ‘Step Down’ process working towards a new pan-European rate for 2017, there are new, lower application rates for CIPC use in the coming season which have now been approved. These were requested by the companies that hold the approvals for formulations as part of the CIPC Stewardship process and will help to ensure compliance with the Maximum Residue Level (MRL) of 10 mg/kg.

For the 2016-17 season, the new statutory limits for total dose, approved by Chemicals Regulation Directorate (CRD) are 42 grams/tonne for processing (including fish & chip shop supplies and peeling) and 24 g/t for the fresh market. The latest time of application is 14 days before removal from store for sale or processing and is also a statutory requirement.

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There are new, lower application rates for CIPC use in the coming season which have now been approved Additionally, Stewardship best practice, endorsed by the NAAC’s CIPC Applicator Group and Red Tractor Farm Assurance, continues to allow just one application of up to 16 g/t in cold stores as CIPC residue declines more slowly at cold temperature. This applies to all stores to be held below 5°C. This application should be made early in storage during pull-down, before the temperature is decreased below 7°C, for maximum efficacy.

Be 2017 Ready The Stewardship Group is also urging users to ‘Be 2017 Ready’ by taking on board the changes necessary to introduce Active Recirculation as part of the application process.

This requires that the fog must be actively and evenly recirculated through the potatoes using the main or supplementary fans and will be manadatory in all stores from July 2017 onwards.

It is recommended that users consult their NAAC CIPC Applicator to discuss this requirement now to ensure that, if steps have not yet been taken, applications can still be made next season.

Here is the definition for Active Recirculation and associated guidance released by PICSG: Active Recirculation – for application of Chlorpropham (CIPC) to stored potatoes The active, even movement and recirculation of airflow, through stored potatoes, during and after Chlorpropham application (until the fog has cleared) accomplished via any suitable mechanical means in order to improve application uniformity and maximize product efficacy.

Practical guidance for bulk potato stores Provision for ‘Active Recirculation’ may consist of a mechanical ventilation system with under-floor ducts, under-pile ducts, or other means of even, through-pile airflow and recirculation.

Typically, reducing airflow velocity is recommended and can be accomplished via the use of Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs or Inverters), or other suitable means.

Practical guidance for box potato stores Provision for ‘Active Recirculation’ may consist of a mechanical ventilation system capable of even airflow recirculation. This may consist of a permanent / purpose-built ventilation system or a temporary ventilation system utilizing auxiliary fans, plenums, or other means to allow for uniform airflow and recirculation; unmodified overhead throw systems are not acceptable.

Finally, it is important to stress that, where

there is mixed cropping, crops such as wheat and onions should not be held in stores which have been treated with CIPC. This is because CIPC can remain within the store structure and residue can then be found in the produce which would considered as non-target crops; these have an MRL set at the limit of detection (0.01 mg/kg).

More information is available, for example, in the Store Assessment of the Red Tractor Combinable Crops protocol at http://assurance.redtractor.org.uk/contentfiles/F armers-5611.pdf For further information, see the ‘Be CIPC Compliant’ website at www.cipccompliant.co.uk

Summary of Stewardship best practice for CIPC use in 2016/17:

Storage Type

Maximum Total CIPC Dose (grams/tonne)

Application Timing

Withdrawal Period (days)

Fresh Market

24

First dose within 3 weeks of store loading

14

except Cold Store (5c or below)

16

Within 3 weeks of store loading, before temperature is reduced below 7C

14

Processing

42

First dose within 3 weeks of store loading

14

18 | Farming Monthly | September 2016

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| Potatoes

No cooling off - growth despite obstacles for JD Cooling Systems

JD Cooling Systems has had another busy year of growth in all sectors of their extremely diverse business, says Group MD John Dye.

here is no doubt that when it comes to big investments, Brexit has had a negative effect in terms of people’s confidence at the moment. However this is something we think that will be temporary whereas the constant price pressure being passed down through the major retail chain remains the biggest obstacle to getting people to invest in the long term.”

“Despite this we have been successful in winning major orders this year right across the farming spectrum. We are in the middle of building a new high care vegetable production facility in Scotland and Scotland is also the scene of one of our larger storage projects this

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season where we are just completing a major complex for East Lothian Produce.”

“ELP are another client who have seen the benefits of using secondary glycol cooling systems to deliver a long term, efficient and sustainable solution to their cooling requirements. 4 large stores provide facility to hold crops such as potatoes, cabbage, broccoli and other similar produce for long periods and this flexibility is another key benefit of using secondary cooling.”

In addition to these works in Scotland which are being managed from JD Cooling’s office near Edinburgh, the Group’s activities in the farming sector include new onion storage in Suffolk, potato storage in Norfolk, fruit storage

Kent with projects as far south as Cornwall where they have recently completed a new facility for one of the region’s major brassica producers, again using secondary glycol cooling systems.

Says Dye, “Whilst the other business activities within the Group are growing at a more rapid pace, farming and its connected businesses across the food sector remain a massive part of our overall turnover and historically our clients in this sector are extremely resilient and innovative and I am sure will deal with whatever Brexit, major retailers or mother nature throws at them!”

September 2016 | Farming Monthly | 19

| Potatoes

Passionate about machinery automation: Agrimech At Agrimech Services, we pride ourselves on offering a complete service to our customers nationwide. e specialise in servicing and repairing all makes and models of grading and end of line equipment for the Agricultural, Recycling and Industrial operations.

Working from our fully equipped service vehicles, our engineers are qualified in mechanical and electrical engineering, with experience working in field service.

We offer a schedule maintenance service for those customers who have specific periods to undertake their planned maintenance procedures. For those unexpected breakdowns and repairs, our Field Service Team are here to help.

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Agrimech also continues to add to its range of Bagging and Weighing Machinery We stock a range of spares and for those items that we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stock, our team will source

them as quickly as possible to get you up and running again.

As well as offering service and support for Manter Weighing and Bijlsma Hercules Grading and Handling machinery the company has now expanded into Tray Packing with Qumec Machinery and Robot Palletising with Comau Robotics.

Our company specialises in post-harvest crop handling, weighing and packing, offering automated solutions that result in labour saving and operational efficiencies. With remote engineering options and monitoring solutions which allow the management of your business from your mobile or laptop.

Agrimech also continues to add to its range of Bagging and Weighing Machinery.

If you are looking to fully automate your Bagging Line, the new Nemesis Bag Placer, working in conjunction with the Retribution ABC heavy duty bag stitching system, offers the ultimate in bagging solutions. The sacks are loaded onto the machine and are automatically placed onto the bagging head. Once filled they

20 | Farming Monthly | September 2016

are supported through the stitching process by the ABC bag control system. This fully automated system requires minimal operator assistance.

The companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s range of Weighing equipment is now complimented by a small Electronic Weigher. Destinyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Weighing system has a capacity of up to 7 tonnes per hour and is suitable for onions, potatoes and carrots.

Supplied with an Agrimech Gripper head to suit your packing requirements.

All Agrimech machinery is constructed in stainless steel and standardised component parts across the range. A 24-month part and labour warranty with each machine and annual service options gives trouble free maintenance and operations.

The range is completely designed and built by our Engineering Team including electrical control panels and programming.

With a list of options to suit all packaging requirements the Agrimech range of machinery is suitable for a variety of products.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Potatoes

Irrimec Elite range of Irrigators The Elite range of machines are designed with the professional grower in mind who demand reliable and easy-to-operate irrigation systems that require simple maintenance. Greencrop are delighted to announce that the first machines in the UK have performed very well during the 2016 season. he new Elite range of machines, currently consist of the Elite 730 and 735 offering a range of hose diameters, from 100mm to 140mm, and hose length options, up to 580m long. The intention is to offer longer hose lengths with the introduction of the new Elite 800 series for 2017.

The attention to detail starts with each machine being steel shot blasted, then painted in epoxy anti-corrosive primer, with a final coat of oven baked polyurethane paint for a superb long lasting finish. Trolleys are hot galvanized.

The drive system continues with the proven Irrimec design. The drum is driven from one side by a cut gear ring positioned on the outer diameter of the drum. Unlike a chain drive, the hose drum is driven by a low-torque gear drive, which is positive and low wearing.

Drum bearings are now fitted with

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an auto lube cartridge ensuring problem free reliability. The turbine drive retains Irrimec’s patented partial flow “Turbimec” system, interchangeable for flows of 10130mc/hr at low inlet pressure.

For more durability during long demanding irrigation periods, the chassis’ are constructed of large steel frames using a 5mm thick box section. The hydraulic legs are 50% larger with built-in internal rams for improved weather resistance and are designed to exert a central push against the drum for added stability. All of the guards are now manufactured in steel for increased durability and to enhance the appearance of the machine. The gun lift frame is also 50% larger, pivoting higher on the machine for additional strength and reliable operation.

The Elite is supplied with a full hydraulic system for operation of the jack, turntable and legs with the control levers now mounted on its own adjustable stand at the

front of the machine. This can be adjusted to the right or left hand side of the drum, therefore when turning the drum into the work position you are always in the line of sight to position the trolley in the correct row, making the machine set up easier.

The reinforced turntable gear and hose guide has not one but four metal bearing rollers guiding the hose onto the drum, aiding drum rewinding and improving hose durability. Gun trolleys are self-pivoting, have been made 50% stronger, are fitted with wheel weights and have a double support wheel for the hose.

Machines are supplied as

standard with the new ‘Dosicontrol’, a simple-to-use computer control system that follows a logical formula for setting rates and delaying start/stop times. These can also be controlled remotely by GSM system ‘Dosicontrol Pro’ for improved operator and management convenience.

The machines are available with either a single or tandem axle chassis, with a large range of tyres.

For further information please contact your nearest dealer or contact Howard Chantry on 01328 701992 or email howard@greencrop.co.uk

September 2016 | Farming Monthly | 21

| Pests

Farmers face race against time in stewardship countdown Farmers are being warned to get their house in order ahead of the introduction of new restrictions on the use of rodenticides in less than a month’s time. he supply of professional products to control rats and mice will become subject to stricter control from October 1 as the stewardship regime implemented by the Campaign for Responsible Rodenticide Use (CRRU) reaches its final stages.

Farmers buying ‘professional use only’ anticoagulant products after that date will need to show a certificate of competence or prove membership of a farm assurance scheme.

And pest control experts are urging those yet to secure what is effectively a ‘licence to kill’ to act quickly.

Simon Forrester, chief executive of the British Pest Control Association (BPCA), said: “Effective rodent control is crucial for all farmers, but the way it’s carried out and governed is changing.

“The CRRU is determined to ensure rodenticides are used responsibly, and with minimum effect on wildlife, and the new legislation will help deliver that goal.

“Everyone who wants to buy professional packs of products for outdoor use will have to prove their competence and ensure any existing certification is up to date.

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made aware of what’s happening and to do something about it within the timeframe.”

