Contents. Energy Now Expo What’s on and who’s going?
MartFinder Sales from auction marts across the UK & Ireland
26 Vicon Crop Care Machine testing day with Agriplus
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12 Favourite Pics
Come on in...
06 07 09
News and stories from Farmland. Dairy UK on Brexit Speech
More News. Sheep rescuer left devestated after dog attack. Rural crime SMS service
High Hopes for 2017 from Father and Farmer Will Evans
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22 11 14 18
hat’s On?- More dates for W the farming diary including Grassland & Muck
ant the latest advice on W Energy Storage? Visit the Energy Now Expo Searching for common ground in Oxford. Future Farmer & Emma Lander
26 22 30
Columns from Emma Lander, Ethan Kinney & Gareth Wyn Jones. artFinder - Featured M listings from Penrith, Mitchells & Clitheroe ractical Storage solutions P with Gardensite.co.uk
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hank you for reading Farmland Magazine. It’s been a fantastic festive period but i’m sure like everyone you are glad to be back at it. It has been a great month having succesfully renewed a number of event media partnerships and confirmed a whole new network of Auction Markets it means we are available in more places than ever before.
lookout for talented writers to share their voice with our readers
We are constantly working hard to make Farmland the best it can be, so with this we are always on the
We hope you enjoy reading and we wish everyone a happy and healthly 2017.
Whether you’re a seasoned profesional blogger or just share a passion for British Farming & Agriculture we want to hear from you. Submit your idea by email in the first instance using mail@ farmlandpress.com and one of our team will get in touch.
contributors. Emily Hickman. 21 year old Emily grew up in North Wales and is currently a studying a Bsc in Agriculture at Harper Adams University. Emily runs her own blog ‘Life and the cows’ Tweet @Lifeandthecows
Sarah Milne. The Scottish Dairy Hub acts as a signposting service connecting best sources of advice and training to improve dairy farm competitiveness, technical efficiency, sustainability and growth. @andersonmilne
Chris McCullough. Chris is a multimedia journalist who has worked in the industry for 15 years. Although based in Northern Ireland, Chris has enjoyed a thrilling career travelling the globe for the best farming news & stories.
Emma Lander. Emma Lander is better known as Farmers Wife & Mummy, she runs one of the UK’s top food, parenting, farming & lifestyle blogs and contributes regulary to Farmland Magazine. Tweet @Emmalander2
Contacts. R.A.B.I www.rabi.org.uk AHDB www.ahdb.org.uk DEFRA www.gov.uk FCN www.fcn.org.uk RSABI www.rsabi.org.uk
NFU ONLINE www.nfuonline.com FARMING ADVICE SERVICE farmingadviceservice.org.uk SCOTTISH DAIRY HUB scottishdairyhub.org.uk FOOD STANDARDS www.food.gov.uk TENANT FARMERS (TFA) www.tfa.org.uk LEAF www.leafuk.org
NATIONAL SHEEP ASSOC www.nationalsheep.org RURAL PAYMENTS AGENCY www.rpa.gov.uk TENANT FARMERS (Scotland) www.tfascotland.org.uk COUNTRYSIDE ALLIANCE countryside-alliance.org.uk ADDINGTON FUND www.addingtonfund.org.uk FARMLAND PRESS mail@farmlandpress.com
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REASEHEATH COLLEGE www.reaseheath.ac.uk SCOTLANDS RURAL COLLEGE www.sruc.ac.uk NEWTON RIGG COLLEGE www.newtonrigg.ac.uk ROYAL AGRICULTURAL UNI www.rau.ac.uk MYERSCOUGH COLLEGE www.myerscough.ac.uk HARPER ADAMS UNIVERSITY www.harper-adams.ac.uk
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inside this
issue.
social. let’s get
January - Feb 2017
Farming News.
08.
Outlook for 2017 with Fergus Ewing MSP. Ian Duncan on CAP Payments. Closing the gate on Rural Crime with Durham Constabulary.
top tweets “Good to have some clarity on #Brexit but lots of Qs arising from “acquis” point “
@julierobinson_
“You’ll never walk alone...not when you have a dog anyway“
Agri Life.
@Amandaowen8
Ups and Downs - My training in farming and gardening at the Biodynamic Agricultural College plus much more.
17.
“Our veggies never get wasted! Just one happy little calf! #viewsfromthefarm #freshfromourfields”
@DartsFarm
01. Request a printed copy - simply send your name, address and postcode to mail@farmlandpress.com with Request Magazine as the subject
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NEXT time. 09. Preparing for Market 13. Brexit Impact on the Ground 19. Wellies - Tested by REAL Farmers 23. Spring Events 26. Why i diversified 28. Detecting on Farmland 30. Hot Livestock Sales 33. See you next time
Early Grass Supply. Increasing net profit by £2.20 per cow using soil nitrogen. Expert advice from Yara UK.
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“Trying to do a serious interview about the dairy sector - whilst being licked to within an inch of my life by these two reprobates!”
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32.
Farmers Voice. It’s a New Year New Start for our columnist Emma Lander. We’re discussing the bird ban with Emily Hickman, Ben Eagle on the Oxford Farming Conferences and Will Evans has high hopes for the year ahead.
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Farmland News The latest news and stories - Read it as it happens at www.farmlandmagazine.com
NEW TRACTOR REGISTRATIONS DOWN
TOP STORY
@FARMLANDUK
The number of newly registered Agricultural tractors in 2016 has shown a 2.2% decline than the previous year.
UFU SLURRY RED TAPE WARNING
The Ulster Farmers’ Union is reminding farmers that by the end of January they must submit forms to NIEA showing the movement of organic manures off their farm.
TACKLING MOBILE ‘NOT SPOTS’
Dairy UK Statement on PM Speech Dr Judith Bryans on Prime Ministers speech on Brexit Negotiations.
Keeping it brief
The UK Government and Ofcom hosted a summit on Thursday 12 January bringing together mobile phone operators, politicians and people affected by poor mobile phone coverage to find a solution to the problem in Wales.
FARMERS REMINDED TO CHECK NVZ ZONES
Farmers are urged to check NVZ designations. Check if your land is in an NVZ on the Environment Agency’s What’s In Your Backyard mapping tool.
C
ommenting on the Prime Minister’s speech on the Brexit negotiations, Dr Judith Bryans, Chief Executive of Dairy UK, said: Today, the Prime Minister lifted some of the uncertainty created by the Brexit referendum, bringing some long-awaited clarity on the Government’s approach to a number of key Brexit issues. Although we welcome the Government’s commitment to maintain a robust trading relationship with the EU, we have significant concerns about the UK’s prospects outside the Single Market and without certain elements of the EU Customs Union. With 80% of UK dairy exports currently going to EU countries, any
disruption to current agreements would have an extensive and costly impact on our industry. We support the Government’s commitment to put in place a strong, swift and effective transitional process and urge them to avoid any kind of interruption to current trade agreements with EU countries or the creation of counterproductive tariff or non-tariff barriers. What we absolutely cannot see is a fall back to WTO default terms as the tariffs within WTO arrangements would have disastrous consequences for dairy trade. In addition to uninterrupted access to the EU market, our priority for the UK dairy industry is to avoid the creation of non-tariff barriers and to retain access to productive labour.