Authorised products have carried new ‘stewardship conditions’ labelling since April, but ‘old label’ products (remaining stocks) will also become subject to the restrictions from October 1.

Mr Forrester added: “The

pest control company to take over their pest management operation.”

Importantly, farmers yet to gain the qualification still have time to do so ahead of the deadline.

The CRRU website provides a list of the relevant training courses available and among them is an online option delivered by the BPCA.

phased withdrawal of nonstewardship label rodenticides created an interim period where farmers were still allowed to buy them.

“That period is about to come to an end and those who aren’t qualified will have to do something about it if they want to carry on using the products.

“They can go through training to obtain a certificate, join an approved farm assurance scheme or simply employ a professional

The ‘Using Rodenticides Safely’ course delivers an understanding of why control is needed, the biology and behaviour of commensal rodents, surveys, treatment, law and health and safety.

And farmers can study it in the comfort of their own home before taking the online exam.

There’s also a one-day classroom-based course and exam to be held at Yarnfield Training Centre in Stafford on September 13 (8.30am-5pm).

For more details about the BPCA training courses, visit www.bpca.org.uk/training Farmers unwilling to obtain a certificate of competence can choose instead to join one of several farm assurance schemes approved by CRRU or outsource pest control to a professional company.

Simon Forrester

The ‘Using Rodenticides Safely’ course delivers an understanding of why control is needed, the biology and behaviour of commensal rodents, surveys, treatment, law and health and safety.

“Many farmers are likely to be already aware of changes, but those who aren’t in a farming union or aren’t members of an assurance scheme may be caught out.

“So it’s important for them to be

22 | Farming Monthly | September 2016

Mr Forrester said: “Expert businesses will have vast experience of pest management on farms and will be well versed in the use of chemicals and health and safety issues.

“The BPCA operates strict criteria which ensures every member is fully qualified and upto-date with all of the latest techniques and legislation.

“By using a company affiliated to us, farmers would be free to make more effective use of their time in the knowledge that pest management would be carried out safely, effectively and in compliance with the new laws.”

Farmers can find out more about the stewardship regime and what it means to them by visiting the BPCA stand at CropTec – the annual exhibition in Peterborough at the end of November.

www.farmingmonthly.co.uk

| Pests

Don’t wait to bait!

Use a specialist rodent control service to meet regulatory requirements.

Fly control – A threat on your farm

By Kayleigh Newby.

nevitably many farmers have buildings that are at constant risk of re-infestation by rodents from fields, ditches & hedgerows etc. so there is a real need for outside baits much of the year,” says Charles Goldingham But 'outside baiting' is blamed for poisoning of non-target mammals, field mice & voles etc. which are then eaten by birds of prey, 50% of the barn owls collected up by DEFRA have been found to be poisoned by rodenticides (which is no longer acceptable).

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“So Farmers have a very real problem with these new regulations,” say’s Charles.

“Over the past 12 months, Goldingham Contracts have formulated new Pest Control Contracts to minimise rodenticide poisoning (and meet the new regulations) while also trying to minimise the additional cost,” declared Charles Goldingham.

Goldingham Contracts specialise in rodent control on farms in Gloucestershire, Hereford, Gwent & into surrounding counties where it fits into PC routines.

For more information telephone 01452 741112 or visit www.goldingham-contracts.co.uk

hy are flies a problem?

Flies are not only a nuisance flying around your home and livestock– they spread disease.

To make matters worse - flies breed quickly. The female fly lays 100-150 eggs in clusters and normally lays two clusters in a lifetime – though in favourable conditions she may lay as many as 20 batches! The eggs hatch within hours and the grey/white larva begin to feed voraciously on the available organic matter. They are highly mobile and grow rapidly and within 4-7 days they migrate to cooler, dryer surroundings, such as loose soil, or under stones, where they pupate. Breeding places may include fresh manure and animal excreta making your farm a prime target!

The Solution There are two main solutions for fly control – physical and chemical. Chemical methods should be used in two stages.

Larvacide – to prevent the larvae (maggots) turning into flies and thus breaking the fly life cycle. This is the most important stage at which to combat the infestation as 85% of a fly problem lies in the larvae. Adulticide – kills the fly at

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its adult stage. Again, this is important so that the flies can be tackled before diseases are spread. Pesttrappa recommend using Starburex S2 larvacide in conjunction with LD100 A adulticide for a fast and effective knockdown.

For physical methods of fly control the Redtop fly trap is the original and the best. For many years this ingenious fly trap has been successful in offering a unique and effective way to trap up to 20,000 flies at one time.

Simply pour in the bait, add 1 litre of water, hang the trap outside about 10m from the area you want to protect and watch the flies become attracted to the trap. The Redtop attracts flies from indoors as well as outdoors so will work not only inside but also outside your livestock housing. It is extremely economical as it doesn’t require any electricity, in fact it costs just 1p per 100 flies. It is environmentally friendly as it is fully disposable and food safe. The Redtop also doesn’t attract bees or other insects, only the flies.

Female flies in particular are attracted to the bait helping to break the reproductive cycle.

More information at www.redtop-flytraps.com

September 2016 | Farming Monthly | 23

| Tillage

Tillage-Live, the 50th Event in 2016 The 50th Tillage-Live continues to be the national event that offers operators hands-on experience of the latest equipment local to them. This year the popular event takes place on Wednesday 14th September at Monks Kirby, Rugby, Warwickshire. n 1992 there were four TillageLive events, the first took place at Winchester followed by Epping, Newark and Kelso.

Exhibitors included names such as Ferrag Ltd, Colchester Tillage, Dowdeswell, Rekord Sales, Baker Disc Plough and Howard GB, all of whom have transformed into the well-known brands of Kverneland, Lemken etc,” says Duncan Russell, AEA Services Manager.

Organised by the Agricultural Engineers Association (AEA) on behalf of the industry, Tillage-Live will follow the format of a full working demonstration with a supporting trade exhibition and Knowledge Trail.

“We have focussed the knowledge stations this year to provide additional help and advice on looking after soils and how to make the most of autumn herbicide applications and cover crops”, said Duncan Russell, AEA Services Manager, “Once again, the event is a unique opportunity to not only see all the latest cultivations and crop establishment equipment at work, but also the chance to discuss new ideas and get advice from industry-leading experts.”

Tillage-Live runs from 8am to 3pm and.

NRoSO & BASIS points are available.

There will also be the chance for operators to get a hands-on drive of the latest sprayers in a special area as well as gaining hands-off experience of using guidance and auto-steer

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KEY FACTS Tillage-Live is the national cultivations event including field scale demonstrations of soil cultivation, crop establishment and crop spraying equipment.

Where: Monks Kirby, Rugby, Warwickshire CV23 0PJ When: Wednesday 14th September 2016 Time: 8am – 3pm Tickets: £10 per car on the gate or £7.50 by pre registration at the event website www.tillage-live.uk.com

equipped tractors and machines.

Many leading companies and dealers have taken trade stands where a wide range of equipment will be on display and the working demonstrations on large realistically-sized plots, remain at the heart of the event with manufacturers working the latest equipment suitable for the region’s crops, conditions and

24 | Farming Monthly | September 2016

techniques.

Full details of the event can be found at www.tillage-live.uk.com including details of preregistering where the cost of entry is £7.50 per car. If you are organising a mini bus or coach, then please contact the organisers on 0845 4900 to arrange entry to the venue.

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| Energy

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September 2016 | Farming Monthly | 25

| Tillage

More models of the award-winning Opus The launch of Opus 600 and 700 was well received by our customers and the cultivator type is now being complemented with two additional models – Opus 400 and the Opus 500. äderstad is continuing development of its new Opus cultivators. Opus has won several awards during the year and it has been well received by farmers.

Two new models are now being launched – Opus 400 and Opus 500 – built on the same strong frame as the larger models. The concept of an easily manoeuvred, trailed cultivator is also incorporated in the two smaller Opus models.

Works down to depth of 40 cm

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“With tine spacing of 27 cm and clearance of 80 cm, Opus can handle large quantities of straw and harvesting residue” says Magnus Samuelsson, Concept Manager at Väderstad. “We also have a wide assortment of points and shins, including points coated with hardened metal. A MixIn shin is standard Opus equipment. The MixIn shin produces unsurpassed lengthwise mixing results due to the soil being remixed several times as the cultivator makes its way across the field. The tines have a variable release force of up to 700 kg and the cultivator can

work down to a depth of 40 cm, which is unique.”

Adjustable levelling units Hydraulically adjustable and rotating levelling units follow the tines. A parallelogram ensures that the levelling units work at the same angle across the entire machine width, regardless of working depth.

Replaceable and flexible consolidation packers The consolidation packers are available in two different versions and are replaceable. SoilRunner is a U-profile packer with an alternated construction in which

soil acts on soil. SoilRunner can be tilted, making it possible to attain various degrees of consolidation packing after the machine. An alternative is SteelRunner, a cultivating steel roller with pivoting scrapers.

SteelRunner is recommended for medium weight to clay soils where a cultivating roller may be needed.

The consolidation unit can bear the entire weight of the machine or be raised so that it moves above the ground depending on the desired results. It can also be fully raised and is easy to detach.

Excellent seedbed structure with the RW6 and ANDPAK from Grégoire-Besson In a bid to win the continuing fight against black grass, weeds and disease (mycotoxins) without the use of excessive chemicals, ploughing is still proving the most effective deterrent. vailable in 4-5 and 6 furrows the RW6 Mounted Plough from GrégoireBesson offers high-performance ploughing through the use of the latest technology such as 3-point linkage suspension, angle adjustment, headstock-to-frame linkage via parallelogram, hydraulic independent front furrow adjustment and plough alignment.

To optimise traction and lateral forces, the RW6 is equipped with new offset leg elements. This technology combined with the new frame in “Z” design allows a better wheel position, wheel track is

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‘taken out’ and load transfer is optimised.

With compaction and ventilation key, soil erosion also needs careful consideration – especially went working light to medium land. The ANDPAK range of fully mounted rollers allows for consolidation of the soil directly behind the plough, limiting erosion whilst increasing moisture conservation. The result, an ideal structure for seedbed preparation or for sowing directly behind the plough.

Vario assembly ensures the ANDPAK roller adapts automatically to the width of the plough, whilst the realignment cylinder offers height adjustment

26 | Farming Monthly | September 2016

of the roller, ensuring the correct compaction pressure is applied. In addition to offering both ploughing and soil consolidation in one pass

the ANDPAK from GrégoireBesson offers a reduction in both labour and fuel consumption costs.

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| Tillage

Halse in action at Tillage-Live Halse will have the Ovlac AV200 5 Furrow (Auto Reset Hydraulic Vari â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Width) plough and Versatill stubble cultivator in action on its working demo plot at Tillage-Live. he Ovlac AV200 benefits from its wheel design, as it transfers the weight closer to the tractor; enabling ploughing of more ground closer to field boundaries. Halse says it gets the best draft response from having a depth wheel at the end of the plough, and customers have the choice of both options.

The advance wheel offers compromise with the outside of the depth wheel which is significantly closer to the last landside. The plough also features 78cm under beam clearance, solid hardox legs and self-aligning headstock.

The Versatill stubble cultivator 3m version is suitable for high speed seed bed preparation, and has a working depth range from 5 to 35cm.

There are 10 tines in three rows with 30cm spacing and a mixing/levelling disc complete with a non-block reconsolidation roller. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s available in Rigid up to 3.5m and folding models up to 5m, trailed kits are also available.

Fitted at the rear is a spring roller which has self-cleaning and reconsolidation features.

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Tungsten Carbide tines come as standard as do HEL Hardox steel legs. Halse claim the

Versatill is an extremely strong maintenance free seed bed cultivator.

September 2016 | Farming Monthly | 27

| Fencing

We love talking electric Protect your investment fencing! www.electricfencing.co.uk is the largest specialist online supplier of electric fencing in the UK.

Leading timber products manufacturer, M&M Timber is offering long life fencing for solar farms with the introduction of their new SolarGuard posts designed to cater for the growing need for quality, durable fencing for solar installations.

here are now over 465 solar farms in Britain – with investment in renewable energy escalating over the last decade as farmers, landowners and entrepreneurs look to source a reliable income stream and Government seek to increase the UK’s renewable energy capacity. The installation of solar energy is a huge capital investment and costly to repair – so methods to protect, strengthen and secure solar farm perimeters is fundamentally important. Often spread over very large areas of open land and located miles from any public areas, installations can be vulnerable to theft & vandalism, as well as to damage caused by incursions of wildlife such as deer.

Fencing using bespoke SolarGuard posts can help to deter trespassers and minimise the risk of damage. In addition the natural wood enables the fencing to ascetically complement the rural environment.

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aving the most extensive and comprehensive range of products to cover all of your electric fencing needs, the company can supply everything from electrified poultry netting, three reel sheep systems for strip grazing to permanent systems for cattle.

Sometimes it can be tricky to know where to start with electric fencing! Which energiser is best for which system and which system is best for which animal…?

And what is best to keep animals in or to keep predators out?! Or

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perhaps it is just a matter of repairing an old system?… We can answer all your questions and sort your fencing conundrum... and supply the right products for the job direct to your door within 23 working days.

So if you have an electric fencing question … just ask! We'd be happy to help. If you are not sure what you need - contact us we know electric fencing!

Keep checking our online shop – we are constantly updating our sale and clearance sections… there are bargains to be grabbed!

Call: 01620 860058 or email info@electricfencing.co.uk

28 | Farming Monthly | September 2016

Unique design for maximum security Each SolarGuard post features a scientifically designed incising process for increased protection a virtual 'zone of confidence' - at the critical area where the post is at most risk of decay. The incisions allow deeper penetration of the Tanalith E wood preservative to provide more effective and consistent defence. M&M Timber offer a full 15 year warranty on SolarGuard posts - and for extreme locations a 30 year inservice lifetime warranty is available. The 4 way pointed posts deliver ultimate stability, with each post tagged for traceability and their bulky specification helps to deter theft. With three times the life-span of conventional fencing timbers, the natural looking machined round SolarGuard posts offer real economy in terms of renewable fencing labour costs and materials.

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| Fencing

Whatever your fencing requirements, Calders & Grandidge can help...

Boston based Calders & Grandidge is the major supplier of pressure creosoted fencing and gates to the thoroughbred stud market in the UK, and have been proud to hold a Royal Warrant for supplying preserved timber fencing to the HM The Queen for over 30 years. alders & Grandidge specialise in pressure treated timber and the company has historically supplied the coal mining industry and railway networks with sleepers, and telephone and electricity companies with telegraph poles.

Agricultural and equine fencing forms a significant part of their product portfolio, and the company is the largest producer of creosoted timber products in England.

The company holds FSC and PEFC certification and sources all

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of its softwood timber from sustainable forests. They are one of a small number of companies that are accredited under the National Highways Sector Scheme 4 for the manufacture of roadside fencing.

Calders & Grandidge also manufacture a range of handcrafted field and estate gates which are available for delivery nationwide and are exported all across Europe. These are available from stock in standard sizes or can be made to measure, if required.

For further information visit www.caldersandgrandidge.com

September 2016 | Farming Monthly | 29

| Red Tractor

Farming industry gets behind Red Tractor Week as autumn celebration of British food begins The UK farming industry is uniting to support Red Tractor Week this September as an autumn campaign dedicated to promoting great, British food gets underway. ow in its fifth year, Red Tractor Week (12 to 18 September) includes a huge programme of activity designed to highlight the provenance of Red Tractor food to shoppers and remind them of the stringent standards that are used to produce it.

Farmers will be taking part in events at major supermarkets up and down the country to talk to the public about how British food is produced, backed up by a huge on-pack sticker promotion. Industry bodies will be spreading the message to their own audiences through digital and social media activity.

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Farmers are encouraged to get involved in events running throughout the week at major supermarket stores across the UK, where farmers will be talking to shoppers about Red Tractor and what it means.

This year the event kick starts the Celebrate Great British Food campaign which runs throughout the autumn. Announced in April – and backed by UK Government – the programme of activity sees a whole range of farming organisations coming together with a clear message to consumers to look for the Red Tractor when they buy their food.

Environment Secretary Andrea Leadsom said: “Whether it’s beef from the hills and pastures of the West Country or Yorkshire’s famed Wensleydale cheese, British food is renowned around the globe for its quality, innovation and tradition.

“The Red Tractor logo is an iconic symbol of this – assuring shoppers that their food is traceable, safe to eat and produced responsibly.

“It’s wonderful to see our world-leading food and farming industry joining forces to encourage everyone to shop smart and support British farmers.”

Events include the NFU’s Back British Farming Day on Wednesday 14 September, British Food Fortnight, which starts on 17 September, and British Sausage Week which gets underway on 31 October.

Andrew Blenkiron, Suffolk farmer and vicechairman of Assured Food Standards, said: “Everyone has played their part to make sure that the farming industry is united behind a single, simple message to consumers which is to support Red Tractor food.

“This autumn’s coordinated campaign of activity gives the farming and food industry a huge opportunity to communicate the values of British food.

“People will be able to get an even better understanding of the standards that British farming adheres to, further increasing consumer loyalty and the purchasing of Red Tractor labelled products.”

The campaign sees the farming industry uniting in a concerted effort to educate consumers and raise the profile of British food.

The NFU, NFU Scotland and Ladies in Pigs have mobilised their members to ensure a strong presence at in-store retailer events up and down the country during Red Tractor Week, while the AHDB will feature the on-pack sticker promotion in television advertising during its four-week beef and lamb mini-roast campaign, starting in mid-October.

Further support is being provided by the National Federation of Young Farmers Clubs, National Pig Association, Ladies in Beef and the National Sheep Association.

In store, Red Tractor is launching its biggest ever promotion designed to give food shoppers a taste of what it is like to live close to where their food comes from. On pack stickers, giving shoppers the chance to win £300 of Premier Cottages UK mini break vouchers every day for 70 days, will be found on Red Tractor assured products in all of Britain’s major supermarkets.

Farmers are encouraged to get involved in events running throughout the week at major supermarket stores across the UK, where farmers will be talking to shoppers about Red Tractor and what it means.

Free materials to help farmers talk to the public are available to order through the Red Tractor Marketing Tool Kit here, as well as a guide to engaging with shoppers through Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, and a campaign consumer postcard for inspiration on what to say.

For farmers wanting to get involved in Red Tractor Week, information is available online at www.redtractor.org.uk/redtractorweek

ALDI celebrates Red Tractor Week with farmers To mark Red Tractor Week and celebrate quality British food that customers can trust, members of the Red Tractor farm and food standards scheme will be visiting Aldi stores in Bramley, Caerphilly, Enfield, Irlams o' th' Height, Cowes and Edgbaston this month. armers from across the country will meet customers and talk about how products are farmed and produced. Discount supermarket, Aldi - whose core range of fresh meat products are 100% British all year round and Red Tractor assured - has been working with Red Tractor to give customers the assurance that food carrying the logo is farmed, prepared and regularly checked by independent experts to make sure it is of a good standard.

The retailer is committed to building longterm relationships with its farmers and all other suppliers and growers. Aldi was the first

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supermarket to sign up to the NFU Fruit & Veg Pledge – a charter of best business practice, seeking to develop relationships and limit risk between retailers, intermediaries and growers.

Tony Baines, Joint Managing Director of Corporate Buying at Aldi, said: “Supporting Red Tractor is very important to our customers and to us as a business and we are proud to be able to offer our customers high quality, Red Tractor assured products, which recognise the best of British.

“We look forward to welcoming Red Tractor farmers to our stores to share their knowledge and experience with our consumers, and also to reinforce the fact that you don’t have to

30 | Farming Monthly | September 2016

break the bank to buy responsibly sourced, quality food products.”

The retailer is committed to building long term relationships with its farmers and all other suppliers and growers.

For more information on Red Tractor at Aldi and to find out about Aldi’s quality assured products, visit https://www.aldi.co.uk/redtractor. Here you will also find inspirational Red Tractor recipe ideas to liven up your meals.

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| Security

As rural theft increases, Master Locksmiths Association warns farmers & landowners to review their security as the clocks go back Dr Steffan George, Master Locksmiths Association development director. armers and rural landowners are being warned to increase their security measures ahead of the winter months in a bid to tackle the increased risk in rural crime. The recommendations come as statistics show that the rural theft continues to increase – with livestock theft rising by 7% over the last year1 and tractor theft continuing to blight the sector.

Rural areas present the greatest opportunity for thieves because of isolated houses and buildings, lower lighting – especially during autumn and winter – and fewer witnesses. A recent survey has revealed that the true cost of crime for those living and working in rural areas could exceed £800m, with the average cost of those crimes to a household being over £2,5002.

Here, Dr Steffan George, development director of the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA), the leading trade association for the locksmithing profession, gives expert advice on protecting your land: Preventing crime in rural communities is a big issue at this time of year and farmers need to look at their premises and equipment with the eye of a thief.

The following steps will ensure your land is as protected as possible: 1 Don’t be tempted to economise by buying cheap locks. High quality locks, chains and padlocks will prove an investment. Make sure you use products that have been approved by an independent product testing house to provide peace of mind. Visit www.soldsecure.com to check for lists of appropriate products. Where

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appropriate use good quality padlocks with heavy duty hasp and staple on barn and outbuilding doors. It is ideal if the locks are fitted directly to the door, with two equally spaced locks from top to bottom. Controlling access to farmyards is important and this can be achieved through the use of quality chains and padlocks being used to lock all gates.

2 Don’t specify and fit locks or undertake repairs yourself as fitting the wrong products can undermine security and affect insurance premiums and cover should the worst happen.