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Commenting on the issue of Northern Ireland’s border with the Republic of Ireland, Dr Bryans added: We welcome the Prime Minister’s decision to protect the Common Travel Area with the Republic of Ireland. The Northern Ireland dairy industry works hand in hand with the Irish dairy industry with common practices developed to improve efficiency and add value throughout the dairy supply chain.” She concluded: We pledge to give the Government our input to help make Brexit arrangements a success for the dairy industry and look forward to contributing to their work in his regard.”
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The Farming Advice Services aim is to help farms get to meet and comprehend the requirements for Cross Compliance, Greening and European Directives.
Sheep rescuer devastated after dog attack POULTRY CRIME
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Sheep rescuer has spoken of her devastation after her flock was attacked by an unaccompanied dog. Tina Norvall from Fareham, Hampshire was alerted to the attack which left 3 sheep dead and more than 12 injured by a passer by. Tina said “I’ve been rescuing for 7 years now and
such as water protection and sustainable pesticide use. The FAS is a FREE to use service. Register for FREE updates on 03000 200 301 or by emailing
bookings@farmingadviceservice. org.uk and using ‘Register for newsletter’ in the subject.
New text number launched to combat rural crime
F
ollwing a large livestock theft in the Radstock, Avon and Somerset Constabulary rural crime team have launched a new text number. The new service will allow the public to text information directly to the Team, who will be able to assess and action the intelligence quickly and efficiently. Inspector Joanna Mines, from the Rural Crime Team in Somerset, said: "We are trialling the number for three months. Many people who belong to our FarmWatch scheme had said they wanted a facility to be able to pass on information and respond to messages quickly, and this new number will allow that. She added "We want to hear from anyone who has information
about any suspicious or potentially criminal activity in their area, for example - details of people/vehicles seen behaving suspiciously, potentially stolen goods or livestock being offered for sale either to the public or at markets, sightings of stolen vehicles we might put out an alert for. Anyone can use the number f they have information about rural or agricultural crime in their area The new number is 81819, please text any information you believe could either help prevent or detect a crime in your area., the service won't be monitored 24/7 so anything which requires an immediate police attendance please dial 999.
The attack left 3 sheep dead and more than a dozen injured.
LAST MONTH IN SHORT Muller announce £60million restructure
The Dairy giant has confirmed that it will proceed with plans to invest £60m to upgrade its network of fresh milk and ingredients dairies in Britain, creating up to 180 jobs.
Bursary welcomes public to Yorkshire Farms
they are all very friendly and well handled sheep. This has been devastating to me, more so as I lost one of the first I took in today. I love dogs, I have 7 of my own but none of them go near my sheep like this. The remaining sheep are all exhausted and were in shock so I fear I may lose more because of this. She added “There were more photos of the injuries but they are too horrific to share”
Food Vouchers to help post Brexit Farmers? The Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group have set out a proposal suggesting that families with a low income could receive food vouchers from the government as part of a sustainable food scheme. Farmers involved would be able to produce food allowing them to restore soil and rebuild natural capital alongside making a living.
Dog owners are reminded to keep your dog on a lead especially when around livestock.
work seen
Updates. . .
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The Yorkshire Agricultural Society is to offer a 50% bursary for to any farmer from the county wishing to attend a Countryside Educational Visits Accreditation Scheme (CEVAS) course. Charitable Activities Manager, Liz Hudson, said, “Educating the general public about where their food comes from and the farming industry is a vital part of the work of the YAS.
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HIGH W
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HOPES L
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hristmas and New Year have been and gone, and it’s already mid-January. A time to look forward to the year ahead; but what does it have in store for all of us involved in British agriculture, and what are our hopes for the coming months? Firstly I hope that the growing problem with the H5N1 virus, commonly known as Bird Flu is soon under control. Both the poultry industry and DEFRA are taking it extremely seriously and seem to be handling the situation with competence. Though as I drive around the countryside I’ve seen many ‘backyard’ flocks still outside. I don’t know if this is due to ignorance of the situation, or apathy, but it absolutely must be cracked down on. I believe that heavy fines and/or prison sentences are being threatened
FOR V
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now against people who don’t keep their hens shut up, and I’m 100% behind this. Ignorance isn’t an excuse, and people’s livelihoods are at stake. I hope for my dairy farming friends and neighbours that the milk price keeps heading upwards. God knows it needs to. And similarly I hope that cereal prices continue to rise. We simply can’t keep on growing them for the prices we’ve received the last few years, and certainly not on land rented on FBT’s. I’m sure I’m not the only one who’s sick of hearing about it, but this year’s all about the Brexit isn’t it. Whether you voted for it or not, it’s happening and we as an industry are going to have to live with the consequences. I have to confess that I have little to no faith in our politicians to look after our interests in agriculture, and some of the rhetoric I’ve heard from the likes of Andrea Leadsom sounds extremely hollow indeed to me. I sincerely
About Will Evans, a 38 year old father of 4, produces beef cattle, arable crops & free range eggs on his family’s farm near Wrexham.
@Willpenrievans
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hope that I’m wrong, but I fear for the future of many smaller family farms after brexit, especially tenants. If subsidies are greatly removed or reduced, as they seem certain to be, I think we’ll see many unable to survive in the industry. Big changes are certainly coming, but I’m determined that our business will weather the storm. And lastly, I don’t know about other parts of the country, but in this area we could do with some rain. The river has been very low all winter, and I worry about the crops moving forward into Spring. I was chatting to someone who works for the environment agency yesterday, and he told me that parts of the country have had the driest year in a century, and I can well believe it. Hopefully we’ll get some soon. Though not too much please Mother Nature, just enough. Us farmers are hard to please eh? Will.
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FERGUS EWING MSP FERGUSEWING.COM | @FERGUSEWING
PROTECTING OUR RURAL ECONOMY Cabinet Secretary for Rural and Connectivity Fergus
Economy Ewing.
The start of a new year gives a good opportunity to think about what lies ahead and what our priorities for the coming weeks and months should be. The most significant task on my to-do list for 2017 is protecting the interests of our rural economy and farming and food production industries following the Brexit vote, which is the biggest threat to Scotland’s rural economy in at least a generation. The First Minister has now published a paper called Scotland’s Place in Europe. At its heart are proposals to keep Scotland, and preferably the whole of the UK, in the European Single Market in all its aspects – including trade, movement of people and protection of rights. So what does that mean for farmers in Scotland? This proposal would see the development of a new strategy to help deliver a long term, sustainable, future for farming and food production to fuel growth in the rural economy, which is essential given the UK Government’s plans to remove us from the EU Common Agricultural Policy and the funding it brings to our rural communities.
Your Views
We are clear that the Scottish Government must retain its power to manage policy and determine funding levels for devolved areas such as agriculture and rural policy.