3 Maintenance is vital as rusted locks, chains, hasps and staples, cracked panes of glass and rotted frames and sills are all features that opportunistic thieves look out for, so it’s essential to perform regular and thorough maintenance checks.

4 Fit alarms to outbuildings, invest in outdoor security lighting – such as dusk till dawn and motion sensor lighting, and install CCTV and intruder alert systems.

Surveillance is an increasingly popular measure, along with property marking/tagging systems.

5 Theft of farm machinery is frequent and tends to be organised, every year tractors worth millions of pounds are stolen from British farms and shipped. Tracking devices have proved popular but are of little use when your vehicle is already in another country. Instead of trying to find your tractor after it has been stolen, try to stop it being stolen in the first place by locking down gates and outbuildings using locks, chains, bollards, wheel clamps, ground anchors and safes for locking keys away.

6 Finally, we recommend consulting an MLA-approved

locksmith, who will be able to carry out a tailored security assessment on your property and land, advising on suitable measures for both safety and security.

Taking the above precautions and investing in the right equipment will put you in the best position

when it comes to protecting your land and property. If you would like further advice and input from a professional, contact your local MLA-approved locksmith for peace of mind.

September 2016 | Farming Monthly | 31

| UK Dairy Day

Dairy Innovation: Knowledge Trail, Topical Seminars, Cow Painting and more!..

UK Dairy Day is set to excite With just over one month to go, plans for the UK's premier dairy event, UK Dairy Day are really taking shape.

K Dairy Day is fortunate to have support from across the industry; principal partners for 2016 include Cogent Breeding, NWF Agriculture, Eprinex, Barclays and Holstein UK – and returning to the show this year is the 'Sharing Knowledge' Zone.

This dedicated area includes two seminar areas running from 10am to 4pm, with a captivating line-up of speakers who will be stimulating thought and debate. Listen to cattle lameness expert Roger Blowey as he discusses findings relating to the 5 Point Plan for Control of Digital Dermatitis. At a time of tight margins the promotion of your team, the business and commercial offer is vital to staying

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ahead of the field. With this is mind Anglia Farmers will be presenting on the importance of marketing.

The Tenant Farmers Association will be addressing the issue of succession - when to start the conversation about handing on the farm and how to engage all members of the family in the process. Also in the line-up will be two presentations on the theme of BVD and Marco Winters of AHDB will be developing our knowledge of genomics.

If you want to know more about the latest in herd health, cow comfort, nutrition alongside features on how to promote your business, make sure you visit the Sharing Knowledge Zone. In addition, engage in practical demonstrations including foot trimming, knife sharpening and 'Beneath the Black and White Cow'

anatomy painting.

Seek out points in the Knowledge Trail UK Dairy Day 2016 is a Dairy Pro accredited event; coming along to the day to 'Share Knowledge' across the industry will gain farmers two points, one for Livestock Production Systems (LP) and the other for Business Management (BM). While at the event there are several other opportunities giving visitors the potential to gain a further ten points - making the day worth the maximum achievable for a single day's learning under the scheme.

A 'Knowledge Trail' organised in partnership with Dairy Pro and NFYFC will flow around the whole event with various stands and activities around the venue being 'pointed'. This trail will include the Sharing Knowledge Zone and its seminars, the demonstration areas and numerous interactive quizzes organised with Dairy Pro training partners.

Visitors will be provided with a map showing them where the training partners and activities are happening. Visitors do not need to be signed up to Dairy Pro before they come to UK Dairy Day, the scheme will have a stand in the Sharing Knowledge Zone where people can sign up and discuss their training needs.

Sue Cope, UK Dairy Day Event Director, commented; “As well as industry networking and meeting with suppliers, we have thought creatively to bring a new and innovative edge to the show.

Linked with our show theme of ‘sharing knowledge’ we have carefully selected seminars that are really topical and current in modern dairy farming and we hope to present farmers with inspired thinking and discussion.

This year entry is completely free so plan ahead, schedule some time off away from the farm and head to Telford on Wednesday 14th September.”

Save the date UK Dairy Day, Wednesday 14th September 2016 at The International Centre, Telford, Shropshire.

FREE entry and car parking for all visitors and exhibitors – and FREE entry for all show cattle.

32 | Farming Monthly | September 2016

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| UK Dairy Day

How much can the ADF Milking system save you?

With the current milk market it has never been so important for dairy farmers to reduce costs and further improve their efficiency. he ADF system dramatically reduces labour whilst improving cow health and increasing milk yield – all of which increases profitability for the farmer. 750 farms across the UK have now installed the ADF system to increase their milk profit.

The award winning ADF Automatic Dipping and Flushing System applies dip to cow’s teats immediately after milking, with consistent teat coverage the ADF system prevents residue and bacteria from being drawn up the teat canal when most vulnerable, which is a major cause of mastitis. The cluster is removed and the ADF system thoroughly sanitises each teat cup with six cycles of sanitised water and compressed air, every cow is milked with a clean and sanitised liner doing the utmost to prevent cross contamination of mastitis Minimising the cost of clinical mastitis can make huge savings on veterinary costs and greatly reduce your Somatic Cell Count improving your milk quality. A staggering amount of labour can be saved by automating manual dipping, giving you back valuable time to spend elsewhere on the farm or however you want.

ADF Milking have developed a Savings Calculator which lets you find out how much you could save by installing the ADF System.

Many farmers are saving more than 2 pence per litre on their milk price since becoming ADF

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dairy farmers.

ADF Milking will be exhibiting at UK Dairy Day in Hall 1, stand H140. They will be providing demonstrations of the ADF system in action and offering you the chance to try the Savings Calculator to find out how much you could be saving by milking with the ADF System.

At the UK Dairy Day event, head towards the

yellow tower of signature ADF Milking clusters looming above the exhibition hall, where you will be greeted with award-winning cheeses and milk vodka made on their customer’s farms.

September 2016 | Farming Monthly | 33

| UK Dairy Day

Complimentary Mycotoxin test available from Ab Vista at UK Dairy Day New portfolio of health A complimentary mycotoxin test has been added to AB Vista’s offer of free on-the spot analysis for any silage and grass samples brought to the 3rd UK Dairy Day event, to be held in Telford on 14 September.

ll maize and wholecrop forage samples tested on the company’s stand (H102) using the NIR4 Farm hand-held near-infrared reflectance (NIR) spectrometer will also be sent for full mycotoxin screening using the Mycocheck service run by Micron BioSystems. The standard forage analysis results will be available immediately, whilst the mycotoxin test results will be emailed within 10 working days.

No charge will be made for either service, and the mycotoxin evaluation is likely to be of particular interest to those bringing maize and wholecrop cereal silages for analysis.

“A 2014-15 survey of clamp-face silage samples from across the south west of England found that mycotoxins were present in 90% of maize silages, 66% of wholecrop cereal silages and 71% of total

Merial features parasite control & calf health at UK Dairy Day. erial’s Eprinexbranded stand will take cues from the world of Formula 1 racing. Merial staff become ‘Team Eprinex’ for the day and will be on hand to explain how managing parasites in dairy cows can help maintain herd health, protect fertility and ensure efficient milk production.

A Formula 1 style racing simulator will enable visitors to race around a virtual track and compete for the fastest time. A trophy will be awarded to the overall winner from the event, and all participants will receive a

small giveaway.

The company’s stand will also highlight recently-launched calf health products including Locatim® to help prevent neonatal calf scour caused by E.Coli F5 (K99), and Bovalto® Respi 3 and Respi 4 vaccines that help protect against major viral and bacterial causes of bovine respiratory disease.

A new hoof care product range, named ClearStride™, will be launched at the event. The products offer a range of solutions to achieve optimum on-farm hoof care management and improve cattle mobility.

dry matters are high.”

The AB Vista free-of-charge forage analysis service is available to all farmers, nutritionists and consultants attending the 2016

Dairy Day event.

For more information, contact AB Vista on +44(0)1672 517 650 or info@abvista.com

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See us on stand E045

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mixed rations (TMR),” states Dr Derek McIlmoyle, AB Vista’s Technical Director for GB and Ireland.

“Maize silage is particularly susceptible, with more than half of the samples that tested positive containing multiple mycotoxins, which will often combine to produce an additive effect, even at low levels.”

The survey was the result of a collaboration led by Micron BioSystems that included University of Bristol, The University of Nottingham and Duchy College, plus key industry partners.

“Growing cereal crops are highly prone to infection by Fusarium moulds, which are the source of the most damaging mycotoxins for ruminants,” Dr McIlmoyle adds. “Grass silages are also at risk, but more typically from mycotoxins produced by the moulds which often grow on the top surface of the clamp, or even on the open clamp face if silage

products to be launched

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| UK Dairy Day

UK Dairy Day – focus on forage and rationing Free forage analysis live on our stand (Hall 2: H239) – come along and bring grass silage for complete nutrient analyses and application into the latest NutriOpt Dairy rationing programme – what can they expect this winter? mportance of forage analysis Forage is the foundation of rationing and is the single most important winter feed but is often the least accurately assessed.

The first step in accurate forage analysis is taking a representative sample in a ‘W’ shape from the section of clamp being fed to take into account the variation across the clamp face. Forage samples then need to be sent on a regular basis for complete laboratory analysis to maximise forage utilisation.

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Dynamic energy (DyNE) reveals the true energy value of forages as the total amount of net energy from nutrients that are being formed and absorbed in the digestive tract including VFAs (and formation of VFAs from lactic acid), glucose,

within the forage are being utilised in the cow. From rumen fermentation and rumen health, to digestion in the small intestine and further fermentation in the large intestine, a true nutritional feeding value of the forage can be calculated in terms of energy and protein that is available to the cow for milk production.

Dynamic energy (DyNE) reveals the true energy value of forages as the total amount of net energy from nutrients that are being formed and absorbed in the digestive tract including VFAs (and formation of VFAs from lactic acid), glucose, amino acids and fatty acids; it provides an accurate estimation of energy available to the cow based on processes taking place inside the animal.

NutriOpt Digestible Intestinal Protein (NDIP) is the true amount of metabolically available protein to the cow, being the sum of microbial protein yield in the rumen and bypass protein absorbed in the small intestine.

Unlike other models, NDIP originates from the same nutrient data and modelling as DyNE,

thereby providing a totally integrated and balanced energy and protein system to maximise dairy ration efficiency.

Summary Together with full and accurate forage analyses, the NutriOpt Dairy Model allows cows to be fed with greater precision and optimal ration efficiency.

Visit us at the Trouw Nutrition stand at the UK Dairy Day (Hall 2: H239). Bring a forage sample for free NIRS analysis including NutriOpt parameters for an accurate determination of how the forage will perform this winter.

See us at UK Dairy Day

amino acids and fatty acids

The Trouw Nutrition laboratory offers accurate forage analysis by NIRS which is monitored by stringent quality control protocols against wet chemistry analysis on a monthly basis. Detailed nutrient analysis is available for forages to include the new parameters required for rationing according to the latest NutriOpt Dairy rationing model.

Maximising forage utilisation Maximising forage utilisation is crucial whatever the financial environment. Why not encourage your customers to bring a silage sample to our stand at the UK Dairy Day for analysis by NIRS for a quick and reliable turnaround of results. In addition to the detailed nutritional analysis of the silage will be the new forage parameters introduced this year as part of the NutriOpt Dairy Model, and the opportunity to see how the forage will perform in the ration.

Optimal ration efficiency Inclusion of NutriOpt parameters on forage analysis beyond the basic nutrients provides the application of proven research to explain how nutrients

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September 2016 | Farming Monthly | 35

| Buildings

RIDBA launches new awards event for 2017 The Rural and Industrial Design and Building Association (RIDBA) has launched the RIDBA Building Awards 2017. ormerly known as the Farming and Agricultural Buildings Awards (FAB Awards), the new and improved Awards will remain the highlight of the industry calendar, comprising of new award categories and recognising innovation and excellence in the industrial and agricultural building industry.

Entries are now open for four award categories covering the full spectrum of the industries that RIDBA represents: • Rural – Cattle, Equestrian, Captive (zoo) and Domestic • Industrial – Light, Medium or Large • Other – Retail, Manufacturing, Leisure, Education and MOD • Training – Schemes and Projects or Managers and Apprentices Entries close on 25 November and the winners will be selected by a panel of independent industry experts who will be looking for high quality workmanship, technical complexity and environmental qualities amongst additional criteria. The new RIDBA Training Award will recognise the commitment of RIDBA members to investing in a qualified and skilled workforce. Our confirmed judges so far are: David Collier (David Collier Rural Planning); Martin Heywood (RIDBA Technical Consultant); Graham Willmott

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(Chairman of the Advisory Committee for Roofwork (ACR)) and Sarah Garry (Skills Policy Manager, Build UK).

The winners will be announced by ‘Countryfile’ presenter Ellie Harrison in front of over 100 industry guests at an Awards Dinner taking place at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Cardiff in March 2017. From securing a competitive edge to being recognised for outstanding work there are a huge number of reasons to enter the Awards.

Award winners are also highlighted in RIDBA promotional materials and wider industry publications so the Awards are an excellent opportunity for RIDBA members to raise their company profile.

RIDBA Chairman, James Anthony said: ‘RIDBA has achieved a great deal within the industrial and agricultural building industry and the Awards will provide an excellent opportunity to showcase some exceptional work. A RIDBA award will be the sign of a true industry benchmark and excellence which will help companies stand out in the crowd.’

The RIDBA Awards 2017 are open exclusively to RIDBA members plus suppliers, architects and specifiers working with RIDBA members. The Awards entry form can be completed here.

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| Buildings

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September 2016 | Farming Monthly | 37

| Forestry

WinTree® nursery management software helps maximise forestry business development potential for Cheviot Trees Cheviot Trees have become pioneers within forestry plant production by engaging TSD IT bv and their WinTree® nursery management software solutions. One year on from WinTree® implementation, they continue to work towards achieving their ambitious growth and development plans. ithin this rapid period of sales growth for the Cheviot team, there was an equally rapid realisation that their existing software was no longer hitting the mark. They needed software that would grow with them – something that afforded them flexibility and power to develop. This solution would need to handle the specialised nature of the range of plants grown. Whilst not great in number of species, the number of plants within Cheviot’s species batches is often in the thousands.

This requires a high level of traceability and control to comply with Forestry Reproductive

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Material (FRM) legislation. The chosen software solution would need to be both robust and comprehensive to handle this complexity.

TSD IT bv develops software solutions for companies in the horticultural and nursery stock sectors. Their flagship WinTree® software suite helps companies with business administration, project management, customer relationship management, accounting, plant and stock data management and landscaping in Europe. With over 20 clients across the UK, including growers, traders, tree nurseries and cash and carry companies, Wellestablished WinTree® users include Coles Nurseries,

Boningale, Europlants and Four Oaks Cash and Carry. The company have also recently added Nicholsons Nurseries to their expanding portfolio of growers who need the stability, flexibility and diversity of options that WinTree® affords a horticultural business.

WinTree® and TSD fitted the Cheviot Trees remit perfectly.

Katherine Short, Office Manager and WinTree® ‘guru’ at Cheviot highlighted the importance of inhouse preparation of data, staff training and acceptance as critical factors in the seamless transition they experienced when changing their software to WinTree®. She highlighted that “the intuitive nature of the software meant that we quickly had almost all aspects up and running within a matter of weeks – all down to a plain-English approach from the TSD team.”

There was continued close collaboration with TSD to ensure full compliance of all data and customer documentation for the UK’s FRM legislation.

At the end of their first year trading within the WinTree® realm, Katherine and the Cheviot team

are both impressed and encouraged about their future with TSD. “Within days of the install, we knew we’d made the right decision. Our colleagues were able to complete tasks within a fraction of the time.”

With a new computer-controlled growing complex and substantial expansion at their Berwick site as well as their developing WinTree® capabilities, Cheviot Trees are poised at the forefront of the production and supply of cell grown plant material for future planting projects across the UK and Europe.

Call for special offers

38 | Farming Monthly | September 2016

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| Machinery

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

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

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

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

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

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September 2016 | Farming Monthly | 39

| Energy

WELTEC BIOPOWER to build 800-kW biogas plant in Colombia WELTEC BIOPOWER will shortly start building an anaerobic digestion plant for Colombia‘s largest egg producer. he 800-kW biogas plant is to go live in early 2017. In terms of the feedstock input, the operator Incubadora Santander, which produces about 3.5 million eggs a day, plans to make use of the codigestion of dry chicken manure from the laying hens and process water from the production.

Since the Colombian government started supporting the generation of renewable energies, especially the agricultural industry has discovered its huge biomass potential. So far, only little of this potential has been converted into green energy. In view of these framework conditions, the egg producer Incubadora Santander has decided to generate energy from biomass. The enterprise – which operates several poultry

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farms close to the western Colombian province of Cauca – markets its eggs under the “Kikes“ brand in 14 cities in Colombia.

The production yields a great amount of dry chicken manure and process water, with which the 800-kW biogas plant from the German plant manufacturer WELTEC BIOPOWER can be operated without purchasing any additional substrate. The feedstock will be pre-treated in a sedimentation tank. There, the manure will be separated from sand and lime and will be pumped into the 4,903-m³ digester by way of an upstream storage unit with a capacity of 1,076 m³. Through the co-digestion, the digestate will reach a high fertiliser value, enabling it to be returned into the plant‘s agricultural substance cycle for efficient use as liquid manure on its own fields.

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The high quality requirements of South America‘s agricultural and food industry were a key reason why the operator Juan Felipe Montoya Muñoz opted for WELTEC technology “made in Germany“. For the sake of hygiene and other reasons, the company prefers stainless steel, a highquality material, for the construction of the pre-storage tanks and digesters.

Apart from the high quality and the flexible substrate input, compact delivery and quick assembly are additional advantages of this material. Plant modules such as the ready-foroperation CHP plant, the preinstalled pump and control technology and the stainless-steel panels for the tanks will be transported to the plant location in maritime containers from Germany that will pass the Panama Canal.

The 80-km waterway cuts the distance from the East Coast to the Pacific Coast by several thousand kilometres.

With the WELTEC biogas plant that is to supply power and process heat from early 2017, Incubadora Santander will be well prepared for its expansion plans.

The company, which was established more than 50 years ago, is committed to strong international growth. “An important element of our strategy is to establish the ‚Kikes‘ brand around the globe by means of various measures such as direct investments and strategic alliances. In the coming years, we will step up our production to 10 million eggs a day“, explains thirdgeneration company manager Montoya Muñoz.

In line with the customer‘s pronounced international orientation, the customer was impressed with the high degree of international experience of WELTEC BIOPOWER. The plant manufacturer has already demonstrated this experience through the establishment of large biomethane parks and biogas

plants for various customers from the waste and food industries as well as from the agricultural and sewage treatment industries.

Before making his decision, the Colombian operator toured various plant locations in Germany in order to see this for himself.

The operator Incubadora Santander, which produces about 3.5 million eggs a day, plans to make use of the co digestion of dry chicken manure from the laying hens and process water from the production.

With the help of such mature technology, the plans of the Colombian government are likely to succeed: to increase the share of renewable energies in the power network to 6.5 percent by 2020. Especially Colombia‘s agricultural industry is producing large quantities of side products and waste that can be used for energy generation purposes. The country‘s energy potential for biomass is estimated at 16 Gwh a year. So far, these have been used almost exclusively for the production of biodiesel and ethanol, but this will doubtlessly change in the near future!

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| Machinery

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September 2016 | Farming Monthly | 41

| Energy

Green Gas: A new revenue stream for UK AD Farm Producers Farmers and rural businesses with an Anaerobic Digestion plant could secure a 10-20% premium on the gas they produce by tapping into growing demand for green energy across Europe. lthough currently most AD plants burn the gas they produce to generate electricity and heat, there is an emerging market for biomethane, which can be injected directly into the gas main, says Richard Palmer, Energy Consultant at Butler Sherborn Energy.

“Although consumers in the UK are reluctant to pay a premium for this green energy, corporate energy customers across Europe are increasingly keen to demonstrate their energy credentials,” he says.

“We have secured an agreement with a major energy company, which can pipe green gas through the interconnected gas mains to European customers, so can now offer British producers a share of this premium market.”

The development comes at a critical time for the British renewable energy industry, which is looking increasingly unstable as a result of Government spending reviews and Brexit. “Historically, biogas has been used primarily to generate electricity, supported by the Renewables Obligation and Feed-in Tariffs (FiT),” says Mr Palmer. “However, in 2011 the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) helped to kick-start the market for bio-methane injection in to the mains gas grid. So far this has yielded two income streams: the RHI and the wholesale gas price.

Now there is a third source of revenue, offering a 10-20%

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premium over current wholesale gas returns.”

Lucy Hopwood, Director at bioeconomy consultant NNFCC, says that gaining added value for green gas is very timely in light of recent tariff reductions. “It’s no longer possible to add additional capacity under the FiT scheme and the same is soon likely to be true of the RHI, so for many plants expansion isn’t an option – they must make better use of what they have,” she explains. “Developers are also starting to look at how they can increase productivity, without the expense of capital outlay.”

Existing plants can be converted to purify the gas by removing carbon dioxide and trace gases, after which the biomethane is injected into the gas main and sold as renewable fuel, tracked via international trading schemes.

“Until now, Green Gas Certificates have represented little added value to the producer, as British consumers are reluctant to pay more for renewable fuel. Only now that we can tap into the European market can the opportunity be realised in the short-term,” says Mr Palmer. “That said, this is still an immature market in the UK and it may be that in the longer term British companies will be put under pressure to cut their carbon output, leading to premiums being available here.”