That is why we expect current EU powers in these areas – which are already devolved to Holyrood – to come directly to Scotland. There will also have to be a negotiation with the UK Government about maintaining a level of funding for agriculture in Scotland at least equivalent to current levels. We know how crucial this is. We will also press the UK government to negotiate for tariff-free access to the Single Market for trade in agricultural products – the exclusion of which is one of the drawbacks of the current EEA terms. I’ll also be continuing my work to drive forward the rural economy, with further sector specific summits to come in early 2017 and progress to be made on the outcomes of others. I’m also working hard to put 2016 CAP payments on a better footing. The loan scheme is providing financial security in the meantime with over 12,000 farmers and crofters having now received 80% of their CAP entitlement, putting over £250 million into the rural economy. So while it promises to be an eventful year for those involved in farming and food production in Scotland, I can assure readers that this Scottish Government is committed to working to get the best possible deal for Scotland and protecting the interests of our rural economy and our farmers and crofters.
The most significant task on my to-do list for 2017 is protecting the interests of our rural economy and farming and food
“One of the features of the collective shocks which have ripped through our farming industry during 2016, has been the speed with which our farming unions have sprung into positive opportunity mode. I doubt they believe Ministers, given Westminster’s record where farming is concerned. Farmers are split on the Brexit issue so guess the only way to please all members is to focus on positives, real or imagined. Whether in or out of the EU, the lifespan of Direct Payments was limited anyway. We’ve had 10 years to prepare but too few have. In Scotland, we have a fast growing Food and Drink industry and a supportive government. We’re well on our way to building a circular economy, and our poor soils and weather can be mitigated through an interlinked and diverse, rural economy under our Climate Change Framework. Expansion isn’t the only route to efficient, profitable farming. Building closer consumer relations and loyalty will be critical given Westminster’s long held policy to import food. It doesn’t need the brain of a neuroscientist to work out what Trade Deals with NZ and Australia might mean for our sheep industry. Building local food systems, collaborating to shorten the food chain. It’s time to stop talking and start doing something about it. When it all comes down to it the need for these changes was always there. Brexit just focuses the mind more urgently on them.” Daye Tucker @Ruralleader
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IAN DUNCAN MEP IANDUNCAN.ORG.UK | @IANDUNCANMEP
The vote to leave the European Union surprised many and the ramifications of BREXIT will be felt long past the triggering of Article 50 in March. Whilst much of the focus has been upon freedom of movement, the single market and future trading relationships, a rather large elephant in the room is the Common Agricultural Policy, or CAP. At 40 percent of the annual Budget, the CAP is the single largest component of what the EU spends money on. Farmers across the UK rely on CAP payments, but in recent years various administrations have struggled with the complexity of how to make them, and importantly, how to make them on time. I represent Scotland, and the past two payment windows have been nothing short of a catastrophe for farmers. In 2015/16 the Scottish Government bungled the operation so badly they had to go cap in hand to the EU to avoid colossal fines. Farmers were kept in the dark for months, as the Scottish Government broke pledge after pledge to pay. At the heart of the problem was the Scottish Government’s new £200million computer system for payments. The problem? The computer system didn’t (doesn’t?) work, and officials
had to resort to processing applications manually. Eventually the Scottish Government began a system of loans, offering farmers brief respite. However, there were further problems ahead when the Scottish Government overpaid the loans, and then had to ask for money back. As we forge a new relationship with the EU, we must avoid problems of this nature. The EU is undoubtedly bureaucratic and cumbersome, and I have no doubt that red tape contributed to the problems encountered by the Scottish Government. Yet we have to get our own house in order if we are to provide farmers with the vital support they need. Farmers need to bang on the door of the Government and tell Ministers exactly what kind of system will work for them. We have an opportunity to design a system that is fit for purpose, that will not be so complex that it is simply unmanageable, that will guarantee payments on time every time. That will be a key test of the BREXIT process, and one I am sure we will rise to the challenge of.
Crime Focus - The Ongoing Battle. 2016 has been a busy, yet productive year in the on going battle with rural crime. Whilst figures for ‘rural crime’ as a whole have remained fairly level throughout the the year, several niche surges have occurred. Amidst the loss of many high profile names in 2016, came the loss of the legendary Land Rover Defender. The defender has been serving the rural communities of the U.K. for decades. However their popularity appears to have grown within organised crime groups thought the country. Their rugged design and ability to carry a heavy payload has made them the number one must have vehicle for rural criminals. With countless defenders being stolen I have spent a large portion of my time delivering crime prevention advice to the rural community. The one thing I find myself repeating is “take the keys out and hide them somewhere safe”. I’ve attended countless thefts which could have been prevented by simply taking away the keys. We will never be able to prevent every single theft from occurring, but what we can do is make it a lot harder for criminals to steal vehicles. So what our plan for 2017? We are currently working on projects that the public won’t necessarily know are happening, we are out on high visibility patrols, we are using our intelligence to map what’s happening where. However everything we do is for the benefit of the victims of rural crime and rural communities. We can’t do what we do without your help so if you have any information, something doesn’t look right or is out of place or even if you pass us, stop and talk to us. Your are the eyes and ears of our rural communities and you can help us deliver our rural policing vision.
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SC Ross Moralee, Durham Constabulary
@durhamruralsc durham.police.uk
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WHAT’SON? FARMING & AGRICULTURE EVENTS
TO SUBMIT YOUR EVENT CONTACT US
Yorkshire Agricultural Machinery Show
Don't Miss 2017 looks to be a fantastic event packed year. See a full list and booking details by visiting www.farmlandmagazine.com/events
8th February 2017. FREE Tickets, FREE Parking
www.yams.uk.com
MORE AT FARMLANDMAGAZINE.COM/EVENTS
26TH - 28TH FEBRUARY
2017 FARMA Conference'
Held at the Grand Hotel, Bristol, the FARMA conference offers workshops, demonstrations, seminars and more for farm retailers. 50% OFF for FARMA members. Book at www.lammashow.com / 01638 676747
2ND - 4TH FEB 17’
57th Annual Doe Show The UK’s largest agricultural, construction and groundcare dealer show returns . Free Entry, Free Parking & Free Refreshments.
1ST MARCH 2017
Agri Expo
Now in its 6th year. The Agri expo brings together over 180 exhibitors of Machinery, Dealers and manufacturers. The expo is FREE to attend and is held at the Kent County Showground, Maidstone, Kent ME14 3JF
Visit www.ernestdoe.com for full exhibitor info and to book.
See more at www.agri-expo.co.uk
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EVENTS2017
MARCH 17TH - 19TH
11TH MARCH
Shire Horse National Show
Borderway Dairy Expo
Celebrating the history and heritage of the breed. A record number of advance tickets for the show have been sold already so book early.
Showcasing the best quality dairy cattle, the latest developments in dairy farming practice, breeding, genetics, machinery, equipment, technology and more.
Book at shire-horse.org.uk harrisonandhetherington. co.uk
’Photo courtesy of Tracy Muir Photography
8th FEBRUARY 2017
2017 NFU Conference
Save the Date - The next NFU conference is at the ICC in Birmingham.
24 - 25TH MAY
If you can’t make the show, key sessions will be livestreamed at nfuonline.com
Grassland & Muck
Join the debate use #NFU17 on twitter!