Gas producers will have to

register and meet the sustainability criteria of the International Sustainability & Carbon Certification body. “Most farmers’ AD feedstock will meet these criteria and the costs of any audit required will be covered by the energy company,” says Mr Palmer.

“The gas premium will depend on the carbon level of the feedstock,

and as power purchase agreements can be made in advance it does not matter if the renewal on any existing gas contract, or commissioning of a new bio-methane plant, is over 12 months from now.”

For more information contact Richard Palmer at Butler Sherborn Energy on 01285 883751.

Solar panel tax rise will dampen clean energy investments Commenting on Government plans to increase tax on solar panels, Mike Cherry, National Chairman at the Federation of Small Businesses, said: icrogeneration provides an opportunity for small businesses to invest in solutions that work for them. It reduces their dependence on a centralised energy grid and helps to meet the UK’s strict carbon reduction targets. However, microgenerators are already being

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discouraged in the market through a combination of regulatory, policy and practical constraints.

“The inclusion of renewable technology investment in the business rates calculation would further discourage small business investors, many of whom may already have been impacted by recent changes to low carbon subsidies."

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| Energy

Giving hard-working tanks & silos the love they deserve Regular use and constant exposure to weather and other environmental factors means the storage tanks and silos used in agriculture, energy, utilities and the production industries need regular maintenance. Beyond that, refurbishment is also an option that may also extend their working life considerably. As a well established manufacturer of some of the most innovative tanks available in the market, Lipp offers long term support to users of its equipment. n its near-60 year history Lipp has installed tanks at over 10,000 sites around the world and supports their users with on-going inspection, maintenance and refurbishment services. The company’s unique construction method ensures the highest quality tanks for storing solid, liquid and gaseous substances but it also means that inspection and service has to be out of the ordinary.

The dual-seam tank production system developed by Lipp allows tanks to be rapidly constructed on site. It is based on an automatic construction process in which a continuous steel band is unwound from its delivery coil and rewound as a large helix to form the main body of the tank. As this is happening adjacent edges of the band are continuously folded over twice, interconnecting them to form a dual seam, spiral construction.

Conventional tanks are constructed using bolted panel systems, but can suffer from premature corrosion, leaks and problems with safety. Further, the construction method restricts the choice of tank size and is difficult to adapt to specific local conditions. In contrast the Lipp Dual-Seam System guarantees high static stability, rapid construction, low assembly and investment costs, leak proof construction, minimal installation space requirements, a choice of construction materials, low maintenance costs, excellent corrosion resistance and long service life.

The construction technique provides maximum tank integrity and a perfect joint so that even aggressive liquids in the container’s interior find no attackable surfaces for corrosion, thus ensuring that maximum

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impermeability is achieved. The tanks are freestanding and extremely stable. The edgeless, smooth surface on the interior created by the dual fold construction method means there are no nooks or crannies that could precipitate premature corrosion.

Service and maintenance However, the tanks, and any associated equipment, need to be looked after by regular inspection and servicing. Proper maintenance will ensure a long and productive life for each tank, while refurbishment will give new potential to older tanks.

After installation of one or more of its tanks, Lipp immediately turns its attention to safeguarding the multi-faceted performance of the tanks and all the associated parts.

In fact because the building method creates a bespoke tank for each application, Lipp has a good understanding of every tank’s performance requirements as soon as it goes into use. This enables it to bring a personalised and comprehensive maintenance service to every customer.

The reference information built up during the design and build stages is retained so that it can be utilised during service and inspection visits to ensure that the expected performance levels are being met. All inspections are carried out by fully qualified Lipp professionals, who use the latest analytic equipment. This comprehensive analysis also informs Lipp and the end user which parts of the system may need particular attention or replacement, either immediately or in the future.

Both tank installation and maintenance are carried out by qualified Lipp technicians. By providing the same level of technical proficiency as the original installation team, Lipp safeguards the quality level of

maintenance activities and therefore of the tank itself. Lipp technicians also impart knowledge and training to the end users, so that everyone can become familiar with their system and raise awareness of standard inspection procedures. This can help customers become more involved in their systems, bringing a shared knowledge between Lipp and its end users. As a result, every client benefits from the collective knowledge that has been built up

over many years of operating and maintaining these innovative systems.

In summary, part of the philosophy behind the service and maintenance approach is to build an intrinsic understanding of the technology in the tank’s owners and operators, so that they understand the system and can get the best from it technically while also ensuring a long and trouble-free working life.

September 2016 | Farming Monthly | 43

| Machinery

Kubota UK launches High horsepower Kubota Care for L Series technology comes to the ARION 400 Kubota UK, the market-leading supplier of agricultural, groundcare and construction machinery solutions, has extended Kubota Care on its L Series mid-range tractors.

ustomers wishing to purchase Kubotaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s everpopular L Series, mid-range utility tractors, can now take advantage of the innovative extended warranty programme through Kubota Care.

Offering complete peace of mind, Kubotaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s customers can now safeguard their tractor against any unforeseen expensive repair costs during the first five years of ownership. Customers simply decide the service hour usage at the time of purchase, so they only pay for the hours they use.

By choosing Kubota Care, customers benefit from all major service and maintenance carried out by an authorised Kubota dealer, with only Kubota genuine parts and lubricants used, ensuring maximum reliability and performance.

Kubota Care customers also have the option to part exchange

Tractors in the 90 to 140hp power range have to be capable of meeting a wide range of demands, ranging from livestock farmers just wanting a simple, straightforward tractor for yard and grassland work, to arable farmers looking for greater sophistication for field work.

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their tractor at any time for another machine from the Kubota L Series range, whilst still enjoying all the benefits of the programme. In addition, customers can make the most of an enhanced resale value for their tractor at any time during the five year term.

Kubota Care must be applied for at the time of purchase, and covers repair costs for an additional 36 month period for five years, or a maximum of 3,000 hours use.

To find out more about Kubota Care, visit www.kubota.co.uk or call 01844 268000.

he CLAAS ARION 400 range already offers a wide range of cab, transmission and specification options, but is now also available with a range of new equipment options previously only found on higher powered tractors in the CLAAS range.

A completely new feature that will appeal particularly when the ARION is being used for steeringintensive work, such as with a loader, is DYNAMIC STEERING, which provides three steering modes that enable the steering to

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be adapted to individual tasks.

In addition to the current 4speed, 4-range QUADRISHIFT transmission, all models will now be available with the 6-speed, 6range HEXASHIFT transmission from the AXION 800 and ARION 600/500 ranges. Also new is the availability of the CLAAS CSM (CLAAS SEQUENCE MANAGEMENT) headland management system, designed specifically for the CIS colour display used on the ARION 400.

The ARION 400 is also now the latest machine in the CLAAS range that can be monitored using TELEMATICS.

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| Machinery

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| Machinery

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

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

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

B & B Tractors (Warsop) Mansfield, Nottinghamshire NG20 0EP T: 01623 847171 Tutbury, Staffordshire DE13 9HS T: 01283 521522 www.bandbtractors.co.uk

R & D Machinery Ltd Totnes, Devon TQ9 6DP T: 01803 863400 www.rdmachinery.co.uk

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Andrew Symons South Moulton, Devon EX36 3LZ T: 01769 574455 Holsworthy, Devon EX22 6HL T: 01409 254040 www.andrewsymons.co.uk Ravenhill Ltd Hereford, Herefordshire T: 01432 352333 www.ravenhill.co.uk

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| Machinery

One hundred years of John Deere tractors One hundred years of John Deere tractors will be on show at the John Deere 50 Celebration & Heritage Event at Langar near Nottingham on September 24 and 25, 2016, when John Deere Limited publicly celebrates its 50th anniversary in the UK and Ireland. ohn Deere customers and fans are invited to join the anniversary celebrations by registering their attendance on the John Deere website at www.JohnDeere.co.uk/50years, with a chance to win special 50th anniversary merchandise in a prize draw.

As well as trade stands, static machinery exhibits and working demonstrations of tractors and implements, this special free outdoor event will feature activities and entertainment for all the family.

These will include archery, laser clay shooting, falconry and skydiving displays, synchronised kite flying and live music. There will also be a range of local food and produce as well as a licensed bar.

A parade of 50 vintage, classic and modern John Deere tractors and machinery will start with a 1916 Overtime Model R tractor, belonging to Lincolnshire farm manager Malcolm Robinson. This will also include the iconic 4020 tractor, marking the beginnings of John Deere Limited at Langar in 1966, and represent every decade up to the present day, finishing

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with John Deere’s new flagship 620hp four-track 9620RX. The Overtime tractor was given credit for helping the World War I effort by putting in many hours of overtime producing food for the war zone and the home front. John Deere’s first step into tractor production worldwide came in 1918 when the US company bought the Overtime’s manufacturer, the Waterloo Gasoline Traction Engine Company in Iowa, who also made the Waterloo Boy. This machine’s simple two-cylinder design became a feature of John Deere tractors for another four decades.

Later in the 20th century, John Deere three wheel, high clearance tractors came into East Anglia from America at the end of the Second World War under the Lend-Lease deal. For a short time in the early 1960s, a few dealers sold large John Deere tractors such as the 4010 – the UK’s first 100hp tractor – and 5010. These were imported from the USA by Lundell (Great Britain) Ltd of Edenbridge in Kent, who initially pioneered the use of large horsepower tractors in the UK, and who were bought by John Deere in 1962.

Contact your local dealer AGRICULTURAL MACHINERY Ripon Farm Services (Keighley) West Yorkshire Telephone 01535 632661, Visit www.riponfarmservices.com Ripon Farm Services (Ripon) North Yorkshire Telephone 01765 692255, Visit www.riponfarmservices.com Ripon Farm Services (Stockton) County Durham Telephone 01740 630254, Visit www.riponfarmservices.com Ripon Farm Services (Tadcaster) North Yorkshire Telephone 01937 835454, Visit www.riponfarmservices.com Ripon Farm Services (Darrington) Pontefract Telephone 01977 795241, Visit www.riponfarmservices.com Ripon Farm Services (Ottringham) Hull Telephone 01964 622351, Visit www.riponfarmservices.com

September 2016 | Farming Monthly | 47

| Machinery

New Holland updates narrow-body rotary combine range with new CR8.80 New Holland has launched its narrow-bodied CR8.80, the latest model in its rotary combine line up. Featuring a new engine which meets Tier 4B emissions criteria and adjustable vanes for superior grain separation. The new model is highly efficient and responsive, even under full load. he CR8.80’s new FPT Cursor 11 engine brings it in line with the rest of the CR range with ECOBlue™ HIeSCR emissions technology to meet Tier4B criteria. No requirements for engine gas recirculation (EGR) means it maintains the high efficiency expected of a CR combine while remaining responsive when running under full load for long periods.

Redesigned adjustable vanes have been added and help improve power efficiency and increase grain separation. Already in use on larger CR models the vanes sit on the top section of the rotor cage helping keep the crop

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on the rotor for longer. Improved centrifugal threshing removes more grain from the straw mat, which is particularly useful when working with damper straw more common in UK and Irish crops.

When shod with tall 710/70 R42 tyres or 24’’ tracks the CR8.80 treads a narrower path through traffic and gateways at 3.24m wide, while high capacity headers ensure optimum productivity in the field. The CR8.80 is capable of harvesting in excess of 50 tonnes of wheat per hour when fitted with a 30’ (9.1m) Varifeed™ table. It also features the same Twin Pitch Rotor™ technology and Dynamic Feed Roll module as can be found in the range topping CR10.90.

The CR8.80 is a comfortable place to spend long hours at the

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wheel with the Harvest Suite™ Ultra cab. Operators benefit from low noise levels of 73dB and a glass area of 6.3m2 for exceptional visibility, plus air-conditioning, automatic climate control, coolbox and removable fridge. New Holland’s CommandGrip™ handle and IntelliView™ IV monitor come as standard, while optional IntelliSteer® auto guidance helps

operators manage a variety of guidance paths and SmartSteer edge guidance automatically ensures the header is full, right to the edge.

The new CR8.80 makes its debut during New Holland’s Harvest Demonstration Tour of the UK during August and September.

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| ATV

Don’t neglect the tyres....

Honda ATV Special flotation tyres, capable of operating at very low inflation pressures, are key to an ATV’s ability to carry loads at speed over almost any farm terrain while causing less ground damage than any other farm vehicle, but they do need looking after. o spread the load over a large contact area, the sidewalls flex to a greater extent than conventional tyres and, although the tyres appear wide for their height, the length of tread on the ground is just as important, producing a ‘footprint’, which is almost square.

With increased inflation pressure, the sidewalls straighten, reducing the amount of tread in contact with the ground but, if pressures are reduced the sidewall bulge increases, spreading the weight over a larger surface area and reducing compaction and rutting.

During everyday farm use there are many potential hazards to the thin-walled tyres making regular condition checks essential. Every new Honda ATV comes with free operator training through the European ATV Safety Initiative (EASI), and the courses stress the importance of checking tyres as part of regular pre-ride inspections.

Adequate tread depth is needed for grip, essential for effective braking and steering, and for traction in tricky conditions. Also

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check for damage such as nails or fence staples which have penetrated, or cuts caused by stones. Sidewalls should be checked for bulges or cuts, which might have been caused by impact or overloading and, at the same time, check that no grass, mud or twigs have become trapped between the rim edge and tyre, which could cause a leak.

Correct tyre pressures are essential to get the best from the

machine but there is often a tendency for users to over-inflate, removing the characteristic sidewall bulge, so that they ‘look right’, rather than setting them to the pressure recommended.

The Honda operator’s manual lists the correct pressures and, for quick reference, they are also displayed on decals on the machine. The special gauge needed to check the tyre pressures accurately is supplied in the Honda’s toolkit.

If pressures are too low, tyre damage can occur, and handling and performance will be compromised, including higher fuel consumption to overcome the extra rolling resistance.

Pressures too high result in a harder, less comfortable ride, and the reduced ground contact area provides less grip plus increased ground marking. Another consequence is uneven tyre wear, and a sure sign of over-inflation over an extended period is a lack of rubber in a band around the centre of the tread.

Tyres should be replaced in pairs, but where this isn’t possible the new tyre should be of the

same make, type and size as the one opposite, and it is especially important to maintain correct sizes all around on 4wd models. If different types are fitted on the same axle, or if tyres are inflated to different pressures, the ATV can pull constantly to one side, which is tiring for the operator and could be dangerous.

Market leader Honda entered a partnership with the National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs in July 2015, designed to boost its farm safety initiative. This aims to promote ATV safety to the Federation’s 25,000 members and to put every Young Farmers Club in contact with its local Honda main dealer, encouraging interaction between users and the specialists. ATV reliability tends to be so good that it can be taken for granted, resulting in neglected maintenance. However, a few minutes spent on checks each day, including tyre pressures, could help prevent accidents and if users are in need of any advice, the local main dealer will be delighted to assist. www.stalhameng.co.uk

September 2016 | Farming Monthly | 49

| ATV

Fultons Land Rovers take on Fultons Land Rovers, newly appointed Polaris dealers in Cumbria, can boast their own championship quad track for testing.

ituated in the six mile radius between Cockermouth, Workington and Whitehaven, their 120-acre facility encompasses a British Championship level Moto X track, where they also run quad championships, and open farm and moorland. As independent Land Rover dealers, much of their custom comes from the rural hill farms of the area so the fit with Polaris is ideal.

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Brian Fulton first began repairing 4x4s and agricultural tractors in 1975. The business grew when Malcolm and Keith Fulton joined their father in 1983 and, after serving their time as vehicle mechanics with the dealership they took it over in 1997. Continued expansion saw the introduction of more vehicle sales, MOT testing, parts and workshop with an accident and body repair service.

“We’re excited to become Polaris dealers,” says Malcolm, “we have everything on site to provide

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Polaris

customers with the complete 4x4 experience. With Polaris we can offer a full range of Polaris quads and side by sides and supply our customers with the additional service for their off-road ATV needs.” Fultons have a wide range of products available for demonstration, from the petrol and diesel-powered Rangers to the Sportsman 450 and 570 UTE, the latter specifically designed for the type of farming in the area. Richard Coleby, Polaris’ District Manager, adds: “Fultons’ experience, their

agricultural background and, of course, their off-road track offers their customers the perfect proving ground for Polaris.” Fultons can be contacted on 01946 861312, www.fultonslandrovers.co.uk

“We have everything on site to provide customers with the complete 4x4 experience”

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| Motors

MTC Great Wall Cambridgeshire Tel: 01733 309782 www.mtcars.co.uk

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Great Wall Bath Somerset Tel: 01225 473014 www.bathhonda.co.uk

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| Motors

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| Motors

New Discovery is coming....

First sight of Land Rover’s new full-sized, seven-seat SUV.

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he new Discovery embodies Land Rover’s drive to go Above and Beyond, combining British desirability with an unstoppable spirit of adventure.

Gerry McGovern, Land

Rover’s Chief Design Officer, said: “New Discovery redefines the large SUV. Land Rover’s design and engineering teams have revolutionised the Discovery DNA to create a highly desirable, extremely versatile and hugely capable premium SUV.”

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More news on the new Discovery in next month’s edition...

Fans and customers can register their interest at www.landrover.co.uk

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| Motors

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

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

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

WHITE HORSE MOTORS Devon 01392 811 581 www.whitehorsemotors.co.uk

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

DAVID TAYLOR GARAGES LTD Gwent 01873 810 304 www.holdcroft-isuzu.co.uk

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

VALE MOTORS Somerset 01963 834 484 www.valemotors-isuzu.co.uk

WINCHESTER MOTOR CO. Hampshire 01962 866 331 www.winchestermotorgroup.co.uk

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

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

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

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

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Guy Salmon Knutsford

Kentdale Kendal

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

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

Barretts Ashford

Duckworth Land Rover, Boston

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

01205 449758, www.duckworthlandrover.co.uk

Barretts Canterbury

Duckworth Land Rover, Market Rasen

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

01673 799393, www.duckworthlandrover.co.uk

Rybrook Huddersfield Land Rover

Conwy Land Rover

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

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

Rybrook Copley Land Rover

Stafford Land Rover

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

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

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

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

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September 2016 | Farming Monthly | 57

| Motors

The new ŠKODA KODIAK At 4.70 m long and with up to seven seats and the largest boot in its class, the ŠKODA Kodiaq is the brand’s first large SUV. From early 2017,ŠKODA’s latest model will showcase all of the brand’s strengths: characterful design, extraordinary interior space and innovative technology. ith the ŠKODA Kodiaq, we are striking out in a new direction and opening up new markets,” says ŠKODA CEO Bernhard Maier.

“With our first large SUV, we are conquering a new segment for the brand – and new customer groups. Our new addition to the ŠKODA model range is truly as strong as a bear: it makes the brand even more attractive thanks to its concept, striking design and as the first ŠKODA that has the option of always being online and thereby offering more comfort, safety and real-time information.The ŠKODA Kodiaq is at the forefront of ŠKODA’s extensive SUV campaign.” ŠKODA Board Member for Technical Development, Christian Strube, added, “The ŠKODA Kodiaq offers all of our brand’s strengths: well-thought-out functionality, superior interior space and excellent value for money. The largest boot compared to the competition and the optional third row of seats alone make our new SUV the ideal companion for day-to-day demands. And when it comes to driver assistance systems, infotainment and connectivity, the ŠKODA Kodiaq proves ŠKODA’s innovative capabilities, offering the

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technology of higher classes and therefore putting itself at the top of its segment.”

Boot With a volume of 720 to 2,065 l (5-seater with the rear seats folded down), the ŠKODA Kodiaq offers the largest boot within its class and if the optional folding passenger seat is chosen, the SUV can transport items up to 2.80 m long. An electrically operated tailgate is available, and can (as an optional extra) be opened with the firm’s virtual pedal system. The ŠKODA Kodiaq with the TDI/DSG/4×4 drivetrain can tow a trailer weighing up to 2.5 t with an electrically retractable tow bar.

Engines Five powertrains, two TDI and three TSI engines, make up the engine range at the launch of the ŠKODA Kodiaq. They have capacities of 1.4 and 2.0 l, and power output ranges from 92 kW (125 PS) to 140 kW (190 PS). The diesel and petrol engines feature turbocharged direct injection and fulfil EU6 emission standards. All engines feature a Stop-Start system, brake energy recovery and a powerful thermomanagement system, contributing to low consumption.

The 2.0 TDI is available in two versions. The first version generates 110 kW (150 PS) and 340 Nm. The top-of-the-range

58 | Farming Monthly | September 2016

version delivers 140 kW (190 PS) and 400 Nm. On average, the entry-level TDI consumes 5.0 l of diesel (56.5 mpg and 131 g CO2/km) per 100 km. The most powerful diesel engine accelerates the large SUV from 0-100 km/h in 8.6 s and reaches a top speed of up to 130 mph.

The range of petrol engines consists of two 1.4 TSI engines and one 2.0 TSI. Transmission The ŠKODA Kodiaq is available with various transmission technologies. Depending on the engine, there is a 6-speed manual gearbox or DSG transmissions with six or seven speeds.

The new 7-speed dual-clutch transmission is making its debut in a ŠKODA and has been designed for powerful engines with torque of up to 600 Nm. The DSG transmission is very compact and provides quick and comfortable gear changes.

The all-wheel-drive system with electronic control is available for most engine variants. It delivers a big increase in traction, stability and driving safety – even off-road.

The centrepiece of the all-wheel drive is an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch which works intelligently and quickly. The control unit constantly calculates the ideal driving torque for the rear axle; loss of traction is virtually eliminated due to a control system that is dependent on driving status and when in overrun or at low load, drive is via the front axle, which saves fuel.