Join over 13,000 Farmers and 230 exhibitors and see the latest grass, forage and muck machines in action.
15TH - 16TH FEB
Crop Production in Southern Britain 2017
The two day conference held at Peterborough Arena is the sixth in series and will examine the outlook for future developments in Crop protection and production research and practice. Peterborough Arena, Peterborough. www.aab.org.uk
Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire TIckets from www.grasslandevent. co.uk
ROYSTON, HERTFORDSHIRE DEMO DAY Introducing the Bigger TMK Tree Shear, Extension beam, Original TMK Tree Shear &
SAVE THE DATE. CALF TO CALVING 8th February, Cumbria. Heifer Housing environment.
Other machines.
NSA CENTRAL EARLY GATHERING 26th January NSA Central Region’s biennial winter event Bakewell Market, Derbyshire.
Call 07956 087549
nationalsheep.org.uk
dairy.ahdb.org.uk
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FULL EVENT LIST ONLINE AT FARMLANDMAGAZINE.COM
ENERGY NOW
ENERGY AND RENEWABLES
Over 200 exhibitors to attend including:
DO YOU WANT THE LATEST FACTS ON ENERGY STORAGE? Energy storage and ‘behind the meter’ optimisation are the new buzz words for farmers wanting to get the most from renewable energy initiatives as the industry matures, say experts. Farmers looking for advice on current opportunities should not miss the Energy Now Expo, on February 8 & 9, at the Telford International Centre. According to James Hoare, from energy consultant, LHW Partnership, a reduction in energy storage equipment costs, and saturated grid capacity for export are rapidly accelerating the ‘behind the meter’ storage market. “And to maximise storage technologies on a domestic scale, farmers need to fully understand their ‘energy load profile’ which means being aware of peak times of use as well as overall use,” says James. “Therefore, it’s recommended to talk to an expert and carry out an audit in order to get the best return on investment.” Farmers will be able to access the latest information on storage and other innovative technologies at the Expo, and with over 200 exhibitors, representing all the renewable energy sectors, as well as educational bodies, industry associations and business support services, any queries you have about renewable installations on the farm won’t go unanswered. The multi-stream conference sessions cover all renewable energy types, and include energy specific panels discussing hot industry topics. Each session will kick off with a keynote presentation followed by the panel debate, with a change for the audience to get involved. Speakers include NFU renewables and climate change advisor Jonathan Scurlock, Adam Simms from the National Grid, Peter Robinson from Carter Jonas and Mark Newton, Partner at Fisher German To register for the event free of charge visit www.energynowexpo.co.uk or call 01293 854 405.
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BRITWIND LTD, STAND 15. Britwind, part of the Ecotricity Group believe that through intelligent design, innovation and a re-education of the market there is a real opportunity for small wind to flourish in a low Feed-inTariff world. We will be exhibiting our new H15 - the UK’s most cost effective small wind turbine.
Fisher German Stand 66 Fisher German has been introducing renewable energy projects to clients for many years. Our experts can help with feasibility studies, technology recommendations and financial assistance, as well as ongoing project management.
MCCOUNTRY SERVICES.CO.UK PASTURE, PADDOCK & FIELD MAINTAINENCE. T: 01933 315087
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LEARN MORE ABOUT SOIL & SLURRY ANALYSIS AT YARA.CO.UK EARLY GRASS SUPPLY Early grass is very valuable resource and for every extra day you can have cows out at grass in the spring it increases net profit by £2.20 per cow (Teagasc, 2016). To achieve this we need to have an adequate supply of soil Nitrogen for when grass growth begins, and we should try and get cows out to graze ASAP. This early Nitrogen is the most cost effective Nitrogen of the year. 01 Cattle slurry (2,500 gallons/acre) should be applied on the third of the paddocks with the lowest covers or on silage ground with low K indexes. Remember N utilisation in slurry is highest in spring and is further increased if applied by trailing shoe or shallow injection. Make sure you have your soil samples taken before application. Aim to apply 30 kg/ha (24 units/acre) of Nitrogen to the remaining paddocks with highest covers. A choice must be made on the form of N for this first N application. AN is the most reliable and the Nitrate portion is ready for immediate uptake by grass and the remaining Ammonium-N fraction is stable and is not prone to leaching or ammonia loss through volatilisation. Urea needs to be applied two weeks before growth begins and is prone to Ammonia-N loss unless rainfall (5mm) follows application. Urea applied in cold dry weather will have significant Ammonia-N loss as there will be enough moisture to initiate the chemical process which drives this N loss.
PHILIP COSGRAVE
Article by Philip Cosgrave, Grassland Agronomist Yara’s knowledge, products and solutions helps grow businesses profitability for farmers, distributors and industrial customers worldwide. @Yara_UK
Yara_UK
yara.co.uk
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BIRD BAN NOT ONLY WISE BUT NECESSARY
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Prevention Zones in place across GB will remain in place until 28 February 2017. t seems that every other month or so a new grey cloud will appear out of nowhere, and shadow a sector of agriculture for a short while before disappearing almost as quickly as it came. Bird flu is the latest threat to darken the poultry industry, and a UK outbreak towards the end of last year has seen DEFRA place a short term ban on bird shows and live bird auctions.
The government’s decision to put a temporary ban on bird shows and auctions to reduce the threat of the spread of Avian Influenza is not just wise, but necessary. Whilst the majority of these bird shows and auctions are attended by rare breed specialists, the transmission of Avian Influenza should be prevented at all levels of poultry production after cases of the disease were confirmed in Louth towards the end of last year. Failing to comply with the regulation can see producers fined and given prison sentences, but moral obligations should be reason enough for producers to keep birds at home. In such a close knit and vertically integrated industry it is easy to ruffle tail feathers and for disease to spread rapidly. It would be effortless for the
disease to spread between birds at shows and auctions, and what started as a contained outbreak in Louth could easily become a nationwide problem, with people travelling the length and breadth of the country with their birds to attend these shows. For commercial producers, the economic implications of bird flu are huge, and six weeks-worth of performance and careful management can be lost in a day. Likewise, for smaller, specialist, producers that are working to protect the rarer breeds of poultry, bird flu can be just as disastrous and could lead to the loss of a lifetimes work. Further confirmed outbreaks of the virus in Wales should encourage producers to remain vigilant and continue to house their poultry. During the uncertainty of this period, producers should be reminded of the importance of biosecurity measures to reduce the risk of contamination.
Bird Flu can be just as disastrous and could lead to the loss of a lifetimes work
EMILY HICKMAN @LIFEANDTHECOWS
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ARTWORK BY @SUSSEXGPOULTRY
HAVE YOUR SAY - TWEET US @FARMLANDUK
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JUST FOR FUN
How to spot Avian Influenza.
T Source: Defra
here are 2 types of avian influenza.
Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) is the more serious type. It is often fatal in birds. The main clinical signs of HPAI in birds are: Swollen head, fewer eggs laid, increased mortality, loss of appetite, blue discolouration to neck and throat, diarrhoea, gaping beak, coughing, sneezing, gurgling, and rattling. Clinical signs can vary between species of bird and some species may show minimal clinical signs (ducks and geese).
READER VIEWS
F
irstly, ban
I is
think the justified.
I know it is something that all “free-rangers” did not like to see happen but to be realistic, any movement to reduce the chance of this problem reaching our flocks, must be a good thing. Unfortunately there are several downsides to keeping free-range and organic birds in confinement. Speaking for Springfield Poultry ( a Company that I and my wife started over fifty years ago ) this is unpresented. Even in the seventies with the outbreak of fowl-pest, this was not mandatory. The Fowl-pest virus was so virulent that in our case we saw the first signs of a problem on a Tuesday morning and by the end of the week we had lost all our stock. This was about 5,000 turkeys and about 15,000 chickens. There was no Government compensation and it almost wiped us out. There will be no compensation for this present continental bird flu, so you can see the importance of trying to keep our shores clean from the migration of wild birds coming from across the Channel.
From just before Christmas we as Organic and Free-range producers have had to keep all our poultry enclosed, and away as much as possible from wild birds. Fortunately most of our Christmas turkey stock was already processed, so we only had to contend with chickens. This was made a little easier as we were able to re-stock the turkey housing with our following batches of chickens. We as farmers were able to cope with the increased work, but the chickens were not anywhere near as happy. When they could come out in the mornings and stretch their wings and go for a run over some nice fresh grass. They seem to be OK but I know they will be much happier when they are allowed out. It is the same scenario as you being asked to live, eat and sleep in your bedroom. You could do it OK but you would be pleased when you could come out and live normally. ROD MEE. SPRINGFIELD POULTRY, HEREFORDSHIRE
KEEPERS OF POULTRY AND CAPTIVE BIRDS MUST “HOUSE” THEM AWAY FROM WILD BIRDS. THEY MUST MAINTAIN THEIR BIOSECURITY, FOLLOWING OUR ADVICE, AND KEEP A CLOSE WATCH ON THE HEALTH OF THEIR BIRDS.
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Anyone who keeps poultry must keep a close watch on them for any signs of disease, and must seek prompt advice from their vet if they have any concerns. If you find dead wild waterfowl (swans, geese or ducks) or other dead wild birds, such as gulls or birds of prey, you should report them to the Defra helpline (03459 33 55 77). LATEST CASES The UK’s Chief Veterinary Officer has confirmed H5N8 avian flu in a flock of turkeys at a farm in East Lindsey, Lincolnshire. This is the same strain which was found in backyard flocks in Carmarthenshire, Wales and in Settle, North Yorkshire, earlier this month.
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@FUTUREFARMER365
Future Farmer
FOLLOW MY NEW BLOG Go to futurefarmer365. com
Join the 17 year old Wirral teenager, Student Farmer and Sainsburys Apprentice, Ethan Kinney as he works his way through an Agricultural qualification at Reaseheath College and following his dreams of managing a flock of his own. Before the New Year I was working on sheep and general stocks for the entire week.
Firstly I want to say I hope you all had a very lovely Christmas and Happy New Year. Getting back into routine after the Christmas break has been manic. Juggling all my college work and assignments on one hand, then doing weekly stock with the sheep and general team on the other. Plus “my weeks tweets of cows” the dairy team which work 7 days means I have been practically living in college.
Alongside my favourite Sheep duties (herding was another thing we are learning about) i have been driving some big machines, I’m not really a tractor person and I try to use them as little as possible but when I was tasked with fixing them something i’m really not used to, something must have clicked
because my hard work paid off and i achieved a Distinction in it. I am currently working on a campaign to get myself into some primary Schools to educate others from a non farmingbackgroundaboutthebrilliant industry that is British Agriculture. More on this in my next blog! Thank
you
for
reading.
@ f u t u r e f a r m e r 3 6 5
New Year New Start WWW.FARMERSWIFEANDMUMMY.COM As my latest (and probably last) pregnancy comes towards the end, I feel like I need to make plans for the spring and summeryou know, because I won’t be busy enough. I am already looking around for hatching eggs. As FarmLand Magazine went to press, the poultry world is still on lockdown with the avian influenza guidelines and a ban ofn bird movements but, thankfully, hatching eggs don’t come into it.
@Emmalander2 farmerswifeandmummy
New Year new start? How many times have you heard that cliche so far? The only thing with me is, I have plans. Like a new exercise book on the first day of term or a kid in a candy shop, I can’t stop looking at livestock.
I didn’t have a brilliant percentage success rate last year. I had a new incubator and was itching to get the eggs in. I have learnt from my mistakes and fully understand the merits of having the incubator up and running for a few days prior to the eggs going in. It’s not just eggs I am looking at though. Pigs, donkeys, alpacas, sheep-you name it, I’ve thought about it. We have pedigree Suffolk and Texel rams on the farm so I think it would be wise, should I opt for sheep breeding, to go for Suffolk or Texel ewes.
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Hubster is anxious I wait until after the baby is born to decide. I suppose rightly so but, I can’t help but look and the problem with me looking is that sometimes, I respond to the adverts and we all know what that means. I can usually get away with small animals in the boot of my car. There have been many incidentsmost notably two runner ducks who escaped from the box I had put them in and went quackers in the back while my then baby daughter slept oblivious in her car seat. With larger animals like sheep, I would have to notify the Hubster to hook his trailer up on my car. It seems being heavily pregnant has more problems than just a lack of gin. I may submit to his pleas (which hardly ever happens) and wait until the baby is here but who doesn’t like to window shop? Emma x
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BEN EAGLE
Searching for Common Ground in Oxford In early January I attended the Oxford Real Farming Conference, along with 799 other delegates. Traditionally, this conference, which is held over two days, has been the domain of those interested in small scale and family farming, whereas the Oxford Farming Conference, which is held at the exactly the same time just down the road, is seen as the conference of ‘the establishment’ (with some justification, having been held in the city since 1936) with larger farm businesses in attendance. It could be said that each conference represents a fundamentally opposed world view when it comes to the question of which direction agriculture should move: ‘sustainable intensification’ at Oxford Farming against ‘ecological farming’ at the Oxford Real. Many continue to see a need for both conferences. The argument goes that the voices of smaller scale producers would be drowned out if the conferences merged. Rivalry is not the point.
About Ben Eagle is a writer and commentator on environmental and agricultural issues and blogs regularly at www.thinkingcountry. com .
However, running two conferences simultaneously means that farmers who use fundamentally different approaches cannot debate openly together, unless delegates attend a day at each conference; perhaps unlikely for many. There are signs of increasing common ground between
He produces and presents the Meet the Farmers podcast, available on his blog. You can follow him on twitter at @benjy_ eagle.
the conferences, for example when it comes to discussions over using cover crops to improve soil health. However, we discuss these common issues apart from each other. Signs for optimism however came from a fringe session that I attended, organised by Abby Rose from the Farmerama Podcast and Megan Perry from the Sustainable Food Trust. This session brought young farmers from both conferences together to discuss common ground and common issues. Abby’s vision is that in twenty years’ time there will be no need for two conferences but a single event embracing all issues and approaches and encouraging debate. However, there is a long way to go before her vision becomes reality. On several occasions I heard delegates at the Oxford Real refer to the other conference as ‘that niche conference down the road’. Language of division such as this perpetuates feelings of animosity between each ‘side’ (even mentioning ‘sides’ doesn’t help). My argument is that all approaches should be debated alongside each other, so that farmers can generate a system that works for them. We need to debate together, rather than continuing to turn our backs on each other. I don’t expect this to happen for several years but I hope to see it eventually.