Chassis The MacPherson front struts consist partially of aluminium; the steel four-link rear axle absorbs the longitudinal and transverse forces separately. The power steering,

using an efficient electromechanical drive, ensures exact contact with the road and works in close harmony with several assistance systems in the ŠKODA Kodiaq.

The brakes – with large ventilated brake discs at the front – are strong and stable. When cornering quickly, the electronic differential lock XDS+, which is a function of the Electronic Stability Control (ESC), makes handling even smoother and safer for both front- and all-wheel drive.

As an optional extra, ŠKODA is making Driving Mode Select available in its large SUV. It allows the driver to adjust the operation of the engine and DSG management, power steering, air conditioning and other systems in Normal, Eco, Sport and Individual modes. The all-wheel-drive versions also offer Snow mode, which adapts the operation of the ABS, ASR and ACC (if fitted) systems, as well as the engine management and electronically controlled, all-wheel, multi-plate clutch to slippery road conditions.

Adaptive Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) is also available as an option, and is integrated into Driving Mode Select. Using DCC, the driver can choose between Comfort, Normal or Sport modes.

Off-road mode can be selected by the simple touch of a button.

Here, the chassis, engine management and brakes adjust their operation specifically to rough terrain. This mainly involves pulling away, traction and deceleration. In off-road mode, Hill Descent Assist helps the driver to safely master driving downhill over rough terrain by braking appropriately.

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| Motors

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September 2016 | Farming Monthly | 59

| Motors

Forester Special Edition introduced To further celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Subaru Boxer engine, Subaru are pleased to announce the introduction of the Forester Special Edition. n sale from the 1st September, 100 units will be produced and will be priced at £29,995 for the petrol Lineartronic and £31,495 for the diesel Lineartronic.

Based on the XC Premium

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model, the Special Edition model comes with £1,500 of additional equipment at no extra cost. Both models come with Subaru’s comprehensive five-year, 100,000mile warranty.

Unique equipment for the Forester Special Edition includes Hunter Green Metallic Paint, front,

side and rear under guards, wheel arch extensions and stainless steel cargo step panel as well as Special Edition brown leather seats with brown leather interior door grips, centre armrest and centre panel uprights.

Other equipment on the Forester Special Edition includes

Subaru Starlink; a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment, connectivity and navigation system, Hill Descent Control (HDC), X-Mode system, which intelligently manages the car’s power and torque, brakes and drivetrain to maintain traction on even the most slippery surfaces.

MTC Subaru

Perkins

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

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

Cambridge Subaru

Pinkstones Subaru

Colin Appleyard Cars

Colin Appleyard Cars

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

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

West Yorkshire 01484 514954 www.colinappleyard.com/subaru

Greater Manchester 0161 330 5148 www.colinappleyard.com/subaru

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| Motors

New engines and advanced technology for 2017 Range Rover Sport Land Rover introduces its most efficient Range Rover Sport ever. For 2017, the latest Range Rover Sport features an efficient Ingenium powertrain, upgraded infotainment system with connectivity and wifi capability, innovative new semiautonomous driving connected technologies and greater scope for personalisation. t 2017 Model Year, Range Rover Sport will debut the new 2.0-litre four-cylinder Ingenium diesel engine, manufactured at Jaguar Land Rover’s own engine plant in Wolverhampton. Already available on both Discovery Sport and Range Rover Evoque models, Ingenium is Jaguar Land Rover’s new breed of engine designed for effortless performance, refinement and efficiency. Its advanced technology and all-aluminium construction contribute to impressive fuel consumption (45.6mpg) and CO2 emissions (164g/km) and a 0-60 time of 8.0 seconds (manufacturer’s estimated data).

UK customers will also have the option of specifying Jaguar Land Rover's 3.0-litre V6 supercharged petrol engine from 2017 Model Year. The supercharged V6 achieves 340HP and 450Nm of torque combined with CO2 emissions of 243g/km. Effortless acceleration and power delivery produces a 0-60 time of 7.1s.

In addition to new engine technology, Land Rover introduces a series of semi-autonomous driving technologies to Range Rover Sport.

Advanced Tow Assist, Blind Spot Assist and Intelligent Speed Limiter work alongside existing features to elevate driver aids to an even greater level of convenience and safety.

Peerless all-terrain capability remains a cornerstone of the Range Rover family and the 2017 Model Year Range Rover Sport includes a

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selection of new features. Low Traction Launch makes it easier for drivers to pull away on lowgrip surfaces while the updated 4x4i menu presents all the necessary vehicle information when tackling challenging terrain.

The enlarged dual-view touchscreen features a new 10-inch display for greater ease-of-use and clarity and features tablet-style pinch and zoom orientation. This is powered by Land Rover’s market-leading InControl Touch Pro technology, making this the most connected Range Rover Sport to date.

Jeremy Hicks, Managing Director, Jaguar Land Rover UK, said: “Our customers love Range Rover Sport and for 17 Model Year it gets even better. It’s brimming with exciting technology for even better on and off-road driving; it has next-generation infotainment and advanced safety features as standard, better economy and running costs, and all for under £60,000.”

2017 Range Rover Sport engine options in more detail: The 2017 Model Year Range Rover Sport is the first full-sized Land Rover SUV to feature a four-cylinder diesel engine. The 2.0-litre SD4 Ingenium produces 240HP and 500Nm of torque, and is capable of returning 45.6mpg on the EU combined cycle with emissions of 164g/km (manufacturer’s estimated data).

The introduction of a second turbocharger to the Ingenium engine has been significant in retaining the impressive power output and strong torque characteristics familiar to Range

Rover Sport customers. The advanced engine is the first Jaguar Land Rover-built unit to feature series sequential turbo technology.

Vehicles fitted with the new engine will be distinguished by a single twin-exhaust configuration. Other derivatives retain the existing set-up, with a single exhaust on each side of the rear bumper.

“Our customers love Range Rover Sport and for 17 Model Year it gets even better” Elsewhere in the range, the new 3.0-litre V6 supercharged engine features lightweight allaluminium construction. Combining supercharging with direct-injection and variable intake, and incorporating exhaust valve timing, this engine delivers exceptional throttle response, linear power delivery and a unique soundtrack. A single balancer shaft enhances smooth-running and refinement befitting the Range Rover badge.

Gerry McGovern, Land Rover’s Chief Design Officer, said: “Range Rover Sport is the ultimate performance SUV and the latest model enhances its luxury status and desirability. The design developments sit seamlessly alongside innovative new technologies, making Range Rover Sport more composed, sustainable and relevant than ever.”

September 2016 | Farming Monthly | 61

| Motors

SsangYong creates new class of car - the ‘SUV-Estate’ - as Tivoli goes on sale The Tivoli XLV - an extended body model of the already popular SsangYong Tivoli compact SUV, is now on sale. he SUV market has seen rapid growth and our new Tivoli launched last year is already the best-selling model launched by SsangYong,” said Paul Williams, CEO of SsangYong Motor UK. “Some 100,000 have now been sold around the world.

“Tivoli has been praised universally for meeting a number of customer requirements, not least its ability to carry five adults in comfort, and for having one of the largest boot capacities in its class.

“Now SsangYong has gone a step further by launching an extended car to provide even more carrying capacity and practicality, and we believe that this will enable us to compete with SUVs such as the Nissan Qashqai, but also station wagon style cars like the MINI Clubman, Skoda Yeti & Roomster and other small estates."

Prices start from just £18,250 for the Tivoli XLV 1.6 diesel manual 2WD – that’s just £1,000 more than for the equivalent Tivoli ELX £19,250 with automatic transmission, £19,500 for theTivoli XLV 1.6 diesel manual 4x4, and £20,500 for the 4x4 with automatic.

Sharing the same platform and 2,600mm wheelbase as the Tivoli, the XLV features a lengthened body from behind the C pillar, an increase of 238mm over the standard car, expanding the load capacity to a huge 720 cubic litres of space. Meanwhile, the styling cues that distinguish Tivoli are retained, including its harmoniously fused SUV body design, sports coupé look and floating roofline.

Designed to offer a multi-role, multi-function solution to a wide range of customers, Tivoli XLV provides just the versatility needed to meet

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individual lifestyles: family car for lugging baby buggies and cots for small children, bikes and golf clubs for the sports-minded, and materials or business equipment during the working week.

Passenger safety has been a top priority for this car, and comes with seven airbags including front, side and curtain airbags plus a driver’s knee airbag, multi-function ESP (Electronic Stability Program), Active Rollover Protection, Brake Assist, Hill Start Assist and ESS (Emergency Stop Signal), a tyre pressure monitoring system and a warning reminder on all five seat belt positions.

Tivoli XLV is offered with a Euro 6 compliant 1.6 litre diesel engine, and matched with the option of a 6-speed manual transmission or 6speed Aisin automatic, two-wheel drive or 4x4.

The newly developed 1.6 litre e-XDi160 diesel engine produces 115ps/3,400-4,000rpm max power with 300Nm/1,500-2,500rpm, and delivers a smooth, progressive and powerful driving experience. It also features a fifth generation E-VGT turbocharger which maximises performance especially in the midlow speed range so it is fun and responsive to drive. With manual transmission there’s also ISG (stop/start) to meet the demand for low CO2 emission levels.

The 1.6 litre diesel engine achieves a CO2 emission level of just 117g/km (two-wheel drive, manual transmission with Stop/Start), and economy of up to 62.8mpg on the Combined cycle.

Intelligent four-wheel drive The SsangYong DNA is all about 4x4, and the Tivoli XLV draws on this by offering the option of an intelligent 4-wheel drive system.

The electronically controlled on-demand

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system distributes power to front and rear drive shafts, and automatically adjusts to the road surface and driving conditions to optimise performance.

“SsangYong has gone a step further by launching an extended car to provide even more carrying capacity and practicality”

In normal driving, the drive system distributes all power to the front wheels to enhance fuel efficiency, and automatically adapts to 4-wheel drive in snow or wet slippery conditions, by diverting power to the rear wheels as well to ensure driving stability. For increased stability and reassurance, particularly when driving on a hill or slope, the 4-wheel drive operates with Hill Start Assist which helps by delivering power to any wheels that are spinning. And for optimised braking performance, ESP and ABS also control the 4x4 system for greater safety.

With a 167mm ground clearance, approach angle of 20.0 degrees, 20.8 degree departure angle, and 17.0 degree ramp angle, a highly competent off-road capability is assured.

Comprehensively equipped, the Tivoli XLV features digital-dual zone automatic air conditioning, an infotainment system with RDS radio, 7” high-resolution touch screen, USB/AUX port, iPod & Bluetooth connectivity, Tom-Tom navigation and rear view camera.

There is cruise control, parking sensors front and rear, rain sensing wipers, automatic headlight activation and stylish roof rails.

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