Many continue to see a need for both conferences
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UPS AND DOWNS
quickly find yourself testing your own physical as well as emotional and spiritual boundaries. Working with nature with all its beauty and perfection makes you wonder about your role in the overall farm organism. Instead of blindly focusing on a single task in front of you, you start to discover the connections between the things around you while exploring your own relationship with the life and work. Similar to a mosaic, all your singular impressions slowly start forming a greater picture.
My training at the Biodynamic Agricultural College
Some things unfold their true potential only slowly. Like a seed hibernating in the soil waiting for the right moment to grow into a beautiful plant. I think this is also true for the organic/biodynamic farming and gardening training scheme. Since 2014 I am holding an internationally-approved certificate stating I am trained in organic/ biodynamic agriculture at level 3. Although this document proves that I have officially finished the apprenticeship stile training, and you might think this is all what counts, it is really just secondary. What is most important is the over two years’ worth of experience and understanding hidden behind this piece of paper. First of all, and most obviously, you are improving your practical skills. Working outside exposed to the elements all year long makes you more sensitive to your environment with its ever-changing weather and working conditions. This awareness of nature is sadly getting lost more and more in our modern, highly-technological time. So often we forget to take a break from our hectic everyday-life to use all our senses to observe what is going on around you. While working the land you will very
Living and sharing life in the special environment of a Camphill Community during my training offered the possibility to fully merge with a community life style. It is a very challenging but also very rewarding way of living. Working and living together with so many different people with all their different personalities, attitudes and needs makes you more aware of your own personal needs. You have the chance to get to know yourself better through your interactions with other people. This is not always easy but it helps you to develop your own character and find your own space in society. My first year was very practicallyorientated and focused on getting to know the basics of gardening. I learned the important lessons of learning-bydoing, trial-and-error, hard work and patience which are essential for any gardener. This knowledge was then expanded and developed further by getting to know the more challenging aspects of biodynamics in the second year. In contrast to practical skills which are easily acquired and demonstrated, biodynamic knowledge can be very difficult to grasp and understand. Coming from a prestigious German school I was educated to solely trust in the solid facts of natural objective sciences leaving no room for subjective
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experiences trusting my own senses and experiences. Getting to know Biodynamics was therefore opening up a completely new world to me. It wasn’t always easy to study biodynamic agriculture and horticulture as some of his concepts are very abstract and occasionally contradict common knowledge completely. It’s like seeing the world you know upsidedown. In these cases, it takes discipline and open-mindedness to refrain from condemning these ideas as nonsense but to take them in and allowing them to keep working in your head. It is remarkable how knowledge can remain dormant in your mind. Only now, nearly two years after the end of my qualification, do I appreciate how much I have learned during my training. Of course, there were ups and downs, easier and tougher times but that’s how life is and there is nothing more satisfying than overcoming the obstacles in your way. Looking back, it has enriched my life in so many ways that I am very grateful that I did the biodynamic training. Maya Bleckmann
.
Biodynamic Agricultural College
SUSTAINABLE FARMING AND GARDENING WORK BASED & DISTANCE LEARNING
www.bdacollege.org.uk MULCHING WITH PINE NEEDLES The fairy lights are twinkling, there’s holly and mistletoe from the garden hanging on the front door, delicious smells are wafting from the kitchen and there in the midst of it all is the Christmas tree resplendent in gold and red, the jewel in the Christmas crown. I love Christmas, I love the glitz and glitter, the gift giving and the cosy nights spent in front of the fire but barely is 12th night upon us before my thoughts have turned to the garden, the allotment and the growing year ahead! See more practical smallholding advice at digging-in-heels.blogspot. co.uk
Not only is the Christmas tree a beautiful centrepiece to the Christmas celebration but it’s also great for the garden. Every year without fail I collect the pine needles from my tree and remind friends and family to do the same all in the name of a boost for my Blueberries! Blueberries thrive in acidic soil (PH 4.5-5.5) and whether you choose to grow your fruit bushes directly in the ground or in containers pine needles can enrich your growing medium. I grow my Blueberries in pots full of a mix of Ericaceous compost and leaf mould mainly because the soil in the veg garden isn’t acidic enough to meet their needs and also because it allows me to move them around the garden to maximise the time spent in sunlight. I mulch the plants in spring using pine needles collected from my Christmas tree, thus adding a much needed boost to the soil and also repressing any weeds that might fancy trying their luck! Here’s what I do; once the tree has been stripped of its finery I sweep up any pine needles that have fallen on the floor and give the tree an extra
shake for good measure! I then collect the needles in a bag and continue to do so until the tree is bare. Once the tree is outside I stand it in a place where I can continue to collect its fallen needles over the weeks and months to come. The longer that you keep the pine needles the less acidic they will be and there are some studies that suggest that mulching with pine needles makes only a negligible difference to the soil so I add the needles as they fall and whilst they are at their greenest and most acidic. I’m of the opinion that adding the needles as a mulch to the Blueberries has made a difference the soil and to the plants productivity and believe that with regular feeding their inclusion can only be a good thing but even if the jury is out on the benefits of adding pine needles to your Blueberries anything that suppresses the dreaded weeds and contributes to the recycling of my Christmas tree has got to be a good thing!
Article by Rachel @Digginginheels
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OUR FAVOURITE SNAPS
‘Sunset over Loch Leven’ by Jonathan Sloanemni
PRE LAMBING PREPARATIONS James Bayliss @Solwayshepherd It barely seems possible that lambing time is nearly upon us once more. It seems only yesterday that we were lambing our very first ewes, but that was nearly two whole years ago! Lambing preparations are having to be done about a month in advance this year, as I’m heading off the farm in January for an early lambing job in Cornwall. The ewes will be scanned, given their final dose of flukicide and a clostridial booster before I leave, so that they should be as fit and healthy as possible in the run up to lambing. January will be a critical month, so it’s not the best time for me to be away from the farm, but financially I simply can’t afford not to go away and earn the extra cash I need to pay the bills and keep the bank balance looking at least a little bit healthy. Luckily, my girlfriend Iona will be at home to keep an eye on things for the three weeks or so that I’m away. Iona is always heavily involved with the sheep, especially at lambing time, so the girls are in capable hands.
‘ Tis a bit cold today ’ by Caroline Fennellmni
Once the New Year begins, it’ll be time to begin to give the ewes some supplementary feed. Ewes need more protein to keep them fit, increase milk production and support the growth of their lambs in the last 6 or 7 weeks pre lambing, so we give them a high protein blend from our local agricultural merchants to make sure they’re getting everything they need. I’ll be back for the final 2 or 3 weeks ahead of lambing, which will be occupied with final checks, as well as disinfecting and preparing the lambing shed. The commercial flock and my purebred Lleyns are lambed inside as the weather can be a bit wet and wild on the Solway coast in February. I’ll end my first piece by saying thanks to David and the Farmland team for asking me to contribute to this fantastic magazine, and to wish all those lambing this New Year the very best of luck.
ABOUT I’M A CONTRACT SHEPHERD WITH MY OWN FLOCK OF LLEYNS, WHEN I’M NOT CHASING MY SHEEP DOWN THE SOLWAY FIRTH, I’M PENNING MY NEXT BLOG POST FOR SOLWAYSHEPHERD.
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‘Lonely Tractor ’ by Sarah J Drummondomni
BOOK CLUB SOME MUST READ TITLES FARMHOUSE FAVOURITES, Sarah Armstrong. Country style cookbook comprised by four Transition Year students at Carrigallen Vocational School. €10.00 / £8.50 @farmingmadire
A YEAR IN THE LIFE OF A YORKSHIRE SHEPHERDESS Amanda Owen. The best Selling author describes the age-old cycles of a farming year. Available from Amazon
Machinery News CLAAS TO BUILD MULTI MILLION POUND SUFFOLK HQ The CLAAS Group has given approval for the construction of a new, state-of-the-art headquarters building for CLAAS UK and their dealer, MANNS of Saxham, on Saxham Business Park near Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk. The new state-of-the-art building will use solar passive design techniques, renewable energy and rain water harvesting to support the daily operations.
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SEND YOUR VACANCY TO MAIL@FARMLANDPRESS.COM DON'T CUT CORNERS ON SAFETY Many serious and fatal accidents have occurred on farms where operators have tried to clear blockages or tried to correct faults or worked on machines and vehicles with the engine running or power engaged. On a busy time and cost conscious farm, it is all too easy to cut corners when you are alone out in the field and a breakdown or blockage occurs just as the weather is closing in or the daylight is fading fast. So always make sure you follow a Safe Stop procedure. We know that agricultural machines may have several power sources – (mechanical, hydraulic and PTO-driven parts and electrical controls for some systems). All power sources must be isolated when physically interacting with potentially moving parts. Usually, stopping the tractor and removing the key does this – but this may not be the case with fixed machinery where it may be necessary to isolate the power supply. By the very nature of farming you could find yourself out in the middle of a large farm and seriously injured which makes it harder for emergency vehicles and staff to reach you or for anyone to know you are in need of help for quite a while.
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EXCELLENT BEGINNERS GIFTS Preserve Making Kit – Marmalade, Jam, Mustard or Chutney. Contains jars, lids, labels, funnel, recipe and some dry ingredients. £12.95 Quality stainless steel jam pan. £24.99 www.lovejars.co.uk
Whyles Safety Services 30 minute FREE site visit (East Midlands area) www.whyles-safety.co.uk / 0115 906 3355
Stephen Whyles
New Vacancies CEREAL & OSR PRODUCT MANAGER WE ARE LOOKING TO FILL AN EXCITING NEW TECHNICAL ROLE WITHIN OUR CEREALS AND OSR DIVISION. You will be responsible for the support and development of sales plus the marketing of RAGT Cereals and OSR varieties. The ideal candidate will have a firm knowledge of Cereal & OSR agronomy and the seed industry, plus display a good level of commercial awareness. We would also expect the successful applicant to be an excellent communicator who is well versed in delivering presentations. To fulfil this role you are ideally educated to an agricultural degree level or equivalent, or have 5 years industry experience and able to demonstrate you can work as part of a team. THE ROLE ENCOMPASSES: • Establishing new and developing existing customer relationships • Maximise the earning potential plus increase and support sales across the RAGT Cereal & OSR portfolio
AT THE ROOT OF THE BEST JOB VACANCIES.
• Working with Cereals & OSR Technical Manager and Managing Director to provide product placement, define market segmentation and deliver internal and external data for editorial and press purposes • Represent RAGT Cereal & OSR at key agricultural events, plus internal and external open days
A strong sense of integrity is at the heart of RAGT, with staff adopting a personable approach, being easy to engage with.
• Key media contact coordinating RAGT Cereal & OSR editorial presence
Our cutting edge, company wide experience provides us with a unique way of developing and breeding the seeds we grow, the varieties we sell and the advice we provide.
• Work in conjunction with Managing Director for all aspects of Cereals and OSR reporting and budgeting. Ready to make an exciting career move and discover how you can grow to expect the best?
It is for these reasons that RAGT is Europe’s number one cereal seed provider, supplying seed across the world. A respected brand that the agricultural market and its related industries can have total confidence in.
Please send your CV to: Natasha Matthews. Email: nmatthews@ragt.fr Closing date: 31st Jan 2017. Interviews: 7th & 10th Feb 2017. We look forward to hearing from you.
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Working Estate Manager – Hertfordshire
Machinery News JOHN DEERE G SERIES
Based in East Hertfordshire, Chaldean Estate comprises 2,500 acres of arable, woodland and associated farm and residential properties. The Estate is seeking a competent and ambitious working Estate Manager. Applicants would be likely to be educated to degree level in rural/ woodland management and must possess the following key skills/qualities: -Ability to manage woodlands -Ability to set up and run estate-related business enterprises, maximising the estate assets, including a wood fuel business
John Deere’s latest 5G Series specialist tractor line-up includes four model ranges featuring 3.4-litre Stage IIIB engines with rated power outputs of 75 to 105hp (97/68/EC). This newly updated series has been specifically designed to provide high levels of comfort, power, hydraulic performance and manoeuvrability to customers who operate in orchards and vineyards, or for other applications which require a narrow tread width.
-Practical skills to operate Estate Machinery -Property maintenance -Initiative and ambition to succeed To apply for this responsible and rewarding position please send your covering letter and CV to: Gordon Morrison, The Old Grain Store, Bromley Lane, Much Hadham, Hertfordshire SG10 6HU Alternatively email: APeacock@chaldean.co.uk Closing date for applications: Friday 27th January 2017
Farm Business Consultancy and Agronomy The Strutt & Parker Farming Department is continuing to grow and we are looking to recruit additional members to the team. Our focus remains on providing the best independent advice to our clients on all aspects of farm management, business consultancy and agronomy. UK agriculture is going through some challenging times and we are looking for individuals who will be proactive, innovative, have a relentless pursuit of detail and enjoy engaging with progressive farmers and clients.
Offering Quality and Choice ATVs, Garden Tractors, Lawnmowers, Chainsaws, Brushcutters, Hedgecutters & Rotavators.
There are opportunities for a wide range of positions with various levels of skill and experience. The positions we are currently recruiting for include: Cambridge – Graduate or recently qualified Perth – Agronomist/Consultant with at least 2 years of experience in the industry Newbury – Farm business consultant If you want a challenging career, full of opportunity, in an environment which, whilst fun, is focussed, determined and highly energised then we would like to hear from you. Please apply to richard.means@struttandparker.com or call on 07802 846835 if you would like a confidential discussion. struttandparker.com
Scots Gap, Morpeth NE61 4DT Tel: 01670 774603 & 774676 @robsonandcowan_
60 offices nationwide
Opening hours are Monday to Friday 8.30am - 5.30pm, Saturday 8.30am to 5pm
are pleased to invite you to the
Vicon Crop Care Day On: Tuesday 14th February 2017, 10am to 4pm At: The Big Green Shed next to Park Farm, Sexhow, Yarm TS15 0EE By kind permission of Messers C Bainbridge & Sons
are pleased to invite you to the
Vicon Crop Care Day On: Tuesday 14th February 2017, 10am to 4pm At: The Big Green Shed next to Park Farm, Sexhow, Yarm TS15 0EE The following machines will be available to test on the day: Vicon RO-EDW GEOspread Spreader
RotaFlow spreading system
Fully automatic weighing system with unique reference sensor
Unique GEOspread system with two electric actuators
Working width can be easily adjusted quickly and accurately just by touching the ISOBUS terminal.
Vicon iXdrive Self-propelled Sprayer
HSS steel or HSA aluminium side folding spray booms
Easy operation, including EasySet control panel
iXflow, iXclean Pro: every litre counts!
Excellent driving comfort
IsoMatch GEOcontrol Vicon mounted and trailed sprayers will also be available to view
We look forward to seeing you at the Vicon Crop Care Day on Tuesday 14th February 2017. Refreshments will be provided throughout the day.
Please RSVP to agriplusltd@hotmail.com www.agriplusltd.com Tel: 01642 712965
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HOPES AUCTION CO Hopes have been serving the agricultural community since 1897. Regular sales of Primestock are held every Tuesday when Sheep and Cattle are offered for sale. Syke Road, Wigton E: auctioneers@hopesauction.co.uk T: 016973 42202
LAKELAND LIVESTOCK CENTRE, COCKERMOUTH, CUMBRIA, CA13 0QQ Tel: 01900 822016 www.mitchellslivestock.co.uk
PENRITH FARMERS MART In the heart of Cumbria. Penrith Mart is well established amongst the agricultural community. UPCOMING SALES 25th January (Wednesday) Sale of Cast Ewes & Rams. 9am Sale of Prime Hoggs 13th February (Monday) Sale of Prime Bulls, Clean Cattle and Cast Cows - Green Market 24th February (Friday) Collective Sale of Tractors, Plant, Implements, Livestock Equipment & Small Tools - Sale Includes The Farm Dispersal of Tractors, Implements & Livestock Equipment AGRICULTURAL HALL, SKIRSGILL, PENRITH CA11 0DN
6th January 2017 – Prize Show & Store Sale Champion W & HI Watson, Sanders Close Sale Averages – Steers £959.38/Heifers £942.40/Bulls £883.21 FORTHCOMING SALES JANUARY Friday 27th Store, breeding & feeding cattle, stirks & calves also store hoggs. Special sale of in lamb ewes. FEBRUARY Friday 10th Store, breeding & feeding cattle, stirks & calves, also breeding & store sheep. Friday 24th Special show & sale of pedigree & pure bred bulls & females. Store & feeding cattle, stirks & calves also breeding & store sheep. MARCH Friday 10th Special March show & sale of 1,000 store cattle. Competing for the Mr & Mrs T Baxter Shield. NO OTHER STOCK THIS DAY. For further details on any of our sales or to request a catalogue contact the office on 01900 822016 or the auctioneer John Wharton 07912 946549
@PENRITHDISTRICTFARMERSMART
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Lincoln Way, Clitheroe, Lancs BB7 1QD www.auctionmart.co.uk
2017 Plant, Diggers, Tractors, Farm Machinery & Equipment Sales Saturday 28th January* Saturday 25th February th Saturday 29th April Saturday 25 March* Saturday 24th June Saturday 27th May* Saturday 26th August Saturday 29th July* Saturday 23rd September* Saturday 21st October Saturday 25th November* No Sale in December Sale commences 9am in the Bottom Shed with tools etc, followed by Machinery & Plant outside at approx 10.45am. *also this day Rural & Domestic Bygones, 10am
A fast, friendly & efficient service PLUS.... Low commission rates • Un-loading ramp Loadall facility • New look website Catalogue listings • Large compound/storage facility Extensive pre sale text alerts to over 5000 customers Collection service by arrangement
01886 884030 info@velocomms.com www.velocomms.com
Vintage Tractors & Associated Parts Saturdays 13th May & 16th September Sale commences at 9.30am in the shed with Parts, followed by Associated Machinery & Tractors Find us on
Facebook T: 01200 423325 • Joe: 07970 221354 • Jeremy: 07815 727993
See upcoming sales at farmlandmagazine.com MELTON LIVESTOCK Melton Mowbray Market is one of the longest established markets in the country serving over 2,500 people every year. Holding weekly sales every Tuesday dating as far back as 1324. All classes are sold in Tuesdays main market such as cattle, sheep, pigs, fur and feathers. Scalford Road, Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire, LE13 1JY @MELTON LIVESTOCK
SPRING SALE OF WORKING SHEEPDOGS SATURDAY 11th MARCH 2017 at 10am AT HAMMERLANDS, MOFFAT, DG10 9QL
Early Entries are NOW being sought Fee - £40 plus VAT per dog Closing Date for Catalogue Friday 24th February 2017. Please contact our office or website for information and entry forms C & D Auction Marts Ltd, Dumfries Mart, Huntingdon Road, Dumfries, DG1 1NF Tel. 01387 279495 Fax. 01387-251456 Email – dumfries@cdauctionmarts.co.uk Website - www.dumfriesmart.co.uk
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SEE MORE AT MARTFINDER.CO.UK
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Clitheroe Auction Mart
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PRACTICAL STORAGE
SOLUTIONS Andrew Taylor
With machinery costs rising all the time, it’s only sensible that any purchases are kept well maintained and sheltered from the worst of the British weather. Any breakdown caused by lack of maintenance and neglect will add directly or indirectly to your costs and subsequently reduce profits.
This isn’t just about a brand new toy losing its shine, the hard fact is that deterioration will set in earlier when costly assets are left outside and inevitably the value of your investment will plummet, with unreliability becoming an ever increasing problem.
The obvious answer is a carport, whether free standing or lean to attached to an existing building. Constructed from high quality timber or a similar hardwearing material, this will be a permanent way to safeguard your investment.
Covering a tractor or similar expensive acquisition with something temporary such as tarpaulin is time consuming and a lot of effort especially in poor weather conditions, so the obvious answer is a permanent structure.
Stable and sturdy, designs range from the functional to contemporary in outlook. While the former needn’t be unattractive with poor build quality, the latter’s design should not disregard essential practicalities.
You may already have a garage or barn that is suitable for the task but then there may be no room for family vehicles and leaving a significant other’s pride and joy out in the rain could disrupt your domestic harmony.
Such a structure also provides enough space to maintain your equipment, not only providing shelter but the opportunity to effect simple as well as more complicated repairs that would be impossible in the open air.
Another solution may involve a ‘do it yourself’ construction project that normally involves breeze blocks that looks ugly, may provide only partial protection and will be at best a temporary fix for an ongoing issue.
And don’t forget that when not in use a carport presents you with a large covered area that can be used for many other activities. It then becomes a multifunctional space that can be enjoyed by all the family.
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